Right now, companies are leaning hard on AI—sometimes instead of people. Engagement is tanking, anxiety is spiking, and most leaders have no playbook. We unpack why workers sneak AI into their jobs, how silence from the top fuels fear, and why “pizza parties” don’t solve the fulfillment gap.
The real story: engagement ≠ purpose. People want meaning, not slogans. And AI, like an Ivy League intern, can’t deliver that alone. Leaders need to connect tools, people, and mission—or risk losing their best talent.
TL;DR
AI intern: smart but needs human guidance.
Engagement ≠ fulfillment: employees want purpose, not perks.
Fear gap: no AI policy = employees assume worst.
Work-life is merging: productivity ≠ meaning.
Future leaders: integrators who connect tech + humanity.
Memorable lines
“AI is like having an Ivy League intern—smart, fast, but still an intern.”
“Engagement is attention. Fulfillment is purpose. Don’t confuse the two.”
“If leaders don’t talk about AI, employees will imagine the worst.”
Guest
Jaime Raul Zepeda — CEO, Best Companies Group; 15 years studying engagement; former VP at Great Place to Work.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimezepeda/
Website: https://jaimeraulzepeda.com/
Why this matters
To thrive in the AI era, companies must design for reality: clear AI policies, honest leadership, and cultures where people find meaning—not just a paycheck.
Call to Action
If this conversation lit something up for you, don’t just let it fade. Come join me inside the Second Life Leader community on Skool. That’s where I share the frameworks, field reports, and real stories of reinvention that don’t make it into the podcast. You’ll connect with other professionals who are actively rebuilding and leading with clarity. The link is in the show notes—step inside and start building your Second Life today.
