AI or Die

On this episode, we welcome Scott Brown, an architect at Andelyn Biosciences. Scott has a focus on data flow enablement, operational excellence and innovation to serve analytics and AI.We discuss the critical importance of human-in-the-loop oversight, the evolving role of evaluation frameworks for AI outputs, and the broader shift toward hybrid AI systems that blend generative and traditional machine learning techniques. From building early, low-risk use cases to preparing for more advanced agentic AI applications, we highlight actionable strategies for responsibly scaling AI across industries.Scott BrownAlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI Instagram

On this episode, we welcome Nan Li, an experienced AI and machine learning leader at Nationwide. Nan shares her insights from years of enabling AI and machine learning adoption within large enterprises, with a focus on workforce readiness, human-AI interaction, and operating model design. We explore how enterprises are evolving to support AI adoption beyond technical teams, highlighting the shift from centralized innovation to more distributed, domain-embedded use. Additionally, we examine the emerging personas within an AI-enabled workforce—builders, users, and protectors—and the cultural and structural changes required to empower each group. From democratizing low-risk use cases to managing risk in high-impact workflows, we offer a practical look at how organizations can build an AI-ready workforce in a responsible, scalable way.Nan Li’s LinkedinAlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI Instagram

Mike Alvarez, Chief Technology Officer at NeuZeit, offers a wealth of knowledge about AI adoption and agentic architectures. He discusses how to automate complex workflows and the evolving landscape of AI governance. The conversation dives into the challenges of moving from AI experimentation to operational success. Alvarez also highlights key trends for AI in 2025, such as advances in AI-driven automation and the need for human-centered governance frameworks, making a strong case for the balance between innovation and structure in AI initiatives.

The hosts reflect on the evolution of enterprise AI, highlighting its diverse maturity levels and the importance of executive buy-in. They discuss the rise of AI agents and the critical role of data quality. There's a focus on improving user-centered design and the need for optimization as enterprise processes evolve. Predictions for 2025 include quicker deployment cycles and deeper AI integration into workflows. The conversation also touches on the vital governance frameworks necessary for effective AI implementation.

On this episode, we welcome Bhavna Mehta, Assistant Vice President of Data and Analytics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Bhavna leads initiatives in data governance, AI governance, analytics, and business intelligence, leveraging her technical expertise and strategic insight to bridge the gap between innovation and practical implementation in healthcare.We explore the critical role of AI ethics and governance in healthcare, focusing on explainability, trustworthiness, and alignment with organizational values. Additionally, we discuss how fostering a culture of data-driven innovation empowers organizations to adopt AI responsibly and effectively. Finally, we examine the transformative potential of AI when strategically aligned with priorities like improving patient care, reducing clinician burnout, and accelerating research impact.Bhavna Mehta AlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI Instagram

This week, our hosts Nick Woo, Rehgan Bleile, and Brendan Kelly return for a special Q&A episode, addressing listener questions about AI adoption and governance in large enterprises. They explore how organizations balance AI innovation with practical implementation, focusing on integrating AI into existing systems while managing data privacy and security.The hosts dive into how enterprises can approach AI use case prioritization, weighing internal applications against more complex, customer-facing solutions. They also discuss the shift from building AI in-house to purchasing specialized solutions for greater efficiency. Additionally, they highlight the critical role of governance, including AI Centers of Excellence (COEs) and committees, in overseeing and guiding AI initiatives.AlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI Instagram

This week, our hosts Rehgan Bleile (Avon), Nick Woo, and Brendan Kelly discuss the latest in AI, including AI regulation, synthetic data, and risk management. We discuss the push for watermarking AI-generated content to increase transparency and the challenges of enforcing these regulations. We then cover the risks of using synthetic data repeatedly for training, which can lead to a decline in AI model accuracy and reliability over time.We also dive into how organizations are setting up AI Centers of Excellence (COEs) and councils to better manage AI initiatives and navigate the balance between innovation and risk. Additionally, we explore a shift from large, general-purpose models to smaller, specialized models that are better suited for specific tasks.AlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI Instagram

On this episode, we welcome Kathy Koontz, who currently serves as the Global Head HCLS Data & AI at AWS. Her career includes significant roles at Nationwide, Teradata, and Wells Fargo, where she has focused on embedding core data practices into organizational frameworks.During this episode, we dive into Kathy's expertise, gaining valuable insights for integrating core data fundamentals and practices. We explore how change management is essential for effectively deploying AI across organizations. Additionally, Kathy highlights the significance of understanding the content and quality of unstructured data, explaining that this knowledge is essential for accurately representing and achieving successful business outcomes.Kathy KoontzAlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI WaitlistAlignAI Instagram

This week, we are joined by Sharybeth Lopez Rojas, a User Experience (UX) designer with a unique background in visual design, graphics, and user interaction. Sharybeth is currently enhancing her portfolio by pursuing a master’s degree focused on design for AI.During this episode, we discuss practical examples of AI-driven design improvements and the future of AI in enhancing user interactions. We explore how AI can help professionals become more efficient by automating routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more complex and creative aspects of their work. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of proper design and user experience in deploying AI tools within large enterprises, considering the diverse skill levels and needs of users.Sharybeth LinkedInColorado BillAlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI WaitlistAlignAI Instagram

On this episode, we welcome Maria Villar, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience as a practitioner in data management and strategy. Maria has spent the last few years of her career working at SAP as the Head of Enterprise Data Strategy and Transformation. She is also a member of the Women Leaders in Data & AI (WLDA) network.During this episode, we dive into her expertise in business data leadership, gaining valuable insights into the key challenges encountered in designing and executing data strategies. We discuss the leaders who are spearheading these initiatives and examine the influence of AI on data strategy as a whole. Additionally, we explore how data security and AI strategies together affect data strategy.Maria's LinkedinMaria's YouTube MasterclassWLDA Ventures WebsiteAlignAI LinkedinAlignAI WebsiteAlignAI WaitlistAlignAI Instagram