Tim Stating the Obvious

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Aug 2026

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Turning leadership principles into practical application

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August 21, 2026Episode 4238 min

Stop Chasing Outcomes with Erin Treacy

Stop Chasing Outcomes with Erin Treacy. Most leaders are obsessed with outcomes, KPIs, and hitting the next target, but that focus can quietly create problems inside the team. In Stop Chasing Outcomes with Erin Treacy, Tim Staton sits down with leadership coach and small business expert Erin Treacy to explore why better results often begin with better systems, stronger communication, and a healthier team culture. Raised in a small family owned business in the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia, Erin Treacy brings a unique combination of family business experience, restaurant leadership, journalism, and professional coaching. Her experience gives her a practical perspective on how to start a small family business, how to run a small family business, and how to sell a small family business while building the leadership systems necessary for long-term business growth. In this episode of Tim Stating The Obvious, Tim Staton and Erin Treacy examine what it really takes to lead people effectively in a small business. They discuss Leadership, Management Tips, Small Business, Team Culture, Employee Engagement, Effective Communication, Professional Development, Leadership Development, Workplace Efficiency, and Business Growth without relying on empty leadership clichés. Erin explains why leaders should stop chasing outcomes and start improving the systems that produce those outcomes. Like a sports coach focusing on the next play rather than obsessing over the final score, effective leaders can improve performance by examining daily processes, communication, workflows, and employee experiences. The conversation also explores why self-assessment is one of the most overlooked leadership skills. Instead of immediately blaming employees when something goes wrong, leaders need to examine their own communication, expectations, systems, and management practices. Erin explains why “message sent” does not necessarily mean “message received” and how better communication can prevent small problems from becoming expensive failures. Another major focus is leadership by walking around. Erin explains why getting out of the office, walking the floor, talking directly with employees, and asking better questions can reveal problems that never make it through layers of middle management. For small family businesses and growing companies, this type of face-to-face connection can strengthen trust, improve employee engagement, and create a healthier team culture. Tim and Erin also discuss the challenge of developing internal talent. Many small businesses make the mistake of promoting their best employee into management without providing the training necessary to become an effective leader. Erin explains why businesses should develop a talent pipeline, cross-train employees, and provide professional development before someone is placed in a leadership position. The episode also explores the difference between managing outcomes and building systems, how to improve communication so employees understand their roles, and why middle managers can sometimes become the biggest bottleneck to workplace efficiency. For anyone interested in small family business ideas, building a successful family business, improving leadership and management, developing employees, or creating a workplace culture where people want to work, this conversation offers practical lessons that can be applied immediately. Whether you own a small business, work in management, lead a family-owned company, or are preparing for your next leadership position, Stop Chasing Outcomes with Erin Treacy will challenge you to think differently about leadership, communication, employee development, and business growth. In This Episode Why leaders should focus on systems instead of obsessing over outcomes How self-assessment can improve leadership effectiveness Why effective communication requires listening, not just talking How leadership by walking around creates stronger employee engagement Why “message sent” does not always mean “message received” How small businesses can improve workplace efficiency Why promoting your best performer into management can backfire How to build an internal talent pipeline Why cross-training employees strengthens a small business How professional development supports leadership development The role of middle management in team culture How family-owned businesses can prepare for growth and transition Practical lessons for running and growing a small family business Key Topics Leadership | Management Tips | Small Business | Team Culture | Employee Engagement | Effective Communication | Professional Development | Leadership Development | Workplace Efficiency | Business Growth | Family Business | Small Business Leadership | Talent Development | Management | Business Systems About Erin Treacy Erin Treacy is a leadership and business coach from the Appalachian region of West Virginia. After growing up in a family business and owning multiple restaurants, Erin now helps everyday leaders build confidence, improve communication, develop emotional intelligence, and create stronger teams without burning out. Connect with Erin Treacy Website: https://erintreacycoaching.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-treacy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coacherintreacy/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Professional Reading List: https://timstatingtheobvious.com/products Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

August 12, 2026Episode 4139 min

Who Leads when AI Thinks with Adrian Wolfberg

Think AI is going to replace your leadership skills? Think again. Adrian Wolfberg explains why your ability to think, read, and frame problems is more vital than ever. Tim Staton breaks down the reality of leading through technological change without losing your human edge. We cover: How to talk to senior leaders about complex issues. The real impact of smartphone and AI over-dependence on your brain. Why “buying more AI” is often a trap. Practical advice for sharpening your critical thinking skills. Connect with Adrain Wolfberg Book: https://a.co/d/00frHXDO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianwolfberg/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Professional Reading List: https://timstatingtheobvious.com/products Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

