In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, Adam Glaser from Appian shares how generative AI is transforming enterprise technology and redefining how businesses operate. As the global appetite for AI grows, Appian’s low-code platform stands out by making AI more accessible, allowing enterprises to build and deploy AI-powered applications without requiring extensive data science resources. Adam dives deep into how generative AI serves as a force multiplier across the board—from developers building and testing applications faster to end users interacting directly with AI-driven chat interfaces. A key focus of the conversation is Appian’s patented data fabric, a virtualized data layer that addresses fragmented enterprise data. This architecture provides the foundation for AI to operate efficiently, pulling together disparate data sources into a unified system. Adam explains how this approach enables businesses to unlock the full potential of AI, helping enterprises tackle complex tasks such as document extraction, PII detection, and real-time data analysis. Throughout the episode, Adam presents several real-world examples where Appian’s AI-enhanced solutions have delivered measurable results. From automating the accounts payable process for a U.S. fire protection company to improving student advising through AI chatbots at a large university, these stories reveal how businesses are achieving significant productivity gains and cost savings. In particular, the episode highlights how AI has revolutionized document processing, customer service, and data management, reducing errors and improving accuracy across industries. Adam also addresses the barriers to AI adoption, including common concerns around data privacy, job displacement, and unrealistic expectations. He offers practical advice for business leaders looking to integrate AI effectively, urging them to focus on tangible business outcomes and view AI as a tool to augment human capabilities, not replace them.

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Chris Reddington, Senior Product Manager of Strategy for Developer Relations at GitHub, to explore the transformative role of AI in software development. As AI continues to reshape the way businesses innovate, the conversation shifts beyond the mere integration of new technology. Chris emphasizes that adopting AI-powered software development is a significant cultural shift, requiring more than just technical tools. It demands a top-down approach, where leadership support and change management are critical to fostering a progressive culture within development teams. Throughout our discussion, Chris unpacks why the impact of AI tools like GitHub Copilot should not be narrowly measured by the volume of code produced. Instead, he argues that the true value lies in how these tools free developers to focus on more complex, meaningful work. By automating repetitive tasks, AI helps developers maintain their creative flow, reducing context switching and allowing them to concentrate on higher-level challenges like architecture, system design, and testing. Chris also touches on the broader implications of AI adoption, highlighting the need for a clear vision and strategy that goes beyond just using new tools. Organizations must be willing to embrace change, experiment with new processes, and provide continuous learning opportunities for their teams. He points out that AI coding has the potential to enhance developers' skills by providing contextual assistance, especially for junior developers, and by offering insights that can improve security and code quality. Learn more about GitHub GitHub blog: https://github.blog/ GitHub Universe: https://githubuniverse.com/ Chris' Profile - linkedin.com/in/chrisreddington

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Matt Gertner, the CEO of Salsita, a forward-thinking startup based in Prague, to explore how conversational AI is set to transform the future of eCommerce. Salsita has made waves by introducing a groundbreaking 3D product configurator equipped with an AI-powered conversational interface. This innovation allows customers to design and customize complex products—ranging from kitchen ranges to holiday decor—through simple, natural language conversations, making the online shopping experience more intuitive and personalized than ever before. Matt shares insights into the development of this technology, which leverages OpenAI's advanced language models to provide real-time, expert guidance as customers navigate through the configuration process. This AI-driven approach mimics the in-store experience, where shoppers typically rely on the expertise of sales reps to help them make decisions. By embedding this configurator directly into retailers' websites, Salsita has created a seamless and engaging user experience that not only enhances customer satisfaction but also drives higher conversion rates. We discuss the broader implications of conversational AI for eCommerce, including its potential to bridge the gap between online and offline shopping. Matt explains how this technology could revolutionize the way we interact with software, with applications extending beyond eCommerce into other areas of digital interaction. He also touches on the challenges and risks associated with AI, such as the need for accurate information and the potential for misinformation, while sharing how Salsita is addressing these concerns. Throughout our conversation, Matt's passion for making technology more human-centric shines through. He envisions a future where conversational AI becomes the norm, simplifying complex tasks and making technology more accessible to everyone. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the cutting edge of eCommerce, AI, and the future of human-computer interaction.

