AI Today Podcast

Kathleen Walch speaks with Vinay Babu Tarala, Agile and AI Transformation Leader at AT&T, PMI Pearl City Hyderabad Chapter General Secretary, and author of AI Meets Agile. With passion and candor, Vinay shares how early AI project failures led him to PMI-CPMAI certification, transforming his approach to managing AI initiatives.He illustrates how CPMAI’s structured framework reduced software development cycle times from 2.5 months to 1.5 months by embedding AI across the SDLC—from user story creation to coding and testing. Vinay emphasizes that success comes not from chasing tools, but from solving real business problems with quality data and strong governance.You’ll gain insights on: Why AI projects fail without a structured methodology How CPMAI enables measurable outcomes and cycle-time reduction Why AI is probabilistic, iterative, and experimental—not deterministic “magic”How project managers must shift from delivery to discovery, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and a common language Practical steps for project managers to start using AI in daily workflowsVinay also tackles misconceptions about AI, the rise of agentic workflows, and why human creativity and critical thinking remain irreplaceable. Practical and inspiring, this episode is a must-listen for project managers, AI practitioners, and leaders ready to move beyond hype and harness AI as a transformative force in project management.

Kathleen Walch speaks with Johan Sporre, Engineering Manager at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group) and CPMAI-certified professional, about how AI is transforming translation and language services at scale. Johan explains how his team supports 230,000 coworkers across 64 markets, with 90% of translations now AI-driven, and how CPMAI ensures alignment, quality data, and measurable outcomes.An IKEA case study shows how redefining translation as “text generation” in IKEA’s voice, powered by a graph database enriched with metadata, created a scalable foundation across dozens of languages. Johan highlights the challenges of balancing linguistic nuance with algorithms, misconceptions about “out-of-the-box” LLMs, and why operationalization—not deployment—defines AI success.You’ll gain insights on:Why CPMAI’s structured phases prevent costly failuresHow IKEA scaled translation from 6 to 46 languages iterativelyWhy tone, grammar, and cultural context matter in AIHow sustainability and resource use shape AI’s futureHow project managers are evolving as orchestrators of AI-enabled workflowsPractical and rich with real-world lessons, this episode is invaluable for project managers, AI practitioners, and leaders navigating language, technology, and business transformation.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch speaks with Michael Joyce, Enterprise Service Delivery and AI Transformation Leader at Cisco, about what it really takes to move AI from experimentation to operational impact in enterprise project delivery. Drawing on his experience leading technical program management teams across multiple customers, Michael shares how Cisco is applying generative AI to accelerate service delivery, improve decision quality, and empower project managers. He also founded Cisco’s internal AI Innovator Hub for PMs and helped create an AI for PM playbook, giving teams a repeatable way to apply AI under delivery pressure. Michael explains why AI projects differ fundamentally from traditional software initiatives, and why treating AI like a new team member through proper onboarding, context engineering, and iterative coaching turns it into a powerful "co-pilot" rather than just another tool. He and Kathleen discuss common pitfalls for AI projects like “shiny AI features” that fail to deliver, and how the CPMAI framework helps teams ask the right questions early, using Business Understanding and the AI Go/No-Go checklist to avoid wasted effort. A standout story from the podcast is how a high-stakes hospital system cutover illustrates how organizing critical knowledge into AI-supported playbooks enabled faster responses, smoother transitions, and stronger stakeholder confidence. They also explore PMI’s M.O.R.E. vision, the importance of relentlessly reassessing AI initiatives as conditions change, and how project managers can balance speed with accountability to deliver trustworthy, responsible AI. You’ll hear insights on: How PMI-CPMAI establishes a common language between business and technical teams Why chasing “shiny” AI features without understanding why often fails  How treating AI like a teammate leads to stronger results How project leaders can balance speed with accountability in responsible AI How project managers are evolving into orchestrators of AI-enabled workflows Practical, grounded, and enterprise-focused, this episode offers valuable perspectives for project managers, technology leaders, and decision-makers working to turn AI ambition into dependable business results.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch speaks with CP Richardson who is co-founder of Agile in Color, an Agile Alliance Board Member, and is also PMI- CPMAI certified to discuss what it really takes to bring AI into day-to-day work with discipline, intention, and the right framework.CP draws on more than 15 years of experience across software development, operations, marketing, and AI, including early work with machine learning in fraud detection. He also shares lessons learned from experimenting with AI to help run a small wine import business and how earning his PMI-CPMAI certification gave him a shared language and a structured, repeatable approach to AI, replacing instinct-driven decisions with clearer business alignment.  That hands-on context provides some of the episode’s most practical and relatable insights.CP shares how he built an AI agent to help do prospecting for his wine import business. While the agent failed to deliver on the desired outcome, the lessons learned were valuable: building the right solution technically does not guarantee business success. Without CPMAI’s Phase One Business Understanding and the AI Go/No Go checklist, teams risk investing in solutions that work in theory but fail in practice.Kathleen and CP also discuss the importance of stakeholder engagement, the PMI M.O.R.E. vision of moving project managers beyond outputs to outcomes, and how combining agile principles with a data-centric methodology enables faster learning, better decisions, and more effective iteration.You'll hear insights on: Why Business Understanding is such a critical phase of any AI project How the AI Go/No Go checklist surfaces critical questions before starting your AI project What a real-world AI failure teaches about context, behavior, and business objectives Why agile practitioners need "chops" — and how AI raises the ceiling for those who have them How small businesses can punch above their weight with AI, if they're disciplined about it Practical, grounded, and anti-hype — for project managers, agile coaches, engineers stepping into AI leadership, or founders figuring out what AI can do for their business. Today's episode is brought to you by PMTraining.com. From live virtual classes to on-demand courses, PMTraining prepares students for popular PMI certifications, including the Project Management Professional or PMP. Behind the scenes, the PMTraining team is also actively applying AI across their organization, from learning development to customer support, helping them deliver training at scale. PMTraining.com is the world's largest provider of live classes for the Project Management Professional certification, running up to 35 classes every mont

