The Only Constant

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with Grant Ecker, a leader in enterprise architecture and founder of the Chief Architect Network. Their candid conversation explores the evolving role of architects in an AI-driven world and challenges some of the prevailing narratives around technology and change:Will specialization disappear as AI takes over more tasks, or will it become even more critical?Are humans shifting from the center of processes to the edge, and what does that mean for our roles?Why comparing AI to past shifts like electricity or cloud computing might miss the pointThe danger of “innovation theater” and how companies can avoid AI becoming just another buzzwordHow organizations can balance the pressure to “fail fast” with the need to protect critical processesDo you want to know more about Grant Ecker?Grant Ecker has recently joined Ecolab as their Vice President of Enterprise Architecture, and he serves as the Founder and Chairman of the Chief Architect Network. Grant joins Ecolab after consulting as an Architecture Vice President at Walgreens. He recently served as the Vice President and Chief Enterprise Architect at Danaher, where he built their Architecture and Artificial Intelligence capabilities.Previously, Grant was the VP of Architecture at Walgreens Boots Alliance, and he held a similar role at Medtronic. Earlier in his career, Grant built EA’s operations at Lowe’s Home Improvement and grew into leadership at General Mills. Grant is a Certified Coach, received his MBA from the Carlson School of Management, his BSCS from Washington University in St. Louis and he holds various board advisory roles out of Chicago, Illinois.Chief architects are encouraged to join him in a non-profit, vendor-neutral and no cost peer collaboration at chiefachitectnetwork.com. Please connect with Grant at LinkedIn.com/in/GrantEcker and follow the network of his peers at linkedin.com/company/ChiefArchitect.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Martin Lassen-Vernal from the City of Copenhagen and Louise Harder Fischer from the IT University of Copenhagen to explore their newly developed methodology for AI adoption: STAIR – Socio-Technical AI Reflection. Their discussion dives deep into how organizations can integrate generative AI while maintaining human values, productivity, and well-being. Here's a quick breakdown of of topics covered in their discussion:The eight core principles of STAIR and why they matter for AI adoptionThe tension between productivity gains and the social impact of AI in workplacesWhy AI shouldn’t just adapt to us—we should make demands of itHow organizations can foster meaningful discussions around AI without stifling innovationThe challenge of navigating AI hype, governance, and ethical concernsWith a mix of critical reflection, real-world implementation, and a few unexpected detours (including the surprising lessons from Denmark’s first webcam experiment), this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating AI’s role in the modern workplace.Do you want to know more about Martin Lassen-Vernal?Martin Lassen-Vernal is a prominent Danish communications professional currently serving as the Head of Communications at the Technical and Environmental Administration in the City of Copenhagen. With over 25 years of experience in public sector communication, he has held leadership roles in organizations like the Capital Region of Denmark and the Danish Institute for Human Rights. His professional expertise spans public relations, digital transformation, and strategic communication.A recognized expert in generative AI's application in communications, Lassen-Vernal has been actively exploring how artificial intelligence can reshape organizational communication strategies. He holds a Master's degree in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Copenhagen and is known for his innovative yet cautious approach to integrating AI technologies. As a thought leader, he frequently speaks at conferences and shares insights on LinkedIn about the intersection of technology, communication, and organizational change.Do you want to know more about Louise Harder Fischer?Louise Harder Fischer holds a PhD and is an Associate Professor at the IT University of Copenhagen, where she also serves as the Program Director for the MSc in Digital Innovation & Management. Her research focuses on sociotechnical changes, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and digital work. Louise is deeply engaged in understanding how AI impacts work processes and knowledge work, as well as how to ensure the responsible and sustainable integration of AI in organizations. She has developed methods that help balance technology with well-being and meaningfulness in the workplace and is actively involved in both academic and professional networks.

Karl Friston, a leading neuroscientist and advisor at Verses AI, discusses fascinating concepts like active inference and non-equilibrium steady states. He explores how these ideas relate to organizational adaptability and the dynamics of change. The conversation critiques superficial innovation in businesses, advocating for meaningful engagement and genuine transformation. Friston highlights the contrast between human curiosity and AI behavior, addressing the critical role of empathy and adaptive systems. Join in for a deep dive into the delicate balance of stability and transformation in both minds and machines.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with Demetrios Brinkmann, founder of the ML Ops Community, about the evolving role of AI agents and the balance between hype and practical applications. Their dynamic conversation dives into the complexities of AI in modern enterprises and the lessons learned from real-world use cases:The current state of AI agents and why stability remains elusiveWhy limiting scope is the key to success in agentic workflowsThe growing challenge of AI governance as tools proliferate across organizationsA provocative discussion on the societal implications of hacking language as a foundational elementThis conversation challenges conventional thinking and offers an unfiltered look at the intersection of technology, hype, and practicality. Perfect for anyone eager to cut through the noise and explore what really matters in the future of AI. Do you want to know more about Jeff Winter?Demetrios is one of the main organizers of the MLOps community and currently resides in a small town outside Frankfurt, Germany. He is an avid traveler who taught English as a second language to see the world and learn about new cultures. Demetrios fell into the Machine Learning Operations world, and since, has interviewed the leading names around MLOps, Data Science, and ML. Since diving into the nitty-gritty of Machine Learning Operations he felt a strong calling to explore the ethical issues surrounding ML. When he is not conducting interviews you can find him making stone stacking with his daughter in the woods or playing the ukulele by the campfire.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Jeff Winter, a globally recognized voice in Industry 4.0 and digital transformation. With over 18 years in industrial automation, Jeff is known for breaking down complex concepts, inspiring audiences from factory floors to boardrooms. Here’s what you’ll take away:Why Jeff calls AI the “Swiss army knife” of business—streamlining decision-making, tasks, and automation.How generative AI is shaping smarter manufacturing systems, from predictive maintenance to factory optimization.The right balance between modernization, optimization, and transformation to make Industry 4.0 work.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the crossroads of technology and transformation.Do you want to know more about Jeff Winter?Jeff Winter is a distinguished expert in Industry 4.0 and digital transformation, with nearly two decades of experience in industrial automation. He has held senior roles at Grantek, Microsoft, and Hitachi Solutions, advising multi-billion-dollar firms on shaping their digital strategies. In September 2024, Jeff joined Critical Manufacturing as Vice President of Business Strategy, driving strategic growth, business development, and helping the company expand its influence in the global manufacturing landscape. Throughout his career, Jeff has been recognized for his ability to simplify complex technological concepts, making them accessible to a wide range of audiences. His active involvement in industry organizations, including serving on the International Board of Directors for MESA International and the International Society of Automation (ISA), underscores his commitment to advancing the manufacturing sector.Jeff's thought leadership is further demonstrated through his substantial online presence, with over 130,000 LinkedIn followers and more than 70 million post impressions, reflecting his dedication to industry engagement and education. His contributions have earned him multiple awards, including #1 Industry 4.0 influencer by Onalytica in 2023, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the field.

Tom Goodwin, a renowned author and innovation leader, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about harnessing technology for meaningful change. He delves into the paradoxes of AI adoption, emphasizing its potential to enhance rather than just comply with existing norms. Goodwin critiques businesses' struggles with disruption and advocates for ‘dynastic planning’ to combat irrelevance. He highlights the importance of questioning whether tech advancements serve our best interests and stresses the need for continuous dialogue in an increasingly digital world.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom is joined by Mathias Kop Balsløw, an experienced technology strategist at Basico. Their discussion dives deep into the evolving relationship between AI technology and practical business applications:The reality behind AI's hype: distinguishing public perception from technological progress.Why understanding business problems remains the most significant bottleneck for adopting AI tools effectively.The evolution of AI as a tool for automation and productivity, rather than a "magic bullet" solution.Exploring the implications of context windows, agents, and the need for clearer business instructions to maximize AI's potential.Matthias's pragmatic take on the future of business automation: a gradual evolution where preparation for AI integration is key.Do you want to know more about Mathias Kop BalsløwMathias Kop Balsløw combines forward-looking innovation with a results-oriented approach to drive impactful transformation. As Director of IT, Digitalisation, and PMO at Basico, he leads strategic initiatives that optimize processes, modernize infrastructure, and unlock the potential of emerging technologies.His expertise spans artificial intelligence, automation, and business transformation, enabling him to deliver tailored solutions that align with both immediate needs and long-term organizational goals. Despite his young age, Mathias has established himself as a highly accomplished professional with a deep understanding of AI, ERP systems, and digitalization.His ability to distill complex technological advancements into practical, actionable strategies positions him as a key figure in bridging the gap between innovation and implementation. Mathias’s leadership continues to redefine how businesses approach technology, ensuring solutions are both cutting-edge and grounded in operational excellence.