Advertise on podcast: IAA MOBILITY Visionary Club

In the fifth and final episode of our Visionary Club Special Series—recorded live at IAA MOBILITY 2025—we sit down with Stephanie May (Director at Women Automotive Network), Mandy Böbinger (Managing Director for Czech Republic & Slovakia at Renault Trucks), Sabine Scheunert (Managing Director for Central Europe at Dassault Systèmes), and Tania Khasal (Chief Cyber Security Governance Engineer at CARIAD) to discuss how the automotive industry must reinvent itself as an employer of the future. Together, they explore the strategies needed to attract, develop, and retain talent during this era of profound transformation. The conversation centers not just on traditional skill sets, but on mindset, adaptability, and the willingness to challenge and rethink established knowledge. Our speakers share concrete insights into reskilling programs, new leadership approaches, and the vital role of corporate culture in an industry shifting from a classic manufacturing sector to a tech-driven ecosystem. Furthermore, they discuss how companies can boost their appeal—especially to the next generation of talent seeking purpose, impact, and creative freedom. A special focus is placed on empowering female professionals, the importance of networking, and how diversity and collaboration can become true competitive advantages.

In the fourth episode of our Visionary Club Special Series, recorded live during IAA MOBILITY 2025, Hannah Boomgarden (Open Innovation Manager at Plug and Play) moderates an engaging discussion on the future of urban mobility. Her guests are Anna Buchmann, CEO and Co-Founder of NOCA, and Frank Aldorf, Co-Founder and CIO of LEMO Future. Together, they explore strategic growth opportunities, investment potential, and emerging business models in the rapidly evolving world of micromobility and the bicycle industry. During the conversation, the speakers discuss why bicycles and e-bikes are becoming increasingly important for sustainable cities and how the market is shifting from traditional product-based business models toward data-driven platform ecosystems. Anna Buchmann explains how transparent and structured product data across the entire supply chain can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and help companies future-proof their operations. Frank Aldorf, meanwhile, shares insights on brand strategy and innovation in the cycling market—and why successful mobility solutions require more than just a great product. They also depend on a broader ecosystem that includes services, community engagement, and digital platforms. The discussion also touches on investment and partnerships within the micromobility sector. The guests examine how startups can collaborate with established companies, why strategic partnerships are essential for growth, and what role venture investors play in transforming the industry. A key focus is the question of how cities must be designed and organized in the future so that micromobility becomes the preferred mode of transport for short distances.

In the third special episode of our Visionary Club podcast, recorded live at IAA MOBILITY 2025, Douglas Bolduc (Managing Editor at Automotive News Europe), Joohyung (JH) Lee (Corporate EVP and Head of the Mobile Display Business at Samsung Display), Geoffrey Bouquot (Chief Technology Officer at Audi AG), and Amy McLaughlin (President, Advanced Materials and Transportation Product Platform at 3M) explore how automotive development can keep pace with the speed of digital transformation. Together, they examine how development cycles across the industry have dramatically accelerated—and why close, early collaboration between OEMs and suppliers now determines market success or failure. From OLED displays redefining the digital user experience to materials that intelligently integrate hardware and software, and AI-driven development partnerships, the episode highlights how 3M, Samsung, and Audi are shaping a connected mobility ecosystem for the future. What will customers expect ten years from now? That question is at the heart of the conversation, offering surprising insights into the strategic and technological decisions being made by some of the industry’s leading minds. Join us for a wide-ranging discussion on multisensory experiences, software-defined vehicles, sustainable materials, and the power of collaboration.

In the second episode of our exclusive Visionary Club winter special series, recorded live during the IAA Conference at IAA MOBILITY 2025, we welcome Peter Schiefer, President and CEO of the Automotive Division at Infineon Technologies AG, and Barbara Busse, foresight expert and speaker at Future+You GmbH & Co. KG. Together, they explore how advanced semiconductor technologies are becoming a decisive enabler of innovation across the mobility ecosystem — from higher efficiency and performance to resilience, safety, and sustainability. The conversation dives into the strategic role of chips in modern vehicles, the growing importance of system thinking, and why long-term foresight is essential in an industry shaped by rapid technological change and global dependencies. From power electronics and energy efficiency to future-proof mobility architectures, this episode highlights how hardware innovation, strategic vision, and technological foresight are coming together to shape a more intelligent and sustainable transportation ecosystem. A must-listen for anyone looking to understand how the smallest components are driving some of the biggest transformations in mobility.

