Show cover of AI or Not

AI or Not

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where digital transformation meets real-world wisdom, hosted by Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of guiding the top echelons of corporate, public and private sectors through the ever-evolving digital landscape, Pamela, CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is your expert navigator in the exploration of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber, data, and ethical decision-making. This show demystifies the complexities of AI, digital disruption, and emerging technologies, focusing on their impact on business strategies, governance, product innovations, and societal well-being. Whether you're a professional seeking to leverage AI for sustainable growth, a leader aiming to navigate the digital terrain ethically, or an innovator looking to make a meaningful impact, "AI or Not" offers a unique blend of insights, experiences, and discussions that illuminate the path forward in the digital age. Join us as we delve into the world where technology meets humanity, with Pamela Isom leading the conversation.

Tracks

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Discover the transformative power of digital evolution in this compelling episode of "AI or Not," featuring Tony Moroney, a leading authority on digital transformation. Throughout Tony’s storied career, from the financial sector to spearheading a digital transformation lab, he has championed the notion that true transformation hinges on human empowerment, not just technology. We'll unpack Tony’s invaluable insights on educating future leaders and navigating the often misunderstood landscape of digital transformation, sharing a wealth of knowledge on leveraging emerging technologies to overcome mission-critical challenges.As we explore the intricate dance between AI and the workforce, you'll learn why AI should be seen as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement. We tackle the fears surrounding job displacement, emphasizing the importance of training, context, and involvement in fostering a secure and future-ready workforce. Tony and I emphasize that clear communication and engagement are key to helping employees understand the long-term benefits and opportunities AI and digital transformation can offer, turning apprehension into excitement and readiness for the future.Leadership plays a crucial role in successful digital transformation, and this episode sheds light on the pivotal responsibilities of senior executives. We discuss bridging the gap between digital natives and middle management, removing silos, and ensuring responsible use of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT. Through strategic adoption and a focus on privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity, we provide a roadmap for creating a collaborative environment where technology serves as a true enabler of transformation. Join us for a journey filled with strategies, insights, and real-world applications to empower organizations to thrive in the digital age.

11/26/24 • 44:18

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Danyetta Fleming Megana, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Covenant Security Solutions Incorporated. From her unexpected start as a civil engineer to becoming a global authority in cybersecurity, Danyetta's journey is nothing short of inspirational. She gives us a rare glimpse into the early days of information security, the mentors who propelled her forward, and the global expansion of her company. Danyetta also parallels the growth of cybersecurity with the evolution of artificial intelligence, offering insights into regional differences in data regulation and security.In another captivating segment, we tackle the critical yet often ignored aspect of secure product development. In the rush to bring new software products to market, security is frequently an afterthought. We advocate for a holistic approach that contemplates potential vulnerabilities from diverse perspectives. With a focus on the risks of using internet-derived or AI-generated code, we draw connections to the historical issues of data oversharing and current concerns about AI and data security. This segment underscores the necessity of embedding ethical considerations and robust security measures into the development process for truly reliable software products.Finally, we delve into the vital role of cybersecurity training and policy development. Highlighting foundational controls like NIST standards and CMMC-1, we emphasize the importance of AI policy, ethics, and lifecycle management in modern training programs. We also discuss a collaborative initiative offering workshops on AI and cybersecurity to equip organizations with the knowledge to tackle emerging threats. The episode wraps up with a sobering look at the blurred lines between reality and digital threats, stressing the importance of personal connections and open communication to combat AI-driven malicious activities. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