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Chris Scordo, Founder and Managing Director of PMTraining—a PMI Authorized Training Partner—for a candid conversation about deploying AI responsibly in a training business while keeping the human element at the center.  As artificial intelligence reshapes how content is created and delivered, Chris explains how the project management training landscape is evolving. From live instruction and certification preparation to on-demand learning, he shares how AI is transforming the way professionals learn while highlighting why human instructors, subject matter experts, and instructional designers remain essential.  Chris discusses how AI tools can accelerate content development and support scalable learning. However, he emphasizes that real value still comes from experienced practitioners who provide context, interpretation, and practical insight. In project management—where judgment, leadership, and decision-making are critical—human guidance remains key to helping learners apply knowledge effectively.  You’ll hear insights on: How AI is reshaping project management training and content creation Why human instructors and SMEs remain critical in an AI-enabled learning environment How training providers are adapting to AI-driven learning models How AI-related skills and certifications are gaining importance What project professionals can do to stay relevant in an AI-augmented future This episode offers valuable perspectives for project managers, training leaders, and learning professionals navigating the evolving intersection of AI, certification programs, and professional development. Today's episode is brought to you by PMTraining.com. From live virtual classes to on-demand courses, PMTraining prepares students for popular PMI certifications, including the Project Management Professional or PMP. Behind the scenes, the PMTraining team is also actively applying AI across their organization, from learning development to customer support, helping them deliver training at scale. PMTraining.com is the world's largest provider of live classes for the Project Management Professional certification, running up to 35 classes every month for every schedule, with a free 30 PDU course included with your enrollment, so half of your continuing education requirement is already met once you are certified. They offer live and on-demand courses for all kinds of PMI certifications, with schedules and formats designed for working professionals. For AI Today listener discounts, visit PMTraining.com/aitoday.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Sumathi Arcot, Project Director for Lean Agile Transformation in AstraZeneca’s U.S. Oncology Business Unit, for a candid conversation on what it really takes to manage AI responsibly in one of the world’s most regulated industries. Sumathi shares how the CPMAI methodology fundamentally shifted her perspective on AI, from something experimental and exploratory to a product discipline with defined outcomes, built-in governance, and clear success criteria from day one. In a pharma environment shaped by strict compliance requirements, she explains how CPMAI doesn’t slow innovation—it enables it—by aligning seamlessly with privacy impact assessments, third‑party risk reviews, and regulatory expectations. Drawing on a real-world patient value impact analysis project in the rare diseases space, Sumathi highlights how CPMAI’s six phases—especially Phase I: Business Understanding and Phase II: Data Understanding—help teams focus on the right problem before model development begins. She also connects CPMAI to PMI’s M.O.R.E. vision, explaining how structured artifacts, KPIs, and go/no-go checkpoints help project managers move beyond delivery to value especially when navigating AI initiatives with diverse, risk-aware stakeholders. You’ll hear insights on: How CPMAI transforms AI experiments into governed, auditable products Why Business Understanding is critical in AI initiatives How pharma compliance aligns to CPMAI checkpoints How the PMI M.O.R.E. vision helps project managers communicate AI value What agentic AI and human‑in‑the‑loop leadership looks like in the years ahead Whether you’re a project manager, transformation leader, or AI practitioner, this episode offers practical lessons for leading AI initiatives where the stakes and the scrutiny are high.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch talks with Ivonne Mejia, Lead Project Portfolio Manager for the San Francisco Bay Region Network at California State University (CSU), to discuss how PMOs can drive responsible AI transformation in higher education. As multiple CSU campuses consolidate under one unified PMO, Ivonne shares how she's embedding CPMAI into portfolio intake, prioritization, and oversight, ensuring AI initiatives are strategically aligned and governed. She makes the case for how CPMAI Phase One: Business Understanding shifts the question from “How do we build this with AI?” to “Should we?” The conversation covers readiness assessment, outcome definition, ethics, and stakeholder alignment. Additionally, Ivonne connects her approach to PMI’s M.O.R.E. vision: managing perceptions, owning success, relentlessly reassessing, and expanding perspectives as data and policy evolve. Tune in to hear about: How CPMAI prevents costly missteps Why starting with the right business problem changes everything How iterative go/no-go decisions keep AI projects aligned and on trackWhat the future of AI-augmented project leadership looks like This episode delivers practical insight into leading AI initiatives that are aligned, governed, and built for measurable impact.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch is joined by Michael Hyzy, Vice President of AI Strategy and Product Development at CGI, to explore why so many AI initiatives struggle—and why methodology matters more than ever. Drawing on his experience leading enterprise AI initiatives in regulated industries, Michael explains why treating AI like traditional software often leads to failure, stalled pilots, and unmet expectations. He shares how CPMAI provides the structure needed to manage uncertainty, align stakeholders, and move AI efforts from experimentation to measurable business outcomes. This conversation dives into the realities of managing non-linear AI work, from data readiness and model risk to governance, ethics, and long-term operationalization. Michael also looks ahead to the rise of AI agents and what project leaders must do now to prepare for a future where humans and AI systems work side by side. Tune in to hear about: Why AI projects fail when traditional delivery methods are applied How CPMAI helps teams navigate data uncertainty and iterative learning How organizations move AI from pilots to production Why governance and risk management must be built into AI projects from the start What mindset shifts do project managers need when leading AI initiatives What the transition from AI tools to AI agents means for organizations Whether you’re a project manager, AI practitioner, or organizational leader, this episode offers practical insight into delivering AI responsibly, realistically, and at scale.