Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

In this episode, Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Mahmoud Sabooni, lead quantum processor engineer at Open Quantum Design (OQD). Today’s conversation takes us to the snowy landscapes of Canada and deep into the heart of quantum hardware—specifically, the fascinating world of trapped ion systems.

Mahmoud Sabooni shares insights from his experience in both academia and industry, explaining how OQD is pioneering open-source quantum hardware and what “full stack quantum computing” really means. The episode covers the differences between trapped ions and other quantum computing platforms, the challenges of scaling these systems, and how...

Welcome to a new episode of Impact Quantum! In today’s show, host Frank La Vigne and co-host Candice Gillhoolley dive deep into the fascinating world of quantum chemistry with special guest Natasa Nadoveza, who recently completed her PhD in this cutting-edge field. Together, they unpack what nuclear quantum dynamics is, explore its significance in understanding molecular processes, and discuss how quantum-level simulation could revolutionize industries ranging from medicine and drug discovery to energy and materials science.

Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear about the very real challenges of translating theoretical breakthroughs into practical tools, especially when it c...

In today’s episode, hosts BAILeY, Frank La Vigne, and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with experimental quantum physicist Katanya Kuntz—a pioneering voice who’s bridging the gap between Earth and space through her work with the Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite (KEYSAT).

Get ready to dive into the foundations of a quantum internet and learn how tomorrow’s secure communications might depend on orbiting lasers. We’ll unravel the challenges of sending quantum information across continents, explore the wild differences between classical and quantum tech, and ask why, perhaps, your own body is already home to quantum pr...

Welcome back to Impact Quantum—the show that proves you don’t need a PhD or a lab coat to dive into the world of quantum technology. In this episode, hosts BAILeY, Frank La Vigne, and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by returning guest Brian Lenahan, founder and chair of the Quantum Strategy Institute and prolific author on business adoption of quantum technologies.

Together, they explore how quantum computing is reshaping business risk, the surge in national quantum strategies (especially in Canada), and what real quantum readiness looks like for enterprises today. Brian Lenahan shares practical ways organizations can...

Welcome to a special crossover episode of Impact Quantum, where we dive straight into the action from the floor of Nvidia GTC in Washington, D.C.! In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley take you behind the scenes of one of the tech world’s most exciting conferences—from AI-driven robots and GPU-powered supercomputers to a surprising amount of quantum computing buzz.

Join us as Frank shares his firsthand experiences, including the latest hardware reveals, government involvement, unique swag, and even the cosplay antics of attendees impersonating Nvidia’s CEO. Candace and Frank also unpack...

Welcome to Impact Quantum, where curiosity meets real-world quantum insight! In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Bob Sutor—yes, the Bob Sutor—author of "Dancing with Qubits" and CEO of the Sutor Group Intelligence and Advisory. With decades of experience in computing, Bob brings a rare blend of wisdom, clarity, and wit to the conversation.

Join us as we dive deep into the rapidly evolving quantum industry. We uncover why there are 85 quantum hardware companies (and why that number is likely to shrink), debate the eternal hype cycle versus real breakthroughs, and explore why quantum comp...

On this episode of Impact Quantum, we dive into the visionary world of Sanjay Chittore, founder of Quantum AI Global and QLabs, who’s on a mission to bring quantum theory out of the realm of science fiction and into real-world applications.

Joined by host Frank La Vigne and the wonderfully quantum-curious Candice Gillhoolley, we unravel common myths about quantum computing—like whether you really need a quantum computer to build quantum products—and explore the massive impacts quantum technology is poised to have on everything from healthcare diagnostics to next-generation memory and sensing.

Sanjay shares...

On this milestone 30th episode of Impact Quantum Season 3, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Vyom Patel, a master’s student at the University of Waterloo—often described as the MIT of Canada.

This episode dives into Vyom’s journey from machine learning to the cutting-edge challenges of quantum algorithms and quantum error correction. Together, they unpack the common misconceptions around quantum computing, reveal the importance of strong mathematical foundations, and discuss the very real risks and rewards of working in a nascent, rapidly evolving field.

Vyam shares how he filters throug...

