What if the greatest challenge facing leaders today isn't technology itself — but how we think about it?

In this episode of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by world-renowned digital anthropologist, futurist, and author Brian Solis for a powerful conversation on mindset, leadership, and navigating growth in an era defined by AI, acceleration, and constant disruption.

Brian shares why meaningful scale begins not with tools or tactics, but with how leaders think, perceive, and make decisions. Drawing from his bestselling books Life Scale and Mind Shift, he explains how founders and executives can move from reaction to intention, from overwhelm to clarity, and from noise to meaningful progress.

This episode explores how leaders can develop the mental frameworks required to grow sustainably, lead with confidence, and embrace innovation without losing focus or purpose.

Episode Highlights: Scaling Begins with Mindset

Why true scale starts with how leaders think, not how fast they grow.

Life Scale vs Life Speed

How constant motion creates the illusion of progress — and why slowing down leads to better outcomes.

The Cost of Distraction

How algorithms, social media, and constant input quietly derail focus, clarity, and long-term vision.

The Six Stages of Mind Shift

Brian breaks down the framework behind his work:

• Receive – Creating space to observe what matters

• Perceive – Understanding patterns instead of reacting to noise

• Weave – Connecting insights into meaning

• Conceive – Imagining new possibilities

• Believe – Developing conviction and agency

• Become – Acting with clarity and purpose

Signal vs Noise in the Age of AI

Why most leaders feel overwhelmed by AI — and how to identify what actually matters.

AI as an Augmentation Tool

How AI enhances thinking, experimentation, and execution rather than replacing human judgment.

The Power of a Beginner's Mind

Why curiosity and openness are now essential leadership traits.

From Reaction to Intention

How stepping back enables better decisions, stronger strategy, and sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways

• Scaling begins with mindset, not technology

• Most leaders are reacting instead of responding intentionally

• AI is a multiplier, not a solution

• Focus comes from subtraction, not addition

• Clarity enables better decisions and stronger leadership

• Curiosity is a competitive advantage

• Frameworks turn complexity into clarity

About Brian Solis

Brian Solis is a world-renowned digital anthropologist, futurist, and Head of Global Innovation at ServiceNow.

He advises senior leaders around the world on innovation, digital transformation, and the future of work. Brian has published more than 60 research reports and several bestselling books, including Life Scale and Mind Shift, exploring how technology shapes business, behavior, and society.

Often referred to as "The CEO Whisperer," Brian works closely with executives across industries to help them rethink leadership, customer experience, and AI-driven transformation.

He is a regular contributor to Forbes, Harvard Business Review, CIO, and Worth, and was named one of the original LinkedIn Top 500 Influencers, alongside Bill Gates, Richard Branson, and Arianna Huffington. His work is followed by over 800,000 people worldwide.

Connect with Brian Solis

Website: https://www.briansolis.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansolis

Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DCL6RLV6

Subscribe & Listen

Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider

This episode is essential for:

• Founders and SME leaders navigating growth

• CEOs and executives adapting to AI and disruption

• Entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed or reactive

• Leaders seeking clarity, focus, and direction

• Anyone interested in mindset, innovation, and future-ready leadership

About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling

ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus.

Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com

Subscribe & Listen

Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling ChannelListen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX InsiderListen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider