Unlocked Professional: AI and Future of Work

Jeff Midland | AI & Future of Work Enthusiast

Most companies are stuck in "experimentation theater". Buying AI tools that go nowhere while their teams are exhausted by the hype. Welcome to The Unlocked Professional, where we stop playing with AI and start running it like a business operation. Hosted by Jeff Midland, we interview the visionaries from Chief AI Officers to Workforce Futurists. We give you the "Cheat Code" for staying relevant. Learn to move from being just a worker to an Architect of the future. We dive deep into Human-Centric AI, Agentic workflows, and the ADOPT method to ensure you remain irreplaceable. Stop the social grinding and start building a real strategy that works with AI, not against it.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    The Self-Made AI Champion: How She Built Her Career by Saying Yes to the Scary Stuff | Ashley Gross

    In this conversation, Ashley Gross shares her journey from being a self-described workaholic to becoming a leading AI advocate. She breaks down how she leveraged artificial intelligence to help scale business revenue from $90 million to $115 million while simultaneously reclaiming her time. The discussion covers her proprietary AI Impact Alignment system, practical sourcing tools for LinkedIn, and how solopreneurs and small teams can utilize automation to boost efficiency without losing the essential human element. Key Topics Moving away from the hustle culture myth that equates raw hours to financial success How Ashley applied her computer science background to drive massive revenue growth Implementing the AI Impact Alignment system to integrate technology into team structures Case studies of increasing profitability and scaling revenue without cutting corporate payroll Highly accessible entry points for solopreneurs and small teams to adopt automated tools Positioning yourself strategically as an internal AI Subject Matter Expert for career growth Building a customized talent sourcing tool using compliant LinkedIn integrations Ashley's predictions on future workforce trends and evolving human-AI collaboration Managing AI hallucinations and the critical importance of keeping a human in the loop Episode Timestamps 00:00 Rethinking Hard Work: Achieving strategic success through automation 03:25 Creative Roots: Ashley's early development projects and coding background 08:35 The Turning Point: Realizing traditional corporate work structures are broken 09:10 Strategic Systems: Introducing the AI Impact Alignment framework 12:25 Scaling Revenue: The tactical playbook behind a $25M growth surge 15:26 Career Leverage: How to position yourself as an AI Subject Matter Expert 27:19 Lean Operations: Low friction AI adoption tactics for small teams and solopreneurs 42:28 Tool Building: Creating custom sourcing workflows with respectful LinkedIn integration 57:34 The Future of Work: Long term trends in human and machine collaboration 60:29 Governance and Quality: Detecting hallucinations and keeping humans in the loop Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theashleygross/ Website: https://www.theashleygross.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theashleygross/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theashleygross Keywords: AI strategy, Ashley Gross, revenue growth, AI Impact Alignment, future of work, solopreneur automation, LinkedIn sourcing, human in the loop, corporate innovation, workforce efficiency

    45 min

  2. May 27

    Beyond the Search Bar: How AI is Redefining Visibility for Small Business | Maria Elena Duron

