AI or Not

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

Curious about the future of artificial intelligence in the realm of cybersecurity? We welcome Greg Sisson, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO), CI-Discern,a seasoned cyber executive with a remarkable 40-year career in public service, including the US Army and various government agencies. Greg takes us through his transition from government roles to entrepreneurship and shares the inspiring motivations behind co-founding CI Design. Learn how understanding an organization's mission and its stakeholders is crucial in navigating the risks and seizing the opportunities presented by digital transformation. Personal milestones, such as the birth of his granddaughter, also played a significant role in shaping Greg's career decisions.

Discover why data is the crown jewel of the AI era, surpassing the value of hardware and software. We discuss the pivotal roles of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and Chief Data Officers (CDOs) in protecting this invaluable asset. Hear Greg's insights on the importance of a collaborative approach between these roles to safeguard data effectively. Amid the rising tide of data breaches, maintaining consumer trust through timely and transparent communication is more important than ever. Don't miss out on learning about robust data loss prevention measures that every organization should prioritize to prevent breaches from becoming the norm.

Get ready to explore the dual-edged sword of AI technologies, from deep fakes to adversarial AI threats. We delve into the complexities of AI governance and compliance, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and human oversight to maintain ethical standards. Greg sheds light on the critical intersection of software bill of materials (SBOM) and AI, and the importance of securing language models against adversarial attacks. Finally, we discuss the shift from being the office of "no" to the office of "know," emphasizing the importance of collaboration, education, and a balanced approach to AI's benefits and challenges. Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and digital transformation.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

What happens when artificial intelligence meets the cutting edge of cybersecurity? In this episode of AI or Not, we sit down with Opeyemi Kolowole, a respected red team operator and ethical hacker, to uncover the fascinating interplay between AI and red teaming. Opeyemi shares his rich journey from penetration testing to his current role, and even gives us a peek into his personal interests, like playing soccer and chess. This episode promises an engaging blend of professional insights and practical advice for anyone interested in the cybersecurity landscape.

Opeyemi delves into the dual nature of AI in cybersecurity, highlighting how it enhances efficiency through automation while also presenting new vulnerabilities. He sheds light on the necessity of human oversight to ensure the accuracy of AI-generated results and the potential pitfalls when cyber adversaries exploit these technologies. The conversation covers intriguing topics like the concept of "jailbreaking" AI systems such as ChatGPT, and offers a balanced view of the benefits and risks of integrating AI into red teaming practices. It's an eye-opening discussion that emphasizes the indispensable role of ethical considerations in this fast-evolving field.

We wrap up the episode by exploring the critical importance of continuous learning and ethical conduct in cybersecurity. Opeyemi underscores the value of obtaining specialized certifications to stay ahead of advanced persistent threats (APTs) and the rapid advancements in AI technologies. He shares practical tips on setting learning goals, embracing areas of weakness, and the necessity of ongoing education. For those eager to thrive in the dynamic world of cybersecurity, this episode offers invaluable guidance on maintaining personal well-being and professional excellence amid the industry's high demands.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

Unlock the secrets to successfully blending business goals with cutting-edge AI technology in our latest episode of AI or Not. Join us as Kiat Neo, Sr. Manager, Solutions Architect Executive, GDIT,  shares his expert insights on leveraging enterprise architecture to align AI solutions with strategic business objectives. Discover why AI should be seen as more than just an IT function and how to evaluate its suitability for tackling specific challenges. Kiat provides practical strategies on maximizing return on investment in digital transformation initiatives, ensuring your organization not only keeps up with the times but gains a competitive edge.

