Future-Focused with Christopher Lind

There's the headline, and then there's the truth and story underneath that headline. It's interesting how much variance there often is between the two, and this week is no exception. In this weekly update, I cover five happenings at the intersection of business, tech, and human experience in a way that helps you make sense of what's happening and what you can do to navigate it. With that, let's get to it. ATT Data Breach - Anybody else noticed a recent surge of junk texts or been added to an unusual amount of spam WhatsApp groups? Well, it may be the result of the recent ATT breach. While annoying, the breach may not carry some of the implications the hype would suggest. The breach may not even have had anything to do with ATT. All that said, there are some important lessons we can all take about our personal data practices. Child-Safe AI - We have age limits on military service, smoking, drinking, and voting. Why not AI? Or maybe we work with the marketing team from D.A.R.E to see if we can keep a kid off AI. Joking aside, the risks of AI are exponentially higher when we think about the vulnerabilities of children. Unfortunately, they're often the last ones to be considered. Perhaps it's time we did something about that. Decoding Whale Linguistics - Did you hear what one whale said to the other? Me neither, and despite AI's recent developments in identifying patterns in what would otherwise seem like meaningless whale noise, we still haven't cracked the code. That said, we have made one small step for whales, one giant leap for whalekind. AI Physicians - It's it fun to go through all the hassle of seeing a human doctor only to have them run through a series of standard questions? No, no it is not. Thankfully, AI is making some powerful developments in its ability to automate the mundane, hopefully opening up more room for meaningful doctor/patient interactions. However, whether that's where we end up will depend on the choices we make. Data Worker Exploitation - There's nothing funny about people being paid pennies to expose themselves to horrific working conditions, all so we can have a fancy chatbot that spits out the best chocolate chip cookie recipe or even the cure for cancer. While most people don't realize the conditions of many data workers, we should, if for no other reason than to contribute to helping prevent the exploitation of data workers. At the end of the day, there are better solutions and we need to demand them. Show Notes: In this week's update, Christopher dives into the intricacies of the AT&T data breach, misconceptions, and its broader implications. Explore the risks AI presents to children, with a spotlight on a study examining AI interactions with young users. Discover how AI is decoding whale communications and the limitations of current findings. Learn about Eureka AI's contributions to healthcare, particularly in diagnosing thyroid conditions, and the importance of maintaining human oversight in medical applications. Finally, uncover the exploitation faced by data workers in the AI industry and initiatives advocating for their rights and better working conditions. 00:00 Introduction 01:14 Understanding the AT&T Data Breach 11:16 The Impact of AI on Child Safety 21:07 Decoding Whale Communication with AI 28:26 Eureka AI: Revolutionizing Thyroid Disorder Diagnosis 38:35 The Human Cost of AI: Data Worker Exploitation 48:20 Conclusion and Call to Action #ai #artificialintelligence #healthcare #equity #cybersecurity

Can technology truly enhance human-centered leadership, or is it a competitor for the center? This week, I'm digging into that and more with with Will Guillaume Foussier, CEO and Founder of AceUp. Will’s journey from Harvard’s Innovation Lab to leading a company at the forefront of leadership transformation has given him a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and human-centered development. Together, we'll explore the core principles of human-centered leadership and the surprising ways technology can support these ideals. We'll highlight the importance of personalized development and the transformative impact that thoughtful, tech-enabled coaching can have on leaders at all levels. At a time when the human touch is more crucial than ever, we need to understand how it is intricately linked with technological advancements. Connecting the dots between these two is essential to the success of every leader and the performance of every organization. I think you'll find this episode essential for anyone interested in the future of leadership and the innovative strategies driving real change in the workplace. As always, we'll challenge conventional wisdom and offer new perspectives on integrating human-centered values with cutting-edge technology. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher welcomes Will Foussier, Founder, and CEO of AceUp, to discuss the transformative role of AI in coaching. The conversation explores the intersection of business technology, human experience, and AI-enhanced coaching. Christopher and Will dive into Will's journey from finance to becoming a leader in coaching services, the critical importance of a coaching culture, and how technology can democratize access to high-quality coaching. They also tackle essential topics such as building trust in coaching relationships, the balance of data privacy and transparency, and the cultural shift needed to embrace AI as a tool for personal and organizational growth. This episode offers valuable insights into how organizations can harness the power of AI to enhance coaching, drive performance, and foster an inclusive, learning-oriented culture. 00:00 - Introduction 01:57 - Meet Will Foussier: Journey to Coaching 08:20 - Challenges and Misconceptions in Coaching 13:30 - The Role of Trust and Leadership in Coaching 18:36 - Implementing Coaching in Organizations 26:38 - Navigating Data Privacy in Coaching 38:21 - The Role of Team Coaching 40:48 - AI and the Future of Coaching 50:58 - The Value of Data in Coaching 59:25 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ai #coaching #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #futureofwork

John C. Maxwell said it well when he said, "Change is inevitable. Growth is optional." This week, I've got a rundown of the latest updates at the interesection of business, tech, and human experience that offer a glimpse into the truth of that statement. And, if you're wondering whether change will at least slow its pace, I wouldn't hold your breath. With that, let's get to it. Instagram AI Influencers - "So, I was talking with my favorite AInfluencer the other day, and you'll never guess what they had to say about..." What kind of crazy world are we living in where our social media apps add functionality that lets you knowingly engage with your favorite influencers, knowing full well you're not even talking to a person? I'm sorry but while there are some people I'd love to meet that I probably never will, an artificial substitute doesn't count. AI Music Legal Troubles—2002 called and wants its Napster back. Sorry, they'll have to hold. 1993 is on hold arguing about a mix tape. While I'll acknowledge the legal kerfuffle around AI music platforms Suno and Udio isn't the same, there are a lot of familiar scents in the air as the music industry dukes it out in the AI arena. No Hope Robots - Work has gotten so bad that even robots are terminating themselves to get out of it. Yes, you heard that right. Now, taking one's own life is no joking matter, as I know from my own experiences, which is why we need to take things seriously when even robots are showing up in the data. There's a lot more to this than initially presents, but it's a growing trend we need to be actively working to mitigate. CriticGPT - While suggesting a snake eat its own tail to address its appetite problems may sound like madness, it apparently isn't when it comes to AI. With the speed AI is creating stuff, the only hope we have in evaluating whether what its creating is any good is AI, at least that's what OpenAI thinks with it's announcement of CriticGPT. And, they may not be wrong despite my initial reactions. AI's Economic Impact - You know it's getting serious when the government is taking serious action on something, and the impending impact of AI on jobs, income disparity, and tax revenue apparently has them spooked. What does it all mean? Well, right now it seems we're more focused on pointing out the problem than finding a solution, but we have to start somewhere. Show Notes: In this week's update, Christopher covers a wide range of intriguing topics at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience. Highlights include a discussion on Instagram's AI Studio for influencers, major lawsuits in the music industry involving AI-generated music, reports of AI robots terminating themselves due to monotonous tasks, and OpenAI's newly launched Critic GPT designed to audit ChatGPT. Christopher also examines economic and societal implications of AI, exploring fiscal policies, unemployment concerns, and income disparity challenges in an AI-driven future. Tune in for insightful commentary on how these developments impact both industries and individuals. 00:00 - Introduction 01:18 - Instagram AI Influencers: The New Trend 10:06 - The Music Industry's Legal Battle with AI 18:32 - Self-Terminating AI Robots: A Disturbing Trend 25:57 - AI Auditing AI: The Rise of Critic GPT 36:56 - Economic Impacts of AI: A Growing Concern 45:50 - Preparing for an AI-Driven Future #techtrends #ai #lawsuits #mentalhealth #economics

