It is not often that I find myself on the other side of the microphone. I am usually the one asking the questions, guiding the conversation, drawing out insights and encouraging reflection. This time, my good friend Steve Morreale placed me in the hot seat and invited me to talk openly about artificial intelligence, what 2025 has taught us and what 2026 might hold.
It was a conversation that flowed from lived experience rather than theory. Over the past year, AI has moved from an interesting concept to an everyday working companion for many of us. For some, it still feels daunting. For others, it is a game-changer. For me, it has been both challenging and exciting, and above all, a constant learning process.
From curiosity to practical application
When I started experimenting with AI, it really was a case of curiosity first. I wanted to understand what these tools could do, where they could help and where the risks might be. Quickly, that curiosity turned into practical application. I began seeing how AI could support creativity, enhance productivity and free up time for deeper, more strategic thinking.
Through both success and failure, I learnt that the real value of AI is not in replacing human intelligence but in strengthening it. When used ethically and thoughtfully, it becomes an assistant that helps us think better, work smarter and act more decisively.
That journey led to the development of the AI Playbook and the growth of the AI6 podcast. These platforms became a way to share experiences, tackle concerns and show others how to use AI in ways that are both responsible and effective.
Real world impact across industries
One of the most powerful parts of our conversation was exploring how AI is already being used in real world roles. Not in a futuristic or abstract way but in everyday professions such as policing, accountancy and leadership.
In policing, AI is supporting data analysis, pattern recognition and resource planning. In accountancy, it is helping to streamline processes, identify trends and allow professionals to focus more on advisory work rather than admin. In leadership, it is providing new ways to process information, make decisions and communicate more effectively with teams.
These are not gimmicks. They are meaningful shifts in how work is being done. However, they require training, understanding and a willingness to experiment.
Learning by doing
If there is one message I hope people take from this episode, it is this: you cannot understand AI from the sidelines. Reading articles and listening to discussions can only take you so far. At some point, you have to jump in.
Learning by doing is the only real way forward. Yes, there will be mistakes. Yes, it can feel uncomfortable. But that is where the learning happens. Every experiment, every prompt and every fail is a step towards greater confidence and clarity.
It is also essential that we approach AI with a strong ethical mindset. Transparency, accountability and human oversight must always remain at the centre of how we use these tools.
Looking ahead to 2026
As Steve and I looked towards 2026, the tone of the conversation was not one of fear but of cautious optimism. AI is not slowing down. If anything, it will become more integrated into our daily lives and working practices. The question is not whether it will impact us, because it already has. The question is how prepared we choose to be.
Those who engage now, with curiosity and responsibility, will be the ones who benefit most. Those who wait may find themselves scrambling to catch up.
This is not about being a technical expert. It is about being open, adaptable and willing to learn.
Final thoughts
This conversation reminded me why I am so passionate about helping others navigate the digital and AI space. We are in the middle of one of the biggest technological shifts of our time. It is exciting, uncertain and full of opportunity.
If you have been sitting on the fence about AI, consider this your nudge. Start small. Ask questions. Test tools. Reflect on results. Join the conversation, rather than watching it from the outside.
And above all, remember that the future is not something that just happens to us. It is something we shape through the actions we take today.
About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience in training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
