51. AI & the Employer Edge: What Small Businesses Need to Know

In this episode, we’re diving into the transformative world of artificial intelligence (AI) and what it means for today’s small business leaders and employers. Host Chris Cooley is joined by Executive Director and State CIO of the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services, Craig Orgeron, CPM, Ph.D. They break down how AI is evolving, and what business owners really need to know.

From workforce development and ethical use to nuanced HR decisions and regulatory unknowns, this conversation explores the real opportunities and risks AI presents in the workplace. Whether you're leveraging AI for marketing, automation or HR support, this episode will help you better understand how to balance innovation with responsibility.

 

Timestamps:

• 0:53 - AI in Mississippi
• 3:22 - Workforce Development and AI Partnerships
• 6:04 - Use Cases and Small Business Applications of AI
• 9:17 - Data Privacy and Ethical Considerations
• 12:21 - AI's Impact on Marketing and Sales
• 14:56 - Regulatory Landscape and the Future of AI
• 18:19 - Challenges and Opportunities in AI Implementation
• 21:18 - The Future Outlook of AI