The Psychology of Change: Why AI Adoption Starts in the Brain with Rosanne Werner

What really drives AI transformation: technology or people? In the latest episode of AI Heroes & Headaches, I sat down with Rosanne Werner, CEO of XcelerateIQ, to unpack what truly drives transformation inside global enterprises. Rosanne has led data and culture change at Coca-Cola and now helps organizations turn AI resistance into adoption, and data into a movement. Here are a few insights that stopped me in my tracks: 1️⃣ Data is contagious. Real transformation spreads through people, not programs. A five-minute habit can start a movement. 2️⃣ Change is psychological. Four parts of the brain resist disruption — the leaders who design for safety, not fear, build faster adoption. 3️⃣ Beware “watermelon metrics.” Ninety-percent adoption may look good on a dashboard, but engagement tells the real story. 4️⃣ AI can amplify inclusion. Used thoughtfully, it gives more voices a seat at the table and helps leaders bridge personality and communication gaps. Rosanne’s perspective is a reminder that technology alone doesn’t create intelligent enterprises. Trust, curiosity, and people do. Because transformation is about more than technology: it’s about people. Listen to Episode 7 of AI Heroes & Headaches now.