Industrial AI Podcast

How AI agents and new mindsets are transforming quality, speed, and leadership in industry. Discover the next wave of industrial evolution.

In this episode, I sit down with Nathan Gruber, co-founder and CEO of Manex AI, to explore how autonomy is reshaping the way leading organizations operate. We dig deep into the challenges of legacy manufacturing models, the rise of agent-based AI systems, and why speed and feedback loops are the new competitive edge. Nathan shares his firsthand experience at BMW, the genesis of Manex AI, and how their solutions are closing the gap between customer feedback and engineering...

From leaderboard battles to autonomous labs—rethinking industrial AI, physical data, and the future of how we think.

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of industrial AI—from the fierce competition on model leaderboards to the real-world impact of open versus closed AI systems. We question whether it’s necessary to follow every new model or if specialization is the future, using examples from industrial time series and the latest in material science. Alongside our guest Alexander Hammer from Dunia, we explore how AI and autonomous labs are accelerating the discovery of next-generation materials, bridging the ga...

Exploring how agentic and physics AI are remaking engineering. Discover the shift from code to orchestration—and what it means for industry.

In this episode, I sit down with Bastiaan Oud, CEO of Simcon, to unpack the seismic changes AI is bringing to computer-aided engineering. We dive into how agentic and physics-based AI are revolutionizing everything from injection molding simulation to the very roles of engineers and software developers. Bastiaan shares real-world insights on shifting from traditional coding to orchestrating intelligent agents and how this is transforming both product development and organizational structures. If you’ve ever wondered what happ...

Explore how AI and safety can work hand in hand. From robotics to standards, we uncover the future of industrial safety.

In this episode, we dive into the evolving relationship between AI and safety in the industrial world. We discuss how NVIDIA is shaping new standards for physical AI and why safety is not just a requirement, but a value driver in modern automation. You'll hear insights from Ricardo Mariani of NVIDIA on the importance of end-to-end safety frameworks, the role of simulation, and the integration of AI into robotics and machinery. We also explore the latest industry moves...

What the Anthropic ban means for Europe and the next wave of industrial AI. Can Europe catch up or is the game over?

In this episode, we dig into the recent Anthropic ban and what it signals for the global AI landscape. I connect with Jakob Tomczak to get an insider’s perspective from Silicon Valley and explore how this move impacts European companies, innovation, and the future of AI ecosystems.

We also share firsthand impressions of the latest LLMs, debate whether true AI revolutions are on the horizon, and discuss the challenges Europe faces in scaling up...

Discover how agentic AI is reshaping time series forecasting and empowering business users. Dive into next-gen analytics with OctOpus.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of autonomous AI for data science with Doudou BA, CEO and founder of Octopus. I explore how Octopus is transforming raw data into actionable business decisions using advanced time series foundation models and agentic AI. We discuss the unique reasoning capabilities of Octopus, its intuitive approach for non-technical users, and how it stands apart from traditional AutoML solutions. Along the way, I share insights from VivaTech in Paris, including thought-provoking moments...

Discover how domain expertise and AI merge to solve complex plant problems – no coding required. Can experience be replaced by intelligence?

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Duncan, a chemical engineer who built an agentic manufacturing troubleshooting assistant – without any coding background. We dive into the real-world challenges of process manufacturing and how AI is transforming the way plant issues are solved. Scott shares his journey from hands-on troubleshooting to leveraging large language models, knowledge graphs, and real-time data for smarter, faster problem-solving. We also debate the future of domain expertise in an AI-driven world and what it m...

From data silos to autonomous agents—discover how AI is reshaping engineering workflows. Insights, stories, and the tools driving the next wave.

We just returned from three inspiring days at AI in the Alps, and in this episode, we dive into the most exciting breakthroughs and honest challenges facing industrial AI today. I share my firsthand impressions of revolutionary tools like TiRex-2, and we unpack what agentic AI really means for engineering, from breaking down data silos to transforming anomaly detection. Alongside Stefan Suwelack from Renumics, we discuss why skepticism has given way to optimism, how data infrastructure is fi...

Discover how TiRex-2 is revolutionizing time series AI for industry. Multivariate, streaming, and more—get the inside story.

