What’s Next?

OpenClaw went from side project to 150,000 GitHub stars in weeks. It's an open-source AI agent that actually does things—manages your inbox, books travel, runs shell commands. Not a chatbot. A digital employee. Security researchers are raising alarms. Users are calling it "the closest thing to JARVIS." Moltbook is where it gets weird. Someone built a social network for AI agents. No humans allowed. Agents post, comment, argue, upvote each other. Scientists are now studying what happens when AI talks to AI at scale. AI is becoming more autonomous. The question is whether we're keeping up—or being left behind by tools we no longer fully understand.

In this conversation, Tamara Lechner and Wendi Lord discuss the role of AI in enhancing human creativity and productivity. They explore how AI can serve as a thought partner, aiding in ideation and personal growth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of crafting effective prompts and creating an optimal environment for innovation. They also highlight the balance between quantity and quality in productivity, cautioning against over-reliance on AI while recognizing its potential to generate ideas.

Welcome to a special episode of What's Next?, where Tamara Lechner is joined by two AI co-hosts generated by Google's Notebook LM. In This Episode: Tamara experiments with Google’s NotebookLM, an AI-powered research tool, uploading three unique sources: Her team's AI for Human Flourishing framework, crafted with colleagues from the Harvard AI for Human Flourishing community. A book by her friend Ali Khan and the SHAPE team, which delves into people and culture analytics connecting performance to flourishing Tyler VanderWeele’s latest Global Flourishing Study, offering insights on worldwide wellbeing. Her AI co-hosts chose to spotlight:  AI and Human Flourishing Framework: Exploring how AI can align with human values to enhance well-being and productivity. AI in Healthcare and Work: From personalized health recommendations to boosting workplace creativity by automating repetitive tasks. Community, Ethics, and Connection: The role of AI in building stronger communities and cultivating meaningful connections. Spirituality and Purpose: Can AI help rekindle a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection in the digital age? Why Listen? This episode offers a unique experience  (learn more about Notebook LM here)  as 2 non-humans reflect (not really, they process through predictive analytics) on how AI can contribute positively to human lives.  Share your thoughts or feedback by emailing: [email protected]

In this episode of What's Next?, we are joined by Blair Ryan, founder of Kindred.AI and Waiting Room, to explore the evolving role of AI in enhancing emotional intelligence and empathy. Together, we dive into how AI could revolutionize therapy, the ethical dilemmas it presents, and its impact on human relationships and collaboration. Tamara and Blair discuss how AI is being used to foster empathy and enhance emotional intelligence, the potential for AI to revolutionize therapy and mental health care,  ethical considerations in the intersection of AI and human emotion, and the impact of AI on human relationships. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of AI and its role in shaping a more empathetic world!

In this episode of What's Next?, Tamara sits down with Dr. Paul Zak, a trailblazer in the field of neuroscience, to explore the brain science behind human connection and why that is so important to flourishing. Paul shares insights from his extensive research and the cutting-edge neuroscience technology his companies are developing. We dive into the nuances between flourishing, happiness, and emotional fitness, and how they impact our lives. Paul introduces us to Immersion, a groundbreaking platform that uses real-time neuroscience to track emotional resonance and attention through wearable technology. He explains how positive connections can be measured—and why aiming for six each day is key to a thriving life. We also learn how the Immersion platform predicts the market impact of entertainment, training, and advertising with remarkable accuracy by tapping into the brain's valuation of experiences. This episode is about understanding neuroscience's power in shaping how we connect, engage, and remember.

 In this episode, we take a deep dive into the intersection of flourishing and AI. Tamara explores how AI can enhance personal relationships, support wellbeing, and foster personal growth in the workplace. She also dives into some groundbreaking work happening with the AI for Human Flourishing Working Group and Think Tank. From helping individuals feel good and function well to creating environments that empower people to reach their full potential, this episode unpacks the transformative role AI plays in both personal and professional realms. 

In this episode, Christopher Lafayette, a visionary technologist and humanitarian, joins the conversation to discuss the evolving relationship between AI and society. The discussion delves into the tug-of-war between AI and art, highlighting how technology reshapes creativity while maintaining human expression's essence. Christopher provides insights into AI’s transformative role in healthcare, covering advancements from telemedicine to surgical training, and shares how his platform, GatherVerse, is one of the ways he works to democratize technology by amplifying diverse voices. Tamara and Christopher also explore his vision for the future impact of AI on society, advocating for a world where technology enhances human flourishing. Learn more about the AI Evolve Summit here.

In this podcast episode, Tamara Lechner sits down with Rebecca Kirstein Resch, founder of Inqli, to delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing human creativity, connection, and flourishing. The discussion highlights how Inqli leverages AI to facilitate meaningful networking and connections, promoting critical thinking and creativity. They also address the potential benefits and challenges of AI, underscoring the importance of responsible development to ensure that AI contributes positively to human flourishing. Additionally, they explore the pervasive presence of AI in our daily lives and envision a future where AI takes over mundane tasks, allowing us to focus on more engaging work.

