From breaking robots to healing humans: Babak Abbaschian on asking questions and innovating with AI

In this episode of Fail Faster, Babak Abbaschian, Senior Director of Data Strategy and Analytics at Churchill Down shares how to deliver AI projects that actually succeed.

Babak turned 150 year old Churchill Downs into an AI powerhouse through these techniques. And he is using his expertise to make people’s lives better by using AI in a way that humanizes people instead of technology for the sake of technology.

He emphasizes the importance of failing fast, asking the right questions, and sharing wins early and often. Babak discusses how to prioritize projects by targeting quick wins that deliver significant business value, stressing the need for data readiness and organizational preparation when adopting AI solutions. He also offers insights on using technology to address human challenges, such as improving public safety and enhancing people’s lives. Listen in to learn how to tackle the hurdles of digital transformation and drive positive change through innovation.

Babak on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/babakabbaschian/
Babak on X: https://twitter.com/babakkab