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- AI Agents, Subscription Growth & The Future of Product | Priya
AI is changing how businesses operate, and according to Priya Lakshminarayanan, the biggest opportunity isn't simply using AI to analyze information. It’s using AI to take action.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Priya Lakshminarayanan, Chief Product Officer at Recurly, to explore AI-powered product development, agentic workflows, subscription growth, and the future of business automation.Priya shares lessons from her career across Microsoft, PayPal, Meta, Brex, and Recurly, along with how her team is using AI to help subscription businesses optimize revenue and automate growth.She also explains why businesses need to balance AI automation with customer trust, transparency, and strong controls.In this episode, we discuss:◼️ Priya’s career journey from engineering to product leadership◼️ How AI is transforming subscription management and recurring billing◼️ Recurly Compass and AI-powered agentic workflows◼️ How businesses can use AI for revenue optimization◼️ Using AI to build and prototype products faster◼️ How natural language is making technology more accessible◼️ AI-powered personalization and content optimization◼️ Why businesses should focus on data they already have◼️ Balancing AI automation with customer trust and control◼️ The future of AI in product development and business growthChapters00:00 Welcome to the AI Accelerator Podcast00:20 Introducing Priya Lakshminarayanan & Recurly01:23 Priya’s journey from Microsoft to Recurly03:40 AI experimentation at Brex05:00 AI and subscription growth at Recurly08:00 Building AI-powered agentic workflows11:00 AI, product development, and customer outcomes15:00 AI-powered personalization and content creation17:00 Building with AI and natural language19:00 The future of AI and business innovation21:30 Finding opportunities in your business data22:00 AI, automation, trust, and controlKey Learnings✔ AI should solve real business problems, not be adopted simply for the sake of using AI.✔ Agentic workflows can move AI from analysis to action.✔ Businesses should look closely at the data they already have.✔ AI can dramatically accelerate product development and experimentation.✔ Natural language is making advanced technology accessible to more people.✔ Customer trust, auditability, and control are essential for responsible AI adoption.✔ AI can help subscription businesses improve revenue and customer experiences.💬 Priya’s Key Insights“Set subscription growth on autopilot.”“Not doing AI for AI’s sake.”“Trust in all of this is a big thing.”“Look deep into what data you have access to.”Follow Priya LakshminarayananWebsite: https://www.recurly.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prialFollow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone / Text / WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577823 min - Teaching, Teamwork & AI Leadership | Scott Andersen | AI Accelerator Podcast
Artificial intelligence is changing the way organizations work, but according to Scott Andersen, technology alone isn't enough. The organizations that thrive will be the ones that build strong teams, create meaningful learning environments, and empower every individual to contribute.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Scott Andersen, architect, author, speaker, longtime Microsoft technology leader, and former elementary school teacher. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience spanning education, engineering, enterprise architecture, consulting, and leadership, Scott shares why the best AI strategies begin with people—not technology.From leading global engineering teams and advising CIOs around the world to helping organizations embrace AI responsibly, Scott explains how his years in the classroom continue to shape the way he approaches innovation, collaboration, and leadership.At the heart of Scott's philosophy is one simple belief:"Everyone has something to say, and everyone has something to contribute."In this episode, Scott reveals:◼️ Why great AI adoption starts with great leadership◼️ How teaching shaped his approach to technology and innovation◼️ Why customer engagement is the foundation of successful architecture◼️ The four leadership lessons that have guided his entire career◼️ Why strong teams consistently outperform individual brilliance◼️ How architects help organizations solve business problems—not just technical ones◼️ The importance of designing AI around people instead of processes◼️ Why curiosity and lifelong learning are essential in the AI era◼️ Lessons from working with CIOs and enterprise leaders around the world◼️ How organizations can successfully lead digital transformation◼️ Why everyone on a team deserves a voice◼️ The future of AI, leadership, and enterprise architecture◼️ How leaders can create cultures where innovation naturally thrives◼️ Why business success begins with listening before building◼️ Scott's advice for navigating the next generation of AI transformationChapters00:00 Welcome to the AI Accelerator Podcast00:30 Introducing Scott Andersen02:00 From Elementary School Teacher to Technology Leader05:30 The Four Lessons That Shaped Scott's Career09:00 Why Customer Engagement Matters12:00 Building High-Performing Teams15:30 Leading Global Engineering Organizations19:00 AI, Enterprise Architecture & Digital Transformation23:00 Designing Human-Centered AI Solutions26:00 Leadership Lessons for the AI Era29:00 Helping Organizations Navigate Change32:00 The Future of AI and Enterprise Innovation35:00 Final ThoughtsKey Learnings✔ Great technology starts with understanding people✔ Strong teams consistently outperform individual talent✔ AI should solve business problems—not create new complexity✔ Leadership is about