AI Agent & Copilot Podcast: AJ Ansari on Building Agents That Actually Deliver ROI

In this episode of the AI Agent & Copilot Podcast, John Siefert, CEO of Dynamic Communities and Cloud Wars, is joined by AJ Ansari, Microsoft MVP and member of the programming committee for the AI Agent & Copilot Summit. The conversation focuses on what enterprises should really be looking for as agentic AI adoption matures.

Key Takeaways

• Real-world stories over hype: As interest in agentic AI surges, Ansari notes a sharp increase in speaker submissions driven by practitioners who have moved beyond experimentation. The most valuable content, he explains, comes from organizations that have tried, failed, learned, and succeeded—particularly those using AI to tackle concrete business challenges like efficiency, productivity, and margin pressure. Those real-world stories are “worth the price of admission,” he says.

• Practical impact and ROI: While aspirational innovation has its place, conference attendees want takeaways they can actually apply. According to Ansari, the best sessions balance vision with execution, so attendees leave knowing not just what’s possible, but how their investment in agentic AI will translate into measurable business outcomes.

• Clarity before AI: One standout insight is Ansari’s “Clarity Method,” which urges organizations to step back before defaulting to AI. Not every problem requires agents or copilots. Some can be solved through process changes, automation, or application updates. AI should be applied deliberately, once it’s clear it’s the best solution, not just the newest one.

• What to expect at the AI Agent & Copilot Summit: The upcoming AI Agent & Copilot Summit emphasizes an intimate, peer-driven experience with a mix of main-stage discussions and deep-dive master classes. Expect practical guidance, candid discussions about risks and security, and a community willing to “pull back the curtain” and share lessons learned, because, as Ansari puts it, this isn’t a zero-sum game.

• Maximizing the conference experience: Ansari encourages attendees to plan ahead: identify must-see sessions, leave room for serendipity, and prioritize networking. “Come with an appetite to learn,” he advises, noting that some of the most valuable insights emerge from hallway conversations and peer exchanges.

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AI Agent & Copilot Summit is an AI-first event to define opportunities, impact, and outcomes with Microsoft Copilot and agents. Building on its 2025 success, the 2026 event takes place March 17-19 in San Diego. Get more details.