What will it take to finally put to rest legacy methods of learning? This week, I'll be challenging conventional skill development methods by diving into the world of AI-powered, game-based learning with Huw Newton-Hill, Managing Director of North America at Attensi. Still, believe gamification is just another trendy buzzword? Prepare to be surprised. We'll be doing a deep dive into how game-based learning can dramatically reduce training times while simultaneously closing knowledge gaps. We’ll discuss how these immersive simulations provide a risk-free environment for learners, enhancing both engagement and effectiveness. It will also be an opportunity to explore the rapidly expanding role AI is playing in automating and optimizing the experience while tackling the balance between automation and human interaction in training programs. Done right, we can use technology to create a more personal experience that hits on the most human elements all while having a bit of fun. I think you'll find the conversation is packed with forward-thinking ideas and practical examples of how AI is revolutionizing the way we develop skills. Whether an L&D professional, a business leader, or simply curious about the future of education, this conversation offers valuable insights into the evolving world of skill development. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher explores the intersection of AI, game-based skill development, and business with Hew Newton-Hill, Managing Director of North America at Attensi. The discussion centers around the evolving landscape of skill development, the impact of AI, and how game-based learning can enhance employee training. Key insights include the balance between human expertise and AI, personalization in learning, and strategies for driving innovation within organizations. Perfect for business leaders and learning professionals looking to integrate AI with purpose. 00:00 - Introduction and Overview 06:49 - Gamification vs. Game-Based Learning 16:46 - The Role of AI in Game Design and Learning 24:39 - Personalized Learning Experiences with AI 31:36 - User-Generated Content and Coaching 37:08 - The Role of Humility in Performance 46:00 - Experimentation and Risk in AI Adoption 49:56 - Understanding Your Organization 56:41 - Collaborative Innovation #ai #skilldevelopment #gamification #futureofwork #genai

Happy Independence Day to all my American listeners, and what better way to celebrate than a rundown on some of the biggest happenings at the intersection of business, tech, and human experience? Amirite? So, let the celebration begin! Rogue AI Clone - Let's have people interact with an AI clone of me! What could possibly go wrong? A lot as Caryn Marjorie quickly learned as her fans engaged with her AI clone in ways she never imagined. What was most disturbing to her wasn't just the behavior of her fans but the way her AI clone was behaving on her behalf. Meeting Behavior Research - Study reveals that too many meetings aren't good for employees! Who would have thought? While the research had a lot of say about the rising trend of meeting volume, non-participation, and camera usage, we need to be careful not to wrongly conclude, "If we just get people back in a room together, it will all be okay." Future of AI Entertainment - Imagine a world where rather than flipping through pages of options on Netflix you had to think of everything about what you wanted to see in the media. Sounds amazing right? Not really. Ignoring the tech limitations, I don't see human behavior driving us to a world of user-generated media as a replacement for real artistic work. Real Reason for Tech Layoffs - Are GenAI models and AI Agents the nefarious secret behind why so many tech companies are wiping out their tech talent? Not according to Joe Procopio, and I think there's a lot of truth in his assessment. However, given all these things resulting in layoffs, is there any hope for human labor. More than you may realize. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher discusses the risks and challenges of using AI clones based on the case of influencer Caryn Marjorie, who faced issues when her AI-generated chatbot went off the rails. The episode also explores a massive Harvard Business Review study on the evolving patterns of meetings post-pandemic, highlighting the decline in face-to-face interactions and the increase in virtual meeting fatigue. The third topic addresses the potential of AI in entertainment and my disagreement with Ashton Kutcher's vision of AI-generated movies replacing traditional production. Finally, the episode explores the recent tech layoffs, examining the multifaceted reasons behind them, including overhyped AI expectations, economic conditions, and the inflated value of tech talent. The host provides insights and advice for both companies and employees navigating these changes. 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 01:06 - The Risks of AI Clones: A Cautionary Tale 11:35 - Harvard Study on Meeting Behaviors 21:54 - The Future of AI in Entertainment 29:18 - Tech Layoffs and the Role of AI 41:02 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ai #techtrends #layoffs #chatbots #media

