Data Center Revolution (Kirk Offel)

Kirk is joined by his team at Overwatch in a roundtable discussion on how they are working to redefine the industry culture.

Carrie Goetz, author of Jumpstart Your Career in Data Centers, and Kirk continue their discussion of spreading the word about the data center industry far and wide and how best to adapt to changes in the future.

Join Kirk and Joe, as they Detail Joe's journey from a farm in Michigan, to leading a data center company in Dallas. Transitioning from tech roles at Disney and Amazon to spearheading AWS's expansion into Asia and how it changed his decision-making approach. They also speak on optimizing data center locations for connectivity and efficiency and explore the data center industry's evolution. They emphasize the fusion of cloud computing and AI and the growing demand for skilled professionals in companies like Digital Bridge and Databank. They also discuss the societal impact of technology in education and healthcare, envisioning AI's role in revolutionizing service delivery through energy solutions like hydrogen and geothermal sources. Wrapping up they discuss its impact on industries like weather prediction and drug development, emphasizing the need for employee investment and growth-centric cultures. Thank you to our Title Sponsor MCIS - Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. provides interior architectural solutions for data, cloud, and mission critical centers across North America. We offer everything from polished, epoxy, and sealed concrete to raised flooring, hot/cold aisle containment, and high-density ceiling grid. We also install raised access flooring in office spaces and provide underfloor air distribution testing to commission spaces - https://mcis-inc.com For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

We catch up with Kirk and Jesse Sargent, President of Delivery at Overwatch, as Jesse is a few weeks in to his journey through The Human Reset, discussing what he has been experiencing both physically and emotionally in his quest for self-improvement.

David Liggitt, Founder and CEO of datacenterHawk, joins Kirk to discuss the development of his business and his philosophy for success.

Kirk is joined by Lindsey Bruner, Chief Operating Officer of CleanArc Data Centers, to discuss her childhood, pushing her limits at Mt. Kilimanjaro, and her journey from lawyer to a rising leader in the data center industry.

David McCall, VP of Innovation at QTS Data Centers, joins Kirk on the show and reflects on his nearly 30-year career in IT, discussing the industry's evolution to cloud computing, highlighting the importance of agility and service-oriented approaches, and the need for organizations to foster belonging and empowerment among employees. For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Former Marine and VP of Veteran Development at Overwatch, Scott MacIntire, joins us to speak on the importance of having community within the military and how building a veteran community within the industry is imperative to making their transition out a success. 

Part two picks up with Kirk sitting down with Jesse Sargent, President of Delivery at Overwatch, to continue the discussion about taking on The Human Reset, inspiration, goals, and what he is already learning about himself.

Kirk is joined by Josh Snowhorn, CEO and Founder of Quantum Loophole, to discuss the economic benefits of data center campuses, the complexities of power generation, including the role of nuclear energy, and the need for innovative solutions in the evolving energy landscape.

Kirk sits down with Tammy Yang, EVP of Delivery at Compass Datacenters, who discusses her journey from a small town in New York to the Navy, shaped by diverse experiences--including encounters with General Colin Powell. They discuss the military's role in developing leadership and resilience through challenges and deployments.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Samuel Huckaby, DBIA, Senior Vice President, Construction (North America) at Vantage Data Centers joins Kirk to talk about how to cultivate a successful career in the sector and more.

Kirk sits down with Jamie Smith, COO of RPower, to discuss Jamie's Coast Guard experience, explore distributed power solutions with natural gas engines, and lay out the importance of innovative solutions in data centers.
For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Cathal Quinn, Group Managing Director at Moy Materials, joins Kirk to share his insights on transitioning from business-to-consumer sales to business-to-business channel sales, emphasizing the importance of respect, trust, and loyalty in building strong client relationships.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk is joined by David Liggitt, Founder and CEO of datacenterHawk, to discuss playing football in his childhood, getting in the data center world right at the start of a new business surge, and finding his calling in the data center space.