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Dr. Katrenia Reed Hughes, educator, curriculum designer, and project leader, to explore how AI is transforming education—and what it means to prepare learners for project success in a rapidly changing world. As part of AI Today's PMI Global Summit Series, this conversation highlights how AI can be used not just as a tool, but as a pathway to equity, empowerment, and confidence—especially for underrepresented learners. Katrenia shares insights on curriculum development, early exposure to AI, and the mindsets needed to ensure no one gets left behind in the age of automation. Tune in to hear about: Why exposure to AI early builds not just skills, but belief How educators are integrating AI across curriculum design The role of psychological safety and representation in project learning What “future readiness” means for tomorrow’s project leaders How AI can both challenge and enhance traditional education models The importance of mentorship, agency, and human connection in AI-powered learning Whether you're in education, project management, or talent development, this episode offers a hopeful and practical vision for building more inclusive, AI-literate teams—starting in the classroom.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Lee Lambert, PMI Fellow, a founder of the PMP certification, and long-time project management thought leader. Recorded live at PMI Global Summit 2025, this conversation bridges the past, present, and future of the project management profession.Lee shares his candid thoughts on how AI is reshaping what it means to lead projects—and why the future belongs to those who pair smart tools with power skills like communication, leadership, and empathy.Tune in to hear about:Why mindset matters more than memorization in an AI-augmented worldHow project managers can embrace AI without losing their human edgeWhy power skills are more valuable than everWhat changes—and what doesn’t—as tools evolveLee’s advice for staying relevant in a fast-changing professionReflections on the PMP’s legacy and the future of PM educationWhether you're new to the field or decades into your career, this episode offers practical, energizing advice on how to grow with the profession as AI transforms the landscape.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Ashima Sharma, Founding Partner of Ayuka Consulting, to explore what it really takes to deliver AI that works—in practice, at scale, and with purpose. This conversation was recorded live at PMI Global Summit 2025 and highlights the often-overlooked foundations of successful AI adoption: clean, contextual data; empowered, cross-functional teams; and a human-centered mindset that sees AI as a partner, not a product. Tune in to hear about: Why most AI efforts fail without operationally ready data How project teams can bridge the gap between experimentation and delivery What true upskilling looks like for today’s AI-augmented workforce How to navigate value misalignment, scope creep, and early AI friction What makes for “good” AI adoption—and what questions we should be asking The importance of empathy, ethics, and inclusion in AI delivery work Whether you're a project leader, product owner, or transformation coach, this episode delivers grounded insight into building AI that supports both systems and the people who run them.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Chris Caldwell, CEO of Concentrix, to explore how AI is being operationalized across customer experience (CX) ecosystems—from listening and learning to acting and delivering at scale. This conversation dives into how trust, transparency, and intentional use of AI are helping Concentrix deliver highly personalized experiences for some of the world’s largest brands. Chris shares how their teams are moving beyond dashboards and metrics toward outcomes powered by real-time, AI-driven insight. Tune in to hear about: Why trust is foundational for AI adoption in customer interactions How natural language AI is transforming both listening and action What it takes to deliver true hyper-personalization at scale Why transparency, control, and choice matter in every AI use case Real-world examples of AI streamlining service, support, and retention How Concentrix balances experimentation with client outcomes Whether you're in customer experience, enterprise transformation, or scaling AI in a service environment, this episode delivers clear, grounded insight into what it really means to build AI that listens, learns, and acts—with the customer at the center. Concentrix Corporation (NASDAQ: CNXC), a sponsor of today’s podcast episode, is a Fortune 500® company, is the global technology and services leader that powers the world’s best brands, today and into the future. The company is solution-focused, tech-powered, intelligence-fueled to design, build, and run fully integrated, end-to-end solutions at speed and scale across the entire enterprise. Concentrix helps over 2,000 clients solve their toughest business challenges. With unique data and insights, deep industry expertise, and advanced technology solutions, it’s the intelligent transformation partner that powers a world that works, helping companies become refreshingly simple to work, interact, and transact with. Delivering outcomes unimagined across every major vertical in 70+ markets. Virtually everywhere. Visit concentrix.com to learn more.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Fred Laluyaux, CEO of Aera Technology, to discuss how enterprises are evolving their operating models through AI-powered decision intelligence.  Tune in to hear about: What “decision intelligence” really means—and why it matters How AI can move from experiments to operational transformation The rise of decision architects and control rooms inside the enterprise Why “learning by doing” beats “learning by reading” when adopting AI How change fatigue, value misalignment, and risk aversion affect AI initiatives What the future of knowledge work could look like with embedded intelligence Whether you’re leading digital transformation, deploying enterprise AI, or exploring new operating models, this conversation offers sharp insights into building organizations that can sense, decide, and act at scale.  Aera Technology, a sponsor of today’s podcast episode, is the leader in decision intelligence and creator of Aera, the first decision intelligence agent. Aera understands how your business works, makes real-time recommendations, takes actions, and learns from every decision. By empowering enterprises to optimize and automate decisions, Aera enables greater sustainability, intelligence, and efficiency. See this in action at AeraHUB NYC as market leaders share how they are scaling decision intelligence for a competitive edge in the age of AI.