11/19/24 • 35:55

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.What if AI could be the key to unlocking the secrets of the universe and revolutionizing national security? Join us on AI or Not as we sit down with Brian Spears, Director, AI Innovation Incubator (AI3) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a trailblazer in computational science and AI , who has been at the forefront of monumental breakthroughs like the historic fusion ignition in 2022. Brian shares his journey from designing nuclear fusion experiments to leading AI strategy efforts, and he dives into the game-changing potential of AI in scientific research, material discovery, and smart manufacturing.Discover the cutting-edge advancements in AI-driven science within the Department of Energy, including remarkable efforts like redesigning COVID antibodies and pushing the boundaries of cancer therapy. Learn about the groundbreaking Frontier AI for Science, Security, and Technology Initiative (FAST), which aims to revolutionize scientific research and national security through big data and advanced computing. We underscore the urgent need to expand the AI and computer science workforce to keep the United States technologically competitive.As we wrap up, we tackle the pressing issue of ethical transparency in AI. From personal anecdotes about intrusive driving behavior tracking apps to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private industry, Brian and I emphasize the necessity of transparent and ethical AI development. We also reflect on the importance of persistence, patience, and strategic leadership in AI, celebrating the pivotal contributions of the National Lab in advancing scientific AI. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of AI and the ethical considerations that come with it.

11/12/24 • 39:03

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Ready to gain a wealth of knowledge from a seasoned expert in cybersecurity and consulting? We've got Tony Carrato, Board Member, Board Advisor, Independent Consultant, a trailblazer whose career spans from the United States Air Force to influential roles at SAIC, EDS, and IBM, sharing his incredible journey. He reveals his evolution into independent consulting, the importance of participating in user groups and standards organizations, and his international adventures, including a unique stint with the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Currently embracing semi-retirement, Tony’s insights on serving both for-profit and nonprofit boards are invaluable, offering a master class in balancing passion with professional responsibilities.Continuous learning is a cornerstone in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, and Tony uncovers essential strategies for staying ahead. From self-assessment to defining career objectives, flexibility is key to thriving in roles like security architecture, management, or consulting. Tony’s advice on building a diverse skill set, understanding the nuances of corporate versus nonprofit boards, and the critical role of military service in professional growth provides listeners with a robust framework for career development in cybersecurity.Ever wondered how to bridge technical prowess with business savvy? Tony dives into navigating various cybersecurity career paths, understanding AI’s risks and benefits, and reevaluating hiring practices. He underscores the importance of effective communication with non-technical stakeholders and the balance between technical skills and business acumen. As we explore AI's dual nature, Tony’s perspectives on skill-based hiring and personal branding will reshape your approach to career advancement in the tech industry. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights and practical advice that’s bound to elevate your professional game.

11/5/24 • 43:49

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Ever wonder how a career in e-commerce can lead to becoming a leading advocate for data privacy? Join us as we chat with Kohei Kurihara, the co-founder and CEO of Privacy by Design Lab, who shares his unique entrepreneurial journey. From his beginnings at a major Japanese e-commerce company to launching a manga and anime crowdfunding platform, Kohei navigates us through his pivot to international marketing and his impactful work with blockchain organizations. Gain insights into his realization of data categorization's crucial role in innovation and how this inspired him to create a privacy-focused community, culminating in the Privacy by Design Conference.In the latter part of the episode, we unravel the complex world of data transfer and privacy governance, spotlighting TikTok as a case study. Explore the multifaceted challenges of international data protection and the implications for national security. Kohei emphasizes the significance of data categorization, understanding data lineage, and ensuring governance to prevent misuse. We also discuss Japan's AI guidelines, which promote transparency, privacy protection, and human-centric design. Exciting AI innovations that prioritize privacy and data minimization are paving the way for more accurate and trustworthy user interactions, making this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating the digital landscape.

10/29/24 • 36:40

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Can AI be a force for good in healthcare, education, and even climate change? Find out as we sit down with Joyce Hunter, Executive Director, ICIT (Institute for Critical Infrastructure Technology), a pioneering IT expert whose career trajectory took unexpected turns, leading her to become a thought leader in AI ethics. Joyce’s unique journey from sociology and marketing to data analysis at Hallmark and specialized training at Xerox showcases the unpredictable paths that can lead to groundbreaking work in technology. Her early fascination with AI, sparked by classic sci-fi films like "2001: A Space Odyssey" and TV shows like "Star Trek," serves as a compelling backdrop to our conversation on the real-world applications and ethical considerations of AI.Explore the transformative power of AI across different sectors with us. In healthcare, Joyce explains how AI can revolutionize preventive care and speed up drug discovery by leveraging medical images and genetic data. We also discuss how AI can aid in disaster preparedness through environmental monitoring and satellite data, and how adaptive learning can create personalized educational experiences for diverse student needs. A real-life orthodontics example highlights the critical role of human accountability despite the advances in AI technology.As we navigate the complexities of AI transparency, Joyce emphasizes the importance of using diverse and representative data to minimize bias and ensure fairness. Our discussion covers the necessity for regular data audits, transparent models, and the global standards for AI governance exemplified by the EU AI Act. Joyce offers valuable insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and seizing opportunities, leaving you with not only a deeper understanding of AI ethics but also inspiration to embrace new possibilities in your own career. "Live long and prosper" as you embark on this enlightening journey with us.

