Introduction
This conversation features Anand Rao (developmentalmastery.substack.com) and Janet Ridsdale (jrnowwhat.substack.com) discussing their perspectives on navigating the future, particularly concerning the integration of AI and managing the human element of change.
Summary:
Janet Ridsdale shares her evolving focus towards "humanising the future" alongside AI. She sees her role not as a technical expert, but as a connector and encourager, aiming to bridge the gap for those feeling left behind or fearful of new technology. Her passion lies in creating an inclusive, accessible future where everyone feels empowered to adapt and learn, emphasising kindness, resilience, and reducing fear.
Anand Rao resonates with Janet's vision, highlighting her clarity and the importance of meeting people where they are. He emphasises reducing the fear associated with exploring the unknown, fostering curiosity, and recognising the value of existing skills and experiences when facing new challenges like AI. He encourages Janet to focus on her current audience who are already engaged with her message, using the "Starfish Story" as an analogy for making a difference one person at a time.
The discussion touches upon the importance of adapting existing knowledge rather than feeling the need to start from scratch, the concept of "surprisingly elegant change," and creating safe spaces for learning and exploration. Both agree that the organic, unplanned nature of their own conversation serves as a metaphor for creative exploration and embracing the unknown. They conclude by sharing where listeners can find their respective Substack publications.
Show Notes & Timestamps:
* [0:00] Janet's Introduction: Leaning into the future, focusing on humanising AI, being a bridge, not a tech expert. Personalising the journey alongside AI.
* [1:15] Anand Reads Janet's Vision: Acknowledging the clarity of Janet's articulated vision for "Now What?".
* [1:43] Addressing AI Fears: Discussing the different camps regarding AI adoption (adamant non-users, anxious middle, all-in).
* [2:17] Anand on Reducing Fear: Focusing on reducing the fear of exploring the new, restoring playfulness and curiosity.
* [3:06] Janet on Anand's Skill: Recognising Anand's ability to listen, understand, and meet people where they are.
* [4:09] Janet's Upcoming Content: Bridging article explaining her 'why' and upcoming podcast "Humanising the Future."
* [5:35] Humanising the Future - Deeper Dive: Discussing the 'corporate speak' vs. the core message of encouragement, kindness, and listening for buy-in.
* [7:01] Janet's "Why": Passion for reskilling/upskilling, inclusivity, accessibility, ensuring no one is left behind, driven by a desire to help people see their potential with AI.
* [10:39] Anand on Serving the Current Audience: The value of focusing on the engaged subscribers (the 1000 people) rather than constantly seeking new ones. Engaging with the world directly.
* [13:09] The Starfish Story: Anand shares the analogy about making a difference even on a small scale.
* [14:26] Encouraging Beyond Outcomes: Anand highlights the importance of pursuing passion and mission regardless of immediate "success" metrics.
* [15:17] Appreciating the Audience: Recognising the significance of 1000 people giving their attention.
* [16:04] Meeting People Where They Are: Discussing the importance of relating to others at their level, fostering connection and exchange.
* [18:04] Janet's Vision for Impact: How people might feel/think differently after engaging with her work – seeing possibilities, moving from fear, understanding the humanistic side.
* [19:37] Uniqueness of Voice: Anand emphasises that everyone's approach is unique and resonates differently; the importance of Janet's specific voice.
* [21:01] Janet's Experience with Analysis: Others analysing her Substack analytically miss her core focus on people.
* [22:04] Knowing Your Audience: Not trying to appeal to everyone; focusing on those who resonate with the core message.
* [23:10] Recognising Uniqueness in Change: The critical need to acknowledge individual differences, especially with rapid technological change.
* [25:10] Adapting, Not Discarding: Anand reframes Janet's "throwing out the playbook" to adjusting and adapting existing skills and experiences.
* [26:16] Surprisingly Elegant Change: Anand's concept of finding smooth, delightful ways to transition and evolve.
* [27:03] Bringing Your Whole Self: People aren't starting from scratch with new things; they bring a lifetime of experience. Anand's story about the physics professor.
* [30:39] Reducing Stress & Creating Openness: How framing change as adaptation ("surprisingly elegant") can lower anxiety and foster openness.
* [31:12] Feeling Safe to Be Open: The connection between nervous system regulation and the natural state of openness.
* [33:04] Key Themes Recap: Anand highlights Janet's heart/kindness and the shared goal of building accessible bridges.
* [33:44] The Conversation as Meta-Example: Reflecting on how their organic discussion mirrors the process of creative exploration.
Where to Find Them:
* Janet Ridsdale: jrnowwhat.substack.com
* Anand Rao: developmentalmastery.substack.com
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