Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Today, we dive into the fascinating intersection of design and quantum computing. Our guest, Klem Jankiewicz, Head of Design at Classiq—a leading quantum software company—joins Candace Gillhoolley and Frank La Vigne to explore how creative minds like designers, marketers, and educators are becoming essential players in the quantum ecosystem.
You'll hear Klem Jankiewicz share her journey from industrial design to quantum labs, discuss the importance of intuitive user interfaces, and reveal how visual tools are opening up quantum technology to more people than ever before. She explains why designing for quantum is unlike anything else—there’s no roadmap, and every project is a chance to invent new ways of making this complex technology accessible.
We’ll touch on the evolution of industry culture, hear about groundbreaking projects like Quantum Flytrap, and get tips for anyone thinking about entering the quantum-tech space. Whether you’re a physicist, a developer, or simply quantum-curious, this episode shows why the future of quantum is brighter—and more welcoming—than ever.
Stay tuned as we connect the dots between science, creativity, and the next generation of tech innovation!
Links
Klem's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/klem-jankiewicz/
Classiq - https://www.classiq.io/

Time Stamps
00:00 "Quantum Tech: Diverse User Interfaces"
04:20 Journey Through Quantum and Technology
10:51 "Designing Quantum's Uncharted Frontiers"
13:30 "User-Driven Features and Impact"
15:57 "Designing Inclusive Tech Interfaces"
19:43 Designing Visuals for Complex Science
23:04 Collaborating with Physicists is Inspiring
28:26 Interactive Quantum Algorithm Visualization Tool
29:40 Advancing Quantum Circuit Visualization
36:39 "Following Fascination Over Career Paths"
38:36 Unexpected Career Evolution
42:30 Collaborating Across Disciplines
45:32 Explaining Quantum Computing Simply
47:59 "Connect via Classiq or LinkedIn"

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne, Candace Gillhoolley, and Ska Guy dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of quantum computing and security with special guest Adam Firestone, CEO and co-founder of Sixera. Adam Firestone breaks down how quantum computing isn’t just changing security—it’s completely upending it, exposing vulnerabilities that many organizations overlook.
We explore the pressing threats posed by quantum computing, including the "harvest now, decrypt later" phenomenon that’s challenging industries to rethink how they protect sensitive information. Adam Firestone walks us through Sixera’s approach to solving the quantum architecture problem, breaking down why new algorithms alone aren’t enough and how decentralization and protocol innovation are key to keeping data truly secure.
Whether you’re a tech startup, a law firm, or just quantum-curious, this episode demystifies the business impact and the practical steps companies should be taking now—not ten years down the line. Plus, we learn about Adam Firestone’s journey from Army officer to systems engineer, tech author, and quantum security pioneer. Tune in for real-world insights, startup wisdom, and a refreshing discussion about making breakthrough technology as easy and intuitive as possible.
Links
Adam's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamfirestone/

Time Stamps
00:00 "Secure Expertise Exchange Process"
04:13 "Insecure File Transfers Persist"
09:22 "Post-Quantum Cryptography Standardization"
12:33 "Decentralized Info Security Solution"
15:29 Adaptive Software Solutions
19:58 "Quantum Awareness Growing Rapidly"
23:36 "Data Vulnerability and Cybersecurity"
25:20 "Simple, Familiar, Trust-Building Design"
30:38 "From Underdog to Innovator"
33:24 Startup's Misstep: Grand Solution Pitfall
35:39 "Quantum Computing & Collaboration Impact"
41:09 "Enabling Tasks Through Technology"
41:54 Decentralized Unified Communications Roadmap
45:09 "From History to Modern Tech"
48:22 "Publishing Revolution with Amazon"
51:57 "Building Influence Through Platforms"
55:07 "Connect with Adam Firestone"

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Adhisha Gammanpila, founder and CEO of Feynman—an innovative company making quantum computing accessible for everyone, no PhD required. Together, they dive into the rapidly evolving quantum landscape, discussing how AI-driven copilots are transforming protein simulation, climate modeling, and drug discovery—tasks that used to take months and now can be accomplished in minutes.
Adhisha Gammanpila shares his journey from university research to launching a platform that abstracts away the complexities of quantum gates, letting scientists focus on their real-world problems instead of getting caught up in the technical details. The conversation explores the intersection of quantum and climate innovation, how AI and quantum are powering new solutions, and what it really takes to build meaningful climate tech in today’s world. They also examine misconceptions about quantum's role in climate change, advice for students and entrepreneurs, and look ahead to the breakthroughs that lie just around the corner.
Whether you’re deeply invested in quantum or just curious about its impact, this episode is full of insights into how quantum and AI, working together, are poised to solve some of our biggest challenges.
Links
Adhisha Gammanpila on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adhisha-gammanpila/

