The Quantum Spin

Hosted by HKA Marketing Communications

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Jul 2026

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The first podcast focused on PR and marketing communications for the quantum tech industry, by HKA Marcom, specializing in PR for startup, scaling and global quantum tech companies.

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47 recent

August 25, 202628 min

Episode 46: A VC’s POV: Investing in Quantum

Venture investor Russ Fein moved to Colorado for family reasons – landing in the heart of one of America’s biggest quantum ecosystems was an unexpected bonus. This new homebase was the perfect place to pursue his pandemic research project: quantum tech. Russ tracks advances in quantum hardware and software on his Substack newsletter, The Quantum Leap , and guides investment decisions at Corporate Fuel . Russ is also CFO and a board member at Colorado-based Vescent . He spoke with The Quantum Spin about why he likes investing in the “picks and shovels” opportunities in the quantum sector. 00:00 Welcome to Quantum Spin 00:34 Meet Russ Fein 01:08 How Russ Found Quantum 02:46 Inside The Quantum Leap 03:39 How Investors Evaluate Quantum 05:53 Why Vescent Won Him Over 08:58 Vescent Tech Lasers to Clocks 11:16 Investor Misconceptions 13:31 Colorado Quantum Hub 16:55 Policy Funding and Supply Chain 19:14 Benchmarking Quantum Computers 23:10 Pitching Quantum to Investors 26:08 Error Correction to Watch 27:34 Closing and Where to Listen Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website https://hkamarcom.com/

July 28, 202622 min

Passion is Key for Communicating Quantum

With the growing momentum and investment in the quantum sector, now is the time to tell a clear and compelling story about this powerful technology. That's the advice from HKA Marketing Communications leaders Cierra Lunde, Director, Strategic Content, and Mike Kilroy, Executive Vice President, who explain why the key to success is passion for quantum. In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA, Cierra describes her path to quantum tech and the strategies she uses to make quantum computing understandable for everyone. While Cierra has become a world-class communicator in a relatively short period of time, Mike weighs in based on his three decades in tech PR, including the last 7 years of quantum at HKA. 00:00 Welcome to Quantum Spin 00:34 Meet the New Director 01:25 Why Now for Quantum 03:15 Cierra’s Quantum Journey 05:16 Stories the Public Needs 07:08 Humanizing the Science 09:15 Multi Platform Strategy 12:13 GEO and Website Basics 14:48 How HKA Helps Now 16:11 Trends to Watch 18:52 Advice for Quantum Companies 21:49 Wrap Up and Where to Listen Mike Kilroy is the Executive Vice President of HKA Marketing Communications and a veteran PR executive with decades of experience in leading award-winning communications programs for top-tier, mid-sized and emerging technology companies. Mike was instrumental in the agency transitioning to representing the quantum industry back in 2019. He leads the team and oversees the strategic direction and tactical execution for all clients. Cierra Lunde is the Director of Strategic Content at HKA Marketing Communications, a deep tech journalist, a data analyst and a passionate advocate for deep tech. She created The Daily Qubit newsletter and founded Universum Labs, a platform that uses emerging technologies to drive scientific discovery and innovation with open-access tools. Cierra is a founding member of the Quantum and AI Learning and Innovation Alliance. She has carved her own path in science and technology and believes that access to science and discovery is a fundamental right. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website https://hkamarcom.com/

July 8, 202628 min

Episode 44: Why Startup Storytelling is a Good Investment

How do you make your quantum startup stand out in an industry where every company name starts with the letter Q? One powerful way to do that is to tell the stories of the people building the technology. Christopher Godfree , Commercial Director at Across the Pond , has worked with Ai executives, robotics experts and Google’s Quantum Team to explain how their work will change the world. In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA, Christopher and host Veronica Combs discuss how storytelling can derisk deep tech investments and why it’s important to do more than just explain how something works to attract new employees and investment. 00:00 Welcome to Quantum Spin 00:46 Meet Christopher Godfree 01:59 Making Complex Human 03:55 Finding Quantum Use Cases 08:29 Storytelling Grows Business 11:30 Engineers as Story Fuel 13:21 Google Quantum Launch Playbook 16:12 Branding That Stands Out 20:15 Storytelling at Tech Speed 24:45 Culture and Quantum Narratives 26:50 What’s Next and Wrap Up Christopher Godfree is the Commercial Director of Across the Pond , the creative consultancy and studio in one. Based in London, but with teams in San Francisco and Singapore, he works with some of the world's fastest-growing tech businesses, helping them tell more effective stories about their science and technology. He has worked in communications for twenty years, including at a scale up tech business in Tokyo, ad agency JWT London, and the BBC. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website https://hkamarcom.com/

