AI Ireland with Mark Kelly

Today's guest is Dr. Simon Wallace, Chief Medical Information Officer at Microsoft. In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, administrative burdens have long plagued clinicians, detracting valuable time from patient care. However, the advent of AI technology is poised to turn the tide. In this podcast, Simon tells us about how Microsoft's Dragon Copilot is at the forefront, offering a promising solution to reduce stress, enhance patient experiences and streamline workflows.Topics include:0:00 Microsoft's Dragon Copilot that AI automates clinical notes and reduces burnout2:39 How AI reduces clinicians’ admin burden, restoring focus and job satisfaction4:48 Their Copilot shows how AI improves efficiency, wellbeing and documentation quality7:42 How AI generates clinician-style summaries from transcripts securely in Azure10:31 AI integrates with EPRs securely, ensuring compliance and clinical safety12:53 How Voice-driven AI will streamline workflows, keeping clinicians in control16:02 AI’s real-world benefits boost clinician trust and technology adoption

Today's guest is Gerard Quinn, Vice President of Innovation and Informatics at ICON plc. With over 35 years of experience in clinical research services, ICON is at the forefront of leveraging artificial intelligence to revolutionise the clinical trial process. In this episode, Gerard shares invaluable insights into how AI is reshaping the landscape of clinical trials, emphasising the importance of trust, scalability and evidence of value.Topics include:0:00 From pilot purgatory to scalable, data-driven AI deployment6:53 Focusing on delivering measurable, evidence-based, and trusted AI value10:43 Ensuring leadership buy-in through transparent, stepwise AI development15:54 Why AI adoption requires cultural and process change, not just implementation18:33 How AI accelerates tasks, enhances value and improves patient outcomes22:32 Optimizing trial sites, investigators and contract processes efficiently with AI27:23 How AI evolved from novelty to expectation, requiring careful implementation31:07 Managing AI adoption costs requires defined users and evidence of value35:02 Implementing AI requires strict governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance

Today's guest is Ross Hunt, Founder and CEO at Outmin. While Artificial Intelligence is often associated with glamorous uses like predictive analytics and automated driving, it's in the realm of the mundane, routine tasks where AI can deliver significant value. This is the philosophy that's core to Outmin, a company dedicated to automating bookkeeping with AI.Topics include:0:00 Automating bookkeeping while building future AI infrastructure4:04 Focus on automating boring bookkeeping to improve data quality8:59 Automated bookkeeping by combining humans, measurement and data14:21 Investing personal funds required transparency and shared risk with partner15:41 Breakthrough came with hospitality focus and accounting partnerships18:31 Why fundraising is seen as means, not a success metric, in business20:16 How Sustained success comes from deep technology application, not hype22:40 Why talented juniors prototype quickly, but experienced engineers ensure scalability24:20 How AI literacy is best learned through daily, hands-on use28:24 Enterprise Ireland providing crucial early funding and strategic support31:31 How success requires indispensable, value-driven products in current market

Today's guest is Mark Kelly, SVP of Global Intelligent Power Technologies at Eaton. In this insightful conversation, Mark covers the surprising evolution of AI, its current utility and the implications of its widespread adoption across various sectors.Topics include:0:00 How ChatGPT’s accessibility drives massive AI adoption and risks5:14 How Eaton powers global industries by enabling safe, reliable, AI-driven electrification8:17 Embedding AI in products for predictive maintenance, optimisation and safety13:18 Using AI for real-time optimisation, supply chain efficiency and physics-informed safety16:00 AI as a digital assistant for research, summarising and structuring ideas18:28 Advice to AI users, tuners and creators to stay skilled, critical and adaptable21:48 As AI literacy is essential, the future lies in specialised & collaborative multi-agent systems25:58 Championing multidisciplinary collaboration as key to groundbreaking innovation

Today's guest is Kieran McCorry, National Technology Officer at Microsoft Ireland. In this podcast, Kevin shares insights into the transformative role AI is playing in contemporary work environments as AI continues to reshape business landscapes globally. From emerging trends to challenges and opportunities, Kieran delves into how AI is no longer just an option but a necessity for businesses looking to stay competitive.Topics include:0:00 AI skills are key career drivers as we tackle the workplace access gap5:23 How AI use skews toward leaders due to top-down deployment7:17 The need for strategic deployment as managers struggle to adopt AI 9:18 How targeted AI use boosts skills, equity and retention13:03 Workplace interruptions harm focus, with AI tools like Copilot helping manage tasks16:02 How AI is boosting efficiency, reshaping roles and promoting a hybrid workforce18:53 AI expands capabilities, accelerates careers and drives employee retention21:39 As Employees seek AI training, employers must enable practical adoption

