In a recent panel discussion at a Fortune Brainstorm AI event, two tech CEOs, Dennis Woodside of Freshworks and Sukhinder Singh Cassidy of Xero, addressed the disconnect between the current AI narrative and the actual needs of businesses. Woodside highlighted that many of Freshworks' 75,000 customers, including Vermeer, a century-old Iowa company, are primarily focused on tangible business growth and customer service rather than the latest AI advancements often touted in Silicon Valley. He emphasized that these customers still prefer human involvement in their operations over autonomous AI solutions. Sukhinder Singh Cassidy echoed Woodside's sentiments, indicating that small businesses are experiencing what she described as 'buzzword fatigue' with AI. According to her, small business owners are confused and want clarity regarding AI's practical applications. Instead of being intrigued by AI’s potential, they express concerns about its implications, wanting to understand how AI can be used effectively in their operations instead of free-floating AI tools that might compromise their data's security and integrity. The discussion revealed that cash flow management is a top priority for these small business customers, who are not seeking AI technologies just for the sake of advancement. Instead of relying on chatbots or fully AI-operated systems, businesses desire tools that integrate seamlessly into their existing frameworks, providing them with control and transparency, including clear audit trails for their operations. Overall, the executives conveyed a clear message: the technological excitement around AI in high-tech sectors does not align with the practical needs of small and medium-sized businesses. Many companies remain reluctant to adopt AI due to past experiences with over-hyped technologies that ultimately did not deliver the promised benefits. Companies like Freshworks and Xero are focusing on developing solutions that enhance employee productivity without compromising their operational integrity, reflecting a growing demand for practical technology solutions grounded in real-world needs rather than hype.