Can AI Be Good for Business and Good for Humanity? | Richard Benjamins

Can AI Be Good for Business and Good for Humanity? | Richard Benjamins

Richard Benjamins's new book, The AI-Driven Company, explains how organizations can move beyond AI hype and experiments to create scalable, tangible economic value. Edward and Richard also discuss whether AI can create both business value and social value, who should lead AI inside a company, and how generative AI may affect human cognition. Richard has spent three decades in AI. He is an author, a leader in responsible AI, co-founder of an AI ethics observatory, and a builder of AI-for-good and cognitive-health initiatives. He led responsible AI at Telefónica, one of the world's largest telecommunications companies; co-founded OdiseIA, an observatory focused on AI's social and ethical impact; and helped create brAIngym, a project focused on cognitive health in the age of generative AI. What's one way AI can be used for good? Tell me in the comments. Asking Good Questions is hosted by Edward Roske. New episode every week this season. Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@Roske-AI LINKS Richard's new book, The AI-Driven Company (LID Publishing), is out July 16 in the UK and November 16 in the US. Buy it wherever you get your books, and support your local bookseller if you can. Publisher: https://lidpublishing.com Caribbean AI Summit (Oct 9-10, San Juan): https://CaribbeanSummit.AI Richard Benjamins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-benjamins-490554/ OdiseIA, the AI ethics observatory he co-founded: https://odiseia.org BOOKS & RESEARCH MENTIONED The AI-Driven Company, Richard Benjamins (LID Publishing, 2026) Gödel, Escher, Bach: An Eternal Golden Braid, Douglas Hofstadter (1979) Crossing the Chasm, Geoffrey Moore (1991) "Your Brain on ChatGPT," MIT Media Lab, Kosmyna et al. (2025) Flowminder Foundation, mobile-phone data for disaster and epidemic response: https://flowminder.org OdiseIA4Good, the social-good arm of OdiseIA: https://odiseia4good.org brAIngym, the OdiseIA project on keeping your mind sharp while AI does the reps for you CHAPTERS 0:00 Cold open: which jobs does your brain still do on its own? 3:13 How long have you actually been doing AI? (three decades in) 4:30 Responsible AI: does it slow you down, or speed you up? 7:36 Ethical AI vs. AI for good: aiming it at what really helps people 10:47 Whose job is the good-but-unprofitable AI: companies, government, or non-profits? 13:07 Aiming AI at disasters: preparedness and the Flowminder story 19:00 Telefonica: turning phone data into social good (and a business) 22:05 From "Chief Electrical Officer" to Chief AI Officer: does the new title actually deliver? 26:57 Who should own AI: the office of the CFO, or IT? 33:45 How does a company cross the chasm to actually being AI-driven? 37:06 The brain gym: what worried you enough to start it? 38:34 Your brain on ChatGPT: what the MIT study found 42:37 Keeping your brain sharp: darts, table tennis, and the APETECE method 46:07 When's the book out, and where to find Richard 48:03 The takeaway: the one job to keep for yourself This episode of Asking Good Questions is brought to you by Caprus.Ai [https://caprus.ai/]. Check how we empower the office of the CFO to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize their operations.

Zain Oke on Surviving a Corporate Crisis — and Selling to Chobani

In this episode of Asking Good Questions, host Edward Roske sits down with Zain Oke, whose career reads like a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and strategic reinvention. From nearly two decades at Deloitte to the boardroom of Daily Harvest, and now leading automotive operations at AAA Northern California, Zain’s journey is a rare blend of financial discipline, operational innovation, and fearless transformation. The conversation begins with breaking news — Chobani’s acquisition of Daily Harvest — and dives into what it feels like to sit in the room when your company is being bought. Zain shares the inside view of how culture, values, and governance shape such decisions, and how companies can recover trust and rebuild momentum after public crises. They then explore the evolving relationship between AI and corporate oversight: how boards and audit committees should evaluate AI initiatives, separate game-changers from “expensive toys,” and build risk frameworks that keep innovation safe and accountable. Zain reveals how AI isn’t just reducing costs — it’s unlocking new possibilities for startups and scaling teams by lowering barriers to insight and automation. The discussion moves to the automotive future: from electric-vehicle repair pilots to the psychological barriers around autonomous cars. Zain candidly reflects on the balance between safety, public trust, and innovation, reminding listeners that AI’s biggest challenge may be the human fear of losing control. Finally, she offers invaluable advice for finance professionals: how to stay relevant as automation reshapes the CFO’s office, why governance experience is the new gold standard for board readiness, and why learning to “flow through data” is the key skill of the decade. If you care about finance, AI, corporate transformation, or the next wave of board leadership, this conversation will change how you see the intersection of business and technology. 💬 Quotes & Highlights “It’s not what happened — it’s what happens next.” “AI can be a force multiplier, not just a cost reducer.” “Boards don’t need more retired executives; they need active operators.” “Fear of losing control is at the heart of resistance to AI.” “Auditing teaches you how every part of a business actually works.” “Good information in, good information out — that never changes.” “We can’t stop what’s been unleashed, but we can help people trust it.” 🕒 Chapter Breakdown Intro – From Big 4 to Boardrooms (00:00–01:00) Chobani × Daily Harvest Deal (01:00–03:00) Recovering from Crisis & Rebuilding Trust (03:00–05:00) AI in the Boardroom: Guardrails & Governance (05:00–08:00) The Wellness Economy & Big-Brand Acquisitions (08:00–10:00) AI’s Impact on Finance & Operations (10:00–13:30) Digital Transformation in Automotive Services (14:00–17:00) Career Pivot: From Auditor to Operator (20:00–23:00) Balancing Board vs Operator Roles (24:00–26:00) Future of Finance & Automation (27:00–30:00) How to Join a Board (and Stay Relevant) (31:00–34:00) Lightning Round + Final Thoughts (34:00–39:00) This episode of Asking Good Questions is brought to you by Caprus.Ai [https://caprus.ai/]. Check how we empower the office of the CFO to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize their operations.