January 13, 2026Episode 4325 min

Episode 43: Explain Like I’m Five: Quantum from a Kid’s POV

Kids ask the best questions: simple, direct and sometimes painfully honest. Science communicator Katia Moskvitch , MPHIL , uses this approach in the podcast she hosts with her young son Kai. The co-hosts of “ The Quantum Kid ” channel Kai’s curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM into an educational show about quantum tech. Katia also shares her experiences working with IBM, the importance of effective science communication, and plans for her new company, Tesseract Quantum . Katia is also the director of communications at Quantum Machines . 00:00 Introduction to The Quantum Spin 00:34 Meet Katia Moskvitch: The Quantum Kid 00:51 Kai's Journey into STEM 06:02 The Quantum Kid Podcast: Format and Guests 08:06 Challenges in Quantum Communication 13:08 Educational Initiatives in Quantum 17:14 Katia's Experience with IBM and Quantum Communication 22:57 Advice for Quantum CEOs and Future Plans 24:32 Conclusion and Farewell Katia Moskvitch is a theoretical physicist, science communicator, founder and president of Tesseract Quantum and director of communications at Quantum Machines. She also co-hosts The Quantum Kid podcast with her son Kai. Katia worked in science journalism for 20+ years of experience turning complex technologies into compelling stories and strategies as a business editor at WIRED and at IBM Research. Today her work is all about explaining quantum technologies to a general audience, educating developers, CEOs, and the next generation about quantum, and helping to ensure the technology truly matters. She is passionate about quantum and focused on expanding access to quantum education — through university partnerships, public content, and corporate upskilling. She helps learners and leaders understand not just how quantum works, but why it matters. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website https://hkamarcom.com/

December 16, 2025Episode 4226 min

Episode 42: Telling Science Stories with Poetry, Comedy and Wonder

In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA, host Veronica Combs takes a deep dive into how to make difficult topics interesting and engaging with Rachel Rayner , Science Explainer. A communicator, writer, and performer, Rachel shares her unique journey of combining science with the arts, highlighting her one-woman comedy show, “A Flying Photon,” and her work on the EV Nautilus. They discuss the importance of improvisation, deep listening, and knowing one's audience to effective communication. Tune in to understand how blending wonder and curiosity with scientific stories can make complex subjects accessible to all. 00:00 Welcome to The Quantum Spin 00:34 Meet Rachel Rayner: The Science Explainer 00:55 Rachel's Journey and Career Highlights 01:46 The Art of Science Communication 03:43 Improvisation and Audience Engagement 06:27 Elevating Women's Voices in Science 11:27 The Intersection of Science and Poetry 14:50 The Importance of Place in Communication 22:39 Rachel's Work with Dr. Robert Ballard 24:56 Closing Thoughts and Podcast Information Rachel Rayner is a science communicator, producer and performer who has contributed to projects throughout Australia, Vietnam, the USA and South Africa. She performs her latest one-woman comedy show, “Atomically Correct” at festivals all over Australia and in New Zealand. She also hosts a podcast, “Australian Highlights” that tells stories of innovation in her home country. She toured Vietnam on a diplomatic mission to invigorate science education, broadcasted the frontline of ocean exploration from the bottom of the Pacific, supported the launch of one of the world's largest science experiments in the South African desert, and co-authored a paper on science poetry. She has had roles in strategic marketing, events, PR, communications and education across government organisations, charities and corporate enterprise. She has a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and a graduate diploma in science communication. Connect with Rachel: https://raynerexplainer.com/about Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ https://hkamarcom.com/