August 7, 2026Episode 4030 min

Profit Seeks Purpose with Harland Merriam

Profit Seeks Purpose with Harland Merriam In this episode of the podcast, Tim Staton sits down with Harland Merriam—pastor, entrepreneur, Army chaplain, real estate investor, and author of Profit Seeks Purpose—to explore what it really means to pursue success without losing sight of purpose. Harland shares how decades in ministry, the military, and business shaped his belief that faith and work are deeply connected. The conversation unpacks what is profit seeking, the profit seeking paradox, and why many high achievers still feel empty even after hitting big financial goals. Together they dig into strategies for increasing small business revenue while asking the harder question of should companies prioritize profit or purpose? and what seeking purpose in life looks like across different stages. Harland opens up about his journey from single-family deals into multifamily investing, offering practical insights on real estate profit and loss, profit in real estate, and the profit first for real estate investors approach that keeps cash flow and purpose aligned. You’ll also hear clear guidance on how to create a mastermind group and how to create a mastermind that actually works—built on trust, confidentiality, and mutual support—so leaders stop operating in isolation. The episode touches on the 4 pillars of profit and how they support a life where commercial success becomes a form of workplace ministry rather than an end in itself. Whether you’re early in your career, scaling a business, or thinking about purpose in later life, this conversation delivers practical wisdom on mentorship, community, and aligning profit with meaning. Listen in for a thoughtful discussion that shows how Profit Seeks Purpose with Harland Merriam can help you build both stronger numbers and a life that matters. Connect with Harland Merriam Book: https://a.co/d/0c24tgIW LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlandmerriam/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

July 31, 2026Episode 3938 min

Why Best Hires Become Problems

discover the key characteristics of high performing teams and what makes high performing teams succeed. Chris Hallberg, a U.S. Army veteran and leadership development expert, explains how military leadeship, team management, and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) drive stronger business execution. Learn practical approaches to organizational culture, hiring strategies, talent curation, personnel management, and employee retention. This episode covers performance metrics, accountability standards, middle management alignment, command and control principles, veteran hiring, leadership training, management systems, business growth, workplace efficiency, corporate leadership, professional development, organizational design, business coaching, management styles, employee engagement, leadership principles, staffing solutions, and operational excellence. In this episode: Attributes of high performing teams and how to build high performing teams How military leadership translates into civilian business success Leading by example and the impact of frontline engagement on employee engagement Aligning middle management for better communication and business execution Culture curation and hiring for core wiring Tools for measuring performance and building elite teams Technology and visualization tools that improve team performance Navigating workforce commitment challenges Rigorous recruitment, staffing solutions, and firing fast to protect team excellence Leveraging veteran skills and military discipline in civilian organizations How high performing teams build trust and a practical high performing teams model Leadership and Execution Effective leadership requires moving beyond theory to consistent operational execution. Most businesses fail in the gap between strategy and daily implementation. Leaders must stay present, model the work ethic they expect, and demonstrate willingness to handle humble tasks. This sets a tone of mutual respect that becomes one of the core characteristics of high performing teams. Bridging the Management Gap A common problem is the disconnect between senior leadership and middle management. When executives announce changes without first aligning their managers, they weaken frontline authority and damage trust. Organizations perform best when they operate as one connected unit. Fully informing and empowering middle managers before initiatives launch prevents an “us vs. them” culture and supports the accountability standards that high performing teams need. Curating Elite Teams Talent acquisition works best as a deliberate curation process rather than a standard HR function. Most adults are already formed in character, so trying to fix uncommitted employees rarely succeeds. Focus instead on identifying people whose values and natural wiring match the team. This hiring approach prioritizes mission commitment over raw talent and strengthens long-term employee retention and organizational culture. Measurable Accountability Objective performance metrics and transparent scorecards remove guesswork. When results are visible, many team members self-correct without constant intervention. This method, drawn from military precision and systems like EOS, helps leaders quickly spot people in the wrong roles. It forms a practical high performing teams model that improves workplace efficiency and operational excellence while supporting sustained business growth. Connect Chris Hallberg: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hallberg-01516315/?skipRedirect=true Website: https://bizsgt.com/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b Substack: https://realtimstatingtheobvious.substack.com

