Aligned on AI Podcast - Conversations with Business Leaders in the Context of the AI Revolution

Aligned Minds AI

Aligned on AI is a practical podcast for business owners and leaders, especially (but not exclusively) for environmental and AEC consultancies and land development businesses who want AI to deliver real results - without the hype. Host Karl Jones, founder of Aligned Minds AI, chats with operators, founders and experts from across a wide breadth of business and industry about what’s changing at work and where AI can genuinely help. Expect relaxed “coffee chat” conversations packed with real-world takeaways on improving productivity, streamlining operations, strengthening decision-making and building repeatable workflows. This isn’t a tech show for coders. It’s for people running businesses who want to: save time on admin, reporting and marketingreduce errors and rework with better processes and quality checksuse AI safely with clear guardrails and data habitsimprove sales and delivery with smarter systemsmake better decisions using the data you already havelearn what to try next (and what to avoid) Topics you’ll hear regularly: AI Adoption, Practical AI, AI for SMEs, AI tools, workflow automation, workflow optimisation, productivity with AI, process improvement, knowledge management, customer service, content creation, finance and reporting, forecasting, risk and compliance, change management, and AI governance. Each episode focuses on real business problems - bottlenecks, time leakage, quality issues, capacity, hiring constraints, cost pressures - and explores how leaders can use AI and automation to improve how work flows end-to-end. We also cover the human side: trust, adoption, training, and how to keep AI people-first. Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for: short, practical AI tips you can copy into your day-to-day workepisode clips and summariestools, templates and safe prompt ideasupdates on upcoming guests and new episodes Aligned on AI - Real business conversations. Real AI outcomes.

Episodes

  1. 4D AGO

    Process Thinking and AI: Lessons from Industry - Steve Diloia

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, I’m joined by Steve Diloia, based near Buffalo in the United States, founder of AXIOM Coaching, to explore a critical but often overlooked truth about AI adoption: technology will not fix broken processes. We unpack what is really happening inside manufacturing and operational businesses today, from leadership challenges and inconsistent processes to the hidden cost of poor quality and lack of standardisation. Steve shares insights from decades of experience across engineering, quality management and consulting, including lessons from working with global supply chains and diverse organisational cultures. A central theme throughout the conversation is that AI adoption must follow process clarity, not precede it. We discuss why businesses rushing into AI risk amplifying inefficiencies, and how a disciplined approach to operational excellence creates the foundation for meaningful business transformation. We also explore where AI can genuinely help in the near term, particularly in removing administrative burden, improving data handling and enabling teams to focus on higher value work. Alongside this, we discuss the future of work, the evolving role of leadership, and why culture, accountability and clear metrics still matter more than any new tool. If you are a business leader thinking about AI adoption, or looking to improve operational performance in manufacturing, environmental or land development businesses, this conversation offers practical, grounded insights you can apply straight away. Topics covered: Operational excellence, AI adoption readiness, leadership, process standardisation, data and quality. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI in Business Operations 01:55 Steve's Background and Career Journey 04:33 Cultural Insights from Global Experience 07:20 Building and Identifying Organizational Culture 11:42 Common Operational Challenges Across Business Sizes 16:42 Understanding Quality in Business 20:38 The Importance of Process Standardization 23:22 Leadership Barriers to Operational Improvement 25:13 AI Adoption and Process Clarity 27:35 The Human Element in AI Implementation 30:30 Starting with Administrative Tasks 33:39 The Importance of Process and Validation 35:27 AI's Impact on Recruitment and Job Roles 41:53 Preparing Data for AI 45:10 Leadership's Role in AI Success Learn more at: https://www.alignedmindsai.com https://www.axiomcoaching.org Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/aligned-minds-ai/) for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI and if there’s a business leader you think I should invite onto the podcast, drop their name in the comments. #Manufacturing #OperationalExcellence #AIAdoption #BusinessTransformation #Leadership #FutureOfWork #ProcessImprovement #QualityManagement #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI #LeadershipStrategy #ExecutiveLeadership #OperationalExcellence #LeadershipDevelopment #HighPeformanceTeams #LeadershipCoach