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Jon Wolfe, President of Global Systems and Services at Light & Wonder, a leader in the casino technology space. With the casino industry being a $300 billion giant, it's no surprise that it's eager to embrace cutting-edge technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. Jon brings deep insights into how AI is poised to transform casino floors, enhance player experiences, and tackle some of the industry's most pressing ethical challenges. Jon discusses how AI is reshaping the traditional casino environment by creating more personalized and engaging experiences for players. From generating real-time rewards based on player behavior to detecting when a player is likely to end their gaming session, AI is making it possible for casinos to respond instantly and keep players engaged. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Jon delves into the importance of ethical AI use, transparency in AI-driven decisions, and the measures Light & Wonder takes to protect player data and privacy. This commitment not only builds trust but also ensures that AI is used to foster responsible gaming practices, detect risky behavior, and maintain the integrity of the gaming experience. As we explore the future of AI in the casino industry, Jon shares his vision for 2025, where AI will collaborate more closely with casino operators, automate routine tasks, and continuously improve customer experiences in real-time. He also reflects on his career journey, particularly the impact of his early mentor, Jack Binion, who taught him the value of putting the customer first. These lessons remain at the core of his approach as he leverages AI to anticipate and meet the evolving needs of casino patrons. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of AI, ethics, and the future of gaming. What does the future hold for AI in casinos, and how will it continue to reshape the industry? Tune in to find out!    

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Nauman Hafiz, Chief Technical Officer at Constellation, to explore the cutting-edge intersection of AI, data security, and marketing innovation. With over a decade of experience leading technology teams at R/GA, Nauman now spearheads Constellation’s efforts to revolutionize how Fortune 100 companies approach social listening and data protection. One of the key topics we delve into is Constellation’s proprietary technology, Aurora. Nauman explains how Aurora harnesses the power of AI to perform contextual social listening, enabling companies to refine their marketing strategies and drive significant revenue growth. This AI-driven approach not only offers deeper insights into consumer behavior but also helps brands stay ahead in a highly competitive marketplace. As we navigate through the conversation, Nauman shares his perspective on the rapid advancements in AI by tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. He offers his predictions on how other companies might follow suit, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI across various industries. His insights provide a glimpse into the future of AI, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Data security is another critical area we discuss, especially in the context of AI’s growing influence. Nauman offers valuable advice on how companies can safeguard their data while leveraging AI technologies. With increasing concerns around data privacy and regulatory compliance, his expertise sheds light on practical strategies to maintain robust security measures without stifling innovation.    

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Dr. Mfon Akpan, an expert in accounting and finance from Methodist University, to explore the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in the accounting profession. As AI technologies continue to advance, they are increasingly outperforming humans in various domains, including those within the accounting sector. Dr. Akpan shares insights on how AI is reshaping workflows, boosting productivity, and introducing a new paradigm where AI-generated drafts are refined by human professionals—a process that is not only enhancing efficiency but also challenging traditional approaches. A significant focus of our discussion centers on the ethical considerations that accompany AI's integration into accounting. Dr. Akpan raises critical concerns about privacy, the need for transparency in disclosing AI usage to clients, and the potential for a digital divide created by unequal access to AI tools. As major accounting firms invest heavily in AI, the question of how to implement these technologies responsibly becomes ever more pressing. Dr. Akpan also delves into the impact of AI on education, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to these tools to ensure they are workforce-ready while also teaching them to navigate the ethical complexities that arise. Dr. Akpan's work, including his recent publication on aligning AI with ethical accountancy, introduces frameworks designed to ensure that AI adoption in the accounting profession remains aligned with the core values of trust and integrity. As we explore these themes, Dr. Akpan also reflects on the challenges facing educators, policymakers, and practitioners as they collaborate to keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI and ensure that ethical standards are upheld. Join us as we discuss the transformative potential of AI in accounting, the ethical challenges it presents, and the crucial role of lifelong learning in preparing the next generation of professionals for a future where AI plays an integral role in their work.        