July 24, 2026Episode 3831 min

How to Dominate Your First 90 Days as a New Leader

Mastering the First 90 Days for New Executives Mastering the First 90 Days as a new CEO or executive? In this episode of the Health Search Partners podcast, Neil Marshall and Kurt Mosley break down proven strategies from the first 90 days book and real-world leadership experience. Whether you're searching for the best books on the first 90 days as a CEO, how to build a 90-day plan for new CEOs at tech startups, or a practical first 90 days summary for a first 90 days new job, this conversation delivers actionable insights. Discover how to navigate organizational culture and leadership, understand what organizational culture really means, explore organizational culture types, dive into organizational culture theory, and answer the big question: can organizational culture be managed? Learn to secure small wins (with inspiring small wins quotes), execute powerful symbolic acts, and build credibility fast. Main Topics Covered: Importance of the first 90 days for organizational impact Listening, learning, and earning trust as key leadership skills Powerful symbolic acts that build credibility rapidly Negotiating quick wins and meaningful actions upfront (small wins quotes) Recognizing and navigating organizational politics The significance of behavior and presentation in leadership success Strategies to foster team cohesion and avoid premature change Organizational culture and leadership — how to assess and influence it without rushing Building your personal 90-day plan while respecting existing organizational culture types The Importance of the First 90 Days The initial 90-day window is a critical period for any new executive to build credibility and establish the foundation for their tenure. Neil Marshall and Kurt Mosley explain that this timeframe is the sweet spot for creating a positive first impression. Rather than rushing into formal strategic planning, effective leaders focus on listening, learning the organizational culture, and earning the trust of their people. Symbolic Acts and Quick Wins Symbolic actions serve as powerful tools for signaling a new leadership approach. Examples include a CEO spending nights in hospital resident dorms to understand staff conditions. These visible, practical gestures often carry more weight than formal communications. Negotiate resources for quick wins during the hiring process so you can deliver immediate value. Active Listening and Gaining Traction Kurt Mosley shares the “25-50-25 rule” — identify supporters, detractors, and the neutral majority, then focus on winning over the middle 50%. Go to employees’ workspaces, ask what success looks like to them, and synthesize feedback into actionable themes. Avoiding Common Pitfalls Don’t move too fast on personnel changes. Ensure your behavior aligns with your stated values (“audio matches video”). Leaders must be quick to learn and observe but slow to impose their will until they’ve earned the right. Whether you’re a new CEO in tech, healthcare, or any industry, this first 90 days summary equips you with the tools to succeed. If you’re looking for the best books on the first 90 days as a CEO (including Michael Watkins’ classic The First 90 Days), this episode brings the principles to life with real executive stories. Connect with Guests: Neill Marshall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillmarshall/ Kurt Mosley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-mosley-01893212 Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

July 17, 2026Episode 3422 min

The Reality of AI Displacement

In "The Reality of AI Displacement", host Tim Staton challenges the common fear of AI replacing humans. Instead, he reveals how artificial intelligence is displacing routine tasks and behaviors — not eliminating people — while reshaping work dynamics, organizational behavior, AI adoption, business processes, digital transformation, corporate culture, and leadership strategies. This episode explores what is work dynamics, AI implementation, operational efficiency, unwritten contracts, employee buy-in, institutional knowledge, change management, AI governance, business automation, job security, workplace innovation, process improvement, critical thinking, behavioral record, corporate communication, technology transition, team collaboration, system design, business intelligence, organizational structure, professional development, workplace technology, and the future of human connection in an AI-enhanced world. Key Topics: AI’s true impact: displacing tasks and behaviors rather than replacing humans Historical parallels — from secretaries to modern role evolution Bridging the dangerous gap between knowledge and skill application Shifting from task ownership to outcome ownership Leveraging AI as an amplifier for strategic, high-value work Why self-awareness, judgment, and ethical decision-making remain irreplaceable Practical strategies to thrive through AI adoption and change management The Reality of AI Displacement Tim Staton argues that the real conversation isn’t about total job loss but about AI displacement of repetitive cognitive work. Just as computers transformed secretarial roles, AI now handles routine tasks — freeing humans for higher-value work that demands judgment, creativity, and ethical reasoning. Those who adapt by focusing on skill application, outcome ownership, and amplified contribution will thrive. Strategic Evolution for Professionals Tim Staton shares practical insights drawn from military experience and real-world problem-solving: move beyond passive knowledge consumption, master execution, and use AI tools to enhance — not replace — your unique human capabilities. Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