Join Marlee, Shae, David, and Isaac as they share their journeys entering the data center industry, emphasizing adaptability and interpersonal skills. The conversation highlights the industry's evolving values, stressing the importance of openness, learning, and inclusivity as well as the critical need for younger talent to help drive innovation and growth. Speakers advocate for embracing challenges, continuous growth, and a supportive community that values diversity and personal development within the data center sector.

Recorded LIVE from DCAC 2024, Joseph Pinzon of Overwatch chats with Saurabh Ladha, CEO at DOXEL For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Laramie Dorris (aka Big Country) is a Data Center Design & Construction Cowboy, Mission Critical Nerd, Team Builder Fanatic, founder of “GyddiUP™” and Vice President of Design & Construction, Americas at Yondr Group. Justin Tinoco is a semi-retired stuntman, hardcore food critique turned seasoned Mission Critical Design & Construction expert with over 20 years’ experience as a union electrician having started at the very bottom and rose to Executive Vice President at Rosendin.

Kirk continues the conversation with Peter Gross, Managing Partner at PMG Associates, on the advancement of electrical technology. Is the future in hydrogen, nuclear, or other more-sustainable sources?

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Chris Crosby, CEO at Compass Datacenters, joins the DCAC Revolution podcast to dive deep with Kirk about his career, the industry, the past, the future and much more.

Recorded LIVE from DCAC 20234, Karli Waldon (COO at Overwatch) chats with Mark Gusakov (CCO, International Data Center Authority Advisory Board Governance Chairman, Nomad Futurist) and Freddy Padilla (Principal at Waterloo/MEP Engineering). For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

In part one of this two part episode, Kirk talks with Jesse Sargent, EVP of Construction at Overwatch, about his careers journey, military history, and their shared ongoing dedication to helping to provide purpose and promise to military veterans entering the job field.

Kirk sits down with Cinthia Kim, Program Manager at Google, top discuss her journey into the industry, her nonprofit, Patina Network, aimed at empowering Asian American women and minorities in tech through mentorship and support, and the importance of allyship and fostering inclusivity.

0:00 Introduction and Background

1:31 The Purpose of the Podcast

3:06 Meeting at DCAC

8:21 Growing Up in Queens

12:02 Traveling and Life Experiences

15:09 Expectations and Pressure

17:04 Choosing a Career Path

18:38 College Journey and Discoveries

24:43 Early Career and Claims Consulting

27:51 The Impact of AI on the Future

31:35 The Importance of Networking

34:59 The Evolution of the Data Center Industry

41:14 College vs. Real-World Experience

44:27 Transitioning to the Data Center World

46:46 Mentoring and Community Building

52:40 Honorary Membership

55:25 COVID and Community

56:23 Celebrating Heritage

58:55 Mentorship and Inspiration

1:06:02 The Purpose of Patina Network

1:13:32 Building a Strong Community

1:15:43 Scaling and Rich Experiences

1:24:55 The Impact of Technology

1:31:14 Entering the Industry

1:34:56 Allyship and Inclusion

1:39:31 Building a Supportive Network

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk continues the conversation with Rob Daly, President of Overwatch Construction, on the heightened stakes of reaching higher levels of decision-making.

Recorded LIVE from DCAC 2024, Kirk sits down with Tobias Quaranta, Sr. Solutions Architect at Submer!

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Peter Gross PE is recognized one of the greatest Data Center Industry Icons of all time having received multiple awards and has published numerous technical papers in the field, and is a frequent speaker at international events. Peter has almost three decades of mission critical experience under his belt but as CEO and CTO he positioned EYP Mission Critical Facilities as the preeminent data center design firm in the world.  Peter sits on many several Boards including UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, Member of the Data Center Engineering Program Advisory Board at SMU Lyle School of Engineering, Energy Harbors Corporation (EHC), The Barak Ballet, and many others while also Chairman of the Board of Directors for Virtual Power Systems.  Peter is also the Managing Partner of PMG Associates Consulting and Advisory.

