Technological disruption has become the defining challenge for modern business. And perhaps no one understands this better than legacy firms. Too often, they’re cast as casualties of change, bound by old strategies and outdated thinking. But what if that narrative is wrong? What if established companies aren’t victims of disruption at all? In this thought-provoking episode of Dialogue with the Dean, Tima Bansal, Ivey Professor of Sustainability and Strategy, interviews Julian Birkinshaw about his new book Resurgent, coauthored with John Fallon, former CEO of Pearson.

Together, they unpack the surprising finding that over 95 per cent of pre-internet Fortune 500 firms still exist today, and explore why resilience, not reinvention, may be the true hallmark of enduring success.

Their conversation also looks closely at why some firms falter in the face of digital change while others embrace disruption, pivot successfully, and emerge stronger. From the evolution of companies like Fujifilm and the New York Times to the rise of AI, Birkinshaw reflects on what it takes for leaders – including those in business schools – to guide their organizations through uncertainty.

Engaging, personal and relevant, this episode reveals how businesses, and business leaders, can face disruption head-on – and come out stronger.

In this episode:

0000 – Digging into Resurgent

0838 – Is there something fundamentally different with artificial intelligence

1457 – What do business schools need to do to cope with digital disruption

2223 – How is Julian so productive?

To learn more about the topics discussed in this episode, please visit:

Inside Resurgent: How legacy companies stay in the game

https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/impact/read/2025/07/inside-resurgent-how-legacy-companies-stay-in-the-game/

Julian Birkinshaw | Resurgent

https://www.julianbirkinshaw.com/resurgent.html