#170: AI Is Moving Faster Than Leadership—How to Lead Without Losing What Makes Us Human

Data, AI, and the Identity Crisis Facing Modern Leadership In this powerful, forward-thinking episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast, host Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Michael Clark — esteemed strategist, author, and global advisor on artificial intelligence (AI), data, and emerging technologies. If you're a leader, innovator, creator, or change-maker today, you already know this: technology isn't just transforming what we do — it's reshaping who we are. And the real question isn't whether AI will impact our future… it's how we will respond, lead, and live without losing what makes us human. Why This Episode Matters Now As AI accelerates faster than organizations and institutions can absorb, the confidence gap becomes a strategic vulnerability. Leaders feel the pressure to adopt AI, harness data, and modernize work — but many struggle to reconcile rapid innovation with human-centered purpose, identity, and community. In this episode, Michael Clark challenges the traditional narrative around technology. Rather than viewing AI as a disruptor to be feared or a tool to be controlled, Michael reframes it as a catalyst moment — a pivotal opportunity for humanity to rethink our systems and realign our values. Through deep insight, strategic clarity, and narrative wisdom, he shows listeners how to lead with confidence in the age of AI, unlocking not just productivity but purpose. Who Michael Clark Is — Credibility You Can Trust Michael Clark is a globally recognized strategist and advisor with an unparalleled ability to help leaders, governments, and investors understand what to do with AI, data, and emerging technology — not just what to think about. He bridges the worlds of innovation and human potential with humanity, ethics, and long-term thinking. His work is rooted in: Leading large-scale transformation and innovation across sectors Advising decision-makers on the responsible deployment of AI Developing new models for education and work that are being adopted globally Reframing data as a real-world asset Clarifying strategy for organizations facing disruption Integrating human identity, community, and purpose with technology Michael's perspective isn't theoretical — it's shaped by real-world experience, both at the intersection of innovation and implementation. About His Book — Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential In his breakthrough narrative work, Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential, Michael captivates early readers and thought leaders alike. Described by reviewers as a modern-day Alchemist for the digital age, Our Moment goes beyond instruction and analysis — it uses story to explore how humanity can learn, work, build, and live alongside AI, data, and emerging technologies without losing what makes us human. Rather than prescribing technical steps or theory, the book: Illuminates how identity and purpose shape our relationship with technology Articulates a vision of human-centered innovation Reimagines the future of learning, work, and society Inspires readers to lead with confidence in an AI-infused world This narrative-driven approach sets Our Moment apart as both a philosophical guide and strategic compass for leaders of all kinds. What You'll Learn in This Episode Listeners to this episode will gain: ✔ New frameworks for leading with confidence in the AI era ✔ Actionable insights on integrating data and technology into strategy without sacrificing human dignity ✔ Visionary perspective on how future systems — from education to governance — must evolve ✔ Clarity around AI as a catalyst for purpose, not just change ✔ Strategies for resilient, ethical leadership in uncertainty Whether you are a CEO, entrepreneur, educator, policymaker, or aspiring leader, this conversation will equip you with the tools, mindsets, and confidence to thrive — not just survive — as technology reshapes our world. Who This Episode Is For This episode is essential listening for: Executives and founders looking to integrate AI strategically Leaders in technology, innovation, and transformation Professionals navigating career reinvention in the digital age Human-centered thinkers focused on purpose and impact Anyone curious about the future of work, learning, and community Connect With Michael Clark 📘 Book: Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential 🌐 Official website: https://ourmoment.ai/ 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mclarkglobal 📧 Contact: [e-mail]