The Only Constant

Episode #46 | Martin Lassen-Vernal & Louise Harder Fischer | A negotiated - not just automated - future

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Martin Lassen-Vernal from the City of Copenhagen and Louise Harder Fischer from the IT University of Copenhagen to explore their newly developed methodology for AI adoption: STAIR – Socio-Technical AI Reflection. Their discussion dives deep into how organizations can integrate generative AI while maintaining human values, productivity, and well-being. Here's a quick breakdown of of topics covered in their discussion:The eight core principles of STAIR and why they matter for AI adoptionThe tension between productivity gains and the social impact of AI in workplacesWhy AI shouldn’t just adapt to us—we should make demands of itHow organizations can foster meaningful discussions around AI without stifling innovationThe challenge of navigating AI hype, governance, and ethical concernsWith a mix of critical reflection, real-world implementation, and a few unexpected detours (including the surprising lessons from Denmark’s first webcam experiment), this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating AI’s role in the modern workplace.Do you want to know more about Martin Lassen-Vernal?Martin Lassen-Vernal is a prominent Danish communications professional currently serving as the Head of Communications at the Technical and Environmental Administration in the City of Copenhagen. With over 25 years of experience in public sector communication, he has held leadership roles in organizations like the Capital Region of Denmark and the Danish Institute for Human Rights. His professional expertise spans public relations, digital transformation, and strategic communication.A recognized expert in generative AI's application in communications, Lassen-Vernal has been actively exploring how artificial intelligence can reshape organizational communication strategies. He holds a Master's degree in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Copenhagen and is known for his innovative yet cautious approach to integrating AI technologies. As a thought leader, he frequently speaks at conferences and shares insights on LinkedIn about the intersection of technology, communication, and organizational change.Do you want to know more about Louise Harder Fischer?Louise Harder Fischer holds a PhD and is an Associate Professor at the IT University of Copenhagen, where she also serves as the Program Director for the MSc in Digital Innovation & Management. Her research focuses on sociotechnical changes, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and digital work. Louise is deeply engaged in understanding how AI impacts work processes and knowledge work, as well as how to ensure the responsible and sustainable integration of AI in organizations. She has developed methods that help balance technology with well-being and meaningfulness in the workplace and is actively involved in both academic and professional networks.

Episode #45 | Karl Friston | Active intelligence, non-equillibrium steady states and enterprise jazz

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with prof. Karl Friston, one of the most distinguished neuroscientists of all time, and an advisor on intelligence for Verses AI. Karl is one of the most highly cited scientists of all time, and his perspectives and insights from neuroscience brings much needed anchoring to the discussion of intelligence - also in AI. Their discussion focuses on:The concept of non-equilibrium steady states and how they mirror organizational change and adaptability.Active inference as a cornerstone of intelligence, curiosity, and decision-making.A provocative perspective on innovation: why disruption without grounding can be self-destructive and how sustainable innovation demands ecosystem harmony.The parallels between enterprise strategy and the perpetual dynamics of self-organizing systems.Bring your curiosity - and sharp attention - for this truly insightful, deep and razor sharp episode of The Only Constant with a generational genius and true thought leader. Bio:Karl Friston is a theoretical neuroscientist and authority on brain imaging. He invented statistical parametric mapping (SPM), voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and dynamic causal modelling (DCM). These contributions were motivated by schizophrenia research and theoretical studies of value-learning, formulated as the dysconnection hypothesis of schizophrenia. Mathematical contributions include variational Laplacian procedures and generalized filtering for hierarchical Bayesian model inversion. Friston currently works on models of functional integration in the human brain and the principles that underlie neuronal interactions. His main contribution to theoretical neurobiology is a free-energy principle for action and perception (active inference).Do you want to know more about Karl Friston?Friston received the first Young Investigators Award in Human Brain Mapping (1996) and was elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (1999). In 2000 he was President of the international Organization of Human Brain Mapping. In 2003 he was awarded the Minerva Golden Brain Award and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2006. In 2008 he received a Medal, College de France and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of York in 2011. He became of Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology in 2012, received the Weldon Memorial prize and Medal in 2013 for contributions to mathematical biology and was elected as a member of EMBO (excellence in the life sciences) in 2014 and the Academia Europaea in (2015). He was the 2016 recipient of the Charles Branch Award for unparalleled breakthroughs in Brain Research and the Glass Brain Award, a lifetime achievement award in the field of human brain mapping. He holds Honorary Doctorates from the Universities of York, Zurich and Radboud University.

