In this episode of The HumAIn Workforce Podcast, I’m joined by David Arnold, a Strategic Change Advisor who supports people through change by utilising the latest evidence-based research on emotional agility, positive psychology and wellbeing. Together, we explore how AI is reshaping job design, the emotional toll of transformation and how change professionals and HR leaders can build truly human-centred organisations in the age of artificial intelligence.

Guest Bio:

Recognised nationally for his innovative and creative change engagements, David has come to realise that without the people affected by change building their emotional agility, it’s unlikely that any change will be truly successful. In a world where change is already constant and relentless, he believes the acceleration of AI means that we’re all likely to experience increased and more rapid change in the near future.

David also co-hosts the Coffee with Fleur podcast alongside Fleur Mouchemore, where they help people leverage positive emotions, build engagement, deepen the meaning in their work, foster strong relationships, and reach personal and professional goals—all vital in a world of inevitable change.

5 Key Points from the Episode:

1. Change Fatigue in the AI Era (02:40)

David unpacks alarming statistics on employee change fatigue and shares insight on how stacked, relentless change, including from AI, impacts personal and professional wellbeing.

2. Curiosity & Caution: The Emotional Response to AI (08:21)

Two powerful emotions—curiosity and caution—frame the human experience of AI. Sarah and David explore how leaders can strike a healthy balance when bringing AI into the organisation.

3. Strategic Role of Change in AI Adoption (13:16)

Why change professionals must be at the decision-making table from the start. David shares insights on strategic advisory roles, the courage required of leaders, and what HR and tech teams must co-create.

4. AI as a Skilled Intern: Tools & Tech for Good (23:31)

From AI-generated transcripts and summaries to communication support, David shares how change professionals are already using AI for good and what that means for productivity and impact.

5. Resilience & Wellbeing for Change Professionals (31:56)

With so much focus on supporting others, who supports the change professionals? David introduces the Broaden-and-Build model developed by Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and explains how to build intellectual, psychological, social and physical capacity to stay strong and effective.

Links:

Connect with David Arnold:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnolddj

Coffee with Fleur Podcast: https://www.coffeewithfleurpodcast.au/

Connect with Your Host – Sarah Lawrence:

To connect or provide feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, you can contact Sarah Lawrence on linkedin.com/in/sarah-lawrence-24b03b127 or email her at thehumainworkforce@gmail.com

Website: https://practicalworkforceplanning.com/

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