In the first episode of our exclusive winter special episodes, we welcome André Bechtold, President of SAP Industries and Experience at SAP SE, and Bradley Lord, Team Representative and Chief Communications Officer of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. Together, they offer fascinating insights into the fast-paced world of Formula 1 — and reveal how data-driven decision-making, artificial intelligence, and precise resource management can make all the difference when you’re competing for mere milliseconds. From navigating the FIA cost cap to smart planning of component production and managing 1.5 terabytes of sensor data each race weekend, this conversation highlights how technological innovation on the track and in manufacturing seamlessly comes together. Discover how the partnership between SAP and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS is creating a new blueprint for digital efficiency and intelligent transformation — not only for motorsports, but also for OEMs, suppliers, and manufacturing companies around the world.

In the fifteenth episode of the Visionary Club Podcast, our host Sarah Harman welcomes Dirk Adelmann, CEO of smart Europe GmbH. Dirk shares fascinating insights into the brand’s transformation — from its shift to an all-electric lineup and its streamlined business model to the unique German-Chinese joint venture structure between Mercedes-Benz and Geely. Together, they discuss how innovation, design excellence, and customer feedback come together to shape a future-oriented approach to mobility. Dirk also talks about smart’s pioneering role in digital services, over-the-air updates, the integration of artificial intelligence in vehicles, and the development of the new #2 — a modern reimagining of the classic two-seater designed for the urban era.

In the fifth live episode of the IAA MOBILITY VISIONARY CLUB at IAA MOBILITY, host Sarah Harman speaks with Christopher Dehnel, Partner at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Christopher Dehnel shares his in-depth perspective on the current state of the automotive industry. He describes the industry’s transformation as a “triathlon” — with electrification, artificial intelligence, and autonomous driving as the three disciplines that must be mastered simultaneously, requiring courage, endurance, and a willingness to embrace radical change. Together, we discuss the innovation pressure from Chinese competitors, the comeback of European OEMs, and the strategic importance of bold partnerships and investments across the entire value chain. Find out why, according to Dehnel, embracing imperfection, moving fast, and driving cultural change are essential for long-term success — and why the time for pilot projects is over. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the future of the automotive industry, the role of AI, and the race to define tomorrow’s mobility.

In the fourth live episode of the Visionary Club Podcast, host Sarah Harman welcomes Ralf-Peter Schäfer, VP Product Management Traffic and Travel Information at TomTom. Together, they explore the remarkable transformation of the former navigation pioneer into a global tech provider for intelligent mobility solutions. Having been with the company for nearly two decades, Ralf-Peter Schäfer offers insights into TomTom’s evolution from a satnav manufacturer to a B2B partner for real-time maps, traffic data, and smart city solutions. Listeners will learn how TomTom now connects with over 600 million users worldwide, what links the company to Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon, and why cities like Copenhagen are seen as role models for data-driven urban transformation. They also discuss the role of high-definition maps in automated driving, the interplay between real-time data, navigation, and policymaking — and why change is never easy, yet more necessary than ever. Tune in to this inspiring conversation about technology, infrastructure, and the courage to embrace transformation.

In the third live episode of the Visionary Club Podcast at IAA MOBILITY, our host Sarah Harman welcomes Marc Mielau, Chief Commercial Officer at JobRad Loop. Marc Mielau shares a forward-looking vision for the future of cycling: a mobility solution built entirely around the principles of the circular economy. Together, they discuss the potential of high-quality refurbished bikes, the use of digital twins to predict returns and create personalized offers, and the growing demand — especially among younger generations — for sustainable and trustworthy alternatives to buying new. Marc Mielau explains how JobRad Loop aims to revolutionize the used-bike market through digitalization, standardization, and a strong customer-centric approach — and why refurbished bikes are much more than just second-hand.