You've heard me say on many occasions we're shifting into the age of distrust. This week I'm exploring what that means and why it's happening as I dive into the complex world of deepfakes and cybersecurity with Jason Thatcher, founder of Breacher.ai. Together we're the evolving threats posed by AI technologies. In our conversation, we cover how deepfakes are created and the ethical challenges they pose. While this reality often creates a polarized conversation, we'll bring a balanced view on AI, discussing its potential for both innovation and misuse. We also explore practical strategies for individuals and organizations to shield themselves against digital deception, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and situational awareness. I think you'll find the entire episode filled with actionable advice on how to navigate the challenges of this advanced technology in our everyday lives. Hopefully, by understanding the mechanics behind deepfakes and learning how to enhance our defenses, we can better prepare ourselves for a future where digital authenticity is constantly questioned. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher dives into the rapidly evolving world of deepfakes and cybersecurity. It focuses on the implications of living in an age where distinguishing real from fake becomes increasingly challenging. Joined by Jason Thatcher, founder of Breacher AI, they explore the dangers posed by deepfakes, share anecdotes of impactful scams, and offer practical advice and strategies to mitigate these threats. From understanding the underlying human behaviors exploited by deepfakes to implementing simple countermeasures, this conversation aims to keep professionals, individuals, and families aware and prepared in the face of emerging digital threats. 00:00 -Introduction 02:01 - The Rapid Evolution of AI and Its Implications 05:37 - The Ethical Dilemma: Balancing Innovation with Security 12:17 - Understanding Deep Fakes: Definitions and Dangers 17:02 - Awareness and Education: The First Line of Defense 25:56 - Emerging Threats and How to Prepare 31:49 - Strategies for Mitigating Cybersecurity Risks 36:14 - Building Trust and Verification in the Digital Age 46:50 - Emerging Technologies and the Future of Cybersecurity 55:30 - Reflecting on the Impact and Future of AI #deepfake #ai #cybersecurity #ethics #artificialintelligence

One of the only things we can count on in life is change, and this week is no exception. As usual, the tsunami of tech advancements and changes pushes forward, and I'm covering some of the ones I found most significant. Thanks as always to the community of you that listen, share ideas, and pass along encouraging messages. If there is anything I can do to continue improving the updates, don't hesitate to share. And, if you found this update helpful, do me a favor and share it with a friend. With that, let's get to it. Dell Employee's Revolt - You won't find "give your employees an ultimatum" in any leadership books, and there's a good reason why. Not only does it not work, but you'll quickly find yourself with a bigger mess than you started with. Dell is learning that lesson the hard way when more than half of their employees spun the cylinder, smiled, and pulled the trigger. Anthropic Claude 3.5 Sonnet - The GenAI wars continue and Anthropic is the latest to throw down. Sonnet 3.5 is out, and it's beating its competitors in benchmarks and human feedback. So, do you switch tools, wait for the next move, or something in between? With the way things are moving, it's like watching the cord cutter movement play out all over again. AI Job Stealing - Humans will always have a role in their company...at least they willl until they don't. Or at least that's what a recent leader shared after he and his 60-person team were eliminated after they successfully automated all their function's work. However, did AI really "steal" their jobs or was the writing on the wall all along and everyone was too busy playing with their AI tools to notice? Sex Robots - Well, the Siths of AI continue keeping pace with their Jedi counterparts as a company in China announced it would be "enhancing" their sex robots with generative AI as early as this summer. While I don't see walking, talking sex robots going mainstream anytime soon, it is a concerning indicator of what's to come. AI Text-to-Video Developments - AI Text-to-video seems to be following a similar path to its AI text-to-image counterparts, now making it possible for consumers to simply type their animated ideas into existence. Like much of the advancements we see, there's a lot of potential for good held in tension with the potential for bad. Or, who knows, maybe we'll land squarely in the middle with an even bigger tidal wave of AI-generated garbage. Show Notes: In this week's Weekly Update, Christopher discusses Dell's controversial ultimatum regarding remote work and its impact on employee morale. The episode also explores recent advancements in AI models, including Anthropic’s Claude 3.5 language model, and the implications for the workplace. Other topics include text-to-video technology, the integration of generative AI into sex robots in China, and the potential risks and benefits of automation tools like InVideo AI. Tune in to understand how these developments intersect with business, technology, and human experience. 