The AI Growth Playbook: Lessons from Piers Linney

AI isn’t a buzzword anymore. It’s an operating system shift that’s already reshaping how we work, sell, and compete. I spoke with Piers Linney, entrepreneur, ex-Dragon, and co-founder of Implement AI, about what business leaders need to know right now to stay relevant.

Piers has sat on boards, built companies from scratch, and now helps SMEs navigate the complex and fast-changing AI landscape. He pulls no punches. If you’re still dragging your feet on AI, this episode is a wake-up call.

We spoke about where AI is really headed, how SMEs can integrate it practically, and why business owners need to focus on the augmented human, not just automation. He also gets candid about how he's advising his daughters on careers in a world where cognitive labour is under threat.

This episode will leave you thinking harder and moving faster about how you adapt. Because if you don’t, your competitors will.

Key Takeaways

• AI is still in dial-up phase. Most SMEs aren’t ready for what’s coming in the next five years.
• The real advantage is human + machine. Businesses that augment human capabilities with AI will win.
• Jobs are shifting. Knowledge work isn’t safe. Creativity, adaptability, and experience are what matter now.
• There’s no playbook. You need to experiment, test and build your AI roadmap before your competitors do.
• Advising the next generation. The education system isn’t ready. Parents and leaders need to step in.

👉 If you're serious about understanding the AI shift, check out the Implement AI Podcast, where Piers dives even deeper with expert guests and real-world strategies: https://implementai.io/podcast/

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🔥 Want to take things further? Join me in person this October at the Festival of Entrepreneurs on the 8–9th October at the NEC in Birmingham. The Festival of Entrepreneurs is where 5-10,000 ambitious founders come together to learn from the people who've actually done it. I'm giving my listeners free 2-day passes.

Real entrepreneurs, real stories, real strategies – exactly like what you're hearing right now, but live and in person. Go to www.festivalofentrepreneurs.co.uk and grab your free pass before they're gone.

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