creating environments where people can succeed✔ Customer engagement should drive technology decisions✔ Every team member has valuable perspectives to contribute✔ Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly changing AI landscape✔ Enterprise architecture is ultimately about enabling better business outcomes✔ Human-centered leadership remains critical as AI evolves✔ Organizations that embrace collaboration adapt faster to change💬 Scott's Most Powerful Quotes"Learning is tied to the interest people have in what you are saying.""Teams always win over individual excellence.""Everyone has something to say, and everyone has something to contribute.""If you never try, you'll never discover what you're capable of.""The best solutions begin with understanding your customer."About Scott AndersenScott Andersen is an author, speaker, architect, and longtime technology leader with more than 25 years of experience spanning education, enterprise architecture, consulting, engineering, and digital transformation.Beginning his career as an elementary school teacher, Scott developed a people-first leadership philosophy that continues to influence his work today. Throughout his career, he has worked with CIOs, enterprise customers, product groups, and engineering organizations around the world, helping organizations navigate emerging technologies and build high-performing teams.His unique combination of educator, architect, consultant, and thought leader gives him a practical perspective on how organizations can successfully adopt AI while keeping people at the center of innovation.Follow Scott AndersenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottan/Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/Follow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone / Text / WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577828 min - The Indiana Jones of AI? How Purpose Beats Hype in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Evan Kubicek | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming every industry, but according to Evan Kubicek, organizations that succeed won't be the ones chasing every new AI tool. They'll be the ones that stay grounded in real business problems, real customer needs, and real human impact.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Evan Kubicek, Fractional Chief Revenue Officer at AiPRL Assist, Senior Faculty of Marketing, Sales, and Entrepreneurship at Eastern Illinois University, and a leader often described as the "Indiana Jones of Social Entrepreneurship."Drawing from his unique background in startups, higher education, international development, and AI, Evan shares how businesses can move beyond AI experimentation to build practical solutions that improve customer experience, employee productivity, and organizational performance.From helping retailers eliminate disconnected customer experiences to discussing why higher education must rethink learning in the AI era, Evan explains why the future belongs to leaders who combine technological innovation with human-centered leadership.At the heart of Evan's philosophy is one simple idea:"Ground AI in reality."In this episode, Evan reveals:◼️ Why businesses should solve real problems before adopting AI◼️ How emotionally intelligent AI improves customer experience◼️ Why disconnected business systems create poor customer service◼️ How AI can unify communication across email, phone, chat, and social media◼️ Why API integrations matter more than flashy AI demos◼️ How retailers can create seamless customer journeys◼️ Why specialized AI agents outperform one giant AI model◼️ The importance of grounding AI in real business workflows◼️ How organizations can build meaningful social impact through business◼️ Why company values must translate into everyday decisions◼️ How AI is reshaping higher education◼️ Why educators should raise expectations—not lower them—with AI◼️ How AI helps students bridge the gap between theory and real-world business◼️ Why leaders shouldn't chase every AI trend◼️ How businesses can move from AI hype to purposeful executionKey Learnings✔ AI succeeds when it's built around solving real business problems✔ Great customer experience depends on connected data, not disconnected systems✔ AI should remove friction for both customers and employees✔ Specialized AI agents often outperform general-purpose AI for business workflows✔ API integrations are the foundation of practical enterprise AI✔ Organizations should define clear values before pursuing social impact✔ AI can improve education by raising expectations instead of lowering them✔ Students should learn how to collaborate with AI—not avoid it✔ Businesses should focus on meaningful implementation rather than chasing every AI trend✔ Human-centered leadership remains essential as AI capabilities continue to evolve💬 Evan's Most Powerful Quotes"Ground AI in reality.""The experience on that trail matters.""It's not intended to replace systems. It's intended to connect them.""People don't want to repeat themselves.""I've actually raised the bar on my expectations rather than lowering it.""You can't afford to not be doing something.""Everything is AI… but you still need to know where to focus.""The more people share their successes and failures, the faster everyone learns."Follow Evan KubicekLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evankubicekWebsite: https://www.aiprlassist.comFollow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone / Text / WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577830 min - Jump in the Pool: Why Leaders Can’t Afford to Sit on the AI Sidelines -Andrew Metz
AI is changing how organizations operate, how teams work, and how leaders navigate uncertainty. But according to Andrew Metz, leaders don’t need to become AI experts before they start experimenting.
