Episodes

  • Bridging the gap between factory data and agents

    Bridging the gap between factory data and agents
    Feb 4 2026
    In this episode, we journey from weather woes in Franconia straight into the heart of Amsterdam’s AI innovation, exploring what happens when robotics, world models, and agentic AI collide. We share our firsthand impressions from deep-dive research sessions at Lab42, where startups and researchers are joining forces to push industrial AI forward. You'll hear my conversation with John Harrington of HighByte, who breaks down the role of MCP services and why they’re critical for bridging the gap between factory data and intelligent agents. We don’t just talk tech—we talk about the people, the practical challenges, and the evolving landscape that’s making industrial data accessible to everyone, not just engineers. If you’re curious about how symbolic AI, digital cousins, and scalable architectures are transforming manufacturing, or you want to know what’s next for AI in the Alps, this episode is your front-row seat. Tune in for insights, laughs, and a clear-eyed look at the road ahead for industrial-grade AI.
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • AI module that sits between the sensor and host

    AI module that sits between the sensor and host
    Jan 28 2026
    In this episode, I dive deep into the future of industrial AI with Andreas de Jonge, exploring how inline AI is reshaping real-world manufacturing. We discuss why tailored, ultra-efficient AI models can outperform bulky, generic solutions—especially in Europe’s highly specialized industries. Andreas shares how his company’s EdgeBrain device brings intelligence directly to the data stream, enabling plug-and-play integration and unprecedented robustness for even the oldest production lines. Together, we unpack the challenges of brownfield integration, the power of synthetic data, and the path to true European digital sovereignty. If you’re curious about the next wave of industrial automation and what it means for productivity, this conversation is not to be missed.
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    43 mins
  • After the cucumbers AI - a robot for industrial applications

    After the cucumbers AI - a robot for industrial applications
    Jan 21 2026
    In this episode, we dive into the evolution of AI robotics, exploring how lessons from cucumber-picking robots are now revolutionizing industrial inspection. We sit down with Wouter from VBTI to unpack the journey from complex greenhouse challenges to the development of Adam One—an inspection robot that doesn’t just automate, but truly understands the task at hand. We reflect on the unique technical hurdles, the fusion of multiple AI models, and the potential for scalable, domain-specific foundation models. As always, we bring our authentic curiosity and skepticism to the latest industry trends, from federated learning revivals to the shifting boundaries of edge and cloud AI. Join us for a conversation that connects practical innovation with the big questions shaping industrial AI.
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    44 mins
  • Gartner Analysts: OpsMate - "the cool vendor" ; but why?

    Gartner Analysts: OpsMate - "the cool vendor" ; but why?
    Jan 14 2026
    In this episode, Peter sits down with James Zhang, co-founder and CPO of OpsMate AI, to explore the game-changing role of AI agents in factory operations. We discuss why traditional human-centric manufacturing models are hitting their limits and how a hybrid workforce—combining humans, robots, and digital agents—can address the skilled labor shortage and boost productivity. James shares firsthand insights into the unique challenges of deploying AI in diverse factory environments, the importance of knowledge graphs, and why empowering frontline teams is key to successful adoption. If you’re curious about the practical steps to bring AI agents onto your shop floor, or just want to understand what the future of industrial automation looks like, this conversation is for you.
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    42 mins
  • The Race for a Billion

    The Race for a Billion
    Jan 7 2026
    In this episode, we dive into the ambitious European initiative offering up to one billion euros to fuel the next wave of AI innovation. I sit down with Johannes Otterbach, the so-called "billion euro man," to discuss how SPRIND is bridging the gap between research and industry, and what it really takes to launch a world-class AI lab in Europe. We explore the challenges of scaling, the importance of industrial-grade AI, and why Europe's unique landscape demands new strategies for success. Along the way, you'll hear our candid thoughts on talent, technology, and the future of frontier AI. If you're curious about the intersection of ambitious funding, cutting-edge research, and industrial application, this conversation is for you.
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    44 mins
  • From Charity to Taxpayer: Redefining Annotation

    From Charity to Taxpayer: Redefining Annotation
    Dec 17 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the world of responsible data annotation with Andreas Schachl, co-founder of Responsible Annotation Services. We explore how neurodivergent individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—are bringing unparalleled focus and precision to the task of data labeling, raising the bar for AI model training quality. Andreas shares the origins of their company, the unique strengths of their team, and why European sovereignty and data protection matter more than ever. We discuss the practical steps involved in their annotation process, how they measure quality, and the real impact their work has on customers and the broader tech ecosystem. Join us for an insightful conversation that challenges assumptions and highlights how inclusive innovation is driving the next frontier in industrial AI.
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    35 mins
  • When Cables Meet AI: Reinventing Robot Reliability

    When Cables Meet AI: Reinventing Robot Reliability
    Dec 10 2025
    In this episode, Robert sit down with Nick Tebeau from BizLink to explore how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing something as fundamental as cable management in industrial robotics. We dive into why predictive maintenance matters, how edge devices can deliver real-time insights, and what it takes to keep production lines running smoothly without ever touching the robot controller. You'll hear about the challenges of creating adaptable AI models for complex manufacturing environments and how customer needs are shaping the future of smart factories. If you're curious about the ROI of industrial AI, the realities of edge computing, or how even the simplest hardware can become a game-changer, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and forward-looking ideas.
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    19 mins
  • Why Robots Need an Ear: The Sound of Industry

    Why Robots Need an Ear: The Sound of Industry
    Dec 3 2025
    In this episode, we dive into why sound is the next big leap for AI in industry. I share insights from recent events, including the SPS exhibition and Europe's AI scene, and discuss why edge AI is outpacing the cloud on the shop floor. Then, I sit down with Dr. Finnur Pind from Treble Technologies to explore how synthetic sound data is powering smarter machines—from voice recognition in cars to giving robots a sense of hearing. You'll hear how simulating sound opens up new possibilities for robotics and spatial awareness, and why industries are racing to make AI models that can truly listen. We also touch on the unique AI startup scene in Reykjavik, the challenges of accurate sound modeling, and what the future holds for audio-driven innovation. Join us to discover why the future of industrial AI might just depend on what machines can hear.
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    46 mins