10/22/24 • 43:47

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.What if technology could revolutionize government, industry, and academia all at once? Join us for a riveting conversation with Tom Suter, the visionary founder and president of ATARC and CEO of Alethia Labs. Tom, who likes to think of himself as a technology Sherpa, takes us through his incredible journey—from his early days inspired by an entrepreneurial uncle, to pioneering efforts in telecommunications at the dawn of the internet, and his innovative work in mobility and cloud computing. Discover how he established ATARC to bridge critical sectors, addressing complex tech issues like AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. Tom also shares the strategic evolution of ATARC, including its impactful partnership with GovExec.Ever wondered how AI can impact everything from military operations to everyday tasks? This episode dives into the transformative power of AI, showcasing projects that range from computer vision for safety enhancements to the military's ambitious CJAT-C2 data synthesis project. We discuss how AI is improving flight scheduling, reducing bureaucratic paperwork, and making significant advancements in computer vision technology. The conversation underscores the practical benefits of AI, emphasizing both large-scale and smaller, yet impactful, applications that demonstrate AI's profound potential in solving real-world problems.The future of AI in a free society is a crucial topic, and Tom provides a compelling contrast between responsible AI development and surveillance-heavy approaches like China's. We explore the importance of international collaboration to establish ethical AI practices and the efforts of the Department of Defense's Responsible AI Community of Interests. Finally, we discuss the transformative potential of technology for long-term productivity and prosperity, stressing the need for a balance between rapid technological advancements and human elements. Join us as we envision a sustainable future driven by innovative yet responsible tech practices.

10/15/24 • 32:58

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Can AI truly revolutionize the workplace, enhancing both compliance and operational efficiency? Lindsey Wagner joins us to unravel this intriguing question. Lindsey Wagner, Esq., AWI-CH, CIPP/US, is the Managing Partner of Wagner Legal, PC, an employment law firm who focuses her practice on AI Compliance in the Workplace, Data Privacy, Workplace Investigations. With her rich background in employment litigation, Lindsey takes us on a journey, shedding light on how AI tools are reshaping workplace practices, from adhering to discrimination laws to boosting productivity. We delve into real-world examples, illustrating AI's dual potential to drive positive outcomes and present complex challenges.Our discussion takes a deeper turn as we explore the critical balance between leveraging AI and maintaining data privacy and confidentiality. We examine professionals' ethical responsibilities, especially in regulated fields like law. As a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US), Lindsey shares insights on how smaller, specialized language models can offer enhanced control and compliance, helping businesses navigate the murky waters of AI integration without compromising sensitive information. The importance of vigilant data handling and the ethical use of AI in everyday business tools is underscored throughout our conversation.Shifting gears, we emphasize the necessity for clear AI policies and comprehensive employee training programs. Lindsey draws parallels to the mandatory training brought about by the Me Too movement, highlighting that policies alone are not enough without proper education. From innovative sandbox environments for safe AI experimentation to the continuous need for upskilling, we discuss how businesses can stay ahead in the evolving AI landscape. This episode is packed with practical advice and thought-provoking insights, ensuring you're well-equipped to harness the power of AI responsibly in your organization. 

