Shift AI with Boaz Ashkenazy

Latest Episodes:

Reshaping Workplace Communication with AI, Textio Co-Founder Kieran Snyder Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Kieran Snyder, co-founder of Textio, joins Boaz Ashkenazy to explore the evolving landscape of AI in workplace communications. From her early days combining linguistics and engineering to pioneering bias detection in HR technology, Snyder shares unique insights into the responsible development of AI technologies. The conversation delves into the challenges of bias in large language models, the future of enterprise AI adoption, and observations about how different generations approach AI tools. Drawing from her experience early pre-ChatGPT development and her recent survey of students' AI usage, Snyder offers a thoughtful perspective on the intersection of AI and human labor. Whether you're interested in the future of workplace communication, the challenges of bias in AI, or how the next generation will reshape our relationship with technology, this episode provides valuable insights from someone who has been at the forefront of AI innovation for over a decade.

Chapters:

[00:00] The Current State of AI Adoption

[02:04] Origins and Background: From Engineering to Entrepreneurship

[06:52] The Evolution of Textio: From Word Processing to HR Tech

[09:36] Generative AI and Early Industry Insights

[14:26] Addressing Bias in AI Systems

[17:41] The AI Rush: Challenges in Enterprise Adoption

[22:12] The Next Generation's Perspective on AI

[26:17] AI Policy and Regulation

[28:50] Mentorship and the Future of Work

[34:33] Looking Ahead: The Actively Emerging Future

Connect with Kieran Snyder

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-snyder/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

Revolutionizing Healthcare Through AI with Providence Chief Transformation Officer Sara Vaezy Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Sara Vaezy, Chief Transformation Officer at Providence, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore the transformative impact of AI in Healthcare. From Providence's groundbreaking response to the COVID-19 pandemic to their innovative implementation of AI solutions, Vaezy shares insights into how one of America's leading healthcare systems is revolutionizing patient care and clinical workflows. Learn how Providence is tackling healthcare's biggest challenges through AI-powered solutions, from reducing clinician workload to improving patient access and communication. If you're interested in the future of healthcare technology, responsible AI implementation in clinical settings, or the evolution of patient care in the digital age, this episode offers invaluable insights from the frontlines of healthcare innovation.

Chapters:

[00:00] Early Beginnings: From Music to Healthcare

[04:37] The Journey to Providence Healthcare

[07:17] Digital Health Acceleration During COVID-19

[13:20] AI Implementation Strategy and Resource Allocation

[16:11] Innovation in Patient Message Management

[22:06] Navigating Privacy and Technical Challenges

[26:50] Strategic Partnerships in Healthcare Innovation

[28:47] The Power of Mentorship and Professional Growth

[32:18] Future of AI in Healthcare

[35:50] Democratizing Healthcare and Work

Connect with Sara Vaezy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svaezy/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

How AI is Making Work Manageable with Smartsheet's President of Product Praerit Garg Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Praerit Garg, President of Product and Innovation at Smartsheet, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how AI is revolutionizing enterprise work management. From his journey through Microsoft and AWS to leading innovation at Smartsheet, Garg shares insights into how generative AI is transforming how organizations handle complex workflows and make data-driven decisions. Learn how Smartsheet is using AI to simplify formula creation, automate data analysis, and empower business users to work more efficiently. If you're interested in how AI is reshaping enterprise productivity and the future of work, you won't want to miss this conversation about building trust in AI systems and creating more delightful work experiences.

Chapters:

02:09 Journey to Seattle: From India to Microsoft

03:39 The Evolution to Smartsheet Leadership

05:20 The Gift of Generative AI

07:53 Transforming Business User Experience

09:38 Customer Success and Security

16:00 Navigating Non-Deterministic Systems

18:38 Real-World AI Applications

23:50 Leadership Philosophy and Human Alignment

25:56 The Church of Company Culture

31:12 The Future is Super Bright

Connect with Praerit Garg

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/praerit-garg/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

How Brain-Computer Interfaces Are Shaping Our AI Future with Neurable CEO Ramses Alcaide Jan 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, host Boaz Ashkenazy sits down with Ramses Alcaide, CEO of Neurable, to explore the groundbreaking intersection of neurotechnology and artificial intelligence. Alcaide shares his journey from fixing computers as a 12-year-old entrepreneur to revolutionizing human-computer interaction through brain-sensing technology. At the heart of their discussion is Neurable's innovative smart headphone technology, which can read brain activity to track focus, prevent burnout, and even enable thought-based device control.

