Mitch Joel's Blog: Six Pixels of Separation, page 39

From Earbuds To Eyeballs – Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast Is Now Available On YouTube.

I can be so stupid.

I noticed a new content consumption habit that I had over the past few months.
I am increasingly “watching” podcasts on YouTube, instead of just listening to the audio.
Even when I am “on the go,” I will default to the YouTube episode (so that the timing is synched when I want to continue the show later on at my office or at home).
Here’s something we all know (nothing shocking here): YouTube is one of the first places people go for their podcasts (both for video and audio).

Here’s me being stupid…

Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast has been audio only and has never been distributed on YouTube.
I know… pretty stupid (I told you).
Well, that’s changed as of now.

The world changes… We change… I change.

I always imagined that Six Pixels would be an audio only show (my running self-deprecating joke is that I have a face for radio/audio).
But looking beyond the data staring me in the face, it was hard to argue that my personal preference was to “watch” the conversation unfold.
So, if you head over to the recently launched ThinkersOne YouTube page, you can now watch the last few months of episodes and all new episodes will be published there going forward.

Please be patient.

While the audio version of the podcast is polished, edited and refined for your earholes, the YouTube version is the raw video recording of the conversation… including vocal ticks… some video/audio hiccups and more fun adventures in video.

My simple ask of you…

Whether you are going to watch/listen to Six Pixels of Separation on YouTube or not, please help us by subscribing to the channel.
I’d love it if you would, “like, comment and subscribe” as the influencers du jour like to say.

A legacy of thought leadership.

Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast was first released in May 2006 (yes, 18 years ago).
The show is published every Sunday morning.
The show has never missed a Sunday since it’s inception.
The show is a veritable who’s who of business leaders, thinkers and non-fiction authors (including people like Tom Peters, Susan Cain, Marc Maron, Amy Edmondson, Simon Sinek, Gretchen Rubin, Steve Wozniak, Baratunde Thurston, Rita McGrath, Dan Pink, Scott Galloway and countless others).
The podcast is ranked in the top 1% of most popular shows out of close to 3 million podcasts globally.
The shows runs about one hour in length.

Six Pixels of Separation in the content platform of ThinkersOne.

ThinkersOne is a unique way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video experiences (live and pre-recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world.
If your business is looking to add insight, excitement, and big smarts to your regularly scheduled meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, I know that you will love ThinkersOne.
ThinkersOne has democratized access to the smartest people by providing a platform for these incredible, personalized and affordable “moments in time.”

Please subscribe to Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast on YouTube.

Swapping Screens For Scenes In A French Village – Seine-Port’s Public Smartphone Ban

If you needed to know where to find the best chocolatine in the quaint French village of Seine-Port, what would you do?

You’d Google it… wouldn’t you?
Well… maybe watch you should watch your step on those cobblestones if you’re trying to do that in public over there.
A groundbreaking referendum has ignited a global conversation about the role of technology (mostly smartphones) in public life.
With a decisive vote to restrict smartphone use in public spaces, this community of fewer than 2,000 residents, is challenging the omnipresence of digital distraction, advocating for a return to face-to-face communication and heightened community engagement.

Would you go along with this?

This radical (but we managed for centuries like this) move seeks to restore a sense of social cohesion, often diluted by the constant attention smartphones demand in public arenas.
But we’ve changed… digital connectivity underpins both our social and professional lives, and such restrictions could be perceived as regressive (even.. authoritarian).
Critics argue that this new law not only infringes on personal freedom but also overlooks the integral role of digital tools in modern communication, information access, and navigation.

Will this move be an inspiration for other cities to follow or a dire warning?

The enforcement of this ban presents challenges from the unnecessary policing on personal behavior to infringing on individual rights and freedoms (though the city has made it clear that this will not happen, I’d be curious to see how neighbors and tourists interact with one another).