Kirk is joined with Daniel Crosby, founder and CEO of Legend Energy Advisors, to unravel the complexities of power metrics, natural gas usage, and the evolution of energy consumption, shedding light on key industry insights. Diving into repurposing existing infrastructures for data centers and navigating market dynamics, they discuss scenarios during extreme weather events and the impact on gas and power systems.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Join Kirk and Scott as they delve into a fascinating discussion with Scott, CEO of Caddis Cloud Solutions, exploring his journey from military service to leading the data center industry. Scott shares his background from a military family, his transition from the Marine Corps to corporate project management, and his insights into the evolving data center landscape. We discuss the industry's shift toward higher density systems, the rise of renewable and nuclear energy solutions, and the increasing demand for data-driven infrastructure. Scott highlights his company's role in bridging gaps between landowners and tech operators, emphasizes the need for innovative power solutions, and addresses the impact of emerging technologies like AI on the workforce. His vision for the future includes collaboration, sustainability, and advancing the tech sector with a focus on both innovation and societal responsibility. For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk and guests Todd and Rebecca Frey discuss the challenges faced by military spouses, the importance of supporting them in their careers, and the initiatives taken by companies like Equinix to provide opportunities and resources for military spouses' professional growth.

Kirk is back with Rhea Williams, Chief Commercial Officer for E3 Platforms, to discuss the impact of technology's industrial revolution compared to revolutions of the past. Shedding light on the expanding infrastructure projects by major companies, the challenges in building power plants and interconnected microgrids, and the initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry. They also highlight the necessity for creating more leadership opportunities for women, promoting confidence, and empowerment through practice and representation in male-dominated industries, encouraging women to speak up and be heard.
For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Dan Lombardo, Sr. MEP Preconstruction Manager at The Beck Group, and guest host Anthony Garcia, President of Overwatch Hyperscale, continue their conversation about mental health, mentorship, and how Dan got into the industry. Discussions on recognizing destructive patterns, seeking help when needed, and finding purpose as essential steps towards mental well-being.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk continues the conversation with Daniel Crosby, founder and CEO of Legend Energy Advisors, as they highlight the challenges and opportunities in infrastructure projects, power generation, and data centers, and stress the need for a deep understanding of the energy ecosystem. Their discussion delves into the role of data centers in driving change in power consumption, emphasizing the importance of educating consumers on energy usage and transparent pricing signals. With the importance of understanding gas dynamics, leveraging real-time data, and upcoming industry shifts due to AI and cloud adoption, they underscore the interconnected nature of industries.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Join Kirk and Mason Ward, President at 6Fathoms Consulting, for DCR’s 100th Episode! In this episode, they discuss Mason's journey from being an undisciplined student to excelling in the Navy's nuclear program. highlighting the benefits of military training and the valuable skills it instills in you. They explore diverse career paths and commend Mason's innovative approach to success. Thank you to our Title Sponsor MCIS - Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. provides interior architectural solutions for data, cloud, and mission critical centers across North America. We offer everything from polished, epoxy, and sealed concrete to raised flooring, hot/cold aisle containment, and high-density ceiling grid. We also install raised access flooring in office spaces and provide underfloor air distribution testing to commission spaces - https://mcis-inc.com For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Brittany Miller, Senior Vice President of NTT Global Data Centers, shares how mentorship can lead to opportunity.

Josh Snowhorn, CEO & Founder of Quantum Loophole, cracks open some tequila with Kirk as they talk about the challenges of disrupting industries, handling criticism, and leveraging platforms to transform the data center industry.

Jacob Schick, Marine Corp veteran and CEO of One Tribe Foundation, converses with us about his experiences in the military and sheds light on what society can do to better understand our soldiers and veterans.

Justin Tinoco, friend of the show and Exec VP at Rosendin, joins Kirk to discuss with start in the data center industry, and the need for the industry to change direction to attract and retain skilled craftsmen.

