AI is evolving fast, but is it actually becoming more human? And what does that mean for leadership, decision-making, and how we create momentum in business?
In this episode, Nora and Bonny explore the fascinating, yet messy, intersection of AI, empathy, and action. With guests Ok Ikejiani and Israel Diaz, they unpack the capabilities, limitations, and leadership implications of AI becoming more and more human. From behavioral models to business strategy, they ask: What happens when tech doesn’t just automate work, but starts to mirror how we think, feel, and decide? And if AI is only as good as the humans behind it, how aligned are we, really?
Key Takeaways:
➡️ AI is a powerful amplifier, but only as strong as the humans and systems behind it.
➡️ Digital transformation isn’t just about technology. It’s about leadership, ethics, and how we show up.
➡️ The best leaders will pair emotional intelligence with digital fluency.
➡️ Sounding human isn’t the same as being human. Know the difference, lead with intention, and keep a ‘human-in-the-loop’.
➡️ AI isn't replacing leadership, it's reshaping it.
Listener Challenge:
Use an AI tool this week, not to replace your thinking, but to test and stretch it. Feed it a leadership challenge or team dilemma. What surprised you? What felt off? Where did your judgment add value?
Our Guests
Ok is a digital strategist and systems thinker who’s spent over a decade at the forefront of AI and digital transformation. As the Founder and CEO of Red Thread Innovations, he helps organizations cut through the noise, see the bigger picture, and builds strategy and applications that actually stick. While many are just beginning to explore AI, OK brings subject matter expertise and a long-range view grounded in experience, not just headlines.
Israel is a creative humanist who believes everyone is a creator. With 30 years of transformational leadership at some of Canada’s top agencies, he’s dedicated his career to helping leaders unlock their genius and leave a bold, meaningful mark on the world. As the Founder of Sunday+Night, he’s now codifying that experience into a radical system for human transformation and recently began exploring how AI can accelerate real-world, real-human impact.
Our Co-Hosts
Strategic Thinker. Bold Challenger. Grounded Visionary.
Bonny is a strategist, facilitator, and co-founder of Sidekick Consulting who believes momentum is built in the middle of the mess. With a background as a CMO and over a decade of experience across startup and corporate environments, she’s known for her sharp thinking, no-nonsense mindset, and ability to turn big ideas into grounded action. Bonny brings a calm presence, clear direction, and just the right amount of edge to move things forward—with intention.
People-Centered Leader. Strategic Integrator. Dynamic Optimist.
Nora is a purpose-driven leader, facilitator, and co-founder of Sidekick Consulting who believes that bold and meaningful impact is accomplished when done together. With deep roots in business development and operations, she’s known for her people-first lens and her talent for uncovering insights and ideas that translate swiftly into action, driving both people and performance. Nora brings a rare blend of energy, empathy, and clarity to build momentum that truly matters.
This podcast was produced by PRCPTN and directed by Giuliana DiBonaventura.