Designing Schools Future Focus | Why Most Organizations Will Fail at AI: It’s Not the Tech, It’s the Leadership Gap | Week of May 12, 2025
This episode unpacks the viral claims that AI leadership doesn't exist yet and challenges that view by highlighting the real issue our resistance to change management and leadership development. Sabba and Stefan discuss how organizations can unlock real transformation by focusing on people, teams, and culture rather than just tools, while raising urgent questions about AI’s expanding role in social and professional life.
Timestamps
[00:01:00] Rethinking AI Leadership
- Sabba and Stefan critique viral LinkedIn posts claiming AI leadership doesn’t exist, arguing that this is more about change management than technological gaps.
[00:03:00] Defining What AI Leaders Actually Do
- They break down what true AI leadership looks like—navigating ambiguity, redesigning workflows, and building learning cultures.
[00:08:00] The Career Question Everyone Should Be Asking
- Stefan introduces a provocative reflection: What can you do better without AI than with it? This sparks a conversation about job security, workplace dynamics, and productivity.
[00:22:00] Microsoft’s Game-Changing People Skills Tool
- Sabba highlights Microsoft's new AI-powered employee skills mapping, pushing organizations to prioritize collaboration, visibility, and culture.
[00:34:00] AI Social Companions: The New Mental Health Crisis?
- The episode wraps by dissecting Mark Zuckerberg's push for AI companions, exploring the blurred lines between tech-driven connection and human relationships.
Explore More from Designing Schools
- 🤝 Partner with Us: Join the AI Power Circle and collaborate with forward-thinking educators building the future with AI.
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- 🎓 Prepare Your Students for an AI Future: Free Course – AI Skills for College and Career to equip your school community with future-ready skills.
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Resources Mentioned