    53 min
  2. APR 10

    Human AI Teams: The Hidden Key to Business Performance - Dr. Jon Finn

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, I speak with Dr. Jon Finn, founder of Tougher Minds, about one of the most overlooked factors in AI adoption: human performance. While many businesses focus on tools, platforms and automation, Jon brings a different perspective. Drawing on his background in performance psychology and behaviour change, he explains why AI adoption often fails not because of technology, but because of how people think, work and manage their cognitive energy. One idea that really stood out was the distinction between ‘ice cube tasks’ and ‘ice sculpture tasks’. It reframes how we think about work in the AI era. AI is rapidly taking over low cognitive tasks, but the real value now lies in high quality thinking, creativity and decision making. The challenge is that most teams are not structured to enable this shift. This conversation explores how businesses can move from legacy ways of working to building elite human AI teams. We discuss brain states, productivity traps, why AI can feel overwhelming, and what leaders should actually do to drive meaningful business transformation. Something that struck me is how quickly the gap is widening between organisations that are embracing this shift and those that are not. This is not just about efficiency. It is about competitiveness, workforce capability and the future of work itself. If you are a business leader, this episode will help you rethink how AI adoption should really be approached in practice. Topics covered: Human AI performance psychology, AI adoption challenges, brain states and productivity, elite human AI teams, business transformation strategies Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI and Human Performance 01:27 Dr. John Finn's Journey and AI Focus 07:03 The Evolution of Human Performance Psychology 13:10 Common AI Adoption Mistakes 15:31 Ice Cube vs. Ice Sculpture Tasks 23:00 Understanding Brain States and Decision Quality 27:32 Team Types: Legacy, AI-Enabled, and Elite Human AI Teams 27:43 Rethinking Expertise in the Age of AI 29:51 The Evolution of Teams: From Legacy to AI-Enabled 32:44 Building Elite Human-AI Teams 33:54 The Role of Adaptive Experts 36:38 The Disruption of Traditional Professions 41:05 Humans vs. AI: Who's Holding Back Progress? 43:08 The Future of Work and AI Integration Learn more at: https://www.alignedmindsai.com https://www.tougherminds.co.uk/ Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/aligned-minds-ai/) for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI and if there’s a business leader you think I should invite onto the podcast, drop their name in the comments. #AIAdoption #FutureOfWork #BusinessTransformation #Leadership #PerformancePsychology #AIinBusiness #Productivity #ChangeManagement #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI

    52 min
  3. APR 10

    Asbestos to AI: Scaling Expertise Beyond Time - Chip D'Angelo

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, I speak with Chip D’Angelo, a highly experienced environmental remediation specialist based in Princeton, New Jersey, US, and founder of WND Consultants. With over 45 years of experience across environmental risk, brownfield development, and complex project recovery, Chip shares practical insights from working on high stakes projects including The White House, The Pentagon, The World Trade Centers, hazardous waste sites, major real estate portfolios, and other large-scale remediation challenges. Something that struck me during this conversation was the recurring theme of translating technical complexity into commercial decisions. Chip’s approach has always centred on quantifying risk so that business leaders can act decisively. We explore how environmental consulting businesses scale expertise, the challenges of training the next generation, and why many organisations hit a time fee ceiling as their most experienced people become bottlenecks. One idea that really stood out was the growing knowledge gap as experienced professionals retire, and how this creates both a risk and an opportunity for AI adoption. We also discuss where AI can genuinely support business transformation, including data analysis, reporting, knowledge capture, and improving operational efficiency without compromising quality. If you’re involved in environmental consulting, land development, or any expertise driven business, this episode offers practical lessons on AI adoption, workforce development, and the future of work. Topics covered: Environmental risk, remediation strategy, AI in consulting, knowledge transfer, business scaling. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Chip D'Angelo's Journey 01:24 The Impact of Environmental Risks on Real Estate 03:05 Innovative Solutions in Asbestos Management 08:56 Scaling the Business: Training and Recruitment 15:38 Expanding Technology and Global Reach 23:19 The Role of Insurance in Environmental Projects 25:28 Navigating Expertise Bottlenecks in Consulting 27:55 The Challenge of Transferring Experience 33:15 The Role of Mentorship in Skill Development 36:13 AI's Impact on Data Management and Analysis 42:25 Leveraging AI for Knowledge Capture and Research 46:01 The Future of AI in Environmental Expertise Learn more at: https://www.alignedmindsai.com https://www.wndconsults.com Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/aligned-minds-ai/) for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI. #EnvironmentalConsulting #AIAdoption #BusinessTransformation #FutureOfWork #Asbestos #Remediation #LandDevelopment #EnvironmentalRisk #Consulting #DigitalTransformation #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI

    49 min
  4. APR 10

    Lean to AI: Practical Change Management Lessons - Tom Mentink

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, Karl Jones speaks with Tom Mentink, an operational excellence consultant based in the Netherlands, about why so many technology and AI initiatives struggle to deliver real results. Something that stood out to me in this conversation is how rarely organisations fail because of the technology itself. More often, they fail because people were not brought along in the change. That shift in thinking is critical for any business looking at AI adoption, business transformation, or the future of work. We explore how frameworks like ADKAR provide a practical structure for managing change, but also where they fall short in real-world environments. Tom introduces his ‘Puzzle Pieces for Change’ model, offering a simple but powerful way to ensure organisations are addressing training, systems, understanding, and leadership together. This conversation made me rethink how businesses approach skills development and workforce readiness. It is not about introducing tools. It is about changing behaviours, habits, and ways of working over time. We also discuss how leaders can introduce AI without overwhelming teams, why breaking change into workflows is essential, and how operational excellence principles from Lean still apply in a digital world. If you are thinking about AI adoption in your business, this episode provides a grounded, practical perspective on what actually makes change stick. Topics covered: Practical change management, ADKAR, operational excellence, AI adoption challenges and workforce behaviour change. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Operational Excellence 02:54 Understanding Lean Principles 05:42 Success and Failure in Improvement Initiatives 08:01 The Challenges of Change Management 10:41 The ADKAR Model Explained 23:28 Navigating Change in Organizations 26:07 Navigating Change Management in Organizations 27:38 Implementing New Tools and AI in Business 34:02 Understanding Workflows for Effective Change 36:53 The Role of AI in Operational Management 44:34 Embracing AI: Skills and Adoption Challenges 47:25 Book Recommendation: Atomic Habits for Change Learn more at: https://www.alignedmindsai.com https://www.tommentink.com Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/aligned-minds-ai/) for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI and if there’s a business leader you think I should invite onto the podcast, drop their name in the comments. #OperationalExcellence #LeanThinking #ChangeManagement #AIAdoption #FutureOfWork #BusinessTransformation #ContinuousImprovement #DigitalTransformation #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI

    49 min
  5. APR 1

    M&A Meets AI: Smarter Systems for Business Expansion - Trisha Galati

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, I sit down with Trisha Gulati, based in New York, United States, co‑owner of MergeWorks, to explore how businesses can move from manual processes to scalable, AI‑enabled systems. Something that really stood out in this conversation is how many businesses are still operating on legacy processes that rely heavily on individuals rather than structured systems. Trisha shares practical insights from working directly with companies looking to scale, acquire, or prepare for exit, and how AI adoption can unlock significant efficiency gains across sales, marketing, and operations. We explore why so many organisations struggle to get started with AI, often due to the pace of change, uncertainty around tools, and internal resistance from teams. This conversation made me rethink how important it is to start small, focusing on one workflow that is repetitive and time‑consuming, rather than trying to transform an entire business overnight. One idea that really resonated is the concept of using AI to build systems that reduce reliance on founders, helping businesses become more scalable, more attractive for acquisition, and ultimately more valuable. We also discuss the future of work, skills development, and how businesses can begin to integrate AI in a way that supports their workforce rather than replacing it. For sectors such as land development businesses and environmental consultancies, there are clear parallels in terms of process inefficiencies and opportunities for business transformation. If you are a business leader thinking about AI adoption, this episode provides a practical, grounded perspective on where to start and how to build momentum. Topics covered: Practical AI adoption in real businesses, automating sales and marketing workflows, and how AI is shaping business growth and acquisition readiness. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI in Business 01:31 Trisha's Journey into Technology and Business 04:21 Operational Challenges in Business Growth 06:35 The Role of Systems and Technology in Scaling 09:02 Adapting to Change: Overcoming Resistance 14:26 Practical Steps for AI Adoption 19:52 AI's Impact on M&A Processes 26:58 Preparing Businesses for Acquisition 28:22 Misunderstandings and Practical Tools for AI Learn more at: https://www.alignedmindsai.com https://www.mergeworks.org Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/aligned-minds-ai/) for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI and if there’s a business leader you think I should invite onto the podcast, drop their name in the comments. #AIAdoption #BusinessTransformation #FutureOfWork #AIAutomation #MergersAndAcquisitions #OperationalExcellence #ScalingBusinesses #DigitalTransformation #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI

    31 min
  6. MAR 26

    AI and Energy Systems: From Cost Centre to Asset - Steve Cassingham (MYNT Systems)

