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In this thought-provoking podcast, Vanessa Foser—a C-level executive, AI strategist, and leadership coach—shares insights into digital transformation, leadership, and the power of purposeful networking.  

Vanessa begins by identifying a common challenge among executives: not just a fear of missing out (FOMO), but a deeper fear of making the wrong choice in a rapidly evolving tech landscape—what she calls FOBO (Fear of Better Options). She explains that this hesitation often leads companies to delay critical innovation steps, which ultimately becomes costlier than taking calculated risks.

A core theme of the conversation is that digital transformation is not just about tools—it’s about people. The major obstacles aren’t technical, but cultural: lack of trust, unclear communication, and resistance to change. Vanessa stresses that empowering teams with knowledge—what she calls “swarm intelligence”—creates alignment and unlocks internal innovation. When people understand the purpose behind technology, they use it better and more responsibly.

She provides real-world examples of AI implementations gone wrong, such as poor communication bots or automation missteps that damaged customer relationships. These failures often stem from applying AI without proper training or human context, underlining Vanessa’s belief that leaders must consciously decide what to automate—and what must remain human.

An important part of the discussion focuses on networking and leadership visibility, particularly for women. Vanessa outlines three core principles: preparation, authenticity, and purpose. She encourages approaching networking with curiosity and clarity—understanding who you’re meeting, being genuine, and having a reason to connect. She also offers strategic advice, such as preferring lunch meetings over dinners to maintain professional boundaries and avoid social ambiguity.

Vanessa also highlights the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in advancing women’s careers. While policies on diversity are necessary, real change happens when individuals within organizations take active steps to support and advocate for others.

Her personal mantra—"Love it, change it, or leave it"—sums up her philosophy: be clear on your values and make conscious decisions about where and how you work. For Vanessa, true leadership is about clarity, confidence, and aligned action. She se

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

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In dieser Episode sprechen wir mit Raphael Bachmann, dem CEO der bekannten Confiserie Bachmann. Während unseres Gesprächs beleuchten wir die einzigartige Rolle, die das Unternehmen in der Luzerner Kultur und Wirtschaft spielt. Raphael erklärt, dass der Erfolg der Confiserie nicht nur von ihm oder seinem Bruder abhängt, sondern von einem engagierten Team, das er liebevoll als "Bachmannschaft" bezeichnet. 

Wir diskutieren das rasante Wachstum des Unternehmens und die Herausforderungen, die damit einhergehen, insbesondere im historischen Kontext eines Familienbetriebs. Raphael betont, dass es bei dieser Expansion nicht nur um Marktanteile geht, sondern auch um die Diversität der Standorte, an denen sie präsent sind.  

Ein zentrales Thema des Gesprächs ist die Innovationskraft von Bachmann. Raphael erklärt, wie die Confiserie auf Trends reagiert und diese in eigene Produkte verwandelt. Ein herausragendes Beispiel ist das "Dubai-Style Schutzengeli", das durch seinen hohen Absatz und innovative Ansätze in der Schokoladenherstellung für Aufsehen sorgt. Wir sprechen über die Balance zwischen Anpassen an neue Markttrends und dem Bewahren der traditionellen Werte, die das Unternehmen prägen.

Darüber hinaus reflektieren wir seine eigene Führungsphilosophie. Raphael teilt ehrlich seine Schwächen und Lernprozesse in Bezug auf Management und Verantwortung. Er betont, wie wichtig es ist, ein Umfeld zu schaffen, in dem Mitarbeiter sich äußern und ihre Meinungen teilen können. Hierbei spielt die Digitalisierung eine entscheidende Rolle, da sie die Kommunikation innerhalb des Unternehmens erleichtert und Entscheidungen transparenter macht.

Ein weiterer Diskussionspunkt ist die Bedeutung der Nachhaltigkeit und sozialen Verantwortung des Unternehmens. Raphael erklärt die Gründung einer Stiftung, die sich um Projekte zur Bekämpfung von Kinderarbeit kümmert – ein Thema, das ihm und seinem Bruder sehr am Herzen liegt. Diese Initiative ist nicht nur ein Ausdruck ihres unternehmerischen Ethos, sondern auch ein Weg, langfristig eine positive Wirkung auf die Gesellschaft zu erzielen.

