Summary

In this episode of From Leads to Leases, host Jerry Vinci speaks with Benjamin Ekstrom, Senior Vice President of IT at Sincere Senior Living, about the critical role of AI governance in the senior living industry. They discuss the importance of understanding the difference between automation and AI, the challenges of balancing innovation with compliance, and the need to modernize outdated technology infrastructure. Benjamin shares insights on managing IT support across generations, the role of robotics, and the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity. The conversation emphasizes a people-first approach to technology and the potential for innovation to enhance employee retention in the healthcare space.

Learn More

• Connect with Benjamin Exstrom on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Sinceri Senior Living

Takeaways

• AI governance is more important than AI capability.
• Automation is a subset of AI, not the same.
• Balancing innovation with compliance is a major challenge.
• Tech is now a necessary capital investment.
• Managing IT support is often invisible labor.
• Robots can help fill workforce gaps but require oversight.
• There's a significant gap in mid-level IT talent.
• Quantum computing will revolutionize encryption methods.
• A people-first approach to tech is essential.
• Innovation can lead to improved employee retention.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to CCR Growth's - Senior LIving Business Podcast

01:38 Benjamin Ekstrom - Senior Living IT Expert

02:29 AI Governance: The New Frontier

03:58 Misconceptions Between Automation and AI

05:33 Dangers of Generative AI Tools in Senior Living

07:33 Managing IT Support in Senior Living

09:40 Integrating Tech for Staff and Residents

10:40 The Role of Robots in Modern Workplaces

12:01 Bridging the Generational Talent Gap

15:31 The Demand for IT Talent

18:38 Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity

20:35 The Value of Analog in a Digital World

22:08 Tech Adoption: Early vs. Late

22:33 Human-Centric Technology Design

24:09 Proactive Planning for Future Tech

26:43 Innovation and Job Security

Keywords

AI governance, automation, senior living, technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, generational talent gap, smart technology, employee retention, digital transformation, healthcare compliance