10/8/24 • 43:17

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.What happens when a Java developer from IBM transitions into a leadership role at one of the nation's top universities? Join us as we chat with Kimberly Greene Starks, Executive Director of Digital Transformation and Digital Strategies at Vanderbilt University, who shares her incredible journey from hardware to software development and beyond. Kimberly talks about her unwavering dedication to innovation, the critical balance between technical skills and formal education, and the transformative power of continuous learning. She offers invaluable insights into developing essential communication and collaboration skills, which are pivotal for personal and professional growth.Discover how emerging technologies like natural language processing (NLP) are revolutionizing the way universities manage IT service documents, saving time and resources while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human oversight. Kimberly discusses practical applications of these technologies and the importance of self-directed learning, encouraging everyone to take control of their educational path. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories that highlight the significance of upskilling across communities and balancing technical prowess with higher education for both individual and societal advancement. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!

10/1/24 • 26:56

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Curious about the future of artificial intelligence in the realm of cybersecurity? We welcome Greg Sisson, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO), CI-Discern,a seasoned cyber executive with a remarkable 40-year career in public service, including the US Army and various government agencies. Greg takes us through his transition from government roles to entrepreneurship and shares the inspiring motivations behind co-founding CI Design. Learn how understanding an organization's mission and its stakeholders is crucial in navigating the risks and seizing the opportunities presented by digital transformation. Personal milestones, such as the birth of his granddaughter, also played a significant role in shaping Greg's career decisions.Discover why data is the crown jewel of the AI era, surpassing the value of hardware and software. We discuss the pivotal roles of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and Chief Data Officers (CDOs) in protecting this invaluable asset. Hear Greg's insights on the importance of a collaborative approach between these roles to safeguard data effectively. Amid the rising tide of data breaches, maintaining consumer trust through timely and transparent communication is more important than ever. Don't miss out on learning about robust data loss prevention measures that every organization should prioritize to prevent breaches from becoming the norm.Get ready to explore the dual-edged sword of AI technologies, from deep fakes to adversarial AI threats. We delve into the complexities of AI governance and compliance, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and human oversight to maintain ethical standards. Greg sheds light on the critical intersection of software bill of materials (SBOM) and AI, and the importance of securing language models against adversarial attacks. Finally, we discuss the shift from being the office of "no" to the office of "know," emphasizing the importance of collaboration, education, and a balanced approach to AI's benefits and challenges. Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and digital transformation.

9/17/24 • 39:30

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.What happens when artificial intelligence meets the cutting edge of cybersecurity? In this episode of AI or Not, we sit down with Opeyemi Kolowole, a respected red team operator and ethical hacker, to uncover the fascinating interplay between AI and red teaming. Opeyemi shares his rich journey from penetration testing to his current role, and even gives us a peek into his personal interests, like playing soccer and chess. This episode promises an engaging blend of professional insights and practical advice for anyone interested in the cybersecurity landscape.Opeyemi delves into the dual nature of AI in cybersecurity, highlighting how it enhances efficiency through automation while also presenting new vulnerabilities. He sheds light on the necessity of human oversight to ensure the accuracy of AI-generated results and the potential pitfalls when cyber adversaries exploit these technologies. The conversation covers intriguing topics like the concept of "jailbreaking" AI systems such as ChatGPT, and offers a balanced view of the benefits and risks of integrating AI into red teaming practices. It's an eye-opening discussion that emphasizes the indispensable role of ethical considerations in this fast-evolving field.We wrap up the episode by exploring the critical importance of continuous learning and ethical conduct in cybersecurity. Opeyemi underscores the value of obtaining specialized certifications to stay ahead of advanced persistent threats (APTs) and the rapid advancements in AI technologies. He shares practical tips on setting learning goals, embracing areas of weakness, and the necessity of ongoing education. For those eager to thrive in the dynamic world of cybersecurity, this episode offers invaluable guidance on maintaining personal well-being and professional excellence amid the industry's high demands.

9/3/24 • 25:32

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Unlock the secrets to successfully blending business goals with cutting-edge AI technology in our latest episode of AI or Not. Join us as Kiat Neo, Sr. Manager, Solutions Architect Executive, GDIT,  shares his expert insights on leveraging enterprise architecture to align AI solutions with strategic business objectives. Discover why AI should be seen as more than just an IT function and how to evaluate its suitability for tackling specific challenges. Kiat provides practical strategies on maximizing return on investment in digital transformation initiatives, ensuring your organization not only keeps up with the times but gains a competitive edge.We also take a deep dive into the ethical dimensions of AI in healthcare. From AI's role in recognizing and categorizing COVID-19 symptoms to assisting in 911 call handling, we explore real-world examples that highlight the essential balance between human judgment and AI predictions. Kiat stresses the importance of ethical use and integrity in AI technologies to prevent potential harm. Listen in as we tackle pressing questions about what keeps us up at night regarding AI and what gives us peace of mind, emphasizing the crucial interplay between ethical applications and the human element in AI-driven decision-making.