Trust me, it’s all to make your life better and easier…

It’s hard to deny what we humans often know what’s best for us, but do the exact opposite.
Do your own self-assessment.
Are you really in control of your digital life?
Does all of this access have any impact on your mental health and social relationships (you never get jealous checking out someone else’s life on Instagram?).

This village is advocating for a collective digital detox.

Who doesn’t believe in the need to balance technology’s benefits with its potential to disrupt social interaction and individual well-being?

But, we have to be careful.

It’s never a one-size-fits-all situation.
This ban fails to consider the varied degrees of digital literacy and dependency across the population, inadvertently neglecting the essential role digital tools play in education, work, and health management for many individuals.
Let’s not forget about how much a smartphone has changed the lives of countless people with their own physical and psychological challenges.
Seine-Port’s referendum signals a cultural pivot towards mindfulness and presence, advocating for a community that prioritizes real-world interactions.
Still, it feels like imposing restrictions on technology use may not address digital distraction’s underlying causes.
Fostering education on mindful technology use and promoting personal choice could offer a more effective, less intrusive means of encouraging better well-being?

Seine-Port is not alone.

Pew Research Center published their brand-new report, How Teens and Parents Approach Screen Time, which highlighted some concerning data points:
“Most teens at least sometimes feel happy and peaceful when they don’t have their phone, but 44% say this makes them anxious. Half of parents say they have looked through their teen’s phone.”

What’s your take?

This is what Elias Makos and I discussed on CJAD 800 AM. Listen in right here.

Mitch Joel · Swapping Screens For Scenes In A French Village – Seine-Port's Public Smartphone Ban

Before you go… ThinkersOne is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

Andrew McAfee On Embracing The Geek Way – This Week’s Six Pixels of Separation Podcast

Episode #923 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast is now live and ready for you to listen to

He’s a hugely respected thought leader and practitioner at the intersection of technology and business. Andrew McAfee offers a compelling exploration of The Geek Way in his latest book, which redefines our approach to innovation and leadership. As a Principal Research Scientist at the MIT Sloan School of Management and the co-founder of MIT’s Initiative on the Digital Economy, Andy has been at the forefront of how technological progress reshapes our world. Andy unpacks the essence of The Geek Way, revealing it as more than just a cultural shift. It’s a transformative approach to achieving extraordinary results across industries. The book, characterized by an unwavering commitment to science, speed, ownership, and openness, emerges not only as a pathway to success but as a better model for realizing company goals and fostering innovation. As geek culture transitions from the fringes to the mainstream (look no further than Marvel movies), admired for its dedication to evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving, Andy highlights the profound impact of this mindset on business practices and societal progress. One of the most compelling aspects of Andy’s work is the application of The Geek Way to the realm of artificial intelligence. In an era where AI’s potential to revolutionize industries is often met with equal parts enthusiasm and apprehension, Andy provides a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the transformative power of AI as a tool for economic progress while addressing the societal implications of job displacement, advocating for iterative learning and adaptation as keys to harnessing AI’s benefits. His previous books include More From Less, Machine. Platform. Crowd, The Second Machine Age (with Erik Brynjolfsson – which I adored), Race Against The Machine and Enterprise 2.0. For leaders, innovators, and anyone curious about the intersection of technology and business, this podcast and Andy’s insights are indispensable. Enjoy the conversation…

You can grab the latest episode of Six Pixels of Separation here (or feel free to subscribe via Apple Podcast or whatever platform you may choose):  #923 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

SPOS #923 – Andrew McAfee On Embracing The Geek Way

Welcome to episode #923 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast.

Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast – Episode #923. He’s a hugely respected thought leader and practitioner at the intersection of technology and business. Andrew McAfee offers a compelling exploration of The Geek Way in his latest book, which redefines our approach to innovation and leadership. As a Principal Research Scientist at the MIT Sloan School of Management and the co-founder of MIT’s Initiative on the Digital Economy, Andy has been at the forefront of how technological progress reshapes our world. Andy unpacks the essence of The Geek Way, revealing it as more than just a cultural shift. It’s a transformative approach to achieving extraordinary results across industries. The book, characterized by an unwavering commitment to science, speed, ownership, and openness, emerges not only as a pathway to success but as a better model for realizing company goals and fostering innovation. As geek culture transitions from the fringes to the mainstream (look no further than Marvel movies), admired for its dedication to evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving, Andy highlights the profound impact of this mindset on business practices and societal progress. One of the most compelling aspects of Andy’s work is the application of The Geek Way to the realm of artificial intelligence. In an era where AI’s potential to revolutionize industries is often met with equal parts enthusiasm and apprehension, Andy provides a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the transformative power of AI as a tool for economic progress while addressing the societal implications of job displacement, advocating for iterative learning and adaptation as keys to harnessing AI’s benefits. His previous books include More From Less, Machine. Platform. Crowd, The Second Machine Age (with Erik Brynjolfsson – which I adored), Race Against The Machine and Enterprise 2.0. For leaders, innovators, and anyone curious about the intersection of technology and business, this podcast and Andy’s insights are indispensable. Enjoy the conversation…

Running time: 1:04:06.Hello from beautiful Montreal.Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts.Please visit and leave comments on the blog – Six Pixels of Separation.Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook.Check out ThinkersOne.or you can connect on LinkedIn.…or on Twitter.Here is my conversation with Andrew McAfee.The Geek Way.Second Machine Age.Race Against The Machine.More From Less.Machine. Platform. Crowd.Enterprise 2.0.MIT’s Initiative on the Digital Economy.MIT Sloan School of Management.Follow Andrew on X.Follow Andrew on LinkedIn.This week’s music: David Usher ‘St. Lawrence River’.

Takeaways:

Geek culture has evolved from being stigmatized to being admired and accepted.The Geek Way is characterized by norms such as science, speed, ownership, and openness.The Geek Way can lead to better outcomes for companies and is more effective in achieving goals.Leadership plays a crucial role in driving the adoption of the Geek Way and overcoming challenges. Visionary leaders are not essential for the ‘geek way’ to thrive in various industries.Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that can accelerate economic progress.Concerns about job displacement and societal implications of AI.Letting go of personal hangups is crucial for embracing new opportunities and growth.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Geek Culture03:34 – The Evolution of Geek and Geek Culture09:44 – The Geek Way and Business Geeks14:11 – The Geek Way and Big Tech19:11 – The Geek Way and the Post-Pandemic Workforce25:34 – The Geek Way and Technology Impact30:53 – Geek Leaders and Their Characteristics36:55 – The Geek Way in Other Industries45:21 – The Heart of Science46:09 – Geek Way in Solving Wicked Problems47:38 – Geek Way in Prosaic Industries47:46 – Artificial Intelligence and its Impact53:27 – Concerns and Optimism about Artificial Intelligence56:23 – The Role of Critical and Emergent Thinking59:48 – Letting Go of Hangups

Download the Podcast here: Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast – Episode #923.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

Six Links That Make You Think #716

Is there one link, story, picture or thought that you saw online this week that you think somebody you know must see?

My friends: Alistair Croll (Solve for Interesting, Tilt the Windmill, Interesting Bits, HBS, chair of Strata, Startupfest, FWD50, and Scaletechconf; author of Lean Analytics and some other books), Hugh McGuire (Rebus Foundation, PressBooks, LibriVox) and I decided that every week the three of us are going to share one link for one another (for a total of six links) that each individual feels the other person “must see.”

