1084: Harnessing AI for positive impact in for-profit and non-profit settings AND knowing your capabilities w/ Sahal Laher

What if you could harness the power of AI to revolutionize business while keeping the human touch intact? Join us as we engage with Sahal Laher, a global business leader with over 25 years in digital transformation, who shares his remarkable journey from engineering to the C-suite and working with iconic brands like Estee Lauder and Brooks Brothers. Now, as the CEO of Stickball, Sahal is using his expertise to develop AI-driven platforms that promote financial literacy and workforce readiness, bridging societal gaps and making a genuine impact through business. 

Sahal's insights on AI's role as a strategic enabler in business are invaluable, as we explore how companies can leverage technology while maintaining their unique human elements. The conversation navigates through the complexities of AI governance and the challenges it presents across both for-profit and non-profit sectors. We also touch on the misconceptions surrounding the financial dynamics of non-profits, setting up for an eye-opening discussion on aligning AI initiatives with long-term goals and the pace of technological change.

Our episode takes a fascinating turn as we explore the art of mapping organizational capabilities for success. With discussions on capability heat maps and the importance of continuous recalibration, we touch on the need to align passion with capability for true success. Moreover, Sahal introduces Stickball’s innovative approach to personalized learning, using AI to create adaptable educational experiences tailored to individual learning styles.

ABOUT SAHAL

Sahal Laher is a global business leader with over 25 years of experience in driving digital transformation and direct-to-consumer growth for iconic brands including Estee Lauder Companies, Brooks Brothers, and Deloitte. As a seasoned board member and C-suite executive, he has successfully transitioned from Fortune 500 CXO roles to his current position as CEO of Stickball, where he leads go-to-market operations and develops AI-based technology platforms. His board experience spans both corporate and charitable organizations, including serving on the board of VeloCloud (acquired by VMware), and dedication to social impact through board roles with the Cole Strange Foundation and Wine to Water. Sahal brings a data-driven operational perspective that focuses on elevating customer engagement through analytics and AI, optimizing omni-channel experiences, and driving productivity across global operations. He has a proven track record of building high-performing, cross-functional teams. Sahal grew up Zimbabwe and now lives in New England as an avid Celtics and Patriots fan.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Stickball’s Website
• Connect with Sahal on LinkedIn