In this episode of "What's Next?", Tamara Lechner chats with Bryce Tully, co-founder of Innerlogic, about the intersection of AI, culture, and performance psychology. Bryce shares his journey from sports psychology to creating a company that uses AI to help organizations harness culture as a competitive advantage. They delve into the role of AI in shaping organizational culture, the importance of human connection in the age of AI, and the future of AI's impact on the workplace. This conversation offers valuable insights into how technology can support human flourishing while maintaining the essential human elements of creativity and collaboration.

In this week's episode of What's Next?, Tamara sits down with Ali Khan, CEO of Shape, to explore the groundbreaking discovery that flourishing is the super-metric driving productivity and other key workplace drivers. Ali explains how many employee surveys are counterproductive and how Shape's innovative instrument can build a flourishing mindset to accelerate growth up to 10x faster. They discuss the importance of creating a safe space for measuring employee performance drivers and the crucial role of AI in this process. Ali delves into the complexities of developing indices for measuring flourishing and productivity and shares his vision of AI's future.   Join the Conversation: Follow Us: Stay updated with the latest episodes  Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Subscribe: Don’t miss out on future episodes—subscribe to What's Next? wherever you listen to podcasts.

As season 2 begins, Tamara reconnects with Scott Wolfson to delve into his transformative "forking journey" and his latest venture with Valize. He discusses his partnership with strategy guru Rita McGrath and Centaurian Kes Sampanthar to reinvent management consulting and explores the concept of "unfair value" in the context of AI-driven business transformation. Scott also delves into the human future of work, data-driven motivational personas, and his vision for AI-augmented thought leadership. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of AI and human potential, showcasing how emerging technologies can foster both personal and professional growth.

In this belated season finale, Tamara welcomes special guest Scott Wolfson for a profound exploration of life's most transformative moments. Discover how devastating setbacks can become unexpected gifts, and learn to harness the power of purpose as your guiding North Star. Scott shares intimate insights on embracing serendipity, conquering perfectionism, and wielding psychological safety as a potent leadership tool. Don't miss this captivating conclusion that will leave you inspired and eager for Season 2! (which launches next week)  

In this mini-episode, Tamara talks about her own What's Next? (because it's unfolding in real-time). She'll share how a fortuitous favor turned into an opportunity. Why what you think you want might not show up in the way you expect and she'll share why "I did it my way" seems to be a lifelong theme. 

In this empowering episode of What's Next, special guest, Vimala Thangaveloo,  corporate counsel turned executive coach joins Tamara to share her wealth of knowledge and experience in guiding traditionally underrepresented women to find their voice and strength in the professional realm. As we explore topics like overcoming imposter syndrome, leveraging support networks during job transitions, and strategies to quiet the "itty bitty shitty committee," Vimala shares invaluable insights that resonate with anyone looking to redefine their career paths. Recorded on the eve of International Women's Day, this episode is a tribute to the progress and collective power of women supporting women in their quest for belonging and success in diverse fields. Join us for a celebration of courage, change, and empowerment.

In this transformative episode we dive into a unique meditation session designed to prepare both fidgety skeptics and deep meditators for the rigors of an interview. Whether you're gearing up for your dream job interview or seeking to enhance your communication skills, this guided meditation offers practical techniques to calm your nerves, sharpen your focus, and present your best self. Led by renowned meditation experts, this session will equip you with the tools to approach your next interview with confidence, clarity, and a sense of calm, regardless of your experience with meditation. Join us to transform interview anxiety into an opportunity for personal growth and professional success.

This week on "What's Next," we're diving deep into the pivotal moments of career transitions, unpacking the crucial question: When is the right time to pivot? In a world where linear career paths are becoming less common, knowing the perfect timing for a successful pivot can be both an art and a science. We'll explore the signs that signal it's time to make a move, the factors to consider before taking the leap, and how to align your pivot with your personal and professional goals. Whether you're contemplating a small shift or a radical career transformation, this episode will equip you with insights and strategies to make your transition smooth, timely, and ultimately successful. Join us as we navigate the when of pivoting, and discover how to turn uncertainty into opportunity.

In this episode, we dive into the complex and often murky waters of career pivoting. We'll explore the essential concept of The Science of Mattering, understanding how feeling significant can impact our career transitions. Loneliness, a common but seldom discussed aspect of changing careers, gets a spotlight, revealing its effects and how to combat it. Difficult employees often make the pivot process even more challenging; we'll share strategies for dealing with them effectively.We'll also unpack the '5 80's of Struggling' Plus, discover a cool resume tool that can help you stand out in the job market and make your pivot smoother.Lastly, taking care of yourself should never take a backseat. Tune in to gain insights and practical tips for managing the complexities of changing careers with grace and resilience.