Today’s guest is Jennifer Geraghty Ryan, Principal Product Manager at Microsoft. In the podcast, Jennifer delves into the rapidly evolving world of AI agents, from covering the significant recent advancements and taking a glimpse into the transformative potential AI holds for businesses across diverse sectors.Topics include:0:00 Working on Microsoft’s autonomous agents program and AI governance2:17 How Microsoft agents now support multi-agent collaboration and deep research3:56 How Research agents work autonomously and show transparent reasoning processes5:30 An insight into agents clarifying problems, using internal data and automating tasks8:13 Applying AI to enable rapid product testing, feedback and persona insights11:31 How agents can learn in real time from other agents12:58 AI agents provide diverse perspectives through role-playing simulations15:56 Effective AI use requires feedback, context, and iterative prompting18:00 How Teams Copilot automates meeting recaps and workflow documentation20:05 AI captures tacit knowledge and automates workflows effectively

Today's guest is Aisling Browne, CEO and Co-Founder at Glitch. Glitch are a pioneering company set on transforming the world of B2B marketing through unique insights and solutions. The company is built on a foundation of resilience, with strategic partnerships and innovative approaches spearheading its success. In this podcast, Aisling delves into their journey, their unique value proposition and how they are addressing the complex challenges faced by businesses today.Topics include:0:00 Her journey from rom politics to startups, partnerships and entrepreneurship3:51 How early startup lessons shaped a smart, resilient founder mindset6:59 Lessons from highs and lows such as resilience, foresight & adaptability9:13 Making B2B ads accessible through Glitch with agency-level support12:29 How Glitch bridges ads, insights and sales–marketing alignment15:04 Using data to reveal real customers, not assumptions16:55 Leveraging AI to massively boost productivity and efficiency

Today's guest is Deirdre Lyons, CEO at Examfly. With a staggering 50% failure rate in some professional exams, the need for an effective, enjoyable studying experience is more critical than ever. This is precisely the challenge Deirdre Lyons is tackling with her pioneering startup, Examfly. In this episode, Deirdre explores her journey, the impact of technology and the role of AI in shaping the future of education.Topics include:0:00 Her journey from law and tax professional to entrepreneur inspired by learning3:12 Transforming professional learning and business models with Examfly4:21 How Irish startup support from Enterprise Ireland helped validate and develop the idea5:43 Combining AI with Animation and interactive tools to enhance learning7:06 Enabling scalable, high-quality content and personalized learning journeys with AI9:01 Target customers such as large enterprises, especially Big Four firms, globally11:00 How they raised €2.1M with investor feedback shaping growth strategy13:24 Her advice to move fast, focus on core AI use cases and refine continuously

Today's guest is David Bermingham, Director of AI at Advancing Innovation in Manufacturing (AIM) Centre. The AIM Centre is dedicated to supporting Irish SMEs, particularly in the manufacturing sector, as they navigate the evolving landscape of AI. Their mission is to demystify AI, making it accessible and actionable for businesses of all sizes. Through clear communication and hands-on support, the AIM Centre helps companies move beyond buzzwords and focus on tangible use cases that drive efficiency and growth.Topics include:0:00 AIM Centre's goal to guide SMEs to practical, applied AI solutions3:10 How their Accelerator guides diverse SMEs from AI hype to practical use9:13 Why companies prioritise simple AI fixes for efficiency10:51 Streamlining workflows with AI, enabling growth through efficiency gains15:34 Simple AI demos unlock potential, but scaling remains challenging20:35 Post-accelerator, companies pursue new AI use cases22:27 Their National AI Studio offers immersive, hands-on industry demonstrations24:28 Sponsoring the AI Awards to showcase real manufacturing innovation and transformation26:15 Falling AI costs democratize access, boosting business confidence29:32 Getting involved with the AI accelerator which starts in October

Today's guest is Oisin Boydell, Chief Data Officer at Cortytics. One of the most pressing challenges within Artificial Intelligence remains regulation and compliance. As AI technology advances, businesses face the dual task of keeping pace with these changes while ensuring they remain compliant with regulations that are themselves in constant flux. In this podcast, Oisin sheds light on these challenges and the ways AI can aid compliance professionals.Topics include:0:00 His journey from From broad AI at Ceadar to compliance-focused AI at Corlytics1:56 How AI assists humans in managing complex, evolving regulations4:33 Ensuring ethical, trustworthy AI governance and compliance with ISO 420017:35 How AI assists compliance teams while humans retain final oversight10:51 AI's role in helping track and interpret rapidly changing regulations11:59 Helping businesses navigate and prove compliance with regulations12:47 How LLMs excel in interpreting nuanced, semi-structured legal language14:01 Why AI democratization lets non-experts use tools efficiently14:54 Why AI literacy is crucial to prevent a technology divide18:21 Book recommendations that explores technology’s societal impact19:36 While AI’s impact is unpredictable; regulation and literacy are crucial

