In this episode of NextWave Conversations, Chris Lukianenko explores the transformative impact of generative AI on workplace productivity and business strategy with two influential guests. Ephraim Patrick, a partner at Mercer, shares his expertise in workforce transformation and productivity improvement. At the same time, Jan Hutton, CEO of the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse, offers a perspective on how AI is revolutionising Australia’s tourism sector by optimising business processes and enhancing employee well-being.

Ephraim discusses the current productivity challenges in Australia and how generative AI can help bridge the gap by reducing busywork and enhancing efficiency. Jan emphasizes the critical balance between productivity and employee well-being, stressing the importance of reimagining business models with AI. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders seeking to future-proof their organisations and leverage AI to stay competitive.

As a partner at Mercer, Ephraim Patrick leads initiatives in workforce transformation and organisational strategy. With experience in human capital strategy and mergers & acquisitions, Ephraim brings a global perspective on workforce productivity and business restructuring. His recent focus on AI-driven productivity highlights his commitment to helping businesses harness technology for sustainable growth.

The CEO of the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW), Jan Hutton has built her career in tourism and change management, with experience in organisations like Deloitte. At ATDW, Jan is pioneering the use of generative AI to promote sustainable tourism and improve data-driven decision-making. Her innovative approach focuses on integrating AI with employee well-being and cultural sustainability.

AI and Productivity Challenges in Australia: Ephraim discusses the productivity issues many Australian organisations face and the role of generative AI in addressing these.

Employee Well-Being in the Age of AI: Jan shares her approach to maintaining a balance between productivity gains and employee well-being as AI tools are adopted.

Human-Machine Collaboration: Insights on how humans and AI can work together to perform repetitive tasks while allowing employees to focus on strategic and creative work.

AI in Strategy Development: Both guests discuss how AI supports strategy development, allowing organisations to keep plans up-to-date and relevant.

AI Adoption in the Tourism Sector: Jan highlights how AI is transforming tourism data management in Australia, setting new standards for data accessibility and efficiency.

Future of Work and AI Skills: The guests explore how emerging AI skills will shape future careers and the essential role of continual learning.

"AI isn't disrupting your job; it's people with AI skills who will." – Ephraim Patrick

"If you work like a computer, your job will be replaced by a computer." – Jan Hutton

"It's not about adopting AI; it's about reimagining your business." – Jan Hutton

Ephraim Patrick: LinkedIn Profile

Jan Hutton: LinkedIn Profile

Australian Tourism Data Warehouse: Website

Mercer’s Workforce 2.0 Report: Read More

Chris welcomes Michael McCallum and Monch Mercader, co-founders of hAIgher Ed, a pioneering AI-driven education solutions company. Together, they discuss the potential for generative AI to revolutionize universities, from automating repetitive administrative tasks to enhancing student engagement and support. Michael and Monch bring unique perspectives: Michael, with his deep-rooted passion for transforming education, and Monch, with his expertise in human-centered product design and user experience.

The conversation covers challenges and opportunities in deploying AI within traditional academic institutions, with examples from universities already benefiting from AI efficiencies. Listeners will hear insights into how AI can reclaim valuable hours for educators, enabling deeper human connections and transforming the student journey into a seamless, personalized experience. Michael and Monch also share forward-looking thoughts on the role AI might play in higher education’s future, making this episode a compelling listen for tech enthusiasts and educators alike.

A seasoned leader in AI and business strategy, Michael McCallum is passionate about transforming higher education. With a background in strategic innovation, Michael co-founded hAIgher Ed to help academic institutions leverage AI, making educational processes more efficient and meaningful. His commitment to education stems from his belief that a robust education system is key to societal progress and equity.

Monch Mercader, an expert in user experience and product design, brings a grounded, human-centered approach to hAIgher Ed’s AI solutions. With experience in creating intuitive interfaces, Monch focuses on making AI accessible and valuable for both staff and students. His dedication to hAIgher Ed’s mission is driven by his vision of using technology to enhance, not replace, human interactions in education.

• The Evolution of AI in Education: Michael and Monch discuss how AI has progressed from rule-based systems to generative capabilities, allowing for more natural interactions.

• AI in Administrative Tasks: They share how generative AI can streamline admissions and other administrative processes, drastically improving efficiency.

• Enhancing Student Experience: The potential for AI to personalize and improve student engagement through customized support.

• Challenges and Mindset Shifts: Addressing the cultural resistance within universities and the need for a shift towards embracing AI.

• The Future of Higher Ed: Predictions on the role of AI in education, including the shift toward more student-centered learning models.

• "The goal is to let the educators focus on what they’re truly passionate about—educating—not on filling out forms."

• "We’re offering universities a way to make the ‘trains run faster,’ enhancing both efficiency and experience for staff and students."

• "If you want to fix society, start with the education system. Generative AI can make a real impact here."

• hAIgher Ed on LinkedIn

• hAIgher Ed website

• InnovateGPT Website

Join host Chris Lukianenko as he sits down with Dave King, CEO of Move 37, for an in-depth discussion on how AI is transforming creative industries. Dave’s unique journey from studying psychology to becoming a pioneer in AI development offers listeners a fascinating look into how human creativity and machine intelligence can come together to shape the future. In this episode, Dave dives deep into his early experiences with the internet in the 1990s, his transition from advertising to AI, and the exciting role that AI plays in supporting creative professionals today.

Dave also shares key insights on the practical applications of generative AI, including how it can act as a thought partner in creative processes and help automate repetitive tasks. From creating personalized tools to brainstorming with AI, Dave highlights how technology is not just replacing tasks but empowering individuals to achieve more. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative professional, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the evolving role of AI in business and creativity.

Guest Bio

Dave King is the founder and CEO of Move 37, a company revolutionizing how organizations leverage generative AI to enhance creativity and innovation. With a background in psychology and extensive experience in digital strategy and AI consulting, Dave has positioned himself as a leader at the intersection of technology and creativity. Prior to founding MakeGPT, Dave led several creative and advertising agencies, including The Royals, where he explored the synergies between human creativity and machine intelligence.

With a passion for helping organizations integrate AI into their workflows, Dave's work focuses on developing AI-driven solutions that empower individuals to achieve more in their personal and professional lives. His deep understanding of both psychology and technology allows him to bridge the gap between human thought processes and artificial intelligence, offering innovative tools that support critical and creative thinking.

Key Topics Covered

Psychology and AI: Dave’s background in psychology and how it influences his approach to AI and creativity.

Generative AI for Creatives: How generative AI can act as a thought partner for creative professionals, helping with brainstorming and critical thinking.

AI in Business: The practical applications of AI in automating tasks such as content creation, customer service, and financial data analysis.

AI in Creative Industries: Dave’s vision for how AI will reshape creative agencies, from content generation to strategic planning.

Human and Machine Collaboration: The future of collaboration between human creativity and machine intelligence, and the role of AI in enhancing workflow.

Challenges for Junior Creatives: The impact of AI on entry-level roles in creative industries and the potential need for adaptation.

AI as a Tool for Empowerment: How AI empowers individuals and businesses by providing tools that democratize creativity and streamline operations.

Quotes From Dave King

"I think the real advantage of AI in creative industries is not just content generation but enhancing the thoughtful exploration of work."

"AI is not here to replace creativity but to empower it. It helps automate the mundane, so humans can focus on what they do best—innovating and creating."

"Everyone is going to be a tool maker in the future. AI is democratizing creativity, allowing individuals to create tools that suit their personal workflows."

Links

Dave King's LinkedIn

Move 37 Website

InnovateGPT Group