The Data Diva E231 - Soribel Feliz and Debbie Reynolds

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Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Soribel Feliz, AI Governance, National Security. AI Coach - Ex-Meta. Former Diplomat. We discuss artificial intelligence policy, governance, and its societal implications. Soribel shares her unique career journey, beginning as a U.S. diplomat serving in Europe, South America, and Washington, D.C., before making a bold transition into the tech industry. She provides a behind-the-scenes look at her work at Meta, where she contributed to election integrity and content moderation, and later at Microsoft, where she helped shape the company’s response to the emergence of ChatGPT. She also discusses her time in Congress as a Rapid Response AI Policy Fellow, where she played a crucial role in helping lawmakers understand and regulate AI, leading to her current work in the US goverbment on AI compliance and governance.
Throughout the conversation, Soribel examines the necessity of AI guardrails to mitigate potential harms while fostering innovation. She challenges the notion that regulation stifles technological progress, arguing that responsible AI development is essential to prevent unintended consequences and protect vulnerable populations. She also provides insight into the growing efforts within Congress to improve technological literacy, including specialized fellowships and collaborations with think tanks to ensure more informed policymaking.
Debbie and Soribel also discuss the broader global impact of AI regulations, particularly the EU AI Act, which has set a precedent for risk-based governance. They explore the challenges of implementing age verification laws, weighing the benefits of child protection against the privacy risks and potential barriers to access that such laws may create. Soribel emphasizes the importance of workforce adaptation, noting that as AI reshapes industries, professionals must explore new career paths and leverage transferable skills to remain competitive. Drawing from her expertise as a career coach, she offers valuable advice on transitioning into emerging fields without the need for a complete restart.
The conversation highlights growing concerns over AI’s effects on employment, economic inequality, misinformation, and data privacy. Soribel underscores the importance of making AI discussions more accessible to the public, avoiding overly technical jargon, and focusing on real-world impacts. She warns of the dangers posed by unchecked AI development but also encourages a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the risks and opportunities presented by the technology.

Soribel shares her vision for a future where AI’s economic benefits are more equitably distributed and where technological advancements align with sustainability efforts. She advocates for a more responsible and ethical approach to AI development—one that prioritizes fairness, transparency, and societal well-being.

This episode offers an in-depth look at the most pressing AI policy challenges and the evolving role of governance in shaping the future of technology.

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