Kirk sits down with his great friend, Bill Mazzetti, VP of Innovation at Rosendin, to discuss the value and importance of the people you surround yourself with in the data center industry and how you work to bring out the best in those around you and allow them to bring out the best in you.

Kirk continues his conversation with Jen Reininger, Senior Development Manager at Yondr, discussing exciting developments at Yonder, raising strong confident women, and what lies ahead.

In this DCAC Europe Special Episode, Kirk and Cathal reveal the story behind their transatlantic partnership, the exciting journey of DCAC Europe’s inception, the reason behind bringing it to Dublin, Ireland, and their motivations and challenges faced in organizing an industry leading conference in a new country. For more information visit- https://europe.dcac-live.com. For sponsorship inquires email marlee@dcac-live.com Thank you to our Title Sponsor MCIS - Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. provides interior architectural solutions for data, cloud, and mission critical centers across North America. We offer everything from polished, epoxy, and sealed concrete to raised flooring, hot/cold aisle containment, and high-density ceiling grid. We also install raised access flooring in office spaces and provide underfloor air distribution testing to commission spaces - https://mcis-inc.com For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Looking back at the most insightful and engaging moments from 2023. From a Medal of Honor recipient to the incoming challenges and opportunities of AI, take a trip down memory lane with Kirk and his guests.

Kirk is joined once again by Mike Sarraille, CEO and Founder of Talent War Group (recently acquired by Overwatch) to discuss his transition to the data center industry, the critical need for effective leadership training, particularly in the face of national security threats brought on by AI and technological demands, and the necessity of innovative approaches to leadership training to prepare the next generation of leaders. 0:00 Welcome to the Data Center World 2:12 The Excitement of Transition 6:00 Evolved Leadership in the Data Center 8:51 The Need for Leadership Training 14:07 The Role of Veterans in Industry 17:04 Understanding the Data Center's Impact 19:10 The Future of AI and Data Centers 22:07 National Security and Industry Growth 35:37 The Conversation Shifts to Nuclear Energy 43:27 China's Nuclear Advancements and Global Impact 51:49 The Long-term View of Global Relations 53:47 Preparing the Next Generation for Change 56:57 Technology's Unintended Consequences 59:52 The New Age of Warfare 1:00:06 The Evolution of Education 1:03:38 The Fifth Industrial Revolution 1:06:13 The Chinese Education System 1:13:07 Ethics in Warfare 1:14:42 The Impact of Social Media 1:22:00 AI and Job Opportunities 1:25:32 The Future of Leadership 1:30:13 The Military's Role in Society 1:32:57 The Need for Adaptability 1:44:49 The Generational Shift 1:51:30 Data Centers and National Security For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk is joined by the co-founders of Nomad Futurist, Nabeel Mahmood and Philip Koblence, discussing their backgrounds, how they met, and their motivation to demystify technology and share industry stories to inspire and educate a younger generation about the data center industry.

Former Submarine Commander and Quantum GM at Compass Datacenters, Tony Grayson, discusses his passion for supporting our veterans and provides details for his latest product and how it can support many in our industry.

We join back up with Overwatch CFO Sam Persico and Overwatch CSO Joe Pinzon as they get into the controversial topics of why Chicago pizza is the best and what makes Chicago hotdogs so special, and a call to the veteran community to consider joining the data center field.

Kirk sits down in the studio with KC Mares, MegaWatt Consulting, as they discuss the evolution of power solutions, the current energy challenges facing operators, and the role of on-site generation and natural gas as cleaner alternatives.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk chats with Data Center Industry Veterans Hadassa Lutz and Todd Smithabout honey harvesting, drawing inspiration from others, and building the future of the data center industry.

Rhea Williams, Chief Commercial Officer for E3 Platforms, joins Kirk to discuss Rhea's transitions from fashion and real estate into the data center industry. They speculate on the future of the industry, underlining the significance of innovation, community involvement, and strategic planning in adapting to the rapidly changing technological environment. 