Welcome to Impact Quantum, the show that brings quantum computing down to Earth—no PhD required, just curiosity and a love for tech that's just a bit mind-bending. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by special guests David Isaac, co-founder of Abaqus (yes, with a Q, because quantum startups can’t resist!). Together, they dive into the fascinating intersection of quantum computing and finance.

You’ll hear firsthand how quantum technologies are poised to reshape the fintech landscape, from portfolio optimization and anomaly detection to the prospects of quantum AI. The crew b...

On this episode of Impact Quantum, we beam into the heart of France’s quantum revolution with special guests Sabine Mehr, Chief Quantum Projects Officer at GENCI, and Félix Givois, Quantum Computing Projects Engineer.

Join hosts Candace Gillhoolley and Frank La Vigne as they unravel how France is building a vibrant, government-backed quantum ecosystem—powering everything from photonic quantum processing units and neutral atoms to national strategies that foster collaboration across startups, academia, and industry.

Discover how public-private partnerships fuel innovation, why France is betting on a diverse range of quantum technologies, and what all t...

Welcome to a special edition of Impact Quantum!

In this episode, we unlock the latest breakthroughs in our dazzlingly data-rich quantum industry reports. Whether you’re a seasoned qubit wrangler or just quantum-curious, there’s something here to energize your imagination.

Join Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley as they reveal how quantum technology is leapfrogging from theory to real-world industry applications. From deep dives into sector trends like energy, pharma, finance, and defense, to behind-the-scenes looks at tools like their interactive network graph visualization, you’ll get a first-hand view of where quantum is headed...

Welcome to Impact Quantum, the podcast where career paths are anything but straight lines and curiosity is the ultimate quantum skill. In today’s episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley are joined by the extraordinary Christopher Bishop—TEDx speaker, futurist, deep tech MC, and host of Qubit Confidential—whose eclectic journey has taken him from performing on stage with rock legends like ZZ Top to driving innovation at IBM, and now delving deep into the world of quantum technologies.

Together, they explore the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum careers—the surprising roles you didn’t know exist...

Welcome to Impact Quantum, the podcast where curiosity meets cutting-edge technology and quantum concepts get untangled for everyone—no physics PhD required. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Clark Alexander, mathematician, quantum thinker, co-founder of Enerjuice, and self-proclaimed flaneur. Together, they dive into the unexpected intersections of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and the energy markets.

Clark shares insights from his recent experience as a juror at Egypt’s first national quantum hackathon, unpacks the real-world energy demands of quantum hardware, and challenges some industry assumptions about quantum advantage and supremacy. From...

Curious about what really goes on behind the scenes in quantum computing—beyond the hype, buzzwords, and complex jargon? This episode of Impact Quantum is your ticket to the inner workings of the industry, as hosts Candace Gillhoolley and Frank La Vigne, along with our semi-sentient host BAILeY, sit down with Princeton PhD physicist and Quantum Machines’ customer success lead, Kevin Villegas Rosales.

Kevin takes us on a journey from his early fascination with the “very small things” in physics to his hands-on role helping university labs, startups, and companies tackle the real-world challenges of quantum hardware. We’ll de...

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the show where curiosity meets the cutting edge of quantum computing—and you don’t need a PhD to keep up. In this episode, our hosts Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY are joined by Michael Magid, a doctoral candidate at Binghamton University, whose research sits at the crossroads of system science, quantum artificial intelligence, and quantum information theory.

Together, they travel from the suburbs of Westchester County to the coldest corners of quantum labs, exploring the reality of what qubits can (and can’t) do, the biggest misconceptions surrounding quantum comput...

Get ready for a wild ride through the world where quantum physics meets jazz, deep learning, and the mysterious power of Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation.” On today’s episode of Impact Quantum, hosts Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY sit down with Shahaf Asban, mathematical physicist and head of research at Classiq, to unravel the wonders and oddities of quantum sensing.

Shahaf takes us from his unexpected journey—starting in music and drum kits, all the way to leading research at the intersection of quantum technologies and AI. He breaks down quantum sensing in a way anyone...

