AI or Die is the podcast where we hang out and talk about trends, news, and the great debate of AI. In each episode, hosts (and friends) Rehgan, Nick, and Brendan discuss topics and news in the data & AI space.
Currently, they work together at AlignAI, a tech start-up based in Columbus, Ohio.
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 Koontz AlignAI Linkedin AlignAI Website AlignAI Waitlist AlignAI 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 LinkedIn Colorado Bill AlignAI Linkedin AlignAI Website AlignAI Waitlist AlignAI 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 Linkedin Maria's YouTube Masterclass WLDA Ventures Website AlignAI Linkedin AlignAI Website AlignAI Waitlist AlignAI Instagram
On this episode, we are joined by Alex Rogozhin, the Senior Director of Artificial Intelligence at Bread Financial. Alex has over twelve years of leadership experience in developing data science and machine learning solutions within the financial services sector. In his current role, Alex empowers high-performing teams to deliver AI/ML solutions that have a direct impact on the business performance. During this episode, we discuss recent data and AI trends, the impact of emerging technologies on AI teams, and AI solutions as products for businesses. We also dive into how teams should evaluate the success and impact of AI systems, in addition to, how data scientists can support end-users to drive adoption and usage of these solutions. Alex’s Linkedin Bread Financial WLDA Ventures Website AlignAI Linkedin AlignAI Website AlignAI Waitlist AlignAI Instagram
This week we are joined by Nicolay Christopher Gerold. In this episode, Nicolay (Nico) brings a unique blend of expertise with his rich background in GenAI, NLP, and LLMs. Nico discusses a practical approach to the real-world applications and implications of generative AI technologies. During this episode, we dive into the multifaceted impacts of GenAI, discussing its role in data extraction, the challenges surrounding data governance and privacy, and the significance of synthetic data. Nico offers valuable insights on the future of AI user interfaces and the shift towards specialized AI models by making AI integrations more accessible and intuitive for users. Nicolay’s Linkedin AISBACH Data Solutions AlignAI Linkedin AlignAI Website AlignAI Waitlist AlignAI Instagram