The Art of Digitalisation

E-Estonia Briefing Centre

Welcome to The Art of Digitalisation, a podcast brought to you by one of the most digital countries on earth, e-Estonia. Directly from the heart of the e-Estonia secret headquarters. Or briefing centre as we actually call it. In every episode, we bring you digitalisation experts from across the globe, sharing their expertise and advice on how they transformed businesses, governments, and more, using innovation through technology. Whether you’re taking your first steps on your own digitalisation journey, want captivating insights from renowned experts, or love some Estonian straight-faced humour, this is the podcast for you.

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59 episodes
Updated June 16

Episodes59

Newest first

June 16 · 32 min
Human connection in a digital society
In this episode, we explore what happens to human connection in an increasingly digital world. Nesli Hazal Oktay, Associate Professor of Interaction Design at the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA), explains why efficiency should not always be the main goal of digital services and how concepts such as “remote intimacy” and intentional friction can help preserve meaningful relationships. The conversation looks at how Estonia’s digital society balances convenience with human needs, why small everyday interactions still matter, and how designers can help create more empathetic and human-centred public services.
May 19 · 49 min
Learning, AI, and Estonia’s education success
In this episode, we explore why Estonia’s education system continues to attract global attention - from top PISA results to digital learning and AI in schools. Kai Koort from Education Estonia and the Education and Youth Board explains how teacher autonomy, inclusive education, creativity, and a strong growth mindset shape student success. The conversation also looks at Estonia’s balanced approach to digitalisation, the growing international interest in Estonian kindergartens, and how the AI Leap initiative is pushing schools to rethink learning, teaching, and future skills in the age of artificial intelligence.
April 20 · 45 min
Fixing regulation to unlock innovation
In this episode, we explore how governments can enable innovation by adapting regulation to keep pace with technological change. Johanna-Kadri Kuusk speaks with Olari Püvi and Oliver Rätsep from Accelerate Estonia about how regulatory barriers are identified and redesigned to help new ideas reach the market. The episode also features insights from Sidsel Bülow Skovborg, Digitalisation Councillor at the Danish Embassy of London, recorded at the Global Government Forum in London. Together, the discussions highlight how small states can act as testing grounds for scalable solutions, why public–private cooperation matters, and how trust, infrastructure, and clear strategy shape successful digital governance. We’ve also got a quick invitation: Digit x PyCon 2026, a one-day software engineering conference, takes place in Tartu on October 9. The event brings together talks, workshops, and hands-on sessions focused on how AI and LLMs are changing software development in practice. More information: digit.dev.
March 16 · 57 min
Cybersecurity, phishing, and digital resilience
In this episode, we explore how the cyber threat landscape is evolving in an increasingly digital society. Gert Auväärt, Director of Cyber Security at the Estonian Information System Authority (RIA), explains why cybersecurity has become a basic requirement for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. Together with Urmo Keskel, Co-founder of Phishbite, the discussion looks at the rise of scams and phishing attacks, how AI is making fraud more convincing, and why human awareness is often the weakest link in cyber defence. The episode highlights practical steps organisations and individuals can take to improve cyber hygiene and strengthen resilience in a world where digital threats continue to grow.
February 17 · 54 min
Rethinking learning in the age of AI
In this episode, we explore Estonia’s AI Leap and what it means for learning in the age of artificial intelligence. Through conversations with teachers, programme leaders, and an educational psychologist, we look at how AI is already changing classroom practices, assessment, and student skills. The episode examines how the initiative is being rolled out nationwide, why guidance and shared rules matter, and how AI can support learning without replacing the thinking process itself.
Dec 18, 2025 · 44 min
How digital systems make business easier
In this episode, we examine what truly makes it easy to start, run, and scale a business in a digital society. Ivar Merilo, serial entrepreneur and founder of Waybiller, explains how removing paper-based workflows and designing systems around shared data can eliminate entire layers of unnecessary work. He discusses why Estonia’s digital state and public–private cooperation create a uniquely supportive environment for innovation, what still needs to change in public procurement, and how AI is reshaping productivity without removing the need for human judgment.
Dec 4, 2025 · 38 min
Insights for the UK’s eID debate from Estonian experience
In this special episode, we examine what happens when a country with decades of digital-state experience meets a nation only beginning to debate digital identity. Estonia’s Chief Information Officer, Lauri Luht, and long-time e-Residency advocate Adam Rang, unpack the UK’s sudden pivot toward eID, the misconceptions shaping public fears, and the practical realities behind privacy, data protection and cyber resilience. They explain why digital identity is not a threat to civil liberties but a prerequisite for transparency, how trust is built through consent and accountability, and why culturally aligned design, not “one-size-fits-all” solutions, determines success. The conversation also explores the soft-power impact of Estonia’s digital reputation and the opportunities that a well-implemented eID unlocks for both citizens and the private sector.