July 15, 2026Episode 3631 min

AI Uncovers Secret Workplace Behaviors

AI Uncovers Secret Workplace Behaviors How can AI tools improve remote workplace culture? How do AI-driven communication tools affect workplace culture? Where can I find AI solutions to monitor and improve team collaboration? Discover how reshaping organizational management and workplace culture with AI is transforming the modern workplace in this insightful episode of An Inbox Between Us by David Dean. In "Will AI find secret behaviors at work?" — How AI Unveils the Hidden Operating System of Work — David Dean, seasoned technologist and author of An Inbox Between Us by David Dean, joins host Tim Staton to explore artificial intelligence, workplace technology, organizational behavior, AI adoption, business processes, digital transformation, and work dynamics. This episode dives deep into what is work dynamics and reveals how AI is reshaping corporate culture, leadership strategies, AI implementation, operational efficiency, unwritten contracts, employee buy-in, institutional knowledge, change management, AI governance, business automation, job security, workplace innovation, process improvement, critical thinking, behavioral record, corporate communication, technology transition, team collaboration, system design, business intelligence, organizational structure, and professional development. Key Topics: The misconception that AI's primary threat is job replacement vs. its real power in exposing hidden behaviors and secret behaviors at work How AI exposes the informal, unwritten rules and behavioral records that define true organizational dynamics Using AI solutions to monitor and improve team collaboration through emails, transcripts, and daily workflows Strategies for AI-driven communication tools that strengthen rather than erode remote workplace culture Practical steps for reshaping organizational management and workplace culture with AI while preserving human connection Understanding Organizational Dynamics David Dean explains that the greatest risk AI poses is not job displacement but the exposure of how organizations actually function. Official SOPs often miss the nuanced unwritten contracts, informal side conversations, and ad-hoc processes that drive daily work. By analyzing real behavioral records, teams gain powerful insights into work dynamics and hidden inefficiencies. AI as a Self-Realization Tool Instead of viewing AI purely for speed, David Dean and Tim Staton highlight its power for organizational self-realization. Feed your emails, logs, and challenges into AI tools to uncover friction points in team collaboration, remote workplace culture, and daily operations. Human-AI Symbiosis Successful digital transformation requires patience and human connection. AI excels at administrative drudgery but relies on human oversight for context, critical thinking, and leadership strategies. The goal is symbiotic workplace innovation that supports employees rather than replacing them. Connect with David Dean Website: https://www.davidchristopherdean.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidchristopherdean/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

