Beyond the hype: The real-world challenges of AI execution.

I'm thrilled to welcome you to this episode, marking the relaunch of The Curveball—a podcast we first started back in 2019. It’s hard to believe it’s been six years! A lot has changed since then, and right now, we’re experiencing perhaps the biggest curveball of all—AI.

We’re bringing the podcast back because AI is reshaping how we live and work, and we want to explore its impact, challenges, and opportunities.

If you’re new here or rejoining us—a big welcome! I’m Chris Morris, and today’s episode has a slightly different format.

Recently, I had the privilege of hosting a live podcast discussion in Lisbon, Portugal, with over 40 MSc Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Strategy students from one of Europe's top business schools, Emlyon. The session was organised and facilitated by the British Portuguese Chamber of Commerce which I must say, if you’re not already familiar with their fantastic events and opportunities for membership, I highly recommend that you look them up at bpcc.pt

I was joined by three outstanding guests:

Aline Gómez-Acebo – Aline currently is the Chief Sustainability Officer in Asisa, Spain’s largest healthcare group with millions of policyholders and patients. She also runs ENIAX, a digital health startup that optimizes medical agendas through AI in over 8 countries and with over 6 million users per month. Aline is a cofounder of Calafia, Iberian’s first female led Angel Investment group. She is also in education as a Board Member of Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (one of Spain's largest public universities) and a faculty member of IE business school. Aline has also been named in the Top 100 Spanish Female leaders and helps as an advisor to various consultancy companies.

Pierre Khemdoudi – Pierre Khemdoudi is the co-founder and CEO of Gentek.ai, an innovative AI-powered, no-code platform that transforms complex data processes into streamlined workflows. 

With over 20 years of experience in capital markets and technology across North America, Europe, and Asia, Pierre has a deep expertise in building industry-leading solutions. Previously, he led the creation of the global regulatory reporting suite at S&P Global, including the industry-standard SFTR product, and oversaw key acquisitions like Catena and Cappitech. Before S&P, Pierre drove product innovation in equity and regulatory businesses at IHS Markit, delivering tailored solutions to the investment management community. His journey began in aerospace engineering in North America. 

Pierre's career is marked by a passion for building impactful products and transforming industries through technology.

Ferdinand Lucke – Ferdinand Lucke is the CEO & Founder of Masterful Advisory and an Associate to the 2Leadership Group, providing strategic advisory, mentoring, and coaching for CEOs, boards, and middle management. With a sharp focus on innovation and transformation, he helps leaders navigate complexity and drive sustainable growth.

A former executive at Canon Europe Ltd., Ferdinand brings decades of international leadership experience, having advised global companies like ThyssenKrupp Steel, DHL Express, and WIKA. His expertise spans commercial strategy, organisational change, and leadership development, making him a sought-after partner for businesses aiming to scale and evolve.

As an ICF-certified executive coach, Ferdinand empowers leaders to build high-performing teams and shape the future of their organisations.

I hope you enjoy the episode!

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