Summary

In this episode, Andy interviews Dr. Christie Smith, a visionary leader and author, about her new book Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership. They discuss the disruptive impact of artificial intelligence and automation on various industries and how leaders can prepare for these changes. Christie shares insights on the unique challenges of modern leadership, as well as the importance of human-powered approaches. She emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptability, especially in a world increasingly reliant on technology. The conversation also touches on the concept of the Power Paradox, safeguarding connection in distributed work environments, and practical advice for parents on preparing their children for future work challenges.

Wondering how to lead and deliver in this time of significant disruption? This episode is for you!

Sound Bites

“Leadership isn’t always comfortable. In fact, it can be really hard… it does mean speaking out.”
“What’s unique about this time is the confluence of many things that leaders are having to face. It’s led to a war for skills instead of a war for talent.”
“This isn’t soft work... we’re going to be in an economic crisis because leaders are not in tune to the humans that are in their organizations.”
“100% of them said they knew they needed to do something... yet only 25% were even thinking of doing something about it.”
“The issue isn’t that AI is taking over. The issue is AI must, as a regulator, have human intelligence.”
“We need to move from emotional intelligence to emotional maturity.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:51 Start Of Interview
02:00 Christie's Background And Early Influences
04:45 The Unique Challenges Of Modern Leadership
06:27 The Concept Of The Unicorn Job
07:53 Defining Human Powered Leadership
11:05 The Role Of AI In The Future Of Work
15:50 The Importance Of Connection In The Workplace
19:44 Adversity And Innovation: Lessons From History
23:19 Strategies For Building Team Connection
26:02 Building Engagement Through Simple Actions
26:53 The Importance Of Personal Check-Ins
27:12 Adapting Leadership Styles For Better Connection
29:12 Understanding The Power Paradox
31:44 Cultivating Insatiable Curiosity
34:08 Preparing Kids For The Future Workplace
37:17 End Of Interview
37:39 Andy Comments After The Interview
41:21 Outtakes

Learn More

You can learn more about Christie and her work at ChristieSmith.phd/.

For more learning on this topic, check out:

Episode 437 with Nada Sanders about her book The Humachine.
Episode 382 with Hal Hershfield about balancing the now and the future.
Episode 329 with Deborah Westphal about preparing your career and your team for the future.

Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast!

Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Topics: AI, Automation, Technology, Leadership, Organizational Culture, Engagement, Remote Teams, Future Of Work, Emotional Intelligence, Workplace Culture, Team Connection, Continuous Learning

The following music was used for this episode:

Music: Echo by Alexander Nakarada
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Chillhouse by Frank Schroeter
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

PPP 454 | How AI is Changing Leadership (And What You Must Do Now), with Dr. Christie Smith

People and Projects Podcast: Project Management Podcast

PPP 454 | How AI is Changing Leadership (And What You Must Do Now), with Dr. Christie Smith