How to Safely and Strategically Adopt AI in Your Organization: Expert Insights from Lexi Reese, CEO of Lanai

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the modern workplace faster than any technology before it. But as companies rush to integrate AI, many leaders struggle with how to adopt it responsibly—balancing innovation, security, and ethics. In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Lexi Reese, Co-Founder and CEO of Lanai, an AI-native observability and security platform. Lexi shares practical insights on how organizations can safely manage, monitor, and scale AI adoption without compromising data integrity or trust.

Leading AI Adoption Responsibly

Lexi explains that the most successful companies treat AI not just as a set of tools, but as part of their workforce—a powerful digital team member that requires oversight, structure, and accountability. She emphasizes that AI must be “hired” into an organization with defined roles, clear expectations, and measurable outcomes. Just as leaders track employee performance, they must also monitor how AI performs, adapts, and impacts real-world results.

Visibility, Lexi notes, is essential for responsible AI use. Many organizations don’t know which departments are using AI, how data is being handled, or where security risks exist. Lanai’s technology helps leaders map and monitor AI usage across their companies—identifying risks, preventing data leaks, and ensuring compliance with privacy laws. This proactive approach transforms uncertainty into insight, allowing innovation to flourish safely.

Beyond technology, Lexi encourages leaders to consider the human element of AI integration. By prioritizing education, ethical standards, and collaboration between business and compliance teams, organizations can create a culture of trust and accountability. Responsible AI adoption isn’t about slowing progress—it’s about making innovation sustainable, secure, and beneficial for everyone.

About Lexi Reese

Lexi Reese is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lanai, an AI-native observability and security platform helping organizations safely adopt and manage AI. With a background that spans leadership roles at Google, Gusto, and public service, Lexi is known for her expertise in building ethical technology systems that empower teams and protect businesses.

About Lanai

Lanai is an AI observability and security platform designed to help organizations monitor, govern, and scale AI adoption responsibly. Built for visibility and control, Lanai enables companies to detect risks, enforce compliance, and ensure ethical AI use across all departments. Learn more at lanai.com.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Lexi Reese on LinkedIn
• Lanai Website

Key Episode Highlights

• Why organizations must treat AI like a workforce, not just a tool.
• The importance of visibility and observability in AI adoption.
• Common AI risks—from data exposure to compliance violations—and how to prevent them.
• How Lanai helps companies balance innovation with ethical and secure AI use.
• Actionable steps for leaders to define, measure, and improve AI’s role in their operations.

Conclusion

Lexi Reese’s insights remind us that AI’s potential is only as powerful as the systems and ethics guiding it. By combining strategic visibility, thoughtful oversight, and a culture of accountability, leaders can ensure AI strengthens—rather than compromises—their organizations. Responsible AI adoption isn’t just a tech initiative; it’s a leadership imperative that defines the future of work.

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