Richard Ellis joins the show to cut through the noise surrounding AI and digital transformation. We discuss the real state of AI adoption, what organizations must do to get data-ready, and how leaders can measure ROI amid rapid change. Richard also breaks down the rising challenges in cybersecurity, data privacy, and workforce skills as businesses adapt to the next era of intelligent technology.

Richard Ellis is a seasoned technology executive and digital transformation strategist with more than two decades of experience guiding global organizations through the evolving landscape of AI, data management, and cybersecurity. Known for his ability to translate complex technologies into practical business value, Richard has led large-scale innovation initiatives across multiple industries, helping companies modernize their systems, strengthen data readiness, and adopt emerging tools responsibly.

His expertise spans enterprise AI deployment, cloud modernization, information governance, and risk management—making him a trusted advisor to senior leaders navigating high-stakes technological change. Richard is also a frequent speaker and educator on the future of work, digital ethics, and the organizational capabilities required to succeed in a rapidly shifting digital economy.

Learn more about Richard:

• LinkedIn profile
• AnswerDigital.com

• The hype surrounding AI is real, but understanding its use cases is crucial.
• Organizations are in a testing phase for AI adoption.
• Data readiness is a significant barrier to AI implementation.
• User education is essential for realizing AI's potential benefits.
• Cybersecurity concerns must be addressed when using AI tools.
• Companies need to establish clear data privacy policies.
• Legal implications of AI use are still being defined.
• Measuring ROI on AI investments requires a cautious approach.
• Small businesses can be more agile in adopting AI compared to larger enterprises.
• Future skills should focus on understanding and leveraging AI technology.

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Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com (mailto:info@brianjmatos.com) or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos (https://twitter.com/brianjmatos?lang=en)

In this episode, Brian J. Matos sits down with Professor Charles Kupchan—renowned international relations scholar, former White House advisor, and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations—for a deep dive into the rapidly changing global landscape.

Together, they explore the decline of Western dominance and the emergence of a multipolar world, the erosion of liberal democratic norms, and the implications of new economic and technological forces on global stability. Kupchan offers a candid and strategic view of where international power is heading—and what role the United States may (or may not) play next.

Whether you're a global strategist, student of world affairs, or simply trying to understand today's shifting geopolitics, this conversation is essential listening.

🔑 Topics Discussed:

• The end of unipolarity and the return of great power competition

• Challenges to liberal democracy in the digital age

• The enduring relevance of nuclear deterrence

• How economic revolutions reshape geopolitical order

• The future of U.S. foreign policy and global leadership

🎓 Guest Bio:
Professor Charles Kupchan is a leading voice on international strategy and diplomacy. He teaches at Georgetown University, is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and served on the National Security Council under President Obama.

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#GlobalPolitics #MultipolarWorld #CharlesKupchan #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations #BrianJMatosPodcast

What happens when elections continue, but democratic values quietly erode?

In this episode, Brian J. Matos sits down with veteran intelligence analyst and policy adviser Fulton T. Armstrong to explore the rise of illiberal democracies—governments where democratic structures exist in form, but not in function. Drawing from decades of experience in U.S. intelligence and foreign policy, including his current role with Syracuse University's Maxwell School, Armstrong examines how leaders like Viktor Orbán and Nayib Bukele consolidate power, weaken institutions, and use populism to undermine liberal norms.

Together, they explore:

– The defining traits of liberal vs. illiberal democracies
– Why strongman leadership appeals to disillusioned voters
– The critical role of institutions and the press
– Lessons from Latin America and U.S. foreign policy missteps
– What public apathy means for the future of freedom

This wide-ranging conversation is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the state of democracy at home and abroad.

🔗 Learn more about Fulton Armstrong:
American University Bio
Syracuse University Maxwell School – D.C. Programs

Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/ and subscribe to Brian's YouTube channel ( / @brianjmatospodcast ) for show clips and exclusive content.

Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com (mailto:info@brianjmatos.com) or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos (https://twitter.com/brianjmatos?lang=en)

#Geopolitics #Democracy #LatinAmerica #ForeignPolicy #Authoritarianism #IlliberalDemocracy #Politics #Strongmen #CivicEngagement

In this thought-provoking episode, Brian is joined by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Lushenko—U.S. Army strategist, drone warfare expert, and co-editor of Drones and Global Order—to explore the evolving battlefield shaped by drones and artificial intelligence.

Together, they unpack how drone warfare is changing military strategy, public perception, and international law. From Ukraine's tactical drone advancements to the murky ethics of autonomous targeting and AI-driven decision-making, this conversation examines how lethal force is increasingly influenced by algorithms and automation.

LTC Lushenko brings clarity to complex questions:

• How do military leaders balance effectiveness with ethical constraints?

• What role should AI play in lethal decision-making?

• And are we prepared for the unintended consequences of autonomous warfare?

Whether you're a policymaker, defense analyst, or simply curious about the future of warfare, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Guest Bio & Resources:
Learn more about LTC Paul Lushenko and his research:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullushenko
Book: Drones and Global Order: Implications of Remote Warfare for International Society

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📢 Follow the show on X @BrianJMatos and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.

#drones #AI #militarytechnology #ethics #defensepolicy #autonomousweapons #modernwarfare #Ukraine #nationalsecurity #brianjmatos