
Building Your AI Roadmap: From Vision to Execution | Episode #0009
05/09/25 • 73 min
1 Listener
Follow the SSTB Newsletter - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7305986878653022210/
Start Small, Think Big: Episode 0009 - Show Notes
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical components of building an AI roadmap, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and data readiness. They explore current trends in AI, the challenges organizations face in implementation, and the necessity of pilot projects to gather feedback and iterate on solutions. The conversation highlights the need for flexibility in AI strategies and the role of technology tools in facilitating business transformation.
Keywords
AI roadmap, strategic planning, AI implementation, business transformation, data readiness, pilot projects, stakeholder engagement, technology tools, AI trends, business insights
Takeaways
- Building an AI roadmap requires clear, measurable business objectives.
- Strategic planning is vital for successful AI implementation.
- Stakeholder engagement is crucial for identifying key use cases.
- Data readiness and quality are foundational for AI projects.
- Pilot projects should be implemented with clear ownership and feedback loops.
- AI is transforming business processes, but challenges remain.
- Organizations must adapt to the rapid changes in AI technology.
- Flexibility in AI strategies is essential for success.
- Learning to leverage AI tools can free up time for more complex tasks.
- Creating a culture of experimentation and learning is key to AI adoption.
Titles
- Navigating the AI Landscape: A Roadmap for Success
- From Vision to Execution: Building Your AI Strategy
Sound Bites
- "AI is coming for all of our jobs."
- "It takes a village to implement AI."
- "An AI roadmap isn't set in stone."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Roadmap
05:43 The Importance of Strategic Planning in AI
14:32 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Implementation
18:43 The Future of AI and Job Market Dynamics
28:09 The Role of Marketing and HR in AI Integration
29:56 Understanding the Impact of AI on Executive Management
31:32 Sales vs. Business Development: A Distinction Worth Noting
32:00 The Importance of Institutional Knowledge
33:06 The Future of Human Connection in an AI World
35:02 Practical AI Roadmaps for Businesses
36:03 Defining Clear Business Objectives for AI
39:09 Navigating Internal Politics for AI Success
42:05 The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement
49:34 Assessing Data Readiness for AI Implementation
54:38 Integrating Disparate Systems for AI Success
56:03 Data-Driven AI Implementation
58:45 Selecting the Right Tools for Your Organization
01:00:09 Understanding SaaS Solutions and Their Limitations
01:02:35 Building an AI-Native Culture
01:07:35 Implementing Pilot Projects and Iteration
01:12:27 Strategic Insights and Future Directions
We build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.
Follow the SSTB Newsletter - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7305986878653022210/
Start Small, Think Big: Episode 0009 - Show Notes
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical components of building an AI roadmap, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and data readiness. They explore current trends in AI, the challenges organizations face in implementation, and the necessity of pilot projects to gather feedback and iterate on solutions. The conversation highlights the need for flexibility in AI strategies and the role of technology tools in facilitating business transformation.
Keywords
AI roadmap, strategic planning, AI implementation, business transformation, data readiness, pilot projects, stakeholder engagement, technology tools, AI trends, business insights
Takeaways
- Building an AI roadmap requires clear, measurable business objectives.
- Strategic planning is vital for successful AI implementation.
- Stakeholder engagement is crucial for identifying key use cases.
- Data readiness and quality are foundational for AI projects.
- Pilot projects should be implemented with clear ownership and feedback loops.
- AI is transforming business processes, but challenges remain.
- Organizations must adapt to the rapid changes in AI technology.
- Flexibility in AI strategies is essential for success.
- Learning to leverage AI tools can free up time for more complex tasks.
- Creating a culture of experimentation and learning is key to AI adoption.
Titles
- Navigating the AI Landscape: A Roadmap for Success
- From Vision to Execution: Building Your AI Strategy
Sound Bites
- "AI is coming for all of our jobs."
- "It takes a village to implement AI."
- "An AI roadmap isn't set in stone."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Roadmap
05:43 The Importance of Strategic Planning in AI
14:32 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Implementation
18:43 The Future of AI and Job Market Dynamics
28:09 The Role of Marketing and HR in AI Integration
29:56 Understanding the Impact of AI on Executive Management
31:32 Sales vs. Business Development: A Distinction Worth Noting
32:00 The Importance of Institutional Knowledge
33:06 The Future of Human Connection in an AI World
35:02 Practical AI Roadmaps for Businesses
36:03 Defining Clear Business Objectives for AI
39:09 Navigating Internal Politics for AI Success
42:05 The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement
49:34 Assessing Data Readiness for AI Implementation
54:38 Integrating Disparate Systems for AI Success
56:03 Data-Driven AI Implementation
58:45 Selecting the Right Tools for Your Organization
01:00:09 Understanding SaaS Solutions and Their Limitations
01:02:35 Building an AI-Native Culture
01:07:35 Implementing Pilot Projects and Iteration
01:12:27 Strategic Insights and Future Directions
We build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.
Previous Episode

AI Won’t Work Without People: The Culture Shift We Need | Episode #0008
Follow the SSTB Newsletter - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7305986878653022210/
Start Small, Think Big: Episode 0008 - Show Notes
Summary
In this episode of the Start Small, Think Big podcast, the hosts discuss the human side of AI change management and the cultural shifts necessary for successful AI integration in organizations. They emphasize the importance of data, communication, and addressing fears surrounding AI adoption. The conversation highlights the evolving role of AI agents and the need for businesses, especially small ones, to embrace technology as a means to compete effectively. The hosts also stress the significance of fostering a culture of openness and innovation, as well as the risks associated with neglecting cultural readiness in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Keywords
AI, change management, cultural readiness, AI agents, data integration, small business, technology adoption, workforce training, Microsoft report, business strategy
Takeaways
- AI can improve efficiency and free up time for meaningful work.
- Cultural readiness is crucial for successful AI integration.
- Data is the foundation for effective AI implementation.
- Communication is key to addressing fears about AI.
- Small businesses can leverage AI to compete with larger firms.
- AI agents are evolving and will play a significant role in the future.
- Leaders must foster a culture of openness and innovation.
- Training and upskilling are essential for workforce adaptation.
- Ignoring AI trends can lead to business obsolescence.
- Collaboration between leadership and employees is vital for success.
Titles
- Navigating the AI Revolution: A Cultural Shift
- Empowering Teams with AI: The Future of Work
Sound Bites
- "Data is the key to everything in AI."
- "AI is coming whether you want it or not."
- "Leaders must lead by example in AI adoption."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Human Side of AI
01:49 Understanding AI Agents and Their Impact
06:24 The Importance of Upskilling in AI
11:31 Small Business Adoption of AI
15:34 Technology as the Great Equalizer
20:28 Cultural Readiness for AI
25:44 Bridging the Gap Between Technology and People
30:26 Aligning Leadership Vision with Frontline Reality
31:46 Addressing Fears Around AI Implementation
33:49 Creating a Safe Environment for Open Dialogue
35:20 The Importance of Communication in AI Adoption
38:12 Cultural Readiness for AI Transformation
41:17 Risks of Neglecting Cultural Readiness
44:32 The Consequences of Inaction in AI Adoption
48:48 Proactive Steps for AI Integration
52:13 Leadership's Role in Fostering Innovation
55:00 Call to Action for Engagement and Feedback
We build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.
Next Episode

Artificial Intelligence Snake Oil: What AI Can and Can't Do - Featuring Professor Arvind Narayanan | Episode #0010
Follow the SSTB Newsletter - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7305986878653022210/
Start Small, Think Big: Episode 0010 - Show Notes
Summary
In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, the hosts discuss the complexities and nuances of artificial intelligence, particularly focusing on the concept of 'AI snake oil'—the misleading promises made by some AI solutions. They explore current events in the tech industry, the ethical implications of AI in hiring practices, and the importance of human oversight in AI applications. The conversation also touches on the cultural shift regarding AI, including its recognition by influential figures like the Pope. The hosts emphasize the need for discernment in AI deployment, the human element in AI training, and the importance of asking the right questions when considering AI solutions.
Keywords
AI, artificial intelligence, ethics, hiring, employment, technology, generative AI, human oversight, predictive analytics, business decisions
Takeaways
- AI is a nuanced topic that requires careful consideration.
- Current events in tech highlight the rapid changes in the industry.
- Ethical implications of AI in hiring practices are significant.
- Human oversight is crucial in AI applications to avoid errors.
- Generative AI can be a powerful tool but comes with risks.
- Cultural shifts regarding AI are being recognized at high levels.
- Understanding AI's diverse applications is essential for businesses.
- The importance of discernment in AI deployment cannot be overstated.
- Asking the right questions is key to effective AI implementation.
- Failure can lead to valuable learning experiences in AI development.
Titles
- Unpacking AI Snake Oil: What You Need to Know
- The Ethics of AI: Navigating Hiring Practices
Sound Bites
- "AI is such a nuanced topic."
- "Trust but verify."
- "Don't be afraid to fail."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Snake Oil
01:26 The Impact of AI on Employment
04:32 Misrepresentation of AI Capabilities
08:06 The Importance of Human Oversight
11:42 Navigating Job Applications in the AI Era
15:13 Cultural Shifts in AI Acceptance
18:58 The Role of AI in Professional Development
22:29 The Pope and AI: A Unique Perspective
25:28 AI's Societal Impact and Recognition
27:24 Understanding AI Snake Oil
28:14 Diverse Nature of AI
30:12 Navigating AI Implementation
33:17 The Role of LLMs in Business
36:57 Predictive AI in High-Stakes Areas
40:30 Generative AI: Promise and Perils
47:45 Human Element in AI Training
52:45 The Importance of Discernment in AI Deployment
53:29 Internal Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
55:28 Assessing AI Effectiveness and Application
59:20 Steering AI Towards Positive Outcomes
01:03:27 Caution Against Extreme Opinions in AI
01:06:14 Identifying Hype and Misleading Claims
01:11:15 The Reality of Predictive Analytics and Data Capture
01:16:33 Final Thoughts on Responsible AI Implementation
We build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.
If you like this episode you’ll love
Episode Comments
Generate a badge
Get a badge for your website that links back to this episode
<a href="https://goodpods.com/podcasts/start-small-think-big-a-podcast-and-newsletter-that-guides-you-on-your-663117/building-your-ai-roadmap-from-vision-to-execution-episode-0009-90915739"> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/goodpods-images-bucket/badges/generic-badge-1.svg" alt="listen to building your ai roadmap: from vision to execution | episode #0009 on goodpods" style="width: 225px" /> </a>
Copy