The Retail Tales: Retail AI Podcast

The Retail Tales
The Retail Tales: Retail AI Podcast

The Retail Tales (TRT) exclusively focuses on exploring the possibilities at the intersection of Retail and AI. It covers wide array of topics on that intersection - including enterprise value and governance of AI for retailers, ethical and responsible application of AI to solve retail signature issues, opportunities and threats for AI in retail, and many more. The podcast is hosted by Saurabh Vijayvergia, who is an industry expert with 17+ years of experience in driving top-line growth, margin optimization, and business model transformation for retailers, using AI-first mindset.

  1. 16: Path to Data Readiness for AI & GenAI in Retail with Roland Ehigiamusoe

    OCT 14

    16: Path to Data Readiness for AI & GenAI in Retail with Roland Ehigiamusoe

    In this episode of ⁠The Retail Tales⁠, our host ⁠Saurabh Vijayvergia⁠ sits down with Roland Ehigiamusoe (a.k.a. Roe), a seasoned partner at Deloitte Consulting, to discuss the path to data readiness for AI and Generative AI in Retail. Roe shares his insights on how AI and Generative AI are transforming the retail industry, from personalized customer experiences to fraud detection. He then dives deep into the key components of data readiness that retailers must focus on, including data quality, integration, governance, architecture, and data literacy. Roe also addresses the common misconception that data maturity must be achieved sequentially before embarking on an AI initiative. He explains how retailers can start leveraging AI with their existing data, while simultaneously working to improve their data capabilities. This episode is a must-listen for retail leaders who are looking to embark on (or currently on) AI and Generative AI journeys for their own organizations. It offers a wealth of practical advice and lessons learned that can be directly utilized to become data ready for an organization's AI and Generative AI ambitions. Connect with Roland Ehigiamusoe on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/roland-ehi-392b36/ Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/⁠ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/⁠ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    36 min
  2. 15: AI-enabled Internal Transformation with Scott Holcomb

    SEP 30

    15: AI-enabled Internal Transformation with Scott Holcomb

    In this episode of ⁠The Retail Tales⁠, our host ⁠Saurabh Vijayvergia⁠ explores the journey of AI-enabled internal transformation for retail companies through a conversation with Scott Holcomb, a seasoned partner at Deloitte and the firm's Generative AI Transformation Leader. Scott starts with sharing his professional journey and where he draws his passion for consulting and advising clients from. With over 20 years of experience advising some of the biggest brands in retail and consumer products industry, Scott provides a unique perspective on the challenges and strategies involved in driving AI-enabled transformation within a large, decentralized organization like Deloitte. Scott and Saurabh talk about the thought process behind Deloitte's transformation efforts, discussing the importance of setting a clear ambition and well-communicated strategy. They explore the critical role of change management, user adoption, and addressing trust and security concerns when implementing these transformative capabilities. This conversation also sheds light on the importance of a company's "fail fast" mindset and the significance of making "no regrets" moves - such as getting the data estate in order - to lay the foundation for successful AI and Generative AI initiatives. This episode is a must-listen for retail leaders who are looking to embark on (or currently on) AI and Generative AI-driven transformation journeys for their own organizations. It offers a wealth of practical advice and lessons learned that can be directly applied to drive impact across the retail value chain. Connect with Scott Holcomb on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/holcomb-scott/⁠ Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/⁠ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/⁠ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    28 min
  3. 14: Top-5 Applications of Generative AI in Retail

    SEP 16

    14: Top-5 Applications of Generative AI in Retail

    In this episode of ⁠The Retail Tales⁠, host ⁠Saurabh Vijayvergia⁠ shares a personal shopping story that sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the retail landscape. As retailers face a rapidly evolving marketplace, this episode unpacks the top 5 game-changing applications of GenAI that are already making a difference. But it doesn’t stop there! Saurabh also introduces "GenAI Anchors," crucial points that every retail leader must understand before jumping into GenAI adoption, and reveals the three key value plays—Growth, Profitability, and Human Experience—that retail leaders should target in order to prioritize GenAI use cases for their companies. Whether you’re a retail executive, an AI enthusiast, or just curious about the future of retail, this episode offers actionable insights and strategic advice on how to leverage GenAI to not just optimize current operations but to reimagine the entire business model for a smarter, more resilient future. Tune in now to uncover how GenAI can be a catalyst for growth and innovation in the retail world and give retailers a competitive edge. Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/⁠ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/⁠ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    24 min
  4. 13: Enterprise Customer Ops with AI in Retail with Ievgen Miasushkin

    SEP 3

    13: Enterprise Customer Ops with AI in Retail with Ievgen Miasushkin

    In this episode of The Retail Tales, our host Saurabh Vijayvergia explores the transformative world of AI in retail with Ievgen Miasushkin, the founder and CEO of tur.ai. Ievgen shares his remarkable journey from a software engineer to the head of a groundbreaking AI automation startup that is reshaping how some of the Fortune 500 retail companies operate. Ievgen provides a unique perspective on how AI-driven automation is streamlining processes, enhancing customer service, and delivering tangible bottom-line benefits for retailers. From automating lead-to-quote processes to transforming cross-functional workflows, tur.ai seems to be setting new standards in the industry. Ievgen also gives a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how tur.ai helped Heineken revolutionize its cashback loyalty campaigns, achieving significant cost savings and improving customer satisfaction. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how AI is driving operational efficiencies and innovation in retail, as well as for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to learn from Ievgen's experience. Whether you're a retail executive, an AI enthusiast, or someone curious about the future of technology in retail, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Connect with Ievgen Miasushkin on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmyasushkin/ Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    30 min
  5. 12: Are Customers Price-Sensitive or Value-Conscious?

    AUG 19

    12: Are Customers Price-Sensitive or Value-Conscious?

    In this episode of The Retail Tales (TRT), our host Saurabh Vijayvergia dissects a thought-provoking CNN article titled "Customers Didn’t Stop Spending. Companies Stopped Serving.", published on Friday August 9th, 2024. He explores the article's applicability to the retail industry and highlights a crucial shift in consumer behavior—customers are prioritizing value over price. While exploring how and where this trend is affecting major retailers, Saurabh gives a real-life example of a struggling Fortune 500 retailer and compares their efforts and outcomes to that of Abercrombie & Fitch. He also shares his perspectives on the systemic challenges plaguing the retail industry—such as labor shortages, supply chain pressures, and outdated consumer engagement tactics—and how innovative companies are leveraging AI and GenAI to overcome these obstacles. Key Topics Discussed: Changing consumer spending: Value over price The three systemic challenges facing retailers today The role of AI and GenAI in transforming customer engagement Bonus: Saurabh also gives out a GenAI use case for retail companies to consider as the first step to start turning things around for themselves. Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/ CNN article Link: https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/09/business/consumer-spending-travel-value-nightcap/index.html DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    17 min
  6. 11: Nimble Principles of GenAI Governance

    JUL 22

    11: Nimble Principles of GenAI Governance

    In this episode of The Retail Tales, host Saurabh Vijayvergia takes us on a journey through one of his recent client workshop experiences, shedding light on the intricacies of GenAI governance. Drawing from real-world scenarios, Saurabh unpacks the nuances of the GenAI governance process and shares invaluable insights on how to make it more agile and effective. The episode is focused on: Understanding the typical steps of GenAI governance tailored for retail companies Learning about the four main roadblocks that can hinder GenAI initiatives. From stakeholder complexities to excessive administrative overhead, the episode uncovers what can slow down GenAI journey for a retail company Reviewing a list of 15 strategic and tactical principles - Nimble Principles - designed to enhance each step of the GenAI governance process and transform a seemingly simple governance process into a powerful engine for innovation and efficiency Bonus - A critical 16th principle is also highlighted in the episode. Whether you're grappling with too many stakeholders, unclear prioritization, gatekeeping by central GenAI teams, or excessive administrative overhead, this episode provides actionable strategies to overcome these challenges and accelerate path to value realization for your GenAI initiatives. Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The host may have taken creative liberties to make the stories and experiences more appealing to the listeners. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    28 min
  7. 10: CFO's Role in AI Transformation in Retail

    JUL 1

    10: CFO's Role in AI Transformation in Retail

    With this episode of The Retail Tales, host Saurabh Vijayvergia kicks off a mini-series within the podcast, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of different c-suite executives on the AI transformation journey of a retail company. This episode is focused on exploring the role and responsibilities of CFOs of retail companies. To keep things simpler, the episode is categorized in three sections: The first section focuses on how CFOs should prepare themselves to be the champions of AI transformation within the organization The second section brings out how CFOs could lead by example by transforming Finance function with AI and GenAI And the final section highlights CFO's responsibilities to act as a strategic catalyst in driving enterprise-wide transformation with AI and GenAI Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/ DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    25 min
  8. 09: GenAI in Fashion Retail with Karla Martin

    JUN 17

    09: GenAI in Fashion Retail with Karla Martin

    Our host, Saurabh Vijayvergia, is joined by fashion retail industry expert - Karla Martin. Karla is a true visionary who has guided CEOs of Fortune 500 companies through their most critical decisions in the past. She brings over 25 years of experience to the table, and she has held key roles at organizations such as Deloitte, Google, Booz Allen Hamilton, and even co-founded a tech incubator. Karla and Saurabh explore the world of Fashion Retail together with the lens of AI and Generative AI. They cover the following topics: Impacts on design exclusivity and originality in the world of GenAI Over-exaggerated and underrated trend in design Karla's hopes and wishes from AI and GenAI Connect with Karla Martin on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlamartin1/ Connect with Saurabh Vijayvergia on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svijayvergia/ Follow The Retail Tales on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retailaitales/ It is NOT a sponsored episode, but an attempt to explore the world of fashion retail in the age of Generative AI. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast episode is intended for general informational purposes only. By accessing and listening to this episode, you acknowledge that none of the information provided herein should be construed as advice from The Retail Tales, its individual author(s), hosts, or guests. It is not intended to replace independent research on any subject matter. Any mention of specific products or entities does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by The Retail Tales. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not constitute an endorsement by The Retail Tales or any associated entity. The Retail Tales waives all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or other damages that may result from an individual's use of, reference to, or reliance on this podcast or the information it contains.

    32 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Retail Tales (TRT) exclusively focuses on exploring the possibilities at the intersection of Retail and AI. It covers wide array of topics on that intersection - including enterprise value and governance of AI for retailers, ethical and responsible application of AI to solve retail signature issues, opportunities and threats for AI in retail, and many more. The podcast is hosted by Saurabh Vijayvergia, who is an industry expert with 17+ years of experience in driving top-line growth, margin optimization, and business model transformation for retailers, using AI-first mindset.

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