Nov 23, 2025 · 40 min
Cyber command: defending a digital society
In this episode, we explore how national defence changes when society itself becomes digital. Mikk Tikk, Deputy Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces Cyber Command and lead mentor at NATO DIANA, explains why cyber security protects a way of life rather than just infrastructure. He outlines how redundancy, joint exercises, and close cooperation with the private sector shape modern defence, why Cyber Command must be ready to operate without the internet, and how innovation, from AI to drones and space-based networks, is redefining both threats and capabilities.
Oct 21, 2025 · 47 min
Digitalisation, cleantech, and the green transition
In this episode, we examine how digitalisation accelerates the green transition. Mikk Vainik from Rohetiiger outlines how secure data, interoperability, and sector roadmaps turn sustainability goals into measurable business practice. Sven Parkel from the Estonian Hydrogen Cluster explains renewable hydrogen and Hydrogen Valleys, why EU-driven collaboration matters, how research translates into real-world pilots, and where startups can create the most impact.
Sep 16, 2025 · 49 min
AI and the future of e-health
In this episode, we dive into the future of e-health and pharmaceuticals. Kertti Merimaa from Nortal shares how AI is already transforming healthcare through diagnostics, clinical decision support, and predictive tools, while also dispelling common myths about AI in medicine. Jason Grenfell-Gardner, CEO of J. Molner Company, explains how Estonia became a base for pharmaceutical innovation and why fixing fragile drug supply chains is just as critical as breakthrough therapies.
Sep 1, 2025 · 48 min
Vattan PS and the future of AI sovereignty
In this episode, visionary founder Vattan PS explains why countries cannot afford to depend solely on a handful of global AI providers. We discuss Estonia’s role as a potential prototype nation for AI governance, why AI literacy is becoming core infrastructure, and how upcoming shifts in cost, regulation, and adoption will reshape the landscape faster than any digital transformation before. Vattan PS is building the infrastructure for human potential at a planetary scale. As Founder of Founderly, the operating system for founder success, and Founding Visionary at V, he's defining systems where humans and AI multiply each other's capabilities through Agency. The pattern is clear: companies depending on OpenAI's API today look like businesses running on AOL in 1999. While others debate AI safety, Vattan is building sovereign AI infrastructure, making every human as powerful as a team, not unemployed. The Estonian AI initiatives, New Nordics AI Week, AI Forum, and EstoniAI Meetup, aren't events but infrastructure installations, creating the builder density for Estonia to prototype what every nation needs: AI sovereignty. Find out more: https://v.ee https://founderly.com https://newnordicsai.com https://aiml.ee https://estoniai.com
Jun 19, 2025 · 56 min
Creativity, technology, and AI
We explore how digital technology is reshaping the creative industries in Estonia, from live AI-generated theatre to immersive VR dance and the future of digital fashion. Mart-Matteus Kampus shares the behind-the-scenes challenges of co-creating a stage production with ChatGPT. Choreographer Liis Vares and interdisciplinary artist Taavet Jansen introduce a performance where the audience becomes part of the show through virtual reality. And fashion designer Xenia Joost reflects on how digital tools can drive both innovation and sustainability in the fashion world. Tune in to discover how Estonian artists are merging creativity and code to push the boundaries of what’s possible in performance, design, and cultural heritage.
May 20, 2025 · 51 min
Education, innovation, and the AI Leap
We explore Estonia’s bold leap into AI-powered education with insights from Gert Jervan, Dean of the School of Information Technologies at TalTech. Gert shares how Estonia is preparing to teach artificial intelligence in high schools and why the country’s new AI-focused bachelor’s program is critical for shaping future innovators. We also hear from Liis Siiroja, CEO of EdTech Estonia, who highlights the role of the private sector in driving educational innovation and explains how Estonian EdTech companies are scaling globally. Finally, Heli Aru-Chabilan, a long-time education policy expert, reflects on Estonia’s decades-long journey toward digital learning - from the Tiger Leap era to today’s AI Leap. She unpacks the strategic decisions, teacher training efforts, and cultural mindset that made it possible. Tune in to discover how Estonia is once again redefining the future, this time by transforming how we teach and learn in the age of AI.
Apr 22, 2025 · 1 hr
AI, e-governance, and the future of digital transformation
We dive into Estonia's e-governance journey with insights from Joel Burke, AI policy expert and author of Rebooting A Nation. Joel shares his experience of Estonia's rise as a global leader in digital governance, highlighting the cultural mindset and political courage that helped shape the nation's innovative e-government systems. We also explore how AI is shaping the future of public services with experts Liina Kamm and Katrin Rajamäe-Soosaar, who discuss the importance of responsible AI deployment, its impact on local governments, and the role of digitalisation in improving everyday services. Tune in to discover the lessons Estonia’s digital transformation holds for the world.
Mar 18, 2025 · 54 min
The cyber security challenge: protecting nations and industries