In this episode of AI Today, recorded live at the Agile2025 event, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Jason Little, author of Lean Change Management and founder of Lean Change Inc., to explore how AI is reshaping how we lead change across teams and organizations. As part of our AI & Agile mini-series, this conversation unpacks how traditional change models are breaking down in the face of rapid AI adoption—and what agile leaders can do to respond. Jason shares lessons from real-world transformations, experiments with generative AI in coaching, and how prompt literacy, failure, and feedback loops are emerging as key skills in AI-augmented workplaces. Tune in to hear about: What AI reveals about the limits of traditional change frameworks Why “experiment bots” might be the new change agents How to build change literacy and prompt fluency on agile teams When it’s okay for AI initiatives to fail—and what to do next How curiosity, context, and coaching reshape transformation in the AI era Real stories of what works (and doesn’t) when AI enters team workflows Whether you’re leading change, navigating disruption, or just starting to explore AI in your organization, this episode offers grounded, honest, and adaptive perspectives from the front lines of transformation.

In this episode of AI Today, recorded live at the Agile2025 event, hosts Kathleen Walch and Avinash Dhanraj sit down with Anu Smalley, enterprise agile coach and organizational change leader, to explore how Agile teams can thoughtfully integrate AI into their workflows. As part of our AI & Agile mini-series, this conversation explores how values like trust, empathy, and psychological safety remain essential—even as AI tools enter the picture. Anu shares her front-line experiences coaching teams to experiment responsibly, lead with intent, and avoid blindly automating poor processes. Tune in to hear about: How Agile mindsets can guide teams adopting AI tools Why empathy and experimentation matter more than ever The dangers of automating without asking “why” How to build psychological safety in AI-assisted environments Why AI shouldn’t be feared—but also shouldn’t be treated as magic Real stories of Agile teams navigating AI-driven change Whether you're a scrum master, enterprise coach, team leader, or project manager exploring AI, this episode offers grounded insights on staying human-centered in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

In this episode of AI Today, recorded live at the Agile2025 event, hosts Kathleen Walch and Avinash Dhanraj sit down with author, entrepreneur, and organizational design expert Jurgen Appelo to explore how agility must evolve in the age of AI. As part of our AI & Agile mini-series, this conversation unpacks the challenges of outdated frameworks, the importance of experimentation, and what it takes to build organizations that are truly adaptable—when both humans and AI agents are part of the team. Tune in to hear about: Why agility isn’t just about rituals—but about responsiveness and results How AI is reshaping team dynamics, leadership models, and management roles The tension between structure and emergence in AI-augmented organizations Why “everyone is a manager now” in hybrid human-AI teams How to preserve play, creativity, and purpose—even with algorithmic assistance Whether you're a seasoned agile coach, project or program manager, transformation leader, or navigating the complexities of implementing AI, this conversation delivers wisdom, caution, and inspiration in equal measure.