They simply need to “jump in the pool.”In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Andrew Metz, VP of Sales at Zywave, speaker, and leadership expert with more than 17 years of experience building high-performing sales teams and developing hundreds of sales professionals and leaders.Having spent his career helping lead Zywave through six CEOs, three private equity transitions, and the growth of a SaaS company from approximately 100 to 1,000 employees, Andrew brings a unique perspective on leadership, culture, trust, and navigating constant change.From personally experimenting with AI tools to encouraging non-technical professionals to build confidence through hands-on experience, Andrew explains why leaders can no longer afford to watch the AI revolution from the sidelines.He also explores one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding AI: that the technology will simply replace people.Instead, Andrew believes AI creates an opportunity to combine analytical capabilities with the creativity, empathy, anticipation, and human connection that great leadership requires.At the heart of Andrew’s approach is one powerful piece of advice:“Jump in the pool. No one knows AI.”In this episode, Andrew reveals:◼️ Why leaders should lead by example when adopting AI◼️ Why no one needs to be an AI expert before getting started◼️ How personally experimenting with AI builds leadership confidence◼️ Why AI is changing too quickly to wait for the perfect strategy◼️ How leaders can use AI to handle more analytical and data-driven work◼️ Why AI can create more space for creativity and strategic thinking◼️ The importance of combining left-brain and right-brain capabilities◼️ How non-technical professionals can build confidence using AI◼️ Why early adopters and internal champions are critical to AI adoption◼️ How sharing AI best practices can ignite experimentation across an organization◼️ Why hands-on experimentation is one of the fastest ways to overcome AI intimidation◼️ How leaders can navigate private equity ownership transitions◼️ Why protecting organizational culture matters during periods of change◼️ The role of trust and human connection in high-performing teams◼️ How leaders can balance empathy and accountabilityChapters00:17 Introducing Andrew Metz00:40 Andrew’s Leadership & Sales Journey05:57 Why Leaders Need to “Jump in the Pool” With AI06:21 Personally Experimenting With AI12:05 Why AI Isn’t Simply Going to Take Your Job12:17 Combining Left-Brain AI Capabilities With Right-Brain Human Skills18:12 Helping Non-Technical Teams Experiment With AI18:22 Building Confidence Through Hands-On Experience18:24 The Power of Early Adopters & AI Champions21:52 Leading Through Private Equity & Ownership Changes22:04 Protecting Culture During Organizational ChangeKey Learnings✔ Leaders should personally experiment with AI instead of watching from the sidelines✔ AI is evolving too quickly for anyone to claim complete expertise✔ Leading by example is essential for successful AI adoption✔ AI can handle more analytical work and free people to focus on creativity✔ Human skills become more valuable as AI capabilities increase✔ Non-technical professionals build confidence through hands-on experimentation✔ Small successes with AI can create momentum across an organization✔ Early adopters and internal champions can accelerate cultural change✔ Sharing best practices helps organizations increase AI adoption✔ Trust and human connection remain essential during periods of uncertainty✔ Leaders must actively protect culture during ownership and leadership transitions✔ Empathy and accountability can coexist in high-performing organizations💬 Andrew’s Most Powerful Quotes“Jump in the pool. No one knows AI.”“If you knew it three months ago, the mark’s already moved.”“Use AI as much as you can personally.”“AI is gonna take our jobs — but in reality, it’s not true.”“You want to free yourself up to be able to do more right-brain stuff.”“That’s where people start to build confidence, when they get a little bit of traction.”“The early adopters and the champions sharing best practices will plant some seeds and ignite some sparks.”Follow Andrew MetzLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-metz-sales/Website: zywave.comFollow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone Text WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577828 min - People First, AI Second: The Leadership Formula Driving Innovation | Alvin Pereira | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming every industry, but according to Alvin Pereira, the organizations that win won't be the ones with the most AI tools. They'll be the ones that combine innovation, empathy, and execution to solve real problems for real people.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Alvin Pereira, Senior Director and Head of Strategy & Operations for Global Workforce Management Products at ADP, former product leader at Google and Disney, and founder of The Pereira Foundation, to discuss how leaders can embrace AI while keeping people at the center of every decision.
