The AI Edge Podcast Ep 8. Diageo's AI Playbook for 2026, with Mike Ditter
Jan 20, 2026
Mike Ditter, Diageo's Director of AI Strategy and Emerging Technology, shares insights from the CES 2026 floor. He discusses how voice technology is revolutionizing human-AI interactions and the importance of building AI capabilities over simply acquiring tools. Ditter dives into AI-powered content creation while stressing the need for real-world applications within Diageo's iconic brands. He offers pro tips on effective AI adoption and reveals a quirky project involving dinosaur pee for his child, proving that AI can add value even in the most unexpected ways.
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Episode notes
Capability Over Tool Chasing
- AI in 2026 is about building capability, not chasing tools.
- Capability unlocks value across marketing, content, and enterprise workflows.
The Human–AI Interface Is Evolving
- The human–AI interface is evolving beyond typing into LLMs toward richer modalities.
- Voice adds contextual depth and shifts how people will interact with AI daily.
Augment Creatives, Preserve Style
- Use AI to augment creative work, not replace creatives.
- Preserve human style and agency to create work that cuts through a crowded AI-driven landscape.