AI in the Real World: Dismantling AI Productivity Myths and Embracing Ethical Use | Yvette Schmitter

In this episode of An Hour of Innovation podcast, host Vit Lyoshin speaks with AI and ethics expert Yvette Schmitter about the practical use cases of AI, the ethical considerations surrounding its deployment, and the importance of quantifying productivity gains. They discuss the hype surrounding AI tools, the challenges of integrating AI into existing systems, and the need for proper training and implementation to achieve real business value.

Yvette Schmitter is a trailblazing innovator and internationally recognized AI ethicist, dedicated to making technology more inclusive, ethical, and impactful. As Co-Founder and CEO of Fusion Collective and a former leader at PwC and AWS, she has spent her career ensuring that innovation serves everyone. A sought-after global speaker featured in Forbes, The New York Times, and on national TV, Yvette is known for translating complex technologies like AI and cloud computing into transformative tools. Her work focuses on responsible innovation, breaking down barriers, and creating frameworks that ensure AI is developed and deployed equitably.

References

* CursorAI: https://www.wired.com/story/cursor-ai-hallucination-policy-customer-service/

* Air Canada Chatbot Case: https://www.forbes.com/sites/marisagarcia/2024/02/19/what-air-canada-lost-in-remarkable-lying-ai-chatbot-case/

* Mount Sinai Health System Research: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03626-6

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Takeaways

* Productivity is often a buzzword used to sell AI tools.

* True productivity gains must be quantified in terms of business value.

* AI coding tools can enhance individual efficiency but may create technical debt.

* Many AI tools are overhyped and may not deliver real value.

* Ethics should be integrated into every stage of AI development.

* Companies often fail to understand the real problems they need to solve with AI.

* Accountability for AI decisions is a significant concern.

* All risks associated with AI deployment are substantial.

* AI biases can exacerbate existing healthcare disparities.

* Organizations should focus on building a strong foundational infrastructure for AI.

* Successful AI implementations often start with small, focused projects.

* Involving diverse perspectives is crucial in AI development.

* AI can be a powerful tool for good if used judiciously.

* Slow and steady approaches often yield better results in AI implementation.

* Understanding the real problems is essential before deploying AI solutions.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

01:35 Evaluating AI's Impact on Productivity

05:05 The Role of AI in Software Development

09:12 Training and Implementation for AI Success

14:40 The Hype Cycle of AI Tools

19:36 Ethical Considerations in AI Deployment

29:41 Healthcare Disparities and AI Biases

36:52 Building a Strong Foundation for AI Implementation

43:38 Success Stories in AI Implementation

49:13 Personal AI Tools and Their Impact

55:00 Advice for Transitioning to AI in Organizations

Connect with Yvette

* Website: https://www.fusioncollective.net/

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvetteschmitter/

* Other: https://yvetteschmitter.net/

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