In this episode of AI in Action, Dr. Sidney Shapiro welcomes Dr. Cathy Ringham, an experienced nurse, healthcare improvement consultant, and Assistant Professor at Thompson Rivers University. Dr. Ringham brings decades of experience in healthcare and nursing, offering unique insights into how AI is reshaping the industry. Together, they discuss the transformative potential of AI in healthcare, its influence on patient care, and the practical challenges of implementing AI-driven tools in nursing.

Key Topics Covered:

AI’s Influence on Nursing and Healthcare: Dr. Ringham shares her perspective on how AI is beginning to alter care delivery in healthcare, including predictive analytics and diagnostic advancements. Preparing Future Nurses: As an educator, Dr. Ringham discusses nurses' critical skills to work effectively with AI and how academic institutions can prepare students for this evolving landscape. Quality Improvement and Patient Safety: Dr. Ringham explores how AI can enhance healthcare quality and safety, focusing on its potential in neonatal and pediatric care. Ethical Considerations in AI Implementation: Addressing the ethical challenges, Dr. Ringham emphasizes the importance of responsible AI adoption, particularly in sensitive areas like patient care. Emerging AI Trends in Healthcare: Dr. Ringham provides insights into the future of AI in healthcare, highlighting developments in remote patient monitoring, natural language processing (NLP), and hospital management. Join us as we explore how AI transforms healthcare and nursing with Dr. Cathy Ringham, shedding light on the benefits, challenges, and future possibilities of AI integration in patient care.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

In this episode of AI in Action, host Dr. Sidney Shapiro welcomes Raphael Dias, a skilled Data Analyst currently working as a Decision Support Analyst at Health Sciences North. Raphael brings a wealth of experience in data analytics, business intelligence, and AI-driven decision-making across various sectors including healthcare, education, logistics, and consumer brands. Key Topics Discussed:

1. Raphael’s Journey into Data Analytics: Raphael shares how he got started in the world of data analytics and AI, and the key factors that sparked his interest in this dynamic field.
2. Data-Driven Decision Making in Healthcare: Learn how Raphael is using data to support decision-making at Health Sciences North, including a look at a project where data analytics played a crucial role in improving healthcare outcomes.
3. Applying AI Across Different Industries: Raphael discusses his experience working with AI and data analytics in sectors ranging from healthcare to logistics, and how these applications vary across industries.
4. Challenges in Implementing AI Solutions: Raphael highlights the common challenges he’s encountered, particularly around data quality, integration, and ensuring ethical AI practices, especially when handling sensitive healthcare data.
5. The Future of AI and Data Analytics: A forward-looking discussion on the emerging trends and technologies in AI and machine learning that Raphael is most excited about.
6. Advice for Aspiring Data Analysts: Raphael offers valuable advice for those entering the field of data analytics and AI, including essential tools and skills for getting started.

Guest Bio: Raphael Dias is a Data Analyst with over four years of experience across sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and consumer brands. Currently a Decision Support Analyst at Health Sciences North, Raphael is passionate about using data-driven insights to improve business operations and healthcare outcomes. His expertise includes building data pipelines, automating processes, and leveraging AI to derive actionable insights. Raphael holds a postgraduate diploma in Data Science and Business Analytics and is proficient in Python, SQL, and business intelligence tools.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

In this episode of AI in Action, host Dr. Sidney Shapiro dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence, art, and engineering with special guest Kris Holland, a polymath and the owner of Mafic Studios Inc. Kris is an "Engineering Grade Artist" who combines his technical expertise and creativity to produce visuals and animations for industries like aerospace and engineering. His unique background, spanning mechanical engineering and digital art, gives him a distinct perspective on how AI is transforming technical visualizations and immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Key Topics Discussed:

1. What It Means to Be an "Engineering Grade Artist": Kris explains how he combines technical rigor with creativity to create visual storytelling for technical industries, such as aerospace and engineering, and how AI has influenced his work.
2. AI’s Role in Technical Graphics and Animation: Discover how Kris uses AI to handle complex data and transform it into precise, visually engaging content for clients in highly technical fields.
3. Balancing Creativity and Technical Rigor: Learn how Kris strikes a balance between artistic expression and the need for precision when using AI tools in projects that demand both creativity and accuracy.
4. The Future of AI in Digital Art: As a futurist, Kris shares his thoughts on where AI is headed in the next 5-10 years and how it will continue to enhance creativity in digital art, animation, and beyond.
5. AI in Immersive Technologies: Explore Kris’s insights into how AI is shaping XR technologies, such as VR and AR, and how these innovations will impact industries in the future.
6. Advice for Aspiring Digital Artists and Engineers: For those just beginning to incorporate AI into their creative work, Kris offers practical advice and tools to help them get started and excel in their fields.
7. Ethics and Challenges in AI Art: Kris also addresses the ethical considerations surrounding AI in the arts, including the potential risks and challenges that come with these rapidly advancing technologies.

