Under the Surface

About Under the Surface

"Under the Surface" unpacks the intricate layers of modern and cool tech. It focusses on the blend of tech and human interaction in business and our personal lives. Each episode aims to explore the hidden details behind different yet interconnected digital and AI innovations—from chip to cloud and through to AI. Each episode is hosted by Rob Quickenden [Microsoft MVP and CTO at Cisilion] with special guests (product leads, vendors, friends, and MVPs) to boldly go beyond the tech, to explore the facts and discover what really powers our rapidly evolving and connected world.

Publisher

Rob Quickenden

Category

technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Apr 2025

Latest episode

19 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   19 Aug 2026

   Copilot is Changing Fast - Agents, Skills, Models, Uses

   I'm joined again by fellow MVP Ami DIamond. Copilot is shifting fast, and if you're still treating it like one tool, you're already behind. In this episode, Rob Quickenden and Ami Diamond break down the new reality: a platform of models, agents, skills, governance, and pricing changes that are forcing teams to rethink how work gets done. We compare Co-Work with Microsoft 365 Copilot across real workflows, from multi-step research and Excel modeling to PowerPoint creation, SharePoint agents, and brand-aware content generation. we cover a lot of ground in this episode including: Why "shadow AI" is becoming the new enterprise risk, and how governance is catching up How Microsoft's agent builder, Agent 365, and SharePoint-based agents are changing everyday work Why simple tasks should often stay in Copilot chat, while complex ones may justify Cowork What "auto" mode really means when multiple models, including Microsoft and third-party options, are in play How Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and SharePoint are quietly becoming more powerful, more personalized, and more contextual Model orchestration, cost control, and the need for better guidance so users know which tool to use for which job. How costs for different tasks in metered services like Cowork vary across different models, showing how output quality, speed, and pricing can vary dramatically depending on how the work is structured. This episode also goes deeper than features. We surfaces the bigger business problem beneath the AI excitement where many organisations are trying to bolt AI onto outdated processes instead of redesigning the work itself creating risk, confusion, unnecessary spend, and missed ROI - especially when data quality, permissions, and knowledge management are not in order. If you want to understand where Microsoft is heading, what’s genuinely useful today, and how to avoid expensive mistakes while still moving fast, this is essential listening, especially if you're responsible for adoption, governance, productivity, or getting real value from AI inside Microsoft 365.

2. 

   6 Jun 2026

   Microsoft Build 2026 - From Copilot to Autopilot.

   In this Episode, I speak with Tammy Briggs, a Microsoft MVP for Power Apps and Copilot Studio. We explore the transformative shift from Copilot to Autopilot. This episode dives into how organisations can harness AI as a true partner, emphasising control and governance as the keys to scalable innovation. We talk about Microsoft's Chip to Cloud approach to AI, their new edge AI machine (Surface Laptop Ultra) and what organizations need to know). We discuss practical strategies for managing AI risks, ensuring security, and driving efficiency. Perfect for tech leaders and innovators eager to stay ahead in the AI revolution. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your organization and unlock AI's full potential.

3. 

   17 May 2026

   Unleashing the Power of Skills and Agents in AI

   Imagine having AI that not only understands your data but can orchestrate complex tasks, create content, and even manage your organizational knowledge — all seamlessly integrated within your systems. In this episode, I (Rob Quickenden) and fellow MVP Ami Diamond pull back the curtain on how the pace of change in AI and new dimensions Microsoft Copilot is moving into continue to reshape productivity, tackle AI security and digital employee management, and leverage the latest multi-modal approach to multi-step co-work and decision-making at an unprecedented pace. Whether you're a technophile eager to harness the latest tools or a business leader trying to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation unlocks practical insights on the new AI landscape. Ami and Rob share behind-the-scenes stories of how Copilot innovations like Claude and GPT models are not just fancy features, but strategic assets transforming how organizations work — from automating workflows to creating intelligent agents that understand and act on complex instructions. Discover how Microsoft’s platform approach, model choices, and skill-based AI are removing silos, boosting collaboration, and reducing complexity in enterprise AI. We break down concepts like agents versus skills, model orchestration, and the importance of trust and governance - plus tangible tips on integrating AI into your organisation responsibly. The stakes are clear: organizations that understand and leverage these tools now will lead in productivity, security, and innovation. Those that don’t risk falling behind. This isn’t just about AI for automation — it’s about creating a new way to delegate human tasks to intelligent systems, freeing you to focus on what truly matters. This episode offers a compelling glimpse into a future where AI does more than assist—it orchestrates, enhances, and elevates our work. Stay curious, think differently, and prepare to see your organisation through a new lens. The next wave of productivity is here. Episode 10 - Recorded 10th May 2026

4. 