In this special episode of AI Today, recorded live at Agile2025, hosts Kathleen Walch and Avinash Dhanraj sit down with Agile Manifesto co-author and Agile pioneer Jim Highsmith to explore the intersection of AI and agility in the enterprise. This episode kicks off the AI Today Agile & AI mini-series, focusing on how organizations can stay adaptive in an era of rapid technological change. Jim shares insights from decades of leadership at the forefront of agile, what it means to “manage both people and bots,” and why the next generation of enterprise agility needs to evolve beyond prescriptive frameworks. Tune in to hear about: The evolving meaning of “enterprise agility” in the age of AI Why “individuals and interactions over processes and tools” still holds true—with a twist The critical difference between adaptive and prescriptive agility How AI reshapes collaboration, measurement, and leadership responsibilities The role of storytelling and inspiration in successful transformation Whether you're a seasoned agile coach, project or program manager, transformation leader, or navigating the complexities of implementing AI, this conversation delivers wisdom, caution, and inspiration in equal measure.

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch, Director, AI Engagement and Community at PMI, continues the AI in Healthcare mini-series, produced in partnership by PMI and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Kathleen sits down with Dr. Lukasz Kowalcyzk, a practicing gastroenterologist and seasoned Healthtech advisor, to explore how AI can meaningfully support operational efficiency, clinical decision-making, and healthcare equity. Tune in to learn how AI is advancing healthcare through: Automating surgical scheduling by embedding clinical intelligence into workflows, helping schedulers deliver safer and more consistent care instructions Empowering under-resourced staff through AI-enabled decision support, boosting the performance of surgical schedulers without requiring high medical literacy Navigating AI deployment challenges—from lack of data access to user adoption—and designing around real-world constraints in community and rural care settings Building trust and clinical adoption by deeply understanding user workflows, embedding human-in-the-loop systems, and preserving physician autonomy in decision-making Moving beyond pilot purgatory by prioritizing early wins, cross-functional buy-in, and practical tools designed for low-data-maturity environments Dr. Kowalcyzk also reflects on lessons learned from building and selling AI-enabled platforms, his experience in the Mayo Clinic AI Accelerator, and the importance of designing for both people and processes—not just technology. Whether you're a healthcare leader, project manager, or curious observer, this episode offers practical, hopeful, and forward-looking insights on building AI-enabled healthcare systems with empathy and vision. To learn more about on AI in healthcare, including access through HIMSS membership, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TSpHDZ

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch, Director, AI Engagement and Community, PMI, continues the AI in Healthcare mini-series, produced in partnership by PMI and Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Today, Kathleen sits down with Dr. Reza Ryan Sadeghian, System Chief Medical Information Officer at University of Toledo Health. Dr. Sadeghian is also PMP-certified. Tune in to learn how AI is revolutionizing healthcare delivery through: Combat physician burnout with 45+ specialty-specific GPT applications that reduce documentation time while improving clinical quality and consistency Transform clinical workflows with patient-centered AI tools for pediatric care, infectious disease diagnosis, and medical education feedback Implement robust AI governance through layered oversight, human-in-the-loop design, and continuous validation with bias testing Build clinician trust by involving healthcare providers in shaping AI tools rather than imposing rigid pathways, respecting clinical judgment while augmenting decision-making Embed AI as infrastructure rather than standalone tools, treating AI initiatives with the same governance rigor as clinical interventions Dr. Sadeghian also discusses the shift from digitization to digital transformation and how organizations can responsibly deploy AI while maintaining patient-centered care. Whether you're a healthcare leader, project manager, or curious observer, this episode offers practical, hopeful, and forward-looking insights on building AI-enabled healthcare systems with empathy and vision. To learn more about on AI in healthcare, including access through HIMSS membership, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TSpHDZ

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch, Director, AI Engagement and Community, PMI, kicks off the AI in Healthcare mini-series, produced in partnership by PMI and Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). This three-part series explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the healthcare ecosystem— from frontline care to back-office operations. Today, Kathleen sits down with Rob Havasy, Senior Director of Informatics Strategy at HIMSS. Tune in to learn how AI is being used across the healthcare sector to: Alleviate workforce shortages through automation, ambient listening, and intelligent documentation tools Accelerate data analysis and discovery, surfacing patterns and insights in the 95% of healthcare data that typically goes unused Improve clinical decision-making with AI-powered tools for early detection (like sepsis) and retrospective analysis Enhance administrative efficiency, freeing up valuable time for nurses and physicians through smart supply chain systems and workflow optimization Support human-centered care by augmenting—not replacing—clinicians, and enabling empathetic, AI-enabled interactions Rob also discusses the regulatory challenges facing the industry, the importance of principled leadership, and how organizations can move from digitization to true digital reinvention. Whether you're a healthcare leader, project manager, or curious observer, this episode offers practical, hopeful, and forward-looking insights on building AI-enabled healthcare systems with empathy and vision. To learn more about on AI in healthcare, including access through HIMSS membership, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TSpHDZ

