Explore every episode of the podcast The AI Social Club
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Building and scaling an impactful AI Lab - Audrey Libert - IAG (British Airways) | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:54:22 | |
How to build an AI Lab that delivers business impact? This is what this first episode is all about, with Audrey as an inspiring guest ! After starting her career in consulting, Audrey decided to dive into the fast-paced world of startups, eventually becoming VP of Transformation at Checkout.com. There, she played a pivotal role in its growth, helping it scale into one of Europe’s most impressive success stories. Less than 2 years ago, she took on the challenge of creating an AI Lab at IAG (the group behind British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and Aer Lingus) from scratch—and that's the story I wanted to unpack during this interview. This episode is a true masterclass and here are 3 of the many learnings she shared with us:
Thank you, Audrey, for this masterclass on AI Labs, your refreshing perspective, and your boundless energy. I’m confident it will inspire many people to explore this exciting path ! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #2 The Future of Data Leadership - Joseph Aoun - Chalhoub Group & Apgar | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:57:46 | |
Data leadership is at a turning point—are we ready for what’s next? Joseph Aoun is the Data & AI Solutions Director at Apgar, a global data management & AI group. He describes himself as a "Data-Powered Digital Business Transformation Leader"—and that says it all. With 15+ years of experience in data and digital, he spent the last 7 years at Chalhoub Group, where he played a key role in building and scaling one of the most advanced data and AI teams in the region. He is also one of the most passionate and insightful leaders I know in Dubai. In our conversation, we explored:
Thank you Joseph for your time and for sharing your perspective on these burning topics! Episode Breakdown: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:26 Career journey 00:04:11 The role of a CDO and organizational structure 00:14:09 The Impact of AI on data leadership 00:17:12 Building a data organization from Scratch 00:22:49 Scaling Data Initiatives in large Enterprises 00:26:17 Measuring AI & Data maturity 00:32:08 Ensuring business adoption of AI 00:41:28 Preparing organizations for the AI era 00:49:39 Attracting & retaining data talents 00:55:09 Final takeaways - You liked this episode? >>> Subscribe to the channel, share it around you, like it and give us stars ! It really helps :) You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #15 Reinventing creativity with AI - Onur Kece, The Refreshment Club | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:27:28 | |
Onur Kece, founder and Chief Creative Officer of The Refreshment Club, joins Margot Bletterie to share how AI is radically changing creative work and why it’s time to stop fearing it. With over 20 years in advertising, Onur breaks down how his agency uses generative AI not as a replacement, but as a creative amplifier. From fast-moving cultural campaigns to ethical dilemmas, this episode is a masterclass in AI-powered marketing for those who care about original, disruptive work. You’ll learn: • How The Refreshment Club uses AI across strategy, ideation, and execution • Why “topical advertising” helped generate a ROI for their in-house brand Heimstone • How to make generative AI work without losing creative originality • Why creative teams must shift from content factories to insight-driven storytelling • What skills marketers need to stay relevant in the AI era • Why the best ideas still come from humans—and how AI helps bring them to life Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Why creatives fear AI—and how to overcome it 06:30 AI-powered 360 marketing 10:40 The real power of AI in insights and ideation 14:10 AI ethics, originality, and consumer perception 19:00 Building reactive, culturally relevant campaigns 24:00 Team structure and evolving creative roles 29:00 Advice for creatives: how to start with GenAI 33:30 Why AI puts creativity back in the spotlight Learn more about Onur Kece: https://www.linkedin.com/in/onur-kece/ School of Future Fundamentals: https://sff.therefreshment.club/ The Refreshment Club: https://therefreshment.club/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI leaders: • Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ 💡 If you found this episode insightful, please like, share, and comment, it helps spread these conversations further! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #14 AI in Performance Marketing - Edouard Daou & Timothee Desormeaux - Acquisit | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:53:47 | |