July 3, 2026Episode 3532 min

Embracing Modern Leadership with Scott Abbott

Are Gen Z reshaping the future of work? In this powerful episode, leadership expert and entrepreneur Scott Abbott joins Tim Staton to discuss Gen Z in the workforce, Gen Z workforce statistics, what percentage of the workforce is Gen Z, and how Gen Z will change the workforce. With Gen Z entering the workforce and concerns around Gen Z tech industry workforce decline, traditional top-down leadership approaches are failing. Discover why top down leadership style no longer works and how modern leaders can adapt. Scott Abbott, founder of Boss Up, shares decades of experience building flexible, AI-powered business systems that bridge generational gaps and drive real results. From Gen Z workforce expectations around purpose and authenticity to practical leadership strategies, this conversation delivers actionable insights for entrepreneurs, managers, and business owners. What’s Covered: Gen Z workforce statistics and how much of the workforce is Gen Z — plus when full impact will hit Why top-down leadership style is losing talent and what replaces it The CLEAR framework for modern leadership and clear framework for prompt engineering Using clear framework AI to empower teams without losing human oversight Building work-life harmony instead of impossible balance The rise of trades, entrepreneurship by acquisition, and the coming renaissance in skilled labor How AI serves as a co-pilot while protecting critical thinking and creativity Evolving Leadership in the Age of Gen Z Tim Staton and Scott Abbott dive deep into the transformation happening across industries. As Gen Z entering the workforce accelerates, companies face new demands for empathy, flexibility, and authentic leadership. The discussion explores Gen Z tech industry workforce decline concerns and how leaders can reverse talent loss by moving away from rigid top down leadership. Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey — from raising $15M during the dot-com boom to building Boss Up, a coaching platform with 75+ coaches worldwide. He explains how his CLEAR framework (Collaborative, Logical, Empathetic, Authentic, Resilient) helps companies create tailored operating systems that combine proven business templates with intelligent AI. Practical Leadership Tools & AI Integration Scott Abbott strongly advises leaders to “own AI, don’t let it own you.” He demonstrates how to use a clear framework AI and clear framework for prompt engineering to boost productivity while maintaining human judgment. The conversation highlights the dangers of blindly copying AI output and the importance of adding personal validation and ethical oversight. Additional highlights include: Overcoming imposter syndrome and the “ego IQ vs eco EQ” challenge Why Gen Z actually thrives with clear structure, defined roles, and visible accountability The growing opportunity in trades (electrical, HVAC, plumbing) and entrepreneurship by acquisition Shifting from work-life balance to work-life harmony — embracing seasonality and grace Key Takeaways for Leaders: Move beyond top down leadership style to flexible, mentorship-driven models Implement systems that scale with diverse, multi-generational teams Leverage AI responsibly as a collaborator Build resilient cultures where everyone receives great leadership — at work, church, or home Whether you’re navigating Gen Z workforce challenges, updating your leadership approach, or integrating AI into your operations, this episode provides a clear roadmap for success in today’s evolving business landscape. If you're a leader, entrepreneur, or manager looking to stay ahead of workforce shifts, hit play now. 👍 Like | Subscribe | Share | Comment: What’s your biggest challenge leading Gen Z? Connect with Scott Abbott Website: www.scottabbottabc.com . Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottabbottabc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottabbottabc/ Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

July 1, 2026Episode 3438 min

Rise Up with Deepak Bhootra

In this episode of Rise Up, Tim Staton interviews Deepak Bhootra (also known as Dr Deepak Bhootra), a sales career longevity advisor, ICF-certified coach, and founder of the Rise Up platform. They explore how to manage upwards at work, the real manage upwards meaning, and practical strategies for how to manage upwards effectively to build stronger relationships with leadership and accelerate your career. The conversation delivers clear insights into career progression meaning, career progression definition, and a proven career progression framework that works across roles — including career progression for project manager, career progression plan template, career progression plan example, and career progression plan for employees. Deepak also breaks down career longevity meaning and why so many professionals lose significant earnings due to poor career navigation. Timeless Leadership in a Changing World Tim Staton and Deepak Bhootra discuss how core leadership principles remain constant even as AI and automation reshape the workplace. Deepak, with 34 years of global corporate experience across six countries and four continents, shares how workplace challenges like vague feedback, credit-taking, and unclear expectations persist across generations. He emphasizes that while technology gives people “wings,” true altitude comes from attitude and human skills that AI cannot replicate. How to Manage Upwards Effectively Deepak Bhootra offers direct, practical advice on how to manage upwards by focusing on diplomacy, understanding your boss’s priorities, and delivering value that resonates at higher levels. He shares a personal story from his early career where using Excel to solve a key business problem caught the attention of senior leaders and earned him a promotion. The discussion highlights the importance of adapting to leadership expectations while creating win-win outcomes, rather than getting caught in office politics. Career Progression and The Rise Up Framework Deepak introduces his “Rise Up” framework — Recognize, Interrupt, Strengthen, Expand, and Propel — as a powerful career progression framework for building self-awareness and driving meaningful growth. He also explains the Push-Pull Model for making smart career moves and avoiding repeated mistakes when changing jobs. Listeners gain actionable guidance on building career progression plans that support long-term career longevity. Modern Workplace Challenges The episode examines the impact of flattened organizations, reduced middle management, shifting generational expectations, and the evolving role of mentorship. Deepak raises concerns about the “dumbification” of workplace structures and the need to keep humanity at the center of organizational success, even as automation increases. This episode is filled with practical wisdom for anyone looking to understand how to manage upwards at work, create an effective career progression plan, and achieve stronger career longevity. Whether you’re a project manager mapping out your next steps or an employee building a solid career progression plan example, Deepak Bhootra’s insights provide a clear roadmap for sustainable success. Main Topics & Insights: The enduring nature of leadership principles despite technological disruption How to manage upwards effectively and the real manage upwards meaning Deepak Bhootra’s “Rise Up” framework for career growth and self-development Organizational flattening, hierarchy changes, and their impact on human connection The evolving role of mentorship and human capital in the workplace Practical strategies for career progression and improving career longevity Tune in to discover how to navigate your career with confidence and purpose. Check out Deepak Bhootra’s Rise Up platform for additional tools and support for young professionals. Connect WithDeepak: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepakbhootra/ Website: https://deepak.bhootra.com/ Book: https://a.co/d/0iDCs27U Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b

