Why AI Can’t Replace What Matters Most at Work

AI in the workplace is advancing faster than most of us can keep up with—but there’s one thing it will never replace: human connection and leadership.

In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant sits down with Kenneth Correa, a marketing strategist and emerging tech expert from Brazil. Kenneth has spent over 15 years tracking technologies from blockchain and the metaverse to today’s AI agents. He’s also the author of Cognitive Organizations, a book written entirely with the help of AI agents.

Through real-world stories, Kenneth explores the future of work, AI and leadership, and how to use AI productivity tools without losing what matters most—empathy, trust, and human connection at work. From training 7,000 factory workers safely in the metaverse to a failed experiment where a Swiss bank replaced managers with an AI “boss,” you’ll hear both the promise and the pitfalls of AI.

If you’re wondering how to leverage AI to free up your time, boost productivity, and strengthen—not replace—the relationships that drive success at work, this conversation is for you.

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why AI hype cycles repeat—and how to tell what’s valuable vs. noise
• A practical case study: how VR training reduced workplace accidents in a major factory project
• Why replacing managers with an AI boss backfired—and what it teaches us about leadership and empathy
• How Kenneth uses AI agents in his business to create time for what matters most
• Three simple steps to start using AI without losing your humanity

📌 Resources & Links

• Connect with Kenneth Correa on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Kenneth’s book: Cognitive Organizations
• Join Engineer Your Success Insiders — a private podcast with weekly coaching insights: engineeryoursuccessnow.com/insiders

🔧 About Engineer Your Success

Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Hosted by Dr. James Bryant, PhD, PE, this podcast gives you practical strategies to strengthen your leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence—so you can build stronger teams, make better decisions, and design a life that works on your terms.

Learn more at engineeryoursuccessnow.com