E022 – AI or Not – Leonard Lee and Pamela Isom

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.

Discover the nuanced landscape of AI economics with me, Pamela Isom, alongside my distinguished guest Leonard Lee, Executive Analyst & Founder nextCurve. Ever wondered if your business is chasing trends at the expense of true innovation? Leonard and I unpack this dilemma, reflecting on the pressures companies face from their boards to implement AI for competitive parity rather than differentiation. We raise a bold question: Are we prioritizing the appearance of advancement over actual progress as financial strains challenge AI pioneers like OpenAI?

Journey with us as we dissect the real versus perceived capabilities of AI technologies such as ChatGPT. Leonard and I scrutinize the initial promise versus the tangible outcomes experienced by businesses. We highlight the elusive nature of transparency in AI adoption and caution against "AI washing"—the rush to embrace AI without realizing its true benefits. Through vivid analogies, we illustrate how initial excitement can deflate and leave organizations grappling with unmet expectations, calling for a grounded understanding of AI's real-world applications.

In an era where data privacy is paramount, Leonard and I explore the delicate balance between harnessing AI for data aggregation and safeguarding user privacy. We share insights into the ethical considerations of default data collection settings and targeted advertising, making a compelling case for scrutinizing vendor practices to protect user information. Wrapping up, we examine the common pitfalls in project execution and stress the importance of aligning tech initiatives with their intended outcomes. Our conversation offers practical advice to steer clear of oversimplification, ensuring your digital transformation journey is both impactful and responsible.