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk and Thomas McAndrew, Founder and CEO of Enchanted Rock, dive deep into dual-purpose microgrids, Thomas' commitment to the goal of zero carbon emissions, and where he sees things going in the future.

Kirk is joined by former Marine sniper and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer, who reflects on his time serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, his team's engagement with the enemy that led to difficult choices and tragic outcomes, and eventually reaching a point of reflection and gratitude towards those who guided his path.

Recorded with DCAC 2024, Kirk chats with Zachary Zawilla & David Velosa, Distributed Power Solutions, on building trust through reputation.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk is joined by Thomas McAndrew, Founder and CEO of Enchanted Rock, to discuss his childhood, passion for rebuilding cars, his time in the U.S. Navy, and journey toward founding his company.

Kirk and Adam discuss the impact of regulations on the data center industry, emphasizing the transformative capacity of data centers and the importance of education to attract a skilled workforce. Highlighting the industry's positive narrative to inspire future generations and exploring the significance of having a "plan A" in life and promoting data centers as a viable career choice.

Kirk sits down with his former Chief of the Boat (COB) from his time in the U.S. Navy, CMDCM Bruce Lee, USN, Ret., to discuss Bruce's early life, naval career path, mentorship and how to draw out the best in yourself and those around you.

In part two of this two part episode, Kirk continues his talk with Jesse Sargent, EVP of Construction at Overwatch, about his careers journey, military history, and their shared ongoing dedication to helping to provide purpose and promise to military veterans entering the job field.

Kirk sits down with Kayla Remington, consultant at Mission Critical and Construction, to discuss her path to the industry, the importance of mentors and challenging situations, and the significance of honesty and trust in professional relationships.

Retired US Army Veteran Bill Clark of Microsoft discusses how simply showing interest can help you excel in this space.

Join Kirk and Kevin as they delve into the intricate world of modern technology, exploring its impact on our daily lives and the future of innovation. They discuss the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, how it’s shaping industries and the ethical considerations that come with it. Additionally, they explore the dynamic intersection of technology and human behavior, examining how digital tools are transforming communication, work, and leisure. Their conversation also touches on emerging trends in tech and what they mean for both businesses and individuals, offering insightful perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

OVERWATCHERS, Jesse Sargent, Skyler Eden, and Michael Maggio takeover DCAC Revolution to swap war stories and share their experience through the Overwatch Veterans in Transition (OVITA) program.

Join Kirk and Mike Sarraille, CEO of Talent War Group, in this episode where they delve into military experiences, leadership lessons, and the impact of technology on society. They discuss the transformation from military service to civilian life, emphasizing values and character over financial success. On the edge of a new industrial revolution, what are our blind spots and what will change in entirely new ways? For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

New CSO of Overwatch, Joseph Pinzon provides examples from his life growing up in Chicago and shares how growing up hard isn’t always a bad thing, but rather enables a path resilience to forge a path to success. 

Kirk continues the conversation with Karli Waldon, Chief of Staff at Overwatch. How has Karli's introduction to the data center industry changed? How does a "tech" lens on the industry change its shape? Communication and representation at all levels within organizations are crucial for attracting diverse candidates. Empowering individuals, actively advocating for change, and encouraging collaboration can drive collective growth and optimization processes in the industry.

US Navy Veteran and Chief Information Security Officer, Mark Houpt, of DataBank joins the revolution to share what it takes to keep our data and information secure.

Recorded LIVE from DCAC 2024, Jesse Sargent of Overwatch sits down with Trent Vaden, Director of Client Engagement at CAI For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Dan Lombardo, Sr. MEP Preconstruction Manager at The Beck Group, and guest host Anthony Garcia, President of Overwatch Hyperscale, shared insights on addressing mental health, particularly in the construction industry, where high suicide rates are prevalent. They stress the need for proactive mental health support programs, such as the ASK program implemented by Beck Construction, focusing on awareness and support. Destigmatizing mental health issues, effective communication in counseling, and the significance of proper diagnosis and treatment.

