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As the holiday season approaches, gift-giving takes center stage. We turn to AI gift finders for inspiration, seeking that perfect present to express our love and appreciation. These tools, powered by algorithms, promise convenience and personalization, suggesting thoughtful ideas in mere seconds. Yet, amidst the efficiency and innovation, lies a poignant truth: the best Christmas or New Year gift isn’t something AI can deliver.
For centuries, holiday traditions have evolved with technological progress, from handwritten letters to digital greetings and now AI-generated holiday cards. Today, AI curates festive playlists, automates decorations, and even personalizes gift recommendations. As a keynote speaker on AI and innovation, I’m continually amazed by the possibilities these advancements unlock. But during a season built on connection and meaning, we must reflect on where innovation should stop and humanity must step in.
This reflection brings us to the essence of presence—real, screen-free, undistracted presence. No algorithm can replace the joy of gathering with loved ones, sharing stories by a crackling fire, or simply being there in the moment. Presence is a gift no AI can replicate, and its value grows in a world increasingly dominated by technology.
Consider the timeless magic of fire, a universal symbol of warmth and togetherness. Whether it’s the flicker of a fireplace or the glow of candles, fire draws us closer, asking for nothing more than our attention. It’s a reminder that the greatest moments of the holiday season are often the simplest—rooted in human connection, not innovation.
As you plan your celebrations, let AI help with the logistics. Use it to find thoughtful gifts, organize travel, or set the perfect ambiance. But when the time comes to gather with loved ones, step away from the screens. Sit by the fire, share laughter, and give the gift of undivided attention.
This holiday season, I invite you to rethink the role of technology in our lives—not just during the holidays but as a broader reflection of what matters most. AI is a remarkable tool, but its true value lies in empowering us to focus on what no machine can replicate: authentic human connection.
For event organizers and businesses, this message resonates far beyond the season. As a keynote speaker, I challenge audiences to embrace innovation where it matters while preserving the irreplaceable elements of our humanity. The holidays are a reminder that presence—not presents—will always be the greatest gift.
What will you prioritize this season? Unplugging may be the most revolutionary thing you do. Let’s remember that the magic of the holidays doesn’t come from what we give or receive but from how deeply we connect with the people around us. Wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth, wonder, and the joy of being truly present.
What Alex Can Do For You
Developed and led AI and Innovation strategy for multiple Fortune 100 companies, driving double-digit revenue growth.
Over 20 years of hands-on experience driving transformative business and technology solutions for global brands like Dell, Amgen, IBM, Pfizer, and Cisco.
Recognized by Forbes as “One of the World’s Top Experts on Innovation” and named a “Top AI Keynote Speaker to Watch.”
Frequent contributor to Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Fast Company, sharing actionable insights on AI strategy, the future of work, and innovation.
What sets Alex apart from other top AI speakers and innovation experts?
With AI and innovation elevated to buzzwords, there are plenty of speakers in this space. While many offer insightful keynotes, few can bring the depth of understanding, hands-on experience, and diverse viewpoints that Alex can. Alex doesn’t just talk about AI and innovation. He’s led it at Dell, Pfizer, and Cisco. He’s sat across from C-Suite execs to build global innovation plans. And he’s resonated with audiences at Google, AWS, Disney, Coca Cola, and dozens of other companies with keynotes tailored to their unique AI opportunities. A frequent contributor to Forbes, Inc., Entrepreneur, and Fast Company, Alex has been identified as a Top AI Voice on LinkedIn. He is also the author of a Wall Street Journal Bestseller, Fearless Innovation. Alex’s style is personable, approachable, and human. It’s never caught up in techspeak, or jargon so he resonates with any audience. Learn more about what sets Alex apart. Get in touch.
How does Alex customize keynotes and workshops?
No two organizations’ AI or innovation opportunities, or challenges, are the same. So canned keynotes or one-size-fits-all workshops just won’t do. Instead, Alex uses AI and data to tailor his engagements with available pre-event surveys. Analyzing responses, Alex customizes his content to address key needs and pain points, ensuring his message is meaningful. Speaking with leadership and other event stakeholders, Alex further customizes the content to ensure resonance and relevance, engaging audiences. Add it all up and you have keynotes and workshops that feel like they’ve been created for you—because they were. Learn more about Alex’s methodology. Get in touch.
What events and audiences are right for Alex?
With so much experience leading large-scale innovation initiatives, Alex is able to reach and resonate with any audience, no matter their knowledge level, industry, culture, or department. Captivating audiences from a live stage, or a virtual event, Alex is a fixture at C-Suite summits, innovation conferences, policy talks, offsites, and employee all hands meetings, plus governmental and academia events. An audience looking for fresh perspectives, real solutions, and custom content will find Alex’s keynotes engaging and actionable with ideas they can start applying right away. Curious about Alex’s recommendations for your event? Get in touch.
What companies and organizations have worked with Alex?
Alex’s roster of past clients, keynote engagements, and employers reads like a Wikipedia entry of the world’s most innovative, respected organizations. Disney, Coca Cola, ISO, AWS, Google, LEGO, CAT, IBM, Cisco, Dell, and dozens of other organizations have benefited from Alex’s keynotes, workshops, and strategic advisory services. As the former Managing Director of Innovation Strategy at Cisco, leader of global Innovation Centers and Smart City programs in 7 countries, and creator of innovation tracks for 3 Olympics, Alex’s real-world experience magnifies his impact upon any organization he partners with. Additionally, Alex has worked hands-on with governments, industry groups,startups and scaleups, plus large academic institutions, like the University of Delaware and The University of California, impacting 300,000+ students and thousands of faculty.
What topics does Alex Goryachev cover in keynotes and workshops?
While every keynote or workshop is customized to an event or audience, Alex is often requested by clients to bring a fresh perspective and real-world expertise on topics, including: AI’s impact on work and education Innovation in the age of AI Building buy-in and reducing hesitancy towards AI Policy and ethics related to AI C-Suite and leadership insights on AI Employee engagement in innovation The impact of AI on society Use cases, solutions, and strategies for AI and innovation Innovation culture and proven frameworks Reskilling and workforce preparedness Education and academia policy Government AI policy and legislation For additional topic ideas and recommendations for your event, get in touch.
These aren’t just better ways to use ChatGPT, or create short-term buzz. This is what the most influential organizations on earth use to shape the future.