Newsletter
Newsletter

Hi, I’m Matt.
I help business leaders cut through AI hype and deliver what actually works

Matt Seitz competing in an Ironman endurance event.
Matt Seitz at the Wisconsin School of Business.
Matt Seitz crossing the finish line at an Ironman triathlon.

I’ve spent 30 years at the nexus of business and technology, from the PC, the Internet, the iPhone and now AI, which will be the biggest of all.  After leading Google’s $10+ billion retail search business, I’m now building the AI Hub for Business at the University of Wisconsin, helping current and future business leaders cut through the AI hype to what drives results.

I’ve completed four Ironman triathlons, and I bring that same mindset to AI: set big goals and achieve them through day-to-day excellence.

Whether I’m speaking to entry-level employees or the C-suite, I translate complex AI concepts into clear business terms.  Because AI’s real value isn’t in replacing humans, it’s in humans working with AI to drive impact.

Career Highlights

  • Led Google’s $10B+ U.S. Retail Search business
  • Pioneered Google’s retail analytics and global omnichannel programs
  • Delivered complex technology programs at McDonald’s and Abbott Laboratories
  • Launched AI Hub for Business at the University of Wisconsin
  • Executive Advisor, AI & eCommerce Keystone Consulting Group
  • Advised hundreds of companies on AI adoption and digital marketing
  • Regular keynote speaker for Fortune 500 companies
  • Author of weekly AI newsletter read by 2,000+ business professionals
  • Serves on advisory boards at Northwestern and the University of Wisconsin
  • Four-time Ironman triathlon finisher and fourteen-time marathoner

Background & Expertise

Bridging Tech & Business

Thirty years in technology, from programming to leading Google’s $10B+ retail search business. I’ve worked across supply chain, marketing and finance in retail, technology, and healthcare – from startups to Fortune 500s. I speak fluent “engineer” and “executive” and translate technology into real outcomes.

Analytics for Impact

At Google, I built omnichannel and retail analytics programs that helped retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy unlock tens of millions in sales.  I’ve advised hundreds of executives on turning insights into competitive advantage through better customer experience, operational efficiency and profit margins.   

Real-World AI Adoption

I first deployed machine learning technology in 2000, and have seen it evolve to include today’s generative and agentic AI.  I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, and I go beyond hype and demos to results that scale.  

Educator & Advisor

My superpower is making complex AI topics actionable.  My newsletter reaches 2,000+ business leaders every week.  I advise through the Keystone Group, serve on boards at Northwestern and UW, and speak regularly to AI to audiences from entry-level teams to C-suites.

My Philosophy

01

Human plus AI

The best AI tools make humans more effective instead of replacing them.  Lasting impact comes from human-AI partnership, which requires thoughtful design and effective change management. 

02

Start with the Problem

Too many teams adopt AI because it’s exciting, not because it solves real problems. I help you identify where AI can genuinely make a difference, and where there are better options.

03

Listen to Data

Everyone has an opinion about AI – some valuable and some not.  I use data to cut through the noise and understand what’s actually happening and what drives impact.

04

Think Big, Start Small

I’m drawn to big, audacious goals like Ironman and transforming education for AI. Achieving them requires day-to-day discipline and consistency.

05

Do it with Gusto

We spend a third of our lives at work.  We should enjoy it!  I bring enthusiasm, commitment and a bias for action. 

Outside of Work

When I’m not working in AI, you’ll find me pursuing the next challenge. At my core I’m an endurance athlete, having finished four Ironman triathlons and fourteen marathons, and with Boston hopefully next on the list.

My adventures have taken me across the globe.  A United million-miler, I’ve trekked through Australia’s outback, dove the Great Barrier reef, climbed Alaskan glaciers, solo skydived, safari-ied in Africa, toured the Formula 1 paddock and rang the NYSE closing bell.  

I love reading historical non-fiction as a break from today’s addictive media environment.  I’m working my way through every U.S. presidential biography: 15 down, 31 to go.

I live in Chicago with my wife Nadia and our three kids, two of whom are in college.  If you’re on the North side, you might spot me on the road or in Lake Michigan training for my next race.