316 Author Jeff Ton on the Future of Work through Technology and Leadership

After we bond over our love of canoeing and the wonder of wide open water, technologist and author Jeff Ton and I go on a leadership journey from the future, to the past and back again! We explore the impact of technology and culture on the future of work, including the potential  impact of generative AI platforms, the pandemic, and virtual reality in changing the way we work. We also touch on the importance of blockchain and transparency in creating a more inclusive and equitable world. We also delve into the power of journaling as a leadership tool, the challenge of keeping up with rapidly changing technology, and we have fun reimaging - and repurposing - office buildings. This is a conversation to pique curiosity and expand leadership perspectives with our exploratory ‘could’ questions about how we lead in a way that is fit for the future.   Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-future-jeff-ton   Key Moments  Planet Human  [00:00:04] Discussion on the banning of certain educational concepts in India and the implications for the future.   Planet Zoë [00:02:53] Updates on the release of the book ‘Terra Blanca’ - head to the Bookish page for a sneak peek of the cover and sign up to receive the ebook for free when it lands later this year!    Introducing Jeff Ton [00:03:54] This week’s guest is an author, speaker, technologist and podcaster with decades of experience.    Application of AI in work [00:11:45] Discussion on using generative AI platforms, such as ChatGPT and BARD, for various tasks and the need for training to interact with these platforms.   Virtual reality and the future of work [00:15:46] Exploration of how virtual reality platforms and 3D graphics can revolutionise remote work and create immersive experiences, including virtual meetings and simulations.    The future of office buildings [00:20:32] Consideration of the future of big office buildings and potential alternative uses, such as indoor gardening spaces and apartment living, due to the shift towards remote work and the need to avoid empty city centres.   Future Tech [00:22:59] Discussion about the future of technology, specifically virtual reality and its potential applications in the workplace.   Leadership Lesson [00:23:31] The importance of listening as a leadership skill and the impact it can have on effective leadership.   Diversity and Inclusion [00:23:47] The desire to solve diversity, equity, and inclusion issues in the workplace and create inclusive environments for all employees.   Amplifiers Academy™️ - online, self paced leadership development [28:55]  Featuring short video lessons, great checklists and resources and recommendations and book summaries, all there to help boost your leadership thinking and abilities. We focus on leading strategy, leading culture, leading change and leading performance. So if you want a go-to resource that can help boost your strategic abilities immediately, check it out.    The Art of Journaling as a Leadership Tool [00:34:19] Exploring the benefits of journaling for gaining clarity, making decisions, and reflecting on personal growth.   Documenting Successes and Celebrating Victories [00:36:13] The importance of journaling daily successes and celebrating milestones as a leader for personal growth and motivation.   Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making [00:46:11] Teases the upcoming discussion with Constance Dierickx about the application of AI in decision making.