How to Use AI as a Co-Thinker, Not a Competitor episode artwork

EPISODE · Nov 25, 2025 · 32 MIN

How to Use AI as a Co-Thinker, Not a Competitor

from Business Roundtable · host David W. Carr

What does it mean to co-think with AI instead of fearing it?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Philip Topham, Board and Executive AI Advisor, founder of CRAFT Thinking, and co-founder of SavionAI. Philip has published more than 130 essays on AI, is completing a new book on CRAFT Thinking, and helps boards and CEOs turn AI disruption into clarity, foresight, and measurable results.David and Philip explore how small-to-mid-sized professional service firms, executives, and boards can move beyond fear and begin leveraging AI as a tool for leadership, decision-making, and growth. Philip explains how AI is best understood as a “co-thinker”—augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it—and how intentional adoption and governance are key to success.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why AI should be seen as a co-thinker to enhance human creativityHow small businesses can integrate AI affordably without massive budgetsThe importance of governance and intentionality when adopting AIWhy company culture determines how AI should be appliedHow AI can reduce drudgery and free leaders to focus on relationships and growthIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive wrestling with what AI means for your future, this conversation will help you embrace AI as a leadership advantage rather than a threat.Connect with Philip Topham:Website: http://www.philiptopham.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiptophamSubstack: https://savionai.substack.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a Leadership Clarity Call: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What does it mean to co-think with AI instead of fearing it?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Philip Topham, Board and Executive AI Advisor, founder of CRAFT Thinking, and co-founder of SavionAI. Philip has published more than 130 essays on AI, is completing a new book on CRAFT Thinking, and helps boards and CEOs turn AI disruption into clarity, foresight, and measurable results.David and Philip explore how small-to-mid-sized professional service firms, executives, and boards can move beyond fear and begin leveraging AI as a tool for leadership, decision-making, and growth. Philip explains how AI is best understood as a “co-thinker”—augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it—and how intentional adoption and governance are key to success.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why AI should be seen as a co-thinker to enhance human creativityHow small businesses can integrate AI affordably without massive budgetsThe importance of governance and intentionality when adopting AIWhy company culture determines how AI should be appliedHow AI can reduce drudgery and free leaders to focus on relationships and growthIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive wrestling with what AI means for your future, this conversation will help you embrace AI as a leadership advantage rather than a threat.Connect with Philip Topham:Website: http://www.philiptopham.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiptophamSubstack: https://savionai.substack.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a Leadership Clarity Call: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

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This episode is 32 minutes long.

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This episode was published on November 25, 2025.

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What does it mean to co-think with AI instead of fearing it?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Philip Topham, Board and Executive AI Advisor, founder of CRAFT Thinking, and co-founder of SavionAI....

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