AI Risk Reward

Alec Crawford
  • 4.8 (16)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

I am your host, Alec Crawford, Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. and this is AI Risk-Reward, a podcast about balancing the risk and reward of using AI personally, professionally, and as a large organization! We will discuss hot topics such as, will AI take my job or make it better? When I ask Chat-GPT work questions, is that even safe? From an ethical perspective, is it enough for big companies to anonymize private data before using it? (Probably not.) I am discussing these issues with AI experts to answer burning questions and stay ahead of the curve on AI. I’d also like to give a shoutout to our podcast producer and audio engineering team at Troutman Street Audio. You can check them out on LinkedIn.

  1. 2D AGO

    Inside Future Proof—Reinventing Wealth Management and AI with Matt Middleton

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com, interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec welcomes Matt Middleton, Founder and CEO of Future Proof, to discuss the intersection of AI, wealth management, and events. Matt shares insights on how Future Proof is reshaping industry conferences by integrating technology and fostering real-world connections, emphasizing their upcoming Miami Beach event as a hub for AI-first wealth professionals. He reflects on his unconventional career path, the importance of mentorship, and the evolution of community-building within finance and technology. The conversation covers ethical considerations of AI, regulatory changes, and the rapid transformation of financial advice and compliance, highlighting the need for secure, enterprise-grade AI platforms. Matt also offers practical advice for young professionals, encouraging them to become AI experts to capitalize on emerging opportunities in wealth management. Summary: Future Proof Events: Matt Middleton explains how Future Proof transforms wealth management conferences with technology and outdoor formats. AI in Finance: The discussion explores practical applications and ethical considerations of AI in wealth management and event operations. Regulatory Changes: Recent SEC guidance on AI and privacy is addressed, highlighting compliance challenges for financial advisors. Industry Consolidation: Medium-sized firms are likely to benefit most from AI adoption, while smaller firms risk falling behind. Career Advice: Young professionals are encouraged to specialize in AI to become indispensable in a rapidly evolving industry. Referenced in this episode: Companies/Organizations: Future ProofArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.ETF.comInformaBitwise Asset ManagementMoney2020Ritholtz Wealth ManagementSEC Movies: Gladiator Copyright © 2025 by Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.

    51 min

  2. FEB 10

    Deep Dive into AI Governance, Risk Management, and Finance Innovation with Professor Agostino Capponi

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com , interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec sits down with Professor Agostino Capponi, Director of the Center for Digital Finance and Technologies at Columbia University, to explore the frontiers of AI governance, risk management, and explainability in finance. Professor Capponi outlines the Center’s mission to bridge research, education, and industry in digital finance, including AI, blockchain, and digital payments. The discussion covers emerging frameworks for AI-driven portfolio optimization, model risk, and the importance of transparency and explainability in agentic AI systems. They also address practical challenges like data privacy, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, fairness, and the implications of delegating decision-making to AI agents within financial institutions. The episode concludes with insights on model concentration risk, convergence between AI and blockchain, and the evolving role of boards in AI governance. Summary: AI in Finance: Professor Capponi discusses how AI is reshaping portfolio management, risk assessment, and the integration of digital finance technologies. Explainability & Agentic AI: The conversation highlights agent-based frameworks that deliver transparency and rationales for AI-driven decisions in finance and prediction markets. Data Privacy & Governance: The episode examines the challenges of data lineage, privacy-preserving techniques, and regulatory implications for financial institutions using AI. Cybersecurity & Model Validation: Capponi offers perspectives on operational risk, preventing systemic threats, and the need for robust validation and benchmarking of non-deterministic AI models. Fairness, Regulation & Blockchain: The dialogue explores frameworks for fairness in AI outcomes, the regulatory focus on models versus use cases, and the convergence of AI with blockchain-based payments and governance. Referenced in this episode: Companies/Organizations: Columbia UniversityArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.Center for Digital Finance and TechnologiesPolymarketS&P 500BloombergThomson ReutersAmazonGoogleWalmart Copyright © 2025 by Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.