Guest Bio: Kris Holland is the founder and owner of Mafic Studios Inc., a company that specializes in technical graphics and animations for engineering, science, and aerospace clients. With over two decades of experience, Kris brings a unique blend of mechanical engineering, digital art, and space exploration expertise to his work, making him a leading voice in the fusion of AI and technical visualization.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

In this episode of AI in Action, host Dr. Sidney Shapiro dives into the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and education. Joined by Terry Greene, a Senior eLearning Designer at Trent University, this episode uncovers how AI is reshaping the educational landscape, from personalized learning to enhancing the human element in teaching. Terry Greene has an extensive background in instructional design and educational technology, with a Master’s degree in Educational/Instructional Technology and hands-on experience at institutions such as Fleming College and eCampusOntario. As someone at the forefront of eLearning design, Terry provides valuable insights on integrating AI into educational environments while preserving meaningful connections between educators and students.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. AI's Influence on Education: Terry discusses how AI is beginning to influence teaching and learning, particularly through personalized learning platforms and other AI-driven educational tools.
2. Enhancing the Learning Experience: Explore specific examples of AI in action at Trent University and how it enhances the student learning experience by providing more tailored and engaging educational opportunities.
3. Fostering Human Connection Through AI: Learn how AI can support the human element of education, making it easier for educators to build stronger relationships with students while optimizing learning outcomes.
4. Challenges and Ethical Considerations: Terry addresses the challenges educators and institutions face when integrating AI into classrooms, from technical limitations to ethical concerns such as data privacy and algorithmic bias.
5. The Future of AI in Education: A forward-looking discussion on emerging trends in AI and how the technology will continue to transform educational design and delivery over the next few years.
6. Advice for Educators and Designers: Terry shares practical advice for educators and instructional designers on how to begin incorporating AI into their work, highlighting resources and strategies for effective integration.

Guest Bio: Terry Greene is a Senior eLearning Designer at Trent University with a strong background in educational technology and instructional design. He has worked with institutions such as Fleming College and eCampusOntario, and is passionate about using technology to enhance the human element in education.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

Welcome to AI in Action! In this episode, host Dr. Sidney Shapiro sits down with Pragith Prakash, a seasoned data engineer and educator with over 12 years of experience in building and automating data products using AI, cloud technologies, and automation tools. Pragith shares insights from his extensive career working with top companies and startups, helping them leverage AI-driven automation to solve complex data challenges and enhance operational efficiency. Key Topics Discussed:

1. Pragith's Journey in Data Engineering: Learn how Pragith's passion for data science and engineering led him to work with cloud platforms like AWS and Google Cloud, and how he has helped companies innovate using generative AI and automation.
2. Challenges in Data Integration and Automation: Pragith discusses common challenges businesses face when integrating data and automating processes, offering solutions through AI and cloud-based technologies.
3. Generative AI in Action: Hear about Pragith’s experience using generative AI to improve operational efficiency, particularly in the context of data engineering and business intelligence.
4. Choosing the Right Tech Stack: Pragith breaks down how he selects the appropriate technology stack for scalable data solutions, considering factors like the complexity of the project and the client’s needs.
5. Educating the Next Generation: As an educator, Pragith shares the essential skills and knowledge areas future data engineers need, emphasizing the growing role of AI and cloud platforms in the industry.
6. The Future of AI and Data Engineering: Pragith highlights the trends and advancements in AI and data engineering that excite him most, and how these technologies will continue to evolve and shape industries in the coming years.

Guest Bio: Pragith Prakash is a data engineer and educator with over 12 years of experience in building and automating data products across various sectors. He has expertise in AWS, Google Cloud, and automation tools, and has worked with companies ranging from startups to large enterprises. As an instructor and consultant, Pragith is passionate about educating the next generation of data professionals and solving complex business challenges through AI and automation.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

In this episode of AI in Action, Dr. Sidney Shapiro is joined by Dr. Morgan M. Bryant, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Saint Joseph's University’s Haub School of Business. Dr. Bryant specializes in consumer market research, social media influences, and decision-making, with over 13 years of professional experience in strategic decision analysis. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and consumer behavior, delving into how AI is shaping consumer engagement, marketing analytics, and emerging trends in the digital space.

Key Topics Covered:

1. AI’s Influence on Consumer Behavior: Dr. Bryant shares her insights on how AI is transforming consumer decision-making processes in the digital world, particularly through personalization and predictive analytics.

2. Social Media and AI-Driven Marketing: Analyzing how social media platforms leverage AI to enhance user experiences and how marketers can better understand and predict consumer behavior through these technologies.

3. The Future of Social Commerce: How AI is facilitating consumer-to-consumer interactions in social commerce, and the innovations we can expect in this rapidly evolving space.

