The Future of Work & AI | API Futures Podcast Episode 18

AI is rapidly reshaping how we work. In this episode, Li Fan, CTO & CAO of Circle, explores how AI tools, predictive analytics, and automation are transforming talent management, decision-making, and corporate strategy. Moderated by Atlas CEO Jim McCoy, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders on adopting AI responsibly, balancing human and machine capabilities, and preparing for a more equitable, tech-driven future. 00:00 It's Not AI That Replaces You — It's Those Who Harness It 00:26 Welcome to API Futures Podcast by Ascend 01:00 Guest Introduction: Leadership, Talent, and AI in HR 02:30 Meet Lee: CTO and Chief AI Officer at Circle 04:00 What Does a Chief AI Officer Actually Do? 05:45 Building AI Across Every Function and Team 07:10 Inside Circle’s AI Structure: Technology, Governance & Talent 09:40 The Future of AI Talent: Training and Workforce Transformation 11:30 How AI Is Reshaping Jobs and Skills Across Industries 13:10 “AI Won’t Replace You—Someone Using AI Will” Explained 14:00 Industries Being Transformed by AI Today 16:20 AI in Software Engineering and Developer Tools 18:00 From Self-Driving Cars to Robotics: Where AI Meets the Physical World 20:00 AI in Customer Service and Call Centers 22:10 The Importance of Humans in the Loop 24:10 Ethical Risks and AI Decision-Making in Business 25:30 Balancing Efficiency with Human Judgment 27:00 Can AI Be Creative? Human vs. Machine Innovation 29:00 The Role of AI in Art, Writing, and Original Thinking 31:00 What Boards Should Know About AI Policy & Governance 33:10 Measuring AI ROI: When and How to Track Value 35:00 Ethical Use of AI: Accountability Still Lies with Humans 37:00 Practical Advice for Smaller Companies Adopting AI 39:00 Overcoming Fear and Resistance to AI in the Workplace 41:00 The Power of Everyday AI Use (ChatGPT Example) 43:00 Identifying and Managing AI Risks Effectively 45:00 The Future of AI and Blockchain: Building Trust and Transparency 47:30 Advice for Board Members and CEOs on AI Adoption 49:10 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Change in the AI Age 50:00 Subscribe to API Futures Podcast #APIFutures #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Workforce Stay connected with #AscendLeadership: 📱Instagram: instagram.com/ascendleader 📱LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ascendleader 📱Website: ascendleadership.org