When One Door Closes, Build an Agent: Vikram Ekambaram’s Journey From Job Loss to Innovation

When I spoke with Vikram Ekambaram for the Prompted: Builder Stories podcast, I was struck by his journey from redundancy to innovation. His story is a testament to the transformative power of AI and the resilience of the human spirit. As someone deeply embedded in the AI community, Vikram's insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to harness the potential of AI agents.

A New Beginning

Vikram's journey began with a familiar narrative: "I think like every good origin story, it all started with one door closing and then another door opening." After his role at Gong was made redundant, Vikram found himself at a crossroads. With over 20 years of experience in go-to-market roles at companies like Oracle, Microsoft, and Salesforce, he faced a choice. He could return to a traditional role or venture into the burgeoning world of AI.

Vikram saw an opportunity in Gen AI, a technology that allowed him to make a difference without needing a technical co-founder. "Gen AI was the first thing where I could go do something myself and make a difference," he explained.

This accessibility was a game-changer, enabling him to leverage his extensive sales and strategy experience in a new and exciting way.

The First Steps

Vikram's initial foray into AI was not without challenges. He started his own LLC, VYCERAL Solutions, the day he was let go, determined to explore the possibilities of AI. His first attempts with chatGPT were frustrating due to data access limitations. However, this led him to explore agent building platforms, which were still in their infancy.

His breakthrough came with the creation of a DiSC profile agent on Agent.ai. This agent could analyze LinkedIn profiles to provide personality insights, a tool that resonated with his sales background.

"It's all about the data. If I have the data, I could probably build an agent on top of it to do whatever your process is," Vikram explained. This understanding of data's critical role in AI development became a cornerstone of his approach.

Building a Community

Vikram's journey was not just about building agents; it was about building a community. He became a prolific contributor to forums and started a YouTube channel to share his knowledge. His willingness to educate others stemmed from a belief that teaching is the best way to learn. "The best student is the best teacher," he told me, highlighting his commitment to community-driven learning.

His efforts paid off. Vikram's agents gained popularity, and his insights helped others navigate the complexities of AI. He became a pivotal figure in the Agent.ai community, known for his practical advice and innovative solutions.

The Multi-Agent Future

Vikram shared his vision for the future of AI. "The future to me is multi-agentic," he predicted. He sees a world where multiple agents work together across platforms to solve complex business problems. This vision is already taking shape in his consultancy where he orchestrates agents to optimize business processes.

One of his projects involved using AI to enhance lead generation for a B2B e-commerce client. By integrating multiple agents and tools, Vikram automated the process of identifying high-fit prospects, crafting personalized outreach, and even creating customized landing pages. This multi-agent approach not only saved time but also improved response rates, demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI.

Lessons for Aspiring Builders

Vikram's journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to explore AI. He advises starting with a problem you understand deeply. "Solve a problem that you have yourself," he suggests. This personal connection to the problem ensures a genuine understanding of the domain and a higher likelihood of success.

He also emphasizes the importance of experimentation and iteration. "It's okay to fail. You will fail," Vikram reassures. This mindset of resilience and adaptability is crucial in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

A Reflective Conclusion

Reflecting on my conversation with Vikram, I was inspired by his ability to see possibilities where others see obstacles. His journey from redundancy to innovation is a powerful reminder that change often brings opportunity. For those of us in the AI community, Vikram's story is a call to action: to explore, to build, and to transform the world around us.

As I wrapped up our discussion, Vikram left me with a thought that encapsulates his philosophy: "At some point, your brain changes, where you start seeing agents in everything you do." This shift in perspective is the hallmark of an innovator, someone who sees not just what is, but what could be.

For readers and listeners alike, Vikram's journey is an invitation to imagine what you could build. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a curious newcomer, the world of AI is ripe with potential. All it takes is the courage to open new doors.