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Ted Shelton, COO at Inflection, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and human values.What happens when machines don’t just do things but start reflecting who we are, how we think, and what we care about? It’s a conversation that pushes beyond the usual buzzwords, diving into the ethical, practical, and philosophical implications of AI becoming more integrated into our lives and work.Who decides what’s valuable when machines start taking action?Are we too eager to erase life’s “small frictions”—the very moments that make us human?What’s left of us if AI can mimic intelligence, but not the pain, desire, or drive that fuel it?Is the push for AI agents worth the massive effort, or are we overcomplicating the obvious?This isn’t about hype or hand-wringing—it’s a closer look at where AI meets humanity, and whether we’re ready for the stories it’s starting to tell about us.Do you want to know more about Ted Shelton?Having spent 15 years in management consulting, most recently as an Expert Partner for Bain and Company, as of June 2024, Ted Shelton has returned to the software industry. Today he serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Inflection AI, Inc., creators of Pi and one of the top model-building AI companies in the world.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with Søren Friis Alexandersen, Principal Product Owner for Business Central at Microsoft. Their discussion discusses the evolving relationship between AI and enterprise software, uncovering both the practical demands and the philosophical questions posed by the AI shift. Key topics include:The mandate to integrate AI into product backlogs and the pressure it createsStriking a balance between human oversight and AI-driven automationThe philosophical challenges of building trust in systems with "machines that have opinions"Why modern ERP systems must be flexible yet deterministic to meet diverse customer needsHow the pursuit of productivity enables humanity to tackle greater complexitiesDo you want to know more about Søren Friis Alexandersen?Søren Friis Alexandersen is a renowned thought leader in the ERP space, known for his deep expertise and collaborative approach. He's 28 years into his career, and currently a Principal Product Manager at Microsoft in the Dynamics 365 Business Central engineering team, working on Microsoft's core business solution for SMBs, where his mandate is to rethink Finance through the lens of AI. With a distinguished standing in the community, Søren Friis Alexandersen is celebrated not only for his technical acumen but also for his unwavering commitment to openness and continuous learning, always bringing in the human factor into technology. Søren Friis Alexandersen is a strategist at heart, and his leadership is characterized by his ability to bridge the gap between complex technological concepts and practical, human-centered applications. As a lifelong learner, Søren Friis Alexandersen continuously seeks new knowledge and perspectives, fostering a culture of growth and adaptability within his professional circles. He shares the broadly held view that technology can and should improve human lives through increased productivity, though he thinks a lot about what we will do with the productivity gain long term, and how we ensure AI in particular is fair, transparent, and accessible to all.

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Christian Bech Nørhave from the Danish Chamber of Commerce (Dansk Erhverv), engaging in a deep discussion that spans the challenges and opportunities of generative AI in enterprises:Why most Danish companies are still unprepared for generative AI, despite its "iPhone moment" in 2022.The pitfalls of treating AI as a "magic button" rather than a transformative tool.How Danish enterprises leverage structured data systems but often miss the mark on AI-enabled innovation.The balance between automation and maintaining human connection, especially in customer support and workplace dynamics.The societal implications of AI, from educational reforms to regulatory complexities within the EU.Do you want to know more about Christian Bech Nørhave?Christian Bech Nørhave is a prominent figure in the Danish business and technology sector, currently serving as Chief Consultant for AI at The Danish Chamber of Commerce, where he focuses on advising 19.000 companies on AI, and the Danish Government. With nearly two decades of experience in digitalization consulting, he has established himself as an expert in the field, particularly in artificial intelligence. Often referred to as an AI Evangelist and Futurist, Christian Bech Nørhave has dedicated the last 3.5 years exclusively to AI, providing valuable insights to businesses of all sizes. In addition to his consulting work, Christian Bech Nørhave is a sought-after speaker at industry events like the Digital Tech Summit and serves on advisory boards for various companies. His extensive background in digital transformation, combined with his passion for future technologies, positions him as a leading voice in Denmark’s digital landscape.