Time Stamps
00:00 "Quantum Computing for Everyone"
04:40 "Building a Quantum Ecosystem"
08:24 "AI-Driven Quantum Computing Copilot"
11:51 "Quantum Chemistry Driving Innovation"
15:10 "Versatile Quantum Coding Platform"
18:17 "Quantum Algorithms for Optimization"
22:49 Emulating Nature for Energy Efficiency
26:03 "Quantum Energy Teleportation Vision"
29:56 "Quantum Computers Misconceptions Explained"
32:01 "Climate Action Starts Locally"
38:06 Sri Lanka's Growing Innovation Ecosystem
39:15 Global Expansion and Collaboration Opportunities
44:15 "Hype, Skepticism, and Innovation"
46:14 "Moving the World Forward"
51:12 "Think Big, Start Small"
52:44 "Gratitude for Today's Discussion"

Today, host Frank La Vigne and guest Candice Gillhoolley dive deep into IonQ’s headline-making billion-dollar acquisitions that are reshaping the quantum landscape. From hardware with Skywater, to quantum networking through Skyloom Global, and even AI-driven software via Seed Innovations, IonQ is assembling a complete quantum ecosystem—building the supply chain of the future, right here and now.
The conversation unpacks the big money flowing into quantum tech, why in-house chip fabrication matters in a world grappling with supply chain vulnerabilities, and what these moves mean for the industry’s evolution. With insights on stock market reactions, defense tech hires, and the urgent quest for quantum-safe security, Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley explain why the next decade will be defined by quantum preparedness.
Plus, they tease the launch of an inspiring new podcast, Women in Quantum, highlighting diverse journeys into the field and the culture-shaping opportunities ahead. Whether you’re quantum curious or watching markets closely, this episode frames why the quantum age is truly dawning—and why it’s time to start thinking quantum safe!
Links
IonQ to buy SkyWater for $1.8 billion to expand hardware capabilities - https://www.reuters.com/technology/ionq-buy-skywater-18-billion-expand-hardware-capabilities-2026-01-26/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
IonQ Finalizes Acquisition of Skyloom Global - https://thequantuminsider.com/2026/01/28/ionq-completes-skyloom-acquisition/
From Visibility to Advantage – Building a Quantum-Safe Intelligence Enterprise https://intelligencecommunitynews.com/ic-insiders-from-visibility-to-advantage-building-a-quantum-safe-intelligence-enterprise/

Time Stamps
00:00 "Reflections on Tech Advancements"
03:35 "Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains"
07:49 "Quantum Industry Supply Chain Ambitions"
11:34 Quantum Tech and Security Trends
15:43 "Funny Daycare Story at NIST"
16:55 "Data Protection & Future Predictions"
22:16 "Winter Boots and School Sneakers"
24:03 "Culture Shapes Opportunities"

In this enlightening episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Benita Zazueta, a leader in quantum-safe initiatives at IBM and a doctoral candidate exploring the intersection of quantum risk and supply chain resilience.
Together, the team tackles the looming threat posed by fault tolerant quantum computers—those machines capable of cracking today's encryption and altering the balance of cybersecurity. Benita Zazueta breaks down complex concepts like “harvest now, decrypt later,” and explains how business leaders, not just researchers and engineers, must prepare for a quantum future. The conversation covers practical strategies for organizations to assess vulnerabilities, foster quantum talent, and transform their security posture without causing panic.
Whether you’re a seasoned technologist, a curious executive, or just starting your quantum journey, this episode delivers actionable insights, fascinating anecdotes, and critical leadership lessons from the front lines of quantum innovation. Tune in and discover how to build resilience, not just protection, in the age of quantum breakthroughs!
Links
IBM Quantum – https://www.ibm.com/quantum
IBM Quantum Safe – https://www.ibm.com/quantum/quantum-safe
Qiskit – https://qiskit.org

Time Stamps
00:00 Quantum Threats and Business Decisions
05:34 "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later"
09:53 "Impending Data Decryption Risks"
12:34 Cyber Resilience Against Future Threats
14:48 Preparing for Quantum Encryption Shift
17:59 Quantum-Safe Supply Chain Security
22:42 Quantum Computing Misconceptions Debunked
26:48 "Internet-Dependent Smart Bed Issues"
27:58 "Driving Innovation Through Core Values"
31:23 "Explore Free Quantum Learning Resources"
36:42 "Application Risk Assessment Process"
39:51 "Securing Supply Chain Software"
41:47 "Quantum Computing's Impact and Race"
48:02 "Ethical Hacking in Perspective"
52:10 "Aerospace Engineer's Flight Story"
55:49 "Quantum Podcasts: Breaking the Mold"