December 2, 2025Episode 4120 min

Episode 41: Entangling QPUs to Build a Quantum Data Center

In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA , host Veronica Combs interviews Carmen Palacios Berraquero , founder and CEO of Nu Quantum . They discuss the company’s entanglement fabric, a cutting-edge mechanism for connecting individual quantum processors into a larger, more powerful machine. Carmen also explains the importance of industry collaboration as supported by the new Quantum Datacenter Alliance. Nu Quantum is also developing a quantum networking test bed. Join this enlightening discussion for an insider's view on the next frontier of quantum computing. 00:00 Introduction to The Quantum Spin Podcast 00:35 Interview with Carmen Palacios Berraquero: Nu Quantum's Vision 00:53 Understanding the Entanglement Fabric 04:14 Qubit Modalities and Networking 06:19 Nu Quantum's Rack-Mounted Solutions 07:34 Building a Strong Company Culture 11:31 The Quantum Data Center Alliance 16:03 Government Support and Future Plans 17:55 Exciting Announcements and Test Bed Development 19:50 Conclusion and Farewell Dr. Carmen Palacios-Berraquero is the Founder and Chief Executive of Nu Quantum , the leading quantum entanglement company, which recently raised a £8.5M pre-Series A from leading VCs including Amadeus Capital, IQ Capital, and the National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF). She is an award-winning quantum physicist and inventor, author of several high-impact research papers and a book based on her doctoral research. Prior to founding Nu Quantum, Carmen earned her PhD in physics at the University of Cambridge and undergraduate degree at Imperial College London. She also serves on the Technical Advisory Board of the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre and is Cofounder and Director of UKQuantum, the UK’s quantum industry group. She has been the leader of several pro-equality and LGBTQIA+ visibility groups, and initiatives in STEM. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://hkamarcom

November 25, 202519 min

Episode 40: Navigating the Deep Tech Industrial Revolution

In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA , host Veronica Combs discusses the intersections of quantum technology and cybersecurity with Chuck Brooks , an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and the president of Brooks Consulting International. Chuck discusses how the evolution of technology, particularly AI and quantum computing, has dramatically transformed cybersecurity. The conversation also touches on the role of CISOs, the integration of new technologies, and the importance of ongoing education and adaptation in the face of rapidly changing technologies. 00:00 Introduction to Quantum Spin Podcast 00:34 Guest Introduction: Chuck Brooks 00:46 Chuck Brooks' Career Journey 02:09 Evolution of Cybersecurity 02:47 Challenges for CISOs 04:27 Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity 07:43 Future of Quantum and AI 10:51 Disruptive Technologies in Organizations 15:15 AI in Academia and Professional Use 17:06 Effective Communication on LinkedIn 18:23 Conclusion and Podcast Information Chuck Brooks serves as President of Brooks Consulting International with over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, marketing, business development, and government relations. He also is an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University in the Cyber Risk Management Program, where he teaches graduate courses on risk management, homeland security, and cybersecurity. As a thought leader, blogger, and event speaker, he has briefed the G20 on energy cybersecurity, He has been a leading voice in risk management keynoting dozens of global conferences and writing over 450 articles relating to technologies and cybersecurity. He is also the author of two books on cybersecurity. In his career, Chuck has received presidential appointments for executive service by two U.S. presidents and served as the first Director of Legislative Affairs at the DHS Science & Technology Directorate. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://hkamarcom

November 18, 202536 min

Episode 39: U.S. Commission: Be Quantum First by 2030

In this special episode, host Veronica Combs is joined by Leland Miller and Mike Kuiken , members of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. They discuss the Commission's 2025 report on U.S.-China relations and one of the Top 10 recommendations: Quantum First by 2030. Leland and Mike share what they learned from visiting quantum labs and the strategic importance of funding a robust quantum ecosystem. The commissioners share their analysis of supply chain security, the importance of funding basic scientific research and the crucial role of government and private sector collaboration. Don't miss this in-depth exploration into the future of quantum technology and its national security implications. Link to report, Live on 11/18: https://www.uscc.gov/annual-report/2025-annual-report-congress 00:00 Introduction to The Quantum Spin Podcast 00:34 Meet the Guests: Leland Miller and Mike Kuiken 01:35 Overview of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 02:55 Focus on Quantum Industry Recommendations 04:18 Quantum's National Security Implications 05:38 The Importance of Quantum Software and Ecosystem 09:22 Supply Chains and Quantum Technology 11:49 Biotech and Quantum: Converging Technologies 13:52 China's Quantum Strategy vs. U.S. Innovation 27:51 Workforce Development in Quantum Technology 32:13 Future Investments and Policy Recommendations 35:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Mike Kuiken serves as a Commissioner on the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission following nearly 23 years in the U.S. Senate. He is Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution. He is also a member of Anthropic’s National Security and Public Sector Advisory Council, and consults with CEOs, boards, and senior leaders across investment, AI, defense, technology, and multinational firms globally. Leland R. Miller serves as a Commissioner on the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission and is the co-founder and CEO of China Beige Book. A noted authority on China’s economy and financial system, he is a frequent commentator on media outlets such as CNBC, Bloomberg TV, CNN, and FOX Business. Before co-founding China Beige Book in 2010, Leland was a capital markets attorney based out of New York and Hong Kong and worked on the deal team at a major investment bank. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://hkamarcom

