Powered by RND
PodcastsBusinessThe AI Grapple

The AI Grapple

The AI Grapple
The AI Grapple
Latest episode

Available Episodes

5 of 36
  • Ep 36: AI, Careers & Confidence: How to Future-Proof Your Professional Path with Dr. Kyle Elliott
    In this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Dr Kyle Elliott, a career coach to tech executives and founder of CaffeinatedKyle.com. From humble beginnings offering £5 CV reviews on Fiverr to coaching leaders into top roles at Meta, Google and Amazon, Kyle shares what’s really happening in the job market - and how AI is shifting everything from CVs to C-suite expectations. Whether you’re a job seeker, business leader or simply watching the AI wave roll in, this episode delivers grounded, practical advice to help you stay relevant, empowered and ahead of the curve. What We Cover: 👉 Why middle management is most at risk - and what to do about it Kyle shares what he's seeing across his client base: mid-level roles are often being consolidated or automated. It’s not about roles disappearing completely, but shifting into jobs that involve managing AI-powered processes instead of performing tasks manually. He explains how professionals can identify emerging opportunities and pivot early. 👉 The AI tools job seekers should be using now (and how to train them) AI isn’t magic - it only knows what you give it. Kyle explains how his clients use tools like ChatGPT to write CVs, simulate interviews and even explore new career paths. But success depends on input: the better the data you provide (like performance reviews or personal profiles), the better the output AI delivers. 👉 How AI is changing executive-level hiring and job strategy Even at the top, AI is having an impact. Kyle explains how senior leaders are being assessed differently, what they’re worried about, and how they're learning to talk about AI in ways that show leadership, not fear. It’s about knowing when to use AI - and when to lean on your human skills. 👉 The emotional side of job searching in the age of automation Being made redundant or feeling threatened by change brings real emotional challenges. Kyle talks about the role of mindset coaching and shares an example of a custom GPT built to motivate and coach a client through job hunting - including cheering them on when things got tough. 👉 Why the best AI results come from knowing yourself better To get personalised, useful help from AI, you have to start with self-awareness. Kyle talks about the importance of building a “professional me” document - a profile of your background, skills, preferences and values - that can train AI to reflect who you really are and what you need next in your career. 🔗 Connect with Dr Kyle Elliott: Website: CaffeinatedKyle.com LinkedIn: Dr Kyle Elliott   👍 Like what you heard? Subscribe to The AI Grapple on your favourite platform and leave us a rating or review. It really helps others find the show. 🎧 Listen now → www.aigrapple.com 💬 Join the conversation: AI Success Lab Facebook Group
    --------  
    30:47
  • Ep 35: Beyond Hype: Real Ways AI Is Changing How We Shop Online, with Simon Yencken
    In this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Simon Yencken, Founder and CEO of Fanplayr. What if you could deliver hyper-personalised experiences that delight customers without creeping them out? Simon is a true pioneer at the intersection of AI, behavioural data, and e-commerce. His career has taken him from global finance and SaaS to founding Fanplayr, a company that's helping brands deliver smarter, faster, privacy-respecting customer experiences. We dig into how AI is reshaping e-commerce, why privacy-first strategies are critical for survival, and what the future holds for businesses brave enough to embrace the next wave of AI innovation. If you’re in marketing, business, or tech — this is an episode you won't want to miss.   🎯 Key Highlights ✔️ Simon's Journey to Fanplayr From legal partner in Australia, to global finance at Reuters, through the dot-com boom, SaaS success stories — and finally founding Fanplayr to bring real-time optimisation to e-commerce. ✔️ What Fanplayr Actually Does  Using patented segmentation technology and AI-driven personalization to enhance customer experiences, increase conversion rates, and boost lifetime value — all built on first-party data.   ✔️ The Rise of Privacy-First Personalisation Simon explains how Fanplayr helps businesses move beyond third-party cookies, using tools like Privacy ID to comply with GDPR and still deliver tailored experiences. ✔️ How AI is Revolutionising Online Merchandising Beyond basic recommendations, Fanplayr’s AI matches users with exactly what they want — even before they know they want it — using machine learning and personalisation engines.   ✔️ The "Creepiness" Factor We discuss how to personalise without feeling intrusive — and why transparency and trust will define the next decade of online customer relationships.   ✔️ Regional Differences: US vs Europe Simon shares why privacy regulations are tougher in Europe, and how businesses are adapting differently in the US and UK markets. ✔️ ChatGPT, Hype vs Reality Simon shares his take on large language models like ChatGPT, and why the future of AI won't be one single exponential curve — but rather a series of powerful "S-curves" as new breakthroughs emerge. ✔️ AI’s Impact on SaaS and Business Models Why the SaaS pricing and licensing world is ripe for disruption — and how traditional tech giants will have to evolve or risk being left behind. ✔️ Avoiding the AI Bubble Simon warns about the huge number of AI startups building on shaky ground — and shares why sustainable innovation will be what separates winners from losers. ✔️ What Excites Simon About the Future AI is at the start of a genuine tech revolution — and it’s opening opportunities that are bigger and more exciting than anything since the rise of the internet. 📌 Connect with Simon Yencken: Visit Fanplayr.com: Learn more about Simon’s company and solutions. Connect with Fanplayr on LinkedIn Know a someone who needs to hear this? Share this episode with a friend, team member, or mentor who’s ready to embrace AI and lead with clarity. 👍 Like what you heard? Subscribe to The AI Grapple on your favourite platform and leave us a rating or review. It really helps others find the show. 🎧 Listen now → www.aigrapple.com 💬 Join the conversation: AI Success Lab Facebook Group
    --------  
    48:24
  • Ep 34: Unbias the Algorithm: AI as a Tool for Gender Equity with Dr Alessandra Wall
    In this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Dr Alessandra Wall - psychologist, leadership strategist, and founder of Noteworthy - to explore how AI can help women reshape their careers instead of fearing job loss. Alessandra works with high-performing women in tech who are often juggling expectations, under-recognised achievements, and the ever-growing mental load. This conversation digs into what’s holding women back in AI and tech, the biases baked into systems, and how AI - when done right - can unlock time, ease, and leadership opportunities for women at every level. ✨ Key Highlights: ➡️ Alessandra’s career journey - from psychology to empowering women in tech Alessandra shares how growing up with ADHD shaped her drive and work ethic, and how that personal experience guided her into a career in psychology. After hitting burnout, she transitioned into coaching, now using those same therapeutic tools to support women navigating the high-stakes world of tech and leadership. ➡️ Being the only woman in the room - and why it’s still happening We unpack the systemic issues that continue to isolate women in tech and AI - from a lack of early representation to high attrition at senior levels. Alessandra shares why women are still fighting for authority, even at the top, and why the system needs more than a token fix. ➡️ Can AI reduce bias? Yes - if we train it right AI reflects the data it’s fed. Alessandra explains how recruitment tools can either reinforce bias or break it - and why the people building these systems need to prioritise diversity and allyship to get meaningful results. Garbage in, garbage out doesn’t have to be inevitable. ➡️ The invisible workload: How AI can lighten the mental load From scheduling appointments to managing family logistics, women often carry the bulk of home-life organisation. Alessandra shares how AI is already helping her - and her clients - reclaim headspace and time, freeing them up to lead more fully at work and live more fully at home. ➡️ AI isn’t just for engineers - how every woman can use it to stay competitive You don’t need a tech background to benefit from AI. Whether you’re in marketing, coaching, or finance, understanding how to use AI as a productivity and strategy tool is a major edge. Alessandra breaks down how women can upskill and support others through this transition. ➡️ Parkour and AI - yes, really! Alessandra compares learning AI to her journey into parkour at 37 - a male-dominated, intimidating space where women hesitate to jump in. Her advice? We need more women teaching women how to navigate and own these tools. The power is in mastering the basics, together. 📌 Connect with Dr Alessandra Wall: Website: https://noteworthyinc.co LinkedIn: Dr Alessandra Wall on LinkedIn Know a woman who needs to hear this? Share this episode with a friend, team member, or mentor who’s ready to embrace AI and lead with clarity. 👍 Like what you heard? Subscribe to The AI Grapple on your favourite platform and leave us a rating or review. It really helps others find the show. 🎧 Listen now → www.aigrapple.com 💬 Join the conversation: AI Success Lab Facebook Group
    --------  
    47:41
  • Ep 33: Navigating AI’s Geopolitical Shifts with Jisoo Kim
    AI is moving at breakneck speed, and nowhere is that more evident than on the global stage. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, alliances are forming, and nations are racing to lead in this transformative era. But what does it mean for Australia? And how can businesses navigate both the risks and the opportunities? In this episode, I sit down with Jisoo Kim, Director and Co-Founder of Clear AI, to explore the human side of AI adoption, the mindset shifts organisations need to embrace, and the challenges of navigating AI’s rapid development. With a background in national security, international relations, and even a stint as a digital media adviser to former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Jisoo brings a fascinating perspective on AI’s role in both business and global affairs. From AI safety to the complex dynamics between the US, China, and Australia, this conversation is both timely and thought-provoking. We also dive into how organisations can overcome fear, build AI literacy, and lead with curiosity in this ever-changing landscape. Note: AI evolves rapidly, and this discussion was accurate at the time of recording. Key Highlights: Jisoo’s Journey from National Security to AI Entrepreneurship Jisoo shares her fascinating career path, starting from her early interest in politics and international relations, shaped by her family's experience with the Korean War. From working as a digital media adviser to former Prime Minister Scott Morrison to serving as a policy adviser at the Department of Defence, Jisoo brings a wealth of experience to her AI advisory work. She explains how her background in national security informs her perspective on AI’s risks and opportunities. The Human Side of AI Adoption While AI is often seen as a purely technical challenge, Jisoo emphasises that successful adoption is as much about mindset and culture as it is about technology. She discusses why curiosity, psychological safety, and executive leadership are key to overcoming fear and uncertainty. Jisoo also shares stories of organisations that have empowered employees to experiment with AI and how this approach leads to greater innovation. The Geopolitical AI Landscape The competition between the US and China in AI development has far-reaching implications. Jisoo provides a clear breakdown of the ongoing semiconductor battle, the significance of the US Chips Act, and how Australia is positioned in this global race. She also highlights the importance of responsible AI development and the need for international cooperation — even as geopolitical tensions rise. AI Safety and Responsible Regulation From misinformation to surveillance concerns, Jisoo dives into the complex challenges of AI safety. She discusses why regulation often lags behind the pace of technological change and why businesses can’t afford to wait for governments to set all the rules. Instead, she advocates for proactive corporate responsibility, clear internal policies, and cross-sector collaboration. Addressing AI Fear and Misinformation Fear often prevents organisations from fully embracing AI, whether it's concerns over job loss or uncertainty about data security. Jisoo shares practical advice on how companies can approach AI adoption thoughtfully — starting small, experimenting with use cases, and ensuring employees are part of the journey. She explains why transparency and communication from leadership are critical to reducing fear and building trust. AI in Australia and Its Role on the Global Stage Jisoo highlights Australia’s unique position as a middle power with strong alliances. She explores how Australia can not only adopt AI responsibly but also support neighbouring countries through knowledge sharing and capacity building. She stresses the importance of ensuring AI benefits are distributed equitably, particularly in developing regions. Choosing and Using AI Tools Wisely In a landscape filled with rapidly evolving AI tools, Jisoo and Kate discuss their experiences using platforms like ChatGPT, Notebook LM, and Copilot. Jisoo shares her thoughts on how organisations can navigate the overwhelming number of options by focusing on practical, impactful use cases rather than chasing the latest shiny tool. The Future of AI in Business and Society Looking ahead, Jisoo predicts how AI will continue to shape industries, from education and healthcare to defence and creative fields. She also shares her hopes for more collaboration, responsible innovation, and global cooperation in AI development. This episode is packed with valuable insights for business leaders, policymakers, and anyone curious about the intersection of AI, security, and global politics. Connect with Jisoo Kim: LinkedIn: Jisoo Kim on LinkedIn Website: clearai.com.au 👍 Like what you heard? Subscribe to The AI Grapple on your favourite platform and leave us a rating or review. It really helps others find the show. 🎧 Listen now → www.aigrapple.com 💬 Join the conversation: AI Success Lab Facebook Group
    --------  
    46:45
  • Ep 32: AI, Ethics, and Military Leadership: Navigating the Risks with Jason West
    Today, we’re tackling the profound ethical dilemmas posed by AI in military decision-making. Kate vanderVoort sits down with Jason West, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer who retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after more than a decade of service. With first hand experience participating in AI-driven war simulations and understanding how autonomous systems could be used in modern warfare, Jason brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Now the founder of Officers Eat Last and author of Leadership Development – A Blueprint for Building Your Leadership Foundation, Jason helps business leaders navigate ethical decision-making and responsible leadership — lessons drawn from both the battlefield and the boardroom. From the risks of AI making life-and-death decisions to how businesses can use AI responsibly, this conversation will challenge how you think about AI, leadership, and accountability. Tune in for a powerful discussion that will leave you thinking long after the episode ends. Key Highlights 🔎 Jason’s Dual Career Journey From finance to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Jason shares how his military background shaped his views on leadership and ethics. Why he founded Officers Eat Last to help business leaders apply military leadership principles in the corporate world. 🤖 AI in Warfare: The Ethical Dilemma Jason explains the concept of "human in the loop" vs. "human on the loop" decision-making and how AI is influencing military operations. Insights from his participation in AI-driven war games, simulating futuristic combat scenarios. The chilling possibility of AI making autonomous life-and-death decisions, and the need for robust ethical frameworks to prevent misuse. 🛡️ Maintaining Human Accountability The risks of removing the human element from critical decision-making processes. Jason’s belief that any AI with the potential to take lives must be governed by human oversight and clear accountability. 🏢 Responsible AI in Business Drawing from military lessons, Jason offers guidance on how companies can integrate AI responsibly. The importance of ethical leadership in ensuring AI serves humanity rather than replacing its moral responsibilities. Why leaders must consider the long-term social impact of AI-driven decisions, not just immediate profitability. 🌍 Geopolitical Implications of AI How AI is fueling a modern-day technological arms race between nations. Jason's perspective on “peer competitors” and the role of AI in defense strategy. The importance of international collaboration and regulation to prevent the misuse of AI in warfare. 🔔 The Path Forward Jason’s optimism about AI’s potential when used responsibly. Why companies should focus on upskilling their workforce rather than simply replacing jobs with AI. The importance of governance and oversight to ensure AI remains aligned with human values. Connect with Jason West Website: Officers Eat Last LinkedIn: Jason West on LinkedIn  👍 Like what you heard? Subscribe to The AI Grapple on your favourite platform and leave us a rating or review. It really helps others find the show. 🎧 Listen now → www.aigrapple.com 💬 Join the conversation: AI Success Lab Facebook Group  
    --------  
    55:31

More Business podcasts

About The AI Grapple

Unravel the complexities of AI with The AI Grapple Podcast, hosted by Kate vanderVoort. Dive into thought-provoking discussions on the most critical AI issues shaping our world. Perfect for marketers and business professionals, this podcast is your guide to integrating AI responsibly and ethically into your organization. Join us as we navigate the future of technology and its profound impact on humanity.
Podcast website

Listen to The AI Grapple, The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app

Get the free radio.net app

  • Stations and podcasts to bookmark
  • Stream via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
  • Supports Carplay & Android Auto
  • Many other app features
Social
v7.20.0 | © 2007-2025 radio.de GmbH
Generated: 7/2/2025 - 12:47:27 PM