Welcome to Impact Quantum, the podcast for the quantum curious—where caffeine, ambition, and a hint of quantum entanglement power every conversation. In this globe-trotting episode, hosts Bailey, Candace Gillhoolley, and Frank La Vigne dissect the state of quantum initiatives across 30 countries, exploring how nations from Canada to Israel are racing ahead with billion-dollar investments, strategic alliances, and sometimes even crystal chandeliers behind industry leaders. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of their comprehensive global quantum report, complete with a Quantum Readiness Index that ranks countries not by style, but by their funding, startups, and readiness for a...

Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum! This time, we dive deep into the intersection of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship with Henning Deccant, co-founder of aqbnet. Join host Frank La Vigne and co-host Candice Gillhooly as Henning shares his unique journey from physicist to quantum entrepreneur, offers insights on the evolution of quantum computing from the days of D-Wave and early IBM innovations to today’s hybrid quantum-classical breakthroughs, and unpacks why quantum machine learning’s initial hype has faded—at least for now.

We’ll explore what’s truly happening beneath the buzz: the real advan...

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the show where quantum computing leaps from the chalkboard right onto the cutting edge of real-world business. In this episode, host Frank La Vigne and co-host BAILeY welcome back Yuval Boger, now Chief Commercial Officer at Quera Computing. Yuval takes us behind the scenes of Quera’s recent $230 million funding round, reveals how they’re shipping next-gen quantum computers to Japan, and dives deep into the fascinating world of neutral atom technology—think single atoms wrangled by lasers, all operating at room temperature (no cryogenic chandeliers required).

Together, they explore how global govern...

On this episode of Impact Quantum, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gilhooly welcome Brian Siegelwax—who proudly calls himself the “second least qualified person in quantum”—for a refreshingly honest, lighthearted, and insightful dive into the world of quantum computing. Broadcasting from the Philippines, Brian shares the unusual story of how he accidentally stumbled into quantum technology, evolving from a machine learning enthusiast to someone hooked by the mystery and challenge of the quantum realm.

With plenty of humor and humility, Brian unpacks why quantum computing can feel so addictive, discusses the real meaning of benchmarks and road...

In today’s episode, hosts Candace Gillhoolley and Frank are joined by Dr. Marvin Weinstein, emeritus particle physicist at Stanford and co-creator of Dynamic Quantum Clustering (DQC). Marvin pulls back the curtain on how a quantum mechanics-inspired algorithm, running on ordinary computers, is revolutionizing how we detect patterns in complex biological data—specifically brain cancer.

You’ll hear the fascinating story of how Marvin, driven by personal loss, dove into decades-old, heavily-studied cancer datasets with DQC and uncovered new, highly accurate tumor classifications and biological insights that even seasoned researchers had missed. With a unique approach that’s comple...

Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum, where we break down the wild, weird, and wonderful world of quantum computing—no flux capacitor or astrophysics degree required. This time, our hosts Bailey, Frank, and Candace are joined by Nati Erez, Director of Quantum Applications at Classiq Technologies, a company on the cutting edge of making quantum software not just for scientists, but for everyone.

In this episode, Nati demystifies what really goes on beneath the buzzwords, highlighting how Classiq is building the bridge from highly specialized quantum hardware to practical software anyone can use. We explore the ch...

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the show for everyone from the quantum curious to the truly entangled enthusiast. In this episode, we venture beyond Schrödinger’s cat and into the very real world of quantum-inspired engineering with guest Marouane Salhi, a physicist and CEO of Qubit Engineering. Hosted by Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY, this conversation dives into how quantum optimization is already tackling some of the planet’s biggest infrastructure challenges—think wind farm layouts and power grid management—not with futuristic quantum computers, but with innovative quantum-inspired algorithms and simulators.

Marouane walks us throug...

oday, we dive headfirst into the frontier of quantum technology with a special guest: Bert De Jong, senior scientist at Berkeley Lab and director of the Quantum Systems Accelerator, part of the U.S. Department of Energy's National Quantum Initiative. Join hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhooly—and our ever-charming, semi-sentient MC, Bailey—as we explore how Bert and his team are pushing the boundaries of quantum computing and sensing.

From gravitational sensing with entangled atoms to real-time power grid monitoring, Bert explains how quantum sensing is already reshaping fields from resource discovery to national security, and...