Check out these six links that we’re recommending to one another: 

David Bowie & Nine Inch Nails – Dissonance – Live 1995 – Bloom – YouTube. “I found the following two links through a Reddit thread about artists hearing others cover their songs. First up: When it goes right. Here’s Trent Reznor (from Nine Inch Nails), joined by David Bowie, singing ‘Hurt’. The Crooner King could make anything sound distinctively his, and this is no exception. You can literally see Reznor smiling (very out of character for NIN) and nodding, having a hard time believing this is happening.” (Alistair for Mitch). José Feliciano Performs ‘Every Breath You Take’ At The Polar Music Prize Ceremony 2017 – Polar Music Prize – YouTube . “And then when it isn’t so good. The Polar Music Prize is an annual prize for one popular and one classical musician, funded by ABBA manager, Stig Anderson. Sting was awarded the prize in 2017, with celebrities filling the auditorium. And then he – notorious for his (gentle but firm) opinions on his songs being played a certain way, had to watch this, umm, uncharacteristic performance of ‘Every Breath You Take’. The closeups on his face are priceless, because he, too, is having a hard time believing this is happening.” (Alistair for Hugh). Miles Davis And The Recording Of A Jazz Masterpiece – Esquire . “The inside scoop on what it was like when Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Bill Evans and a few more to round out the sextet, got together to record the best-selling jazz album of all time.” (Hugh for Alistair). The Longest-Living People In The World All Abide By The ‘Power 9’ Rule – GQ . “I recently found out that I have high blood pressure (genetics, both my parents had it), which is called the ‘silent killer’, because there are rarely any symptoms, but it can cause all sorts of really bad things like strokes and heart disease. For the first time in my life, my mortality is really on my mind. Here are nine easy(ish) ways that people in the Blue Zone (areas of the world with high longevity) stay healthy.” (Hugh for Mitch). How Teens And Parents Approach Screen Time – Pew Research Center . “One of the ways that we have lost our moral compass is in how we have allowed content from mobile devices (whether it’s social media, news or even messaging one another) to take over every interaction we have. From having our phones on the table while we dine with friends to constantly reaching for our pockets in an attempt to see every ping, reminder and beep that we get. We have become numb to it. Notifications have become our lives’ primary attention grabber. Our numbness has led to a bigger problem: Our kids. One of the most frequent conversation topics I find myself in with other parents, revolves around the theme: ‘How do you control access to screens? From screen time to routers and beyond?’ It’s a constant battle, and it’s one that is hard to wage in a world where the parents are often worse with their smartphone etiquette than their kids. So… the kids wind up modeling their parents. It’s a vicious circle. Here’s a study that just dropped from Pew Research Center that you might find sobering…” (Mitch for Alistair). My Podcast Tech Stack, Workflows, And Lessons – Lenny Rachitsky . “I love reading and listening to Lenny Rachitsky. I was lucky to get to know him when he lived in Montreal, so watching his ascent in the world of newsletter writing and podcasting has been a pleasure. His content really works and he’s super-generous with showing us all how it happens (including the analytics behind it). This week, he walks through the creation and production of his podcast, and there are some great gems in here. In the past, I have attempted to do the same (for example: The Complete “How To Podcast” Guide – 2023 Edition, The Ultimate Guide To Being A Great Podcast Interviewer and How To Be The Most Popular Guest On Every Podcast). I just love Lenny’s approach. If you’re a podcaster or thinking about starting one, please start here.” (Mitch for Alistair).

Feel free to share these links and add your picks on X, Facebook, in the comments below or wherever you play.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

TikTok On The Chopping Block?

Is TikTok good or bad for society?

First off, I love watching videos on TikTok.
I’ve yet to make any (but I am thinking about it), and I have spoken at a few events for TikTok on the future of innovation and communications.
With that, we’re about to dive into a very complex and political issue: Should TikTok be banned in the United States?
If we ban TikTok over security issues, what happened to the countless issues we’ve heard around social media (access for minors, bullying, hate speech, etc.)? 

Sure, TikTok has emerged as a bastion of creativity, expression, and economic opportunity for creators.

It’s also become a main destination for both news and opinions on current events.
Yet, its meteoric rise from dance videos and karaoke-style quick clips is now shadowed by bipartisan US efforts in Congress to mandate ByteDance (the owners of TikTok) to divest from TikTok, citing national security concerns.
This decisive move (which is moving through the government with lightning speed) underscores the escalating tensions between preserving internet freedom and safeguarding national interests in an increasingly polarized world (relations between China and the US are strained).