November 4, 202532 min

Episode 38: Using IBM Experience to Analyze Quantum Tech

Dr. Bob Sutor has seen the tech industry from multiple perspectives: IBM executive, industry analyst and now independent consultant. He tracks the quantum news from this informed point of view and advises companies on how to expand the industry. In this episode of The Quantum Spin by HKA , Bob and host Veronica Combs discuss quantum networking, the qubit competition and the vital role of communications and marketing. 00:00 Introduction to Quantum Spin Podcast 00:34 Meet Dr. Bob Sutor: A Quantum Industry Veteran 00:50 From IBM to Quantum Startups 01:06 The Journey into Quantum Computing 05:04 Writing 'Dancing with Qubits' 07:31 Challenges in the Quantum Industry 11:34 Quantum Modalities and Future Prospects 14:03 Supply Chain Issues in Quantum Hardware 16:14 The Importance of Quantum Networking 17:35 Quantum Sensing and Networking 18:27 The Role of Quantum Sensors in GPS Denial 19:56 Quantum Computers in Data Centers 21:56 The Future of Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity 24:57 Engaging the Quantum Community 29:25 Effective Communication Strategies for Quantum Companies 31:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Dr. Sutor is the CEO and Founder of Sutor Group Intelligence and Advisory. He helps clients and investors understand sophisticated technologies such as quantum computing and use them effectively to succeed in their organizations and industries. As an author and communicator, Bob helps clients bring their messages to current and potential customers in clear, powerful, and impactful ways. Bob is a member of the Board of Directors of Nu Quantum and an advisor to the Forma Prime venture capital firm. He is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Buffalo, New York, USA. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://hkamarcom

October 20, 2025Episode 3729 min

Episode 37: Building Quantum Community Across Africa

Farai Mazhandu, physicist, high school teacher, and dynamic social entrepreneur, first worked with quantum tech in 2019. To continue the energy and enthusiasm he experienced from a Qiskit coding class, he first led the Africa chapter of One Quantum and more recently founded the African Quantum Consortium (AQC). In this episode of The Quantum Spin, Farai and host Veronica Combs discuss the challenges and excitement of creating a continent’s quantum strategy for today and for the future, using Africa’s inherent strengths, and building a broad community. 00:00 Introduction to the Quantum Spin Podcast 00:34 Meet Farai Mazhandu: STEM Advocate and Educator 00:48 The Birth of the Africa Quantum Consortium 02:18 Building a Quantum Community in Africa 05:34 The Importance of Community and Happy Hours 08:43 Quantum Use Cases and Africa's Technological Future 15:34 Investing in Africa's Quantum Ecosystem 19:09 Addressing Western Misconceptions About Africa 23:28 The Role of Storytelling in Science Communication 28:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Farai Mazhandu is a quantum strategist shaping Africa’s tech trajectory. He founded the Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC) and drives STEM talent pipelines across Africa and the U.S. Holding dual master’s degrees from the Colorado School of Mines and University of Witwatersrand, Farai brings 15+ years in physics education, quantum research, and ecosystem leadership. He has led cross-continental initiatives advancing quantum innovation, policy, and public engagement. Originally from Zimbabwe, Farai is a published author, journal editor, and ecosystem architect committed to securing Africa’s quantum future. Host Veronica Combs is a quantum tech editor, writer and PR professional. She manages public relations for quantum computing clients at HKA Marketing Communications, the #1 agency in quantum tech PR. Veronica joined HKA from TechRepublic and has covered technology, healthcare and business strategy for more than 15 years. Connect with Veronica on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicacombs/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with HKA Marketing Communications on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hka-inc--public-relations/ or on our website at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://hkamarcom