In this VoiceAmerica episode, we explore AI's trust issues with Christian J. Ward, Chief Data Officer of Yext. We discuss how companies like OpenAI, Claude, and Google focus on building trust through a two-panel design that provides citations for AI-generated content. This trend harkens back to SEO practices, highlighting the renewed importance of citations. Ward notes that some businesses are even reporting new leads from AI interactions.

OpenAI's SearchGPT and Google's Gemini are leading this field, but we anticipate an explosion of open-source models accessing real-time data. The episode emphasizes the distinction between subjective and objective questions, with AI showing promise in handling objective queries that help with daily tasks and decision-making.

Ward explains how humans alternate between subjectivity and objectivity throughout their day, stating that "subjective is what you want, objective is what you need." This exploration aims to give listeners insight into AI's capabilities and potential impact on our everyday lives.

Christian J. Ward, the Executive Vice President, and Chief Data Officer at Yext, focused on the expanding applications of data and AI in marketing and entrepreneurship.

Yext helps organizations build digital experiences across channels on their
open and composable platform. The Yext Digital Experience Platform collects and organizes content to deliver AI-led experiences for any organization’s customers, employees, or partners.

His focus is to help Yext clients identify, value, and structure their knowledge to maximize their data value in AI and search applications. Ward co-authored the Amazon bestseller Data Leverage: Unlocking the Surprising Growth Potential of Data Partnerships and has developed and executed hundreds of data partnerships worldwide.

Ward has served as Chief Data Officer of Arizent, Chief Data Officer of Data Axle, and Global Head of Content Innovation at Thomson Reuters, among other roles. He founded and sold two structured data companies, one in financial analytics and the other in media analytics. He has been quoted in publications like the Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, Adweek, Fortune, and Forbes. He speaks frequently on data strategy, partnerships, and the impact of Artificial Intelligence.

In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of ethical leadership. Leading with integrity, honesty, and fairness has never been more critical in today's rapidly changing world. Ethical leaders understand the significance of prioritizing the well-being of their team members, customers, and communities while driving toward organizational success. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of ethical leadership and how leaders can foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and high ethical standards in the workplace. We uncover actionable strategies and insights to empower leaders to build a stronger, more ethical future.

Claas Florian Engelke, a Senior Principal at Korn Ferry. Engelke is dedicated to empowering individuals to become ethical leaders who make a positive impact. He is the co-author of the book: The Practice of Ethical Leadership—Insights from Psychology and Business in Building an Ethical Bottom Line. This insightful read offers actionable suggestions for developing ethical leaders and bridging the gap between psychology and business in the pursuit of a more ethical bottom line. Engelke's approach is all about fostering continuous learning and helping clients strive to be the best versions of themselves. By encouraging clients to question themselves and embrace personal growth, Engelke enables them to unlock their full potential and reach new heights. Beyond his professional endeavors, he has a range of private passions. From listening to and composing music to exploring the realms of literature and traveling, he finds inspiration in the world around him. His Engagement with the psychology of sleep, craftsmanship, and design enriches his holistic perspective. Find out more at https://ethicalbottomline.com/.