Drawing from his experience leading products, building teams, and driving innovation across some of the world's most recognized organizations, Alvin shares practical insights on AI adoption, organizational transformation, product leadership, and creating cultures where innovation thrives.
From Disney's MagicBand platform to enterprise workforce technology, Alvin explains how AI is accelerating product development, reducing barriers to innovation, and enabling organizations to move from idea to execution faster than ever before.
At the heart of Alvin's philosophy is one powerful idea:
"AI should enhance the human."
In this episode, Alvin reveals:
◼️ Why AI should amplify people rather than replace them
◼️ How leaders can reduce fear and resistance around AI adoption
◼️ Why experimentation beats perfection in today's rapidly changing world
◼️ How AI is accelerating product development and innovation cycles
◼️ The importance of empathy in leadership and product design
◼️ Lessons learned from building products at Disney, Google, and ADP
◼️ Why culture matters more than process when driving transformation
◼️ How small teams can achieve extraordinary results
◼️ The role of change management in successful AI adoption
◼️ Why leaders must stay connected to customers and frontline employees
◼️ How AI can help organizations move from idea to prototype faster
◼️ The importance of servant leadership in modern organizations
◼️ Why adaptability is becoming the most valuable business skill
◼️ How leaders can create environments where innovation flourishes
◼️ What the future of AI-powered organizations may look like
Chapters00:00 Welcome to the AI Accelerator Podcast
00:29 Introducing Alvin Pereira
01:22 Alvin's Career Journey Across Technology, Hospitality & Product Leadership
03:04 Lessons from Google, Disney, Hilton & ADP
03:31 Product Management, Design & Customer-Centric Innovation
06:07 The AI Revolution and Product Development
07:00 Why AI Should Enhance Humans, Not Replace Them
09:04 Managing Organizational Change in the AI Era
12:05 Helping Teams Embrace AI Through Experimentation
14:21 Building a Growth Mindset Culture
15:32 Empowering Teams to Solve Bigger Problems
20:32 Leadership Lessons for Driving Innovation
21:22 Building Disney's MagicBand Experience
24:36 Culture, Trust & Organizational Success
26:26 The Biggest Opportunities Leaders Should Focus On
29:14 Accelerating Innovation with AI
31:42 Leadership, Legacy & The Pereira Foundation
33:24 Final Thoughts
Key Learnings✔ AI is most powerful when it enhances human capability
✔ Organizations that embrace experimentation adapt faster
✔ Change management is often harder than technology adoption
✔ Great leaders focus on removing obstacles for their teams
✔ Empathy remains a critical competitive advantage
✔ Culture drives innovation more effectively than process alone
✔ AI enables faster prototyping, testing, and iteration
✔ Small, empowered teams can create outsized impact
✔ Customer-focused innovation produces better outcomes
✔ The future belongs to leaders who combine technology with humanity
💬 Alvin's Most Powerful Quotes"AI should enhance the human."
"You don't build products for yourself. You build them for the people who use them."
"It's not impossible. We just haven't figured out how to do it yet."
"The best framework is the one that helps your team get things done."
"Culture exists for the people inside the organization."
"Leadership is about serving your team."
"The faster you can move from idea to prototype, the faster you can learn."
"Technology changes. Human needs don't."
