The Perception vs. Reality of AI Today

Presented by Brandon Viveiros, Chief Commerce Officer at AdFury

Unpacking the hype versus the truth — what AI really can (and can’t) do for marketers right now.

AI has been hyped as the answer to everything in marketing, but the truth is far more nuanced. In this session, we’ll unpack what AI can do well today, where it still falls short, and why the role of the marketer is more important than ever. We’ll explore the gap between the “magic button” perception and the reality that AI requires patience, technical understanding, and human guidance to be effective. This talk aims to cut through the hype and remind the audience that while AI is powerful, they are still the ones in control.

Goal: Inspire and equip marketers to understand what AI really can (and can’t) do today, while helping them feel more confident and less overwhelmed.

RSVP Here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/october-programthe-perception-vs-reality-of-ai-today

About Brandon:

Brandon Viveiros is the Chief Commerce Officer at AdFury, an AI-native ad-tech platform transforming how brands and agencies create ads and images for retail media. With nearly 30 years of experience across marketing, technology, and commerce, Brandon has built his career at the intersection of creativity and innovation. At Saatchi & Saatchi X, he led digital and retail media practices for global CPG leaders, including Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, and Olay, driving growth across Walmart, Sam’s Club, and other major retailers.

Earlier, at The Marketing Arm, Brandon advanced digital engagement and promotions for brands such as Nintendo, Hilton, AT&T, State Farm, and the U.S. Air Force, creating experiences that connected technology and consumer behavior. At Nokia, he helped bring mobile innovation and consumer campaigns to life during a pivotal period of transformation in the mobile industry.

Brandon has also served as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Arkansas, where he taught media planning and strategy, bridging academic learning with industry practice. Most recently, he launched the Retail Media Vibes podcast, creating a new platform for conversations that explore the current topics shaping the future of retail media. His perspective is clear: while technology will continue to evolve, the true drivers of marketing success remain strategy, creativity, and human connection.