In this episode, I sit down with Levente Zolyomi, a leading PhD researcher at NXAI, to unpack the next evolution in time series AI: TiRex-2. We explore how TiRex-2 builds on its predecessor by handling complex multivariate data and streaming scenarios, opening new frontiers for industrial forecasting. Levente shares the story behind TiRex-2’s architecture, its breakthrough capabilities, and what sets it apart from transformer-based models like Kronos. I ask the questions you’re thinking—about zero-shot forecasting, synthetic data, and real-wor...

How AI is transforming every step of the industrial customer journey – from first inquiry to predictive maintenance. Discover the future with us.

In this episode, we dive deep into how AI is revolutionizing the entire industrial customer journey. We explore how large language models and digital twins are reshaping everything from initial customer inquiries to spare parts management and predictive maintenance. I’m joined by Jan Seyler and Werner Reichelt from Festo, who share firsthand insights on integrating AI with engineering tools, orchestrating multi-agent systems, and bridging the gap between digital sales and real-world manufacturing. Together, we discuss the chal...

Meet Boris Scharinger and explore the real-world journey of AI in industry. Why expectations must meet reality for true transformation.

Our guest is Boris Scharinger from Siemens. He wrote an interesting book "Industrial AI: From Pilot to Profit" and in this episode, we sit down with him. He is a leading voice in industrial AI and we uncover what it really takes to move from flashy AI pilots to solutions that deliver real value on the shop floor and in product engineering. We dig into the challenges of bridging proof-of-concept and production, the unique demands of industrial environments, and...

Inside the push for adaptable, reasoning robots and the future of physical AI. Discover what’s driving real change in robotics.

In this episode, I sit down at the Agile Robots headquarters in Munich with Laurenz von Czettritz to dive deep into the evolving world of robotics and AI. We explore why NVIDIA’s frameworks dominate the industry, what it really takes to build new physical AI solutions, and how foundation models are reshaping automation. Laurenz shares how his team is developing next-generation AI for robotics, from building their own models to tackling unique industrial data challenges. We discuss the...

From manual chaos to smart automation—inside the future of glass industry workflows. Discover how AI is transforming custom orders.

In this episode, I sit down with Georg Katzlinger to explore the surprising complexity of the flat glass industry and the unique challenges it faces. We dive into how AI solutions are revolutionizing the way custom glass orders are processed, from deciphering handwritten requests to integrating with legacy ERP systems. Georg shares his journey from engineering to AI entrepreneurship, revealing why deterministic, human-in-the-loop automation is essential for manufacturers. I ask the tough questions on accuracy, implementation, and industry-specific hurdles, gi...

Can cutting-edge AI truly transform factories? We explore real-world challenges, success stories, and the future of intelligent automation.

In this episode, we dive deep into the promise and pitfalls of industrial AI with hands-on experts from a unique Volkswagen-Siemens joint venture. We challenge the hype around humanoid robots, discuss the practical impact of AI on factory design and operations, and uncover what truly drives value on the shop floor. Our guests share candid insights on scaling AI solutions, the role of synthetic data, and why safety and trust remain at the core of industrial automation. Join us as we...

Discover how local policy enforcement is reshaping industrial AI safety. What happens when your smart machines lose their connection?

In this episode, I sit down with Steven Yates, CTO and co-founder of Federant, to dive deep into the urgent need for runtime governance in edge AI. Drawing on decades of experience in embedded systems and PLC design, Steven reveals why the shift to the edge demands more than just powerful inference—it requires robust, local authority to keep operations safe when connectivity falters. We unpack real-world incidents where lack of governance led to costly mishaps, and explore how new op...

Unlocking value beyond APIs—where industry creativity, killer apps, and agentic engineering collide. Are we ready for the future?

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of industrial AI, exploring why simply offering an API is no longer enough for true business value. We reconnect with leading minds behind recent billion-euro deals and discuss the journey from foundational models to real-world industrial impact. Our conversation with Davy Demeyer spotlights the creativity gap in industry, the challenges of automation standards, and what it takes to build the next killer application. We share firsthand insights from pioneers, reflect on...

A special episode postponed for breaking news—find out why you won't want to miss Friday's reveal.

It's Thursday morning and I know you're expecting a fresh episode, but today brings a twist—I have exclusive news that can't go live just yet. We're delaying our usual release by one day to bring you something truly special and timely. In the meantime, I invite you to consider joining us at this year's top AI events or reaching out for more information. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prepare to share these exciting updates with you. I look...