June 26, 2026Episode 3328 min

AI at Work with Kate Marshall

In this episode of AI at Work, Tim Staton sits down with Kate Marshall, founder of the GRAI Fractional Chief AI Officer and author of AI at Work. They explore practical how to use AI at work, effective ways to use AI at work, and answer the common question how can AI help me at work while addressing can I use AI at work responsibly in professional environments. Kate shares expert guidance on AI at work who runs the office — the critical balance between human leadership and intelligent systems. The conversation dives deep into what is AI and data governance, AI and data governance and privacy OECD frameworks, and the role of the Centre for AI and Data Governance in helping organizations stay compliant. They also unpack what is AI and cybersecurity, AI and machine learning cybersecurity, generative AI and cybersecurity, and tackle the debate AI and cybersecurity which is better when building secure, resilient systems. The AI Revolution and Human Potential Tim Staton and Kate Marshall discuss a vision where AI augments human potential instead of replacing it. Kate emphasizes shifting the narrative from job loss to exponential human growth by letting AI handle repetitive tasks. This approach reduces fear and helps employees embrace new ways to use AI at work for more creative, high-value outcomes. Challenges in AI Adoption and Implementation Many organizations struggle to move beyond experimentation. Kate highlights common pitfalls including legacy systems, data integrity issues, and resistance rooted in uncertainty about how can AI help me at work versus the risks involved. She stresses the need for clear strategy rather than simply “grabbing onto AI” without proper planning. Data Integrity, Governance & Security Data concerns remain a major barrier. Kate strongly recommends enterprise-grade tools over free versions and explains best practices around AI and data governance, privacy regulations like HIPAA, and protecting sensitive information. The discussion covers responsible data handling and why governance must be foundational to any successful AI strategy. Training, Customization & Human Oversight Kate addresses the problem of generic “AI slop” and shows how proper training and customization lead to outstanding results. She clarifies the difference between automations and adaptive AI agents while reinforcing the importance of keeping humans in control. Listeners gain practical insights on how to use AI at work effectively, including the human-in-the-loop model that prevents errors and ensures alignment with business goals. Strategic Implementation & Future of Work The episode provides a clear roadmap: start with goals, not tools. Kate’s book AI at Work offers a practical checklist-based approach ideal for non-technical leaders. They also explore how organizational structures and roles are evolving, the rise of fractional Chief AI Officers, and how to prepare teams for the significant changes ahead. Whether you’re wondering can I use AI at work, seeking proven ways to use AI at work, or need clarity on AI and cybersecurity, this conversation delivers actionable strategies, responsible AI policies, and a balanced view on the future of work. Key Topics: The importance of AI literacy for organizational leadership Balancing technological innovation with human elements Common pitfalls in AI adoption, including data integrity and governance Practical steps to move from AI experimentation to strategic implementation Developing responsible AI policies that protect sensitive data Human in the loop vs. human out of the loop How to train teams effectively for AI adoption Organizing around clear goals, not just the tools The future of work: preparing for AI integration and workforce transformation This episode is essential listening for leaders and professionals who want to thrive in the AI era. Subscribe for more expert conversations on how to use AI at work responsibly and effectively. Connect With Kate Marshall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-b-marshall/ Website: https://thegr.ai/ Book: https://a.co/d/0dZ15wKd Connect With Tim Website: timstatingtheobvious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timstatingtheobvious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHfDcITKUdniO8R3RP0lvdw Instagram: @TimStating TikTok: @timstatingtheobvious LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-staton-04b41a271/ SKOOL Community: https://www.skool.com/timstatingtheobvious-9537/about?ref=de9c7e65d8ba4eeabc1a8eea413c125b