Applied Intelligence

Hosted by Imteaz Ahamed

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Dec 2025

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At the intersection of AI, people, and getting stuff done.

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21 recent

December 8, 2025Episode 191 hr 12 min

Why Data Clean Rooms Are the Future of CPG and Media Collaboration

What do data clean rooms really do—and why should every CPG leader care?In this episode of Applied Intelligence, I sit down with Puneet Gangrade—one of the leading voices in privacy-enhancing tech and data clean room adoption.We unpack how clean rooms are transforming everything from retail media to supply chain visibility, and why every brand, publisher, and platform needs a long-term clean room strategy.Puneet also breaks down:How clean rooms evolved from pharma to ad techThe hidden role of cryptography and trust engineeringNon-media use cases (QSR, loyalty, inventory, finance, CPG)Why the real challenge isn’t tech—it’s politics, intent, and trustWhat it takes to scale clean rooms (hint: org design and full-time owners)The future intersection of AI + privacy—and what to watch out forThis is a must-watch if you care about data-driven growth, privacy, and cross-party collaboration.Timestamps:00:00 – The Hidden Revolution Behind Data Clean Rooms02:10 – What Clean Rooms Really Do (And Why Everyone’s Confused)06:20 – Privacy Meets Personalization: The Cryptography Shift10:30 – How Amazon Quietly Opened the Clean Room Floodgates15:00 – The Wildest Use Cases: From QSRs to Airlines24:50 – Building Trust Without Sharing Data31:00 – The Question That Determines Every Clean Room’s Value35:00 – The Politics No One Talks About in Data Collaboration40:00 – Turning a Pilot Into a Scalable Clean Room Engine46:00 – Why Clean Rooms Are Replacing CDPs52:00 – The One Skill Every Modern Marketer Needs56:00 – How Reallocating Spend Drove 10% Extra Revenue1:02:00 – Why Every Cloud Platform Is Rushing to Build Its Own1:08:00 – The Tension Between AI and Privacy That Keeps Puneet Up1:16:00 – The Rule That Defines the Future of Data Collaboration🎙️ Guest: Puneet Gangrade , LiveRamp⁠My SocialWatch the Full episode ⁠here.

September 29, 20253 min

CPG Media’s AI Tipping Point: Strategy, Automation, and the Next 12 Months

I break down where retail media is headed—and why AI agents, owned ad accounts, and centralized data are now non-negotiables for CPG brands.

July 14, 2025Episode 181 hr 18 min

Why Most AI Strategies Fail—and What Execs Must Do Differently

Most execs operate on “vibe knowledge.” Here’s how to lead AI transformation with clarity and speed.What do executive decision-making, eCommerce innovation, and AI implementation all have in common? They’re often guided by gut feel—rather than data. In this episode of Applied Intelligence, Chris Perry (Chief Learning Officer, firstmovr) and Oskar Kaszubski (Chief Growth Officer, firstmovr) pull back the curtain on what’s really holding companies back from meaningful change.We go deep on:The difference between core knowledge vs. vibe knowledgeWhy retailers need to stop treating AI like it’s magicThe “Fourth Mover” strategy that may actually be smarter than being firstWhat makes AI operationally useful instead of just shinyHow retail media is breaking org structures—and what to do about itWhy incremental KPIs are killing transformationWhat we can all learn from eCommerce’s last 15 years (aka the “training ground”)Whether you’re a CPG exec, AI optimist, or digital transformation skeptic, this conversation is a must-listen.Timestamps00:00 – Intro03:12 – Retail media is an operating model, not a channel12:00 – Want change? Change what you measure17:18 – Vibe knowledge vs. core knowledge in the C-suite26:05 – The AI treadmill is speeding up33:00 – Why AI didn’t fail—you did53:51 – We don’t have 15 years to figure this out1:16:24 – The last 15 years was just training🎙️ Guests: Chris Perry & Oskar Kaszubski, firstmovrMy SocialWatch the Full episode here.

June 13, 2025Episode 1739 min

The AI Mistake That Killed a Healthcare Project with David Norris

In this episode of Applied Intelligence, I speak with David Norris, CEO of Infinitus Systems, about what happens when healthcare AI is “almost right”—and why that’s not good enough.We dive into how AI is helping burned-out doctors reclaim their time, how trust is built through background mode, and why some healthcare incumbents won’t survive the next 5 years.If you care about building ethical, scalable, human-centered AI—especially in high-stakes industries like health—this episode is a must-listen.00:00 – Welcome and intro to David Norris00:45 – Is AI burnout real in healthcare?02:00 – Automating the clinical inbox and freeing doctors’ time03:50 – Using ChatGPT to analyze job candidate feedback06:00 – Training AI to understand thousands of lab results08:00 – The difference between speed and impact in healthcare09:20 – “AI won’t replace doctors, but…”10:30 – The moment David knew AI was ready for medicine12:00 – When 80% accuracy is dangerous: A failed AI rollout14:00 – Why healthcare needs deterministic AI, not probabilistic guesses15:30 – What is background mode, and why it builds trust17:15 – Instant relief: Inbox load cut in half18:00 – Patients getting lab responses in minutes, not days20:00 – Making providers superhuman21:30 – What legacy healthcare companies don’t understand about AI24:00 – The UX pain of hospitals: Lag, delay, and context switching25:45 – “We eliminate clicks before they happen”27:00 – Real-time briefings for providers before they enter a room28:15 – Why selling AI to hospitals is brutally hard29:40 – Gaining trust in AI: Small pilots, not big promises30:30 – What regulation is helping—and what’s hurting innovation32:00 – The most important value: Transparency with patients33:00 – David’s story: Why he built this company34:15 – Dogs in the office and leadership lessons from cycling35:40 – The book he’s gifting: The Brothers (Van Halen bio)36:30 – Where to connect with David🎧 Watch the full episode also on Youtube → https://youtu.be/IyzrDSJhCD8My Social → https://linktr.ee/imteazGuest Social → https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidnorris430/

February 19, 2025Episode 1643 min

How AI is Revolutionizing CPG: Insights from Industry Leaders

In this episode, I sit down with Sri Rajagopalan to delve into the transformative power of AI in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. We talk about how AI is reshaping media buying, content creation, and talent development, while also addressing volume challenges and the need for responsible AI practices.What you’ll learn in this episode: Why generative AI is the next industrial revolution. How retail media and data clean rooms are driving efficiency. Why CPG companies need to rethink team structures for AI integration.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction: Welcome to the Applied Intelligence & CPG Podcast3:14 - AI and the Promise of Agentic Transformation6:13 - Absorbing E-commerce into Sales & Marketing: Pros & Cons12:46 - Why E-commerce Talent Faces Limited Career Paths18:42 - AI’s Role in Media Buying & Content Creation24:04 - How AI Can Solve Volume Challenges in the CPG Sector31:13 - Responsible AI and Governance in Media & Content38:40 - Structuring Teams for AI Success in CPG44:12 - Final Thoughts: The Future of AI in CPGFollow the Applied Intelligence Podcast for more insights on the intersection of technology and business!

February 7, 2025Episode 1538 min

Generative AI, Data Science & Leadership Insights with Tanika Gupta

Welcome to this insightful episode of the Applied Intelligence Podcast, where Imteaz Ahamed interviews the inspiring Tanika Gupta from Sigmoid. Join us as we explore the intersection of innovation, data, and leadership in the ever-evolving world of AI. 🎙️ In this episode, Tanika shares her unique perspectives on:✔️ Generative AI: Why it's revolutionizing the industry and how to harness its potential.✔️ Problem-Solving: Building impactful solutions for fraud detection, demand forecasting, and more.✔️ Leadership: Empowering teams and fostering inclusivity in the workplace.✔️ Life Lessons: Parallels between long-distance running and tackling complex challenges in data science. 🚀 Whether you're a tech enthusiast, business leader, or aspiring data scientist, this episode offers practical advice and fascinating stories to inspire your journey. 📖 Key Moments & Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Tanika Gupta02:00 – The 5 Chapters of Tanika’s Life and Career07:15 – Transformational Data Science Solutions: Insights from AmEx to Sigmoid14:00 – Bridging the Gap: Business Needs and Data Science Teams21:30 – Diversity in Tech: Building Inclusive Teams and Ethical AI28:00 – Generative AI: Real-World Use Cases and Challenges34:15 – Personal Productivity Tips: Running Marathons & Tackling Data Science40:00 – Advice for Aspiring Women in Data Science44:00 – Closing Thoughts and Where to Connect with Tanika 📲 Watch now to dive into Tanika’s journey and discover actionable strategies for leveraging AI and driving innovation! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more enriching conversations. 🔗 Learn more here: https://shorturl.at/CWnQS Tanika Gupta SocialLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanika-gupta-78242423/ My Social: linktr.ee/imteaz Watch the full Podccast: https://youtu.be/ine9SMgFgDE Listen to the full Podcast: https://shorturl.at/CWnQS Subscribe to my newsletter: appliedintelligence.beehiiv.com/subscribe Applied Intelligence:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@imteazLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/analytics/newsletter/urn:li:fsd_contentSeries:7058063714679152640/ #GenerativeAI #DataScience #Leadership #MachineLearning #Innovation #InclusionInTech #AI #Podcast #AppliedIntelligence #TechTalks #WomenInSTEM #ProductivityHacks #GenerativeAIApplications #ArtificialIntelligence