How AI is transforming performance marketing in the Middle East – with Edouard Daou & Timothée Desormeaux (Acquisit) How is AI revolutionizing performance marketing in one of the fastest-growing digital regions in the world? In this episode of The AI Social Club, host Margot Bletterie sits down with Edouard Daou and Timothée Desormeaux, co-founders of Acquisit, to explore how brands across the Middle East are integrating AI and data-driven strategies to boost marketing efficiency, overcome data challenges, and reshape the future of creative and analytical teams. They share the real-world transformations happening in agencies and brands — from automation and smart dashboards to AI-assisted analytics — and what leaders must do today to stay ahead. ⸻ You’ll learn: 🔹 What makes performance marketing in the Middle East unique — and how data and education still limit AI adoption 🔹 How Acquisit uses AI to accelerate insights, automate analysis, and improve ROI for clients 🔹 Real use cases where AI delivers measurable marketing value 🔹 Why trust and change management are key to successful AI integration 🔹 How AI will transform marketing teams, roles, and client relationships 🔹 What “agent-to-agent” marketing means and why CMOs should prepare now ⸻ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:15 What is performance marketing and how AI enhances it 04:00 Data challenges and opportunities in the Middle East 07:30 Education, talent, and skills gaps in AI marketing 10:15 How clients in MENA are adopting AI tools 13:00 Practical AI use cases delivering real value 17:30 Automating analysis and empowering marketing teams 21:00 How AI changes agency-client collaboration 25:00 Beyond marketing: building an AI-ready organization 30:00 The impact of AI on marketing roles and future skills 36:00 Opportunities and challenges in AI adoption 43:00 The future of performance marketing with AI 50:00 Final advice for CMOs and marketing leaders ⸻ CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE Learn more about Acquisit: 👉 https://www.acquisit.io/ Connect with the guests on LinkedIn: 🔹 Edouard Daou – https://www.linkedin.com/in/edouard-daou/ 🔹 Timothée Desormeaux – https://www.linkedin.com/in/timoth%C3%A9e-desormeaux-4390862/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club for more conversations with AI & data leaders: 🌐 Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 💼 LinkedIn: Margot Bletterie – https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ The AI Social Club – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ ⸻ If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment — it helps us reach more people and spark the right conversations about AI, marketing, and innovation in business. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #8 Being a woman entrepreneur in the GCC - Chada El Islam Benmahcene - EntrogX Ventures | 22 May 2025 | 01:01:01 | |
Today, I’m joined once again by someone who left a strong mark in our first conversation: Chada. In that first episode, we talk about AI in sustainability and energy innovation. But this time, we go deeper. and we talk about two topics that matter to both of us: 🔹 What it really takes to build a tech startup in the UAE and the region 🔹 And the challenges - and power - of being a woman in tech and entrepreneurship here From the role of networks to the reality of fundraising, Chada shares unfiltered advice, sharp insights, and grounded experience. Whether you’re an entrepreneur in AI - or in any other field - or a woman wondering if now’s the time to make your move, this episode will give you a boost. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #7 AI as a creative partner - Gilles G. Vidal - CEO and Head of Creative - Azart & Co | 07 May 2025 | 01:01:02 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by Gilles G. Vidal, a visionary creative director with over 30 years of experience in music, television, and branded content. Together we discussed questions around:
He is passionated and he taught himself how to prompt, spent nights testing tools, and learned to speak the “language” of each AI model, always testing and learning new features. It is still a challenge, technology evolves really fast, but he will explain to us how he managed to stay up to date. Each and everything insight in this discussion is great to take ! You can take a look at the work he has done and that we have discussed during the podcast:
If you’re still on the fence about AI in creativity, this episode will shift your perspective. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #6 AI for energy, powered by AI startups - Chada El Islam Benmahcene - EntrogX Ventures | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:47:53 | |
Let's dive into AI, sustainability, and energy innovation with a powerhouse guest: Chada El Islam Benmahcene She’s a tech entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for innovation, leading the charge in AI-driven energy solutions. As the founder of a Venture Studio, she’s not just funding startups—she’s building them from scratch, turning advanced research into real businesses. In this discussion, we talk about: - How to collaborate with universities and researchers to create impactful startups - Why big corporations struggle to innovate—and how startups fill the gap - How AI is revolutionizing energy efficiency - What it will take for the Middle East to lead in AI-powered sustainability She’s been named one of the most influential women in Dubai, and trust me—she will grab your attention. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction & Chada's journey 03:17 What is a venture studio? 07:00 From university research to MVPs 15:33 Partnering with corporates for innovation 23:17 Why AI is key to energy efficiency 26:54 3 startups bridging AI & sustainability 37:18 Middle East innovation in green tech? 43:03 Conclusion & Chada's vision for the future You liked this episode? Share it around you and give us 5 stars on your favorite platform ! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #5 Inside Marketplaces - Christophe de Rassenfosse - Property Finder | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:52:33 | |
