

Digitally Curious
with Actionable Futurist® Andrew Grill
Digitally Curious is a show all about the near-term future with actionable advice from a range of global experts Order the book that showcases these episodes at https://curious.click/orderYour host is leading Futurist and AI Expert Andrew Grill, a dynamic and visionary tech leader with over three decades of experience steering technology companies towards innovative success.Known for his captivating global keynotes, Andrew offers practical and actionable advice, making him a trusted advisor at the board level for companies such as Vodafone, Adobe, DHL, Nike, Nestle, Bupa, Wella, Mars, Sanofi, Dell Technologies, and the NHS.His new book “Digitally Curious”, from Wiley delves into how technology intertwines with society’s fabric and provides actionable advice for any audience across a broad range of topics.A former Global Managing Partner at IBM, five-time TEDx speaker, and someone who has performed more than 550 times on the world stage, he is no stranger to providing strategic advice to senior leaders across multiple industries.Andrew’s unique blend of an engineering background, digital advocacy, and thought leadership positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the future of technology.Find out more about Andrew at actionablefuturist.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 8, 2023 • 27min
S5 Episode 24: Transforming the Legal Industry: The Role and Impact of AI with Jaeger Glucina from Luminance
The world of law is not immune to the sweeping changes brought about by technological advancements, specifically the advent of Artificial Intelligence. In a fascinating discussion with Jaeger Glucina, Chief of Staff at Luminance, we delve into how AI is reshaping the legal industry and creating new possibilities for efficiency and accuracy in legal processes.Built on a proprietary legal Large Language Model (LLM), Luminance uses next-generation AI to automate the generation, negotiation and analysis of contracts. Developed by world-leading AI experts and validated by leading lawyers, Luminance’s specialist ‘legal-grade’ AI is a trusted co-pilot for any legal team.From taking a first pass review of any contract under negotiation, to a first-of-its-kind AI chatbot for redrafting clauses on-the-fly and an intelligent contract repository for granular insight into any contractual landscape, Luminance brings AI to every touchpoint a lawyer has with their documents.A key area of focus in this conversation is the revolutionary role of AI in contract drafting and reviewing. Luminance is leading the way by using a combination of generative and analytical AI to improve accuracy and efficiency in these areas. This technology allows for the identification of risk elements in contracts and the generation of drafts with simple prompts. As Jaeger highlights, this is a significant shift from traditional legal processes and has the potential to greatly improve the working lives of lawyers and legal professionals.One of the fascinating aspects of AI's integration into the legal sector is its potential to redefine traditional business models. A significant shift is taking place in how lawyers bill for their services. AI is introducing opportunities for automation, leading to a drastic reduction in time spent on certain tasks. This change is influencing the billing model in the legal industry, moving away from hourly billing towards value-based pricing.As the legal industry continues to embrace AI, there's a growing need for digital literacy among legal professionals. The integration of AI into legal processes requires a workforce that understands and can effectively utilize these new tools. Jaeger underscores the importance of equipping legal professionals with the necessary digital skills to harness the full potential of AI in their work.More on JaegerJaeger on LinkedInJaeger on TwitterLuminance websiteThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

Sep 7, 2023 • 45min
S5 Episode 23: Shaping the Future of Enterprise-Grade AI with Umesh Sachdev of Uniphore
Imagine a world where AI seamlessly integrates into your daily workflows, driving productivity gains, efficiency increases, and automation. AI and in particular Generative AI is all over the media, and now companies are looking at how they should be introducing AI into the enterprise.While Generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT have been trained on publicly available data, they may not be suitable for always-on and mission-critical systems. So what’s the opportunity for enterprise-grade AI?To answer this question, I’m delighted to have on this episode Umesh Sachdev, CEO of Uniphore, an Enterprise-class, AI-native company that has set out to transform businesses delivering compelling and engaging customer and employee experiences.As we navigate the exciting yet challenging landscape of AI, we discuss potential pitfalls along the way. Umesh candidly shares insights into vital areas like regulation, data security, and total cost of ownership.We dive into how regulation is necessary, including guardrails for AI ensuring ethical use of public data, and protecting against biases and inappropriate use. Umesh also provided three actionable steps to ready your business for the AI revolution.More on UmeshUmesh on LinkedInUmesh on XResources MentionedJolt Effect, The: How High Performers Overcome Customer IndecisionUniphore websiteThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

