In Episode 185 of Shape of Tomorrow, I explore the growing disconnect between the AI conversations happening at conferences and the realities organizations are facing inside boardrooms and budget meetings. I break down how I think leaders should approach AI roadmaps when budgets are constrained, pressure is high, and credibility matters more than hype.

I walk through a practical framework focused on small, measurable experiments that can prove value within 90 days, rather than massive multi-year transformation initiatives. Along the way, I discuss KPI-driven thinking, sponsorship, data readiness, pilot design, and how organizations can build long-term AI capability through disciplined experimentation and strategic focus.