And, let’s not forget that it’s a very hot political election cycle (aka follow the money and power).

The unanimity in the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce to advance this legislation against TikTok signifies a rare consensus (which we haven’t seen on other major issues) in a very long time.
The apprehension over foreign influence through control of American data and content curation also highlights the complexities of digital sovereignty in our globally connected world.
Critics (like me) argue that such a ban might pave the way for a fragmented internet, undermining the principles of open exchange and stifling innovation… plus physical borders ruling content that is global (me no like).

The mobilization by content creators and others against the proposed ban only amplifies TikTok’s value in modern media.

TikTok is not just a platform – it’s a lifeline for expression and a marketplace for ideas, embodying the spirit of the digital age – especially when it comes to young people.
Naturally, this mobilization by fans of TikTok is perceived by some legislators as highlighting TikTok’s potential for manipulation, bolstering the case for its regulation or outright ban.

Ugh… is there anything we can do to avoid banning TikTok?

Implementing a comprehensive digital privacy legislation could address these issues more effectively than targeting a single platform (this is being tried in Canada, and it’s seen as a slippery slope away from free speech).
Still, this approach could be a safeguard for American data across all digital platforms, presenting a solution that respects both privacy and free speech.
Let’s face it: A TikTok ban will ripple through the global digital economy and cultural landscape (and will only make the current tech giants… gianter).
TikTok has been huge for content innovation and a springboard for creators and businesses (so much so that both YouTube and Instagram have created their own TikTok-like features).
The debate does highlight the need for an elegant policy that can nurture economic growth and innovation while addressing legitimate security concerns.

We’re at the crossroads right now…

The decisions made tomorrow (when the voting takes place in the US) will shape the digital landscape of the future.
We all need to be sure that it’s not politics and power at play, but an actual path to ensure that we can be both secure and still have videos worth sharing.

This is what Elias Makos and I discussed on CJAD 800 AM. Listen in right here.

Mitch Joel · TikTok On The Chopping Block? – The Elias Makos Show – CJAD 800

Before you go… ThinkersOne is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

John Winsor On Revolutionizing Work With Open Talent – This Week’s Six Pixels of Separation Podcast

Episode #922 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast is now live and ready for you to listen to

When work changes, we look to people like John Winsor. John is a truly visionary leader and a driving force behind the open talent movement. As an entrepreneur, thought leader, and global authority on the future of work, open talent and remote work. John’s contributions have significantly shaped our understanding and approach to modern employment paradigms. John’s role as executive-in-residence at Harvard Business School‘s Laboratory for Innovation Science (LISH) underscores his commitment to exploring the cutting-edge intersections of AI, workforce transformation strategies, and the open talent ecosystem. Through his company, Open Assembly, John has cultivated a content-rich community and strategic advisory services that empower organizations, individuals, and platforms to co-create the future of work together. A pioneer in the open talent and innovation industry, John has spearheaded a global coalition to establish The Center for the Transformation of Work. This ambitious initiative aims to redefine work for a billion people by 2025, showcasing John’s dedication to creating more accessible and equitable work opportunities worldwide. John’s journey from founding the groundbreaking open advertising agency, Victors & Spoils, to his pivotal roles at Havas and Crispin, Porter + Bogusky (where we first met), illustrates a career marked by innovation and disruption. His expertise in co-creation and open strategy (like using user generated content and influencers long before everybody else) has not only transformed the advertising world, but also provided a blueprint for organizational success in the digital age. In his latest book, Open Talent – Leveraging the Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges, John brings his decades of insights into the open talent model for all of us to discover. The book challenges traditional employment models and offers a radical roadmap for leveraging the global crowd. John is a prolific author, including books like Baked In, Flipped, Spark and Beyond The Brand. In this episode, John delves into the essence of open talent, examining its potential to reshape the way we think about work, the gig economy, and the critical role of culture and continuous learning within this new paradigm. He emphasizes the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset and the transformative power of networks in navigating the open talent landscape. From the impact of generative AI to addressing concerns about economic volatility, John’s insights provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the shift towards task-based work. He also highlights the significance of community and team-building in an open talent framework. John’s contributions to the discourse on the future of work offer an inspiring and pragmatic vision for embracing open talent. If you’re seeking to innovate, adapt, and thrive in business today, you’ve come to the right place. Enjoy the conversation…