In this special mini-episode of "What's Next," host Tamara Lechner revisits the powerful themes of curiosity, courage, and serendipity that have emerged from the first nine episodes. Through a reflective exploration, Tamara highlights how these three elements are crucial in navigating non-linear careers and making successful pivots. Whether it's the spark of curiosity that opens new doors, the courage to step through them, or the serendipitous moments that guide our paths, listeners will gain insights into harnessing these forces for personal and professional growth. Join us for an inspiring session that encourages embracing the unexpected and taking bold steps toward a fulfilling career journey.

This week Tamara speaks with her Apricty.pro cofounder, Britta Klokotschnik. With a focus on play, curiosity, learning, and teamwork, we explore the transformative power of a playful approach, the necessity of lifelong learning, and the magic of finding your dream team in the AI era. They also talk about the pivot from school to work. Listen for inspiring stories and key insights on navigating the AI-driven job market with creativity and collaboration.

In this final episode of our 8-episode deep dive with Eric Fraser, we explore the dynamic world of AI entrepreneurship, tackling the uncertainties of career pivots, the importance of social connections in remote work, and the balance between mistake tolerance and entrepreneurial risks. We delve into the decision-making process of bootstrapping versus seeking investors for tech ventures and discuss the rapidly changing landscape of AI. This episode offers a blend of practical advice, real-life stories, and expert insights, making it a valuable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of the AI industry, whether in career transition, remote team management, or entrepreneurial endeavors.

This week Tamara dives into the continuous journey of integrating AI into our professional and personal lives. We discuss the intriguing concept of AI and consciousness, reflecting on how close technology is to simulating human awareness. The emergence of personal GPTs is at the forefront of our conversation, as we consider their impact on daily routines and tasks. Additionally, we critically assess AI's role as an alternative to human interaction, exploring the implications for social connectivity. This episode is a deep dive into the ongoing transformation AI brings to our world and our very definition of companionship and consciousness.

In Week 6 of our series on non-linear career paths, "Pivot Playbook" delves into the complexities and opportunities of pivoting careers. Host Tamara, guided by her AI co-pilot, explores the nuances of this transition, addressing key challenges, essential skills, and the importance of networking in the AI industry. The episode features a Q&A session where Tamara's AI co-pilot poses insightful questions, offering listeners a unique perspective on navigating the AI landscape from a Coach's perspective. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career change.

In episode five, Tamara and Eric usher in the New Year with resolutions in hand, they delve into the public's perception of AI fears. We'll dissect how media reporting can influence these anxieties, particularly examining the New York Times versus Open AI case as a pivotal study. The conversation pivots to mindset and the vast opportunities awaiting those who navigate the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) world with agility. We explore strategies for managing the turbulence associated with rapid technological change and propose ways to transform fear into a drive for innovation and growth. Tune in for an engaging dialogue that equips you with the mindset to turn the AI tide in your favor this year.

In this week's episode, Tamara and Eric delve into the complexities of pivoting to an AI career, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals, embracing intellectual humility, and being clear enough to "unpivot" if that's what your gut tells you. They also touch on the flexibility of Large Language Models (LLMs), the potential of a whole new way of defining success and the value of taking a break.  They also touch on insights from a new Danish study on AI- predictions of when individuals will die. Spoiler alert- we don't want to know when our death dates are.

In episode three of our eight-week AI career pivot series, we engage in a discussion about the invaluable lessons sales and marketing leaders can glean from Eric's career transformation. We touch on the importance of aligning one's purpose and values with their product, and we unravel the conundrum that tech billionaires face in understanding the everyday human's interaction with emerging tech. We get tactical about setting clear, actionable goals for product development, client engagement, and the art of strategic commitment—deciding on the crucial 20% to which we say 'yes.' We conclude with insights on maintaining a consistent through-line that guides a fulfilling career and clarify the nuances of 'open' versus 'open source' in the AI sphere. Join us as we explore these intricate topics, delivering a blend of strategy, philosophy, and practical advice.

In this second episode, Tamara Lechner and Eric Fraser reconvene to reflect on the past week's achievements and set new goals. They delve into the latest and most thrilling AI innovations and they consider the open versus closed source debate and ponder democratization. The discussion shifts to essential strategies for preparing for a career pivot, emphasizing the importance of leaving on good terms and maintaining professional relationships. They also explore educational resources for a successful transition into the AI field. 

In this inaugural episode of What's Next? host Tamara Lechner welcomes Eric Fraser, a seasoned professional embarking on his second significant career pivot. Together, they lay the foundation for understanding AI's evolving landscape by introducing essential terminology and discussing AI's current limitations. Delving into the ethical dimensions and consciousness in AI, they set the stage for deep, thought-provoking discussions. This series promises to explore how AI shapes careers, influences personal growth, and its broader impact on society, all while considering the balance between innovation and responsibility.