    In this conversation, Maria Elena Duron explores how small business owners can navigate digital transformation and rapid algorithmic shifts without losing their human touch. As a national Grow with Google Coach and founder of the Smart Brand System, she breaks down complex tech changes into clear marketing plans. The discussion covers how to balance AI tools with secure data governance, preserve a founder's authentic story, and optimize content for modern, AI-driven search environments. Key Topics How AI and changing search algorithms affect small business local visibility Translating advanced tech updates into highly actionable growth plans Why relationships and personal customer service cannot be replaced by automation Navigating modern retail changes like cashierless environments and dynamic pricing The necessity of personal data organization, cybersecurity, and secure governance Using creative hobbies and a digital detox to reset strategic business focus How small businesses can adapt content for AI engines while preserving their original voice Overcoming search hurdles by optimizing business profiles, YouTube, and LinkedIn Deploying an AI Readiness Kit as a first step to centralize company data Episode Timestamps 00:00 The algorithmic race small business owners face in search visibility 00:29 Maria Elena's background and translating tech into simple plans 01:06 The transition from traditional retail to digital innovations 03:12 The accessibility of large language models for everyday business use 04:37 Protecting the human customer service elements AI cannot replace 05:05 Navigating future retail shifts like cashierless environments 07:49 Using Renaissance Fairs as a digital detox and creative reset 13:41 Securing data usage with proper governance and human oversight 14:10 Preserving the authentic stories of legacy business founders 16:32 Maria Elena’s decade long journey as a Grow with Google trainer 19:20 The importance of controlling corporate data access and permissions 25:23 Common search and local visibility challenges modern businesses encounter 28:02 Managing internal AI tools and steering clear of shadow AI practices 29:31 The future of search: Evolving behaviors and maintaining uniqueness 32:19 Adapting SEO: Optimizing business profiles, YouTube, and LinkedIn 38:26 Deploying an AI Readiness Kit to gather and organize core data 43:42 Measuring the digital divide and manual operations in legacy industries 47:30 Moving toward human centered tasks as agentic AI manages busywork Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariaduron/ Website: https://www.smartbrandsystem.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingcoachmaria/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MariaElenaDuron Keywords: AI for small business, Grow with Google, Smart Brand System, digital transformation, local SEO, future of search, artificial intelligence, content strategy, data governance

    52 min

  3. May 20

    The Recruiter Who Says Resumes Don't Matter & Beat the Giants with a 2-Person Firm | Bryan Lee

    Bryan Lee Bryan Lee, founder of Subgraph, shares innovative strategies for identifying and recruiting elite technical talent. Drawing on his background in competitive basketball, Bryan discusses systems thinking in recruitment, leveraging AI to compete with industry giants, and why full stack generalists are increasingly valuable over narrow specialists. Key Topics Why traditional hiring processes overlook elite technical talent Applying competitive sports thinking to corporate team building Using AI and market mapping tools to build candidate signals faster The shift from niche expertise to full stack generalists Building through the draft: nurturing junior talent early Moving from resumes to proof of skill via projects and contributions How recruiters can act as strategic advisors Streamlining interviews for faster, smarter hiring decisions Episode Timestamps 00:00 Rethinking hiring and elite talent pools 01:17 Basketball background and modern team building 02:42 Systems thinking in recruitment 05:15 Leveraging AI to compete with larger firms 06:44 The shift to full stack generalists 09:57 Continuous candidate and hiring manager engagement 11:18 Core soft skills: communication, curiosity, and passion 12:32 Project-based proof of skill over resumes 16:45 The advisory role of recruiters 20:18 Interview processes built around real-world problem solving 26:33 AI's future in talent acquisition 30:37 Nurturing talent early to reduce recruitment costs 39:19 Technological trends shaping interpersonal skills Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-lee-tech-recruiter Website: https://subgraph.tech Keywords: AI in recruitment, technical hiring, talent acquisition, systems thinking, full stack developers, future of work, candidate sourcing, team building

    49 min

  4. May 13

    The Generalist’s Revenge: How AI is Leveling the Professional Playing Field | Tim Cakir