Can generative AI finally democratize industrial design? We explore with Dr. Christian Heining breakthroughs, challenges, and the future of CAD with AI.

We have a new podcast partner - please welcome NXAI!

In this episode, I dive deep into the evolving world of AI-driven CAD and CAM with Dr. Christian Heining. We unpack why generative AI is capturing the attention of industrial designers and whether the latest integrations—like Anthropic’s connector for Autodesk Fusion—are truly game-changing or just another step on a long journey.

Dr. Heining shares real-world experiments, candid takes on current limita...

Unpacking the buzz, the business, and the challenges of authentic industrial AI innovation. Is the industry losing its edge?

In this episode, we dive straight into the heart of the industrial AI landscape – beyond flashy headlines and Instagram-worthy trade shows. We tackle the uncomfortable truths behind 'white label' solutions, the real value (or lack thereof) in APIs, and why simply following the hype won't cut it for true innovation. We share our candid impressions from Hannover Messe, exploring the tension between substance and showmanship, and what it means for the future of industrial-grade AI. Plus, we sit down with Dr...

From Swiss chocolate to global factories, discover how AI is turning industrial data into real manufacturing intelligence.

In this episode, I sit down with Bernard, co-founder of Ethan AI, to explore the seismic shift happening as machines move from simply reacting to truly understanding their own processes. We dive into how knowledge graphs, causal AI, and computer vision are transforming manufacturing—from chocolate factories in Switzerland to global giants like Siemens and Bosch.

We discuss the real impact of connecting siloed industrial data, the journey from correlation to causation, and what it means for the people on th...

Explore how real-world data, memory, and multi-modal AI are shaping the next wave of robotics. Dive into the future with us.

In this episode, we dig deep into the evolving landscape of industrial AI, from April Fool’s pranks to real advances in robotics and automation. We break down how the line between hype and reality is blurring, and why it’s more challenging than ever to separate fact from fiction in the age of agentic AI.

We welcome Jonas Messner from Neura Robotics to unpack how their 'robot gym' is collecting real-world data, why new forms of m...

Why Data Leakage Threatens AI Benchmarks—and How We're Fixing It. Discover the future of reliable model evaluation.

In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges facing time series AI model leaderboards, from hidden information leakage to the complexities of benchmarking foundation models. I sit down with Marcel Meyer to unpack why traditional approaches fall short and how our new TS Arena leaderboard is setting a new standard for fair, future-proof evaluation.

We explore the pitfalls that plague current benchmarks, the surprising ways data contamination can skew results, and the innovative pre-registration protocol we've developed to ke...

From shop floor autonomy to data-driven disruption – exploring the breakthroughs shaping tomorrow’s manufacturing. Discover how AI is transforming precision machining.

In this episode, we dive into the cutting edge of industrial AI, from the latest advancements in large language model distillation to the transformative power of AI agents in manufacturing. I sit down with Tanmay Aggarwal, CEO of Lambda Function, for a deep conversation about autonomous CNC programming, real-time shop floor integration, and why memory and causal inference matter for the next wave of physical AI. We also unpack industry trends – from SD card AI accelerators to Europe’s strate...

Exploring the real impact of GenAI and agents in industrial automation. Are we ready for hands-off production?

In this episode, I sit down with Tobias, a robotics and automation expert, to unpack what AI agents and generative AI mean for the future of industrial automation. We explore how combining human expertise with advanced agents can optimize production cycles, break down technological silos, and open new possibilities for greenfield automation projects. From hands-on case studies to the hurdles of legacy systems, we dig into what works today, what doesn’t, and where the next breakthroughs might come from.

I...

Explore how AI transforms hidden expertise into actionable insights. From Festo to future factories, discover the new era of intelligent search.

In this episode, we dive into the real-world impact of AI-powered knowledge platforms for industry. We sit down with Jakub from Zeta Alpha to uncover how companies like Festo are leveraging advanced search, RAG, and agentic AI to unlock decades of expertise buried in documents and data silos. We share practical examples, discuss integration challenges, and debate the future of specialized versus generic AI in the industrial landscape. You'll hear why trust, customization, and domain focus are key...

Jakub Tomczak on: Why neurosymbolic approaches and domain knowledge could reshape the AI race. Is Europe poised to lead this new era?