8/20/24 • 22:19

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.What if your data could truly reflect the diversity of human experience? In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Brenna Coppola Milner, a seasoned account manager and data-driven solutionist, to discuss her fascinating career journey from a marketing graduate to a tech sales professional. Brenna sheds light on the pivotal role of relationship-building in sales and why starting in a business development role can be a game-changer for anyone looking to break into the tech industry. She also shares her views on the transformative potential of AI and emerging technologies, emphasizing the urgency of democratizing data to ease public fears and soothe digital anxiety among business leaders.We then confront one of the most pressing issues in tech today: unintentional discrimination. Through compelling real-world examples, Brenna tackles the biases inherent in AI and tech development—like soap dispensers that don't recognize darker skin tones and facial recognition systems that fail people of color at airports. These anecdotes not only highlight the need for inclusive design but also underscore the critical role that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI and A) play in combating these biases and preventing the spread of misinformation and disinformation.Finally, we explore the often-overlooked concept of diverse data lineage and its impact on bias amplification in AI systems. Brenna underscores the importance of diverse teams in data processing to catch and correct errors early, particularly in high-stakes fields like healthcare. She also delves into the broader implications on mental health and workplace performance, explaining how stereotypes fueled by inaccurate data can be detrimental. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how accurate data and inclusive practices are central to driving digital transformation and creating a positive, productive work

8/6/24 • 26:03

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Can artificial intelligence revolutionize national security? Angela Sheffield, with her extensive background in applied mathematics and operations research, believes it can. In this episode of "AI or Not," Angela shares her extraordinary journey to pivotal roles at the US Department of Energy and the Department of Defense, offering us a front-row seat to the diverse applications of AI in defense. From streamlining administrative tasks to enhancing warfighting capabilities, Angela sheds light on how leveraging commercial AI advancements can significantly improve decision-making and operational efficiency both in the boardroom and on the battlefield.Bridging the notorious "valley of death" in the national security science and technology sector is no small feat. Angela discusses the vital importance of recruiting talent from research institutions and reimagining internal teams and collaboration methods to ensure research continuity and practical implementation. She emphasizes the necessity of data-driven decision-making and the benefits of digital modernization and cloud technologies, particularly in observing and optimizing new capabilities. This conversation provides invaluable insights into the challenges of transitioning groundbreaking research from national laboratories to practical applications in the defense and federal space.Trust in new technologies is essential, especially in the context of digital transformation in both military and civilian government sectors. Angela delves into the necessity for process changes and the importance of trust among soldiers and operators towards new technologies. The discussion extends to advancements in digital transformation within health and financial services, reflecting on the progress in governmental sectors outside of defense. By addressing complex problems through low-hanging fruit and leveraging resources effectively, Angela shares how significant progress can be made with strategic foresight and practical problem-solving approaches. Join us for this thought-provoking episode, where mission-driven efforts in AI and digital modernization are explored in depth.

7/23/24 • 40:19

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.Prepare to be enthralled by the profound insights of Julie Schroeder, atrailblazing Chief Legal Officer, as she shares her riveting transformation fromtrial and appellate lawyer to an advisor for tech titans who happens to also be alawyer. Her pioneering efforts in healthcare IT and natural language processingpredate the AI boom by decades, setting the stage for a deep dive into the worldof data and expertise needed for of most companies to properly use and protectdata on a global level, as well as AI/ ML and cybersecurity. Julie’s narrative is notjust her own; the story of a digital landscape in constant flux, wherecybersecurity emerges as a critical linchpin for business continuity and theprotection of our most sensitive data.Our conversation with Julie doesn't shy away from the hard-hitting challenges and ample opportunities that cybersecurity presents. Together, we explore the pressing need for specialized education and the integration of data and AI into cybersecurity strategies. Security breaches aren't just about data theft; they're a sobering reminder of our vulnerabilities in an interconnected world. Julie's expertise brings to light the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding our digital transformation journey and the ethical implications that come with stewarding vast amounts of data.As we navigate the complex terrain of AI, Julie imparts wisdom on the ethical use of data and the potential pitfalls of over-reliance on algorithms. The balance between human oversight and technological advancement is a delicate dance, one that requires constant vigilance and education. In this episode, we not only dissect the intricacies of AI's role in cybersecurity but also confront the broader questions of data ownership and security. Whether you're a professional in the tech field or simply captivated by the evolving digital age, Julie's expertise offers a valuable compass for steering through the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape.