    59 min

  3. FEB 3

    Stablecoins, AI Agents, and FinTech Innovation: A Conversation with Nik Milanović

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com , interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec welcomes Nik Milanović, founder of This Week in FinTech, Stablecon, and General Partner at the FinTech Fund, for a candid conversation on the intersections of AI, fintech, and crypto. Nik shares his journey from aspiring lawyer and Stanford philosophy major to fintech leader, highlighting pivotal experiences at Google Pay and the value of community-driven insight in fast-moving industries. The discussion covers the rise of stablecoins, the importance of machine-readable payments for AI agents, and the ethical implications of rapid technological advancement. Nik emphasizes thoughtful adoption, regulatory caution, and the need to support those economically displaced by automation. The episode concludes with actionable advice for founders, investing insights, and a lighthearted lightning round on everything from Brooklyn tattoos to the impact of fintech newsletters. Summary: Career Evolution: Nik describes his path from law and philosophy into fintech, driven by the potential to create impactful technology outside politics. Stablecoins & FinTech: The conversation explores Stablecon’s mission and the growing relevance of stablecoins for financial services and mainstream adoption. AI & Payments Convergence: Nik highlights how programmable, machine-readable payments will be essential for future AI agents, offering new possibilities but requiring careful governance. Ethical & Regulatory Considerations: The importance of measured regulation and addressing economic displacement is discussed, with parallels drawn to previous tech disruptions. Founder & Investor Insights: Nik shares advice for early-stage founders, focusing on solving specific customer problems and the evolving role of community in fintech innovation. Referenced in this episode: Companies/Organizations: Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.This Week in FintechStableconThe Fintech FundGooglePetalCitiCoastal Community BankCirclePaxosRippleZerohash Books: Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor...

    38 min

  4. JAN 27

    AI Governance Deep Dive with Michael Hind, Distinguished Research Staff Member at IBM

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com , interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec welcomes back Michael Hind, Distinguished Research Staff Member at IBM. This episode is a special deep dive focused exclusively on the evolving field of AI governance. Michael defines AI governance from both enterprise and societal perspectives, highlighting the challenges of managing risk in rapidly evolving AI systems. He shares insights from his recent research, including the development of the AI Risk Atlas and model risk evaluation tools, and discusses the complexities of testing AI models and the importance of accurate benchmarking. The conversation covers the state of regulation, the intersection of insurance and AI risk, the role of transparency and explainability, and emerging technical solutions like entity tagging in LLMs. Alec and Michael conclude by emphasizing the need for industry-driven governance and enhanced transparency through tools such as Granite Guardian and Benchmark Cards. Summary: Defining AI Governance: Michael Hind explains the dual perspectives of AI governance—enterprise risk management and societal impact—and discusses the need for clear taxonomies.Taxonomies and Risk Evaluation: IBM’s AI Risk Atlas and model risk evaluation tools help organizations identify, test, and monitor relevant AI risks for specific use cases.Regulation and Industry Responsibility: With global regulation slowing, Michael argues for proactive enterprise governance, transparency, and industry benchmarks to fill the gap.Testing, Explainability, and Transparency: The episode explores the limits of model evaluation, the challenge of explainability, and the need for public transparency, including the Stanford Transparency Index.Insurance and Technical Advances: The dialogue addresses how insurance may eventually adapt to AI risk, and highlights new approaches like entity tagging and fault-tolerant generative computing. Companies/Organizations: IBMArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.NISTMITStanford UniversityNotre DameDrainpipe IOOpenAIGoogle Copyright © 2025 by Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.