You can grab the latest episode of Six Pixels of Separation here (or feel free to subscribe via Apple Podcast or whatever platform you may choose):  #922 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

SPOS #922 – John Winsor On Revolutionizing Work With Open Talent

Welcome to episode #922 of Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast.

Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast – Episode #922. When work changes, we look to people like John Winsor. John is a truly visionary leader and a driving force behind the open talent movement. As an entrepreneur, thought leader, and global authority on the future of work, open talent and remote work. John’s contributions have significantly shaped our understanding and approach to modern employment paradigms. John’s role as executive-in-residence at Harvard Business School‘s Laboratory for Innovation Science (LISH) underscores his commitment to exploring the cutting-edge intersections of AI, workforce transformation strategies, and the open talent ecosystem. Through his company, Open Assembly, John has cultivated a content-rich community and strategic advisory services that empower organizations, individuals, and platforms to co-create the future of work together. A pioneer in the open talent and innovation industry, John has spearheaded a global coalition to establish The Center for the Transformation of Work. This ambitious initiative aims to redefine work for a billion people by 2025, showcasing John’s dedication to creating more accessible and equitable work opportunities worldwide. John’s journey from founding the groundbreaking open advertising agency, Victors & Spoils, to his pivotal roles at Havas and Crispin, Porter + Bogusky (where we first met), illustrates a career marked by innovation and disruption. His expertise in co-creation and open strategy (like using user generated content and influencers long before everybody else) has not only transformed the advertising world, but also provided a blueprint for organizational success in the digital age. In his latest book, Open Talent – Leveraging the Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges, John brings his decades of insights into the open talent model for all of us to discover. The book challenges traditional employment models and offers a radical roadmap for leveraging the global crowd. John is a prolific author, including books like Baked In, Flipped, Spark and Beyond The Brand. In this episode, John delves into the essence of open talent, examining its potential to reshape the way we think about work, the gig economy, and the critical role of culture and continuous learning within this new paradigm. He emphasizes the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset and the transformative power of networks in navigating the open talent landscape. From the impact of generative AI to addressing concerns about economic volatility, John’s insights provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the shift towards task-based work. He also highlights the significance of community and team-building in an open talent framework. John’s contributions to the discourse on the future of work offer an inspiring and pragmatic vision for embracing open talent. If you’re seeking to innovate, adapt, and thrive in business today, you’ve come to the right place. Enjoy the conversation…

Running time: 1:00:25.Hello from beautiful Montreal.Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts.Please visit and leave comments on the blog – Six Pixels of Separation.Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook.Check out ThinkersOne.or you can connect on LinkedIn.…or on Twitter.Here is my conversation with John Winsor.Open Talent – Leveraging the Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges.Baked In.Flipped.Spark.Beyond The Brand.Harvard Business School.Open Assembly.Follow John on Facebook.Follow John on Instagram.Follow John on X.Follow John on LinkedIn.This week’s music: David Usher ‘St. Lawrence River’.