4. Ethical Considerations in AI: A discussion on the ethical challenges of AI, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and how businesses can ensure responsible use of AI in their marketing strategies.

5. Preparing Future Marketers for AI: As an educator, Dr. Bryant shares her perspective on the essential skills and knowledge that future marketers must develop to succeed in an AI-driven landscape.

6. Emerging AI Trends in Consumer Markets: Dr. Bryant highlights upcoming technologies and trends, such as virtual shopping assistants and AI-powered chatbots, which are set to revolutionize consumer engagement.

Quotable Moment: “AI is transforming not only how businesses operate but also how consumers make decisions, interact with brands, and navigate the digital world. This hyper-personalization fundamentally changes how consumers engage with brands, increasing their expectations for seamless, curated experiences.” – Dr. Morgan Bryant

About the Guest: Dr. Morgan M. Bryant is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Saint Joseph’s University with over 13 years of experience in consumer market research and strategic decision-making. Her research focuses on online buyer behavior, social media influences, and AI's role in consumer decision-making.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

AI in Action Podcast - Episode 7: Navigating AI in Business Development with Josey Frescura

Summary: In this episode of AI in Action, Dr. Sidney Shapiro is joined by Josey Frescura, Executive Officer at Sunwire Inc., with over 30 years of leadership experience in technology-driven industries. Josey brings a wealth of knowledge in change management, strategic planning, VoIP technology, and AI-driven business development. Together, they discuss how AI is transforming the telecommunications industry, driving business growth, and reshaping leadership strategies. Key Topics Covered:

1. Leading in Technology-Driven Industries: Josey discusses his approach to leadership in the fast-evolving technology sector and shares key principles for managing teams in a tech-heavy environment like Sunwire.

2. Change Management in the AI Era: Insights into successfully managing organizational change, particularly in the context of implementing AI and other technological advancements.

3. AI and Business Development: Exploring the impact of AI on business development and sales strategies, with a particular focus on industries that rely on technology, such as telecommunications and VoIP services.

4. The Future of VoIP with AI: A deep dive into how AI is transforming VoIP technology, enhancing customer service automation, and optimizing network performance.

5. Overcoming Resistance to AI: Josey shares real-world challenges he has faced when implementing AI solutions and offers practical advice on overcoming resistance to new technologies within organizations.

6. Leadership Advice for Aspiring Tech Leaders: Key skills and mindsets that future leaders need to develop to thrive in technology-driven fields, with a focus on AI and innovation.

Quotable Moment: “AI is not just a technological shift—it’s a strategic transformation that requires leaders to balance innovation with long-term vision.” – Josey Frescura

About the Guest: Josey Frescura is an accomplished leader with over three decades of experience in technology, strategic planning, and business development. As Executive Officer at Sunwire Inc., he has been at the forefront of driving AI and technological innovations in the telecommunications sector, particularly in VoIP and business communications.

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co

In Episode 6 of AI in Action, host Dr. Sidney Shapiro sits down with Steven Gal, a Master's student at Toronto Metropolitan University specializing in information systems. Steven’s research focuses on the deceptive uses of AI, particularly in how deepfakes and AI-generated content are being used to mislead individuals. Together, they explore how AI is weaponized in phishing attacks, political disinformation, and the ethical concerns surrounding these deceptive practices. Key Topics Covered:

1. Deepfakes and Social Media: How AI-generated videos convincingly mimic real people, including high-profile public figures, to spread false information on social media.

2. AI in Phishing Attacks: The growing use of deepfakes in phishing schemes, where cybercriminals clone voices and appearances to deceive individuals and businesses.

3. Political Manipulation with AI: The dangers of AI in political contexts, from fake video endorsements to election interference campaigns, and the legislation aimed at combating these risks.

4. Ethical and Regulatory Concerns: A discussion on the ethical questions surrounding AI-generated deception, and the efforts to regulate these technologies through state and global laws.

5. The Future of AI-Driven Deception: What lies ahead as AI technology advances and how we can combat the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation.

Guest: Steven Gal – Master’s student at Toronto Metropolitan University. His research focuses on the deceptive applications of AI, particularly in the areas of deepfakes and phishing, with a focus on understanding how AI-generated content is changing the digital landscape. Key Quotes from Steven Gal:

• "Deepfakes aren’t just a celebrity problem—they're being used to manipulate elections and spread misinformation in ways we’ve never seen before."
• "As AI technology advances, it’s becoming harder to detect scams, making it crucial for individuals and organizations to stay vigilant."

Tune in if you're interested in:

• The dark side of AI technology and its deceptive uses.
• The real-world impact of deepfakes and AI-generated scams.
• How AI is transforming phishing attacks and online disinformation.
• The role of government regulation in curbing AI misuse

Notes go here

Find out more at https://ai-in-action.pinecast.co