Inside Marketplaces: Data, Product & Real Value In this episode, I sit down with Christophe who is the former Chief Product Officer of PropertyFinder. He shared his fascinating journey from the early days of the internet to leading AI-driven product strategies in HR tech and real estate. We discussed: 🔹 The role of the Chief Product Officer, a position that not widely known in the GCC—when do we need it, and why? 🔹 How AI is transforming marketplaces 🔹 The challenges of trust, lead qualification, and data-driven decision-making in this field 🔹 The promising future of PropTech, smart cities, and predictive AI If you work in marketplaces, real estate, or HR tech, don't miss this episode ! This is exactly the kind of conversation I had in mind when launching this podcast: real-life use cases, with experts who make complex topics accessible. And Christophe does it brilliantly. You liked this episode? You would like to support us? Share it around you and give us 5 stars, it helps a lot ! - CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction & Christophe's journey 03:57 Understanding the role of a CPO 07:16 Data-Driven product strategy 08:01 Marketplace mechanics & Success metrics 16:04 Using Data to improve agent performance 28:49 Product innovation: Super Agent & Pricing models 34:26 Proptech trends & Smart City challenges 52:58 Conclusion & key takeaways - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #4 The greenfield challenge - Garry Ure - Zand | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:51:32 | |
How do you build a world-class data function… when there’s no data? No customers No legacy systems No historical data to rely on. That’s exactly the challenge Garry Ure faced when he joined Zand, before the online bank had even launched. Garry has 20 years of experience in data management in the banking sector and for the last five years, he led the data enablement strategy at Zand. He shaped everything from data governance to AI-driven personalization in a highly regulated environment. In this episode we dive into:
If you’re building (or rebuilding) a data function, you don’t want to miss this unique testimony! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 00:28 Garry's career and experience 08:38 How to start from a greenfield 17:30 Data enablement and data culture creation 30:50 Data management essentials 34:15 Banking use cases 40:50 Showing the value of data management 46:40 Vision, takeaways and conclusion - You liked this episode? Subscribe to this channel and give us 5 stars ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #3 Influencer Marketing, Powered by AI - Edoardo Ferrari | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:52:29 | |
How is AI rewriting the rules of influencer marketing? Edoardo Ferrari wears multiple hats: he’s the Director of Digital Analytics & AI at a leading beauty company and a fashion entrepreneur. His work is all about balancing creativity, instinct, and technology to drive innovation. In this episode, we explore:
Don’t miss Edoardo’s signature Italian accent! His unique experience—spanning startups and global brands—makes this a must-listen for anyone navigating AI in creative industries. EPISODE BREAKDOWN: 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Edoardo's career & experience 09:41 Data & AI in the beauty space, trend detection 19:45 AI adoption for creative talents, enpowering creators 28:40 Challenges in startups vs large companies 37:00 Impacting fast paced industries 43:50 Ethics & regulation for social media 47:00 Is Ai going to replace creative talents? 50:00 AI for influencers 51:30 Conclusion You liked this episode? Follow us and talk about us around you! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #13 Building an AI-Ready Workforce - Bart Pietruszka - CEO Refocus AI | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:24:41 | |
How can organizations truly refocus their AI journey—from training and adoption to real business impact? In this episode of The AI Social Club, host Margot Bletterie welcomes Bart Pietruszka, founder and CEO of Refocus AI, to discuss how companies can make AI adoption practical, human, and scalable. After years leading data and AI initiatives at HSBC, Bart decided to launch his own venture to help companies move beyond buzzwords and implement real AI use cases. He shares how Refocus.AI helps businesses through consulting, staff augmentation, and hands-on AI training that actually changes culture and mindset. You’ll learn: 🔹 Why most companies get AI adoption wrong—and how to fix it 🔹 How AI training for executives sparks company-wide transformation 🔹 The power of “learning by doing” when it comes to GenAI tools 🔹 How to manage fear, regulation, and the “job loss” narrative around AI 🔹 What a strong AI culture looks like (and why it starts at the top) 🔹 How to turn AI training into measurable ROI for your organization Whether you’re a business leader, HR executive, or AI enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights to help you upskill your teams and create lasting impact with AI. ⸻ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Why Bart left HSBC to found Refocus AI 02:45 The three pillars of Refocus.AI: consulting, staff augmentation, and training 05:10 Is the market ready for AI adoption? 