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the podcast for the Quantum Curious! In this special recap episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley return from a brief, doctor-approved hiatus to take stock of the whirlwind developments in the quantum computing universe. From billion-dollar buyouts—like IONQ's acquisition of Oxford Ionics—to IBM’s bold promise of a large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2029, the quantum ecosystem has never been more electrifying.

Frank and Candice reflect on just how much the show—and the quantum landscape—has evolved, touching on everything from the international race for quantum supremacy and the loomin...

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley are joined by Andy Schwaderer and Dr. Christopher Leach from Quantum Knight. As the podcast celebrates its recent top ranking on Feedspot, the conversation dives deep into the urgent realities of post-quantum encryption, highlighting the evolving threats facing our digital lives—far beyond the stereotypical “hackers in hoodies.”

Andy and Dr. Leach unpack why “being quantum ready isn’t optional, it’s essential,” sharing practical insights on defending against sophisticated adversaries, from nation-state actors to criminal gangs exploiting the cracks in legacy infrastructure. From the infamous Sony hack to modern...

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Nir Alfasi, the general manager of the Israeli Quantum Computing Center. Nir brings us insights straight from the forefront of quantum innovation—complete with a functioning quantum fridge in the background for that extra authentic touch.

Together, the team dives deep into Israel’s rapidly evolving quantum scene, the role of quantum data centers, and why quantum innovation is blossoming far beyond the traditional tech hubs of Silicon Valley. Nir unpacks how the Israeli Quantum Computing Center is helping startups and researchers worldwide accelerate thei...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Impact Quantum, the podcast where we unravel the ever-evolving world of quantum computing with curiosity, humor, and a dash of quantum weirdness. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Alex Kahn—author, educator, and quantum pioneer—to journey through the frontiers of the quantum ecosystem.

Get ready as Alex shares stories from the heart of College Park, Maryland, explores his experiences with Amazon Braket, and demystifies the hype versus reality in today’s rapidly changing quantum landscape. We’ll dive into hot topics like ion traps, o...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Impact Quantum, where we delve into the world of quantum computing and its blend with machine learning. In today’s episode titled "Superpositions and Super Careers: Harshita’s Quantum Leap," we are thrilled to have Harshita Gandhi join us. Harshita, a quantum machine learning engineer and graduate from Northeastern University, shares her captivating journey from a confused computer science undergrad to becoming a leading voice in this burgeoning field.

We'll explore the intricacies of quantum machine learning, discuss the potent mix of superconducting and photonic systems, and touch on the relevance of c...

Today, we're thrilled to take you on a fascinating journey where quantum computing meets real-world applications. In this episode, Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley welcome Anna White, president of Daikon and the visionary behind Hito Match—a dating app that leverages the power of quantum algorithms and AI hybrids to predict human behavior.

Anna discusses how quantum computing is breaking free from the confines of labs and physics arenas, proving its potential in fields as diverse as matchmaking, travel, and medical technology. Tune in as we explore how quantum is not just a concept on the ho...

Welcome to another captivating episode of Impact Quantum!

In today's exploration, our hosts, Frank La Vigne and Candice Gilhooly, dive deep into the ever-evolving world of quantum computing. From NVIDIA's GTC commentary and Bill Gates' views on quantum timelines to JPMorgan Chase's breakthrough in truly random randomness, there's plenty to unpack.

As they navigate the buzz of photonic qubits, hybrid architectures, and the rise of quantum tech hubs, Frank and Candice lend their wit and wisdom to help demystify the quantum realm. Whether you're quantum curious or a seasoned physicist, this episode promises a healthy...

Candace and Frank are joined today by an extraordinary guest, Geordi Rose, a trailblazer in the quantum computing space. Once the CEO and CTO of D Wave, Geordi is not only a quantum computing pioneer but also delves into the intersection of AI and quantum technology.

In this fascinating episode, we dive into Geordie's experiences and insights, from his innovative work at D Wave to his current projects in AI—touching upon reinforcement learning, quantum annealing, and even the enigma of consciousness itself. And if that isn't enough to take in, he’s on a unique vision ques...

In our latest podcast episode, hosts Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, along with Andy Schwaderer from Quantum Knight, dive into the critical need for upgrading security systems today to outpace tomorrow's quantum-powered threats. Key highlights include:

In this episode of Impact Quantum, we delve into the latest developments that are reshaping the quantum computing landscape.

