In this episode of ISO Insights, Russell Lawson explores the real story behind the global AI race and what it means for the future of work, power, and control. Moving beyond headlines and hype, the episode traces the origins of today’s AI boom through the contrasting journeys of Sam Altman and Demis Hassabis, and the organisations that now sit at the centre of artificial intelligence development.

From the early ambitions of OpenAI and DeepMind to the commercial pressures imposed by Big Tech, this episode examines how ethical visions for AI collided with profit-driven reality. You’ll hear how transformer models reshaped the technology landscape, why Google hesitated while OpenAI accelerated, and how Microsoft’s investment helped ignite the modern AI arms race.

The episode also digs into the hidden human costs of AI, including data labour, bias in algorithms, and the growing impact on jobs, inequality, and decision-making. It challenges listeners to think critically about who controls AI, how fast it should move, and whether regulation can realistically keep pace with innovation.

This is not a technical deep dive, but a systems-level exploration of AI as a foundational technology that will shape how we work, govern, and live. If you’re interested in the future of work, ethical technology, and how power is shifting in the digital economy, this episode provides essential context and uncomfortable but necessary questions.

In this episode, Russell Lawson explores why a true sustainability revolution is no longer optional. From the shortcomings of the Paris Agreement to stories of individuals and companies driving real change, Russell unpacks how our current model of endless growth is colliding with the limits of a finite planet.

You’ll hear how one Swedish dealership transformed national fuel infrastructure, how consumer choices reshaped fast food, and why redefining corporate success is key to our future. This episode shows that the revolution starts with people, is accelerated by business, supported by governments - and shaped by the choices we all make every day.

If you want a clear, practical look at how meaningful environmental change really happens, this is your starting point.

Large organisations often struggle to redesign their services - not because people don’t care, but because their systems weren’t designed intentionally. They grew around silos, departments, and outdated structures.

In this episode, we explore how to fix that. You’ll learn how to redefine your organisation by the services it provides, adopt an outside-in perspective, measure what really matters, and structure teams for meaningful, lasting change.

We’ll discuss why every industry is becoming a service industry, how to align outcomes with user needs, and what adaptive planning looks like in practice.

Whether you work in government, finance, or healthcare, this episode will help you see how large-scale transformation can actually work - with the right mindset and structure.

🎙️ Listen now to discover how to design better, more human services at scale.

In this episode of ISO Insights, Russell Lawson explores the unsettling world of social engineering - the psychological art of hacking people rather than systems. From phishing scams and fake charities to lock-picking and subtle manipulation, discover how attackers exploit trust, curiosity, and empathy to bypass even the strongest security measures. Through real-world stories and examples, Russell unpacks the psychology, tactics, and emotional triggers behind social engineering, showing how anyone can be manipulated - and, more importantly, how you and your organisation can stay protected.

In this episode, Russell Lawson explores the power of Strategic Kaizen - the mindset of continuous improvement that drives resilience, efficiency, and long-term success. From Toyota’s lean origins to real-world crises at BP and Johnson & Johnson, we examine how Kaizen principles apply far beyond manufacturing. Discover how flow, synchronisation, and stakeholder thinking can transform your business into a learning organisation - one small improvement at a time.

In this episode of ISO Insights, Russell Lawson explores the risks of smart technology in our connected world. From IoT threats to cybercrime, espionage, and personal data security, learn how we got here - and what you can do to stay safe. If it’s smart, it’s vulnerable - but with the right knowledge, you don’t have to be.

Discover the power of Gemba Kaizen - common-sense, low-cost improvement from the front lines. In this episode, we explore how this simple, people-driven approach can transform any workplace by eliminating waste, empowering employees, and creating lasting change - no fancy tech required. Real improvement starts where the work happens.

In this episode of ISO Insights, Russell Lawson explores how to scale a business smartly - without losing control or quality. Learn the difference between growth and scaling, why a clear purpose and strong culture matter, and how systems and automation can drive sustainable success.

Discover how the story of Alex Rogo offers powerful lessons in overcoming business challenges. From identifying bottlenecks to empowering teams and embracing continuous improvement, this episode of ISO Insights shows you how to transform your business by working smarter - not harder.

In this episode of ISO Insights, Russell Lawson shares how businesses can build stronger customer relationships by solving real problems and aligning with audience values. With examples from Apple, Google, GoPro and more, discover how customer insight fuels innovation, loyalty, and growth. Listen now to transform how you connect with your customers.