Experts in the Hot Seat

  • Karen Silverman – CEO & Founder of The Cantellus Group
  • Denise Holt – CEO of AIX Global Media
  • Dr. David Bray – Distinguished Chair of the Accelerator at Stimson Center & CEO of LDA Ventures Inc.
  • Lori Rosenkopf – Author of Unstoppable Entrepreneurs: 7 Paths for Unleashing Successful Startups and Creating Value through Innovation

1. Practical AI Governance: Theory vs. Reality

Karen Silverman emphasized the urgent need for actionable AI governance strategies. It's no longer enough to talk about ethical AI in abstract terms—leaders must establish governance frameworks that translate principles into real-world implementation.

2. Breakthrough in Active Inference AI

Denise Holt introduced active inference AI, a paradigm that enables real-time decision-making with remarkable energy efficiency. This shift marks a step-change in how intelligent systems operate—moving from reactive processes to autonomous, context-aware agents.

3. Leadership with Empathy & Agility

Dr. David Bray urged leaders to adopt empathy and adaptability as foundational skills amid rapid AI-driven change. He highlighted how emotional intelligence and pivot readiness are essential traits in guiding organizations through evolving technological landscapes.

4. Debunking the “Tech-Only” Founder Myth

Lori Rosenkopf challenged the stereotype that startup success comes solely from technological prowess. Her book underscores that resilient entrepreneurs combine innovation with leadership, cultural awareness, and a capacity to create lasting value—proving the equation is more human than algorithmic.

Emerging Tech Trends & Resilience

In addition to core discussions, the panel explored:

  • The IEEE spatial web protocol and its implications for ambient intelligence
  • The evolution and future direction of intelligent systems
  • Why a blend of resilience, inclusive leadership, and bold innovation are non-negotiables in today’s volatile environment

Why This Matters to You

By pulling together governance, AI innovation, empathetic leadership, and entrepreneurial mindset, this episode traces a roadmap for sustainable growth:

Focus Area Organizational Impact

  • Governance: Mitigates risk and ensures ethical frameworks
  • Active Inference AI: Drives smarter, leaner decision-making
  • Empathetic Leadership: Builds adaptation and employee trust
  • Entrepreneurial Resilience: Empowers teams to scale thoughtfully

Together, these insights act as compasses for organizations navigating complex tech and leadership challenges.

Tune in Every Friday

DisrupTV airs live Fridays at 11 AM PT / 2 PM ET, hosted by R "Ray" Wang and Vala Afshar. For those driving innovation, governance, and culturally intelligent growth, it's essential viewing.

Key Takeaway

To succeed at the edge of AI and governance, champion practical frameworks, embrace intelligent decision-making, lead with human-centered empathy, and foster entrepreneurial resilience.

Check out the full conversation above or here—it’s a masterclass in aligning tech, ethics, and leadership for the future.