In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli is joined by Benjamin Tasker, an AI learning strategist who has applied artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges in healthcare and education. From predicting cancer risks in rural communities to improving student success rates through early intervention, Tasker has firsthand experience showing leaders how to harness AI for measurable impact.

In their conversation, Tasker pulls back the curtain on what executives need to know before chasing the latest AI headlines. He challenges the idea that AI itself is the solution, underscoring that without clean, reliable data, even the most advanced systems will fail — and fail in ways that can damage trust, reputation, and long-term value.

The discussion goes beyond the hype to explore the dual responsibility leaders face today: mastering the technical fundamentals that make AI work, while doubling down on the human skills that will differentiate leaders in an AI-enabled world. Tasker shares why empathy, communication, and decision-making under uncertainty will become more—not less—important as AI takes over more of the knowledge work inside organizations.

Mahan and Ben also look ahead to the risks on the horizon, including what Tasker calls an inevitable “shock event” in AI — a moment that will test organizational resilience, stakeholder trust, and leadership credibility. The episode is packed with insights for CEOs and senior executives navigating AI’s potential and its pitfalls, making it essential listening for leaders committed to staying ahead in a rapidly shifting environment.

Actionable Takeaways

• Hear why jumping into AI without a clear data strategy can undermine your entire initiative — and what leaders must fix first.
  
• Learn how Tasker helped predict cancer risk factors using AI and what that example reveals about solving complex organizational challenges.
  
• Discover why clean, structured, and trustworthy data is the true competitive advantage in AI adoption.
  
• Understand the balance between building AI-related technical skills and strengthening human leadership capabilities.
  
• Find out which human skills will define leadership success as AI becomes more deeply embedded in decision-making.
  
• Get Tasker’s take on the “AI shock” that could change public trust overnight and how leaders should prepare for it.
  
• Hear how universities and organizations need to shift from time-based credentialing to competency-based skill validation.
  
• Learn the steps Tasker recommends for creating a personal and organizational learning plan to stay ahead in the AI era.
  

Connect with Benjamin Tasker

Benjamin Tasker Website

Benjamin Tasker LinkedIn

Connect with Mahan Tavakoli:

Mahan Tavakoli Website

Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn
Partnering Leadership Website