    51 min

  5. JAN 20

    From Banker to Digital Innovator: Eric Cook, Founder and CEO of Cook Technology Solutions and Chief Mentor at The LinkedBanker, on Harnessing AI for the Future of Community Banks

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com , interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec sits down with Eric Cook, founder and CEO of Cook Technology Solutions, part of WSI since 2007 and founder and chief mentor at The LinkedBanker, to discuss digital transformation and AI adoption in the banking sector. Eric shares his personal journey from being an “accidental banker” to a leader in digital innovation for community banks, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and leveraging technology for strategic advantage. The conversation covers the evolving role of AI in banking, including practical use cases, the need for robust training, and the critical importance of human oversight in AI-driven decisions. Eric offers insights into helping banks overcome fear and resistance to AI by focusing on business objectives and aligning technology with organizational strategy. The episode concludes with a lightning round, highlighting Eric’s perspectives on industry trends, technology, and personal passions. Summary: Digital Transformation in Banking: Eric Cook shares his transition from traditional banking to digital consulting, underscoring the need for banks to embrace strategic online presence and personal branding.AI Adoption & Training: The discussion highlights the gap between AI usage and formal training in banks, stressing the importance of education, policies, and software guardrails.Risk Management & Ethics: Eric advocates for a “human in the loop” approach, ensuring all AI outputs are critically reviewed for compliance, security, and fairness.Future-Proofing with AI: Banks are encouraged to adopt diverse AI tools and workflows, moving beyond single-platform reliance to maximize innovation and efficiency.Practical Assessment: Eric outlines his company’s approach to AI assessments, focusing on business goals and overcoming the “failure of imagination” in AI strategy development. Companies/Organizations: Cook Technology SolutionsWSIThe LinkedBankerArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.International Franchise AssociationMichigan Bankers AssociationMarketing AI InstituteJP...

    45 min

  6. JAN 13

    Future of Digital Labor: How AI-Driven Automation Is Set to Disrupt the Global Labor Market with Jesse Anglen, CEO of Ruh.ai

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com, interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec sits down with Jesse Anglen, CEO of Ruh.ai, to discuss the rapid transformation of digital labor through AI agents and the profound impact on the modern workforce. Jesse shares his unique journey from the construction industry to leading AI companies, emphasizing how curiosity and self-driven learning fueled his success. The conversation delves into the rise of AI-powered automation, the potential for unprecedented labor disruption, and the ethical responsibilities business leaders face in this new era. Jesse also highlights practical advice for young professionals, stressing the importance of developing empathy, adaptability, and AI management skills as traditional roles evolve. The episode rounds out with a lively lightning round, touching on startup culture, open source innovation, and the ongoing need for lifelong learning in a fast-changing landscape. Summary: Career Evolution: Jesse Anglen’s path from construction to AI leadership showcases the value of adaptability and self-education in tech.AI-Powered Automation: The discussion highlights how Ruh.ai and similar platforms are transforming businesses by deploying digital labor agents.Ethical Concerns: Jesse addresses the risk of massive unemployment and urges proactive ethical considerations as AI adoption accelerates.Future-Proof Skills: Empathy, project management, and AI literacy are key competencies for thriving in an AI-driven economy.Continuous Learning: Lifelong learning and engagement with open source AI communities are essential for staying relevant and competitive. Companies/Organizations: Ruh.aiRapid InnovationArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.OpenAIAnthropicEthereum Books: The E-Myth by Michael E. GerberPrinciples by Ray Dalio Movies: The MatrixBack to the Future Copyright © 2025 by Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.

    38 min

  7. JAN 6

    How Do You Manage the Risk of Getting Run Over by Technology Change? Insights from Becky Reed, COO of BankSocial and Co-Founder & Board Chair of Pure IT