06:40 The role of culture in successful AI transformation 08:20 Upskilling vs. job replacement: how to shift the mindset 10:00 Overcoming stigma and fear around AI 12:15 Building an AI-driven culture that lasts 14:00 Data security and responsible AI usage 15:40 Why every employee is trainable (but not at the same level) 18:00 The ROI of AI training and executive sponsorship 21:00 Key advice for skeptical leaders 23:30 Final takeaways ⸻ CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE Learn more about Bart and Refocus AI: https://refocus-ai.com/ Connect with Bart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-p22/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club for more conversations with AI & data leaders: 🌐 Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment! It helps us reach more people and spark meaningful conversations about AI and transformation. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #12 AI agents explained: the rise of hybrid workforces - Jean-Paul Sacy, Head of EMEA at Wand | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:48:11 | |
What are AI agents, and why are they reshaping the way businesses think about productivity and the future of work? In this episode of The AI Social Club, host Margot Bletterie sits down with Jean-Paul Sacy, regional leader at Wand, to demystify AI agents, cut through the buzzwords, and uncover what really matters when adopting AI in the enterprise world. You will learn: •What AI agents really are (beyond the hype) •The 3 key components of any AI agent: cognitive engine, context, and tools •Common misconceptions about generative AI and realistic productivity gains •How to identify the right business use cases (and avoid the “shiny AI” trap) •Why experimentation and failure are critical success factors in AI adoption •The concept of hybrid workforces and how companies are redefining leadership roles Whether you are a business leader, innovator, or AI enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights on moving from experimentation to real enterprise value. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Jean-Paul’s journey into AI and WandAI 03:20 What AI agents really are (explained simply) 06:30 Misconceptions and productivity impact 09:10 How to identify the right business use cases 12:45 Red flags and vendor lock-in risks 18:30 Hybrid workforces: humans + AI agents 23:40 Final advice: experiment, fail, and learn CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE: Learn more about Jean-Paul Sacy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpsacy/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders - Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theAIsocialclub - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ / the-ai-social-club If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment! It helps us reach more people and spark the right conversations on AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #11 Protecting children in the AI age - Maryam Ehsani - CEO & Founder, Child Safe ME | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:34:42 | |
How can we use AI to protect and empower children in a rapidly changing digital world? In this episode of The AI Social Club, host Margot Bletterie sits down with Maryam Ehsani, CEO and founder of Child Safe ME, ambassador of the AI Universal Council, and board member of ISPCAN (International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect). With over 15 years of expertise in child protection and safeguarding, Maryam shares her vision on how AI can be both a powerful tool for education and safety, while also posing real risks if left unchecked. This is a must-listen for parents, educators, policymakers, and tech leaders who want to understand how to balance innovation with responsibility when it comes to children and AI. You will learn: • How AI tools are transforming children’s learning experiences • The role of AI in preventing online abuse and safeguarding children • The biggest risks for kids growing up with AI, from deepfakes to cyberbullying • Why parents must rethink digital literacy and “unlearn” old habits • What schools, governments, and tech companies must do to protect the next generation • Concrete advice for families on nurturing open conversations around AI - CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Why Maryam brought AI into child protection 02:32 Positive opportunities of AI for children’s learning 05:50 AI tools for safeguarding and online safety 07:30 Key risks parents need to know about 12:45 Deepfakes, cyberbullying, and digital footprints 16:30 The role of schools in guiding children with AI 21:45 Governments and AI education from early age 23:58 Tech companies’ responsibility in child protection 26:50 From what age should children be introduced to AI? 32:00 What makes Maryam optimistic about the future 33:50 Final takeaways for parents, educators, and policymakers - CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE: Learn more about Maryam Ehsani: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-ehsani-0a149a6/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment! It helps us reach more people and spark the right conversations on AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
Find out more about The AI Social Club on our website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| [BONUS] Is data governance still a thing? Joseph Aoun x Margot Bletterie | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:19:58 | |
Is your AI strategy at risk because of outdated data governance? In this bonus episode of The AI Social Club, Joe Aoun breaks down why governance isn’t just a compliance checkbox—but the backbone of trustworthy, scalable AI. Joe Aoun, data strategy leader and governance advocate, joins Margot to explore the often misunderstood but mission-critical role of data governance in the era of generative AI. Why do so many companies still get it wrong? And how can you move from rigid control to agile enablement—without losing trust, quality, or speed? If you’re building AI responsibly, this is a must-listen. 🔹 You will learn:
CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 01:15 What is data governance vs data enablement? 03:04 Governance as creating safe spaces for innovation 05:30 Why overregulation kills productivity 07:20 AI governance: evolution or distraction? 09:45 Why most governance policies fail 11:36 Operationalizing governance: roles, KPIs & tools 13:22 Three scenarios of GenAI adoption in companies 16:07 Agile, iterative governance in action 17:45 How to get employees to follow the rules 18:50 Closing thoughts: why governance is leadership 🎧 Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
Find out more about The AI Social Club on our website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| [BONUS] Is your company ready for AI? Joseph Aoun x Margot Bletterie | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:19:09 | |
Is your company truly ready for AI? In this bonus episode of The AI Social Club, Margot Bletterie sits down with Joe Aout to explore what “AI readiness” really means and why so many businesses are jumping on the AI bandwagon without a strategy. They break down a practical framework to assess if your company is genuinely prepared to integrate artificial intelligence, not just technologically, but culturally and operationally. If you’re considering launching AI initiatives or scaling existing ones, this episode is packed with clarity and great advice. We discuss: 🔹 How to assess AI readiness across 4 pillars: strategy, data, technology, and governance 🔹 Why “AI for the sake of AI” fails and how to avoid it 🔹 Common pitfalls when moving from AI pilots to scalable solutions 🔹 Real examples of bad vs. effective AI implementation 🔹 Why strong use cases and executive alignment matter more than flashy tools 🔹 The right sequence from proof of concept to proof of value to scale Whether you’re an AI lead, data strategist, or business decision-maker, this is your playbook to make AI actually work in your company. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 01:15 What does it mean to be "ready" for AI? 03:00 The 4 pillar framework for AI readiness 07:45 When AI is the wrong tool for the job 10:51 Starting small with POC, POV and scale strategy 13:37 Should you rush into AI or slow down 15:41 How to sequence use cases for compounding value 18:12 From pilot phase to real AI impact 🎧 Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club 🔗 Podcast: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
Find out more about The AI Social Club on our website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| #10 The future of banking is AI-driven - Bart Pietruszka - ex-CDAO HSBC | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:24:51 | |
The Future of Banking Is AI-Driven - Insights from HSBC’s Former CDAO Bart Pietruszka Banking is one of the most advanced sectors in AI, but what’s really happening behind the scenes? In this episode of The AI Social Club, Margot Bletterie speaks with Bart Pietruszka, former Chief Data & Analytics Officer at HSBC, to unpack the real state of AI in financial services. From hyperpersonalized customer experiences to ROI-driven AI tools, Bart shares what’s working, what’s failing, and why traditional banks must rethink how they organize around AI, fast. Whether you’re in banking, data, or tech leadership, this episode is a must. You’ll learn:
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Real-world AI use cases in banking 06:45 Why AI projects fail and how to build for ROI 09:10 Balancing compliance with innovation 15:13 The rise of Chief AI Officers 21:00 What hyperpersonalized banking could look like - 🎧 Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders 🔗 Know more about Bart : https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-p22/ 🔗 Know more about The AI Social Club: https://www.thesocialclub.ai Listen to us on Youtube and on your favorite podcast platform: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment. It helps us reach more people! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| [BONUS] Should you fix your data before launching any AI project ? Joseph Aoun x Margot Bletterie | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:17:36 | |
In this 15-minute special, Margot Bletterie and Joseph Aoun dive into a hot debate: Do you really need clean data to get started with AI? From data audits and governance to generative AI’s tolerance for messy inputs, we unpack the reality behind the “garbage in, garbage out” rule and why waiting for perfect data might hold you back. If you’re a business leader, data strategist, or AI curious mind wondering how to start smart with imperfect data, this conversation is for you. 🔍 Key topics: – Data quality vs. speed of execution – How generative AI changes the game – Practical advice for launching AI projects today – Why metadata and context matter more than ever 👥 No interview - just an honest, high-level discussion between two data leaders. 💡 Start where you are. But make sure you know where your data stands. 🔗 Know more about The AI Social Club: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ 🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platforms: - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 -Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theAIsocialclub *Subscribe to this channel for weekly episodes on AI, education, and innovation* If you like this content, comment, like and share it around you, it helps us reach more people ! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #9 Teaching at University in the Age of GenAI - Dr Hind Salih - Professor and Entrepreneur | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:37:11 | |