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch, Director, AI Engagement and Community, PMI, kicks off the AI in Healthcare mini-series, produced in partnership by PMI and Healthcare Information Systems and Society (HIMSS). This three-part series explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the healthcare ecosystem— from frontline care to back-office operations. Today, Kathleen sits down with Rob Havasy, Senior Director of Informatics Strategy at HIMSS. Tune in to learn how AI is being used across the healthcare sector to:Alleviate workforce shortages through automation, ambient listening, and intelligent documentation toolsAccelerate data analysis and discovery, surfacing patterns and insights in the 95% of healthcare data that typically goes unusedImprove clinical decision-making with AI-powered tools for early detection (like sepsis) and retrospective analysisEnhance administrative efficiency, freeing up valuable time for nurses and physicians through smart supply chain systems and workflow optimizationSupport human-centered care by augmenting—not replacing—clinicians, and enabling empathetic, AI-enabled interactionsRob also discusses the regulatory challenges facing the industry, the importance of principled leadership, and how organizations can move from digitization to true digital reinvention.Whether you're a healthcare leader, project manager, or curious observer, this episode offers practical, hopeful, and forward-looking insights on building AI-enabled healthcare systems with empathy and vision. To learn more about on AI in healthcare, including access through HIMSS membership, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TSpHDZ.Lead both the AI transformation of project management and the project management of AI transformations today with PMI's CPMAI Certification.Start delivering smarter AI projects today with the free introductory course: https://www.pmi.org/shop/us/p-/elearning/free-introduction-to-cognitive-project-management-in-ai-(cpmai)/el185

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is being used by non-profits and mission-driven organizations to amplify their social impact. From improving fundraising to optimizing resource distribution, AI is proving to be a powerful force for good.Discover how AI is helping organizations:Enhance donor engagement with personalized outreach and predictive giving modelsStreamline grant applications and identify ideal funding opportunitiesImprove campaign targeting and measure advocacy effectiveness in real timeMatch and manage volunteers based on skills, availability, and mission fitBreak language barriers and improve accessibility with AI-driven translation and content toolsEvaluate program effectiveness using data analytics and outcome trackingDetect financial anomalies and prevent fraud to maintain donor trustForecast community needs—like food insecurity or homelessness—and optimize resource allocationAI isn't just transforming business—it's empowering social good. This episode highlights how thoughtful AI use is helping organizations do more with less, and deliver real, measurable change.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is powering the evolution of smart cities. From traffic lights to energy grids, AI is helping urban areas become more efficient, responsive, and sustainable.Learn how AI is being used to:Manage smart buildings through automated lighting, heating, and coolingOptimize traffic flow with real-time data and AI-controlled signalsEnhance public transit systems through demand-based scheduling and fleet managementSupport public safety and emergency response via AI-powered surveillance and threat detectionStreamline waste collection using smart bins, route optimization, and predictive modelsImprove citizen engagement with chatbots, virtual assistants, and personalized city servicesManage energy and water use through smart grids, leak detection, and demand forecastingMonitor environmental conditions such as air quality, noise pollution, and urban heat zonesWhether you live in a major metro area or manage city infrastructure, this episode highlights how AI is quietly transforming the way cities operate—making urban life smarter, safer, and more sustainable.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is being applied to one of humanity’s greatest challenges: protecting the environment. From conservation and climate modeling to waste management and disaster response, AI is playing a growing role in sustainability efforts worldwide.Tune in to learn how AI is being used to:Monitor wildlife populations, migration patterns, and poaching risks using sensors, drones, and satellite imageryTrack deforestation, land use changes, and illegal activity in remote regionsPredict and manage air and water quality, including pollution hotspots and supply risksSupport climate change modeling and forecasting using historical and real-time dataOptimize renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, and balance energy gridsAssist in disaster response and recovery through damage assessment, route optimization, and coordinationImprove recycling and waste sorting with AI-powered robotics and computer visionReduce environmental risks by monitoring emissions, tailings dams, and compliance with ecological regulationsAI’s environmental impact isn’t just a challenge—it’s also an opportunity. This episode highlights how thoughtful AI applications can help drive a more sustainable and resilient planet.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer dig into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the mining industry. From underground safety to surface-level sustainability, AI is helping modernize one of the world’s oldest and most essential sectors.Learn how AI is being used to:Operate autonomous trucks, drills, and loaders in hazardous environmentsMonitor equipment health and perform predictive maintenance to reduce downtimeOptimize resource extraction and mineral processing in real timeImprove mine planning and resource estimation through advanced data analysisEnhance exploration efforts using geological data and machine learningDetect safety hazards such as gas leaks, rockfalls, and structural risksReduce energy usage and environmental impact with AI-driven sustainability toolsMonitor regulatory compliance and manage tailings dams to prevent disastersWhile mining may be out of sight for most of us, AI is bringing new visibility, precision, and responsibility to the way we extract the world’s resources.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of art and design. From generative art and music to personalized experiences and collaborative creativity, AI is empowering both professional artists and everyday creators alike.Tune in to learn how AI is being used to:Generate original visual art and music compositions using generative AI toolsAccelerate design workflows through automation and intelligent suggestionsEnable style transfer and remixing across artistic genres and mediaEnhance image, audio, and video editing with AI-driven efficiencyCurate exhibitions, identify themes, and organize creative collectionsPersonalize interactive art installations and user-specific experiencesSupport co-creation by acting as an intelligent creative partnerAI is no longer just a tool for technologists—it’s become a dynamic collaborator for the creative class, expanding what's possible in visual, auditory, and interactive media.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the field of architecture. From design and material selection to project management and sustainability, AI is enhancing how buildings are envisioned, planned, and delivered.Listen in as they discuss how AI is being used to:Support generative design, helping architects explore innovative and efficient building conceptsAutomate drafting and detailed design tasks to increase speed and accuracyOptimize material selection based on cost, durability, aesthetics, and sustainabilityImprove structural analysis and safety by modeling complex environmental variablesAssist in site planning with data-driven insights on zoning, topography, and climateEnhance cost estimation and budget forecasting using real-time and historical dataSupport project management with predictive scheduling, resource allocation, and delay preventionImprove energy efficiency and sustainability through simulation and smart design suggestionsEnhance Building Information Modeling (BIM) with AI-driven clash detection and cost controlWhether you’re an architect, planner, project manager, or tech innovator, this episode showcases how AI is revolutionizing the design and execution of modern architecture.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer dive into the many ways artificial intelligence is reshaping the restaurant and food service industry. From back-of-house operations to customer-facing innovations, AI is transforming how food is prepared, delivered, and experienced.Discover how AI is being used to:Automate food preparation with robotics for consistent quality and reduced labor costsOptimize restaurant menus based on sales data, customer feedback, and seasonal trendsEnable predictive maintenance of kitchen equipment to avoid downtime and cut repair costsImprove food safety and quality control through real-time monitoring and alertsForecast demand and manage inventory to reduce waste and prevent stockoutsStreamline ordering and payment via AI-powered kiosks, mobile apps, and chatbotsPersonalize the dining experience through tailored recommendations and dynamic pricingEnhance customer service with conversational AI for reservations, inquiries, and ordersOptimize food delivery routes for speed, efficiency, and lower fuel costsWhether you're a food industry professional or a tech-savvy diner, this episode showcases how AI is improving efficiency, reducing costs, and elevating customer experiences across the food landscape.

In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. From enhancing product development to optimizing inventory and boosting customer engagement, AI is driving innovation and operational efficiency across the value chain.Learn how AI is used to:Accelerate product innovation through trend and ingredient analysisImprove demand forecasting and inventory management with real-time insightsEnable dynamic pricing strategies responsive to market conditionsOptimize supply chains, reduce waste, and meet sustainability goalsEnhance quality control with computer vision and predictive analyticsDrive hyper-personalized marketing and sentiment analysisPower 24/7 customer service through AI chatbots and virtual assistantsImprove in-store retail strategies using retail analytics and shopper behavior insightsWhether you're in the industry or a consumer of its products, this episode sheds light on the impactful ways AI is shaping the future of CPG. Tune in to discover real-world use cases, emerging trends, and practical lessons that apply well beyond the grocery aisle.

AI is significantly transforming the travel industry by enhancing customer experiences, optimizing operations, and personalizing services. In this episode hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss various ways that AI is applied in travel and hospitality.AI Improving the Travel ExperienceWe are seeing AI be applied to improve the entire experience.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Travel and Hospitality [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is making significant advancements in the aerospace industry, enhancing everything from design and manufacturing to flight operations and safety. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch discuss various ways that AI is being used in the aerospace industry.AI-Assisted Flight & OperationsAI is at the core of developing autonomous aircraft, including drones and pilotless planes.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Aerospace [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In today’s increasingly unpredictable world, keeping people, property, and assets safe has become more complex than ever. Fortunately, AI is playing a growing role in strengthening physical security and safety measures. In this episode of AI Today, hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer explore how AI is being applied across the physical security landscape to enhance threat detection and improve response capabilities.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Physical Security & Safety [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In today’s hyper-connected digital landscape, the pace and sophistication of cyber threats are growing faster than ever. Hackers are using increasingly advanced tactics to infiltrate systems, steal sensitive data, and wreak havoc across organizations of all sizes. But there’s a powerful new ally on the front lines of defense: Artificial Intelligence.In this episode of AI Today, we explore how AI is reshaping cybersecurity.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Cybersecurity [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being applied in the AI in Automotive industry.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Automotive [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