See Dan's slides here: https://archive.org/details/mental-heath-stats--dcr

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk and his former Chief of the Boat (COB) from his time in the U.S. Navy, CMDCM Bruce Lee, USN, Ret., discuss leadership, perseverance, and the importance of the military family looking out for one another.

Kirk is joined by Christian Belady, Senior Advisor at DigitalBridge, to discuss his pivotal role in developing the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) metric, emphasizing its importance in measuring data center efficiency. He also highlights the collaborative efforts with industry peers, such as forming the Green Grid organization, to establish PUE as a universal standard for data center efficiency.

Kirk sits down with Rob Coyle and Dirk Van Slyke of the Open Compute Project to discuss the origins of the OCP and what they are doing to drive change in the future.

Kirk continues the conversation with Jen Reininger, Senior Development Manager at Yondr, on her journey with The Human Reset, breaking free from linear thinking and embracing a more abstract approach to personal and professional growth.

Kirk is joined by Dean Nelson (Cato), Bill Kleyman (Neu.ro), Liz Cruz (Accelsius), and Rob Coyle (Open Compute Project) in a roundtable discussion into the critical intersections of technology, energy, and infrastructure challenges in the data center industry. Covering topics such as the role of nuclear power, the impact of digitization on energy demands, and the need for collaborative solutions, the conversation highlights the industry's collective efforts to address evolving complexities and foster innovation.

US Navy Master Chief Tim Kearns joins us to share what it is like to learn about the data center industry as he prepares to transition out of the military.

Alejandro Cantu Sepulveda (COO at Layer 9) & Freddy Padilla (Engineering Director at Page) join guest host Anthony Garcia (President of Hyperscale at Overwatch) to discuss their childhoods, their Hispanic heritage, and how they discovered their path to the data center world.

CEO of Katalyst DI, Brett Rogers, joins DCAC Revolution and emphasizes Katalysts’ efforts of helping customers improve the way they manage their supply chain and off-site production by multiple avenues including a new software they are working on.

Alan Roche, Data Center Commissioning Market Lead at HDR, joins Kirk on this episode of the DCAC Revolution Podcast. They discuss transitioning from military service to the private sector successfully and much more.

Jesse Sargent, President of Delivery at Overwatch, is a few weeks in to his journey through The Human Reset and discusses some of the nitty gritty details of the experience and what it takes to get through it.

Join Kirk and Mike Sarraille, CEO of Talent War Group, for part two of their discussion. They reflect on self-improvement, mental endurance, and the collective growth in navigating the complexities of the modern world. Delving into the implications of AI integration and technology in healthcare, they stress the need for a harmonious relationship between humanity and technology for future generations. Emphasizing the value of learning from failure, resilience, and effective leadership in fostering engagement and retention within organizations.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

The purpose of the DCAC Revolution podcast is to create a meaningful connection with a sophisticated audience that is starved to learn more about the people leading innovation in our industry.  

We invite you to join the Data Center Anti Conference Revolution Podcast, a long form conversation hosted by me, Kirk Offel, with some of the data center industry’s luminaries.  

Every industry has "All Stars" and the data center industry is no different.  Our goal with the DCAC Revolution podcast is to deep dive with these celebrities to uncover what inspires them to transform the data center industry.

Kirk and Lindsey Bruner, Chief Operating Officer of CleanArc Data Centers, sit down to talk about the mission of CleanArc to bring clean energy to the data center industry and the powerful role of women in driving that future.

Kirk and Justin Tinoco, Executive VP at Rosendin, further explore the rapid growth of the data industry, connecting with the upcoming labor force, and establishing a solid foundation to continue to grow this industry.