From Oracle to AI Ops: Kellyn Gorman’s Playbook for Future-Proof Data Teams

In this episode, Kellyn Gorman joins us for a candid conversation about what AI really means for data leaders, DBAs, and finance teams. From uncovering hidden bias in system defaults to rethinking how humans and AI collaborate, Kellyn lays out a roadmap that is both pragmatic and inspiring. If you’ve ever wondered whether AI will replace your role—or reshape it into something more impactful—this discussion is for you. Listeners will walk away with fresh insight into AI governance, the future of database engineering, and the leadership mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. Top Quotes “AI won’t replace deep specialists—it will demand they evolve.” “Bias doesn’t only exist in people; it’s baked into system defaults.” “Your job isn’t going away—it’s shifting to higher-value decision making.” “If you’re not questioning how your data is being used, you’re already behind.” “AI is a tool. How you lead with it is what creates advantage—or chaos.” Chapters Intro & Kellyn’s Journey — From Oracle DBA to AI thought leader AI Myths vs Reality — What AI changes, what stays the same The Bias Factor — How hidden defaults distort outcomes The Future of Database Work — DBAs, DevOps, and machine collaboration AI Governance — What leaders must prioritize right now Practical Playbook — Steps teams can take to future-proof their data ops Closing Thoughts — Kellyn’s advice to leaders navigating disruption This episode of Asking Good Questions is brought to you by Caprus.Ai [https://caprus.ai/]. Check how we empower the office of the CFO to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize their operations.

The 4 P's of Finance Excellence: Mark Dendle Reveals His Secret Formula for Business Transformation

Summary In this engaging conversation, Mark Dendle and Edward Roske explore the evolving landscape of finance, emphasizing the integration of AI, the importance of teamwork, and the common challenges faced across various industries. Mark shares his leadership philosophy, highlighting the significance of diversity and inclusivity in building effective teams. They discuss the critical role of data analytics and technology in driving business decisions and the future of finance as it adapts to new tools and methodologies. Mark's journey through different sectors showcases the transferable skills in finance and the necessity for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing environment. Takeaways * AI is transforming finance, allowing for more efficient processes. * Teamwork and diversity are essential for effective leadership. * Financial skills are transferable across industries. * Data analytics is crucial for informed decision-making. * The role of CFO is evolving with technology integration. * Continuous learning is necessary for career advancement. * Understanding individual motivators is key to team success. * Servant leadership fosters a supportive work environment. * Project management is vital for successful transformations. * Embracing change is essential in the finance sector. titles * Navigating the Future of Finance with AI * The Power of Teamwork in Financial Leadership Sound Bites * "The power of technology has really helped." * "Vive la différence!" * "Have a great attitude, love learning." Chapters 00:00 The Excitement of AI Agents 05:47 The Philosophy of Teamwork 12:34 Common Financial Challenges Across Industries 22:02 The Four P's of Leadership 30:05 Cultural Influences and Personal Growth 35:42 Diversity of Thought and Paradoxical Thinking 41:01 The Evolution of Finance and AI Integration 49:32 The Future of Finance Careers and Skills This episode of Asking Good Questions is brought to you by Caprus.Ai [https://caprus.ai/]. Check how we empower the office of the CFO to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize their operations.

Why Sipei Bowman Says Accountants Have the ‘Highest Pain Tolerance’ in Tech

In this episode of "Asking Good Questions," host Edward Roske sits down with Sipei Bowman, a trailblazer in the realm of digital transformation within the finance sector. With over two decades of experience, Sipei has been at the forefront of revolutionizing financial systems at Jackson Square Aviation, overseeing assets exceeding $13 billion. Sipei recounts her journey from the early days of relying on Excel spreadsheets to spearheading the implementation of sophisticated ERP systems like Workday and Microsoft Business Central. She shares the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from traditional methods to embracing digital solutions that streamline operations and enhance decision-making processes. Listeners will gain insights into the strategic role of finance in today's fast-paced business environment, where real-time data and AI-driven analytics are becoming essential. Sipei discusses the importance of integrating technology with financial planning and analysis (FP&A) to become a strategic partner in business growth. This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals and business leaders eager to understand the impact of digital transformation on financial operations and the future of AI in finance. Tune in to explore how technology is reshaping the financial landscape and what it means for the future of financial leadership. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Digital Transformation in Finance Sipei Bowman's journey from Excel to ERP systems The role of AI in modern finance Challenges and successes in implementing digital solutions The strategic importance of FP&A in business growth Future trends in finance and technology Chapters: [00:00] Introduction Host Edward Roske introduces the topic and guest, Sipei Bowman. [02:15] Early Days of Finance Sipei shares her experiences starting with Excel and the initial challenges faced. [08:30] Embracing Digital Transformation Discussion on the transition to ERP systems and the impact on financial operations. [15:45] AI and Real-Time Analytics Insights into how AI is reshaping financial decision-making and operations. [22:00] Strategic Role of FP&A Exploring the evolving role of finance as a strategic business partner. [28:30] Future of Finance Predictions and trends for the future of finance and technology integration. [35:00] Conclusion Final thoughts and takeaways from Sipei Bowman. Subscribe to "Asking Good Questions" for more insights on business, technology, and financial leadership. This episode of Asking Good Questions is brought to you by Caprus.Ai [https://caprus.ai/]. Check how we empower the office of the CFO to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize their operations.