Torras.ai

Welcome and Introduction

Hello, and welcome to the Torras AI Podcast. I’m Jordi Torras, and today I’m joined by Roger Casals, a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO of Plazah. Roger’s extensive experience spans more than 20 years, with several successful exits, including acquisitions by Symantec and Informatica. He's also a strong advisor and investor in high-profile tech ventures. Thank you, Roger, for being here today!

Identifying the Right Time to Exit

Jordi: Roger, you've been involved in multiple exits. How do you know when it’s the right time to sell?

Roger: It’s a tough decision. There’s a balance between growth and the resources needed to continue that growth. When it’s challenging to maintain momentum, or if competitors are heavily funded, it might be time to consider selling. For example, with PasswordBank, we faced funding challenges compared to competitors, which influenced the decision to exit.

Innovation in Startups vs. Corporations

Jordi: You've worked in startups and large corporations. How do these environments differ in terms of fostering innovation?

Roger: Startups rely on innovation for survival—without it, they fail. In contrast, corporations often struggle to innovate due to challenges like internal politics, bureaucracy, and legacy systems. Startups don’t need a Chief Innovation Officer because innovation is their lifeline. For large companies, however, innovation can be hindered, especially when dealing with an extensive installed base and conflicting internal priorities.

Integrating AI into Core Business Strategies

Jordi: AI is transforming business decision-making. How should companies approach AI integration?

Roger: AI is an incredible tool for organizing and summarizing information, but it’s not infallible, especially in areas requiring truth and critical thinking. There’s a risk of over-relying on AI, which can dampen human creativity and analytical skills. Businesses should use AI to complement, not replace, human insight.

Trends in Data Privacy and Cybersecurity

Jordi: Given your experience in data security, what trends do you see in privacy and cybersecurity?

Roger: Deepfakes are particularly concerning. The risk they pose to the authenticity of information is significant. Detecting and mitigating deepfake threats will be crucial. Additionally, cybersecurity trends like Zero Trust Architecture and security-by-design models, like the Trust Authority we proposed at Symantec, could create a foundation for a more secure digital environment.

Building Resilient and Future-Proof Businesses

Jordi: With rapid tech changes, what advice do you have for entrepreneurs building resilient businesses?

Roger: I follow the "Universal Law of the Pendulum," which reminds us that innovation cycles shift. Today, focus is returning to physical innovations—bioengineering, energy storage, robotics—areas grounded in tangible science. Software's impact is vast, but the next frontier is in the physical and applied sciences. Entrepreneurs should look for opportunities here.

The Future of AI

Jordi: What do you think AI will bring in the future?

Roger: AI is already transforming fields like education, medicine, and transportation. Over time, AI will impact professions traditionally associated with white-collar work, which will create ethical questions around access to AI and its impact on social inequality.

How to Connect

Jordi: Roger, what’s the best way for our audience to contact you?

Roger: LinkedIn is the easiest. I'll include a link to Roger’s profile on my blog for anyone interested in reaching out or learning more about his insights on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Closing Remarks

Jordi: Thank you so much, Roger, for sharing your insights and experiences. And to our audience, stay tuned for more exciting conversations on the Torras AI Podcast. Have a great day!