Jesse Kendrick, U.S Navy Veteran and Recruiting Operations & Training Development Manager at OVERWATCH, joins the #DCRevolution and shares how taking a chance on people and opportunities can lead to a greater purpose and impact on you and your community.

Recorded with DCAC 2024, Kirk talks with Andy Kirby, DPR Construction, on the future of the construction industry.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Alejandro Cantu Sepulveda (COO at Layer 9) & Freddy Padilla (Engineering Director at Page) join guest host Anthony Garcia (President of Hyperscale at Overwatch) to discuss their data center careers and the growth and opportunity happening in Latin America.

Kirk is joined by Adam Black as we follow his journey from working with companies like Facebook and Google, to his Current position as Senior VP of design and construction at TA Realty. In this episode they touch on learning from your mistakes, how to build a good company culture, and how ai is changing the landscape for data centers going forward.

Kirk is joined by Pete DiSanto, President of Operations at Enchanted Rock, to discuss his childhood, his naval experience, and choosing a career in engineering.

Kirk is joined by former Marine sniper and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer, who discusses his journey from military service to becoming an entrepreneur and founder of "The Dash," promoting healthy living, purposeful lives, and emphasizing the importance of actions over judgments and unity over differences.

With a background in mechanical and electrical engineering sparked by childhood tinkering, Osvaldo Morales, Chief Officer, Infrastructure at Denvr Dataworks, has transformed the idea of data centers. He and Kirk recount Oz's beginnings and discuss the environment needed for real innovation to take shape.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Recorded LIVE from DCAC 2024, Kirk is joined by Carsten Schrick (Managing Director, Innio Jenbacher North America) & Thomas Seeber (Director, Global Accounts & Technical Sales) from INNIO For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

**Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of suicidal ideations. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help or conact- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline** Join Kirk And Cathal Quinn, as they share deeply personal stories and experiences. They emphasize the value of educational podcasts aiming to inspire and inform their audience about complex subjects within data centers and industry advancements. Cathal reflects on his upbringing, which shaped his strong work ethic and resilience, highlighting its impact on his perspective and advocacy for mental health and veteran support. Kirk shares his journey in the data center sector, stressing the role of individuals in driving innovation. They explore personal struggles such as addiction and mental health challenges. They stress the importance of balance, self-care, and open communication in leadership and personal life, underscoring the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding. Thank you to our Title Sponsor MCIS - Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. provides interior architectural solutions for data, cloud, and mission critical centers across North America. We offer everything from polished, epoxy, and sealed concrete to raised flooring, hot/cold aisle containment, and high-density ceiling grid. We also install raised access flooring in office spaces and provide underfloor air distribution testing to commission spaces - https://mcis-inc.com For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Overwatch CFO Sam Persico and Overwatch CSO Joe Pinzon sit down together to reminisce on their time growing up in Chicago

Kirk is joined by Pooya Kabiri, CEO of METIS Power, to discuss the increasing demand for efficient energy solutions in data centers, AI, microgrids, and the importance of collaboration.

0:00 Introduction to METIS Power

5:08 Power Generation Solutions

17:59 The Growing Demand for Data Centers

29:26 The Role of AI in Power Needs

37:53 Understanding Microgrids

50:51 The Future of Power and Microgrids

54:45 Microgrid Demand and Utility Dynamics

56:43 Reliability and Microgrid Solutions

59:26 Competing with Utility Providers

1:00:40 Temporary Power and Service Agreements

1:01:29 Microgrid vs. Traditional Power Solutions

1:04:55 The Role of UPS in Data Centers

1:07:31 Philosophical Perspectives on Microgrid Reliability

1:09:50 The Future of Microgrids in Data Centers

1:11:51 Fuel Supply and Market Dynamics

1:14:22 Addressing Demand Fluctuations

1:17:27 Navigating Regulatory Challenges

1:22:29 The Economics of Microgrid Operations

1:27:19 Ideal Customers and Geographical Considerations

1:31:11 Exploring Different Industry Applications

1:34:12 Microgrid Size and Scalability

1:39:05 The Future Landscape of Microgrids

1:43:45 Demystifying Microgrid Capabilities

1:48:36 Closing Thoughts and Industry Reflections

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk sits down with Todd Frey, Talent Acquisition at Equinix, to discuss his career, providing opportunities for transitioning service members, and his commitment to giving military service members experience and support in their transition to civilian careers.

