The Generalist Advantage

E38: The Age of the Polymath: How to Stay Relevant in the AI Era with Dr. Angela C. Meyers.

Why Listen: 

You’ve heard the term ‘polymath’—now you’re wondering if it describes you, or if it should. 

Episode Description: 

What does it mean to thrive as a polymath in the age of AI—and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Angela C. Myers, one of the first scholars to formally study modern polymathy. Drawing from her pioneering dissertation, her experience in organizational development, and her vision for the future of work, Angela explains why generalists with deep expertise across domains are not just valuable—they're essential. We explore how polymaths can drive innovation, how organizations can adapt to the new demands of AI-driven change, and why lifelong, self-directed learning is the key to staying relevant and fulfilled in a rapidly evolving world. 

Episode Highlights: 

  • Polymathy Defined: The distinction between generalists, polymaths, and why “polymathic” might be the most accessible term for modern multi-specialists. 

  • Future-Proofing Work: Why AI makes polymathic talent a business imperative—and how to spot it. 

  • Learning vs. Knowing: How understanding whether someone thrives on learning or knowing can transform team design and retention. 

  • Organizational Adaptation: Practical ways businesses can shift hiring, development, and innovation strategies for the polymathic age. 

    • Personal Strategy: Tips for specialists looking to build polymathic resilience and agility in their careers.

    About Angela: 

    Dr. Angela C. Meyers is a leading voice in the modern polymathy movement. She authored the world’s first doctoral dissertation on polymathy—In Pursuit of Polymaths: Understanding Renaissance Persons of the 21st Century—and has dedicated her career to advancing interdisciplinary learning, leadership, and social innovation. 

    With a background spanning nine years at the U.S. Center for Leadership Development and six years at the Executive Office of the President, Dr. Meyers brings unmatched insight into government, systems thinking, and human potential. Today, she leads a vibrant online community for curious, mission-driven minds through her platform Polymaths Place on Facebook, and teaches The Polymathic Method to organizations and individuals looking to thrive in complexity. 

    Explore more of her work at www.drangelameyers.com, follow her insights on LinkedIn, or dive into her videos at YouTube.com/@AngelaCMeyers. 

    Find Angela 

    • Website: www.drangelameyers.com 

    • The Polymathic Method: drangelameyers.com/polymathic-method 

    • Doctoral Dissertation: In Pursuit of Polymaths 

    • Facebook Community: Polymaths Place 

    • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drangelacmeyers 

    • YouTube: youtube.com/@AngelaCMeyers 

     Find Julie 

    • Connect with Julie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/  

    • Follow the podcast’s LinkedIn page for next Episode release https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-generalist-advantage/?viewAsMember=true  

    • Visit our Website https://8ballclarity.com/  

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