We also take a deep dive into the ethical dimensions of AI in healthcare. From AI's role in recognizing and categorizing COVID-19 symptoms to assisting in 911 call handling, we explore real-world examples that highlight the essential balance between human judgment and AI predictions. Kiat stresses the importance of ethical use and integrity in AI technologies to prevent potential harm. Listen in as we tackle pressing questions about what keeps us up at night regarding AI and what gives us peace of mind, emphasizing the crucial interplay between ethical applications and the human element in AI-driven decision-making.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

What if your data could truly reflect the diversity of human experience? In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Brenna Coppola Milner, a seasoned account manager and data-driven solutionist, to discuss her fascinating career journey from a marketing graduate to a tech sales professional. Brenna sheds light on the pivotal role of relationship-building in sales and why starting in a business development role can be a game-changer for anyone looking to break into the tech industry. She also shares her views on the transformative potential of AI and emerging technologies, emphasizing the urgency of democratizing data to ease public fears and soothe digital anxiety among business leaders.

We then confront one of the most pressing issues in tech today: unintentional discrimination. Through compelling real-world examples, Brenna tackles the biases inherent in AI and tech development—like soap dispensers that don't recognize darker skin tones and facial recognition systems that fail people of color at airports. These anecdotes not only highlight the need for inclusive design but also underscore the critical role that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI and A) play in combating these biases and preventing the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

Finally, we explore the often-overlooked concept of diverse data lineage and its impact on bias amplification in AI systems. Brenna underscores the importance of diverse teams in data processing to catch and correct errors early, particularly in high-stakes fields like healthcare. She also delves into the broader implications on mental health and workplace performance, explaining how stereotypes fueled by inaccurate data can be detrimental. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how accurate data and inclusive practices are central to driving digital transformation and creating a positive, productive work

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

Can artificial intelligence revolutionize national security? Angela Sheffield, with her extensive background in applied mathematics and operations research, believes it can. In this episode of "AI or Not," Angela shares her extraordinary journey to pivotal roles at the US Department of Energy and the Department of Defense, offering us a front-row seat to the diverse applications of AI in defense. From streamlining administrative tasks to enhancing warfighting capabilities, Angela sheds light on how leveraging commercial AI advancements can significantly improve decision-making and operational efficiency both in the boardroom and on the battlefield.

Bridging the notorious "valley of death" in the national security science and technology sector is no small feat. Angela discusses the vital importance of recruiting talent from research institutions and reimagining internal teams and collaboration methods to ensure research continuity and practical implementation. She emphasizes the necessity of data-driven decision-making and the benefits of digital modernization and cloud technologies, particularly in observing and optimizing new capabilities. This conversation provides invaluable insights into the challenges of transitioning groundbreaking research from national laboratories to practical applications in the defense and federal space.

Trust in new technologies is essential, especially in the context of digital transformation in both military and civilian government sectors. Angela delves into the necessity for process changes and the importance of trust among soldiers and operators towards new technologies. The discussion extends to advancements in digital transformation within health and financial services, reflecting on the progress in governmental sectors outside of defense. By addressing complex problems through low-hanging fruit and leveraging resources effectively, Angela shares how significant progress can be made with strategic foresight and practical problem-solving approaches. Join us for this thought-provoking episode, where mission-driven efforts in AI and digital modernization are explored in depth.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

Prepare to be enthralled by the profound insights of Julie Schroeder, a
trailblazing Chief Legal Officer, as she shares her riveting transformation from
trial and appellate lawyer to an advisor for tech titans who happens to also be a
lawyer. Her pioneering efforts in healthcare IT and natural language processing
predate the AI boom by decades, setting the stage for a deep dive into the world
of data and expertise needed for of most companies to properly use and protect
data on a global level, as well as AI/ ML and cybersecurity. Julie’s narrative is not
just her own; the story of a digital landscape in constant flux, where
cybersecurity emerges as a critical linchpin for business continuity and the
protection of our most sensitive data.

Our conversation with Julie doesn't shy away from the hard-hitting challenges and ample opportunities that cybersecurity presents. Together, we explore the pressing need for specialized education and the integration of data and AI into cybersecurity strategies. Security breaches aren't just about data theft; they're a sobering reminder of our vulnerabilities in an interconnected world. Julie's expertise brings to light the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding our digital transformation journey and the ethical implications that come with stewarding vast amounts of data.

