The Forward Deployed Operator

Map before you build.

Conversations with the people who work out what should be built before anyone opens a tool. Every episode lives here in full — watch it, listen to it, or read the whole transcript. Distributed on YouTube and Spotify.

Watch every episode on YouTube →

Episodes published

Full

Transcript on every page

Free

No paywall, no gate

July 28, 2026 guest Episode 1

Forward Deployed Operator vs. Forward Deployed Engineer: What's the Difference?

With Phil Lakin, Zapier

Phil Lakin, Director of AI Transformation at Zapier, on the role that sits between the consultant and the engineer, and the three questions to ask before you hire for it.

Watch, listen, or read →

Don't miss the next conversation.

Subscribe to The Forward Deployed Operator. Operational patterns from inside real engagements — any industry, any size. Weekly. Free.

Subscribe on Substack →