About Alvin PereiraAlvin Pereira is a product and strategy executive with leadership experience spanning ADP, Google, Disney, Hilton, and Workforce Software. Throughout his career, he has led product innovation, digital transformation initiatives, and organizational growth efforts focused on creating exceptional customer experiences.
Currently serving as Senior Director and Head of Strategy & Operations for Global Workforce Management Products at ADP, Alvin helps organizations navigate change while building products that improve how people work.
Beyond his corporate leadership roles, Alvin is also the founder of The Pereira Foundation, focused on expanding opportunities and supporting communities through education and service.
Follow Alvin PereiraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvinpereira/Follow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/
Email: [email protected]
Phone Text WhatsApp: +1 978-618-5778
#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Leadership #ProductManagement #Innovation #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #AIAdoption #ProductLeadership #ADP #Disney #Google #AIAcceleratorPodcast #MattZembruski #AlvinPereira
34 min - Enterprise AI Leadership: Bridging Strategy, Execution & Innovation | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming every industry, but according to Shay Harel, the organizations that succeed won't be the ones with the most AI tools. They'll be the ones that can connect strategy, execution, and innovation.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Shay Harel, SVP of Engineering at Advisor360, to explore what it takes to lead enterprise organizations through the AI revolution while continuing to deliver business results today.Drawing from a career that spans manufacturing, customer support, QA, hardware engineering, software development, cybersecurity, fintech, product leadership, and executive management, Shay shares how leaders can balance long-term transformation with short-term execution.Having led global teams across the United States, Israel, India, China, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, Shay explains how AI is reshaping leadership, decision-making, collaboration, and innovation inside modern organizations.At the heart of Shay's leadership philosophy is one powerful idea:"Strategic thinking plus a Get-Stuff-Done attitude is where the magic happens."In this episode, Shay reveals:◼️ Why successful AI adoption requires both strategy and execution◼️ How leaders can bridge the gap between business goals and technical innovation◼️ The balance between AI automation and human judgment◼️ What enterprise organizations are really doing with AI today◼️ Microsoft Copilot, Anthropic Claude, and the evolving AI landscape◼️ Why non-technical leaders need to start learning AI immediately◼️ How AI can uncover insights that traditional reporting misses◼️ The future of AI-powered decision making inside organizations◼️ Why culture is often the biggest barrier to AI adoption◼️ How global teams accelerate innovation and problem solving◼️ The importance of aligning engineering, product, support, sales, and customer success◼️ Lessons learned building zero-to-one innovation projects inside large organizations◼️ How to protect existing revenue while investing in future growth◼️ Why leaders must experiment with AI before asking teams to adopt it◼️ The mindset shift every executive needs to make todayChapters00:00 Intro01:00 Guest Introduction03:00 Background & Career Journey07:00 Enterprise AI Adoption11:00 Microsoft vs Anthropic vs OpenAI16:00 Advice for Non-Technical Leaders20:00 AI + Human Decision Making24:00 Organizational Change & Leadership27:00 Final Advice29:00 Where to Connect with ShayKey Learnings✔ AI adoption is a leadership challenge as much as a technology challenge✔ Strategic thinking and execution must work together for successful transformation✔ AI should enhance human decision-making, not eliminate it✔ Non-technical leaders must develop AI literacy now✔ Enterprise AI success requires alignment across departments✔ Culture and organizational readiness often matter more than technology selection✔ Global teams bring diverse perspectives that accelerate innovation✔ Leaders should personally experiment with AI before driving adoption✔ Organizations that delay AI adoption risk losing competitive advantage✔ The future belongs to companies that combine human expertise with AI capabilitiesShay's Most Powerful Quotes"Strategic thinking plus a Get-Stuff-Done attitude is where the magic happens.""I've been lucky enough to experience every layer of technology, from customer support to executive leadership.""The line between what AI handles and what humans handle is shifting every week.""If your company hasn't started, you're already behind.""Great organizations align engineering, product, support, customer success, and sales.""AI gives us insights that traditional reporting could never uncover.""Innovation is about building the future while protecting the business that funds it."Follow Shay HarelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shay-harel-6170352/Follow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone / Text / WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577831 min - Microsoft AI Insider Reveals What Leaders Are Getting Wrong About AI | Chris Seferlis | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming every industry, but according to Chris Seferlis, most organizations are approaching AI the wrong way.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Chris Seferlis, Strategic Advisor at Microsoft, Boston University Professor, author, keynote speaker, and enterprise AI strategist, to discuss what leaders need to understand about AI adoption, Microsoft Copilot, AI agents, and the future of work.