    Discover how AI can be transformed from a feared disruptor into a collaborative partner that boosts productivity, innovation, and human potential. Tim Cakir shares practical insights, success stories, and the ADOPT method to operationalize AI effectively. Key Topics The common pitfalls in AI projects and how most fail to generate real valueTurning teams into AI operators through the adopt methodThe importance of treating AI as a true partner, not just a toolPractical examples of AI-driven transformations in sales, marketing, and operationsReducing the number of tools needed for business efficiency with AIBehavior change programs to operationalize AI in organizationsThe 66-day habit formation concept for integrating AI into daily workThe future of work: a shift towards higher cognitive tasks and human-AI collaborationThe impact of AI on education and lifelong learningBuilding emotional intelligence and human connection in an AI-enhanced worldStrategies for future-proofing skills: systemic thinking, taste, and problem-solvingThe vision of a future where agents and AI enable more meaningful human experiences Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Why most AI projects fail and how to turn AI into a competitive advantage 02:00 - The adopt method: five steps to integrate AI smoothly into teams 05:30 - Real-world success stories of AI transforming sales reporting and field work 08:45 - How reducing tools and centralizing data unleashes AI potential 12:00 - Behavior change programs: training humans to leverage AI effectively 15:15 - Examples of AI automations that cut hours of manual work in sales and marketing 19:30 - The importance of cross-team learning and integrated skills development 22:45 - The 66-day habit: how to build lasting AI integration habits 27:00 - The future of work: more human, more outdoor, more creative with AI support 30:15 - AI and the evolution of education: interactive, personalized learning 34:00 - The role of taste, first principles, and curiosity as future-proof skills 37:45 - Building emotional intelligence and human connection in an AI world 41:05 - The long-term vision: AI enabling better lives, not just better work 44:30 - The architect’s perspective: designing the future of work and life with AI 46:55 - Practical skills for future resilience: systems thinking, curiosity, and problem-solving 50:15 - How to follow Tim, join AI for Better Work, and start your AI journey today Connect with Tim: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timcakir/ Website - https://www.timcakir.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/timcakir/  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@timcakir  TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@tim_cakir

    51 min

  5. May 6

    The Super Age: What Happens When Seniors Outnumber Children? It's Time To Prepare | Bradley Schurman

    In this conversation, Bradley Schurman introduces the Geography of Prosperity, a free tool designed to help individuals and organizations navigate the demographic shifts of the "Super Age." Bradley explains how the tool ranks cities across five key dimensions to measure community potential and economic resilience. The discussion explores how aging workforces and geographic trends are reshaping the future of work, providing a data driven look at which regions are prepared to thrive in an era of rapid social and technological change. Key Topics The Geography of Prosperity as a free and accessible tool for city ranking How the tool measures community health across five key dimensions Understanding the "Super Age" and its impact on global employment trends Using data for strategic site selection and community planning How geography influences economic prosperity and individual opportunity The role of the Geography of Prosperity index as a foundation for Bradley’s upcoming book How aging populations and AI are intersecting to redefine the future of work Comparing national city rankings to understand regional strengths and weaknesses The shift in global perspectives regarding aging workforces and economic stability Episode Timestamps 00:00 The Shift to a Super Age: Understanding demographic change 00:57 The Aging Workforce: Employment trends and economic impact 11:46 Geography of Prosperity: How the tool and index work 29:47 Future of Work: The intersection of human aging and AI 40:39 Global Perspectives: International outlooks on aging populations Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyschurman/ Website: https://geographyofprosperity.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bradleyschurman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradley.schurman/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurman Keywords: Geography of Prosperity, city ranking, community development, free tool, site selection, future of work, demographic shifts, Super Age

    53 min

  6. Apr 29

    Your Team is Using AI Right Now And It's Not Helping You | Chris Daigle

    In this conversation, Chris Daigle explores how companies can effectively prepare their executive teams for the integration of artificial intelligence. He emphasizes that a successful AI strategy is impossible without a shared baseline understanding across all business domains. Chris discusses the common hurdles organizations face, including human friction and the gap between AI's potential and its actual utility. By focusing on a structured approach to executive training and risk management, he explains how leaders can move past pilot projects and create a culture of continuous adaptation in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Key Topics AI training for executive leadership teams Building a unified understanding of AI tools and organizational risks Developing comprehensive AI strategies across various business domains Overcoming human friction and the burnout associated with AI implementation The 90 day roadmap for making AI effective within a company Identifying top impediments: risk assessment, use cases, and expertise gaps The necessity of continuous training as AI tools evolve Transitioning workforces to adapt to new technological realities Episode Timestamps 00:00 Challenges in proving AI effectiveness and managing burnout 00:09 Introduction to the 90 day step-by-step AI implementation plan 00:15 Analyzing the gap between AI capabilities and actual human usage 00:42 Identifying top organizational impediments and AI risks 01:02 Why continuous adaptation is required after initial implementation 01:29 Helping employees transition and adapt to evolving technologies Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctordaigle Website: https://chiefaiofficer.com/ Podcast: https://usingaiatwork.com/ Keywords: AI, Future of Work, Executive Training, Business Strategy, AI Risks, AI Tools, AI adoption, leadership, organizational change, productivity

    50 min

  7. Apr 22

    95% of Companies Are Failing At AI (And They Don't Even Know It) | Geoff Gibbins

    In this conversation, Geoff Gibbins discusses the challenges organizations face in adopting AI technologies and the common pitfalls that lead to failure. He emphasizes the importance of rethinking workflows and processes rather than simply adding AI tools to existing systems. Geoff introduces CoreX, a tool designed to enhance collaboration between humans and AI, and explains how it assesses proficiency in using AI tools. The discussion also covers the future of work, where AI becomes an integral part of teams, and the need for organizations to adapt to these changes effectively. Key Topics 95% of companies that try to use AI fail due to improper implementation Pilot purgatory refers to endless testing without real results Rethinking workflows is essential for successful AI integration CoreX measures how individuals collaborate with AI tools 80% of users add significant value when working with AI AI can enhance critical thinking and systems thinking skills Organizational change is necessary for effective AI adoption The future of work will see AI as a team member Intelligent robotics will play a larger role in various industries Training and support are crucial for leveraging AI tools effectively Episode Timestamps 00:00 The AI Adoption Crisis 03:47 Rethinking Workflows with AI 08:07 Introducing CoreX: A New Tool for AI Collaboration 11:57 Assessing AI Proficiency and Collaboration 16:12 The Learning Flywheel: Humans and AI Together 20:02 The Future of Work: AI as a Team Member 24:12 Redesigning Processes for AI Integration 27:58 Navigating Organizational Change with AI 31:48 The Path Forward: Implementing AI Effectively Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffgibbins Website: https://human-machines.com/ Keywords: AI adoption, CoreX, AI collaboration, future of work, organizational change, AI tools, human-machine collaboration, training, productivity, technology integration

    46 min

  8. Apr 15

    AI Won't Save You But This Will | Susan Caesar

    Explore how AI is transforming the workplace, emphasizing the importance of human skills, mindset, and ethical considerations. Susan Caesar shares insights from her experience at Airbnb and her work in AI, highlighting strategies for staying relevant and leveraging AI responsibly. Key Topics The shift from technology to human skills in the workplace The importance of mindset and human-centered design in AI adoption Strategies for training and empowering employees for AI integration Episode Timestamps 00:00 Navigating the Disruption of Work 03:04 The Human Operating System 05:53 Data-Driven Decision Making 08:47 Human-Centered Design 12:12 Empowering Employees in the Age of AI 14:47 AI Literacy and Training 17:54 The Future of Work and AI 20:47 Ethics and Safety in AI Usage 24:07 Embracing Change and Redefining Roles 26:56 The Role of Women in Shaping AI 29:49 The Future Landscape of Work 32:54 Finding Your Place in the New Economy 36:00 Conclusion and Future Outlook Guest Links Website: https://www.humain.org/ Website: http://coachingfederation.org/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancaesar/ Keywords: AI in the workplace, human skills, AI ethics, digital transformation, future of work, leadership, AI training, human-centered design

    44 min

  9. Apr 8

    Your Company Is Already Running The Numbers On Replacing You With AI | Stela Lupushor

    In this conversation, Stela Lupushor discusses the evolving landscape of work, emphasizing the need for HR to adapt to new realities shaped by AI and changing employee expectations. She shares her journey from Moldova to becoming a leader in HR innovation, highlighting the importance of reframing traditional HR practices to focus on employee experience and value creation. The discussion also touches on the risks of shadow AI, the necessity of data-driven insights in HR, and the future of work as a collaborative effort between humans and technology. Key Topics The future of work is increasingly driven by AI and data HR must transition from a compliance-focused role to a strategic partner Employee experience is critical for retention and productivity Shadow AI presents both opportunities and security risks Data analytics can dispel common myths in HR practices. Organizations need to rethink the value exchange with employees Investing in employee experience can lead to significant ROI The traditional model of work is becoming obsolete Collaboration between HR and IT is essential for modern workplaces The future of work will involve a blend of human and AI collaboration Episode Timestamps 00:00 The Future of Work: A New Paradigm 09:15 Stela's Journey: From Moldova to HR Innovator 14:28 Reframing HR: Breaking the Traditional Model 25:29 The Importance of Employee Experience 29:20 Shadow AI: Productivity vs. Security Risks 35:25 Myth Busting in HR: Data-Driven Insights 41:00 The Future of Work: Rethinking Value Exchange Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/slupushor/ Website: https://www.reframe.work/ Books: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1398604232/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk and https://www.amazon.com/Humanizing-Human-Capital-Optimal-Business/dp/1637741804 Keywords: Future of work, HR innovation, employee experience, AI in HR, human capital ROI, workplace transformation, shadow AI, data-driven HR, employee retention, workforce strategy.

