Clarity Is Power

Ep21 The Future Is Human: Leading Well While Leveraging AI with Robert Schaffner


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AI is moving fast.
But great leadership is still deeply human.

If you’re a leader navigating AI, change, or uncertainty and wondering how to stay grounded, clear, and human while embracing technology, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Clarity is Power, Ruth Saw is joined by Robert Schaffner, founder of Triangility, leadership futurist, keynote speaker, and former engineer for a thoughtful and practical conversation on leading well in an AI-driven world.

Rather than framing leadership as humans versus technology, Robert invites us to see AI as a collaborator that supports thinking and decision-making while reminding us that judgment, empathy, creativity, and responsibility remain uniquely human.

A personal clarity moment—sparked by Robert becoming a grandfather—grounds the conversation in a bigger question:
What kind of leaders, workplaces, and world are we shaping for future generations?

Together, Ruth and Robert explore how leaders can move beyond fear or blind adoption of AI, and instead lead with intention, discernment, and clarity.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why the future of leadership remains human—even as AI advances
  • How to leverage AI without losing judgment, accountability, or ownership
  • Where AI supports thinking—and where human leadership matters most
  • How to design meetings and conversations where humans think first and AI supports second
  • Why clarity creates space for curiosity, creativity, and growth in teams

The conversation also surfaces risks leaders often overlook such as over-reliance on AI, erosion of critical thinking, and the quiet loss of pride and ownership in our work and offers practical ways leaders can stay conscious and intentional in how they use technology.

✨ A reflection to consider:

As AI becomes more powerful, how are you strengthening the human qualities needed to lead with clarity and confidence?

🎧 If you’re a leader committed to using AI wisely without losing your humanity, this episode offers reassurance, depth, and practical insight.

Stay listening till the end for Robert’s reflections on creating environments where people feel safe to think, explore ideas, and make better decisions together. 

And if you want more insights and advice, check out his new book, Paddle Forward: Teaming in the Age of AI, link available below.

🛠 Tools Mentioned
Songwriting AI: https://www.suno.com
Facilitation: https://www.liberatingstructures.com/
Creative tools:
https://www.dzine.ai
https://openart.ai
https://higgsfield.ai

Connect with Robert Schaffner
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertschaffner/
Business: https://triangility.com/
New Book (Paddle Forward: Teaming in the Age of AI) https://www.amazon.com/Paddle-Forward-Teaming-Age-AI-ebook/dp/B0GLFHKMZH/

About Ruth
Ruth Saw is a leadership and communication coach, Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, Accredited Soundwave Practitioner, and author of five bestselling books on clarity, purpose, and faith.

Connect with Ruth Saw
Linkedin: Ruth Saw
Check out the International Bestselling Book: Clarity is Power

And don’t forget to rate, follow, and share this episode if it inspired you!

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Clarity Is PowerBy Ruth Saw