Today's guest, Houri Tamizifar, Co-Founder and CEO of Cynuria Inc. and Inc. 5000 honoree (Rank No. 2502), joins the show to discuss the growing importance of Leadership Adaptability and the evolving role of AI in education. Houri shares why college students must proactively build AI skills and collaborate with faculty to stay ahead of rapid technological changes shaping the workforce. She highlights how clear communication and a culture of trust are critical for navigating organizational change and driving innovation. Houri also urges CEOs to lead with empathy, prioritize employee well-being, and create environments where teams feel empowered to adapt, grow, and thrive in a shifting job market.

Episode Highlights & Time Stamps

2:34 Introducing Huri Tami Zafar 6:03 AI and Learning Solutions 10:14 Understanding Learning Agility 12:01 Advice for Students on Learning 14:52 Leadership Principles for Growth 19:18 The Role of Core Values 21:16 Defining Business Adaptability 26:12 Empathy in Leadership

Leadership Adaptability & the Future of AI in Education

In this episode, we sit down with Houri Tamizifar, co-founder and CEO of Sinuria, for a candid conversation about Leadership Adaptability and the fast-growing influence of AI in education and training. Houri opens by stressing why college students can't wait for AI to simply "show up" in their curriculum, because in most cases, it won't. She encourages students to take initiative, seek out AI learning opportunities, and collaborate with their professors so they're prepared for the technology-driven workforce they'll be entering.

Host Gene Hammett adds a leadership lens, pointing out that adaptability isn't just about being flexible; it's about communicating clearly and guiding teams with confidence when technology and industry trends change rapidly. Both he and Houri shine a light on how organizations that embrace innovation and curiosity will be the ones that stay competitive.

Building Learning Agility & the Role of AI in the Job Market

Houri shares her long journey in the education sector and how it inspired her to launch Sinuria, a company grounded in neuroscience-based training and human capital solutions. She also introduces her new startup focused on using AI to support instructional designers—making learning design faster, sharper, and more impactful. It's a reflection of her belief that the learning industry is evolving quickly, and organizations must evolve right along with it.

The conversation then shifts to AI's growing impact on the job market. Houri explains that companies are already leaning toward hiring people who not only understand AI but are also willing to work alongside it. She highlights learning agility, a core value at Cynuria, as a must-have skill for employees who want to grow, stay relevant, and help their organizations maintain a competitive edge in a constantly shifting landscape.

Trust, Culture, and Leading With Empathy

Houri dives into one of her strongest beliefs: that a culture rooted in trust fuels innovation. She describes Sinuria's intentional hiring process designed to find people whose values align with the company and explains why giving employees room to think creatively and operate from their strengths leads to stronger results.

She also addresses the very real human side of change. Adaptability doesn't always come naturally, and employees often feel anxious as new technologies emerge. Houri emphasizes the importance of leaders communicating openly, offering support, and creating environments where change feels less intimidating.

As the conversation wraps, Houri offers heartfelt advice to CEOs: lead with empathy. Understand what your people are facing, prioritize their well-being, and give them the time and space they need to adjust as the world of work transforms. In her view, adaptability isn't just a leadership skill; it's an act of empowerment that helps teams not only navigate change but thrive because of it.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership Adaptability is Non-Negotiable: Effective leaders must communicate clearly, guide teams through constant change, and foster a culture that embraces innovation.
• AI Skills Are Becoming Essential: Students can no longer rely solely on traditional education—proactively learning AI tools and engaging with faculty is critical for future career readiness.
• Learning Agility Drives Success: Organizations increasingly prioritize employees who are curious, flexible, and willing to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies.
• Trust Fuels Innovation: Building a culture grounded in trust empowers employees to think creatively, collaborate deeply, and perform at their best.
• AI Is Reshaping the Job Market: Companies are leaning toward hires who can work effectively with AI and understand how to integrate it into their roles.
• Empathy Is a Leadership Advantage: CEOs and leaders who prioritize employee well-being create more resilient and adaptable teams.
• Change Requires Communication: A transparent, supportive approach makes it easier for employees to navigate new technologies and shifting workplace expectations.
• Empowered Teams Thrive: When leaders give people space to use their strengths, creativity, and voice, organizations become more agile and competitive.

Resources & Next Steps

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