Today's guest is Dr. Lollie Mancey, Anthropologist, Futurist and Programme Director at UCD Innovation Academy. A self-described cyber anthropologist and futurist, Lollie effortlessly blends social anthropology, technology and entrepreneurship. Her interdisciplinary approach to understanding the world provides valuable insights into the ongoing cognitive revolution and the dynamic interplay between humans and technology.Topics include:0:00 A Cyber anthropologist blending academia, innovation, social justice & entrepreneurship3:38 Her curious mind exploring AI’s deep societal, cognitive and justice impacts6:47 Balancing roles, leveraging LinkedIn & being passionate about impactful connections9:32 How years of storytelling, ritual study and preparation shape confident speaking12:20 Why she values tangible learning over digital distractions14:28 Why AI is overhyped with a hybrid human-AI future with unintended consequences18:40 How AI companions reflect human loneliness, judgment and complex social needs22:43 AI companionship can blur lines between personal data and humour25:32 AI mirrors humanity’s flaws and strengths, guiding progress27:26 AI empowers solo entrepreneurs, reshaping freedom and opportunity28:45 Promoting AI literacy to bridge generations and ease loneliness32:00 Excited for series two of Futureville exploring how Ireland shapes its future

Today’s guest is David Bowles, Managing Partner at The Yield Lab. In this enlightening conversation, David shares his journey and insights into the dynamic world of AgriFood Technology and venture capital. He delves into the foundational experiences that led him to his current role, the strategic decision-making involved in choosing AgriFood tech and the evolving role of AI in this sector.Topics include:0:00 Growing The Yield Lab into Europe's leading AgriFood tech VC1:16 His journey from Computer scientist turned consultant, joining ezetop during growth phase3:18 How VC blends variety and smart founders, which was his perfect fit4:35 Choosing AgriFood tech to merge Irish strengths and fight climate change7:18 Investing in AgriFood tech using AI, science to cut emissions and innovate faster10:29 How AI helps analyse deals, but summaries lack key facts16:53 As AI aids research, experts drive deeper innovation insights18:48 Why AI must add real value, not just hype, to succeed22:52 Why AI literacy is crucial but broader, ongoing education is needed26:54 How VC isn’t the only success path with the need to focus on real revenue32:42 Helping founders grow by embracing a risk and failure culture

Today's guest is Dympna O'Sullivan, Academic Lead, Digital Futures Research Hub at Technological University Dublin. In the podcast, Dympna shares her valuable insights into how AI technologies are reshaping the landscape for those living with age-related cognitive challenges, such as dementia. She also covers topics from ethical AI use to empowering individuals with dementia to live independently.Topics include: 0:00 Her journey building AI assistive tech co-designed with cognitive-impaired users2:17 How AI supports dementia care ethically, enabling independent living7:49 Their AI toolkit which supports dementia care with personalized reminders12:15 Routines empower dementia patients, boosting confidence and autonomy15:08 The role of music to evoke memories while AI empowers older adults17:41 Generative AI risks shallow thinking, but expertise improves outcomes20:42 Why a overreliance on AI can hinder deep learning and growth24:36 Advocating for AI literacy, empowering users and including citizen voices

Today's guest is  Rebecca Keenan, Global Head of Intelligent Automation at Expleo Group. In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, companies are constantly seeking ways to leverage artificial intelligence and automation to enhance productivity and solve complex problems. In today’s podcast, Rebecca shares her insights on the transformative power of AI and the importance of strategic implementation in organisation’s today.Topics include:0:00 Her journey in tech from growing an RPA team to now leading AI solutions2:46 Why many companies skip RPA before AI, missing easy wins4:49 How AI enhances service, automates checks and predicts maintenance efficiently9:30 Real-time AI decision-making advances in big firms, but small ones lag11:34 Tighter budgets are prompting a shift toward greater efficiency13:40 Starting AI as a capability builds readiness amid busy schedules14:56 Advice to leverage existing AI-enabled tools before adopting new tech16:47 Ensure strong governance and compliance before using sensitive data17:57 Using AI daily for meeting notes, summaries and process mapping20:49 Clear storytelling and hands-on involvement help people embrace AI

Today's guest is Andrew Parnell, Met Éireann Full Professor of Data Science for Weather and Climate at University College Dublin. In the episode, Andrew discusses how his career path took an unexpected yet impactful turn. Originally aspiring to become a banker, Andrew now works at the intersection of climate change, AI and weather forecasting. This transition reflects not only a personal journey of aligning work with purpose but also highlights the larger narrative of how AI is revolutionising weather forecasting and related fields.Topics include:0:00 His journey from maths to climate action; now curating collaborative research5:06 Driven by fascination with weather, urgency in climate extremes7:36 How AI has revolutionised weather forecasting, surpassing physics-based models9:53 AI matches physics in paths but lags in extreme forecasting11:03 AI connects climate data with human impact, enabling actionable insights13:29 Balancing accessible data with meaningful human health insights remains challenging15:26 How Climate change raises health, mental and energy efficiency concerns17:27 Using AI weather models more efficiently can reduce carbon footprint18:32 An insight into Met Éireann funding UCD's PhD degrees in AI weather forecasting