#04 AI, Communication, and the Hard Realities of Change with Dave Van Bennekum

In this continuation of our conversation with David Van Bennekum, author of the first self-help book on national security, we explore how AI and technology can bridge communication gaps, the power of playfulness in creating common ground, and the difficult but rewarding journey of extending beyond our comfort zones. We discuss why comedians are masters of vulnerability, how adults create self-imposed limitations, and why transformation is never a solo journey.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:
• How to use AI to translate between technical jargon and storytelling
• Why absurdity and playfulness create space for genuine connection
• The Steve Martin approach to building unignorable confidence
• How modern systems optimize confidence out of young people
• Why vulnerability is universal across all professions and backgrounds
• The importance of community and ecosystem in any transformation journey
• How to embrace reality's fragility as its greatest beauty