Episode #44 | Demetrios Brinkmann | AI Agents: Hype, Complexity, and What Actually Works

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with Demetrios Brinkmann, founder of the ML Ops Community, about the evolving role of AI agents and the balance between hype and practical applications. Their dynamic conversation dives into the complexities of AI in modern enterprises and the lessons learned from real-world use cases:The current state of AI agents and why stability remains elusiveWhy limiting scope is the key to success in agentic workflowsThe growing challenge of AI governance as tools proliferate across organizationsA provocative discussion on the societal implications of hacking language as a foundational elementThis conversation challenges conventional thinking and offers an unfiltered look at the intersection of technology, hype, and practicality. Perfect for anyone eager to cut through the noise and explore what really matters in the future of AI. Do you want to know more about Jeff Winter?Demetrios is one of the main organizers of the MLOps community and currently resides in a small town outside Frankfurt, Germany. He is an avid traveler who taught English as a second language to see the world and learn about new cultures. Demetrios fell into the Machine Learning Operations world, and since, has interviewed the leading names around MLOps, Data Science, and ML. Since diving into the nitty-gritty of Machine Learning Operations he felt a strong calling to explore the ethical issues surrounding ML. When he is not conducting interviews you can find him making stone stacking with his daughter in the woods or playing the ukulele by the campfire.

Episode #43 | Jeff Winter | Generative AI’s Role in Smart Manufacturing

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Jeff Winter, a globally recognized voice in Industry 4.0 and digital transformation. With over 18 years in industrial automation, Jeff is known for breaking down complex concepts, inspiring audiences from factory floors to boardrooms. Here’s what you’ll take away:Why Jeff calls AI the “Swiss army knife” of business—streamlining decision-making, tasks, and automation.How generative AI is shaping smarter manufacturing systems, from predictive maintenance to factory optimization.The right balance between modernization, optimization, and transformation to make Industry 4.0 work.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the crossroads of technology and transformation.Do you want to know more about Jeff Winter?Jeff Winter is a distinguished expert in Industry 4.0 and digital transformation, with nearly two decades of experience in industrial automation. He has held senior roles at Grantek, Microsoft, and Hitachi Solutions, advising multi-billion-dollar firms on shaping their digital strategies. In September 2024, Jeff joined Critical Manufacturing as Vice President of Business Strategy, driving strategic growth, business development, and helping the company expand its influence in the global manufacturing landscape. Throughout his career, Jeff has been recognized for his ability to simplify complex technological concepts, making them accessible to a wide range of audiences. His active involvement in industry organizations, including serving on the International Board of Directors for MESA International and the International Society of Automation (ISA), underscores his commitment to advancing the manufacturing sector.Jeff's thought leadership is further demonstrated through his substantial online presence, with over 130,000 LinkedIn followers and more than 70 million post impressions, reflecting his dedication to industry engagement and education. His contributions have earned him multiple awards, including #1 Industry 4.0 influencer by Onalytica in 2023, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the field.