Drawing from years of experience helping enterprise organizations implement AI solutions, Chris shares why so many AI projects fail, how leaders should think about productivity versus replacement, and why successful AI adoption starts with people, process, and business outcomes—not technology.
From Microsoft Copilot and Azure AI to enterprise data strategies and agentic workflows, Chris provides practical insights leaders can use today to unlock real business value while avoiding the common pitfalls that derail AI initiatives.
At the heart of Chris's message is one critical idea:
"Start with the business problem, not the AI."
In this episode, Chris reveals:
◼️ Why most AI projects fail to meet expectations
◼️ The biggest mistakes leaders make when implementing AI◼️ Why AI should enhance people, not simply replace them◼️ How Microsoft Copilot is changing workplace productivity◼️ The difference between Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot◼️ Why data quality remains critical for AI success◼️ How organizations can maximize existing Microsoft investments◼️ The rise of AI agents and agentic workflows◼️ Why business outcomes should drive AI strategy◼️ How AI is transforming enterprise operations and decision-making◼️ The role of governance, security, and responsible AI adoption◼️ Why leaders need hands-on AI experience themselves◼️ How organizations can build an AI-ready culture◼️ Practical examples of AI-powered automation and productivity gains◼️ What the future of work looks like in an AI-driven worldKey Learnings
✔ Most AI failures are caused by poor strategy, not poor technology
✔ Organizations must define business outcomes before implementing AI✔ AI is currently creating more productivity gains than workforce replacement✔ Data quality remains one of the biggest success factors for AI initiatives✔ Microsoft Copilot is evolving into a powerful enterprise productivity platform✔ AI agents will automate increasingly complex business workflows✔ Leaders should personally experiment with AI before driving adoption across teams✔ Successful AI adoption requires change management and employee engagement✔ Governance and security must be part of every AI strategy✔ Organizations that embrace AI thoughtfully will gain a significant competitive advantage💬 Chris's Most Powerful Quotes"Most AI projects fail because organizations don't clearly define what success looks like."
"AI should be tied to a business outcome, not deployed for the sake of using AI."
"The companies seeing the biggest wins are using AI to augment people, not replace them."
"Your data strategy is your AI strategy."
"Leaders need to experience AI firsthand before they can successfully lead AI transformation."
"The future belongs to organizations that can combine human expertise with AI capabilities."
Follow Chris SeferlisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cseferlis/
Website: https://seferlis.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisSeferlis
X: https://x.com/bizdataviz
Email: [email protected]
Follow Matt ZembruskiWebsite: https://leadingaiagility.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/
Email: [email protected]
Phone / Text / WhatsApp: +1 978-618-5778
40 min - AI, Leadership & The Future of Human-Centered Learning | Amanda C. Chambers | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming the workplace faster than most organizations are prepared for but according to Amanda C. Chambers, the future belongs to leaders who empower people to learn, adapt, and grow alongside technology.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Amanda C. Chambers, CEO of The Institute for Organizational Leadership (IOL Global), to explore how AI is reshaping leadership, learning and development, project management, marketing operations, and organizational growth.
With more than 25 years of experience in executive operations, instructional design, leadership development, podcast production, and business strategy, Amanda shares practical insights on how organizations can responsibly integrate AI while keeping people at the center of transformation.
From AI-powered marketing systems and content workflows to leadership coaching and workforce development, Amanda explains why the companies that thrive in the AI era will be the ones that invest in both technology and human capability.
At the heart of Amanda’s message is a powerful leadership principle:
“Let your people learn.”
