Varun Puri, founder of Yoodli, an AI-powered communication training platform, discusses his journey transforming the tool into an enterprise solution. He dives into the challenges of pivoting from consumer to enterprise, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human elements in communication. Varun shares insights on navigating startup culture, team dynamics, and innovative strategies for a remote workforce. He highlights the significance of initiatives like 'Vibes Week' in fostering collaboration while envisioning a future where AI enhances, rather than replaces, personal connections.

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Shri Santhanam, EVP and GM at Experian, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how one of the world's largest data companies is implementing AI at scale. From his early days at Stanford to pioneering Silicon Valley-style innovation in large enterprises, Shri shares insights into Experian's transformation from a traditional credit bureau to a data-backed platform company. The conversation delves into the development of the Experian Assistant, an AI-powered tool revolutionizing how businesses interact with complex financial data, and the critical role of trust in AI adoption. If you're interested in how major financial institutions are navigating the AI revolution while maintaining data privacy and ethical standards, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on the future of trusted AI agents in the workplace.Chapters:[00:00] The Trust Challenge in AI[01:00] Introduction to Shri Santhanam[02:39] Career Journey and Silicon Valley Innovation[04:08] Experian's AI Evolution[06:43] Experian's Business Transformation[10:44] The Experian Assistant[20:01] Internal AI Implementation[23:48] Technical Infrastructure and Model Selection[28:36] The Future: Trusted AgentsConnect with Shri SanthanamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shriramsanthanam Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazyEmail: shift@augmentedailabs.com

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating world of AI-powered visual effects and digital humans with Matthias Wittmann, a leading VFX expert from Digital Domain. From his groundbreaking work on films like Benjamin Button to pioneering autonomous virtual humans, Matthias shares unique insights into how AI is transforming Hollywood and beyond. Learn about the challenges and innovations in creating lifelike digital characters, the future of AI in entertainment, and the unexpected applications of virtual humans in education and companionship. If you're interested in the intersection of AI, visual effects, and the future of digital entertainment, this episode offers an insider's perspective from one of the industry's most innovative studios.Chapters:[00:25] Welcome and Introduction to Matthias Wittmann[01:55] Journey to Digital Domain: Early Career and Animation[05:13] Digital Domain's Legacy in Visual Effects[06:48] AI and Machine Learning in Facial Capture Systems[08:31] The Birth of Autonomous Virtual Humans[15:56] Applications and Future of Digital Humans[25:37] AI Tools in Visual Effects Production[29:23] Text-to-Video Technology and Industry Impact[30:44] Mentors and Career Influences[33:22] The Future: "Exciting Variations"Connect with Matthias WittmannLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthiaswittmann/ Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Kieran Snyder, co-founder of Textio, joins Boaz Ashkenazy to explore the evolving landscape of AI in workplace communications. From her early days combining linguistics and engineering to pioneering bias detection in HR technology, Snyder shares unique insights into the responsible development of AI technologies. The conversation delves into the challenges of bias in large language models, the future of enterprise AI adoption, and observations about how different generations approach AI tools. Drawing from her experience early pre-ChatGPT development and her recent survey of students' AI usage, Snyder offers a thoughtful perspective on the intersection of AI and human labor. Whether you're interested in the future of workplace communication, the challenges of bias in AI, or how the next generation will reshape our relationship with technology, this episode provides valuable insights from someone who has been at the forefront of AI innovation for over a decade.Chapters:[00:00] The Current State of AI Adoption[02:04] Origins and Background: From Engineering to Entrepreneurship[06:52] The Evolution of Textio: From Word Processing to HR Tech[09:36] Generative AI and Early Industry Insights[14:26] Addressing Bias in AI Systems[17:41] The AI Rush: Challenges in Enterprise Adoption[22:12] The Next Generation's Perspective on AI[26:17] AI Policy and Regulation[28:50] Mentorship and the Future of Work[34:33] Looking Ahead: The Actively Emerging FutureConnect with Kieran SnyderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-snyder/ Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazyEmail: shift@augmentedailabs.com

