In this episode of AI Readiness, Andy Davis speaks with Laura Alexander, Head of Data Services at Hodge, about what it really takes to get an organisation ready for AI. From data governance and culture to regulation and imposter syndrome, they explore why readiness is more human than technical.

Laura shares insights on how Hodge is approaching its AI journey — including practical steps around Microsoft Fabric, data lineage, and building internal buy-in. They also dig into critical topics like model bias, image rights, and how to prioritise the right use cases (without falling into the classic transformation trap).

Whether you're leading data transformation or just trying to work out where to begin, this one’s for you.

Listen now for a grounded, no-jargon take on what AI readiness really means in 2025.

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In this episode of AI Readiness, Andy Davis is joined by James Garner, Head of AI & Data at Gleeds, to explore why so many AI rollouts underdeliver—and what to do about it.

James pulls no punches as he shares real-world lessons from organisations misfiring with tools like Microsoft Copilot. From wasted licences to cultural resistance, he explains why the problem isn’t the tech—it’s how we introduce it.

They discuss the critical role of mindset, literacy, and trust in driving adoption, and why most AI strategies fail before they start. You’ll hear why use cases aren’t the real starting point, and how simply asking “can AI do this for me?” can unlock powerful change.

💡 If your team has AI tools but no traction—this one’s for you.

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In this episode, Andy Davis chats with Ako Sabir, a seasoned data and transformation leader in the insurance sector, about what really holds organisations back from embedding AI at scale.

Ako unpacks why technical challenges are rarely the true blockers, and why structural complexity, poor early decisions, and cultural resistance often derail even the best-intentioned AI strategies. From avoiding "proof-of-concept purgatory" to building governance that enables rather than polices, this conversation is packed with real-world experience.

You’ll hear practical advice on how to balance value delivery with foundational maturity — and why successful AI isn’t about tools, but about mindset, trust, and timing.

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