00:00 - Introduction 01:20 - Dell's Remote Work Ultimatum 13:00 - Anthropic's Claude 3.5 Model 18:36 - AI's Impact on Job Security 30:45 - AI in Sex Robots 34:42 - Luma Labs: Advancements in Text-to-Video AI 42:33 - InVideo AI: Automating Video Creation 46:53 - Final Thoughts and Warnings #ai #techtrends #futureofwork #ai4good #ethics

Ever wondered why some organizations soar while others struggle to keep up? While it's a complicated mix, one secret often lies in how they develop their managers. This week, we're diving into the critical world of manager development with a special focus on new managers. This week, I explored the essential tools and tactics necessary for cultivating successful managers from the start. Joining me in the conversation is Eric Girard, an author, seasoned trainer, and expert in managerial excellence. Together, we unpacked the transformative power of effective management training. We also highlighted how getting it right doesn't just boost individual performance but elevates entire teams, reshaping the future of an organization. As usual, you can expect a blend of practical advice, innovative strategies, and real-world examples aimed at enhancing manager skills across the board. Whether you're an aspiring leader or an established executive, this conversation will help you either build a robust team or refine your current approach. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher is joined by Eric Girard, CEO of Girard Training Solutions and author of 'Lead Like a Pro,' to discuss the distinction between managers and leaders, and why it's crucial to build effective managers. Eric shares his extensive experience in learning and development from Silicon Valley to running his own company, emphasizing the importance of empathy, delegation, and relationship building in management. Key topics include setting SMART goals, coaching, feedback, and managing up. The conversation also explores how managers can significantly impact their team's mental health and overall well-being. 00:00 - Introductions 03:44 - The Distinction Between Managers and Leaders 06:19 - Challenges and Misconceptions in Management 13:30 - Essential Skills for Effective Management 17:33 - Delegation and Avoiding Micromanagement 26:49 - Handling Pressure and Change Management 30:01 - Understanding Priorities and Risk Analysis 31:35 - The Importance of Managing Up 33:34 - Flexibility and Adaptability in Management 45:29 - The Role of Empathy in Leadership 53:07 - Concluding Thoughts on Effective Management #leadership #management #coaching #strategy #futureofwork

With that, we've made it through another week, and with it comes another list of interesting developments at the intersection of business, tech, and human experience. This week's are a little unique in that there is a red thread that runs through them all. As always, thanks to the community of you who send along topics and feedback. With that, let's hit it. Microsoft Recalls Recall - It's never fun to admit when there's egg all over your face, especially when you're the one who put it there. However, Microsoft stepped up to the plate after the intense reaction to Microsoft Recall and while they haven't completely recalled the product, they have changed it so you have to opt-in versus opt-out. Who says we can't inspire change? Apple & OpenAI's $0 Deal - You don't typically see gentleman's agreements between massive companies, and I'm sure in this case, there were still plenty of lawyers involved. However, the partnership between Apple and OpenAI doesn't appear to have a formal dollar amount associated with it. While that's led many to go the conspiratorial route, there seems to be some pretty logical explanations on why that's where they landed. Apple's OnDevice AI - Speaking of conspiracies, many have been wondering if Apple Intelligence is just a fancy way to distract you from your data being taken and sent elsewhere. However, digging deeper into the capabilities of Apple's OnDevice model, it's clear we're moving into an age where Internet connectivity and massive data centers won't be a dependency for fully capable GenAI. That's probably good since everyone demanding a digital Maybach for occasional AI