In this episode of Optimized for Humans, host Usha Gubbala talks with Joe Abbott, Chief Human Capital Officer at USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, about how AI is transforming the public sector, particularly in food safety and inspection. Together, they explore how technology and human judgment can coexist in regulatory environments where trust, accountability, and ethics are paramount.

Joe shares his perspective on how AI can help public agencies regain lost time, synthesize data more effectively, and enhance efficiency — all while maintaining the human decision-making and oversight essential to public service. The discussion also highlights the role of leadership and employee engagement in ensuring responsible AI adoption and fostering a culture of collaboration and transparency.

Launching during Thanksgiving week, this episode is a timely reflection on how innovation and humanity can work hand-in-hand to create a more efficient and trustworthy government.

💡 Key Takeaways

⚙️ AI is a tool to regain time and improve efficiency.

🧠 Human judgment remains critical in regulatory processes.

🧩 Accountability and transparency are essential for public trust.

💬 Employee engagement fuels innovation in government.

🤝 Leadership must facilitate open conversations about AI.

💡 AI should support, not replace, human decision-making.

📊 AI helps synthesize large volumes of data for better outcomes.

🏛️ The public sector must ensure responsible use of taxpayer funds.

🤔 AI adoption works best through collaboration and communication.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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 – Usha and the Optimized For Humans Podcast Team

Connect with Aithan Shapira here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aithan-shapira-294b8958/

Connect with me here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ushagubbala/

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