In the second live episode of the IAA MOBILITY VISIONARY CLUB at IAA MOBILITY, host Sarah Harman sits down with Joachim Franz, General Manager Automotive & Mobility at Microsoft. Together, they explore the concept of the “Third Space” — the vehicle interior as a third workplace alongside the office and home. Joachim Franz explains how Microsoft is working with partners from the automotive industry to make commuting more productive and safer by integrating tools like Outlook and Teams directly into the vehicle. We learn how AI-powered voice assistants can summarize emails, dictate messages, or capture ideas immediately after client meetings — all without distracting the driver. Franz also highlights why cybersecurity and data privacy are key priorities, and how these solutions could evolve alongside increasing vehicle automation — transforming the car from a productive workspace into an immersive entertainment space. Tune in to discover how Microsoft’s “Third Space” concept is redefining the future of work and mobility — and why digital productivity inside the car could soon become a crucial purchasing factor.

In the first live episode of the Visionary Club Podcast at IAA MOBILITY, our host Sarah Harman welcomes Sören Holz, VP Strategy, Business Development, Customer Care at BMW. Sören Holz offers fascinating insights into the transformation from a traditional aftersales business to a holistic approach to customer support and care. He explains why the customer journey extends far beyond the purchase itself and how BMW is redefining the ownership experience with Proactive Care. The focus is on predictive maintenance, digital services via the MyBMW app, remote diagnostics, and personalized communication designed to build trust and peace of mind. We discuss BMW’s “Relax, we care” service philosophy, the use of AI in customer interactions, and the expansion of Proactive Care to the MINI brand. Sören Holz also explains why customer loyalty is a crucial competitive advantage and how BMW is modernizing its dealer networks and service processes to exceed customer expectations worldwide.

In the fourteenth episode of the Visionary Club Podcast, our host Sarah Harman welcomes a very special guest: Simon Schütz, Head of Communications, Events, and Marketing at the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). Schütz shares exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, discusses the role of political signals, the importance of international exhibitors, and the growing significance of technology partnerships.He explains why the new trade fair concept combining the Summit and Open Space has proven so successful, why experiencing mobility firsthand is so important for reaching broad audiences — and what moved him most on a personal level.

In the thirteenth episode of the IAA MOBILITY VISIONARY CLUB, host Sarah Harman welcomes Markus Papke, Chief Innovation Officer at Riese & Müller. With a visionary outlook, Papke paints a picture of an urban future where e-bikes are not just a means of transportation, but the centerpiece of sustainable, livable cities. He discusses the “Smart Shift” toward cleaner, more connected, and safer mobility, shares inspiring examples from major cities around the world, and explains why e-bikes are a true lifestyle choice—one that has the power to fundamentally change our daily lives and the way we move. Discover how innovative technologies—from AI-powered maintenance to V2X communication—are transforming comfort and safety, the role of circular economy principles and sustainable design, and why bold infrastructure decisions made today can be the game-changer for the mobility of tomorrow.

In the twelfth episode of the IAA MOBILITY VISIONARY CLUB, our host Sarah Harman sits down with Peter Bosch, CEO of Cariad – the Volkswagen Group's automotive software company. With remarkable clarity, Bosch discusses the radical transformation of the automotive industry, Cariad’s strategic realignment, and the company’s journey from crisis mode to tech leadership. He shares his personal motivation for driving deep organizational change, explains why software has become the beating heart of modern vehicles, and how the Group has managed to engineer a true turnaround. Discover why in-house development has become a key strategic priority, how partnerships with Rivian, Horizon Robotics, and XPeng are unlocking new paths to innovation – and why China, of all places, is emerging as a training ground for European tech players.

In episode eleven, our host Sarah Harman welcomes Christian Reitmeyer, CEO and owner of redi-Group GmbH. In a candid and compelling conversation, Reitmeyer opens up about navigating crises, how failure became a turning point, and why resilience has become the most essential leadership trait of our time. He shares his personal journey — from near-collapse to a successful restructuring of his company — and explains why radical transparency, trust, and decentralized responsibility are the true drivers of long-term success. Discover how a crisis can spark innovation, what modern leadership looks like in today’s global automotive industry, and why a sincere “no” can be the starting point of a real partnership.