use isn't terribly sustainable. Snowden Calls Out OpenAI - While OpenAI adding a former NSA Director to their board may have slipped past many, Edward Snowden wasn't one of them. He also had some pretty harsh words to say about the decision, letting people know "They've been warned." However, while he's got some legitimate reasons for concern, is this really the government conspiracy many have been led to believe? I'm not convinced based on OpenAI's needs as a company and the purpose of board members. Autonomous Warfare - While autonomous sharpshooters have historically been reserved for sci-fi military movies, a video I watched this week showcases how science fiction is quickly becoming a reality. And, while some are suggesting there's no reason for concern since we'll just live in a world where robots fight robots, I can't help but wonder about their choice of weapons. If I were in a fight against a robot, a gun wouldn't be my weapon of choice. It'd be a lot more logical, and I'd certainly feel a lot more comfortable if they were walking around with buckets of water. Show Notes: In this week's update, Christopher discusses Microsoft's significant change to its 'Recall' feature, highlighting the consumer pushback that led to a shift from an opt-out to an opt-in model. The episode also unpacks into the intricacies of the Apple and OpenAI partnership, debunking conspiracies around their no-money transaction and emphasizing their mutual benefits. Additionally, we explore Apple's advanced on-device AI model, its implications for data privacy, and the shift towards more localized AI solutions. The episode concludes with a sobering look at the Government's potential involvement in AI companies as well as the role of AI in military technology, featuring autonomous marksman robots and the ethical considerations they raise. 00:00 - Introduction and Weekly Update Overview 01:59 - Microsoft Recall: Privacy Concerns and Changes 08:11 - Apple and OpenAI Partnership: No Financial Exchange 15:49 - Apple's On-Device AI Model: Privacy and Capabilities 27:55 - Snowden's Warning: OpenAI and Government Involvement 38:25 - Autonomous AI in Warfare: Ethical Concerns 44:59 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts #ArtificialIntelligence #Microsoft #Apple #OpenAI #DataPrivacy #TechNews #MilitaryTech

Have you ever wondered what truly drives innovation in the tech world? Is it the rapid development of technology itself, or the people behind the scenes who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table? That's what I'm talking about this week with William A. Adams, a tech advisor at Microsoft. Together we'll explore the often overlooked but essential aspects of diversity in tech. I think you'll find our conversation isn't just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas; it's about understanding how a varied range of backgrounds and viewpoints can lead to breakthrough innovations and a more inclusive tech environment. We also don't shy away from the tough topics and discuss the systemic barriers that still exist, the progress we've made, and the road ahead. Hopefully, our conversation will help you gain an understanding of why inclusivity is not just a moral obligation but a business imperative. Furthermore, you'll glean some tangible steps everyone can take to create a truly inclusive culture. Show Notes: In this episode, Christopher navigates a discussion on diversity in technology with seasoned technologist William A. Adams. They dig into the impact and importance of diversity as we transition into the AI age, highlighting the biases ingrained in AI systems and the steps needed to counteract them. William shares his extensive background in the tech space, from his early years self-teaching computer programming to his impactful career at Microsoft, including his work with the LEAP program to foster more inclusive hiring practices. Together, they explore the human condition's role in these challenges and the urgency of creating equitable systems and humane AI. They encourage proactive engagement, innovation, and the creation of new opportunities in tech to ensure a fair and inclusive future. This episode is a call to action for individuals to leverage their autonomy and influence the direction of AI and technology positively. 00:00 - Introduction 01:46 - William A. Adams: A Tech Journey from the Past to Present 04:58 - The Evolution of Technology and Its Accessibility 10:33 - Diversity in Tech: Beyond the Surface 19:44 - Navigating Cultural and Generational Shifts in the Workplace 29:19 - The Impact of AI on Identity and Work 31:16 - Addressing Bias in AI Systems 36:22 - Creating Opportunities in the Age of AI 46:43 - Leveraging AI for Humanity's Benefit 52:32 - The Future of AI: Opportunities and Responsibilities 58:46 - Concluding Thoughts on AI and Human Agency #diversity #ai #futureofwork #bias #ethics