In this episode, Amanda reveals:
◼️ Why organizations must train employees to use AI responsibly
◼️ How AI enhances human creativity instead of replacing people◼️ The role of leadership in guiding AI adoption across teams◼️ Why learning and development will become more important in the AI era◼️ How IOL Global manages AI-powered marketing and YouTube operations◼️ The practical ways Amanda’s team uses Claude, ChatGPT, and AI workflows◼️ Why executives must personally learn AI—not just delegate it◼️ The importance of strategic partnerships in navigating AI transformation◼️ How AI is accelerating instructional design and content creation◼️ Why organizations that refuse AI adoption risk falling behind◼️ The future of AI-powered project management and leadership operations◼️ How companies can maintain the human element while automating workflows◼️ Why ethical AI adoption and workforce training matter more than ever◼️ How curiosity, adaptability, and learning culture drive long-term success◼️ Amanda’s core philosophy: “AI should help people do better work.”Key Learnings
✔ AI should enhance people—not replace them
✔ Organizations must actively train teams to use AI responsibly✔ Learning and development are becoming even more valuable in the AI era✔ Leaders must personally understand AI to guide transformation effectively✔ AI creates more time for creativity, strategy, and relationship building✔ Human oversight remains essential in AI-powered workflows✔ Strategic partnerships accelerate AI learning and implementation✔ Ethical AI adoption requires intentional leadership✔ Marketing, content creation, and project management are rapidly evolving with AI✔ Curiosity and adaptability are becoming core leadership skills💬 Amanda’s Most Powerful Quotes
“Let your people learn.”
“AI is helping people do better work.”“You need to train your teams to use these tools responsibly.”“Learning is not going away—it’s changing.”“It’s not about replacing people. It’s about enhancing what we can do.”Follow Amanda C. Chambers
Website: http://www.iolglobal.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacchambers/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.chambers.330467/
Follow Matt Zembruski
Website: https://leadingaiagility.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/35 min - AI, Human Wisdom & The Future of Workforce Transformation | Jenny Korten
AI is accelerating faster than most organizations can adapt—but technology alone is not enough.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Jenny Korten, Co Partner at Thinking 5.0 and creator of Mind Nudger AI, to explore one of the most important leadership questions of the AI era: How do we use AI to enhance human wisdom instead of replacing it?
Drawing from decades of neuroscience based leadership coaching, intergenerational strategy, and enterprise transformation across Africa, Europe, and Asia, Jenny shares how leaders can bridge the widening gap between exponential AI advancement and incremental human learning.
From mindset rewiring and cognitive bias to HR transformation, AI readiness, and the neuroscience of sustainable learning, Jenny introduces a people first model for AI adoption that empowers organizations to evolve without sacrificing humanity.
At the center of Jenny’s philosophy is a bold idea: The future is not about AI replacing people—it is about AI amplifying collective human intelligence.
In this episode, Jenny reveals:
◼️ Why AI adoption fails when companies invest in software but ignore people
◼️ The “Formula 1 car without a trained driver” analogy for enterprise AI◼️ How neuroscience explains resistance to AI and organizational change◼️ Why leaders must move from tech first to people first thinking◼️ The hidden danger of AI anxiety and survival mode in the workforce◼️ How Thinking 5.0 helps organizations protect and enhance human wisdom◼️ The Mind Nudger AI framework for habit formation and learning retention◼️ The O.R.A. Method: Observe, Reflect, Act◼️ Why reflection—not reaction—is the leadership skill of the future◼️ How HR must evolve from administrative support to strategic transformation◼️ Why intergenerational alignment is essential for future ready organizations◼️ How AI can reduce burnout while improving strategic capacity◼️ The importance of training the human mind as much as the machine◼️ Why collective intelligence will define next generation leadership◼️ Jenny’s powerful question: “Are we the last human generation with wisdom?”Key Learnings
✔ AI transformation without human transformation creates failure
✔ Reflection is becoming a competitive leadership advantage✔ AI should reduce burnout—not increase anxiety✔ Human wisdom must remain central in AI strategy✔ Organizations need both technology investment and people investment✔ HR and L&D are essential drivers of AI readiness✔ Intergenerational alignment strengthens organizational resilience✔ Sustainable learning requires incremental habit building✔ AI can empower people when paired with critical thinking✔ Collective intelligence is the real future of work💬 Jenny’s Most Powerful Quotes
“If you invest $1 in technology, invest $1 in the human mind.”
