AI and Data Horizons

AI and data are redefining our world. "AI and Data Horizons" distills the most pivotal ideas, strategies, and visions from the sharpest minds you’ll find. Hosted by Michael Gale, the Wall Street Journal–bestselling author of "The Digital Helix" and acclaimed Forbes podcaster behind "Futures in Focus," this series invites you to join an elite group of thought leaders shaping our AI fueled future.

Shai Shen-Orr and David Harel - Precision Medicine And The Patient Experience 08/19/2026

Shai Shen-Orr and David Harel - Precision Medicine And The Patient Experience Shai Shen-Orr and David Harel of Cytoreason talk about the future of precision medicine. The idea of being able to go to your personal doctor and asking how your immune system is doing seems like science fiction, but is likely to be a reality soon. Hear from two leading experts using AI and cell-based research to reveal the future of medicine. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39789625

Rajnikant Gupta: The Decision Engine Behind AI That Scales 08/12/2026

Rajnikant Gupta: The Decision Engine Behind AI That Scales Rajnikant Gupta, Global Head of Partner Ecosystems and Alliances at Tata Consultancy Services, argues that enterprise AI stalls not for lack of technology but for lack of a real problem to solve. The fix is what he calls a "decision engine." With host Michael Gale, he traces a shift that runs deeper than tooling: from data-aware to context-aware, reporting to reasoning, automation to autonomy, with AI as a decision coach and humans in the loop. Raj calls this an "intelligence choice architecture," and the enterprises that miss it are the ones whose AI struggles to scale. Listen to the full conversation to hear how TCS ran the same playbook on itself, generating 260,000 ideas and roughly 110,000 apps and agents in a single global hackathon. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/42393530

Tom Siebel - Retraining the Workforce for the AI Economy 07/22/2026

Tom Siebel - Retraining the Workforce for the AI Economy A conversation with Thomas M. Siebel, Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of C3 AI, and Author of "Digital Transformation", on why the hardest part of AI was never building the technology—it's getting people to use it—and why reskilling and continuous learning are what separate the organizations that succeed from the ones that stall. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39789455

Dustin Alpert and Frank Conway: Why the World Cup Is a Preview of Commerce to Come 07/08/2026

Dustin Alpert and Frank Conway: Why the World Cup Is a Preview of Commerce to Come At a World Cup match, the clock isn't only measuring the game—it's measuring whether the business behind it can keep up. Dustin Alpert and Frank Conway of Shift4 join the podcast to explain why the world's most demanding venues become the testing ground for cutting-edge commerce, where tens of thousands of fans buy in one tight window and every second counts. They break down why frictionless, "invisible" commerce only works on a unified, real-time data foundation. When payments, point-of-sale, ticketing, and loyalty feed one system, an operator can act while the fan is still in the building; when they sit in silos, the moment is already gone. They also look at where things head next, from AI working behind the scenes and as a fan-facing concierge, to the rise of agentic commerce. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/41995565

Daniel Yarmoluk - The Context Window Bottleneck 06/15/2026

Daniel Yarmoluk - The Context Window Bottleneck Daniel Yarmoluk, AI architect and founder of GraphifyMD who is also an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas, joins the podcast to discuss why the context window—not raw model power—has become the real bottleneck for enterprise AI. As token consumption soars and agent workforces scale, Daniel and host Michael Gale reframe the challenge as one of architecture: most context capacity is consumed by orchestration, rules, and probabilistic RAG, leaving only a sliver for the domain knowledge that drives good decisions. They explore what metrics CFOs should really be prioritizing, such as cost-per-inference and "intelligence per watt." They also examine why knowledge graphs and ontologies, not more pattern matching, are the way to reduce hallucination and drift, especially for high-stakes industries. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/41650465

Rob Feldman and Priyanka Jain - Governing the Agentic Workforce 06/10/2026

Rob Feldman and Priyanka Jain - Governing the Agentic Workforce As a billion agents join the workforce, Rob Feldman, Chief Legal Officer at EDB, and Priyanka Jain, VP of Product, AI and Governance at EDB, unpack why this newly converged world of AI and data demands a new kind of governance — one that runs 24/7, at agent speed. Together they explain why the question is no longer "is this agent allowed to do this?" but "is this agent, for this user, with this intent, allowed to do this right now — and can we see exactly what it did?", why self-regulating now beats waiting on regulators, and how a "digital leash" keeps an autonomous agent workforce accountable. The conversation presents leaders with a practical, phased roadmap centered on a core principle: governance can't be an after-the-fact review — it has to start at the data layer, enforcing the rules before an agent ever touches the data. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/41527335

Diana Wu David - Multi-Stack Transformation 05/27/2026

Diana Wu David - Multi-Stack Transformation Diana Wu David, Director of Futures at ServiceNow and a top-ranked global futurist, discusses the radical "multi-stack transformation" facing organizations in 2026. Diana explores the stark divide in AI optimism between the East and West, and how this cultural sentiment shapes global adoption. She also outlines a roadmap for leaders to move past "pilot purgatory" by adopting a "strong, fluid stance" — balancing stable, deterministic workflows with the generative potential of AI. The conversation focuses on how the C-suite must now coalesce to orchestrate an agentic workforce, onboarding digital employees and pivoting human talent into high-value revenue streams that were previously unimaginable. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/40142575

Telisa Yancy - Future of Insurance and the Impact of AI 05/13/2026

Telisa Yancy - Future of Insurance and the Impact of AI Telisa Yancy discusses the future of insurance in the rapidly evolving digital and AI-driven world. She highlights the significance of insurance as a crucial purchase for individuals and families and the opportunities for transformation in the industry. Telisa emphasizes the role of data and real-time processing in providing more customer-driven insurance solutions. She envisions traditional lines of insurance becoming smarter and more capable of insuring assets on the fly with minimal information. We also discuss the potential for proactive risk prevention and the need for a balance between privacy and data usage. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39789420

Sarah Fay - The Future of Personal Data 04/29/2026

Sarah Fay - The Future of Personal Data Sarah Fay discusses the topic of personal data ownership and the importance of individuals having control over their own information. We explore the challenges of data privacy and the potential risks of data breaches. The conversation also touched upon the role of regulations like GDPR in protecting individuals' data rights. We considered the benefits and drawbacks of companies buying and selling data, highlighting the potential for exploitation and the need for transparency and consent. The ethical implications of monetizing personal data were raised, including concerns about fairness and the potential for discrimination. The conversation also touched upon the role of artificial intelligence in data analysis, discussing the potential for algorithmic biases. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39789340

Charlene Li - Winning with AI 04/15/2026

Charlene Li - Winning with AI Charlene Li, New York Times bestselling author and business transformation expert, joins the podcast to provide a strategic masterclass on navigating the AI transition. As the co-author of the new book Winning with AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success, Charlene argues that the current 87% failure rate in enterprise AI projects stems from treating the technology as a "hammer looking for a nail" rather than a transformational business initiative. The conversation dives deep into the practical frameworks required to move beyond aimless "pilot purgatory". Charlene breaks down the necessity of "Goldilocks Governance" and explains why the next year will see a massive explosion of "embodied AI" through an agentic workforce. From the "forensic re-examination" of broken business processes to the shift toward "AI fluency" as a core leadership trait, this episode serves as a vital guide for leaders looking to generate measurable business value from AI within a data-saturated world. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/40765325

Melissa Grady - The Motor Industry's Future Opportunities 04/01/2026

Melissa Grady - The Motor Industry's Future Opportunities Melissa Grady, former CMO of Cadillac, discusses the motor industry's past, present, and future, focusing on the legendary automaker's 118-year DNA of innovation—from the first electric starter to modern hands-free driving—and how it is now accelerating toward a "full-on" EV reality. Grady also lays out a vision for the future of the luxury vehicle industry, where personalization, sustainability, and digital intimacy define the modern driving experience. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39789285

Seth Dobrin - The Next Generation of Artificial Intelligence 03/25/2026

Seth Dobrin - The Next Generation of Artificial Intelligence Dr. Seth Dobrin, formerly the first-ever Global Chief AI Officer at IBM and now founder of Arya Labs and Qantm AI, joins the podcast to provide a masterclass in the next generation of artificial intelligence. Seth introduces World Models as physics-based systems that understand causality and 3D space, allowing AI to reason within the physical world by simulating reality much like the human brain. The conversation spans the immediate future of "embodied AI" in robotics, the critical ROI case for small models, the vital importance of deterministic AI for mission-critical industries, and a sobering look at why current AI business models may not be sustainable without a radical shift toward safety and profitability. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/40142035

Dr. John Kotter - Change Management and Leadership 03/04/2026

Dr. John Kotter - Change Management and Leadership Dr. John Kotter, New York Times best-selling author and Harvard Business School professor, discusses how leadership remains rooted in human nature even as technology accelerates the rate of change. He explains that leaders must manage the brain's dual channels: the "survive" channel, which scans for threats and generates anxiety, and the "thrive" channel, which fuels passion and energy. To navigate a landscape of constant competition and disruption, Kotter advocates for a "dual system" that integrates traditional hierarchy with a networked culture to empower leadership at every level. This model ensures organizations can rapidly adapt to new and complex challenges that a single leader or bureaucracy cannot handle alone. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39667975

Ron Martino - The Emergence of The Edge Economy 02/18/2026

Ron Martino - The Emergence of The Edge Economy Ron Martino, former Executive Vice President at NXP Semiconductors, discusses the emergence of the edge economy and the transition toward a world of 75 billion connected devices. He explores how distributed computing—embedded in everything from autonomous vehicles to agricultural sensors—enables real-time, local data processing that enhances productivity and safety while reducing energy waste. Martino also highlights the future of human-machine interaction and sustainable innovation, such as harvesting energy from the soil via photosynthesis to power the next generation of "super-intelligent" devices. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39667765

Karl Pierburg - Operationalize AI and Data in a High-Stakes Environment 02/04/2026

Karl Pierburg - Operationalize AI and Data in a High-Stakes Environment Karl Pierburg, SVP, CTO, and Football Strategy & Innovation Officer for the Atlanta Falcons, discusses what it means to operationalize AI and data in a high-stakes, real-time environment. From shaping weekly game plans to enabling smarter in-game adjustments, Karl explains how analytics has evolved from a support function into an essential part of coaching decision-making. The conversation also moves beyond the field into Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where AI powers faster entry, frictionless concessions, and increasingly personalized fan journeys— while still preserving the human elements that make live sports special. Karl shares lessons on scaling impact with small teams, balancing automation with emotion, and why deliberate, governed use of data is what creates lasting competitive advantage. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39734475

Nate Yohannes - The Broad Implications of AI Technology 01/21/2026

Nate Yohannes - The Broad Implications of AI Technology Nate Yohannes, former Obama administration staffer and former AI product leader at Meta and Microsoft, discusses the imperative of embedding ethics and representation into the design stage of AI to mitigate unintended societal harms. He advocates for public-private partnerships to bridge the digital divide and democratize access to technology for underserved communities. Yohannes highlights how tools like holographic computing can advance human ingenuity and provide customized education, ensuring AI serves as a catalyst for global inclusion rather than just a replacement for labor. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39667720

John Hagel - The Evolution of Virtual Communities 01/07/2026

John Hagel - The Evolution of Virtual Communities John Hagel, renowned author of Net Gain and former Co-Chairman of the Deloitte Center for the Edge, discusses the evolution of virtual communities and the shifting landscape of digital trust. He emphasizes the "Zoom Out / Zoom In" strategy as a way for leaders to identify massive future opportunities while taking immediate, practical steps to achieve them. The conversation explores the need to move past fear-based narratives surrounding AI, the potential for technology to free humans for more creative work, and the importance of fostering the "passion of the explorer" within organizations. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39633430

Raja Rajamannar - The Changing Role of a CMO 11/11/2025

Raja Rajamannar - The Changing Role of a CMO Raja Rajamannar discusses the changing role of the Chief Marketing Officer. The conversation highlights the need for CMOs to embrace both classical marketing skills and contemporary knowledge of technology and data in order to stay relevant. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/39001340

Blake Russell - Cloning and Potential Impact on Society 11/06/2025

Blake Russell - Cloning and Potential Impact on Society Blake Russell discusses cloning and its societal implications. He emphasizes the emotional connection between people and their pets and the potential of cloning to extend that bond. We discuss the need for education and awareness about cloning, the possibility of genetic alterations, and the importance of regulatory frameworks. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/38940295

Charlene Li - Future Leadership, Technology and Societal Changes 11/05/2025

Charlene Li - Future Leadership, Technology and Societal Changes Charlene Li discusses the future of leadership, technology, and societal changes. We delve into how leadership styles are evolving from hierarchical to relational, emphasizing the importance of continuous transformation. We explore also the potential impact of quantum computing and the possibilities of integrating technology into human bodies. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/38928655

Steven Goldbach and Geoff Tuff - Overcoming fatal human flaws in the face of exponential change 10/08/2025

Steven Goldbach and Geoff Tuff - Overcoming fatal human flaws in the face of exponential change Deloitte’s Steven Goldbach and Geoff Tuff argue that successful leaders don’t wait for certainty—they create it. Drawing on insights from their book Provoke, they explain why bold, incremental moves are more powerful than grand forecasts, and how to overcome the human bias that keeps organizations clinging to the familiar. Two years later, their message feels prophetic: in the AI era, the leaders who thrive are those willing to experiment, adapt, and act decisively amid uncertainty. Key takeaways: Don’t predict—provoke: The future belongs to those who take small, strategic actions that shape outcomes. Overcome human bias: Fear, comfort, and inertia are bigger barriers than technology. Build learning organizations: Reward experimentation and curiosity to stay adaptable. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/38517050

Peter Arduini - AI's Impact on Healthcare Transformation 10/08/2025

Peter Arduini - AI's Impact on Healthcare Transformation Healthcare is under pressure: aging populations, clinician shortages, and rising costs. In this episode, Michael Gale talks with Peter Arduini about GE Healthcare’s AI-first strategy—from workflow optimization to diagnostic imaging—and how these efforts are redefining care delivery worldwide. Learn: How GE Healthcare is deploying AI models across imaging modalities The importance of balancing speed and ethics in medical AI Lessons on scaling innovation in highly regulated industries /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/38513820

Dave Stangis - The Future of the Food Industry 10/07/2025

Dave Stangis - The Future of the Food Industry Dave Stangis discusses the future of the food industry, particularly in relation to sustainability and innovation. Dave emphasizes the importance of sustainability as a strategic tool for companies to stay ahead of trends and build resilient supply chains. He notes that decision-making cycles in the industry need to be faster due to the evolving market. The conversation highlights surprising trends such as the convergence of technology and food, the growing consumer demand for sustainable choices, and the potential transformation of packaging and plastics. Dave predicts future macro-trends including purpose-driven companies, carbon-positive agriculture, and advancements in data analytics and technology in agriculture. /episode/index/show/3658aa8a-b828-42db-be48-b8759d64ab95/id/38500565

AI and Data Horizons

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