Better You by Neeraj

What if the next immigration officer reviewing your visa isn’t a person — but an algorithm?

In this eye-opening episode of Better You by Neeraj, host Neeraj Sabharwal sits down with immigration attorney Ayda Akalin to explore how AI and machine learning are transforming U.S. immigration — and not always for the better.

They unpack:

• How USCIS is already using AI tools to detect fraud and “score” visa applicants

• Why applicants from certain countries, like India and the Middle East, are facing unintended bias

• The irony of AI systems accusing immigrants of using AI-generated documents

• The human cost of algorithmic decision-making — and what “digital borders” mean for fairness and freedom

Neeraj also shares insights from his own experience building an AI governance startup, arguing that accuracy and empathy must come before guardrails in government AI systems.

🎧 Listen for Ayda’s message to policymakers — and why she believes the border of the future won’t be made of walls, but of algorithms.

In this conversation, Neeraj Sabharwal and Jeff Brittain discuss the current landscape of AI in enterprises, focusing on the challenges of adoption, the role of governance, and the integration of AI within organizations. They explore the balance between innovation and accountability, the evolving responsibilities of CISOs, and the differences in AI governance between the EU and the US. The discussion also touches on the future of AI infrastructure and the operationalization of AI agents.

takeaways

• AI is a unique opportunity for collaboration and impact.
• Many enterprises are stuck in the pilot phase of AI adoption.
• CISOs are shifting from blocking innovation to enabling it.
• AI governance is essential for responsible AI use.
• All companies are now considered AI companies.
• The integration of AI requires a strong governance framework.
• AI agents are already being utilized by hyperscalers.
• The EU is more advanced in AI governance compared to the US.
• Operationalizing AI agents is crucial for future success.
• AI infrastructure is evolving with new technologies and governance needs.

In this episode, Neeraj Sabharwal sits down with Morgan Templar, a seasoned leader in data and AI governance, to explore the evolving landscape of AI governance.

They discuss the challenges of integrating AI into enterprises, the importance of balancing innovation with accountability, and the risks posed by AI-driven cybersecurity threats. Morgan shares insights from her books, Get Governed and A Culture of Governance, and provides a roadmap for leaders looking to implement effective AI governance frameworks.

Tune in for a deep dive into AI agent adoption, security best practices, and the future of AI regulation in enterprises.

In this episode of Better You by Neeraj, I sit down with Karthikeya, a postdoctoral researcher at Temple University specializing in water treatment and purification.

We dive deep into the fascinating world of membranes—how they function as high-tech filters, their role in data center cooling, and their growing importance in AI-driven infrastructure. Karthikeya also shares insights on how major tech companies like Meta and Google are optimizing water usage to reduce costs and environmental impact. Plus, we explore the future of membranes in quantum computing and energy solutions.

Tune in for a conversation packed with innovation, sustainability, and the hidden tech shaping our digital world!

In this must-listen episode, immigration attorney and expert Ayda breaks down crucial pathways for international talent in tech and entrepreneurship.

We explore the intricate journey from student to work visas, discussing practical strategies for technical founders looking to build their startups in the US.

Ayda shares expert insights on current immigration options and potential policy changes on the horizon under new government administration.

Whether you're a student planning your post-graduation career, a startup founder navigating visa options, or a tech professional considering immigration pathways, this episode offers invaluable legal perspective on turning your American dream into reality.

Get practical advice from an experienced immigration lawyer who understands the unique challenges faced by international talent in today's rapidly evolving immigration landscape

You can connect with her on LinkedIn.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aghnami/

In this episode, I dive deep into the cutting-edge technologies shaping our world with Wendy Turner-Williams, a seasoned business and engineering leader with over two decades of expertise.

From the transformative potential of quantum computing and blockchain to the ever-evolving data landscape and advancements in cloud services, Wendy shares her insights on how these innovations are driving business value and reshaping industries.

Tune in to explore the future of technology and gain actionable insights from a true thought leader in the field.

Reach out to Wendy on https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-turner-williams-8b66039/

In this captivating episode of Better You by Neeraj, we explore the extraordinary life of Genie, a talented violinist and yoga instructor who left a promising career in medicine to follow her true passions.

Genie’s expertise as a violinist spans classical and pop/classic rock, with a particular love for tango violin. She has performed with symphonic and chamber orchestras, small ensembles ranging from duos to sextets, and as a soloist on both acoustic and electric violin.

As a freelance artist, Genie has brought her artistry to countless special events, including weddings and corporate parties, as well as studio recordings.

She is also a featured performer for Candlelight Concerts, where her music creates unforgettable experiences. Her albums Winter Wander (2020) and Quartet Rouge: Muses (2011) showcase her incredible versatility and passion for her craft.

In addition to her music career, Genie is a dedicated yoga instructor specializing in Yin Yoga and the Roll Model Method. Through her practice, she helps individuals find balance, flexibility, and relief, combining mindfulness with movement.

In this episode, we dive into her inspiring journey from medicine to music, the challenges she overcame, her love for teaching and performing, and how she balances her dual passions. Genie shares invaluable advice for anyone considering a bold career change and insights into how creativity and wellness can shape a fulfilling life.

Follow Genie on Instagram:

Personal/Violin: @penseypreppy

Yoga/Rolling: @thisishowwieroll

This episode is perfect for aspiring artists, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration to pursue their dreams. Don’t miss this incredible story of courage, creativity, and connection!

In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Andrea Garfield to dive into the timeless psychological concept of "familiarity breeds contempt."

Inspired by my recent article on the topic, we explore why prolonged exposure can sometimes lead to friction in relationships—whether at home, work, or in friendships.

Andrea shares her unique insights and strategies for maintaining respect and appreciation in relationships, especially when the initial spark fades.

Together, we unpack real-life examples, discuss the science behind this phenomenon, and offer actionable steps to strengthen connections while overcoming this natural tendency.

If you've ever struggled with balancing closeness and respect in your relationships, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn how to nurture bonds, improve communication, and cultivate lasting harmony in both personal and professional spheres.

Article ⁠link⁠.

In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Andrea Garfield to dive into the timeless psychological concept of "familiarity breeds contempt."

Inspired by my recent article on the topic, we explore why prolonged exposure can sometimes lead to friction in relationships—whether at home, work, or in friendships.

Andrea shares her unique insights and strategies for maintaining respect and appreciation in relationships, especially when the initial spark fades.

Together, we unpack real-life examples, discuss the science behind this phenomenon, and offer actionable steps to strengthen connections while overcoming this natural tendency.

If you've ever struggled with balancing closeness and respect in your relationships, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn how to nurture bonds, improve communication, and cultivate lasting harmony in both personal and professional spheres.

Article link.

In this episode, I sit down with the founder of Protegrity to explore the future of data security and privacy. We dive deep into the challenges and solutions for data protection in a world that is rapidly evolving with technologies like blockchain and quantum computing.

About Ulf:

Ulf Mattsson is a co-founder of Protegrity, a data security company, where he has held roles including Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Security Strategist. During his tenure, he invented Protegrity's Vaultless Tokenization and developed the company's initial security architecture.