From reducing workplace stress to potentially transforming how we diagnose neurological conditions, Alcaide paints a fascinating picture of a future where our minds seamlessly interface with AI to enhance human capabilities. He reveals how their partnership with Master & Dynamic is bringing this technology to consumers through stylish headphones that can help users maintain productivity and achieve better work-life balance. The conversation delves into both immediate applications, like focus tracking and burnout prevention, and longer-term possibilities including AR integration and medical applications.

If you're interested in the future of human-computer interaction, workplace wellness, or the convergence of mind and artificial intelligence, this episode offers an enlightening glimpse into how neurotechnology is poised to transform our daily lives.

Chapters:

01:45 Introduction and Background

04:37 The Potential of Neurotechnology and Brain-Computer Interfaces

07:41 Use Cases and How Neurotechnology Works

12:40 Updates and Challenges in Neurotechnology

20:01 Positive Outcomes and Future Possibilities

24:06 The Future of Work and AI

25:44 The Importance of Mentorship and Lessons Learned

27:40 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Connect Ramses Alcaide

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pharoramses/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

Email: shift@augmentedailabs.com

Building AI-Driven Ventures with Amp It Up Ventures Founder Kabir Shahani Dec 19, 2024

Show notes

In this illuminating episode of the Shift AI Podcast, serial entrepreneur Kabir Shahani joins Boaz Ashkenazy to discuss his journey from founding Amperity to launching Amp It Up Ventures. Shahani shares deep insights into building AI-powered enterprises and his unique approach to company creation through his new venture studio.

He reveals details about two stealth companies, Adora and Avante, both tackling trillion-dollar markets with innovative AI solutions. From digital advertising to healthcare, Shahani explains how AI is fundamentally shifting business paradigms and why staying ahead of this transformation is crucial for modern enterprises. This episode offers invaluable lessons about entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the future of AI-driven business transformation.

Chapters:

[00:01:57] Early Days: From Kansas to Seattle

[00:07:48] Building Amperity: The Customer-First Approach

[00:14:33] The Transition: Leaving Amperity & Starting Anew

[00:19:58] Amp It Up Ventures: A New Model

[00:24:26] The Playbook Approach

[00:27:26] The Two Companies: Adora & Avante

[00:36:00] The Three Pillars of Support: Coaches, Mentors & Sponsors

[00:39:46] The Future: Paradigm & Enablement

Connect with Kabir Shahani

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabirshahani/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

How High Expectations and Flexibility Drive Innovation with Artemis CEO Christy Johnson Dec 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Christy Johnson, CEO of Artemis Connection and former McKinsey consultant, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how companies can create more flexible, inclusive workplaces while maintaining high performance. Drawing from her journey from high school teacher to McKinsey consultant to CEO, Johnson shares insights on revolutionizing traditional consulting models, embracing AI in the workplace, and fostering human potential.

You want to make sure you get in on this conversation if you're interested in the intersection of AI, workplace flexibility, and maintaining high expectations in the evolving business landscape.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Setting High Expectations in the Age of AI

[00:02:01] From Teaching Math to McKinsey: Christy's Journey

[00:05:03] Growing Up Entrepreneurial in Washington State

[00:09:16] The Birth of Artemis Connection

[00:13:40] Reimagining Workplace Flexibility and Talent

[00:17:44] AI's Impact on Future Work Models

[00:19:53] Teaching Entrepreneurship in the AI Era

[00:23:14] The Power of Mentorship and Apprenticeship

[00:26:04] Supporting Women in Business Leadership

[00:31:19] High Expectations: The Future of Work

Connect with Christy Johnson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyjohnsonwel/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

AI Security at the Crossroads with Professor David Danks and HydroX CEO Zhou Li Dec 06, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, host Boaz Ashkenazy is joined by two pioneering experts in AI security and ethics: David Danks, Professor of Data Science and Philosophy at UC San Diego, and Zhou Li, founder and CEO of HydroX AI. Together, they explore the critical intersection of AI adoption, security, and trust in an era of unprecedented technological change.