Our hosts Frank La Vigne, Candace Gillhoolley, and Andy Leonard discuss Amazon AWS's announcement of the Ocelot, its first quantum computing chip designed to tackle the critical issue of error correction. They explore whether this innovation is the game-changer the industry needs or merely another milestone in the long journey towards practical quantum computing.

The conversation also covers how major technology players like Google, IBM, Microsoft, and significant international efforts, such as those from China, are...

In our latest episode of Impact Quantum, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley break down a whirlwind week in the quantum space. From Microsoft's bold claims to Israel's rising influence, there’s plenty to unpack:

🔹 Microsoft’s Quantum Leap? – We dive into Microsoft’s latest announcement on Majorana qubits. Is this the dawn of a new era, or just ambitious marketing? The debate is on!

🔹 Qubits, Demystified – Physical, logical, and virtual qubits—what’s the difference, and why does it matter? We explore their roles in error correction and the future of quantum computing.

🔹 Israel’s Quan...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Impact Quantum, the podcast where we delve into the fascinating world of quantum computing without needing a PhD in physics. Hosted by Frank La Vigne, a passionate quantum enthusiast, and joined by Candice Gilhooly, a self-proclaimed quantum curious individual, this episode promises to offer insights into the latest advancements in quantum technology and its implications for our future.

In this episode, Frank and Candice explore the three major players in the quantum computing realm—IBM, Google, and Microsoft—and discuss how their initiatives drive the global race for quantum supremacy. They'll tack...

In this episode of Impact Quantum, hosts Frank La Vigne and virtual co-host BAILeY welcome marketing extraordinaire Candice Gilhooly to discuss the rapidly evolving world of quantum computing. After a brief hiatus, the podcast is relaunching with a fresh perspective, expanding its reach from just engineers to the wider “quantum curious” audience. Join us as Candice shares insights from her unique background, having grown up with a father who was a pioneer in quantum computing.

Together, they dive into the potential real-world applications of quantum technology, from improving environmental monitoring and energy efficiency to challenging the traditional encr...

Stories Mentioned:

11 Top Experts: Quantum Top Trends 2023 And 2030

https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephenibaraki/2022/08/19/11-top-experts-quantum-top-trends-2023-and-2030/?sh=34b0861e69f9

China Seeks a Quantum Leap in Computing

https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-competing-us-quantum-computing-11664997892

Quantinuum Is On A Roll – 17 Significant Quantum Computing Achievements In 12 Months

https://www.forbes.com/sites/moorinsights/2022/10/06/quantinuum-is-on-a-roll--17-significant-quantum-computing-achievements-in-12-months/?sh=48295d7b301e

Quantum computer can simulate infinitely many chaotic particles

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2332201-quantum-computer-can-simulate-infinitely-many-chaotic-particles/

Frank and Andy are pleased to announce. Quantum Beltway, a group designed to bring together the best minds in engineering, quantum physics, and policy makers to discuss the next wave of innovation in Quantum Computing. 

Join the free LinkedIn group today at quantumbeltway.com. Now onto the news.

Story Links

Quantum computing

funding remains strong, but talent gap raises concern

https://www.mckinsey.de/business-functions/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/quantum-computing-funding-remains-strong-but-talent-gap-raises-concern

Psirch Becomes First

Quantum Technology Executive Search Division of Established Firm

https://thequantuminsider.com/2022/08/04/psirch-becomes-first-quantum-technology-executive-search-division-of-established-firm/

Join us at QuantumBeltway.com today. It's a free LinkedIn group to discuss quantum policy and technology.

Stories Referenced

Record-Breaking

Experiment Could Solve a Huge Challenge in Quantum Computing

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/record-breaking-experiment-could-solve-a-huge-challenge-in-quantum-computing/

Quantum-computing company D-Wave shares jump 16 per cent in NYSE debut

https://www.theregister.com/2022/08/09/dwave_goes_public/

Why Israel is moving to quantum computing

https://venturebeat.com/quantum-computing/why-israel-is-moving-to-quantum-computing/

U.S. CHIPS and Science Act: How Does It Impact Quantum?