Heartbeat: Tactical Insights for CIOs

Modernizing Salesforce with AI: Strategic Lessons from Velu Palani’s Enterprise Playbook

How McKesson’s Velu Palani Leads Saleforce Transformation with AI, Frameworks & Strategic Vision
In this episode of The Heartbeat Podcast, host Mike Sommer sits down with Velu Palani, Vice President and Salesforce IT Service Leader at McKesson, one of the largest healthcare companies in the world.
Velu shares hard-won insights from leading enterprise CRM transformations, implementing Salesforce at scale, and integrating AI-driven frameworks to deliver customer-centric outcomes. From lessons learned in the trenches to building scalable foundations for AI, this episode is packed with strategic advice for CIOs, IT directors, and digital transformation leaders.
We also explore Velu’s passion for mentoring, community learning, and the evolving role of technology leadership in the enterprise.
🎧 Whether you're rethinking your CRM stack or exploring AI in Salesforce, this is a must-watch for modern tech leaders.
🔹 Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Heartbeat Podcast
00:12 – Meet Velu Palani: A Leader in CRM Strategy
01:13 – The Journey of Writing a Book
02:10 – Velu's Path to IT Leadership
04:02 – The Importance of Frameworks in CRM
06:16 – Lessons from the Trenches
12:31 – Foundational Elements for AI in Salesforce
15:34 – Defining CRM Success
17:37 – Fostering Innovation and Best Practices
21:12 – Advice to the Younger Self
22:14 – Continuous Learning and Giving Back
23:20 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
✅ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes featuring today’s top technology leaders.
#CRMStrategy #SalesforceLeadership #DigitalTransformation #AIinCRM #TechLeadership #MidMarketCIO #VeluPalani #McKesson #HeartbeatPodcast

AI-Powered CIO: Secrets to Winning the Data War with John Ayers

In this episode of the Heartbeat Podcast, host Mike Sommer sits down with John Ayers, a seasoned expert in customer experience, AI-driven personalization, and digital business transformation. John takes us through his fascinating career—from the rise of desktop publishing and MP3s to mobile responsiveness and the AI boom—sharing hard-earned lessons from navigating massive tech shifts.
Together, they unpack:
How data powers personalization and why it’s the backbone of modern customer experience
The game-changing role of AI in boosting efficiency and redefining user engagement
The "data flywheel" effect and how to pick the right use cases for digital transformation
Why trust is non-negotiable in brand relationships—and how to protect it
AI’s impact on user behavior and the future of digital advertising
John also reflects on his journey, offering wisdom on staying curious, finding balance, and mentoring the next wave of leaders. Whether you’re a CIO, tech enthusiast, or business strategist, this conversation is packed with insights to help you thrive in today’s AI-driven world.
Subscribe for more episodes of Heartbeat and hit the bell to stay ahead of the curve!#AI #DigitalTransformation #CustomerExperience #Leadership #Podcast
00:00 Introduction to Heartbeat Podcast 00:22 Guest Introduction: John Ayers 01:03 John Ayers' Career Journey 05:34 The Role of Data in Advertising 08:49 AI and Real-Time Personalization 11:04 Lessons in Digital Transformation 21:32 The Future of AI in Customer Experience 30:15 Balancing Technology and Human Experience 38:33 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

The Human Side of Tech: Unpacking AI-Driven Transformation and Cultural Alignment with Glen Stoffel

In this episode of the Heartbeat podcast, hosted by Mike Sommer, Glen Stoffel, Chief Strategy Officer at Moon Nox and co-founder of Camp4, delves into AI-driven transformation and the irreplaceable human elements in tech leadership. The discussion centers on professional services in tech, generative AI's role in boosting productivity, and the necessity of cultural alignment and human interaction in the digital era. Glen shares his journey from early cloud consulting with Bluewolf to pioneering AI solutions at Moon Nox, emphasizing the balance between technological innovation and maintaining clarity of strategy and culture. The episode also covers the shift to remote work, the evolving needs for collaboration, and the skills crucial for future technology leaders.