Abschließend richtet er seinen Blick in die Zukunft und spricht über die Nachfolge in der Familie. Er möchte seinen Söhnen keine Verpflichtungen aufdrängen, sondern sie dazu inspirieren, ihre eigenen Wege zu finden, während sie gleichzeitig die Werte und die Passion für die Branche weitertragen. Diese Vision von gemeinsamem Wachstum und positiver Einflussnahme auf die Umwelt und die Gesellschaft steht im Mittelpunkt der Philosophie

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

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• Web

Send us a text

In this episode, I engage in an important discussion about menopause—a topic often left unspoken and misunderstood, especially in professional settings. My guest is Silvia Fernandez, a psychiatrist specializing in mental health and estrogen-related challenges at work. Together, we examine how menopause affects women psychologically, and why it matters to both individuals and organizations.

Silvia explains the three phases: pre-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause. We explore the emotional shifts women experience, especially during perimenopause, when hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and confusion—often intensified by life pressures like aging parents or teenage children. These psychosocial effects are just as crucial as physical symptoms.

We highlight the stigma that keeps menopause in the shadows, even though nearly 10% of women aged 40–60 leave their jobs due to related challenges. This signals a major loss of experience for companies that ignore the issue. Awareness and open dialogue—among women, their partners, and employers—are vital to change this.

Silvia stresses the value of vulnerability. When women speak openly about their struggles, they not only empower themselves but also foster understanding in their surroundings. This can improve both workplace policies and personal relationships.

We also touch on how menopause affects sexuality. Silvia encourages women to redefine self-worth and embrace this life stage with confidence. Menopause is not an end, but a transformation.

This episode is a call to break the silence and support women in navigating menopause with dignity, knowledge, and strength.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

This episode features Andrea Wucher, a dynamic multi-manager and member of several board of directors across industries. We delve into her unique approach to leadership and the responsibilities she shoulders, not just for her companies and employees, but for their families and futures. Her commitment stems from a deep sense of duty, illustrated by her belief that true management means preparing others to thrive independently, ensuring that the company can function smoothly in her absence.

Andrea discusses her diverse career, spanning construction, IT, and aviation, and how her driving force lies in daily learning and collaboration. She shares her passion for making swift decisions in the often male-dominated construction sector, emphasizing the importance of responsibility as both a pleasure and a challenge. Her experience has taught her that leadership is about empowering teams, promoting a culture where employees can flourish, and that the real satisfaction comes from seeing tangible results from collaborative efforts.

Our conversation also highlights Andrea's distinctive qualities when it comes to workforce management. She emphasizes her philosophy of "hire for attitude, train for skills," and explains how this approach varies slightly between fields like IT and construction, where communication and problem-solving are paramount. Andrea shares anecdotes from her career, illustrating her willingness to embrace challenges and how she navigates the fast-paced decisions required in construction, such as the complexities faced during the ambitious Bern Messe project.

The discussion touches on the challenges and dynamics of being a woman in leadership roles, particularly in sectors where female representation is scarce. Andrea candidly shares her experiences of overcoming initial skepticism and establishing her authority, while also advocating for hiring based on merit rather than gender. She believes that the qualities of a good leader transcend gender and that successful leadership is about accountability, approachability, and decisiveness.

As she reflects on past projects and the lessons learned, Andrea expresses a desire to continue pushing boundaries and growing her businesses. Her dedication to constructive criticism and continuous improvement remains a cornerstone of her leadership style. The episode concludes with insights on her future aspirations and her thoughts on embracing change, thereby underscoring her lifelong commitment to p

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

This episode features an insightful conversation with Goekhan, a former Google expert with 18+ years of experience, who explores AI’s evolution and its societal impact. He shares his journey from being a child of Turkish immigrants in Germany to earning a PhD in AI and contributing to major Google products.

Goekhan reflects on his career at Google, driven by a passion for programming and system-building, leading to innovations like BMW’s iDrive. He discusses AI’s shift from a complex, metrics-driven field to one filled with new opportunities and challenges, including concerns about AI education and whether new tools are simplifying or oversimplifying skill sets.

The conversation shifts to AI’s broader societal effects. Goekhan shares both excitement and concerns about AI adoption, warning that overreliance on automation could erode critical skills among engineers and professionals. He questions whether today’s workforce is maintaining foundational skills as automation grows.