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Sara Vaezy, Chief Transformation Officer at Providence, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore the transformative impact of AI in Healthcare. From Providence's groundbreaking response to the COVID-19 pandemic to their innovative implementation of AI solutions, Vaezy shares insights into how one of America's leading healthcare systems is revolutionizing patient care and clinical workflows. Learn how Providence is tackling healthcare's biggest challenges through AI-powered solutions, from reducing clinician workload to improving patient access and communication. If you're interested in the future of healthcare technology, responsible AI implementation in clinical settings, or the evolution of patient care in the digital age, this episode offers invaluable insights from the frontlines of healthcare innovation. Chapters: [00:00] Early Beginnings: From Music to Healthcare [04:37] The Journey to Providence Healthcare [07:17] Digital Health Acceleration During COVID-19 [13:20] AI Implementation Strategy and Resource Allocation [16:11] Innovation in Patient Message Management [22:06] Navigating Privacy and Technical Challenges [26:50] Strategic Partnerships in Healthcare Innovation [28:47] The Power of Mentorship and Professional Growth [32:18] Future of AI in Healthcare [35:50] Democratizing Healthcare and Work Connect with Sara Vaezy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svaezy/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazy Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Praerit Garg, President of Product and Innovation at Smartsheet, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how AI is revolutionizing enterprise work management. From his journey through Microsoft and AWS to leading innovation at Smartsheet, Garg shares insights into how generative AI is transforming how organizations handle complex workflows and make data-driven decisions. Learn how Smartsheet is using AI to simplify formula creation, automate data analysis, and empower business users to work more efficiently. If you're interested in how AI is reshaping enterprise productivity and the future of work, you won't want to miss this conversation about building trust in AI systems and creating more delightful work experiences. Chapters: 02:09 Journey to Seattle: From India to Microsoft 03:39 The Evolution to Smartsheet Leadership 05:20 The Gift of Generative AI 07:53 Transforming Business User Experience 09:38 Customer Success and Security 16:00 Navigating Non-Deterministic Systems 18:38 Real-World AI Applications 23:50 Leadership Philosophy and Human Alignment 25:56 The Church of Company Culture 31:12 The Future is Super Bright Connect with Praerit Garg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/praerit-garg/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazy Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, host Boaz Ashkenazy sits down with Ramses Alcaide, CEO of Neurable, to explore the groundbreaking intersection of neurotechnology and artificial intelligence. Alcaide shares his journey from fixing computers as a 12-year-old entrepreneur to revolutionizing human-computer interaction through brain-sensing technology. At the heart of their discussion is Neurable's innovative smart headphone technology, which can read brain activity to track focus, prevent burnout, and even enable thought-based device control. From reducing workplace stress to potentially transforming how we diagnose neurological conditions, Alcaide paints a fascinating picture of a future where our minds seamlessly interface with AI to enhance human capabilities. He reveals how their partnership with Master & Dynamic is bringing this technology to consumers through stylish headphones that can help users maintain productivity and achieve better work-life balance. The conversation delves into both immediate applications, like focus tracking and burnout prevention, and longer-term possibilities including AR integration and medical applications. If you're interested in the future of human-computer interaction, workplace wellness, or the convergence of mind and artificial intelligence, this episode offers an enlightening glimpse into how neurotechnology is poised to transform our daily lives. Chapters: 01:45 Introduction and Background 04:37 The Potential of Neurotechnology and Brain-Computer Interfaces 07:41 Use Cases and How Neurotechnology Works 12:40 Updates and Challenges in Neurotechnology 20:01 Positive Outcomes and Future Possibilities 24:06 The Future of Work and AI 25:44 The Importance of Mentorship and Lessons Learned 27:40 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Connect Ramses Alcaide LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pharoramses/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

In this illuminating episode of the Shift AI Podcast, serial entrepreneur Kabir Shahani joins Boaz Ashkenazy to discuss his journey from founding Amperity to launching Amp It Up Ventures. Shahani shares deep insights into building AI-powered enterprises and his unique approach to company creation through his new venture studio. He reveals details about two stealth companies, Adora and Avante, both tackling trillion-dollar markets with innovative AI solutions. From digital advertising to healthcare, Shahani explains how AI is fundamentally shifting business paradigms and why staying ahead of this transformation is crucial for modern enterprises. This episode offers invaluable lessons about entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the future of AI-driven business transformation. Chapters: [00:01:57] Early Days: From Kansas to Seattle [00:07:48] Building Amperity: The Customer-First Approach [00:14:33] The Transition: Leaving Amperity & Starting Anew [00:19:58] Amp It Up Ventures: A New Model [00:24:26] The Playbook Approach [00:27:26] The Two Companies: Adora & Avante [00:36:00] The Three Pillars of Support: Coaches, Mentors & Sponsors [00:39:46] The Future: Paradigm & Enablement Connect with Kabir Shahani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabirshahani/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazy Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Christy Johnson, CEO of Artemis Connection and former McKinsey consultant, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how companies can create more flexible, inclusive workplaces while maintaining high performance. Drawing from her journey from high school teacher to McKinsey consultant to CEO, Johnson shares insights on revolutionizing traditional consulting models, embracing AI in the workplace, and fostering human potential. You want to make sure you get in on this conversation if you're interested in the intersection of AI, workplace flexibility, and maintaining high expectations in the evolving business landscape. Chapters: [00:00:00] Setting High Expectations in the Age of AI [00:02:01] From Teaching Math to McKinsey: Christy's Journey [00:05:03] Growing Up Entrepreneurial in Washington State [00:09:16] The Birth of Artemis Connection [00:13:40] Reimagining Workplace Flexibility and Talent [00:17:44] AI's Impact on Future Work Models [00:19:53] Teaching Entrepreneurship in the AI Era [00:23:14] The Power of Mentorship and Apprenticeship [00:26:04] Supporting Women in Business Leadership [00:31:19] High Expectations: The Future of Work Connect with Christy Johnson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyjohnsonwel/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazy Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, host Boaz Ashkenazy is joined by two pioneering experts in AI security and ethics: David Danks, Professor of Data Science and Philosophy at UC San Diego, and Zhou Li, founder and CEO of HydroX AI. Together, they explore the critical intersection of AI adoption, security, and trust in an era of unprecedented technological change. Drawing from their extensive experience at leading tech companies and academic institutions, Danks and Li offer unique insights into why AI security must be built into systems from the ground up, rather than added as an afterthought. They discuss real-world security risks while emphasizing the importance of human values in AI system design. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as they explore how the traditional cybersecurity paradigm is being reimagined for the AI age. If you're interested in understanding how organizations can safely adopt AI while managing risks and building trust, this episode provides essential insights from two leaders at the forefront of AI safety and ethics. Chapters: [00:00:00] Opening Thoughts on AI's Rapid Evolution [00:01:43] Introduction to Our Distinguished Guests [00:03:35] First Jobs and Career Beginnings [00:05:19] The Evolution of AI Ethics and Trust [00:10:35] Security Experience at Tech Giants [00:13:48] Current State of AI Adoption [00:20:51] Real-world AI Security Risks and Threats [00:28:57] Mentorship and Inspiration [00:32:35] Future of Work: Two-Word Predictions Connect with David Danks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-danks-21538613/ Connect with Zhuo Li LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhuo-li-4830a145/ Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy X: boazashkenazy Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai