Jun 23, 2025

How to Build AI Strategy Without Herding Cats

In this insightful conversation, Nicole Castillo, Vice President of Strategic Products at News Corp, shares concrete strategies for building effective AI solutions without falling into common pitfalls. Known as the "Mary Poppins of Product," Nicole combines creativity, strategic clarity, and practical honesty to coordinate AI across diverse business units, emphasizing problem-solving over shiny AI solutions. Learn her methods for strategic connection and rigorous measurement to ensure your AI initiatives deliver real, measurable business impact.

Key Takeaways:

Prioritize problems first; AI should solve existing pain points, not create new ones.

Connect teams effectively to maximize knowledge-sharing and avoid duplication.

Rigorous measurement is critical to demonstrating genuine AI ROI.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to AI Strategy and Personal Journey
02:52 - The Role of AI in Media Companies
05:40 - Coordinating AI Strategy Across Diverse Business Units
08:14 - Facilitating Knowledge Sharing in Large Organizations
11:13 - Identifying and Prioritizing AI Use Cases
14:11 - Change Management in AI Adoption
17:50 - Building vs. Buying AI Solutions
21:35 - Navigating Out-of-the-Box Solutions
26:12 - Evaluating ROI in AI Implementations
29:56 - AI as a Creative Partner
36:18 - Practical AI Applications for Product Leaders
38:17 - Redefining Creativity in the Age of AI

🔔 For more valuable insights into AI strategy and implementation, subscribe to the Just Curious Newsletter:
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🔔 For more valuable insights into AI strategy and implementation, subscribe to the Just Curious Newsletter:
https://just-curious-ai.beehiiv.com/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=NICOLE_CASTILLO_AI_MEDIA

Nicole Castillo
Ratings
nicole-castillo

VP of Special Products @ News Corp

New York, NY

Strategic product leader known for blending AI, storytelling, and organizational intelligence to drive innovation. She builds inclusive teams and impactful tech with empathy

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