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When navigating the rapidly evolving world of AI, especially for practical applications like workflow automation, ROI, business use cases, and efficiency gains, it’s crucial for business leaders to get insights from a variety of sources. While Sam Altman, as CEO of OpenAI, is undoubtedly at the forefront of AI development, focusing solely on his perspective for actionable business strategies can be problematic for several reasons, especially in light of recent criticisms around transparency and profit motives.
Instead, a more balanced approach involves following individuals who are deeply immersed in the application of AI for businesses, bringing diverse and often more grounded perspectives. By diversifying your sources, you can build a more robust understanding of AI and develop strategies that deliver real ROI today.
Before exploring practical AI thought leaders to follow, it’s important to understand why relying solely on Sam Altman’s perspective can be limiting for businesses today. The following points highlight specific concerns around focus, transparency, and practical value that leaders should consider when looking to apply AI effectively.
Sam Altman’s primary public discourse often centers on Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and its long-term, transformative, even existential implications. While profound, this high-level vision can sometimes overshadow the immediate, practical steps businesses need to leverage AI for efficiency and specific use cases right now.
Many experts argue that this focus can distract from the real-world challenges and opportunities of current AI implementation, challenges leaders can’t afford to ignore if they want to stay competitive.
Recent reports like The OpenAI Files have raised significant questions about OpenAI’s governance, internal conflicts, and a perceived shift from its original non-profit, safety-first mission toward aggressive commercialization.
For business leaders seeking reliable, unbiased advice on AI, these concerns around leadership integrity and transparency can be a red flag. If the primary goal is maximizing profit or racing to AGI, then the emphasis on practical, safe, and easily deployable solutions for the average business might take a backseat.
Sam Altman leads a multi-billion-dollar company that needs to monetize its foundational AI models. While this drives innovation, it can also mean his public statements are framed to promote OpenAI’s offerings and strategic goals, rather than providing a neutral assessment of the broader AI landscape for diverse business needs. His insights, while powerful, are inherently aligned with OpenAI’s commercial success, which is why it’s essential for leaders to balance them with perspectives from other AI experts.
For businesses aiming to implement AI with specific ROI targets and workflow improvements, what’s needed are actionable blueprints, case studies, and practical guidance, not just visionary statements. Many professionals in the AI space are dedicated to this exact purpose, offering:
By diversifying your sources and focusing on AI thought leaders who are transparent, trusted, and deeply engaged in the practical application of AI for business value, you gain a more actionable understanding of how to effectively integrate AI into your operations. Embracing diverse AI thought leadership provides actionable insights and frameworks that directly support ROI and workflow improvements. This approach moves you beyond theory to realize tangible benefits AI can deliver right now.
Highly active on LinkedIn, and often on X/Twitter and YouTube, these experts consistently share insights rooted in practical business applications:
Pascal is extremely active on LinkedIn, sharing articles, original insights, and discussions about intelligent automation, AI’s impact on business, and implementation strategies. His content consistently focuses on ROI and efficiency gains.
Why follow: Consistent, practical advice on AI and automation for business leaders.
Presence: LinkedIn (very strong), often cited on X/Twitter
As Google’s Chief Decision Scientist, Cassie has an active, engaging presence, especially on LinkedIn and X. She breaks down complex AI concepts into understandable business applications, focusing on making data-driven decisions and achieving tangible results with AI.
Why follow: Clear, accessible explanations of how AI drives business value and decision-making.
Presence: LinkedIn, X/Twitter
A prolific creator on LinkedIn, YouTube, and his own blog, Bernard regularly publishes about AI’s impact on strategy, operations, and trends with a business-first perspective. His coverage includes ROI, efficiency, and practical examples.
Why follow: Broad, practical coverage of AI trends with a strong business focus.
Presence: LinkedIn (very active), YouTube, blog, X/Twitter
A renowned figure dedicated to democratizing AI education through DeepLearning.AI and Landing AI. Andrew is active on social media, sharing insights on practical AI applications, MLOps, and how businesses can implement AI effectively.
Why follow: Focused on making AI accessible and actionable for real business problems.
Presence: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Coursera
A prominent artificial intelligence expert and advisor who frequently shares insights on AI innovations, practical use cases, and strategies. Allie’s updates on LinkedIn provide quick, digestible information on how businesses can use AI today.
Why follow: Timely, practical updates on emerging AI trends and business relevance.
Presence: LinkedIn
By expanding your perspective beyond Altman, your organization gains exposure to a wider range of strategies grounded in real-world challenges. You’ll discover practical methodologies for ROI, workflow optimization, and risk management. You’ll also stay informed with unbiased assessments of tools and techniques across the AI ecosystem, enabling you to build a more resilient, effective AI strategy tailored to your business goals.
If you found these insights helpful, subscribe to our newsletter for more practical strategies, actionable AI trends, and exclusive advice delivered straight to your inbox.
Interested in taking your AI strategy to the next level? Book a meeting with me to discuss your AI project or explore our tailored AI Workshop, designed to help you identify opportunities, plan effective solutions, and achieve ROI with confidence.
When navigating the rapidly evolving world of AI, especially for practical applications like workflow automation, ROI, business use cases, and efficiency gains, it’s crucial for business leaders to get insights from a variety of sources. While Sam Altman, as CEO of OpenAI, is undoubtedly at the forefront of AI development, focusing solely on his perspective for actionable business strategies can be problematic for several reasons, especially in light of recent criticisms around transparency and profit motives.
Instead, a more balanced approach involves following individuals who are deeply immersed in the application of AI for businesses, bringing diverse and often more grounded perspectives. By diversifying your sources, you can build a more robust understanding of AI and develop strategies that deliver real ROI today.
Before exploring practical AI thought leaders to follow, it’s important to understand why relying solely on Sam Altman’s perspective can be limiting for businesses today. The following points highlight specific concerns around focus, transparency, and practical value that leaders should consider when looking to apply AI effectively.
Sam Altman’s primary public discourse often centers on Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and its long-term, transformative, even existential implications. While profound, this high-level vision can sometimes overshadow the immediate, practical steps businesses need to leverage AI for efficiency and specific use cases right now.
Many experts argue that this focus can distract from the real-world challenges and opportunities of current AI implementation, challenges leaders can’t afford to ignore if they want to stay competitive.
Recent reports like The OpenAI Files have raised significant questions about OpenAI’s governance, internal conflicts, and a perceived shift from its original non-profit, safety-first mission toward aggressive commercialization.
For business leaders seeking reliable, unbiased advice on AI, these concerns around leadership integrity and transparency can be a red flag. If the primary goal is maximizing profit or racing to AGI, then the emphasis on practical, safe, and easily deployable solutions for the average business might take a backseat.
Sam Altman leads a multi-billion-dollar company that needs to monetize its foundational AI models. While this drives innovation, it can also mean his public statements are framed to promote OpenAI’s offerings and strategic goals, rather than providing a neutral assessment of the broader AI landscape for diverse business needs. His insights, while powerful, are inherently aligned with OpenAI’s commercial success, which is why it’s essential for leaders to balance them with perspectives from other AI experts.
For businesses aiming to implement AI with specific ROI targets and workflow improvements, what’s needed are actionable blueprints, case studies, and practical guidance, not just visionary statements. Many professionals in the AI space are dedicated to this exact purpose, offering:
By diversifying your sources and focusing on AI thought leaders who are transparent, trusted, and deeply engaged in the practical application of AI for business value, you gain a more actionable understanding of how to effectively integrate AI into your operations. Embracing diverse AI thought leadership provides actionable insights and frameworks that directly support ROI and workflow improvements. This approach moves you beyond theory to realize tangible benefits AI can deliver right now.
Highly active on LinkedIn, and often on X/Twitter and YouTube, these experts consistently share insights rooted in practical business applications:
Pascal is extremely active on LinkedIn, sharing articles, original insights, and discussions about intelligent automation, AI’s impact on business, and implementation strategies. His content consistently focuses on ROI and efficiency gains.
Why follow: Consistent, practical advice on AI and automation for business leaders.
Presence: LinkedIn (very strong), often cited on X/Twitter
As Google’s Chief Decision Scientist, Cassie has an active, engaging presence, especially on LinkedIn and X. She breaks down complex AI concepts into understandable business applications, focusing on making data-driven decisions and achieving tangible results with AI.
Why follow: Clear, accessible explanations of how AI drives business value and decision-making.
Presence: LinkedIn, X/Twitter
A prolific creator on LinkedIn, YouTube, and his own blog, Bernard regularly publishes about AI’s impact on strategy, operations, and trends with a business-first perspective. His coverage includes ROI, efficiency, and practical examples.
Why follow: Broad, practical coverage of AI trends with a strong business focus.
Presence: LinkedIn (very active), YouTube, blog, X/Twitter
A renowned figure dedicated to democratizing AI education through DeepLearning.AI and Landing AI. Andrew is active on social media, sharing insights on practical AI applications, MLOps, and how businesses can implement AI effectively.
Why follow: Focused on making AI accessible and actionable for real business problems.
Presence: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Coursera
A prominent artificial intelligence expert and advisor who frequently shares insights on AI innovations, practical use cases, and strategies. Allie’s updates on LinkedIn provide quick, digestible information on how businesses can use AI today.
Why follow: Timely, practical updates on emerging AI trends and business relevance.
Presence: LinkedIn
By expanding your perspective beyond Altman, your organization gains exposure to a wider range of strategies grounded in real-world challenges. You’ll discover practical methodologies for ROI, workflow optimization, and risk management. You’ll also stay informed with unbiased assessments of tools and techniques across the AI ecosystem, enabling you to build a more resilient, effective AI strategy tailored to your business goals.
If you found these insights helpful, subscribe to our newsletter for more practical strategies, actionable AI trends, and exclusive advice delivered straight to your inbox.
Interested in taking your AI strategy to the next level? Book a meeting with me to discuss your AI project or explore our tailored AI Workshop, designed to help you identify opportunities, plan effective solutions, and achieve ROI with confidence.
