# UKTN Podcast Episode: Exploring AI’s Impact, Productivity Tips, and Faculty’s Journey with Dr. Angie Ma

In this captivating episode of the UKTN Podcast, we delve into a wide-ranging discussion with Dr. Angie Ma, the co-founder of Faculty, a leading software and consulting provider for businesses. Dr. Ma shares her insights on the dual nature of AI in an election year, Faculty’s decision to cease political work post-Brexit referendum, and her personal productivity tips for entrepreneurs.

## Faculty’s Origin and Evolution:

Dr. Ma co-founded Faculty in 2014 with the mission to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Initially established as a fellowship program to support academics in their transition to becoming commercial data scientists, Faculty has since evolved into a prominent provider of AI solutions and consulting services to businesses. The company boasts an impressive client roster, including renowned names like HSBC, Tide, and John Lewis.

## Insights from Faculty’s Work with Public and Private Sectors:

Dr. Ma sheds light on Faculty’s valuable experiences working with both the public and private sectors. The company’s notable engagements include collaborating with the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping them navigate the challenges of data management and analysis. Faculty also played a crucial role in assisting the Home Office in combating the spread of ISIS propaganda online.

## AI’s Double-Edged Sword in Election Years:

Dr. Ma acknowledges the growing adoption of AI tools by businesses, recognizing the excitement surrounding these technologies. However, she cautions against getting caught up in the hype, emphasizing the need for careful consideration to avoid potential risks. She highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of AI and ensuring that it is used responsibly and ethically.

## AI’s Role in Democratic Processes:

With a significant portion of the world facing elections in the upcoming year, Dr. Ma addresses the public’s concerns regarding AI’s influence on democracy. While acknowledging the threat posed by deepfakes and the potential for misinformation, she also sees an opportunity for AI to contribute positively to the democratic process. She envisions AI being used to improve education and civic engagement, ultimately strengthening democracy.

## Faculty’s Political Work and Subsequent Media Attention:

Dr. Ma addresses Faculty’s involvement in providing services to Vote Leave during the 2016 Brexit referendum, which generated controversy. She explains that Faculty made the decision to discontinue political work in 2019 due to the distracting nature of the resulting media attention. This allowed the company to refocus on its core mission of providing AI solutions and consulting services to businesses.

## Dr. Ma’s Productivity Tips for Entrepreneurs:

As a self-proclaimed “productivity junkie,” Dr. Ma generously shares her personal strategies and tools for maintaining efficiency as a founder. Drawing upon her diverse background, including a PhD in physics and applied optics from UCL, she emphasizes the importance of time management, prioritization, and effective delegation. Dr. Ma also recommends specific productivity tools and techniques that have helped her succeed as an entrepreneur.

## Listen to the Full Episode and Subscribe to the Podcast:

To gain further insights into Dr. Angie Ma’s perspectives and Faculty’s journey, tune in to the full episode of the UKTN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast newsletter to stay updated on future episodes featuring key influencers and decision-makers in the UK tech industry.

## Podcast Sponsorship:

The UKTN Podcast is proudly sponsored by HSBC Innovation Banking, a leading provider of flexible banking solutions tailored to startups, scaleups, growth businesses, investors, and those preparing for an IPO. HSBC Innovation Banking offers a range of services to support businesses at every stage of their growth journey.

## About the UKTN Podcast:

The UKTN Podcast features conversations with key influencers and decision-makers in the UK tech industry. Through interviews with seasoned and emerging founders, investors, and policymakers, the podcast delves into growth strategies, market trends, and the impact of policy decisions on the country’s innovation economy.