Episode #42 | Tom Goodwin | Better technology requires better questions

In this episode, Lasse Rindom speaks with Tom Goodwin, a globally recognized author and innovation leader, known for his work on digital transformation and as the author of Digital Darwinism.Their conversation spans an exciting range of topics:The paradoxes of AI adoption, from transformative potential to unimaginative applicationsWhy businesses struggle with disruption and the challenges of "turning oil tankers into speedboats"The need to question, “Is this good for us?”—a reflection often missing in tech-driven decisionsThe case for "dynastic planning" in business and preparing for irrelevanceDo you want to know more about Tom Goodwin?Tom Goodwin is a digital business transformation specialist and the founder of All We Have Is Now (AWHIN, Inc), a consultancy dedicated to helping companies harness the power of emerging technologies to create better, more consumer-centric products and services. As the host of The Edge on Euronews, a series reaching over 250 million households, Tom explores the intersection of business, culture, and technology, spotlighting companies and individuals shaping the future. He is also the author of Digital Darwinism, a critically acclaimed business book available in seven languages, recently released in a new edition. A globally recognized keynote speaker, Tom has delivered over 100 speeches in 42 countries, bridging the gap between punditry and practical application. With a career spanning two decades across digital, creative, and media agencies, his expertise lies in digital transformation, innovation, and the evolving interplay of technology, consumer behavior, and business strategy.Tom’s work has been featured in The New York Times and The Economist, with over 500 articles published in outlets like Forbes, TechCrunch, and the World Economic Forum. Voted the #1 Voice in Marketing, he boasts an online following of over 700,000 people. As a proponent of "nowism," Tom believes that today's technology holds untapped potential for driving growth through imagination and action. Known for his provocative style, he asks bold questions to spark meaningful insights, driven not by engagement metrics but by genuine curiosity. Tom is passionate about the unprecedented opportunities of our time, offering guidance to help businesses navigate change and capitalize on the transformative power of technology.

Episode #41 | Mathias Kop Balsløw | The Reality of AI in Business Innovation

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom is joined by Mathias Kop Balsløw, an experienced technology strategist at Basico. Their discussion dives deep into the evolving relationship between AI technology and practical business applications:The reality behind AI's hype: distinguishing public perception from technological progress.Why understanding business problems remains the most significant bottleneck for adopting AI tools effectively.The evolution of AI as a tool for automation and productivity, rather than a "magic bullet" solution.Exploring the implications of context windows, agents, and the need for clearer business instructions to maximize AI's potential.Matthias's pragmatic take on the future of business automation: a gradual evolution where preparation for AI integration is key.Do you want to know more about Mathias Kop BalsløwMathias Kop Balsløw combines forward-looking innovation with a results-oriented approach to drive impactful transformation. As Director of IT, Digitalisation, and PMO at Basico, he leads strategic initiatives that optimize processes, modernize infrastructure, and unlock the potential of emerging technologies.His expertise spans artificial intelligence, automation, and business transformation, enabling him to deliver tailored solutions that align with both immediate needs and long-term organizational goals. Despite his young age, Mathias has established himself as a highly accomplished professional with a deep understanding of AI, ERP systems, and digitalization.His ability to distill complex technological advancements into practical, actionable strategies positions him as a key figure in bridging the gap between innovation and implementation. Mathias’s leadership continues to redefine how businesses approach technology, ensuring solutions are both cutting-edge and grounded in operational excellence.

Episode #40 | Ted Shelton | Ethics, Friction, and the Intelligent Machine

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Ted Shelton, COO at Inflection, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and human values.What happens when machines don’t just do things but start reflecting who we are, how we think, and what we care about? It’s a conversation that pushes beyond the usual buzzwords, diving into the ethical, practical, and philosophical implications of AI becoming more integrated into our lives and work.Who decides what’s valuable when machines start taking action?Are we too eager to erase life’s “small frictions”—the very moments that make us human?What’s left of us if AI can mimic intelligence, but not the pain, desire, or drive that fuel it?Is the push for AI agents worth the massive effort, or are we overcomplicating the obvious?This isn’t about hype or hand-wringing—it’s a closer look at where AI meets humanity, and whether we’re ready for the stories it’s starting to tell about us.Do you want to know more about Ted Shelton?Having spent 15 years in management consulting, most recently as an Expert Partner for Bain and Company, as of June 2024, Ted Shelton has returned to the software industry. Today he serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Inflection AI, Inc., creators of Pi and one of the top model-building AI companies in the world.

