Artificial Intelligence Podcast: ChatGPT, Claude, Midjourney and all other AI Tools

Change Management in the AI Era with Rich Cruz

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Nov 17, 2025

Rich Cruz, an expert in organizational development and change leadership, discusses how workplaces can adapt to AI-driven changes. He draws parallels between historical tech shifts and today's AI landscape, emphasizing that fear can hinder adaptation. Rich offers actionable advice on bridging skills gaps and the importance of a human-centric approach to AI implementation. He highlights the need for effective communication and leveraging existing employee knowledge to foster acceptance, assuring that while technology evolves, the human touch remains irreplaceable.

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INSIGHT

AI Is Another Historical Tech Shift

Rich Cruz ties AI change to past tech shifts, reminding listeners humans adapt through learning despite fear.
He highlights fear responses (fight/flight/freeze/fawn) as a major barrier to adopting AI.

ADVICE

Analyze Tasks Then Close Skill Gaps

Break work into tasks and competencies, then assess your skill gaps to prioritize learning for AI readiness.
Use assessments and available free courses to close gaps with curiosity instead of avoidance.

ADVICE

Get Proficient Fast By Practicing

Spend focused time learning AI tools; one intensive day can make you a proficient user for many tasks.
Treat AI like a microwave: learn inputs and expected outputs instead of inner mechanics.

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Welcome to the Artificial Intelligence Podcast with Jonathan Green! In this insightful episode, we delve into the dynamic world of change management in the AI era with our special guest, Rich Cruz, an expert in organizational development and change leadership.

Rich shares his valuable insights on how traditional change management principles can be effectively applied in today's rapidly evolving AI landscape. He underscores the importance of adaptability, drawing parallels between past technological shifts, like the introduction of personal computers, and the current AI revolution. Rich offers practical advice on bridging knowledge gaps through continuous learning and emphasizes the significance of building on existing skills to prepare for AI-driven transformations.

Notable Quotes:

"We adapt. We've got these things on our shoulders called brains, that help us to learn... But at the same time, one of the things I find really interesting is that we're afraid." - [Rich Cruz]
"If you can approach AI the way you approach a microwave... when I do this, it does that. It becomes a lot simpler." - [Jonathan Green]
"The bots are not gonna be able to do that. That's a person. And we have to be able to relate to people." - [Rich Cruz]

Rich also discusses strategies for leaders to implement AI tools without causing friction or fear among employees. He suggests a human-centric approach, ensuring that new technologies complement rather than replace human capabilities, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Connect with Rich Cruz:

Website: https://harmoniousworkplaces.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjacruz/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hermiehrcrab/

Rich highlights the role of AI in enhancing human potential rather than replacing it, advocating for a balanced integration that values human interaction and critical thinking. If you're intrigued by how AI is reshaping the workplace and seek expert guidance on navigating change, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with Jonathan Green

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