Aug 26, 2023 • 19min
S5 Episode 22: Navigating the World of Artificial General Intelligence with Peter Voss from Aigo.ai
Can machines really think like humans? What is the future of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) when machines more closely resemble human behaviour than ever before? In this episode, Peter unveils his journey into the realm of AGI and his vision of machines possessing the ability to think, learn, and reason like humans. We look at the intricacies of general AI and how it sets itself apart from narrow AI.The episode also looks at how companies are tackling the immense challenges associated with crafting machines with general intelligence - from understanding the significance of concept formation in artificial general intelligence to discussing the role of quantum computing and resources in AI development.Peter also provided his views on the potential of machines developing empathy and the role of AI in ethical and moral debates, and answers the questions I've always wanted to ask - can AI feel empathy and love? Finally, we take a peek into the future as Peter shares how Aigo.ai is harnessing the power of conversational AI to revolutionize personalised experiences. More on PeterPeter on LinkedInPeter on MediumAigo websitePeter Voss is the world's foremost authority in Artificial General Intelligence. He coined the term 'AGI' in 2001 and published a book on Artificial General Intelligence in 2002. He is a Serial AI entrepreneur, technology innovator who has for the past 20 years been dedicated to advancing Artificial General Intelligence. Peter Voss' careers include being an entrepreneur, engineer and scientist. His experience includes founding and growing a technology company from zero to a 400-person IPO. For the past 20 years, his focus has been on developing AGI (artificial general intelligence). In 2008 Peter founded Smart Action Company, which offers the only call automation solution powered by an AGI engine. He is now CEO & Chief Scientist at Aigo.ai Inc., which is developing and selling increasingly advanced AGI systems for large enterprise customers. Peter also has a keen interest in the inter-relationship between philosophy, psychology, ethics, futurism, and computer science.Thanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

Aug 19, 2023 • 25min
S5 Episode 21: The Ethics and Implications of Data Privacy in the Digital World with Anton Christodoulou from Imagination
In the race to dominate Al we have seen our data privacy, democracy, and even our human rights impacted. To understand what brands and consumers need to do to fight back, I spoke with Anton Christodoulou, Group Chief Technology Officer at leading experiential design company, Imagination and co-founder of the new Trust 3.0 initiative.The Trust 3.0 initiative is a Data Privacy Advocacy Group convening the brightest minds in privacy, AI, and technology to champion responsible innovation for a safer society.I’m proud to say that I’m also a part of this timely initiative.Anton is responsible for overseeing Imagination's global technology strategy, project and service delivery execution; to deliver immersive, engaging and measurable experiences to clients including Mastercard, Ford, Major League Baseball, Jaguar Land Rover and Shell. I started our discussion by asking Anton more about Trust 3.0 and why it has been set up.This episode looks at its implications on data privacy for consumers and businesses and offers a deep dive into the necessity of transparency, security, and fair exchange of value in handling customer data. We also discuss how businesses can leverage this to promote trust and security.More on AntonAnton on LinkedInImagination websiteTrust 3.0 websiteThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

Aug 13, 2023 • 38min
S5 Episode 20: Unraveling the Future of Self-Sovereign Identity with Marie Wallace from Accenture
Consumers are beginning to understand that their personal data has real value, but it is still held in the hands of big technology companies. The promise of consumers managing and owning their own data will become a reality thanks to decentralised or self-sovereign identity (SSI).To delve into this topic, I'm delighted to welcome onto the podcast Marie Wallace, Digital Identity Lead at Accenture.Marie and I both had the chance to work together at IBM and I've always enjoyed our discussions about analytics and data, and this conversation explains SSI in a very accessible way.Self-Sovereign Identity, or decentralized identity, is a model where individuals have full control over their personal data.During the episode, Marie debunked the common myth that implementing this model necessitates a blockchain, and we looked at the concept of "streaming trust".We also looked at Marie's instrumental role in projects like IBM's Digital Health Pass and New York's Excelsior Pass during the pandemic.A fascinating part of the discussion revolved around the concept of verifiable data, and the potential of AI in offering personalised career advice, primed with our own personal data.We also examined how companies might interact with customers to provide incentives for releasing individual data and how LinkedIn is starting to verify profiles to allow individuals to have more control over the data they own.This episode also looked at the integral role of trust networks, the need for secure digital wallets, and the exciting prospects of verifiable data.We also covered topics such asThe concept of "streaming trust" & how SSI worksSovereign identity & worker onboardingTrusting the trust providerThe need for secure, trusted digital walletsUsing SSI to validate my LinkedIn profileExploring the Concept of Verifiable DataEmpowering consumers with their own dataThe role of AI with SSI & personal dataSSI drivers: risk, cost, fraud reductionWhere do I store my SSI data?The Philosophy of Self-Sovereign IdentityExamples where SSI is working alreadySelf-Sovereign Identity and AI ExplorationsEmbedding trust with the supply chainAI uses in SSIEmpowering Individuals with Self-Sovereign IdentityWho needs to drive SSI adoption?The biggest challenge in SSIWhat are the steps to take to control my own data?Being more data literate and caring about your identity and online safetyThree actionable steps to manage your own identityMore on MarieMarie on LinkedInMarie on TwitterMarie's blogMarie's TED talkResources mentioned1PasswordThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

