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Listen "From Athlete to AI Innovator: Laura Longcore Story (EP 07)"
Episode Synopsis
Laura Longcore, former VP of Worldwide Learning at Microsoft discusses the transformative role of AI in leadership and workforce development, drawing parallels between her experiences in sports and her corporate career at Microsoft.
She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and continuous learning in adapting to the evolving business landscape. Laura shares insights on how peer-to-peer learning and leadership fundamentals contribute to team dynamics and overall success.
Key Topics
AI is reshaping leadership and workforce development
Curiosity and critical thinking are essential skills for future leaders
Peer-to-peer sharing enhances learning and application of AI
Leadership fundamentals remain crucial despite technological advancements
Training programs should focus on business relevance and outcomes
Embracing risks can lead to greater learning opportunities
Sports experiences provide valuable lessons in teamwork and leadership
Continuous learning is vital for adapting to change
A mindset of curiosity fosters innovation and adaptability
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 Introduction to Laura Longcore's Journey
00:37 Leadership Development Through Athletics
01:02 Preparing 60,000 Microsoft Team for the AI Era
02:36 Peer-to-Peer Learning at Microsoft
04:31 The Impact of AI on Workforce Skills
07:32 Leadership Development in the Age of AI
09:43 The Intersection of Sports and Leadership
12:00 Sports Discipline and Life Long Learnings
14:48 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth
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.
#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SalesEffectiveness #TechSales
She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and continuous learning in adapting to the evolving business landscape. Laura shares insights on how peer-to-peer learning and leadership fundamentals contribute to team dynamics and overall success.
Key Topics
AI is reshaping leadership and workforce development
Curiosity and critical thinking are essential skills for future leaders
Peer-to-peer sharing enhances learning and application of AI
Leadership fundamentals remain crucial despite technological advancements
Training programs should focus on business relevance and outcomes
Embracing risks can lead to greater learning opportunities
Sports experiences provide valuable lessons in teamwork and leadership
Continuous learning is vital for adapting to change
A mindset of curiosity fosters innovation and adaptability
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 Introduction to Laura Longcore's Journey
00:37 Leadership Development Through Athletics
01:02 Preparing 60,000 Microsoft Team for the AI Era
02:36 Peer-to-Peer Learning at Microsoft
04:31 The Impact of AI on Workforce Skills
07:32 Leadership Development in the Age of AI
09:43 The Intersection of Sports and Leadership
12:00 Sports Discipline and Life Long Learnings
14:48 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth
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.
#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SalesEffectiveness #TechSales
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