Description

AI Readiness Podcast Episode 7: Building Strategic AI Policies with Carla De Schepper

Episode Summary

In this engaging episode of the AI Readiness Podcast, Andrew, Lucy, and Rich delve into the challenges of developing AI strategies and organizational alignment. They explore breaking news about Microsoft potentially overhauling the PC keyboard with a dedicated Copilot button, and Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff's controversial comparison of Copilot to Clippy.

This week's guest, Carla De Schepper, People and Culture Director at Animal Care Group, shares her insights on leading AI adoption in a global organization. From aligning senior leaders to embedding AI literacy into the culture, Carla provides a practical playbook for strategic success. Plus, Lucy and Andrew tackle listener questions about overcoming policy paralysis and keeping momentum alive on stalled AI projects.

Guest Profile

Carla De Schepper is the People and Culture Director at Animal Care Group, a global organization focused on innovation in the veterinary and animal health industries. Carla is a forward-thinking leader who has championed AI adoption by bringing clarity, purpose, and alignment to senior leadership teams.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Clarity Accelerates Adoption: Aligning senior leadership around a clear vision is critical for effective AI integration.
• Small Pilots, Big Impact: When top-down policies stall, teams can create localized AI guidelines and run small-scale pilots to demonstrate value.
• Build Literacy, Build Trust: Organizations must prioritize AI literacy to foster trust, mitigate fears, and drive adoption.
• Breaking News: Microsoft’s rumored Copilot button aims to integrate AI seamlessly into workflows, while Salesforce’s CEO criticizes its lack of transformational value.
• Mindset Shift: AI isn’t a one-and-done initiative—it’s a constantly evolving journey requiring ongoing learning and adaptability.

What is the significance of a dedicated Copilot button on the PC keyboard?

The rumored Copilot button aims to make AI tools more accessible, signaling Microsoft’s commitment to embedding AI into daily work. However, Andrew and Lucy remain skeptical about whether this will address core adoption and trust challenges.

How do you lead AI adoption in a large organization?

Carla De Schepper explains how she introduced AI literacy programs and created strategic alignment among senior leaders to foster confidence and clarity in their AI initiatives.

How can teams move forward when AI policies are unclear?

Lucy suggests starting small by creating team-specific AI guidelines and running pilot programs to build momentum, collect insights, and inform organizational policies.

What are common challenges in AI adoption, and how can they be addressed?

Andrew and Lucy highlight barriers like fear of the unknown, lack of clear direction, and fragmented leadership. Building literacy, fostering collaboration, and maintaining transparency are key to overcoming these obstacles.

How is AI changing the future of work?

A shift from waiting for "final versions" to embracing constant learning is critical. AI’s rapid evolution means that teams must adopt a growth mindset and learn to adapt in real-time.

Chapters and Time Stamps

[00:00] – Introduction: Welcome to Episode 7

Andrew and Lucy set the stage, discussing the podcast’s mission to help organizations tackle AI adoption challenges.

[02:15] – Guest Spotlight: Carla De Schepper on Leading AI...