Jun 15, 2023 • 44min
S5 Episode 19: Unlocking Generative AI's Potential: Ethics, Creativity, and Impact - recorded LIVE at London Tech Week
The podcast explores the potential of generative AI and its impact on our daily lives. It discusses the risks, ethics, and regulations surrounding this technology, highlighting the roles of giants like OpenAI and Google. The podcast also covers the applications of generative AI in the retail and consumer sectors, as well as its limitations. It explores the challenges of AI accessibility and the importance of human qualities like empathy. The concept of an open source version of truth and concerns around big tech and AI are also discussed. Lastly, it delves into the high cost and computational power required for generative AI, while exploring its potential to surpass human creativity.

Jun 12, 2023 • 39min
S5 Episode 18: AI in Marketing - Debunking Myths and Exploring Opportunities with Isabel Perry of DEPT
How will AI shape the future of marketing and advertising? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with our guest, Isabel Perry, VP of Emerging Technology at DEPT, as we explore the role of AI and its impact on various industries.Isabel shares valuable insights on how her background in architecture has prepared her for the challenges of working with cutting-edge technology and how DEPT's unique approach helps brands stay ahead of the competition throughout their digital customer journey. We dive deep into the myths and opportunities surrounding AI, augmented reality's potential societal impacts, and recall's power in AI-driven conversation management. Listen as Isabel discusses the ethical issues related to AI and content creation, the need for industry bodies to assist regulators, and the potential of AI to provide equal advantages for everyone. Finally, we examine the future of AI in marketing and how individuals and businesses can stay updated with the latest technology. Discover the skills needed for the advertising and marketing intern of the future and the potential of AI tools in streamlining the creative process.Join us for this enlightening conversation with Isabel Perry that covers everything from AI ethics to the future of marketing.More on IsabelIsabel on LinkedInDEPT WebsiteThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

May 29, 2023 • 25min
S5 Episode 17: Journey to the Future: How 5G Technology is Changing Rail Networks with Nokia
When you settle into your seat on your next rail journey, see if you notice small towers dotted along the journey right next to the track. These are GSM-R base stations - a private GSM network for rail operators.Launched in the UK around 2007, the technology is based on the GSM mobile standard, and GSM-R suppliers have committed to support this system until 2030.So what’s the future of rail communications? Enter the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) using the latest 5G technologies.To learn more about the opportunity for this new mode of operation, I spoke with Jochen Apel, Global Vice President of Digital Industries at Nokia, on the latest Actionable Futurist Podcast.We explored the exciting world of 5G technology for rail networks and its potential for transforming the rail industry.We also discussed the unique benefits of upgrading from the existing GSMR system to a 5G-based system, such as faster data speeds, a larger ecosystem of vendors, and more data to support critical operations, automation, and asset management.Jochen also sheds light on the potential of the Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) as a global standard.We dive into the trials being run by Nokia with customers and SNCF, SBB, and Deutsche Bahn, and discuss the transition process for rail operators moving to FRMCS systems.Don't miss this enlightening episode as we uncover the advantages of 5G technology integration for rail networks and learn what smart rail operators can do now to prepare for this imminent change.We covered topics such as:What is the future of Rail?The Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS)What is holding back the move to FRMCSUnique benefits of the Nokia approachThe opportunity for FRMCS to become a global standard5G's use in Rail NetworksNew services unlocked by FRMCSTransitioning to new FRMCS servicesWhat should smart rail operators be doing to prepare?What does a forward-looking rail operator look like?Three actionable things to better understand the needs of modern transportation networksMore on JochenJochen on LinkedInNokia FRMCS solution websiteThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