Drawing from their extensive experience at leading tech companies and academic institutions, Danks and Li offer unique insights into why AI security must be built into systems from the ground up, rather than added as an afterthought. They discuss real-world security risks while emphasizing the importance of human values in AI system design.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as they explore how the traditional cybersecurity paradigm is being reimagined for the AI age. If you're interested in understanding how organizations can safely adopt AI while managing risks and building trust, this episode provides essential insights from two leaders at the forefront of AI safety and ethics.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Opening Thoughts on AI's Rapid Evolution

[00:01:43] Introduction to Our Distinguished Guests

[00:03:35] First Jobs and Career Beginnings

[00:05:19] The Evolution of AI Ethics and Trust

[00:10:35] Security Experience at Tech Giants

[00:13:48] Current State of AI Adoption

[00:20:51] Real-world AI Security Risks and Threats

[00:28:57] Mentorship and Inspiration

[00:32:35] Future of Work: Two-Word Predictions

Connect with David Danks

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-danks-21538613/

Connect with Zhuo Li

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhuo-li-4830a145/

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

Architecting the Future of Building Design with NBBJ Futurist Kristen Forward Nov 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Kristen Forward, Design Technology Futures Leader at NBBJ, joins Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how AI and computational design are revolutionizing architectural practice. From her unique journey starting in finance to becoming a pioneer in architectural technology, Forward shares insights into how one of Seattle's preeminent architecture firms is integrating AI into their design process. She discusses how data-driven approaches and artificial intelligence are transforming everything from initial concept development to regulatory compliance in building design. If you're curious about how AI is reshaping the future of architecture and workplace design, particularly in healthcare and tech spaces, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into what's possible when human creativity meets computational innovation.

Chapters:

[00:01:38] Meeting Kristen Forward

[00:04:06] NBBJ's Global Impact

[00:05:26] Creative Origins and Family Influence

[00:08:02] The Evolution of Computational Design

[00:11:37] AI Integration in Building Design

[00:15:41] Training and Ethics in AI Architecture

[00:24:26] Mentorship in Modern Architecture

[00:26:22] Remote Work's Impact on Design

[00:28:42] The Future: Collective and Regenerative

Connect with Kristen Forward

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen4ward

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

The Future of Intelligent Hearables with UW Professor of CSE Shyam Gollakota Nov 07, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Boaz Ashkenazy sits down with Professor Shyam Gollakota, a pioneering researcher and entrepreneur from the University of Washington's Mobile Intelligence Lab. Gollakota shares his groundbreaking work on intelligent hearables and proactive speech agents that could revolutionize how we interact with sound and AI. From noise-filtering earbuds that can isolate specific voices in crowded spaces to AI agents that anticipate our needs in real time, Gollakota's vision of human-AI symbiosis offers a glimpse into a future where technology seamlessly enhances our natural capabilities. Whether you're fascinated by the intersection of hardware and artificial intelligence or curious about how AI might augment human potential, this episode provides fascinating insights into the next frontier of human-computer interaction.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] From Programming to Problem-Solving: Shyam's Journey

[00:02:04] Academic Entrepreneurship: From IIT to UW

[00:04:38] The Mobile Intelligence Lab Vision

[00:06:35] Intelligent Hearables: Transforming Sound Perception

[00:12:47] The Technology Behind AI-Enhanced Hearing

[00:17:25] Proactive Speech Agents: The Future of AI Assistance

[00:21:48] Mentorship and AI Personas

[00:24:15] Sound, Evolution, and Human Adaptation

[00:26:57] Science Fiction Becoming Reality

[00:30:12] Closing Thoughts: The Human-AI Future

Connect with Shyam Gollakota

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shyam-gollakota-4125b2159

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai

Taking on Cyberstalking against Women with Certifi CEO Melissa Hutchins Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, we dive into the critical issue of digital harassment against women with Melissa Hutchins, CEO of Certifi AI. Melissa shares her personal experience with cyberstalking and how it inspired her to develop AI-driven solutions to combat online abuse. She discusses Certifi AI's innovative approach to detecting manipulated images and videos, including insights into the challenges of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of resilience and having a personal connection to the problem being solved. The conversation also touches on the future of work, with Melissa highlighting the need for ethical AI practices and diverse perspectives in technology development.

Chapters:

00:00 Personal Motivation

01:51 Career Journey

06:17 Early Experiences & Family

10:34 Certifi AI Overview

18:22 Entrepreneurship Lessons

23:40 Mentors & Influencers

27:22 Ethical AI

Originally recorded on June 4th, 2024, this episode marks an exciting milestone in Melissa’s journey with Certifi AI. Since then, she has successfully launched the alpha version of Certifi AI for select users, forged strategic partnerships with industry leaders, and is actively in the process of fundraising.

Connect with Melissa Hutchins

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hutchins Website: https://www.certifiai.com

Connect with Boaz Ashkenazy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy

X: boazashkenazy

Email: shift@simplyaugmented.ai