    In this episode of the Aligned on AI podcast, Karl Jones speaks with Steve Cassingham from MYNT Systems about how energy is becoming one of the most important strategic considerations for modern businesses. Something that surprised me in this conversation is how quickly energy is shifting from something businesses simply pay for, into something they can actively manage, optimise and even monetise. This conversation made me rethink the relationship between AI and infrastructure. While AI is often seen as the opportunity, energy is the constraint that will shape how far and how fast it can scale. We explore how decentralised energy systems are emerging, why battery storage is becoming critical, and how organisations can begin to take control of their energy rather than being exposed to rising costs and volatility. We also discuss how MYNT Systems is approaching AI internally, where it delivers value today, and why patience is still one of the most important strategies for adoption. Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI. #EnergyStrategy #CleanEnergy #RenewableEnergy #BESS #ArtificialIntelligence #BusinessTransformation #DigitalTransformation #EnergyTransition #EnergyConsultants #SustainableBusiness #AIForBusiness #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI   Chapters:   00:00 The Backbone of the Digital Economy 02:45 Steve's Journey into Clean Energy 05:45 Decentralized Energy Systems and Ownership 08:04 People-Centric Approach in Clean Energy 10:59 Mint Systems: A B Corp in Clean Energy 13:41 Navigating Construction Challenges in Energy Projects 16:16 Centralized vs. Decentralized Energy Generation 18:52 The Future of Battery Storage and EV Infrastructure 21:22 Energy as an Asset: A Paradigm Shift 24:13 AI's Role in the Energy Sector 26:51 The Impact of AI on Society 29:13 Energy Consumption and AI Efficiency 30:21 AI in Creative Processes 32:21 Patience in AI Adoption 35:39 AI's Role in Energy Management 38:25 The Future of EV Charging 41:08 Domestic Energy Solutions 44:33 Innovations in Material Science

    48 min
  7. MAR 20

    AI Transformation: The Missing People Plan - with Koreen Pagano

    Most organizations are rushing to adopt AI without fully understanding the skills their people need to succeed alongside these new systems. In this eye-opening episode, Koreen Pagano reveals why focusing on skills data and workforce capability is the key to a successful AI transformation—and how many companies are getting it wrong.   Join us as Koreen, an expert in workforce learning and AI readiness, shares her journey from studying education in the internet age to helping global enterprises navigate the rapid changes brought by AI. She dives into the critical skills that humans must develop—like discernment, critical thinking, and expertise—to stay relevant in an AI-powered future. You'll discover why traditional education models are unprepared for today’s fast-evolving landscape and how the next decade will bring a fundamental shift in jobs, skill-building, and organizational agility.   We break down concrete strategies to prepare your teams for the AI revolution:  from embedding continuous learning in daily workflows to harnessing AI for scalable practice and feedback. Koreen shares her insights on how leading companies like IBM are tripling entry-level hires to build expertise faster, and how smaller organizations can adapt without massive resources. You’ll also explore why the biggest AI opportunity lies in process, people, and culture, not just technology.   This episode is essential for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone holding the future of work in their hands. Get ahead of the AI curve by understanding what skills matter most—before your competitors do—and learn how to empower your workforce to thrive in the era of AI collaboration.   Perfect for those eager to future-proof their organizations or develop the kind of workforce that can work seamlessly alongside intelligent systems. The future of work is already here—are you ready?   Koreen Pagano is a seasoned leader at the intersection of AI, workforce capability, and skills data, known for helping organizations optimize human potential in technological transformations. Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI. Topics covered: service business growth, SME marketing, trust and reputation, associates/contractor delivery model, training and SOPs, quality control, operations, workflow automation, productivity, AI for business, AI for SMEs, AI governance, content repurposing. https://www.alignedminds.ai Chapters   00:00 The Excitement and Challenges of AI Transformation 04:40 Navigating the Skills Gap in AI 09:07 The Role of Practice and Feedback in Learning 13:29 Understanding AI Adoption in Organizations 17:54 Rising Tide Cooperative: Bridging People and Technology 21:54 Preparing the Workforce for an AI-Driven Future 24:46 The Human-AI Relationship: Who's in Charge? 27:12 Building Expertise in a Changing Job Market 31:02 The Importance of People in AI Transformation 34:47 Navigating Constant Change in AI Tools 37:06 Reverse Mentoring: Bridging Generational Gaps 39:48 The Future of Work: Evolving Roles and Responsibilities 43:28 Education's Role in Preparing for an AI-Driven Future #FutureOfWork #WorkforceTransformation #SkillsBasedOrganisation #AIAdoption #DigitalTransformation #LearningAndDevelopment #HumanAI #BusinessTransformation #AlignedOnAI #AlignedMindsAI

    49 min
  8. MAR 3

    From Police Officer to Founder: Building a Trust-Led Business - with Simon Henson