Takeaways:

The future of work is shifting towards an open talent model, where individuals have the freedom to work on specific tasks and projects rather than being tied to traditional roles.Companies need to adapt to this new model by rethinking their organizational structures, embracing remote work, and creating platforms that connect talent with opportunities.Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial in an open talent world, as individuals need to stay relevant and adaptable to changing demands.Culture and branding remain important, but they should be focused on attracting and retaining talent based on the value and opportunities the organization provides. Platforms play a crucial role in connecting skilled individuals with opportunities in the open talent market.Generative AI has the potential to significantly impact the open talent landscape, enabling faster and more efficient task completion.Concerns about economic collapse and commoditization arise in the open talent market.Team building and community remain important in an open talent framework, fostering collaboration and connection.Work should be seen as an aspect of life, and individuals should derive their self-worth and identity from a broader range of experiences and relationships.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Background01:20 – Controversial Perspective on Open Talent03:02 – The Changing Landscape of Work04:26 – The Challenges for Business Leaders10:26 – The Impact of the Gig Economy11:46 – The Debate on Employee Benefits13:08 – Task-Oriented Approach vs. Role-Focused Approach14:40 – The Importance of Continuous Learning17:21 – The Evolution of the Freelance Economy19:35 – The Need to Rethink Organizational Structures21:51 – The Role of Culture in an Open Talent World26:16 – Preparing Individuals for an Open Talent World30:08 – The Role of Branding and Culture36:03 – The Importance of an Entrepreneurial Mindset38:56 – The Power of Networks and Micro-Entrepreneurship42:27 – Transition to Open Talent43:14 – Impact of Generative AI44:19 – Open Talent as the Secret Sauce45:08 – Concerns about Economic Collapse46:16 – Global Market and Commoditization47:39 – Team Building in an Open Talent Framework51:18 – Work as an Aspect of Life56:10 – Personal Experiences that Shaped Perspective

Download the Podcast here: Six Pixels of Separation – The ThinkersOne Podcast – Episode #922.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

Six Links Worthy of Your Attention #715

Is there one link, story, picture or thought that you saw online this week that you think somebody you know must see?

My friends: Alistair Croll (Solve for Interesting, Tilt the Windmill, Interesting Bits, HBS, chair of Strata, Startupfest, FWD50, and Scaletechconf; author of Lean Analytics and some other books), Hugh McGuire (Rebus Foundation, PressBooks, LibriVox) and I decided that every week the three of us are going to share one link for one another (for a total of six links) that each individual feels the other person “must see.”

Check out these six links that we’re recommending to one another: 

Indirect Prompt Injection Threats. “I hadn’t really thought about how a third party could hack a chatbot, but then I read this. If you ask an AI a question, it might read a web page to find an answer. If that page contains ‘poisoned’ text that’s hidden to humans but read by the AI, then that page might be able to do nefarious things. Interesting thought experiment that’s already been demonstrated in controlled environments.” (Alistair for Hugh). Cops Called To ‘Willy Wonka Experience’ As Crying Children Realize AI Ads Were Lies – Gizmodo . “What I got from this was: Can the real world possibly compete with a generated promise? If the default reality is much less fun than the augmented, virtual ones, will we spend less time here?” (Alistair for Mitch). Canada Is No Longer One Of The Richest Nations On Earth. Country After Country Is Passing Us By – The Globe & Mail . “Canada is in real trouble, and I can’t understand why catastrophic implications haven’t reached a fever pitch in the political discourse of this country. Our economy is anemic (gowing at 1.7% over the past 10 years), productivity terrible (US productivity has increased at 3x the rate of Canad’s since 2000), we are getting poorer compared to our neighbours (our GDP per capita is now 73% of the USA). Our five poorest provinces are in the six poorest in North America. What does this mean? It means that Canada as a country is going to find it harder and harder to pay for the things we pride ourselves on: Our universal healthcare, our university system, our social safety net. And the country becomes less and less attractive to skilled immigrants, needed to massage our otherwise terrible demographics (another discussion altogether). I cannot understand (well, I suppose I can) why every political party in Canada isn’t making solving these economic problems their top priority.” (Hugh for Alistair). How Universities Killed The Academic – UnHerd . “As our political discourse has become increasingly combative, the academy is slowly purging itself of the brilliant cranks. I love brilliant cranks.” (Hugh for Mitch). Words Of Radiance Leatherbound By Brandon Sanderson – BackerKit . “I’m always surprised when my writer friends haven’t heard of Brandon Sanderson. He is extremely prolific in the Fantasy genre (especially known for his world-building skills). What makes him even more impressive, is how he publishes books. This is an example of that. In a world where most people think there is no money to be made in the writing of books, Sanderson always proves everyone wrong. His latest adventure, is the re-issuing of his classic, Words of Radiance, book via crowdfunding. Now, it’s available in an exclusive, leather bound format. This campaign went live only a few weeks ago, and is clipping very close to $20 million in sales (with 20 days left in the campaign). Super impressive. It also speaks to a broader theme: Authors who find their audience and consistently deliver quality to them, will have a reader for life. Where else in the world can you see somebody re-issuing a book and selling at this scale, without the need of a publisher? My understanding is that Sanderson’s team now consists of over 50 full-time employees, who are helping him to continually build his business and brand. If you’re in the writing game, this deserves a standing ovation. He’s also managed to bill quite the following on TikTok … not that this makes a good reason to read his books, but if you’ve never had the chance… You really should.” (Mitch for Alistair).  The Clutter Of A Used Bookshop Forms An Evocative Metaphor For Memory – Psyche . “I love simple and slow documentaries like this. I also love the feeling of rummaging through book (or comic book) stores that look like this. Finding hidden gems… uncovering books from my childhood… just experiencing something new from something old. With that, the only true thought that ran through my head was: I’d like to be found dead under a pile of books in a store like this when my time has come (hoping for that to be when I am much much older)…” (Mitch for Hugh).

