In this episode of the Earley AI Podcast, host Seth Earley sits down with industry analyst and advisor Tony Baer, a seasoned expert in data, cloud, and analytics. With decades of experience guiding global tech leaders like AWS and Oracle, Tony brings a nuanced perspective on how knowledge engineering is evolving—and why context is the missing link in many enterprise AI initiatives.

Together, Seth and Tony explore the shift from static data models to dynamic knowledge frameworks, the renewed importance of governance, and how graph databases and generative AI are reshaping enterprise intelligence. This is a conversation packed with hard-earned lessons and actionable insight for data, IT, and transformation leaders aiming to make AI work in the real world.

Key Takeaways:

• Knowledge engineering today is about dynamic, adaptive structures—not static ontologies or rigid models.
• The role of the knowledge engineer is shifting: it’s less about technical mastery and more about bridging data, business, and domain expertise.
• Context is foundational. The five W’s—Who, What, When, Where, Why (and How)—unlock meaningful, actionable intelligence.
• Graph databases and AI are enabling real-time connections across data, turning static information into living knowledge.
• Generative AI delivers the most value when rooted in organizational context. RAG strategies demand clean data and strong information architecture.
• Successful AI initiatives are focused. Start with well-bounded, high-impact processes—avoid boiling the ocean.
• Core principles from previous data waves still apply. It’s about evolving governance, stewardship, and architecture for the AI era.
• Sustainable value comes from feedback loops, iteration, and alignment—not silver bullets.

Tune in to discover how to make AI practical, actionable, and intelligent for your organization.

Quote of the Show: "Just because something is old does not make it wrong. There are a lot of disciplines we've built up over the years—governance, data stewardship—that still matter. The principle was right. We just adapt it and use our learnings from each cycle to become more knowledgeable and proficient." Tony Baer

Links

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbinsight/

Website: https://www.dbinsight.io

Thanks to our sponsors:

• VKTR
• Earley Information Science
• AI Powered Enterprise Book

In this episode of the Earley AI Podcast, host Seth Earley welcomes two insightful guests from Anders, a top 100 CPA firm: David Hartley and Dave Blatt. David Hartley is a seasoned CPA with a profound understanding of the synergy between finance and technology. He advocates for how AI can enhance traditional accounting roles rather than replace them. Dave Blatt brings a wealth of knowledge in AI automation and analytics, focusing on empowering mid-sized companies to harness AI for competing with larger players.

Join us as we dive into the world of AI applications in the finance, accounting, and mid-market operations sectors. Our guests dispel common myths and fears surrounding AI, exploring how small and medium-sized enterprises can practically and effectively adopt AI technologies to drive transformation and growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Demystifying AI: Understanding AI in the context of mid-market companies and addressing misconceptions around AI replacing human jobs.
• AI for Mid-Sized Enterprises:** How AI is accessible and beneficial for mid-sized businesses, allowing them to compete with larger organizations.
• Impact on Accounting: Enhancing traditional accounting roles through AI and freeing up time for more value-added activities.
• Implementation Strategies: Best practices for implementing AI in mid-sized companies, focusing on education, small projects, and quick wins.
• Real-World Applications: Case studies in industries like construction and manufacturing, where AI has improved efficiency and productivity.
• Communication and Trust: The importance of communication and building trust among team members to ensure successful AI adoption.

Quote of the Show: "Start small and not make it so daunting... get some quick wins that will be a catalyst to doing more projects and bigger efforts." - Dave Blatt

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davehartley/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveblatt/

Website: https://anderscpa.com

Article: AI Adoption Is Not as Hard as You Think – Start Now or Fall Behind

Thanks to our sponsors:

• VKTR
• Earley Information Science
• AI Powered Enterprise Book

In this episode of the Earley AI Podcast, we welcome guest, Jack Lampka, an accomplished advisor and speaker with over 27 years of experience in corporate roles within the tech and pharma sectors. Now based in Munich, Germany, Jack specializes in enhancing data storytelling and cultivating a product mindset among technical employees. His extensive career journey includes living and working in countries like Poland and the United States.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• The importance of a product mindset for technical teams when developing AI solutions.
• Understanding the misconceptions and realistic expectations for AI and generative AI in businesses.
• How to successfully sell AI solutions internally by focusing on business needs and creating a comprehensive product marketing plan.
• The role of data storytelling in bridging the gap between technical and non-technical users.
• Insights into the hype surrounding Agentic AI and its relevance to current business applications.

Thanks to our sponsors:

• VKTR
• Earley Information Science
• AI Powered Enterprise Book