“Slow trust builds faster futures.”
with Stefan Schoepfel, Founder of the Value AI Institute
In this episode of the in-between trust podcast, Eva Simone Lihotzky speaks with Stefan Schoepfel, founder of the Value AI Institute, about how we lead—and trust—in an era shaped by intelligent systems. They explore what it means to embed ethical principles, emotional intelligence, and leadership clarity into AI development and deployment.
Stefan shares why trust must take a much larger space in the conversation, how unlearning linear thinking unlocks innovation, and how responsibility must move beyond compliance toward genuine accountability. From governance to culture, this episode is a call to stay human—and stay in the driver’s seat.
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🔑 Takeaways
Trust is foundational for user acceptance and systemic success.
Ethical principles must guide both design and deployment.
AI leadership requires emotional intelligence and clear oversight.
Organizations must embed ethics into processes—not just policies.
Responsible tech can support sustainability and the societal good.
Unlearning linear thinking is key to adapting and leading.
Ongoing trust-building requires visibility and cultural buy-in.
AI systems must always include human-in-the-loop safeguards.
Compliance should enable—not hinder—innovation.
Don’t let tech steer blindly—stay in control.
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🎙️ Sound Bites
“Trust needs to take a much larger space.”
“AI must comply with ethical principles.”
“Stay in the driver's seat with technology.”
“Unlearning is as vital as innovation.”
“Leadership in AI means embracing ambiguity.”
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⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Trust and AI
02:21 – The Value AI Institute: Mission and Goals
05:28 – The Importance of Trust in AI
09:46 – Ethical Principles and Responsible AI Design
11:20 – Implementing Ethical AI in Organizations
14:06 – The Role of Leadership in AI Systems
16:20 – Building Trust in Teams and Systems
18:07 – Navigating Leadership Challenges with AI
19:24 – The Impact of AI on Ethical Usage
22:50 – AI for Societal Good and Sustainability
25:45 – Unlearning Linear Thinking in AI
28:19 – Embracing Ambiguity in AI Leadership
29:33 – Key Takeaways on Technology and Trust
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🧩 Keywords
AI, trust, ethical AI, Value AI Institute, leadership, responsible tech, societal good, emotional intelligence, organizational culture, ambiguity, unlearning, governance