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Tiago Cardoso, Group Product Manager at Hyland Solutions, a company known for its industry-leading intelligent content solutions. With a solid background in Computer Science and AI, Tiago brings over a decade of experience in developing cutting-edge interfaces across web, mobile, and 3D applications. Our conversation delves into the transformative power of AI in enterprise content management, particularly in sectors like healthcare, insurance, and banking. We explore how AI is revolutionizing these industries by streamlining processes, enhancing decision-making, and ultimately improving customer experiences. Tiago also shares insights on how AI is reshaping higher education, specifically within computer science programs. He discusses the growing importance of integrating AI into the curriculum, preparing the next generation of tech professionals to meet the demands of an AI-driven world. This naturally leads us into a discussion about AI implementation readiness in the workforce. As AI continues to advance, its impact on jobs and the skills required to thrive in a tech-oriented workplace is a topic of critical importance.  Tiago offers his perspective on how organizations can better prepare their employees for the changes AI will bring, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Throughout our conversation, Tiago emphasizes the need for a thoughtful and strategic approach to AI adoption, one that balances innovation with ethical considerations and a focus on the human element. Whether you’re curious about the future of AI in enterprise settings or interested in how AI is influencing education and the job market, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of AI and its far-reaching implications. How will AI reshape the industries that matter most to you? What steps should organizations take to ensure they are ready for the AI-driven future? Don’t miss this engaging discussion that could help shape your perspective on the opportunities and challenges ahead.

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Niki Manby, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Mutual of Omaha, a company with over a century of experience in providing insurance and financial solutions. Niki, an expert in consumer financial services, shares insights into how Mutual of Omaha, a Fortune 300 company, is evolving to meet the changing needs of its nearly 24 million customers while maintaining its core mission of helping people protect what they care about. We explore how Mutual of Omaha is embracing digital transformation within the insurance industry. As customer expectations shift, driven by tech giants like Meta, Amazon, and TikTok, even traditionally tech-averse demographics, such as seniors, are becoming more digitally savvy. Niki discusses the company’s approach to integrating self-service options and digital learning journeys, all while balancing innovation with the privacy concerns that come with health information. Niki also dives into the emerging trends within the insurance industry, such as micro-insurance, on-demand insurance, and embedded insurance models. We discuss how these new models are reshaping the industry and the role insurtechs play in supporting carriers rather than competing directly with them. Throughout our conversation, we look at the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating new technologies into long-standing insurance products, the importance of maintaining a customer-centric approach, and how Mutual of Omaha is positioning itself for future growth. Niki offers a forward-looking perspective on how the company plans to expand its scope beyond traditional insurance to include broader financial and wellness solutions, ensuring it remains at the forefront of industry innovation. Tune in to discover how a century-old company like Mutual of Omaha is not just adapting but leading in the rapidly changing landscape of insurance and financial services.    

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I enjoy a conversation with Eddy Badrina, CEO of Eden Green, a company on a mission to reshape agriculture through cutting-edge vertical indoor greenhouse technology. With a focus on sustainability, Eddy shares how Eden Green is pioneering new methods to grow fresh produce more efficiently, using less water, energy, and reducing carbon emissions. We discuss Eden Green's innovative approach, where their patented microclimate technology creates optimal growing conditions for each plant. This precise control over water, light, and nutrients not only enhances the growth process but also significantly reduces resource consumption. The result is fresher, safer produce that reaches grocery shelves within 48 hours, addressing the long-standing issue of food miles and waste in the supply chain. Eddy also introduces us to their groundbreaking herb program, which stands as a first in the industry. Unlike the traditional model that relies on fragmented, global supply chains, Eden Green's approach allows for the growth, packaging, and distribution of over ten herb varieties from a single location. This innovation reduces the complexity and environmental impact associated with herb distribution, offering retailers a more sustainable and efficient solution. Throughout our discussion, Eddy provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of agriculture. He outlines Eden Green's ambitious plans to expand across the U.S., with the goal of establishing 20 production facilities within the next five years. This expansion is not just about scaling their operations but also about setting a new standard for how fresh produce can be grown and distributed sustainably.  

Blake Johnson, Quantum Engine Lead at IBM Quantum, dives into the evolution of Qiskit, which has transformed from an experimental tool into a powerful software platform for quantum computing. He discusses AI-powered tools that optimize problem mapping to quantum circuits and the significance of the latest version, Qiskit 1.0, with 16x faster performance. Blake highlights IBM's collaborative efforts with a global community of over 600,000 users to push for quantum advantage and outlines the vision for achieving fault-tolerant quantum computing by 2029.