ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.
Listen "Embracing the AI Revolution: Leadership in the Digital Age (EP 19, Ch 2)"
Episode Synopsis
In this conversation, Mark Dronen and Laura Longcore discuss the rapid evolution of AI technology and its implications for leadership and business practices. They emphasize the importance of adopting an AI-first mindset, integrating AI into daily tasks, and the need for leaders to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. The discussion also touches on the challenges of measuring AI adoption and the balance between quantitative and qualitative assessments of engagement.
Key Topics
The AI hype cycle is accelerating, requiring leaders to adapt quickly
Leaders must integrate AI into their existing frameworks and practices
There is a cultural shift needed to embrace AI in workflows
Measuring AI adoption involves both quantitative and qualitative methods
Sales teams have access to powerful AI tools that can improve performance.
AI is a tool for productivity, not a replacement for human interaction
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development. Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 The Acceleration of AI Technology
02:13 Leadership's Role in AI Integration
04:35 Measuring AI Adoption and Engagement
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business. We should talk. Reach us at Elevator321.com.
Key Topics
The AI hype cycle is accelerating, requiring leaders to adapt quickly
Leaders must integrate AI into their existing frameworks and practices
There is a cultural shift needed to embrace AI in workflows
Measuring AI adoption involves both quantitative and qualitative methods
Sales teams have access to powerful AI tools that can improve performance.
AI is a tool for productivity, not a replacement for human interaction
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development. Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 The Acceleration of AI Technology
02:13 Leadership's Role in AI Integration
04:35 Measuring AI Adoption and Engagement
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business. We should talk. Reach us at Elevator321.com.
In God we trust