Goekhan also assesses Europe’s position in AI, contrasting it with the US and China. He stresses the need for regional commitment, cultural readiness, and educational investment to help the next generation adapt to an AI-driven world.

Through his startup incubator, Enzian Labs, Goekhan fosters innovation in Europe, emphasizing hands-on craftsmanship in coding and beyond. His insights offer a compelling mix of personal anecdotes, expert tech analysis, and thought-provoking discussions on AI’s role in our future.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

In this episode of From Noise to Sound, I speak with Professor Dr. Jana Pachlopnik, a leading expert in pediatric immunology at the University of Zurich. With 7,000 citations and a dedicated research lab, she has significantly contributed to understanding genetic disorders in children's immune systems.

Jana shares her passion for discovering new diseases and developing targeted treatments for children with genetic immune deficiencies. She explains the unique challenges of pediatric immunology, highlighting how inherited conditions often manifest more severely in children than in adults. We also explore how next-generation sequencing has transformed disease detection and treatment.

As head of a multidisciplinary unit integrating clinical care, diagnostics, and research, Jana discusses how these fields work together to improve patient outcomes. She describes her collaborations with startups, which help translate scientific research into real-world therapies for rare immune disorders.

Our conversation also touches on the emotional challenges of her work. Jana candidly shares her experiences with frustration, resilience, and the human side of medicine. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, fostering the next generation of medical professionals with empathy and interpersonal skills.

We discuss how technology, including AI, is shaping medical education and healthcare, but Jana advocates for balancing innovation with the irreplaceable human touch. She also reflects on the evolving definition of success in medicine, stressing accessibility and personal fulfillment.

The episode ends with inspiring patient stories, illustrating how targeted therapies transform lives. Jana’s commitment to discovery and innovation continues to push the boundaries of pediatric immunology, making a lasting impact on children's health.

This episode blends science and humanity, offering listeners an insightful look into the world of pediatric medicine.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
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• Web

Send us a text

This episode features Alexander Zinsler, an executive search expert, discussing career transitions and the evolving job market. Zinsler's own career shift from Chief Legal Officer to executive search provides a unique perspective. He emphasizes the importance of personal development and fulfillment over purely monetary rewards, encouraging listeners to embrace change and strategically plan their careers. He highlights the current "war for talent," noting that companies must prioritize employee development and purpose to attract and retain top performers.

The conversation explores the impact of emerging technologies, particularly AI, on various sectors. Zinsler explains how organizations must adapt by integrating new tools, which in turn requires employees to continuously learn and acquire new skills to remain relevant. He stresses that an ideal candidate possesses not only the necessary skills but also the right personality and cultural fit within an organization. Zinsler describes his methods for assessing these qualities, including networking, communication, and case studies.

The discussion also touches on the importance of continuous education and adaptability in maintaining professional relevance. Zinsler suggests that problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complexity are becoming more valuable than traditional measures of prestige. Finally, he shares his perspective on remote work, acknowledging the value of flexibility while emphasizing the continued importance of face-to-face interactions for fostering strong team connections and effective communication. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating career transitions or seeking to understand the dynamics of today's rapidly changing job market.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
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• Web

Send us a text

A great conversation with Alexander Senn in today’s rapidly evolving work environment, managing HR challenges requires adaptability and foresight, particularly in global organizations like Siemens. Key issues include navigating technological advancements, addressing generational differences, and evolving workplace cultures. The shift towards flexible work, spurred by the pandemic, has underscored the importance of balancing remote and in-office dynamics to foster innovation and maintain strong employee connections.

Organizations are urged to adopt a holistic approach to change, integrating culture with updated structures and business models. For younger generations, investing in education and foundational skills remains crucial to thriving in an AI-driven era. Leaders must look beyond traditional qualifications, prioritizing growth mindsets and motivation in hiring. Creating a positive candidate experience and fostering an empowering workplace culture can significantly enhance an organization’s brand.