This time, we explore the critical role of cyber security in an increasingly digital world. Our hosts, Johanna-Kadri Kuusk and Petra Holm, talk with two experts to explore the challenges and solutions associated with combining digital transformation and security. In this episode: Nick Washer, the Global Head of Defence of Nortal, discussed: The role of digitalisation in modern defence and its complexities. The importance of continuous investment in cyber security and data protection. Vjatšeslav Antipenko, Junior Research Fellow of the University of Tartu, covered: Cyber security challenges in Industry 4.0 and the integration of IoT in manufacturing. The role of AI in cyber security, highlighting its dual use for both defence and attacks. Practical advice for organisations to improve their cyber security posture, such as employee education and robust documentation.
Feb 18, 2025 · 1 hr
Estonia's e-ID journey and the rise of the EU Digital Identity Wallet
We delve into the intriguing world of electronic identification, exploring its evolution and impact from local and global perspectives. Join our hosts, Petra Holm and Johanna-Kadri Kuusk, as they guide you through Estonia's groundbreaking e-ID initiatives in the 90s to the exciting prospects of the EU digital wallet. In this episode: Kalev Pihl, CEO of SK ID Solutions, shares firsthand experiences of Estonia's e-ID's inception and its impactful evolution. Riho Kurg, Country Manager at Zetes, who is an expert in digital identity and trust, discusses the EU digital wallet and its integration with Estonia's digital infrastructure, emphasizing enhanced user privacy through selective information disclosure. Aivo Kalu, Lead Security Engineer at Cybernetica, addresses the EU digital identity wallet's potential to streamline privacy and improve interoperability across member states, highlighting Estonia's integration efforts with existing digital systems.
Jan 29, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Estonia: 100% digital and 0% bureaucrazy
Join us in celebrating Estonia's remarkable achievement of full digitalization of all public services, including divorce, marking a new era of 0% bureaucracy. This episode features discussions with influential leaders like Priit Kongo, Siim Sikkut, and Luukas Ilves, who share insights on the digital transformation that has positioned Estonia as a global leader in governmental efficiency. Tune in to hear how these changes are enhancing public service and setting the stage for future innovations.
Dec 17, 2024 · 43 min
Straight to business: from e-Residency to real-time economy
This time we uncover how Estonia, the world's leading digital society, is transforming government and business operations through innovative technologies. In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of the real-time economy—a game-changing initiative that Estonia is leading to reduce the administrative burdens on entrepreneurs and enable more immediate business transactions. Additionally, we examine the impact of Estonia’s e-Residency program on global business practices through digital innovation. In this episode: Sirli Heinsoo, Director of the Digital Economy Department at the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, joins us to explain how Estonia's digital landscape is evolving. We'll explore the steps Estonia is taking to minimise reporting requirements and bureaucratic hurdles, making it easier for businesses to thrive. Hear from e-residents Alistair Starling, Natalia Storozhukwho and Oleksandr Storozhukwho have navigated the waters of starting and operating a business in Estonia. They will share their personal challenges and triumphs, providing a real-world perspective on the digital tools and systems that have shaped their entrepreneurial journeys being part of e-Residency.
Nov 20, 2024 · 58 min
Future of medicine: personalisation, genomics and AI
We explore the cutting-edge of healthcare digitalisation through the lens of genomics, artificial intelligence, and e-health strategies. Liis Leitsalu, researcher at the Estonian Genome Center and the University of Tartu, will guide us through the evolving world of genomics. She shares her expert insights on how genetic research is revolutionising personalised medicine, the role of Estonia's pioneering Biobank, and the ethical considerations surrounding genetic data. Professor Kristjan Port, a sports biologist with deep roots in academic research, discusses the diverse applications of AI in healthcare, from diagnostics and treatment to managing patient data and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI technology. His insights will illuminate how AI is not just a tool of the future but a present reality shaping our medical landscape. Jaanika Merilo, Head of Digital Health at the Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs, talks about Estonia's new e-health strategy. She outlines how digital tools are enhancing patient care, supporting healthcare professionals, and ensuring data-driven decision-making. She will explain how Estonia is leveraging technology to streamline healthcare services and improve patient outcomes, setting a benchmark for digital health globally.
Oct 22, 2024 · 54 min
Green futures: cleantech, biotech, and AI
We explore the game-changing world of cleantech and sustainability, showcasing the crucial roles and innovative approaches of industry leaders. We'll explore the intersections of policy, technology, and market strategies that drive the green transition in sectors ranging from waste management to sustainable manufacturing. Kädi Ristkok, CEO of the Estonian Cleantech Association discusses the integral role of cleantech in driving sustainable growth across Estonia and the Baltics, highlighting the need for scaling existing technologies to meet climate neutrality by 2050. Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, PhD. Co-founder and COO of ÄIO explores advancements in biotechnology for producing sustainable fats and oils, detailing the transition from academic research to commercial application. Kristjan Variksoo, CTO of Wastelocker explains company´s innovative AI and camera technology in waste management, aimed at improving sorting and achieving zero waste goals and also discusses the company's expansion into the Middle East.