Angela Virtu joined Kogod's IT&A Department as a Professorial Lecturer in 2023. She has taught undergraduate and graduate courses covering topics such as introduction to technology, data analytics, machine learning, and coding. Prior to joining our faculty, she built AI & ML solutions that bridged theoretical advancements with their practical, ethical applications. She was able to drive business impact on these solutions by empowering organizations to integrate them seamlessly into the business’ current operations. In today’s episode, we delve into the changing landscape of AI, touching on effective ways to quantify ROI beyond traditional metrics like time savings and productivity. Angela shares her insights on the evolution from traditional AI to modern AI agentic workflows, emphasizing the need for responsible integration into business operations. Topics covered also include the use of AI in marketing, sales, and customer service, the implications of generative AI, and the potential for AI agents to transform the future of work. The conversation highlights the importance of human involvement to ensure quality and ethical utilization of AI technologies. Angela also stresses the need for students and professionals to adapt to these changes by cultivating soft skills and collaborative capabilities. This episode provides valuable insights for CEOs, founders, and industry leaders on staying ahead in the fast-evolving world of AI.

👉 In this episode

(00:00) Introduction to the AI CEO Podcast

(01:44) Guest Introduction: Angela Virtu

(02:31) Angela's Journey into AI and Business

(04:41) Explaining Neural Networks

(06:57) Traditional AI vs. Current AI Landscape

(07:33) AI in Startups and Data-Driven Decisions

(15:47) AI in Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service

(41:58) Proactive Customer Service with AI

(43:17) Generative AI: A New Era

(52:13) Understanding AI Agents

(53:19) The Future of Work with AI Agents

How to Drive Real Business ROI with AI — Featuring Prof. Angela Virtu (American University)