Encouraging employees to invest in personal growth, embrace continuous learning, and practice self-reflection strengthens both individual careers and organizational success. Open communication, energy management, and work-life balance are pivotal for cultivating a productive and engaged workforce. Managers play a transformative role in aligning personal and collective goals, driving change, and creating a healthy, dynamic environment. Career shifts also benefit from proactive networking, connecting with industry professionals, and exploring opportunities through company events.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

In the episode, Manuela Leonhard shares her inspiring journey of making a significant career change later in life. She transitioned from working as a personal assistant to the mayor of Zurich to becoming a social media influencer. Manuela explains that while she was happy in her previous job, she felt the need for a change and began taking pictures of Zurich and sharing them on social media. Her content gained popularity, leading to her new career. Throughout the interview, Manuela discusses her experiences with social media, particularly LinkedIn, where she received both positive and negative feedback but persisted in sharing her content. Her efforts were recognized, and she received an award for her engagement on LinkedIn. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Manuela continued to share pictures of Zurich, providing comfort and positivity to her followers. She received feedback from people worldwide who appreciated her posts. Manuela also shares the challenges she faced in making her career change, including the decision to leave a well-paid and prestigious job. She discusses the support she received from her network and the opportunities that came her way. Looking ahead, Manuela expresses her excitement about the future and her plans to continue exploring new opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of networking and being open to new experiences. Additionally, Manuela offers advice to young people, encouraging them to build a strong network and be open to change. She highlights the importance of looking inside oneself and being true to one's passions and interests. Overall, an inspiring amount of Manuela Leonhardt's career change and her journey as a social media influencer, emphasizing resilience, networking, and staying true to oneself.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
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• Web

Send us a text

In this episode, I engage with Barbara Ratke, a trailblazer in healthcare and entrepreneurship, to uncover her inspiring journey. Barbara shares how an unexpected stint in an elderly home ignited her passion for caregiving, leading to a fulfilling yet challenging nursing career. Her transition to entrepreneurship was fueled by personal struggles, including advocating for her ill child, which drove her to establish a home-care company addressing gaps in the healthcare system.  

We explore her resilience in navigating the uncertainties of business, particularly as a woman, and the vital role of mentorship in overcoming self-doubt. Barbara reflects on pressing healthcare challenges, such as rising costs and evolving workforce demands, and discusses the transformative potential of AI when used ethically.  

She concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing autonomy and meaningful mentorship. Barbara’s story is a powerful testament to innovation, community, and the strength to turn challenges into opportunities.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

In this episode of the From Noise to Sound podcast, Niclas Delfs shares his inspiring journey from developing hangover tablets during his studies to founding Morrow Ventures and its spinoff, Aighty-Twenty. With a background in strategy consulting and entrepreneurship, Nikolaus emphasizes the importance of innovative approaches, particularly in transforming traditional consulting models into collaborative partnerships with clients.

He dives into the opportunities and challenges of implementing Generative AI (Gen AI) in businesses, explaining how Aighty-Twenty’s platform, AVA, optimizes efficiency and creativity. By integrating tools that enhance information access and streamline processes, the focus shifts from repetitive tasks to strategic, creative work. Niclas also addresses concerns about automation’s impact on jobs, advocating for AI as a tool to improve productivity and job quality.

Touching on personal balance, Niclas shares how hobbies like gaming help him recharge, offering insight into his dynamic approach to business and life in a digital age.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web

Send us a text

In this episode of From Noise to Sound, I share the motivation and vision behind the podcast, born from my experiences as an IT professional and lecturer at HSLU. This platform aims to connect academic knowledge with real-world experiences by featuring informal discussions with industry leaders and inspiring figures. We explore their journeys, focusing on unfiltered perspectives and valuable insights often overlooked in traditional settings. Each episode encourages reflection and practical guidance for personal and professional growth, fostering a community through engaging conversations. I invite feedback and interaction to help shape our content and look forward to sharing this journey with you.

Hoster from Dr. Dimitrios Marinos and presented by the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU.

How do today’s leaders cut through the noise and shape the future?

In each episode of From Noise to Sound, host Dr. Dimitrios Marinos, from the Department of Marketing and Communication at HSLU, dives deep with CEOs, Board Members, and industry innovators to uncover the forces reshaping our world. Through insightful conversations, he explores topics like digital transformation, consumer behavior, and sustainability, revealing strategies and innovations that are driving real change.

Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on navigating a complex business landscape. Tune in each month to sharpen your view on leadership, tech-driven success, and what’s next in marketing and beyond.

New episodes every month, brought to you by HSLU, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.

Useful Links:

• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Web