May 27, 2023 • 38min
S5 Episode 16: Mark McCrindle on Generational Impact, and AI’s impact on the future of work
Baby Boomers, Generation X, Gen Y, Millennials, Gen Z and now Gen Alpha. Is it right to define whole generations with a letter, and are we all that different?How can understanding generational differences pave the way for a successful future in the workforce, and how will Generative AI impact different generations? To answer these questions and more, I spoke with Social Researcher Mark McCrindle, who has spent his career examining each generation and how technology and societal issues affect each type.In this far-ranging discussion, we also covered:Putting labels on generationsHow technology impacts each generationTechnology adoption across the generationsEncouraging older generations to become digitally curiousGenerational Impact on Workforce DynamicsThe Generations and the future of workThe impact of hybrid working in each generation.Hybrid Work, Employee ExperienceWhere does wellness fit into the modern workplace?The importance of “employee experience”Future Employment Culture and ImpactThe need for re-skilling the workforceThe impact of Generative AI on the workforceEnterprise GPT impactsAdvice for leaders to attract and retain talentWhat is the future of work and how do we get there?Three actionable tips to better understand the changing workforceIf you want to understand how technology is likely to affect each generation and what is the future of work, then this episode is for you.Join us as we discuss the generational impact of technology on society and the workplace with Mark McCrindle, founder and principal of McCrindle Research. Prepare to uncover insights into how generational labels define us, and the crucial role they play in shaping workforce dynamics.We'll delve into the importance of bridging the gap between young and experienced employees, as well as the future of hybrid work and the significance of employee experience in retaining top talent. Learn how bringing together diverse generations within the workplace creates a level playing field, fosters understanding, and ultimately prepares organizations for the challenges ahead.Mark shares his wisdom on the importance of fostering organizational culture and investing in training and development to attract, retain, and empower the best talent. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Mark McCrindle, where we uncover the mysteries of generational impact, technology, and the future of work in a world of Generative AI.More on MarkMark on LinkedInMcCrindle ResearchThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

May 19, 2023 • 57min
S5 Episode 15: Stephanie Antonian on AI's love letter to humanity
We all know that ethics are important in AI, but beyond doing the right thing, are we actually focusing on the things that matter with the current AI tools? While ChatGPT can write you an analysis of a Shakespeare play to help you pass the semester, should AI be used for more pressing world problems - and are we building AI on the wrong paradigm?AI Ethicist Stephanie Antonian thinks so. I first met Stephanie at a recent Cadastra event around e-commerce, and over networking drinks, we debated these points about AI.Having worked for Accenture, Google, DeepMind and GoogleX, she has been thinking about the role of AI in humanity for some time.She has written a series of essays, the latest one titled: “On Generative AI: Denying the Necessary Limits of Knowledge” and asks the question: What if uncertainty was the secret to advancing knowledge?Her thinking sparked my curiosity, so a few weeks ago, I packed my portable podcast recorder and we went for a 90-minute walk around London’s Regent’s Park to discuss these issues and more.We covered a lot of ground (literally around 4 kilometres) and one phrase that captivated me was "AI is a love letter to humanity".We explore this and much more in this fascinating episode including:How Stephanie got started in AI EthicsStephanie's experience with AIThe biggest issue in AI Ethics at the momentDealing with algorithmic biasThe issue with AI regulationHighlights of working for Google, Deep Mind and XAdvice for graduates working in techHow can AI be used for good?Dealing with the hype around Generative AI and ChatGPTHumanity’s problem of fact vs fictionThe problem with ChatGPTOpen-sourcing the truth to train AIShould AI development be halted?Stephanie’s essaysLove and AIThe role of empathy in AIThe link between AI and self-worthThe hysteria in the AI industryAre we building AI on the wrong paradigm?The opportunity for AIThe need for ethics and integrity in AIWhere will the next phase of positive innovation come from?AI’s love letter to humanityWill AI take our jobs?How does AI compare to previous innovations?Are you worried about AI?Three actionable tips to better understanding AI opportunities & threatsMore on StephanieStephanie on LinkedInAestora websiteStephanie’s EssaysThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious