The Human Loop Podcast

Ben Stocken
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  • MANAGEMENT

The Human Loop explores what happens at the intersection of human performance and emerging technology. Each episode unpacks how modern leaders can operate at their best while AI transforms the way we work. Powered by Atherio | Lead with Clarity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 2D AGO

    How AI can Impact Your Work Life Balance: Nikki Foster

    In this week’s episode of the Human in the Loop podcast, I sit down with Nikki, Managing Director of Ferox Partners, to explore what AI really means for recruitment, leadership, and the future of work. We unpack how AI can drive speed and efficiency in hiring without losing the human relationships that build trust, culture, and performance. From cultural fit versus skill set, to offshoring, early-career development, and burnout in lean teams. We then delve into the need for businesses to adapt to continuous change and the critical role of resilience and adaptability in maintaining high performance without leading to burnout. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Lunch at Lashings 02:30 – Ferox Partners & Running Lean with AI 06:00 – AI in Recruitment: Efficiency vs Human Judgment 10:30 – Cultural Fit vs Skillset: What Really Matters? 14:45 – Will AI Replace Human Roles? 19:30 – Trust, Emotion & The “Bad Sandwich” Analogy 23:30 – On-Site Client Work & The Value of Human Insight 29:00 – Offshoring vs AI: The Future of Recruitment Models 36:00 – Entry-Level Jobs & The Impact of AI on Early Careers 41:30 – Education, MBAs & Preparing Graduates for AI-First Workplaces 47:00 – Parental Responsibility & Work Ethic in the Next Generation 52:00 – Burnout, Lean Teams & Manager Capability 57:00 – Risk, Development & The Future of Leadership Connect with Nikki - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-foster-21014223/ Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.getatherio.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min

  2. FEB 11

    The Impact of Reactive Fixes on Your Business: Lily Kyriacou

    In this week's episode I sit down with Lily Kyriacou to discuss the challenges of reactive fixes in business, particularly in the context of team dynamics and performance. Lily shares her experiences at Amdaris, where she observed that traditional approaches to problem-solving were inadequate in a rapidly changing environment. We then delve into the need for businesses to adapt to continuous change and the critical role of resilience and adaptability in maintaining high performance without leading to burnout. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Business Challenges 01:23 The Impact of Reactive Fixes 05:32 Understanding Team Dynamics 10:18 The Importance of Adaptability 12:13 Exploring Solutions for Resilience 19:52 Identifying Key Behaviors in Teams 25:34 The Shift from Skills to Job Identities 30:08 Reinventing How We Approach Our People Connect with Lilly - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilykyriacou Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.getatherio.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min

  3. FEB 4

    Amplifying Project Management with AI: Ruth Oates

    In this week's episode, Ruth and I discuss the importance of strategic planning for 2026, emphasising the need for business leaders to reflect on past performance and set clear goals. We explore the integration of AI in the construction industry, highlighting its potential to enhance efficiency and safety. Ruth also addresses the challenges of adopting AI, advocating for treating it as a team member and ensuring proper training for employees. Chapters 00:00 Strategic Planning for the New Year 03:13 AI in the Construction Industry 10:01 Integrating AI as a Team Member 16:59 Enhancing Project Management with AI 21:20 The Future of AI in Construction 30:21 Transforming Construction Through Data and Automation Connect with Ruth - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-oates-864b2b3/?originalSubdomain=uk Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min

  4. JAN 28

    The Weekly Loop: The Power of Purpose & AI growth in Businesses

    In this episode of the Human Loop podcast, I discuss two main topics: the importance of understanding one's purpose in leadership, inspired by a podcast featuring Tony Robbins and Alex Hormozi, and the rising adoption of AI in the workplace, as highlighted by a recent Gallup study. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Leadership and Purpose 03:50 The Rise of AI in the Workplace Watch the conversation with Tony & Alex referenced here: https://youtu.be/xz-ymFOhBAE?si=YZxtgVx_Y7JxGdK7 Study Mentioned: Gallup Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    11 min