How is GenAI transforming the university experience for students and educators? What should professors do to prepare the next generation of thinkers and leaders in the age of artificial intelligence? In this episode of The AI Social Club, I sit down with Dr Hind Salih, professor and AI expert, to explore the urgent shifts happening in university education due to the rise of generative AI (GenAI). We discuss: 🔹 How Gen Z students are using GenAI tools like ChatGPT 🔹 The risks of relying too much on AI in academic settings 🔹 Why critical thinking must be redefined in the AI era 🔹 The evolving role of professors in a tech-driven classroom 🔹 Real strategies to prepare university students for an AI-powered world Whether you’re a university professor, academic leader, student, or just curious about the future of education with AI, this episode is packed with insights you can act on today. - CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction & why GenAI in education matters 02:30 The shift from teaching to co-learning 09:10 What needs to change in university classrooms 15:00 The danger of shortcut learning with AI 24:00 Practical advice for professors using AI in class 30:00 Advices for students, professors and university leadership 🎓 Learn more about Dr Hind Salih: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-hind-salih-02a57932/ 🔗 Know more about The AI Social Club: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ 🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platforms: - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 -Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theAIsocialclub *Subscribe to this channel for weekly episodes on AI, education, and innovation* If you like this content, comment, like and share it around you, it helps us reach more people ! - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #19 AI in fashion, where AI serves and creativity leads - Alix Petit Kece | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:29:39 | |
Alix Petit, founder and creative director of Heimstone and now CEO of The Refreshment Club, joins Margot Bletterie to discuss how AI fits into a fashion brand built on craft, texture, and creative intent. The conversation explores how AI can support creativity, operations, and decision-making without replacing human taste, emotion, or savoir-faire. This episode looks at the real trade-offs fashion leaders face when adopting AI in a creative industry. What you’ll learn •How Alix uses AI alongside hand drawing, illustration, and textile work in her creative process •Why taste, emotion, and human judgment remain central to creative direction in fashion •How AI is used for campaigns, content creation, and product launches when traditional shoots are not possible •The role AI plays in supporting business decisions, forecasting, and workflow optimization •Why using AI without a clear brand vision can dilute identity and create noise •How transparency, consumer perception, and ethics shape decisions around AI use CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Why AI has no taste or emotion 03:00 AI as another creative tool in the toolbox 05:40 Using AI in early-stage design and print creation 07:10 The risk of AI creating noise without brand identity 09:00 Craft, materials, and why touch still matters 12:15 Education and awareness around AI risks 15:30 How AI changed internal workflows and roles 18:00 Using AI as a CEO and creative decision partner 21:40 Transparency, consumer reactions, and AI campaigns 25:20 Can AI understand beauty 29:00 Final thoughts on curiosity and experimentation CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE: Learn more about GUEST: https://www.instagram.com/alix.petit.kece/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club// the-ai-social-club If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment. It helps us reach more people and spark thoughtful conversations on AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #18 Rethinking recruitment in an AI-driven job market - Yatin Vij & Adil Gwiazdowski - Shortlistd.io | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:32:41 | |
In this episode, Yatin Vij and Adil Gwiazdowski, cofounders of shortlistd.io, join Margot Bletterie to unpack why hiring feels increasingly broken for both recruiters and job seekers. Drawing on their experience in recruitment and people management, they explain how AI is currently being used in hiring and where it genuinely helps versus where it creates new problems. The conversation focuses on real hiring pain points, candidate experience, and what a more fair and human recruitment process could look like. What you’ll learn • Why recruiters spend most of their time on admin work instead of speaking with candidates • How AI-driven applications and CVs have increased noise rather than reduced it • Why keyword-based screening often fails to identify the right candidates • How conversational approaches can make candidate evaluation more reliable • How AI can support recruiters without removing