The Divide Is Real: Why Some HR Teams Embrace AI Change and Others Stay Stuck

In this episode of Future Proof HR Podcast, Thomas Kunjappu sits down with Preston Lewis, SVP, Communications and Consultant at Segal Benz, to explore the widening gap in how HR teams approach AI adoption. Some are leaning in with strategy, structure, and reskilling. Others are holding back, risking inefficiency, wasted resources, and talent loss.

With over 25 years advising some of the world’s most recognized brands, Preston shares why communications leaders are often asked to lead AI change, the mindset shifts that separate innovators from laggards, and how to prepare HR and comms teams for rapid transformation without losing the human connection.

Topics Discussed

• Why some HR teams embrace AI while others stall
• The role of communication leaders in driving AI transformation
• Navigating shadow AI and employee use of unsanctioned tools
• Building trust, feedback loops, and psychological safety for change
• New roles emerging in HR and comms for the AI era
• A four-lens framework: Strategy & planning, systems & process, skills & capabilities, platforms & technology
• Balancing in-house skill-building with outside expertise
• Preparing for faster rates of change and evolving roles

If your HR or comms team is struggling to bridge the AI adoption gap, this episode offers a roadmap for closing it — while keeping people, trust, and strategy at the center.

Additional Resources:

Cleary’s AI-powered HR Chatbot
Future Proof HR Community
Preston Lewis on LinkedIn