In this episode, we dive into the resurgence of world models in AI and explore why the industry is revisiting neurosymbolic approaches. We challenge the dominance of data-centric models and discuss how combining symbolic knowledge with machine learning could unlock new breakthroughs. Our conversation highlights Europe's unique strengths and potential as a leader in this evolving landscape. We also address the importance of domain expertise and mathematics, and question whether the current AI race is stifling real...

Why imperfect twins may shape robotics' future. From CNC startups to the Coca-Cola of AI, we rethink automation.

In this episode, we dive into the evolving world of industrial AI, exploring everything from CNC innovation in Tel Aviv to the surprising rise of digital cousins over traditional digital twins. We unpack how startups and established players alike are reimagining automation, robotics, and the very nature of intelligent agents on the factory floor. Along the way, we discuss the parallels between LLMs and the invention of refrigeration, ask who will become the 'Coca-Cola' of AI, and reflect on the real...

How AI revolutionizes manufacturing, from press shop to global scale. Discover the inside story of Audi’s industrial transformation.

In this episode, I sit down with Andre Sagodi, a manufacturing and innovation expert at Audi, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the car production process.

We dive into Audi’s journey from piloting AI-based crack detection in sheet metal parts to scaling these solutions across multiple global sites. Andre shares practical insights on overcoming challenges like data consistency, model scalability, and workforce collaboration, all while aligning with Audi’s strategic vision.

Together, we discuss what i...

From AI-driven personal agents to revolutionizing drug discovery—exploring what’s shaking up industrial AI and chemistry.

In this episode, we dive into the seismic shifts happening in industrial AI, from the so-called 'SaaS-mageddon' disrupting established software models to the rise of AI-powered agents that promise to redefine productivity. We share first-hand insights on how large language models and open-source projects are reshaping the landscape, and what this means for the future of industry solutions.

We then turn to the frontier of pharmaceutical innovation with Stanisław Jastrzębski, CTO & Co-Founder from molecule.one, who reveals how deep l...

Meet Norbert Jung, CEO of Bosch Connected Industry. We tackle the challenges of scaling innovation, the future of lights-out factories, and why Europe's workforce transformation is both a necessity and an opportunity.

In this episode, I sit down with Norbert Jung, CEO of Bosch Connected Industry, to explore the evolving landscape of manufacturing co-intelligence. We dive into how AI agents and data are reshaping factories, why human expertise remains irreplaceable, and what 'industrial grade' really means in this new era. Norbert shares practical examples from Bosch's own production lines, debunks common myths, and explains how semantic data and agentic...

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.

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 M...

Discover how inline AI transforms manufacturing, boosts robustness, and redefines European efficiency. Precision meets innovation in real-world production.

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 synthe...

A few months ago we interviewed Albert van Breemen and he presented his cucumber robot. Now they developed an industrial solution.

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, doma...

Discover how digital knowledge workers are transforming manufacturing floors. Explore the future of hybrid workforces with AI agents.

In this episode, I sit 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 empo...

What does it take to build Europe's next AI powerhouse? Discover the race for a billion.

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...

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 broa...

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...

Explore how synthetic sound data is reshaping robotics, manufacturing, and the future of industrial AI. Hear the next frontier.

Thanks for listening. We welcome suggestions for topics, criticism and a few stars on Apple, Spotify and Co.

We thank our partner SIEMENS

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...

Discover how engineering, simulation, and AI converge to shape tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Why combining math and machine learning changes everything.

In this episode, I sit down once again with Professor Oliver Niggemann to unravel the world of numerical machine learning—where traditional engineering meets cutting-edge AI. We explore real-world projects from diagnosing the International Space Station to designing safer bridges, smarter batteries, and even optimizing biodiversity. Oliver breaks down how fusing symbolic knowledge and neural networks is revolutionizing simulation, design, and problem-solving across industries.

If you’ve ever wondered how AI can speed up material discovery or what t...

Exploring digital sovereignty, world models, and the new AI battleground. Dive into the race shaping tomorrow’s robotics. In this episode, we dig deep into the evolving landscape of industrial AI, from billion-dollar cloud partnerships in Europe to the fierce debate over digital sovereignty. We break down what sets 'sovereign by contract' apart from 'sovereign by origin,' and why this matters for companies navigating global AI strategies. We’re joined by Professor Stratis Gavves from the University of Amsterdam to unpack the world of robotics models and the critical role of physics-informed AI. Alongside the latest industry news—like SAP’s...