January 22, 2025Episode 141 hr 5 min

Why Most Digital Transformations Fail (And How To Fix Them) | Mark Adams

Welcome to the latest episode of the Applied Intelligence Podcast, where Imteaz Ahamed sits down with the incredible Mark Adams to explore the crossroads of innovation, leadership, and human culture. 🎙️ In this episode, Mark shares thought-provoking insights on:✔️ Digital Transformation: Why culture matters more than technology in driving change.✔️ ADHD as a Superpower: How it fuels creativity, opportunity spotting, and innovation.✔️ Human Needs: The key to building meaningful products and brands that resonate.✔️ Leadership Lessons: Strategies for navigating the modern state of nature in business. 🚀 Whether you're a business leader, marketer, or innovator, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable strategies to inspire your journey. 📖 Key Moments & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Mark Adams02:10 – The 5 Chapters of Mark's Life: From ADHD to Innovation10:35 – "Making it up as you go": Usher’s liberating insight16:50 – Human Needs as the Foundation of Innovation22:30 – Why Digital Transformation is Cultural Transformation30:12 – ADHD as a Superpower: Spotting Breaks in the Game38:45 – Productivity Tips for ADHD and Contracting with Yourself45:20 – Social Media’s Evolution and the Role of AI52:15 – Leadership Lessons for Driving Transformation1:03:00 – Democratizing Digitization: How Companies Can Innovate Inclusively1:10:50 – Final Thoughts: The Power of Networks and Empathy 📲 Watch now and explore Mark’s unique take on leadership, empathy, and transformation! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more engaging discussions. 🔗 Learn more here: youtu.be/uR31HGLrKMM Mark Adam Social Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/markadams-topvoice/ My Social: linktr.ee/imteaz Watch the full Podccast:https: www.youtu.be/uR31HGLrKMM Listen to the full Podcast: Subscribe to my newsletter: appliedintelligence.beehiiv.com/sub

October 15, 2024Episode 1341 min

Is Disruption Always the Answer? The Future of Brands and AI

In this exciting episode of Applied Intelligence, host Imteaz Ahamed is joined by tech innovator David Shing. Together, they dive deep into career-changing moments, the adoption of groundbreaking technology like AI, and the creative strategies that drive today’s digital transformation. 🚀 Key Topics Covered: David’s 5-Chapter Life Story (includes a near-death experience!) Tech Trends: What’s hot and what’s not How to balance creativity with data-driven decisions Building a career that spans multiple disciplines (you are the polymath!) 🎧 Timestamps: 00:00:18 – Welcome and introduction to David Shing 00:01:09 – Chapter 1: David’s early life and the significance of number 8. 00:01:26 – Chapter 2: The car accident that shaped his resilience. 00:01:51 – Chapter 3: The shift in graphic design and his breakthrough at AOL Europe. 00:03:43 – Predicting technology trends: Why it's harder than ever. 00:04:57 – Metaverse vs. ChatGPT: Key differences in tech adoption. 00:07:16 – How to identify trends before they explode. 00:08:47 – Creativity vs. data: The art of balancing the two. 00:14:07 – You don’t own your brand: Democratizing brand identity. 00:16:22 – Being a polymath: Why it’s crucial in today’s world. 00:19:10 – David’s best advice for managing career pivots. 💥 Hit play NOW before everyone else gets the jump on these insights! Watch the full Podccast: https://youtu.be/GOmDB2Y9cTU Subscribe to my newsletter: appliedintelligence.beehiiv.com/subscribe My Social: linktr.ee/imteaz David Shingy Social Website: www.shingy.com/ Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/shingy/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/shingerviews Facebook: www.facebook.com/theshingy Instagram: www.instagram.com/davidshingy/

August 29, 202451 min

Navigating the Challenges of AI and Recruitment

Jonathan Taylor Miller, Director of Taylor-Miller Ltd., delves into his journey as the owner of a recruitment firm, stressing the importance of cultural fit and the limitations of AI in the hiring process. He highlights the significance of understanding company culture, maintaining authenticity, and advocating for diversity and inclusion. Jonathan emphasizes the gap between companies' diversity claims and their actual practices, calling for a reform in hiring managers' attitudes and behaviors. He believes that evolution, valuing time, and authenticity are key to attracting the right talent and driving change. Key Takeaways: Cultural fit is vital for a candidate's success. AI can't replace the value of human connections in recruitment. Understanding company culture is essential when placing candidates. Authenticity and focusing on quality build a strong reputation. True diversity in hiring requires fundamental changes in company practices. Companies must value time, evolve, and be authentic to drive change. Chapters: 00:00 - Sociology degree led to unfulfilling HR career. 05:32 - Pushing through exhaustion, realizing inner strength. 08:12 - Building a fulfilling life requires hard work. 10:10 - AI streamlines recruitment for small firms. 16:02 - Business success hinges on strong culture. 16:48 - Networking defines business culture understanding. 21:34 - Recruitment focused on numbers, not value. 24:09 - Discrepancy between company talk and actions on diversity. 28:29 - Need for fundamental changes in hiring practices. 29:42 - Recruiting outside CPG for innovation. 34:39 - Disengaged workforce and talent loss in big CPGs. 38:23 - Companies retracting on remote work trend. 39:27 - Importance of in-person interaction for career success. 43:26 - Dismissive attitudes toward progress in life. 46:22 - Adaptability and authenticity are key for success. 49:51 - Take action without overthinking—just do it. Watch the full Podcast: https://youtu.be/Yvnu3XfUW_U Subscribe to my newsletter: https://lnkd.in/e5VtgV2f My Social: https://linktr.ee/imteaz Jonathan Taylor-Mille'r Socials: Linkedin: / jonathantaylormiller Instagram: / jtaylormillerltd Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jtaylormiller... Website: https://taylormiller.co.uk/

June 12, 2024Episode 1151 min

The Evolution of Leadership and Innovation with Steve Dennis

Join Imteaz Ahamed as he delves into the profound insights and experiences of Steve Dennis, a distinguished figure in the realms of retail and leadership. In this episode of Applied Intelligence, Steve shares his journey through personal challenges and professional triumphs, discussing his thoughts on transformational leadership and the necessity for innovation in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Dive into a discussion that spans the intricacies of corporate leadership, the impact of technological disruption, and the profound personal growth that defines a true leader. Timestamps & Main Ideas: 00:36 - Steve's early life challenges and career beginnings. 01:05 - Career exploration and finding personal drive. 03:10 - The importance of extracurricular activities and gaining affirmation. 05:20 - Lessons from leadership roles in traditional retail giants. 07:09 - Adapting to the new world order and the impact of digital transformation. 10:44 - The seven mind leaps for future leadership success. 13:30 - The challenge of communicating complex ideas in traditional settings. 16:50 - Personal revelations and the decision to leave corporate leadership. 19:17 - Balancing rapid transformation and strategic development. 27:44 - Encouraging innovation within a corporate structure. 41:42 - The importance of customer focus and understanding market segments. 52:28 - Personal productivity hacks and the influence of mindset on leadership. Watch the full Podcast: https://youtu.be/teXi3kIuPbk Subscribe to my newsletter: https://lnkd.in/e5VtgV2f My Social: https://linktr.ee/imteaz Steve Dennis Social: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpdennis/ Website: https://stevenpdennis.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpdennis/