On this episode of That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin sit down with Alexander Patrushev, Head of Product for AI/ML at Nebius, a European cloud platform focused on machine learning infrastructure. Kicking things off, we unpack the buzz around China’s fully AI-powered “Agent Hospital,” raising questions about what role AI should play in medicine. Laura also shares a personal rant about navigating the healthcare system in search of real answers.

Then, Alex joins from Luxembourg to explain what Nebius does, who it's built for, and how it helps companies tackle ML workloads. He breaks down the common mistakes teams make when launching ML projects and why success depends more on people and processes than just tech. The conversation also goes into whether companies should host their own LLMs or use pay-per-token APIs, and how to approach that decision. Looking ahead, Alex challenges the idea that AI is inherently hard and shares what businesses should really be focusing on, from smarter software to evolving hardware needs, as AI infrastructure continues to grow. It's a thoughtful, practical look at the future of AI from someone who builds the tools to power it.

Alexander Patrushev is an experienced IT leader with over 15 years in the industry, including the past six focused on artificial intelligence. He currently serves as Head of Product for AI/ML at Nebius, a European cloud platform designed for building and deploying machine learning workloads. Based in Luxembourg, Alexander is known for his practical approach to solving real-world challenges faced by AI practitioners. He’s especially focused on delivering user-centric, innovative solutions, and believes strongly in the importance of in-house R&D to drive product excellence and stay ahead in a fast-moving space.

In this episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Fredrik Nilsson, Vice President of the Americas for Axis Communications, to talk about the intersection of surveillance technology, cybersecurity, and ethical innovation.

Fredrik reflects on his rare 30-year tenure with Axis, explaining how a strong company culture and a constant focus on innovation have kept him committed. He shares his journey from Sweden to the U.S., noting how working in both regions has influenced his leadership style, bringing together Sweden’s emphasis on collaboration with the U.S. drive for growth and execution.

For listeners unfamiliar with Axis, Fredrik explains that the company pioneered the shift from analog CCTV to digital network video and continues to lead by developing open, scalable, and secure surveillance solutions. What sets Axis apart, he says, is their long-term approach to partnerships, transparency, and quality, plus a strong emphasis on ethical technology use. Looking ahead, Fredrik is excited about how AI and machine learning are transforming surveillance, not just for traditional security purposes but across sectors like retail, healthcare, and transportation. He shares how Axis is applying analytics in creative ways, from optimizing store layouts to improving patient safety in hospitals.

The conversation also tackles serious topics around cybersecurity and privacy. Fredrik acknowledges the tension between advancing surveillance capabilities and the risks they can bring. He discusses Axis’ approach to building trust with customers, through transparency, strict data handling policies, and a focus on responsible AI use. In the face of increasing threats like state-sponsored cyberattacks and deepfakes, Axis is investing heavily in secure systems and client education.

And, as a lighter note, Laura kicks things off by sharing her unique connection to Sweden: buying wildlife calendars on Kickstarter from a guy who photographs animals in his yard.

Vice President of the Americas for Axis Communications, Fredrik Nilsson oversees the company’s operations in North and South America and serves on the global management team. In his 25+ year’s at Axis, he has undertaken various roles in both Sweden and the United States and has been instrumental in leading the surveillance industry shift from analog closed-circuit television to network video. Since assuming responsibility for the Americas in 2003, revenues in the region have grown from $20M to $1B, due in part to a focus on increasing Axis' presence in the market by opening more than sixteen Axis Experience Centers throughout the region.

This week on the pod, Laura and Kevin discuss what’s shaping up to be the biggest Bitcoin event of the year: Bitcoin 2025, happening May 27–29 at The Venetian in Las Vegas. With over 30,000 attendees and 400+ speakers, it’s more than a conference - it’s a full-on Bitcoin takeover.

We are joined by Justin Doochin, one of the conference organizer. He says to expect a mix of Bitcoiners, developers, investors, policymakers, and curious newcomers. People come to network, share ideas, and get a pulse on where Bitcoin is headed. This year’s “Code & Country” track kicks off Industry Day, focusing on the intersection of policy, technology, and innovation. Laura asks if Trump will show, Justin shares that while President Donald Trump isn't on the speaker list, his sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. are confirmed to speak about capitalism, Bitcoin, and economic sovereignty. Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road, will make his first public appearance since being released from prison earlier this year. He’s set to speak at the conference, marking a significant moment for many in the Bitcoin community.

The conference aims to set a Guinness World Record for the most Bitcoin point-of-sale transactions in eight hours. It’s a bold move to showcase Bitcoin’s potential as a daily-use currency. This year's event is set to be high-energy, with a mix of serious discussions and celebratory moments. It’s a place where ideas are exchanged, and the future of Bitcoin is debated and envisioned. Laura also speculates if Bitcoin Hit $150K or $200K in 2025.

Justin is offering our listeners a 30% discount on all Bitcoin 2025 passes. Use the code: TECHPOD30 at checkout: https://bm.b.tc/TECHPOD30.

For more details and to register for the conference, visit the official conference site: https://b.tc/conference/2025.