  5. JAN 21

    Enhancing Client Experience with AI: Andrew Fahey

    In this week's episode I sit down with Andrew Fahey to discuss the challenges and opportunities for CEOs in 2026, emphasising the importance of realistic optimism. We explore the role of AI in transforming professional services, the necessity of human skills in a tech-driven world, and the innovative approaches Briars is taking to enhance client experience and internal processes. Chapters 00:00 Navigating 2026: Realistic Optimism for CEOs 02:57 Briars: Global Expansion and Professional Services 05:56 AI Disruption in Professional Services 09:00 The Human Element in AI Integration 11:47 Transforming Client Experience with AI 15:01 Internal Use Cases for AI in Leadership 19:58 The Future of Onboarding and Human Skills 24:39 Generational Challenges in Professional Services 29:48 Conclusion: Embracing Change for Success Connect with Andrew - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewfahey/ Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min

  6. JAN 14

    Navigating AI Adoption Challenges for Your Business: Charlie Voller Barnes

    In this episode I'm joined by Charlie Voller Barnes to discuss the intersection of human performance and AI, exploring the challenges organisations face in adopting AI technologies. We delve into the importance of clarity in goals, the role of people in transformation, and the necessity of continuous feedback and experimentation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Human Performance and AI 02:03 The State of AI in Business 05:05 Understanding Transformation Failures 08:41 The Role of People in Transformation 13:31 Experimentation and Incremental Change 19:31 Communicating Change Effectively 30:03 Top Tips for Implementing AI Products Connect with Charlie - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cvollerbarnes/ Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com Connect with The host - Ben Stocken :https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min

  7. JAN 7

    Leadership in 2026: The Old Playbook Is Now a Liability

    In this week's Human Loop I discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in 2026, emphasising the critical role of AI and the necessity for leaders to adapt their strategies. I highlights the importance of human skills, trust, and purpose in driving organisational performance, while also addressing the challenges posed by skill gaps in the workforce. Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com Chapters: 00:00 The State of Leadership in 2026 02:27 Strategic Leadership as a Core Skill 04:22 The Importance of Human Skills and Trust 07:16 Closing the Gap Between Tech and Human Capability Studies Mentioned: Story 1: UK business investment in AI and training https://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/assets/pdfs/media/press-releases/2025-press-releases/lloyds-bank/31.12.2025-lloyds-new-year-flash-business-barometer.pdf Story 2: Survey coverage & additional context https://www.lloydsbank.com/business/resource-centre/insight/business-barometer.html Story 3: Skills gaps & transformation barriers World Economic Forum summary on skills gaps and upskilling priorities https://gloat.com/blog/ai-employment-impact Story 4: AI in the workplace & skills obsolescence https://www.secondtalent.com/resources/future-of-workplace-statistics-that-are-important-to-know/ Connect with The host - Ben Stocken https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    8 min

  8. 12/31/2025

    The Importance of Authentic Leadership: Agni Ghosh

    In this week's episode of The Human Loop, Agni and I discuss the importance of authenticity in leadership and recruitment, the role of honesty in attracting talent, and the impact of AI on the recruitment process. Chapters 00:00 Leadership Failures and Authenticity 03:04 The Role of Honesty in Recruitment 06:04 Speed to Hire: Strategies for Success 08:45 AI Adoption in Recruitment 11:45 The Future of AI in Staffing 14:35 Human vs AI in Recruitment 17:41 Building Trust in Recruitment 20:44 The Importance of Relationships 23:48 Differentiating in a Crowded Market 26:47 Leadership Metrics: Sacrifice and Challenge 29:41 Meaningful Work and Team Success Connect with Agni https://www.linkedin.com/in/agnighosh/ Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager - https://www.atheriohq.com/ Connect with The host - Ben Stocken https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min