human judgment • Practical advice for job seekers navigating AI-driven hiring systems CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Why hiring feels broken today 05:20 Recruiter pain points and application overload 09:40 How AI applications and CVs increase noise 13:05 Why keyword screening fails 17:30 Rethinking screening through conversations 21:10 Candidate experience and fairness in hiring 26:05 Ethical questions around data and bias 31:40 Advice for job seekers using AI tools 35:40 Final thoughts on the future of recruitment CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE: Learn more about the guests: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yatin-vij/ linkedin.com/in/adilgwiazdowski/?skipRedirect=true Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders - Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club// the-ai-social-club If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment. It helps us reach more people and spark thoughtful conversations on AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #17 Bridging the AI generation gap - Tony Evans - Author of Generation AI | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:53:23 | |
Tony Evans spent over a decade at Meta working across technology, marketing, and leadership. He’s now the author of Generation AI and founder of his own AI company Onv.ai. He focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence, people, and organizational change. In this conversation, Tony and Margot discuss why AI reveals more about a company’s culture than its tech stack, what’s actually holding back adoption in large organizations, and how leaders can navigate the cultural and generational tensions AI is surfacing. From executive fear to junior overconfidence, this episode dives into the human realities shaping the AI era at work. You will learn:
CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Why Tony wrote Generation AI 03:00 How AI mirrors organizational strengths and flaws 06:00 What leaders get wrong about AI adoption 09:00 Should executives be trained in AI? 12:30 Why mindset shifts matter more than technical skills 16:00 Personal use of AI vs. organizational adoption 20:00 The hidden risks of banning AI tools 24:00 Gamification, prompting, and learning at all levels 28:00 The AI generation gap: juniors vs. executives 33:00 How to foster trust and reverse mentorship 38:00 What great leadership looks like in the AI era 44:00 Final takeaway CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE: Learn more about Tony Evans: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetonyevans/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI & data leaders Website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7d3XmTgIhXqim1r63a1yWH Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-social-club/id1793045703 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/ If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment. It helps us reach more people and spark thoughtful conversations on AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
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| #16 The new AI-driven marketing team - Mohit Lodha, Founder of Takumi AI | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:36:26 | |
What will marketing teams look like in a world where AI agents handle execution and humans focus only on strategy and creativity? In this episode, Margot Bletterie speaks with Mohit Lodha, founder of Takumi, an AI consulting company helping brands implement real, ROI-driven AI solutions. With 20 years of experience in marketing across agencies and global brands, Mohit shares a grounded and practical view of how AI is transforming the industry. If you’re a marketer, CMO, founder, or creative professional trying to make sense of AI’s impact on your work, this conversation will give you clarity, direction, and concrete next steps. What you will learn •Why AI is supercharging marketing instead of replacing marketers, and how it reshapes creativity and strategy •The future role of the CMO and how marketing teams will evolve into fluid structures blending intuition and machine precision •Which AI use cases already deliver value today: creative automation, personalization, and AI agents •Why most companies stay stuck in experimentation and how to move from pilot to scale •How to protect creativity while embracing AI, and why prompting becomes a key creative skill •Practical advice for junior and senior marketers to stay relevant in an AI-driven industry Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:12 When AI started changing marketing 02:06 What marketing will look like in 5 to 10 years 03:43 Are CMOs ready for AI? 06:18 Why AI adoption is still slow 08:40 The most valuable AI use cases today 15:13 How AI impacts creatives 22:32 How to scale AI inside organizations 32:24 Trends to watch and Mohit’s advice Learn more about Mohit Lodha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohitlodha/ Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI and data leaders:
If you found this episode valuable, like, share, and comment - it helps us reach more people and spark honest conversations about AI and society. - You liked this episode? Share it around you, like it on the podcasting platform, give us feedback ! You would like to be a sponsor of the AI Social Club? Contact us on LinkedIn We are on:
Find out more about The AI Social Club on our website: https://www.thesocialclub.ai/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||