What if the real value of AI isn’t in the technology itself, but in the pain points and problems it solves for business? That’s the question at the heart of this episode of Where AI Works, which features an iconic company that’s been at the forefront of digital transformation for decades.

Host Serguei Netessine is joined by Tereza Nemessanyi, worldwide director of private equity and venture capital partnerships at Microsoft, to explore the varied, experimental approaches many of her clients are taking in an effort to monetize their AI offerings. As Tereza points out, AI deployment is still in its early stages, and success in this space requires a culture that supports rapid iteration, short sprints, and a willingness to explore both vertical and horizontal applications to see what sticks. She believes the biggest opportunities lie in high “cost-to-serve” areas — pain points where AI can dramatically reduce effort or complexity. In other words, AI isn’t a destination — it’s a journey, and the smartest companies are already well down the road.

Comments

New This Week

Why Consumers Are Still Spending Despite Inflation
Podcast

Why Consumers Are Still Spending Despite Inflation

July 21, 202614 min listen

Professor Barbara Kahn explains what is driving resilient retail spending.

Social Security’s Funding Crisis and the Future of Retirement
Podcast

Social Security’s Funding Crisis and the Future of Retirement

July 17, 202613 min listen

Wharton professor Kent Smetters explains Social Security’s projected funding shortfall, the risk of benefit cuts, and the policy choices ahead.

How AG1 Built Trust Through Podcast Marketing
Podcast

How AG1 Built Trust Through Podcast Marketing

July 16, 202629 min listen

Paulie Dery, chief marketing officer at AG1, on turning trusted podcast voices into lasting brand growth.