Your L&D Toolkit for the AI Era: Secrets from an Executive Coach & Ex-Googler

In this episode I sat down with my good friend and former Google colleague, Julian Gay-de-Montella, to talk about something crucial: the future of Learning & Development in an age of AI.

Julian has spent his career cultivating the human side of leadership, from his early days in the Canadian military to designing impactful L&D programs at companies like Ivalua. In our conversation, he makes a powerful case for why human skills like empathy, presence, and storytelling—aren't just "soft skills," but the most critical tools for leaders today.

We get into the details of what this means for L&D professionals, from building a modern toolkit to coaching leaders in the world where many of us feel overwhelmed by constant change. Julian shares personal stories and insights on how to focus on what truly matters, prioritize effectively, and empower people to be their best selves, even when the world feels uncertain.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who believes that technology should serve humans, not the other way around. Follow us if you're curious about topics like finding the balance between automation and our uniquely human capacity for connection.

Connect with Julian:
LinkedIn:   / juliangaydemontella  
Website: https://www.upsideleadershipcoaching....

Key Discussion Points:
00:00 - Introduction to AI and Leadership
02:23 - Julian's Journey and Leadership Philosophy
07:20 - The Importance of Human Skills in Leadership
11:04 - Modern Leadership Toolkit for the AI Era
21:25 - Coaching Leaders in an AI-Driven World
26:27 - Transforming Learning Environments with AI
31:07 - The Evolving Definition of Leadership with AI
35:13 - Navigating Management Challenges
38:21 - Leading Through Uncertainty
42:23 - Prioritizing in Leadership
45:31 - The Importance of Presence and Awareness
48:44 - Empathy in Leadership
52:15 - Empowering Change
55:29 - The Role of Emotional Intelligence
58:51 - Human Skills in the Age of AI

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