    How do you build a trust-led service business from scratch - and scale it using associates without losing quality? In this episode of Aligned on AI, Karl Jones talks with Simon Henson (Derbyshire, UK), Managing Director of Titan Private Investigation, about moving from 17 years in policing to running a high-discretion investigations business serving both corporate and private clients. Simon breaks down what actually drives growth when reputation matters: credibility, networking, consistent content, clear training standards, and managing client expectations. We also explore practical, responsible use of AI for SMEs - where it can save hours (report structure, admin, summarising notes, and reviewing long “camera soak” footage) and where it must not compromise integrity, evidence, or trust. What you’ll learn: The turning point when the phone “didn’t stop” and the business became self-sustaining Why Titan uses an associates model across England (and the practical limits of PAYE staffing) How Simon vets and trains operatives, including formal training pathways Why content + networking became the biggest growth lever (and how YouTube builds trust) Real AI opportunities: faster admin, better first drafts, content planning, and smarter triage of long footage AI red lines: anything that could affect integrity of imagery, video, metadata, or evidential reliability Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI. Topics covered: service business growth, SME marketing, trust and reputation, associates/contractor delivery model, training and SOPs, quality control, operations, workflow automation, productivity, AI for business, AI for SMEs, AI governance, content repurposing

    27 min
  9. MAR 3

    Selling Wine in 2026: Margins, Marketing, and AI Content – With Mark Davies (Hard to Find Wines)

    Selling wine in 2026 isn’t just about great bottles — it’s about margins, stock decisions, customer behaviour, and marketing that actually gets done. In this episode of Aligned on AI, Karl Jones chats with Mark Davies (Shropshire, UK), founder of Hard to Find Wines, about what it really takes to run a specialist wine retail and wine e-commerce business under rising UK costs — and how AI for SMEs can help without losing the human voice that makes a wine brand feel premium. Mark shares the behind-the-scenes reality of stock management (variety vs cash tied up on shelves), pricing and margin pressure, and what customers are doing differently — trading down, buying less often, gifting, and treating themselves more selectively. We also get practical on marketing for small businesses: what channels work, what’s hardest to do consistently, and how to keep content fresh when time is tight. A big focus is Mark’s real-world use of generative AI (light-touch, high impact) to speed up content creation   — including tasting notes, product descriptions, email copy, and promotional ideas — while keeping quality, accuracy, and brand voice intact. We talk about simple workflow automation, productivity, and sensible AI governance for small teams: what to trust, what to fact-check, and how to avoid generic outputs. If you run an SME in wine retail, food and drink, hospitality, e-commerce, or any experience-led business, you’ll take away practical ideas you can apply immediately. Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for practical AI tips, episode clips, and updates on future episodes of Aligned on AI. Topics covered: AI for business, AI for SMEs, wine business, Hard to Find Wines, wine retail, wine e-commerce, tasting notes, content creation, marketing automation, customer retention, stock management, pricing strategy, small business productivity, workflow optimisation, AI adoption, AI governance.

    32 min

About

Aligned on AI is a practical podcast for business owners and leaders, especially (but not exclusively) for environmental and AEC consultancies and land development businesses who want AI to deliver real results - without the hype. Host Karl Jones, founder of Aligned Minds AI, chats with operators, founders and experts from across a wide breadth of business and industry about what’s changing at work and where AI can genuinely help. Expect relaxed “coffee chat” conversations packed with real-world takeaways on improving productivity, streamlining operations, strengthening decision-making and building repeatable workflows. This isn’t a tech show for coders. It’s for people running businesses who want to: save time on admin, reporting and marketingreduce errors and rework with better processes and quality checksuse AI safely with clear guardrails and data habitsimprove sales and delivery with smarter systemsmake better decisions using the data you already havelearn what to try next (and what to avoid) Topics you’ll hear regularly: AI Adoption, Practical AI, AI for SMEs, AI tools, workflow automation, workflow optimisation, productivity with AI, process improvement, knowledge management, customer service, content creation, finance and reporting, forecasting, risk and compliance, change management, and AI governance. Each episode focuses on real business problems - bottlenecks, time leakage, quality issues, capacity, hiring constraints, cost pressures - and explores how leaders can use AI and automation to improve how work flows end-to-end. We also cover the human side: trust, adoption, training, and how to keep AI people-first. Follow Aligned Minds AI on LinkedIn for: short, practical AI tips you can copy into your day-to-day workepisode clips and summariestools, templates and safe prompt ideasupdates on upcoming guests and new episodes Aligned on AI - Real business conversations. Real AI outcomes.