“AI is the Formula 1 car but your people are the driver.”“The future is not about AI. The future is about evolving collective intelligence.”“Reflection reconnects us with human wisdom.”“Are we the last human generation with wisdom?”Follow Jenny Korten
Thinking 5.0: https://www.thinking50.studio/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-korten-736b16219/Email: [email protected]Follow Matt Zembruski
Website: https://leadingaiagility.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzembruski/Email: [email protected]Phone Text WhatsApp: +1 978-618-577842 min - AI, Creativity & The Future of Project Leadership | Tanya Boyd | AI Accelerator Podcast
AI is transforming project management, corporate training, and creative strategy but for many leaders, it still feels overwhelming.
In this episode of the AI Accelerator Podcast, host Matt Zembruski sits down with Tanya Boyd, Co Founder of Project Success Academy and Director of Creative Collaboration at Corbeau, to explore how AI, creativity, and continuous learning are reshaping the future of project leadership.
With more than 20 years of experience across disaster recovery, healthcare, IT, marketing, and government, Tanya brings a rare blend of strategic project leadership, creative innovation, and real world resilience. From Hurricane Katrina disaster recovery to PMI leadership, keynote stages, and AI powered corporate training, Tanya’s journey proves that adaptability, communication, and curiosity are the ultimate competitive advantages.
As a PMP®, PMI ACP®, keynote speaker, and co author of Projectland Goes to the Movies, Tanya shares how project managers, executives, and everyday professionals can embrace AI not as a threat but as a tool for growth, creativity, and transformation.
Together, Matt and Tanya unpack how leaders can overcome AI imposter syndrome, use AI to sharpen communication, strengthen personal branding, improve training programs, and future proof their careers in an era of intelligent transformation.
In this episode, Tanya reveals:
◼️ How disaster recovery shaped her project management journey
◼️ Why AI imposter syndrome is real and how to overcome it◼️ The biggest fears project managers face about AI◼️ Why continuous learning is the key to career resilience◼️ How AI can enhance creativity, communication, and leadership◼️ Practical ways project managers can use AI today◼️ Why authenticity matters when using AI for personal branding◼️ How AI can improve speaking, presentations, and corporate training◼️ Why networking and visibility are more important than ever◼️ How to future proof your career in a rapidly changing economy◼️ Why relationship building remains a uniquely human advantage◼️ The evolving role of project managers in an AI driven world◼️ How AI can create more time for strategy and leadership◼️ Why curiosity and communication unlock innovationKey Learnings
✔ AI should be used as a growth tool not a fear trigger
✔ Continuous learning is essential for career resilience✔ Project managers must combine technical, strategic, and people skills✔ AI can enhance communication, creativity, and execution✔ Authenticity matters even more in an AI powered world✔ Networking and visibility are critical career accelerators✔ AI can strengthen leadership through better preparation and strategy✔ Adaptability is the ultimate advantage in uncertain times✔ Human relationships remain irreplaceable✔ Leaders who embrace AI now will gain long term competitive advantage💬 Tanya’s Most Powerful Quotes
“We all feel like we’re behind with AI and that’s normal.”
“You’re never going to have it all figured out just like project management.”“Continuous learning is your greatest protection.”“AI can help you grow, but authenticity is what makes you matter.”“The goal is to gain more time back for relationships and strategy.”Follow Tanya Boyd
Website: https://projectsuccessacademy.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProjectSuccess_AcademyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-success-academy/posts/?feedView=allFollow Matt Zembruski
Website:
32 min
About AI Accelerator Podcast
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The AI Accelerator Podcast is for business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and innovators who want to move beyond AI theory and into real-world results.Hosted by Matt Zembruski, each episode…
features candid conversations with industry experts, technology leaders, founders, and AI practitioners who are transforming organizations through artificial intelligence.From enterprise AI strategy and automation to leadership, innovation, and emerging technologies, we explore what works, what doesn't, and what leaders need to know to stay ahead.If you're looking to turn AI into a competitive advantage, drive meaningful business outcomes, and prepare your organization for the future, this podcast is your roadmap.New episodes every week.