  9. 12/24/2025

    The Weekly Loop: The Rise of AI in Business

    In this weekly loop I discuss the latest research and trends in human performance, AI integration in business, employee engagement, and the challenges of burnout. We highlight the significant use of AI in organizations, the concerning decline in employee engagement, and the critical need for effective communication and support for managers and employees to combat burnout and enhance productivity. Powered By Atherio: https://www.atheriohq.com/ Chapters: 00:00 The Rise of AI in Business 02:47 Employee Engagement Trends 06:07 The Burnout Crisis 08:55 AI Training and HR Integration 11:48 Leadership and AI Strategy Disconnect 15:02 Key Takeaways and Future Focus Studies Mentioned: Story 1: The AI Value Gap "The State of AI 2025: Agents, innovation, and transformation" Source: McKinsey & Company URL: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/quantumblack/our-insights/the-state-of-ai Story 2: Manager Engagement Crisis "State of the Global Workplace 2025" Source: Gallup URL: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/state-of-global-workplace Story 3: Burnout at All-Time High "Workforce Trends 2026: Leaders Confront Burnout, Disengagement, and AI-Driven Change" Source: DHR Global URL: https://huntscanlon.com/workforce-trends-2026-leaders-confront-burnout-disengagement-and-ai-driven-change/ Story 4: The AI Training Gap "2025 Talent Trends: Artificial Intelligence in HR" Source: SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Published: February 2025 URL: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/research/2025-talent-trends/ai-in-hr Story 5: The AI Strategy Illusion "Workforce 2025 Global Insights Report" Source: Korn Ferry URL: https://www.kornferry.com/about-us/press/korn-ferry-reveals-workforce-2025-research Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager Connect with The host - Ben Stocken https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    18 min

  10. 12/17/2025

    The rise of the SuperAdapters: Miz Rahman

    In this episode of the Human Loop I sit down with Mizan Rahman, co-founder of Emerge IQ and an OG of the Ai space. We discuss the evolution of AI, the importance of human synthesis in technology, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI's role in society. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to AI and Human Performance 02:30 - Exploring Human Synthesis in AI 12:38 - The Ethics of AI and Human Interaction 21:53 - AI's Impact on Leadership and Organizational Change 43:08 - Empowering Organizations through the Human Loop Connect with Miz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mizan-rahman Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager Connect with The host - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstocken/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min

  11. 12/10/2025

    The Weekly Loop: AI and Leadership Insights

    In this week's loop I talk about how AI, leadership, and workplace innovation all connect. I explain that AI tools can be helpful, but the real challenge is building strong leadership, because that’s what actually drives meaningful change in an organization. I share five stories that show how HR is starting to focus more on developing leaders, why workplace innovation matters, the hurdles companies face when adopting AI, and the rising issue of employee burnout. In the end, my main point is that if organizations want better productivity and more engaged employees, they need to invest in their leaders. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to The Human Loop and AI in Leadership 00:59 Workplace Innovation: The Role of Leadership 03:24 Leadership Development: A New Priority for HR 05:45 The AI Silicon Ceiling: Bridging the Gap 07:43 CEOs and Social Media: A Strategic Retreat 09:39 The Burnout Engagement Paradox 12:27 Conclusion: Leadership as the Bottleneck Studies Mentioned: Story 1: Workplace Innovation Story 2: Leadership Development #1 Priority Story 3: The AI Silicon Ceiling Story 4: CEOs Going Quiet Story 5: Burnout-Engagement Paradox Powered By Atherio, Real-time leadership wisdom for every manager Connect with The host - Ben Stocken Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    14 min
  12. Welcome to the Human Loop Podcast

    12/01/2025

    Welcome to the Human Loop Podcast

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

The Human Loop explores what happens at the intersection of human performance and emerging technology. Each episode unpacks how modern leaders can operate at their best while AI transforms the way we work. Powered by Atherio | Lead with Clarity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Ben Stocken
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ben Stocken
  • Show Website
    The Human Loop Podcast