Great Talk Inc is set to host an engaging panel discussion titled THE DATA CENTER OUTRAGE: CAN AI SURVIVE WITHOUT DATA CENTERS?. This event is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 7 PM. It will take place at the University of Baltimore, specifically in the H. Mebane Turner Learning Commons located at 11415 Maryland Ave, Baltimore, MD. Interested participants can register for free to attend either in person or to view via livestream.
PANEL OF EXPERTS
CARL BRAUN, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Data Center Group.
With a rich background in land development, strategic infrastructure planning, and commercial real estate brokerage, Carl Braun has over ten years of experience through Coldwell Banker Commercial Elite. As the Co-Founder and CEO of the Data Center Group, Carl focuses on discovering, evaluating, and developing top-tier data center locations across the United States. His extensive know-how in the data center area has solidified his status as a leading expert in site selection, entitlement, brokerage, and development. Braun’s profound understanding of power and fiber infrastructure, zoning laws, and user requirements for data centers allows him to provide remarkable results for investors and developers navigating the intricate terrain of digital infrastructure. Under his guidance, the Data Center Group has procured numerous data center projects across Virginia and ten other states. His strategic vision and collaborative spirit have positioned the firm for ongoing growth at both regional and national levels, efficiently linking landowners with diverse data center users, spanning from edge facilities to hyperscale projects. Carl’s unique ability to merge technical knowledge with real estate acumen guarantees that every project—from initial land qualification to full-scale development—is driven forward strategically and with a focus on long-term value creation.
TYSON SLOCUM, Director of Public Citizen’s Energy Program.
As the director of Public Citizen’s Energy Program, Tyson Slocum oversees activities relating to the regulation of energy markets and leads initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable, affordable energy solutions. His work is pivotal in addressing the ongoing climate crisis, emphasizing the importance of a fair energy transition that ensures renewable energy and sustainable transportation options for families. Tyson is actively involved in the regulation of electricity, natural gas, and petroleum markets, often appearing before the U.S. Congress to testify on various issues, including AI data center energy demands. Besides, he plays an essential role as an intervenor on behalf of the public interest at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and contributes to two advisory committees for the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission regarding Energy, Environmental Markets, and Market Risk. Slocum’s research has been presented to Congress and he has been featured on major television networks such as CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News, as well as quoted in notable publications like Forbes and The New York Times. Furthermore, he serves as a faculty member at the University of Maryland Honors College, teaching energy and climate policy, and was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2017.
JESSICA STANSBURY, Director of the Center for AI Learning at the University of Baltimore.
Dr. Jessica A. Stansbury is an esteemed leader in higher education, focusing on artificial intelligence strategy and helping both institutions and communities manage technological transformations while prioritizing learning and public service. As the Director of Teaching and Learning Excellence at the University of Baltimore, she also heads the Center for AI Learning and Community-Engaged Innovation (CAILI). Through her work with CAILI, Stansbury champions initiatives that bridge AI, higher education, workforce progression, and community engagement, emphasizing AI literacy and equitable access. She is known for developing tools like the Human AI Landscape framework and the AI Navigator model to assist organizations in understanding and adapting to AI technology. Her institution-wide projects have included enhancing teaching innovation and facilitating faculty and student AI education, along with creating development programs centered on evidence-based instructional practices. Before her current role, Stansbury dedicated 15 years to academia as a psychology instructor and program leader, and her past experience as an addictions therapist heavily influences her human-centered approach to education and technology. Her work, which spans various topics including AI implementation and learning dynamics, has attracted national attention, establishing her as a valued speaker and expert on the future of education and responsible AI usage. In 2026, she was recognized as one of 100 Changemakers by the AI-Powered Women initiative and participated in a notable conference at MIT, reinforcing her commitment to preparing communities for an AI-driven tomorrow.
MODERATOR: COURTNEY C. RADSCH, Journalist & AI Governance Expert.
Dr. Courtney Radsch, PhD, is a recognized global thought leader and strategist focused on AI governance, technology policy, and information ecosystems. Recently named one of the 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics, she currently spearheads the bicontinental Center for Media & Digital Governance at the Open Markets Institute. Her multi-faceted background as a journalist, scholar, and human rights advocate adds an essential perspective towards understanding issues related to the concentrated power within Big Tech and AI, the evolution of journalism, human rights, and democracy. Dr. Radsch’s expertise encompasses information and power, competition, anti-trust practices, and freedom of expression. She frequently addresses these topics through speeches and publications, including testimonies before global parliaments and competition authorities. With a rich history of serving on various boards and advisory bodies for major organizations, she has provided expertise to the United Nations and various tech entities. Known for steering successful advocacy efforts and extensive training for journalists worldwide, Dr. Radsch has established herself as a formidable advocate for accountability and informed policy-making, having authored significant works on digital activism and political change. Currently, she continues to publish analytical contributions in both academic and mainstream media, further solidifying her position in the discourse surrounding AI ethics and technology in society.
