Embracing AI at Light Speed: The Crawl, Walk, Run, Fly Approach with Don Monistere

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren sits down with Don Monistere, CEO and President of General Informatics, to talk all things artificial intelligence (AI) in the business world. Don explains how fast AI is changing and how companies are struggling to keep up. He shares that most leaders recognize the need to utilize AI but are unsure of where to begin. Don recommends a “crawl, walk, run, fly” approach—start small, learn quickly, and gradually use more advanced tools.

They also discuss the importance of training employees on AI, being cautious with company data, and keeping everyone informed about the AI tools being used. Don says AI is not about replacing people, but rather about helping them do their jobs more effectively. He provides examples, such as using AI to write blog posts, answer emails, or schedule meetings automatically. Looking ahead, Don believes AI will continue to improve and help make businesses more efficient, allowing people to focus on what matters most. The main message: embrace AI now, or risk being left behind.

 

3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. Start Small and Iterate with AI (Crawl, Walk, Run, Fly)

Don strongly recommends a gradual, iterative approach to adopting AI, rather than trying to overhaul processes all at once. This allows organizations to quickly gain value with low-risk applications (like automating simple tasks) and build confidence and expertise before tackling more advanced uses.

2. AI is a Worker Enhancer, Not a Replacement

Both Don and Billy emphasize that AI shouldn’t be viewed as something that will immediately replace human jobs. Instead, it can make employees far more efficient and productive, allowing them to focus on higher-value, fulfilling work by automating repetitive or mundane tasks.

3. Data Security and Transparency are Essential

As companies move toward integrating AI, Don emphasizes the critical importance of transparency in data usage and the tools employees are using. Organizations need to strike a balance between accessibility and robust security, ensuring that sensitive information is properly governed and that employees are clear about the safe and ethical use of AI.

 

Key Topics:

- AI is Everywhere: Don explains that AI is developing faster than any technology he’s seen in his 37-year career. Companies know they need AI, but many don’t know where to begin.

- How to Get Started: Don advises companies to start by understanding their data and being open to slowly trying AI in different areas—crawl before you walk, walk before you run, and then fly.

- Leadership in the Age of AI: Great leaders must be flexible and willing to try new things, rather than being stuck in old ways. Being open to experimenting and learning from mistakes is key.

- Using AI at Work: Simple uses include writing job descriptions or memos. More complex uses involve having AI analyze lots of data or streamline company processes.

- Security and Trust: With AI utilizing a significant amount of company data, keeping information secure is more important than ever. It’s vital for companies to be transparent with their employees about the tools they use and to establish robust security protocols.

- People and AI Together: AI isn’t here to replace people but to help them do their jobs even better. Investing in training so employees know how to use AI is essential.

- Facing Fears: Don says that people shouldn’t be worried about AI taking their jobs if they learn how to use it. Businesses are more likely to grow by making employees more productive, not by cutting jobs.

- Looking Ahead: Over the next few years, AI will continue to improve at as