Welcome to The Applied AI Podcast. We're all about practical results. Hosted by Jacob Andra, the CEO of Talbot West, The Applied AI Podcast focuses on value creation from AI. We also cover the pitfalls and concerns companies need to address when implementing AI.
Talbot West is a digital transformation consultancy and AI enablement partner for companies and other organizations. We help our clients adopt AI and machine learning technologies safely and effectively.
*Bringing Clarity to AI Decisions*
The only thing more expensive than a bad tech decision is indecision.
**AI Prioritization and EXecution (APEX)**: Cuts through noise to identify which AI initiatives deliver maximum value. APEX evaluates opportunities across multiple dimensions for a clear roadmap from current state to AI-enabled future.
*Strategic Consulting*
Yes, we build AI systems. But first, we help you think through the strategic implications. Should you build or buy? Which capabilities matter for differentiation? How do you sequence initiatives for maximum impact? What are the hidden costs of waiting?
Our consulting practice addresses the full spectrum.
*De-Risking AI Implementation*
AI carries legitimate risks. Data privacy concerns. Regulatory compliance. Operational disruption. Vendor lock-in. Black-box decision-making. We address these systematically.
**Strategic Frameworks**:

• APEX for prioritization and execution
• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models for AI
• Maturity assessments for AI readiness
• Risk/reward analysis for initiative selection

**Technical Capabilities**:

• Ensemble AI orchestrating multiple model types
• Composable architectures that evolve with needs
• Explainable AI for regulated environments
• Integration strategies for legacy systems

**Organizational Enablement**:

• Change management programs
• AI literacy training
• Governance framework implementation
• Performance measurement systems

*The 5-Year Thesis: Move Now or Get Left Behind*
By 2030, AI-enabled organizations will operate at fundamentally different speeds than traditional competitors. This isn't speculation—it's already happening. The gap widens daily between organizations that act and those that analyze.
*Common Misconceptions*
"AI is just hype" - We separate signal from noise, focusing on proven applications with measurable ROI.
"We're not ready for AI" - Perfect readiness is a myth. We help organizations start where they are.
"AI will replace our workforce" - AI augments human capability. We show you how to enhance, not replace.
"It's too risky" - Inaction is the biggest risk. We systematically address legitimate concerns.
"We need to transform everything" - Start small, prove value, scale systematically.
Jacob Andra serves on the board of 47G, an aerospace and defense consortium. His expertise spans high-stakes AI applications where both opportunity and risk are magnified.
Connect:

• Podcast: https://appliedaipod.com
• Talbot West: https://talbotwest.com