Failing Forward & Building Resilient IT Teams with Tim Winders

🎧 In this episode of The Heartbeat Podcast, host Mike Sommer sits down with Tim Winders, Associate VP of IT and Deputy CIO at Purdue University. With over 30 years in higher ed IT, Tim shares lessons from leading major initiatives—like the IT centralization across Purdue campuses and unifying Purdue Northwest.
 
He dives into how tech can truly transform the student and faculty experience, why strong business processes beat flashy tools, and why shared governance is non-negotiable. From cybersecurity hurdles to hybrid work challenges and the power of in-person networking, this episode is packed with hard-earned insights.
 
Stick around for Tim’s advice on work-life balance—and hear what keeps him motivated after three decades in the field.
 
🎙️ A must-listen for IT leaders navigating digital transformation in complex organizations.
 
00:00 Introduction to Heartbeat Podcast00:15 Meet Tim Winders: A Journey in Higher Education IT00:59 Transformational Initiatives in Higher Ed01:25 Tim's Path to Deputy CIO03:09 The Impact of Technology on Education04:48 Digital Transformation and Business Processes07:52 Emerging Trends and Technology in Universities12:02 Collaboration and Networking in Higher Ed17:13 Balancing Security and Innovation20:59 Governance in Higher Education25:28 Remote and Hybrid Work Models33:10 Personal Insights and Advice38:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The CIO Playbook: Brian Glass on Failing Forward & Building Resilient IT Teams

Heartbeat host Mike Sommer,  sits down with Brian Glass, CIO at Transcend Company, to talk about what it really means to lead IT at scale—especially in high-stakes industries like healthcare.
Brian’s journey from early tech curiosity to leadership roles at GM, Volkswagen of America, and Ally Financial is packed with lessons for any CIO navigating disruption, transformation, and the relentless pace of change.
Here’s what we covered: ✅ Why servant leadership still wins
✅ Building adaptable, high-performing IT teams
✅ The real-world role of AI in enterprise environments
✅ Creating a culture that embraces "failing forward"
✅ Aligning IT with evolving business needs
Brian’s insights are both tactical and human—grounded in values, collaboration, and a passion for innovation.

CIO Strategy 2025: Innovation, AI at Scale & Future-Ready IT

As CIOs navigate 2025, the pressure to drive innovation, scale AI initiatives, and optimize IT strategy has never been greater. In this episode, we break down Gartner’s latest CIO report, exploring how to build a data-driven foundation, manage cybersecurity risks, control tech costs, and secure top talent for emerging technologies. With expert insights and actionable strategies, we’ll discuss how CIOs can align IT with business goals, collaborate across departments, and turn challenges into competitive advantages. Tune in for a deep dive into the key trends shaping the future of IT leadership.

From Corporate to Startup: Executing Innovation with Renee Gregor

Welcome to Heartbeat: Tactical Insights for CIOs. In this episode, we sit down with Renee Gregor, COO of Park Pro, to explore what it really takes to drive innovation beyond just technology—and why execution matters more than buzzwords.
With 15+ years of experience in client strategy, working with brands like Macy’s, BMW, Ralph Lauren, and Coca-Cola, Renee brings a unique perspective on translating big-company strategies into startup agility. She shares firsthand lessons on navigating the shift from corporate to startup environments, breaking rigid processes, and building a culture that thrives on execution.
We cover some must-know insights for CIOs and COOs in 2025, including:
🚀 Why digital transformation fails without cultural alignment
🔄 How AI and ‘systems thinking’ are reshaping execution strategies
📉 What CIOs can learn from Kodak’s infamous downfall
⚡ Why traditional consulting models are broken—and what works instead
📊 Practical ways to ‘fail forward’ and make meetings actually productive
Whether you're leading change at a Fortune 500 company or scaling a startup, this conversation is packed with real-world tactics you can apply today. Let’s dive in.

Market Insight: AI-Powered Strategy: How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping Business Decision-Making

Discover how AI is revolutionizing strategy development by enhancing analysis, uncovering insights faster, and mitigating biases. Learn how businesses can leverage AI as a researcher, thought partner, and simulator to drive smarter decision-making.