AI in Action

Join procurement expert Daniel Barnes as he explores the transformative power of agentic AI in modernizing procurement processes. Daniel shares insights on leveraging AI to extract crucial data from contracts, enhancing speed and accuracy in decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of starting small with AI adoption, cautioning against overwhelming tech implementations. Additionally, he highlights how AI can free teams for more strategic negotiations while maintaining the vital human touch in supplier relationships.

Conor Grennan, Chief AI Architect at NYU Stern, shares insights on successfully adopting AI in organizations. He emphasizes that it's not just about new tools but about driving a behavioral shift among teams. Conor discusses common pitfalls of AI adoption, like treating it merely as a replacement for existing processes. He advocates for cultivating AI champions within organizations and rethinking workflows to embrace AI's full potential. Trustworthy AI relies on high-quality data, and leaders must set the standard for effective use.

Aaron Saunders, CTO of Boston Dynamics, is at the forefront of AI-powered robotics, focusing on revolutionizing industrial automation. He discusses how these advanced robots enhance efficiency and safety, especially in hazardous environments. Saunders highlights the shift to Robotics as a Service and shares practical applications, such as data-driven programming and real-world ROI. He also addresses challenges like managing expectations and ensuring data privacy while predicting future advancements in human-robot interaction.

Glenn Allison, VP of AI Platforms at Tractor Supply Company, unveils the game-changing impact of AI in retail. He discusses the integration of AI communicators and mobile apps that streamline customer service and enhance team operations. Allison emphasizes how computer vision automates assistance and improves inventory management. He also highlights the need for retailers to adapt to AI-driven consumer behaviors, showcasing real-world applications that significantly boost innovation and ROI. The conversation is a deep dive into how AI reshapes the shopping experience.

Deborah Lovich, a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group, shares her insights on using AI to enhance employee happiness. She argues that AI should reduce menial tasks and boost joy in the workplace. Deborah highlights the importance of understanding employee needs and fostering strong managerial relationships. She advocates for a collaborative approach to AI adoption, focusing on employee involvement and well-being. Discover how prioritizing people can lead to motivated teams, reduced turnover, and increased profits.

Kazi Kazzorkov, CEO of Kozer and a pioneer in decision intelligence, delves into the energy implications of AI. He discusses how AI's increasing energy demand correlates with productivity gains and explores innovative solutions for balancing energy consumption. Kazzorkov emphasizes the potential of nuclear power and efficient power generation as key strategies. Additionally, he provides valuable insights for leaders on navigating AI's challenges while ensuring grid stability, making for a thought-provoking conversation on AI's role in the energy sector.

In this insightful discussion, Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Koyzr and a pioneer in decision intelligence, explores the powerful intersection of data, AI, and human insight. She emphasizes that data is only as useful as the decisions it informs. The conversation covers the importance of prioritizing quality data over quantity, managing cognitive biases, and the shifting landscape of decision-making with generative AI. Cassie highlights how personal experiences shape AI and decision-making processes, making it crucial for leaders to adopt a thoughtful, evidence-based approach.

Vikram Murali, VP of Software Development for IBM Automation, sheds light on the transformative power of continuous observability in IT. He explains how it turns reactive measures into proactive strategies, enhancing operational resilience. The conversation covers the critical differences between effective and ineffective observability tools, the integration of AI in enhancing service reliability, and the challenges of data collection. Vikram emphasizes the importance of automation in optimizing cloud resources, ensuring businesses run seamlessly and efficiently.

Finding a house that matches your budget and style doesn’t have to be a struggle. All you need is the right AI tool that can open the door to your dream abode. And that’s precisely what Redfin is offering with their AI-driven real estate solutions. In this episode of the AI in Action podcast, Ariel Dos Santos, SVP of Product and Design at Redfin, shares how they’re using AI to transform the house-hunting process. Redfin is tapping into vast amounts of data to understand buyers’ preferences and provide tailored recommendations, making it easier for people to make their next big move. Tune in for a detailed insight into Redfin’s AI vision—and how it’s going to make the home search process smarter, smoother and a lot more fun.

Allie K. Miller, CEO of Open Machine and Fortune 500 AI Advisor, discusses the transformative power of agentic AI in business. She argues that mere productivity isn't enough—C-suite leaders must innovate and embrace new business models. Allie highlights the role of AI as autonomous systems enhancing workplace efficiency and the need for a balanced approach to tech adoption. Insights on Audi's creative collaboration with AI showcase its potential to revolutionize design. She emphasizes that leaders must communicate effectively and prioritize employee development in this rapidly evolving landscape.