7/9/24 • 50:58

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, data management, and ethical decision-making. Our AI or Not guest is Kathleen Wisemandle, MSLOC, DOEC, Founder and CEO, Aspire to Grow Coaching & Consulting LLC.When Kathleen Wisemandle decided to swap her seasoned biopharma expertise for the entrepreneurial roller coaster, she wasn't just making a career switch—she was embracing a life philosophy of no regrets and full-throttle potential. On our show, Kathleen, the powerhouse behind Aspire to Grow Coaching and Consulting LLC, takes us through her journey of sparking change and nurturing leaders in the tech-savvy biotech landscape. Our conversation is a treasure trove for CEOs, nonprofit mavens, and women at the helm, filled with insights on fostering innovation without losing one's authentic self.Imagine a workspace where human connections flourish, even through screens and across time zones. This episode examines the art of closing the physical gap with digital bridges, as Kathleen and I dissect the importance of camaraderie and open dialogue in remote teams. It's a candid look at how these bonds don't just boost morale but are the lifeline for well-being and job satisfaction. We share our experiences with keeping the human touch alive in a digital era and ponder over the rich implications of connection for personal and organizational health.Wrapping up, we turn our gaze to the horizon where technology meets personal growth. Here, we celebrate the power of entrepreneurial communities and AI tools like ChatGPT, discussing how they can reshape information channels and support business innovation. Kathleen and I also confront the challenges women still face in attaining equity in the corporate world, emphasizing the fight for diverse perspectives in boardrooms and beyond. Our dialogue is a heartfelt reminder of the role authentic relationships play in overcoming modern hurdles—like the widespread epidemic of loneliness—leaving us grateful for the wisdom shared and the connections made, and eager to continue this enriching exchange.

6/25/24 • 38:48

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Debbie Reynolds, "The Data Diva," to discuss the nuances of data privacy and governance in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. A trailblazer who transitioned from library science to becoming a tech titan, Debbie shares her deep insights on the complex interplay between AI and ethical responsibility. We explore her career journey, from her initial encounters with privacy issues that catapulted her to becoming a revered advisor for industry giants, to her current role.The discussion unfolds as a treasure trove of insights for businesses at the edge of AI integration. Debbie meticulously explains how AI can be effectively harnessed for low-risk tasks to circumvent the pitfalls of regulatory challenges, while ensuring high-stakes applications are managed with the highest ethical standards. We delve into the common misconceptions about AI, highlighting that many errors attributed to the technology are, in fact, human oversights, and emphasize the crucial role of rigorous testing and clear understanding of the limits of AI tools.As our conversation reaches its peak, we focus on the critical aspects of AI governance amidst the digital transformation of business. Debbie underscores the importance of a robust governance framework and asset management and stresses the need for continuous vigilance and expertise in an era of rapidly advancing AI systems. By the end of this episode, listeners will gain a nuanced understanding of the delicate balance required to manage the disruptive capabilities of AI with the seasoned wisdom of human oversight, all under the vigilant guidelines of regulations like the European AI Act. Tune in to elevate your perspective on the global impact and ethical considerations of AI governance.

6/11/24 • 35:23

Hello and welcome to AI or Not, a podcast where business leaders from around the globe share wisdom and insights that are needed now to address issues and guide success in your artificial intelligence and digital transformation journey. My name is Pamela Isom. I'm your podcast host. 

5/1/24 • 00:31