Episode #39 | Søren Friis Alexandersen | Building AI into modern ERPs and business suites

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom speaks with Søren Friis Alexandersen, Principal Product Owner for Business Central at Microsoft. Their discussion discusses the evolving relationship between AI and enterprise software, uncovering both the practical demands and the philosophical questions posed by the AI shift. Key topics include:The mandate to integrate AI into product backlogs and the pressure it createsStriking a balance between human oversight and AI-driven automationThe philosophical challenges of building trust in systems with "machines that have opinions"Why modern ERP systems must be flexible yet deterministic to meet diverse customer needsHow the pursuit of productivity enables humanity to tackle greater complexitiesDo you want to know more about Søren Friis Alexandersen?Søren Friis Alexandersen is a renowned thought leader in the ERP space, known for his deep expertise and collaborative approach. He's 28 years into his career, and currently a Principal Product Manager at Microsoft in the Dynamics 365 Business Central engineering team, working on Microsoft's core business solution for SMBs, where his mandate is to rethink Finance through the lens of AI. With a distinguished standing in the community, Søren Friis Alexandersen is celebrated not only for his technical acumen but also for his unwavering commitment to openness and continuous learning, always bringing in the human factor into technology. Søren Friis Alexandersen is a strategist at heart, and his leadership is characterized by his ability to bridge the gap between complex technological concepts and practical, human-centered applications. As a lifelong learner, Søren Friis Alexandersen continuously seeks new knowledge and perspectives, fostering a culture of growth and adaptability within his professional circles. He shares the broadly held view that technology can and should improve human lives through increased productivity, though he thinks a lot about what we will do with the productivity gain long term, and how we ensure AI in particular is fair, transparent, and accessible to all.

Episode #38 | Christian Bech Nørhave | AI’s Role in Business and Society

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom sits down with Christian Bech Nørhave from the Danish Chamber of Commerce (Dansk Erhverv), engaging in a deep discussion that spans the challenges and opportunities of generative AI in enterprises:Why most Danish companies are still unprepared for generative AI, despite its "iPhone moment" in 2022.The pitfalls of treating AI as a "magic button" rather than a transformative tool.How Danish enterprises leverage structured data systems but often miss the mark on AI-enabled innovation.The balance between automation and maintaining human connection, especially in customer support and workplace dynamics.The societal implications of AI, from educational reforms to regulatory complexities within the EU.Do you want to know more about Christian Bech Nørhave?Christian Bech Nørhave is a prominent figure in the Danish business and technology sector, currently serving as Chief Consultant for AI at The Danish Chamber of Commerce, where he focuses on advising 19.000 companies on AI, and the Danish Government. With nearly two decades of experience in digitalization consulting, he has established himself as an expert in the field, particularly in artificial intelligence. Often referred to as an AI Evangelist and Futurist, Christian Bech Nørhave has dedicated the last 3.5 years exclusively to AI, providing valuable insights to businesses of all sizes. In addition to his consulting work, Christian Bech Nørhave is a sought-after speaker at industry events like the Digital Tech Summit and serves on advisory boards for various companies. His extensive background in digital transformation, combined with his passion for future technologies, positions him as a leading voice in Denmark’s digital landscape.

Episode #37 | Kasper Junge | Generative AI and financial operations

In this episode of The Only Constant, Lasse Rindom engages in a deep conversation with Kasper Junge, the lead AI engineer at Visma Dinero, an accounting software company, exploring how generative AI is reshaping financial operations. Highlights of their discussion include:The unexpected connection between language and accounting, tracing back to ancient Mesopotamia, where writing initially served administrative purposes.How generative AI can enhance the storytelling aspect of financial transactions by adding context to sparse information.The challenges and opportunities of using AI for automation, particularly in categorizing bank transactions and verifying accounting accuracy.A reflection on the limitations of AI as a 'language interface' and the future potential of language-driven systems in financial tech.Do you want to know more about Kasper Junge?Kasper Junge is the Lead AI Engineer at Dinero, where he leads Dinero's work with AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP), including generative language models. He is the co-founder and chairman of the Danish Data Science Community and is an enthusiastic advocate for AI technology, engaging both engineers and general audiences. He is known for his contributions to the AI community in Denmark, including co-hosting the "Verbos Podcast," for which he received the Data and AI Influencer DAIR Award in 2023.