Exploring Our New Reality: Season 14 – Episode 5 Recap with Erin Kelly from Advanced Symbolics Inc.

In the fifth episode of Season 14 of the podcast "Invested in Our New Reality," host Sam Laprade speaks with Erin Kelly, CEO of Advanced Symbolics Inc., an AI-powered market research company based in Ottawa’s ByWard Market. The episode delves into the reasons why Kelly and her company continue to thrive in downtown Ottawa and explores what the city can learn from other successful urban centers worldwide.

Advanced Symbolics is distinguished for its unique market research platform, askpolly, which predicts human behavior and outcomes without requiring prior human training. Erin provides insight into the platform's capabilities, which range from forecasting viral spread during public health concerns to gauging consumer reactions toward various products and services. This self-learning AI analyzes data from social media, utilizing census data to ensure diverse and representative samples, thus enabling organizations to make informed decisions and better serve their communities.

Erin Kelly explains that the ByWard Market was an ideal choice for her company due to its proximity to the University of Ottawa, which allows for fruitful collaborations and access to a talented pool of interns and potential employees. The central location also makes it accessible for staff commuting from surrounding areas.

During the conversation, the discussion shifts to the improvements needed in Ottawa's downtown to enhance its appeal for businesses and residents alike. Erin contrasts Ottawa’s downtown with those of other major cities like London and New York, highlighting the vibrant urban environments that feature excellent public transportation, diverse dining options, and strong cultural scenes. She emphasizes that downtown Ottawa suffers from a lack of activities in the evenings, contributing to a perception of emptiness and uninvitingness once the workday ends.

Erin addresses how successful cities foster vibrant atmospheres through food and culture while maintaining safety and accessibility. She mentions public spaces in places like New York's Bryant Park, which promote community engagement and enjoyment. The conversation touches on the balance of urban amenities and the need for Ottawa to be more proactive in revitalizing its downtown, particularly regarding the homeless population and making city spaces more inviting and active during the evening hours.

Furthermore, Erin Kelly expresses her personal love for Ottawa, appreciating its green spaces and outdoor activities, which she believes offer a unique quality of life compared to larger cities. The conversation concludes on a hopeful note regarding the future transformation of Ottawa’s downtown, as the city aims to become a desirable destination for businesses and residents alike.

Listeners can explore Erin Kelly’s insights about Advanced Symbolics and the importance of understanding consumer behavior through AI, alongside broader reflections on urban development and cultural engagement in Ottawa. For those seeking to further engage with the podcast, episodes are available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.