The AI Era Might Reward the Most Human Leaders W/David Hanrahan

As AI reshapes the workplace, many leaders feel pressure to become technical experts overnight. But in this conversation with David Hanrahan, SVP of People Success at SolarWinds, the focus shifts to a different idea: the leaders who succeed in the AI era may simply be the most human. David reflects on moving from needing to be heard in every meeting to listening more, asking better questions, and amplifying others’ ideas. He also pushes back on AI doomerism—arguing that while technology will change how we work, it won’t eliminate the need for curiosity, judgment, and human leadership. Most importantly, he shares the leadership skill he’s trying to level up right now: not AI expertise, but becoming a better human outside of work—because how we show up in life ultimately shapes how we lead.