DJDC#46: Beyond the Hype - AI Agents Explained
Details
Everyone is talking about AI agents.
Almost no one can clearly explain how they actually work.
This session will.
## Beyond the Hype - What exactly is an AI Agent?
## A practical, example-driven session with Steve Goldsmith
AI agents are everywhere in conversations right now — but what they actually *do* (and how to build one) remains unclear. This session cuts through the noise with a practical, example-driven walkthrough.
Data Journalism DC presenter Steve Goldsmith returns to walk us through the real mechanics of building an AI agent.
Rather than focusing on abstract theory, this session will demonstrate how agents actually work, what they can realistically do today, and the technical and editorial challenges involved in building them.
Participants will see a step-by-step walkthrough of writing a simple AI agent, while discussing the limitations, risks, and opportunities these systems present for reporting workflows.
What you’ll leave with:
- A clear mental model of how AI agents work
- A concrete example you can replicate
- A realistic understanding of limits and risks
- Ideas for applying agents in journalism workflows
## Who should attend
This session is designed for:
- Professionals across sectors who are tasked with assessing the potential role of AI agents in their organizations
- Developers working with media organizations
- Anyone interested in understanding how AI agents actually work in practice, not just in theory
No coding experience is required, but participants interested in experimenting with AI tools will benefit most.
## Format
- Short presentation
- Live demonstration / walkthrough
- Discussion and Q&A
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## About the speaker
Steve Goldsmith, CEO of GoldsmithAI LLC, previously presented to Data Journalism DC on emerging AI tools for journalism. In this follow-up session, he will focus on practical implementation and real-world constraints, helping journalists understand what it actually takes to build and use AI agents responsibly.