What Makes Us Human: Reimagining Intelligence with Vanessa Chang

SHOW OVERVIEW:

Most AI systems still reflect a narrow picture of intelligence. In this conversation, Vanessa Chang invites us to widen that frame — asking what might change if we included more ways of knowing and thinking. What strengths do women and other underrepresented voices bring to that shift? And how can we work with AI in ways that keep us connected to, rather than distanced from, our most human traits?

We explore the gap between doing more and thinking better, the cost of handing over our attention, and the quiet strength in resisting hustle culture for something more rooted. Vanessa also shares how she guides leaders to make room for complexity — and why that skill is becoming essential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Why a broader definition of intelligence matters for shaping more human AI
• What day-to-day collaboration with AI can look like in real life
• How slowing down can sharpen thinking, even during rapid change
• What leadership could become when we stop outsourcing our sense-making

OUR GUEST:

Vanessa Chang is the founder of Mosaek, an AI strategy firm, and the voice behind the RE:Human newsletter. Blending leadership coaching with a deep curiosity about how we think, she helps overthinkers and productivity pros slow down and see clearly in an AI-shaped world. Her work centers on strengthening human judgment — especially in how we work alongside machines. And yes, she’s also a Certified Cheese Professional, which is exactly as delightful as it sounds.