As we navigate the complex terrain of AI, Julie imparts wisdom on the ethical use of data and the potential pitfalls of over-reliance on algorithms. The balance between human oversight and technological advancement is a delicate dance, one that requires constant vigilance and education. In this episode, we not only dissect the intricacies of AI's role in cybersecurity but also confront the broader questions of data ownership and security. Whether you're a professional in the tech field or simply captivated by the evolving digital age, Julie's expertise offers a valuable compass for steering through the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, data management, and ethical decision-making. Our AI or Not guest is Kathleen Wisemandle, MSLOC, DOEC, Founder and CEO, Aspire to Grow Coaching & Consulting LLC.

When Kathleen Wisemandle decided to swap her seasoned biopharma expertise for the entrepreneurial roller coaster, she wasn't just making a career switch—she was embracing a life philosophy of no regrets and full-throttle potential. On our show, Kathleen, the powerhouse behind Aspire to Grow Coaching and Consulting LLC, takes us through her journey of sparking change and nurturing leaders in the tech-savvy biotech landscape. Our conversation is a treasure trove for CEOs, nonprofit mavens, and women at the helm, filled with insights on fostering innovation without losing one's authentic self.

Imagine a workspace where human connections flourish, even through screens and across time zones. This episode examines the art of closing the physical gap with digital bridges, as Kathleen and I dissect the importance of camaraderie and open dialogue in remote teams. It's a candid look at how these bonds don't just boost morale but are the lifeline for well-being and job satisfaction. We share our experiences with keeping the human touch alive in a digital era and ponder over the rich implications of connection for personal and organizational health.

Wrapping up, we turn our gaze to the horizon where technology meets personal growth. Here, we celebrate the power of entrepreneurial communities and AI tools like ChatGPT, discussing how they can reshape information channels and support business innovation. Kathleen and I also confront the challenges women still face in attaining equity in the corporate world, emphasizing the fight for diverse perspectives in boardrooms and beyond. Our dialogue is a heartfelt reminder of the role authentic relationships play in overcoming modern hurdles—like the widespread epidemic of loneliness—leaving us grateful for the wisdom shared and the connections made, and eager to continue this enriching exchange.

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Debbie Reynolds, "The Data Diva," to discuss the nuances of data privacy and governance in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. A trailblazer who transitioned from library science to becoming a tech titan, Debbie shares her deep insights on the complex interplay between AI and ethical responsibility. We explore her career journey, from her initial encounters with privacy issues that catapulted her to becoming a revered advisor for industry giants, to her current role.

The discussion unfolds as a treasure trove of insights for businesses at the edge of AI integration. Debbie meticulously explains how AI can be effectively harnessed for low-risk tasks to circumvent the pitfalls of regulatory challenges, while ensuring high-stakes applications are managed with the highest ethical standards. We delve into the common misconceptions about AI, highlighting that many errors attributed to the technology are, in fact, human oversights, and emphasize the crucial role of rigorous testing and clear understanding of the limits of AI tools.

As our conversation reaches its peak, we focus on the critical aspects of AI governance amidst the digital transformation of business. Debbie underscores the importance of a robust governance framework and asset management and stresses the need for continuous vigilance and expertise in an era of rapidly advancing AI systems. By the end of this episode, listeners will gain a nuanced understanding of the delicate balance required to manage the disruptive capabilities of AI with the seasoned wisdom of human oversight, all under the vigilant guidelines of regulations like the European AI Act. Tune in to elevate your perspective on the global impact and ethical considerations of AI governance.

Hello and welcome to AI or Not, a podcast where business leaders from around the globe share wisdom and insights that are needed now to address issues and guide success in your artificial intelligence and digital transformation journey. My name is Pamela Isom. I'm your podcast host.