In a world where technology is accelerating and traditional advantages are quickly becoming commoditized, what actually sets leaders apart?

In this episode of Climbing the Corporate Ladder Without Breaking a Heel, Dr. Cynthia sits down with Josh Linkner, two-time New York Times bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, venture capital investor, professional jazz guitarist, and globally recognized innovation expert.

Together, they explore why human creativity is the ultimate competitive advantage in the modern workplace. Josh challenges the fear-based narrative around AI and automation, offering a powerful reframe: the goal is not to outpace machines, but to out-human them. While technology can scale tasks, humans bring empathy, judgment, imagination, and meaning, qualities that cannot be replicated or commoditized. Using the vivid analogy of classical versus jazz musicians, Josh explains why today's leaders must move beyond rigid playbooks and learn to improvise, adapt, and think creatively in real time. He also breaks down the difference between imagination, creativity, and innovation, and shares how small, everyday "big little breakthroughs" can transform teams, cultures, and results.

You'll also learn:

• Why creativity is not just for artists, but for finance, legal, operations, and customer service
• The biggest blocker to creativity at work, and how leaders can remove it
• How to build a culture that unlocks the creative potential already inside your people
• Why creativity is the foundation of every solution, opportunity, and advancement in human history

If you want to future-proof your leadership, elevate your impact, and build organizations that thrive in uncertainty, this conversation is your playbook, with a little jazz mixed in.

Pre-order your copy of Human Capital Investment Strategy: bit.ly/BUYHCIS

Connect with Josh:

joshlinkner.com | LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Cynthia: dr-cynthia.com | @DrCynthiaBentzenMercer | LinkedIn