"I am not at all a coder, and never in my wildest dreams thought that I would ever build an AI agent."
That's how Ashna Thakkar started our conversation on the Prompted podcast.
Behind her humility was passion, and she shared her journey from a non-coder to an AI innovator throughout the episode. Her experience is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity and determination.
An Unexpected Journey
Ashna’s story began in 2016, amidst the chaos and excitement of startup life. She fell in love with the fast paced environment and the constant problem solving it demanded.
"Even the smallest clarity makes a huge difference," she noted, highlighting a lesson that would guide her future endeavors. Her work with European startups and mission-driven founders laid the groundwork for her eventual leap into AI.
Her transition into AI was catalyzed by her work at an accelerator, where she supported startups in various capacities. It was here that she realized the immense potential of AI to empower founders. Despite not having a technical background, Ashna was drawn to the possibilities AI offered. Her collaboration with Suraj and the rest of the BonBillo team further fueled her interest.
Empowering Startups With AI
Ashna’s work with Bonbillo, a platform that supports startups, is an example of how AI can be harnessed to solve real world problems. She and her team have developed over 30 AI agents, each designed to address specific challenges faced by startups. "Start small, start from somewhere, and they would figure it out," she advised, encapsulating her approach to innovation.
These agents aren't just prompt hacks; they're research-backed tools that provide startups with the clarity they need to move forward. From customer acquisition to content strategy, Ashna’s agents cover a wide range of needs.
"They know that their product is amazing. They know their team is amazing. But they fail to convey [it]," she explained, addressing a common pitfall in startups. Her agents help bridge this gap, enabling founders to articulate their vision more effectively.
The Power of Feedback and Iteration
One of the most effective aspects of Ashna’s approach is her commitment to feedback and iteration. She actively seeks input from the startups she works with, using their insights to refine and improve her agents. This iterative process ensures that her tools remain relevant and effective.
"It's freeing up time for them, not wasting time for them," she emphasized, countering a common misconception about AI tools.
Ashna’s dedication to continuous improvement is evident in her latest project, the AEO advisor agent. This tool, designed to optimize content for search engines, was developed in just three days. The rapid turnaround is a testament to the efficiency of her process, which combines thorough research with agile development.
Taking the Leap From Using AI to Creating Agents
Ashna expressed a desire to see more founders embrace AI, not just as users but as builders. While many entrepreneurs are eager to leverage AI to solve their problems, few have taken the leap to create their own agents. Ashna sees this as an opportunity for growth and innovation.
Her story is a reminder that you don’t need to be a coder to make a significant impact in the world of AI. With curiosity, determination, and a willingness to learn, anyone can harness the power of AI to drive impact. Her journey from a non-coder to an AI innovator is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of starting small.