   23 Mar 2026

   Microsoft 365 E7, Agent 365 and Work IQ

   Episode 9 - Recorded: Episode 9 March 9th, 2026 In this insightful episode, I speak with Gareth Bleasdale from Microsoft about the transformative impact of AI, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and the future of autonomous agents in the workplace. Discover how these technologies are reshaping productivity, security, and organisational workflows with real business context (Work IQ), how we secure and govern agents with Agent 365 and also all about the New Frontier SKU Microsoft 365 E7 (the super suite). Topics Microsoft 365 E7 - and its enterprise value Work IQ and contextual AI understanding Agent 365 - Governance and security of AI agents The evolution of autonomous agents in the workplace The importance of trust and responsible AI How AI and Work IQ Are Transforming Business Operations Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Microsoft Innovations 02:49 - The Impact of AI on Work Dynamics 04:42 - Understanding Microsoft 365 E7 Copilot 07:15- Work IQ: The Future of AI in Business 10:32- Navigating AI Tools and Compliance 13:32- The Evolution of User Interaction with AI 16:29 - Transforming Work Processes with AI 18:48 - The Future of Autonomous Agents in Work 22:19 - Empowering Users with AI Agents 25:37- The Evolution of Microsoft 365 and Copilot 28:41 - The Role of AI in Enhancing Productivity 31:19 - AGENT 365: Governance and Control of AI Agents 34:10- Navigating the Future of Work with AI 38:04 - Embracing Change and Continuous Learning 45:00 - ENDBlog Link: https://robquickenden.blog (https://robquickenden.blog)

5. 

   13 Jan 2026

   Episode 8 -What is new in Copilot ( 2026 ) with MVP Ami Diamond

   Summary In my first podcast of 2026, I talk to MVP Ami Diamond and discuss the evolving landscape of Microsoft Copilot and its impact on productivity and technology. We explore the role of MVPs in the tech community, the innovations brought by AI, and the future of AI models and integration. The conversation highlights the practical applications of Copilot in business, the importance of voice interaction, and the ongoing evolution of AI technology. Listeners gain insights into how these tools can enhance everyday life and improve business processes. We cover: - The MVP community - gratitude, sharing knowledge - Evolution of Copilot - How AI can be beneficial for various users, including those with disabilities. - Integration of different AI models within Microsoft products - Voice interaction and usecases - New Features in Copilot you may not know (yet) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the MVP Community 02:38 Exploring Microsoft Copilot and AI Integration 05:22 The Role of AI in Everyday Productivity 08:14 Personalszation and User Interaction with AI 11:02 Comparing AI Models and Their Applications 14:00 The Future of AI in Microsoft Products 16:46 Understanding AI's Reasoning and User Experience 19:39 The Impact of AI on Data Analysis and Reporting 22:06 Enhancing Excel and PowerPoint with AI 24:50 Final Thoughts on AI's Evolution and Future 31:16 Harnessing AI Tools Effectively 32:42 Exploring Copilot Features 33:31 The Power of Pages and Notebooks 34:19 Innovations in Audio and Voice Technology 36:42 The Evolution of Voice Interaction 38:04 Understanding Copilot Actions 40:13 Navigating Consumer and Business AI Solutions 41:54 The Future of AI in Shopping 44:16 Enhancing User Experience with AI 45:20 The Rapid Evolution of AI Technology 46:15 Leveraging Custom Features in Copilot 47:40 More Copilot Features you need to know about 53:55 END :-)

6. 

   9 Dec 2025

   Copilot Updates - Post Ignite 2025

   Following Ignite 2025, Manesh Mistry and I discuss the rapid evolution of AI, focusing on advances with Microsoft's Copilot and its implications for businesses. In this podcast we explore some of the newest features coming to Microsoft 365 Copilot including GPT-5.2, Voice mode and video with Sora 2 Video. We also discuss the growing develops of Agentic AI, and how frontier firms are embracing the concept. We talk about the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in terms of security, governance, and how Agent 365 and Entra ID promises to help secure and govern such agents.

7. 

   6 Oct 2025

   Microsoft Copilot: Looking at how far we have come

   In this eposide I am joined by Manesh Minstry, a digitial artist and Microsoft 365 Copilot advisor,menror and prompting guru. We talk about the incredible pace of change, innovation,new features and new model support in Microsoft 365 Copilot. We cover the challenges around adoption, dispell some myths and re enforce Microsoft Enterprise Data Protection, Responsible AI and choice available to consumers and business prodessionals across every role and every industry. Tune in,to see how far it has come so far and how fast the innovation is coming.. 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 02:22 The Evolution of Copilot Technology 05:17 Copilot Chat and Its Importance 07:35 Security and Compliance in AI Tools 10:19 The Role of Context in Copilot Usage 13:09 Voice Interaction with Copilot 15:34 Practical Applications of Copilot in Daily Life 17:40 Enhancing Prompting Techniques 19:53 The Future of AI Memory and Personalization 25:11 Utilizing AI for Personalization 28:51 Exploring Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI Models 34:05 The Evolution of AI Models 37:13 Harnessing Microsoft First Party Agents 40:51 The Future of AI Agents and Orchestration 44:19 Recent Developments in AI and Tools

8. 

   29 Jul 2025

   Surface - The Next Fronter - ARM, Intel, 5G and Hybrid AI

   In this episode, Rob Quickenden (Microsoft MVP) and Microsoft's Caleb Johnson discuss the evolution of Surface devices, the impact of technology on productivity, and the integration of AI and 5G in modern computing. They explore the journey of Surface from its inception to the current lineup, highlighting innovations in design, functionality, and user experience. We talk about the huge innovations and importance of battery life, security, always on AI and the future of Windows on ARM and of course the continued importance of Intel in the Surface ecosystem. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:20 - The Evolution of Microsoft Surface 11:25 - Recent Surface Innovations and Announcements 14:41 - Surface Family Lineup 17:23 - Silicon, Battery Life and Windows on ARM 22:45 - The Evolution of ARM in Windows Devices 25:26 - Future of ARM and Intel: A Consumer Perspective 27:53 - AI Integration and Productivity Enhancements 30:06 - The Impact of AI on Device Functionality 34:02 - Data Privacy and Security in Technology 35:16 - The Versatility of Modern Devices 38:59- Innovation in the Surface Ecosystem

9. 

   14 Jul 2025

   Windows in the Cloud - Is this the future of End User Compute

   In this episode of "Under the Surface," I am joined by Microsofts' Christian Brinkoff from the Windows Cloud Engineering team. We explore the evolution of Windows from Microsoft original vision for a Windows device on every desk and in every home to the most recent evolution of Windows in the Cloud with Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. We look at how Microsoft's innovations are transforming the way we work, with insights into the future of Cloud PCs, AI integration, and the seamless experience of Windows 365. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an IT pro, this episode look at the future innovation and direction of Windows.

10. 

    13 May 2025

    Maximising Copilot Potential: The Effectiveness of Change Management

    In this episode, Rob Quickenden engages with adoption and change consultants Mike Blair and James Webb to discuss the critical role of change management in maximising the benefits and potential of AI technologies like Microsoft Copilot. They explore the cultural shifts required for effective AI integration, user reactions to AI tools, and the importance of trust and ethics in AI utilisation. The conversation emphasises the need for organisations to understand user needs, address objections, and implement effective change management strategies to ensure successful technology adoption and show cases the difference between no change management and the right change management.

11. 

    22 Apr 2025

    History of Microsoft Surface

    In this episode, we talk to Microsoft's Chauncey Larsen in Redmond. We discuss the origins of Surface, innovation of Surface and Windows and Chip to Cloud Security as we explore the finer details of Microsoft's unique place in the Windows Eco systems of owning and securing the Windows environment, from firmware, DCFI, Secure Boot, TPM, Pluton Processor and Windows Hello for Business.

12. 

    16 Apr 2025

    Why Windows 365

    My first Podcast in the Under The Surface, I am live from Microsoft MVP Summit in Redmond, Washington, talking to Microsoft's Megan Gremmell about Windows in the Cloud, Windows 365, AVD and the new Windows 365 Link device. We talk market, why we need it, and the value proposition around

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.