    45 min

  10. Apr 1

    LinkedIn's 1st CHRO: Why Learning Velocity Beats AI in 2026 | Steve Cadigan

    The world of work isn't just changing; it is being completely redefined. In this episode, we sit down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn’s first Chief HR Officer and author of Workquake. Steve shares his expertise on the evolving landscape of work, talent retention, AI integration, and leadership in a rapidly changing world. Discover practical strategies for building resilient teams, embracing mistakes, and preparing for the future of work. Key Topics The evolution of work and the impact of AI Building a culture of learning and experimentation Strategies for talent retention and recruitment The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Steve Cadigan and his career 01:27 Steve's background and early life in South Africa and Connecticut 03:22 How Steve fell in love with HR and his career journey 05:17 The value of making mistakes and being human in leadership 07:28 Responding to interview questions about failure and mistakes 08:32 Building teams that attract top talent without high pay 10:21 The importance of a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP) 13:03 The changing landscape of careers and new industries 14:32 The rapid change in the world of work and how to prepare 16:27 Understanding workforce turnover and the impact of COVID-19 18:37 Advice for new graduates in a challenging job market 20:47 The importance of critical thinking and learning velocity 22:05 Jobs of the future: learning more than knowing 30:02 The creativity and innovation of outsiders in Silicon Valley 31:41 The power of giving employees new opportunities to grow 36:36 How AI is augmenting talent rather than replacing it 37:04 Motivations behind AI job displacement narratives 39:20 The cultural challenges of AI adoption and experimentation 41:55 The one move to gain an unfair edge in the future of work 42:34 Where to connect with Steve and learn more about his work Guest Links Website: https://stevecadigan.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stevecadiganBook: Workquake: Embracing the Aftershocks of COVID-19 to Create a Better Model of Working Keywords: Future of Work, Talent Retention Strategies, AI in HR, Leadership Vulnerability, Career Pivot, Workquake Book, Employee Engagement, Silicon Valley Innovation, Workforce Turnover, Steve Cadigan

    43 min

  11. Mar 18

    TRAILER: The Future of Work is Here. Are you ready?

    Welcome to the "Unlock" phase of your career. > In this 90-second intro, host Jeff Midland breaks down why the "old way" of working is dying and how The Unlocked Professional will give you the cheat codes to lead the AI transition. What to expect every Wednesday starting April 1st: Architect vs. Worker: Strategies to move up the value chain.Human-Centric AI: How to use tools without losing your soul.Expert Deep Dives: Conversations with the leaders building the future. 🚀 LAUNCHING APRIL 1st, 2026 Action Step: Hit the "Follow" button right now so you don't miss our premiere episode. Visit us at www.unlockedpro.com

    1 min

Trailer

About

Most companies are stuck in "experimentation theater". Buying AI tools that go nowhere while their teams are exhausted by the hype. Welcome to The Unlocked Professional, where we stop playing with AI and start running it like a business operation. Hosted by Jeff Midland, we interview the visionaries from Chief AI Officers to Workforce Futurists. We give you the "Cheat Code" for staying relevant. Learn to move from being just a worker to an Architect of the future. We dive deep into Human-Centric AI, Agentic workflows, and the ADOPT method to ensure you remain irreplaceable. Stop the social grinding and start building a real strategy that works with AI, not against it.

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