Ep 52: Responsible AI and Cognitive Diversity to Drive Talent Transformation with Jen Kirkwood


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Jan 31 2025 57 mins  

Bob Pulver speaks with Jen Kirkwood, an expert in HR technology and IT, about her journey into Responsible AI. They discuss the rapid changes in AI, the importance of transparency and governance in AI systems, and the critical role of HR in managing talent and cybersecurity. Jen emphasizes the need for cognitive diversity in AI governance and decision-making. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities that AI presents for HR and the workforce, the importance of data in AI hiring practices, and the role of responsible AI in promoting inclusivity. They explore the rapid evolution of AI in HR, the need for AI ethics and governance, and the critical role of HR in implementing responsible AI practices. The discussion also highlights the value of neurodiversity in innovation and the necessity of balancing technology with human talent in organizations.


Keywords

HR technology, AI, generative AI, workforce optimization, cybersecurity, talent management, responsible AI, data privacy, offboarding, cognitive diversity, AI, hiring, diversity, responsible AI, HR, talent acquisition, data analytics, inclusivity, neurodiversity, technology transformation


Takeaways


  • Jen Kirkwood has over 28 years of experience in HR technology and IT.

  • She founded Talvana Consulting to focus on talent optimization.

  • AI is rapidly changing the landscape of HR and IT.

  • Transparency in AI systems is crucial for effective governance.

  • Offboarding processes are often neglected but essential for alumni relations.

  • Cognitive diversity is important in AI governance committees.

  • HR must be involved in AI decision-making processes.

  • Cybersecurity is a critical concern for HR data management.

  • Inclusivity in hiring practices is vital for innovation.

  • The future of work requires a focus on skill development and optimization.

  • Data analytics maturity is crucial for effective hiring practices.

  • Historical bias in hiring data can perpetuate discrimination.

  • Responsible AI can uncover overlooked talent pools.

  • Organizations must prioritize AI ethics and governance.

  • HR needs to articulate business cases for responsible AI.

  • Neurodiversity can drive innovation and creativity.

  • Flexibility in management is essential for diverse teams.

  • Self-learning and digital literacy are key for organizational transformation.


Sound Bites


  • "AI models need to be embedded in every use case."

  • "AI is a team sport."

  • "The complexity of AI regulations is overwhelming."

  • "How do we hire more talented engineers?"

  • "Responsible AI is how we get through this."

  • "HR is the highest risk area."

  • "We are all responsible for responsible AI."

  • "You can't just cut everyone."

  • "Flexibility is a treasure in management."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jen Kirkwood and Her Journey

02:50 The Intersection of HR and IT in AI

06:12 Challenges and Opportunities in AI for HR

08:57 The Importance of Transparency and Governance in AI

12:04 Navigating Offboarding and Alumni Relations

15:07 The Role of Cognitive Diversity in AI Governance

18:05 Cybersecurity and Responsible AI Practices

21:08 The Future of Work and Talent Optimization

32:24 The Importance of Data in AI Hiring Practices

34:42 Responsible AI: A Path to Inclusivity

35:41 The Rapid Evolution of AI in HR

39:00 AI Ethics and Governance in Organizations

41:22 The Role of HR in Responsible AI Implementation

45:54 Transforming Organizations Through AI and Inclusivity

51:31 Harnessing Neurodiversity for Innovation

55:31 Balancing Technology and Human Talent


Jen Kirkwood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenphillipskirkwood/

Talvana Consulting: https://talvanaconsulting.com/


For advisory work and marketing inquiries:

Bob Pulver: https://linkedin.com/in/bobpulver

Elevate Your AIQ: https://elevateyouraiq.com


Thanks to Warden AI (https://warden-ai.com) for their sponsorship and support of the show! Warden is an AI assurance platform for HR technology to demonstrate AI-powered solutions are fair, compliant, and trustworthy.