Kirk and Jim explore the profound impact of artificial intelligence on various industries and processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. They discuss the ethical considerations surrounding AI's decision-making capabilities, emphasizing the necessity of developing responsible and unbiased AI systems.

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical Thank you to our Title Sponsor MCIS - Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. provides interior architectural solutions for data, cloud, and mission critical centers across North America. We offer everything from polished, epoxy, and sealed concrete to raised flooring, hot/cold aisle containment, and high-density ceiling grid. We also install raised access flooring in office spaces and provide underfloor air distribution testing to commission spaces - https://mcis-inc.com

In this episode, Karli Waldon, Chief of Staff at Overwatch, joins Kirk to delve into their experiences in the industry, focusing on the evolution from veteran recruitment to leadership coaching. They discuss the evolving nature of the data center industry, adapting to changes, and providing value to their teams. Diversity and fresh perspectives in leadership roles are crucial for innovation and success, especially in supporting veterans and addressing talent gaps.

Overwatch challenges the industry to become a pledge, provide purpose, and hire transitioning veterans.

In part 2 of Kirk's conversation with Christian Belady, Senior Advisor at DigitalBridge, they discuss the imperative of making data centers ecologically transparent and minimizing their ecological impact through innovative measures. Belady emphasizes the importance of thinking beyond conventional boundaries, inspiring others to think bigger, and fostering collaboration within the industry to address emerging challenges.

Kirk continues the conversation with Osvaldo Morales, Chief Officer, Infrastructure at Denvr Dataworks, on coming up with innovative solutions in the data center industry while maintaining stability in business. 

For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Rob DeVita, CEO of Mejeticks, shares how important a role passion plays in life.

U.S. Army Veteran and OVERWATCH specialist in Technology, Government, and Veteran Recruiting, Anthony Garcia, joins us again to share his passion for supporting the Veteran Unit.

Kirk sits down with Scotty Neil, president and co-founder of Horse Soldier Bourbon, to discuss his transition from a 17-year military career in Special Forces to entrepreneurship in distilling, how military training fosters teamwork and leadership in business, and the valuable contributions of veterans in entrepreneurship.
0:00 Intro to the Journey

2:36 The Man Behind the Mic

5:10 Scotty's Military Background

8:17 Transitioning to Civilian Life

9:23 The Birth of Horse Soldier Bourbon

9:52 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

11:14 Understanding the Roots of Bourbon

13:14 The History of Whiskey Taxation

15:20 Lessons Learned in Special Operations

16:49 The Importance of Training Fundamentals

23:21 Bonds Forged in Service

25:16 Family Legacy and Military Heritage

29:03 The Impact of 9/11

55:45 Realities of the War on Terror

58:04 Proposals for Military Action

58:11 The Plan Against the Taliban

1:00:21 Hollywood and the Reality

1:05:15 The Script Dispute

1:07:21 Skills from Military Training

1:11:34 Creating a Nonprofit for Veterans

1:19:53 The Journey to the Distillery

1:24:55 Discovering Opportunities in Distillation

1:28:55 Crafting the Perfect Bourbon Bottle

1:43:24 Celebrating Brotherhood and Purpose

1:52:08 Reflections on the Army-Navy Game For more about us: https://linktr.ee/overwatchmissioncritical

Kirk is joined again by Rob Coyle and Dirk Van Slyke of the Open Compute Project to focus on the significant and growing impact of AI on data center demand and the need for a balanced approach to our increasing reliance on technology.