Outthinkers

Cindy Anderson, Chief Marketing Officer at the IBM Institute for Business Value, shares her insights on quantifying the ROI of thought leadership. She discusses vital metrics that demonstrate the effectiveness of thought leadership in enhancing organizational credibility. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between innovation and consistency in messaging. Cindy also explores how generative AI is shaping thought leadership while emphasizing the necessity of a human touch. Tune in for valuable strategies to elevate your brand's authority!

Faisal Hoque, an award-winning entrepreneur and bestselling author, discusses the evolution of AI from a mere tool to a strategic partner for humanity. He introduces his complementary frameworks, OPEN and CARE, designed to guide the safe adoption of AI while emphasizing ethical considerations. The conversation delves into the challenges and risks of integrating AI into society, urging a balance between optimism and caution. Faisal also highlights how individual actions can collectively shape our future, inspiring listeners to engage thoughtfully with technology.

JoAnn Garbin, a sustainability and technology innovator with 25 years of experience, shares insights from her career, including her work at Microsoft. She discusses the parallels between innovation cycles and nature’s adaptive processes, emphasizing the necessity for businesses to continuously innovate. Garbin breaks down four distinct innovation patterns, showcasing how innovation extends beyond technology to encompass business models and customer experience. The importance of collaboration and a holistic approach to sustainability in innovation also takes center stage.

Peter Compo, author of The Emergent Approach to Strategy and former DuPont leader, shares his unique perspective on strategy, likening it to evolution and music. He discusses how strategy should be agile and adaptive, debunking the top-down approach. With insights from creative processes related to Marie Curie and jazz legend Charlie Parker, Compo emphasizes mastering fundamentals before innovation. He also highlights the dangers of disconnected execution and the need for cohesive strategies, urging leaders to embrace continuous refinement and discard outdated beliefs.

Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez, a leading thinker on project management and author of 'Powered by Projects', dives into the transformative shift towards a project economy. He discusses how AI and digitalization are reshaping work, predicting that by 2030, 70% of jobs will be project-based. The episode emphasizes the decline of traditional hierarchies in favor of nimble, project-driven teams. Nieto also shares insights on the importance of effective leadership in aligning strategy with execution amidst this changing landscape, and the rise of new consulting models that empower clients.

Devin DeCiantis, co-author of "The Enduring Enterprise" and Managing Partner at Lansberg Gersick Advisors, shares insights on the distinct strengths of family businesses. He discusses their resilience and unique long-term strategies that allow them to thrive even during economic turbulence. The conversation highlights how family enterprises can teach traditional corporations about planning for the future and adapting to challenges. DeCiantis also delves into the critical role of redundancy and community commitment in ensuring stability and success.

In this conversation, Sandra Matz, an expert in human behavior and AI from Columbia Business School, discusses her groundbreaking research on "psychological targeting." She highlights how digital footprints reveal personal psychology and can influence decisions, from purchases to voting. The podcast explores the balance between hyper-personalization and ethical concerns about privacy. Additionally, Matz touches on the dynamics of human identity and the evolving role of AI in organizational strategies, stressing the importance of integrating ethical practices in tech-driven environments.

Ethan Mollick, an influential AI researcher and Associate Professor at the Wharton School, challenges common misconceptions about AI replacing jobs. He discusses the 'Centaur versus Cyborg' mentality, emphasizing collaboration between humans and AI. Ethan shares insights from studies that reveal how AI enhances productivity and creativity in the workplace. He highlights the importance of integrating AI thoughtfully, advocating for a proactive approach to harness its potential for innovation while adapting to evolving job structures.

Andrew Hill, senior business writer at the Financial Times and author of books on Victorian thinkers, dives into the evolving landscape of business literature. He shares insights on this year’s FT and Schroders Business Book of the Year, exploring themes like sustainability and corporate purpose. The conversation brings up John Ruskin's perspective on modern trends, the complexities of integrating ESG principles, and the implications of a multi-stage life on work and education. Hill’s experience adds depth to discussions on profit versus sustainability.

Dr. Marcus Collins, an award-winning marketer and cultural translator, dives into how culture shapes consumer behavior and identities. He discusses leveraging cultural narratives to foster brand loyalty, using examples from iconic brands like Nike and Apple. The conversation highlights the importance of targeting fringe groups to spark innovation and network effects. Collins also emphasizes personal beliefs in establishing loyalty, illustrating how individuals connect ideologically with brands, contributing to a profound sense of belonging.