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We are LIVE from the IRMS conference floor in sunny (well, rainy!) Wales!

In this episode, host Jacqueline Stockwell catches up with two absolute superstars who make the magic happen: Paulina Jedwabska (Conference Director) and Deborah Ward-Johnston (Revolution Events).

If you think information management is just about dusty files, think again! We are breaking down how this year's event completely shook things up. From an incredibly moving performance by a local charity choir to an amazing "Enchanted Forest" gala dinner filled with secret quests and icebreakers, this year was all about building a true community.

We also talk into the big topics: 🤖 How AI is sneaking into every conversation (and why humans are still in charge!).

The buzzing "Information Market" where 30+ vendors are collaborating instead of just competing. 🎤 How YOU can take the stage or show off your business at next year's event in Manchester!

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or brand new to the industry, this chat will leave you pumped up, inspired, and ready to take action!

What we chat about:

• The secrets to running a calm, happy event for 400+ people!

• Singing along with "The Choir with No Name" to support a great cause.

• Why AI means we need human skills more than ever.

• Inside the "Vendor Showcase"—where companies get just 1 minute to wow the crowd!

• Your roadmap to pitching a talk or booking a booth for Manchester next year.

Links from show chat

IRMS Main Site: irms.org.uk

IRMS Conference Site: irmsconference.org.uk

Our Amazing Charity Choir: The Choir with No Name

The Event Rockstars: Revolution Events

Jacqueline’s Team: Leadership Through Data

Connect with Paulina: LinkedIn Profile

Connect with Debz: LinkedIn Profile

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Is the information professional of 2030 actually an AI Ethicist in disguise? In this episode, host Jacqueline Stockwell sits down with Paulina Jedwabska, Conference Director at the IRMS (Information and Records Management Society) and a leading voice in AI Governance.

With a career spanning the Olympics, the ICO, and Magic Circle law firms, Paulina shares how the "thread" of data connects every sector—and why the IRMS network is the ultimate "secret weapon" for information leaders. We dive into the "cake" of AI governance, the power of professional resilience, and why your records management skills are exactly what the world of AI ethics needs right now.

Whether you’re a "one-man band" in a small firm or leading a global department, this episode is a call to action to stop watching the AI "horror stories" and start leading the journey.

Show Notes

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The Mission of the IRMS: Celebrating over 40 years of connecting people who care about good information governance and records management.
• The "North Star" for IRMS Conference: Why the focus is shifting toward transferable skills, real-life scenarios, and current "unsolved" challenges like AI.
• The Power of the Network: How the IRMS community acts as a "big family" to provide solutions, budget-winning tips, and career support for isolated professionals.
• Resilience in Governance: Paulina defines resilience as "powering through" complex legislation (like the AI Act) and leading stakeholders on a journey of possibility rather than fear.
• The AI Cake Analogy: Why AI is just the "cherry on top" that requires solid layers of data and governance to stand up.
• Constitutional AI: A look at how users and businesses can take an active role in lobbying for ethics and transparency in AI services.
• Advice for New Professionals: Why Paulina recommends apprenticeships and "learning on the job" over expensive degrees alone.

Notable Quotes:

Resources Mentioned:

IRMS Website: irms.org.uk

The IRMS Conference: IRMS Conference 17th – 19th May 2026 – The Celtic Collection

Upcoming Location: Manchester (Next year's conference).

Book Recommendation: Blooming Good Information Management: How to Empower Yourself and Your Workforce - Jaki Speaks

Connect with Paulina:

• LinkedIn: Paulina Jedwabska | LinkedIn
• Jacqueline Stockwell ARIM, BA Hons, MSC | LinkedIn

At the Conference: Grab her for a chat—she's always keen to speak to like-minded people!

Don’t forget to subscribe to for more podcast into the world of information management!

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Did you know that five AI prompts consume the equivalent of a full glass of water? Most people associate carbon footprints with planes and cars, but our digital habits are leaving an equally massive—yet invisible—mark on the environment.

In this episode, Jacqueline Stockwell sits down with Rachel Mitchell, Principal Consultant at Leadership Through Data, to peel back the curtain on Data Decarbonization. They dive deep into the physical reality of data: the cooling systems, the millions of gallons of water used by data centres, and the energy consumed by every "like," emoji, and duplicate email trail.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The Power of ROT: Why Redundant, Obsolete, and Trivial data is a "lose-lose-lose" for your business and the planet.
• AI’s Thirst: The surprising environmental cost of AI prompts and how to use digital tools more consciously.
• Influencing the Board: How to use the "Green Agenda" to finally get leadership to care about information governance.
• Practical First Steps: How to stop the "uncontrolled growth" in OneDrive and SharePoint without overwhelming your team.

Whether you are an information leader, an "eco-warrior," or just someone looking to declutter your digital life, this conversation provides the clarity and confidence needed to build sustainable information practices.

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