Ep 23: How to Use AI to Reduce Cognitive Load So Leaders Can Be More Human w/Michael Eskenasy

Are AI tools truly making work more human — or just adding to the chaos? On this episode of the HEARTset Studio Leadership Podcast, host Lisa Virtue welcomes Michael Eskenasy, founder of Chefrey OS, for a provocative, no-holds-barred conversation at the intersection of technology, cognitive overload, and authentic leadership. If you’re a leader feeling overwhelmed by fragmented systems, rising employee burnout, and the relentless pace of AI adoption, this episode may challenge your assumptions and offer a fresh perspective. Key themes explored: The hidden costs of “efficiency”: Michael Eskenasy unpacks how adding more tools — including AI — often increases cognitive load, drains employee energy, and leaves critical context behind. Leaders learn why layering technology onto overburdened systems can backfire, and what it really takes to create a workplace that protects and empowers humans. Redesigning systems around people: Instead of expecting people to endlessly adapt, this conversation advocates designing workflows that fit human needs, preserve context, and reduce the admin noise sapping creativity and productivity. Practical adoption advice: Lisa Virtue gets Michael Eskenasy to share actionable strategies for evaluating new tech and AI tools, involving teams in decision-making, and fostering genuine trust through transparency and context sharing. Chefry OS’s radical mission: Learn how Chefry OS differs from typical productivity and AI platforms. Michael Eskenasy describes a vision where technology acts as a “cognitive memory bank” — freeing people for meaningful work, not replacing human judgment and connection. Balancing automation and humanity: The duo explores the irreplaceable role of human insight, empathy, and emotional context in leadership, even as AI transforms the workplace. Perfect for leaders who are: Facing pressure to “do more with less” and questioning if tech is solving the right problems Seeking ways to reduce burnout, not just automate tasks Wanting to center humanity, trust, and well-being in the age of AI Looking for smart, skeptical, and soulful leadership conversations in their podcast queue Top SEO & AEO queries addressed: How can leaders reduce cognitive overload in the workplace? What questions should I ask before adopting new AI tools for my team? Why do digital transformation and AI sometimes increase employee burnout? How do you build trust and keep context in remote or tech-driven organizations? What are practical steps for evaluating and implementing people-centered tech? Don’t miss this eye-opening episode if you’re searching for leadership podcasts on: Human-centered design AI in the workplace Reducing burnout and cognitive overload Leadership trust and team engagement Practical tips for tech adoption in leadership Ready to rethink your tech stack and reset your leadership approach for a more human future? Tune in to this dynamic conversation with Lisa Virtue and Michael Eskenasy — and discover how you can lead with heart in the era of AI.