AI isn’t just hype or headlines—it’s a tool. And like any tool, it’s only as useful as the person using it. In this episode, Michelle sits down with Emily Heavner, product manager at Aspect (and PhD in mathematics), to demystify artificial intelligence and its place in the modern workplace. Emily shares how AI works, clears up common misconceptions, and explains why data—not magic—is the true engine behind intelligent systems. If you’ve ever wondered how AI can support your work, or how to spot red flags in tools you're adopting, this one’s for you.You’ll Learn • Why AI depends entirely on good data • How AI compares to other automation tools • What AI can (and can’t) replace at work • How to evaluate AI tools with privacy and values in mind • Where AI shines in boosting productivity and decision-makingPerfect For Workplace leaders, team builders, data geeks, skeptics of AI hype, and anyone curious about how to use AI as a helpful, human-supporting tool.Keywords AI, artificial intelligence, workforce, data, machine learning, algorithms, productivity, misconceptions, applications, technologyTakeawaysAI helps parse large data sets into usable, decision-ready insightsAutomation doesn't always require AI; not all AI is automationQuality data is the foundation—bad data, bad resultsAI should be evaluated through privacy, compliance, and value alignmentNot everyone needs a full AI “tool shed”—just the right tools for the jobAI isn’t new—it’s been decades in the making and is here to stayA well-built AI system improves with feedback and updated dataTrust in AI increases when people understand how it actually worksSound Bites“AI can and will support actual work.”“It’s all about data.”“You don’t need a tool shed. Sometimes you just need a hammer.”“If it doesn’t align with your core values, don’t use it.”“AI is not a new concept.”Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily & AI 05:13 How Emily Got into Algorithm Development 11:30 Understanding What an Algorithm Actually Is 18:53 The Mechanics of Machine Learning 25:05 Common Misconceptions About AI and Automation 31:16 Data: The True Engine Behind AI 37:36 Evaluating AI Tools in the Workplace 44:25 Aligning Tools with Your Team's Values 50:12 Productivity, Trust, and Use Cases for AI 56:44 AI's Role at Aspect and the Future of WorkRelated links for this episode: · Emily Heavner – https://www.eheavner.com · Aspect – https://www.aspect.companyBe sure to support this podcast by subscribing and reviewing!Learn more about Aspect at - https://www.aspect.com/ Brought to you by Aspect and Alvaria https://www.aspect.com/ https://www.alvaria.com/ © 2025 Aspect and Alvaria

Ver todos los episodios