33 - Leading Through Tech Change: The Balance of Empathy and Pragmatism
Navigating Leadership, Culture, and AI Adoption with Jake Schaefer
In a rapidly changing business landscape, leaders are tasked with navigating technological transformation while maintaining organizational culture and employee engagement. In this episode of the AI & Data Driven Leadership Podcast, Dean Guida speaks with Jake Schaefer, Founder and CEO of Renewed Minds Consulting, about authentic leadership, change management strategies, and the human side of AI adoption. Their conversation offers practical insights for leaders seeking to implement new technologies while empowering their teams.
Leading Change with Empathy and Authenticity
Leadership is often a solitary journey, but building strong support networks—both inside and outside the organization—can make all the difference. Jake emphasizes the value of peer leadership networks and mastermind groups to provide accountability, perspective, and guidance during times of change.
AI adoption in organizations brings both opportunity and concern. Employees may worry about job security, ethical implications, or the impact on their creativity. Jake stresses the importance of acknowledging these fears, maintaining transparency, and implementing pilot programs to ease transitions. Ethical frameworks and clear communication help build trust and engagement during technological change.
Authentic leadership is essential throughout this process. Leaders who embrace their unique strengths and model vulnerability foster trust, engagement, and resilience in their teams. By aligning values with actions and focusing on the willing majority, leaders can drive sustainable change without burnout or disengagement.
About Jake Schaefer
Jake Schaefer is Founder and CEO of Renewed Minds Consulting, bringing over 25 years of experience in leadership coaching, organizational psychology, and human behavior. He specializes in helping executives and teams navigate complex change, develop authentic leadership styles, and implement strategies that foster organizational resilience and growth.
About Renewed Minds Consulting
Renewed Minds Consulting partners with organizations to strengthen leadership, culture, and workforce adaptability. The firm offers coaching, consulting, and change management solutions designed to align organizational vision with daily behaviors, enhance team engagement, and ensure successful adoption of new technologies, including AI.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Key Episode Highlights
How peer leadership networks support resilience and decision-making.
Strategies for authentic leadership that builds trust and engagement.
Approaches to addressing employee resistance to AI adoption.
Using data and feedback to inform change management strategies.
Leadership as a lifestyle: balancing commitment, resilience, and self-care.
Conclusion
This episode highlights that leading through change requires more than technical expertise—it demands empathy, authenticity, and a thoughtful approach to AI adoption. Leaders who focus on human-centered strategies, peer networks, and ethical frameworks can foster resilient, adaptable organizations ready for the future.
Explore Slingshotapp.io to learn more about AI-driven leadership solutions, and if you’re a qualified leader interested in sharing your insights, apply to be a guest on the AI & Data Driven Leadership Podcast here.