Artificial intelligence is transforming everything from disease identification and diagnosis to drug discovery, clinical trial optimization, and even manufacturing efficiency. With access to massive amounts of biological, chemical, and patient data, pharma is perfectly positioned to harness the true power of AI. After all, data is the heart of AI. And this industry has plenty of it.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Pharma [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being applied in insurance. We explore how AI is reshaping the insurance industry in many ways. From smarter risk assessment and personalized underwriting to faster claims processing and fraud detection, AI is helping insurers operate more efficiently and deliver better customer experiences.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Insurance [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss various ways AI is being used in the supply chain.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in the Supply Chain [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is significantly transforming the Human Resources (HR) industry by streamlining processes, improving decision-making, and enhancing employee experiences. This episode of AI Today discusses how AI is being applied to Human Resources.Significant use of AI is happening around helping with hiring and recruitment. This is especially true for organizations that have constant jobs to fill such as in warehouses and logistics, or seasonal jobs.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Human Resources [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI has been game-changing for marketers, transforming how companies analyze data, engage with customers, write copy, create images and optimize campaigns. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being used in marketing.From the hyperpersonalization pattern of AI where you target each individual at scale to predictive analytics where you’re able to look at past or current data to help make better predictions, AI is empowering marketers to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency and effectiveness.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Marketing [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is driving significant advancements in the telecommunications industry, improving network management, customer service, and operational efficiency.  In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss various ways that AI is being applied in Telecommunications.With the help of AI telecommunication companies can optimize network performance by analyzing vast amounts of data in real time and then using that data to help predict and resolve network issues before they affect users.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Telecommunications [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

The real estate industry is embracing AI for enhancements across a wide range of applications. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being applied in real estate.AI is helping with data-driven decisions. It can quickly analyze a variety of different data points such as historical sales data, market trends, and specific features for each individual home to provide accurate pricing recommendations, ensuring properties are neither undervalued nor overpriced.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Real Estate [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is helping lawyers and the legal profession in a number of ways. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being applied in legal.AI is helping to assist with research and discovery. AI powered legal research platforms are able to use natural language processing to quickly analyze vast data stores of legal documents, case law, statutes, and regulations.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Legal [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI tools are helping to transform the media and entertainment industry. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss various ways that AI is being applied to media and entertainment.Automated systems are helping with brainstorming ideas, writing articles, summarizing information, and even drafting movie scripts. In the age of streaming, personalization has become a welcome and expected part of audience engagement.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Media and Entertainment [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

Public sector agencies, which include federal and national governments, provincial, state, and local government agencies, are increasingly making use of AI. AI in government is having an impact on everything from facial recognition and computer vision technology to AI enabled chatbots. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer share how AI is being adopted and AI applications governments.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI Applications in Government [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

From autonomous systems to advanced cybersecurity, AI is revolutionizing defense in ways we never imagined. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being applied in defense.Show Notes:CPMAI Training and certificationFree Intro to CPMAIAI Use Case Series: AI in Project Management [AI Today Podcast]AI Use Case Series: AI in Transportation [AI Today Podcast]AI Use Case series: AI in Manufacturing [AI Today Podcast]Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Defense [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

When it comes to AI, the topic of energy is quickly becoming a point of discussion. It’s no surprise that AI is energy hungry, whether we’re using that energy to train complicated AI models or responding to the huge amount of demand for generating results and inferences from those trained models. However, AI is also increasingly helping with the generation, transmission, and consumption of energy.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Energy [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss various ways that AI is being used in transportation.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Transportation [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is being used in every industry and manufacturing is no exception. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being used in manufacturing. We discuss how AI is improving the manufacturing process. AI-driven robots are used for automating repetitive tasks, such as assembly, welding, and material handling.Continue reading AI Use Case series: AI in Manufacturing [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

AI is revolutionizing the retail industry by enhancing customer experience, optimizing operations, and driving innovation. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss the impact of AI in retail.Show Notes:AI Today Podcast #126: Autonomous RetailAI Today Podcast: Hyperpersonalization at Diageo: Interview with Nick Owen, DiageoContinue reading AI Use Case Series: AI in Retail [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.

The experiences that customers are important. In this episode of AI Today hosts Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer discuss how AI is being used to enhance the customer experience.We discuss how brands are using AI to provide personalized product or service recommendations. No longer do people need to be provided general suggestions.Continue reading AI Use Case Series: AI and Customer Experience [AI Today Podcast] at Cognilytica.