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com, interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec Crawford sits down with Becky Reed, Chief Operating Officer of BankSocial and co-founder and board chair of Pure IT Credit Union Service Organization, to explore the intersection of innovation, technology, and risk in the credit union sector. Becky shares her career journey from operations to CEO, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation and the adoption of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, blockchain, and stablecoins. She discusses how credit unions can leverage these advancements to remain relevant, warning of the significant risks of not adapting, including potential revenue loss and deposit outflows. The conversation covers best practices in consumer protection, regulatory compliance, and the convergence of AI and blockchain in finance. Becky also offers thoughtful advice for students entering the workforce and provides candid perspectives in a fun lightning round segment. Summary: Career Innovation: Becky Reed’s journey highlights the shift from traditional operations to technology-driven leadership in credit unions.Blockchain & Stablecoins: The episode details how decentralized finance and stablecoins can disrupt traditional banking models and why credit unions must adapt.Risk of Inaction: Becky stresses that the greatest risk is for credit unions to remain passive, risking lost revenue and deposits as technology evolves rapidly.Regulatory Compliance: She advocates for applying existing consumer protection and privacy regulations to new technologies, ensuring ethical and secure adoption.Humanities in the AI Era: For students and professionals, Becky advises focusing on human-centric skills that AI cannot replicate, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. Companies/Organizations: BankSocialPure IT Credit Union Service OrganizationArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.Lone Star Credit UnionArlington Federal Credit UnionCircleKatena LabsOpenAIAmazon (AWS)Robinhoodspan class="ql-ui"...

    29 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    AI and Drug Discovery: Javier Tordable, CEO and Founder of Pauling.AI

    In the AI Risk Reward podcast, our host, Alec Crawford (@alec06830), Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. aicrisk.com , interviews guests about balancing the risk and reward of Artificial Intelligence for you, your business, and society as a whole. Podcast production and sound engineering by Troutman Street Audio. You can find them on LinkedIn. In this episode, Alec speaks with Javier Tordable, CEO and Founder of Pauling.AI, about the transformative potential of AI in drug discovery. Javier shares his journey from mathematics and technology roles at Microsoft and Google to launching Pauling.AI, highlighting the importance of innovation and mentorship in shaping his career. He explains how Pauling.AI aims to automate the process of moving from scientific hypothesis to molecule testing, thereby accelerating and reducing the cost of bringing new medicines to market. The discussion covers the ethical considerations of AI in life sciences, the realistic risks of misuse, and the challenges posed by today’s advanced content generation capabilities. Javier also provides practical advice for pharma CEOs considering AI adoption and reflects on the evolving role of regulators in healthcare and technology. Summary: AI for Drug Discovery: Javier Tordable outlines how Pauling.AI leverages automation and language models to speed up the process of identifying and testing new therapeutics.Career and Mentorship: Javier’s background in mathematics, technology, and leadership at Google informs his approach to building impactful AI solutions in life sciences.Ethical Considerations: The episode addresses the dual-use nature of AI in science, noting both its potential for positive impact and the manageable risks of misuse.Industry Disruption: Javier advises traditional pharma leaders to partner with AI experts rather than attempt to independently build state-of-the-art capabilities.Regulatory Perspective: The conversation highlights the complexity regulators face and suggests global best practices, particularly with reference to the U.S. FDA and China’s accelerated clinical trial environment. Companies/Organizations: Pauling.AIArtificial Intelligence Risk, Inc.GoogleMicrosoftNintendoMeditechSchrodingerFuture HouseEdison ScientificOpenAIFDANetflixspan class="ql-ui"...

    30 min
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4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

I am your host, Alec Crawford, Founder and CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc. and this is AI Risk-Reward, a podcast about balancing the risk and reward of using AI personally, professionally, and as a large organization! We will discuss hot topics such as, will AI take my job or make it better? When I ask Chat-GPT work questions, is that even safe? From an ethical perspective, is it enough for big companies to anonymize private data before using it? (Probably not.) I am discussing these issues with AI experts to answer burning questions and stay ahead of the curve on AI. I’d also like to give a shoutout to our podcast producer and audio engineering team at Troutman Street Audio. You can check them out on LinkedIn.

Information

  • Creator
    Alec Crawford
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Alec Crawford
  • Show Website
    AI Risk Reward