Feel free to share these links and add your picks on X, Facebook, in the comments below or wherever you play.

Before you go… ThinkersOne  is a new way for organizations to buy bite-sized and personalized thought leadership video content (live and recorded) from the best Thinkers in the world. If you’re looking to add excitement  and big smarts to your meetings, corporate events, company off-sites, “lunch & learns” and beyond, check it out.

Jon Button From The Who On This Month’s Groove – The No Treble Podcast

Jon Button from The Who is this month’s conversation on Groove – The No Treble Podcast.

You can listen the new episode right here: Groove – The No Treble Podcast – Episode #111 – Jon Button.

Groove – Episode #111: Jon Button by No Treble

Who is Jon Button?

This Alaskan native – with a biography as rich as his bass lines – Jon Button has plucked, slapped, and strummed his way through the music industry, leaving a mark on genres spanning from pop and jazz to rock. His journey from the icy landscapes of Fairbanks to iconic stages with The Who, reads like a bass clef narrative of dedication, skill, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Jon’s story began at the tender age of four, with a piano as his first companion, setting the stage for a lifelong romance with the four strings. It wasn’t long before the bass guitar caught his fancy (he was only 7 years old), propelling him into a world of jazz, blues, and beyond. By fourteen, Jon was already a familiar face in local bands, showcasing a talent that transcended his years. His high school accolades, including making the All National Orchestra and Jazz Band, were merely the prologue to his storied career. The Berklee College of Music’s summer program was an experience that honed his innate abilities and led him to the University of North Texas – a crucible for his burgeoning talent – where he played in their Grammy-nominated top jazz band. But the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles beckoned, offering Jon a playground for his musical ambitions. In the City of Angels, Jon’s bass became his passport, navigating through gigs that spanned commercial scores, movie soundtracks, and tours with music royalty such as Sheryl Crow, Shakira, and, ultimately, The Who. During our conversation, Jon delves deep into his musical philosophy, reminiscing about the early days, the exhilaration of playing with music icons like Sheryl Crow and Roger Daltrey’s solo band, and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of versatility, reliability, and the art of networking — a trinity that has served as the bedrock of his career. Jon’s narrative is punctuated by his current tenure with The Who, a chapter that he describes with a palpable reverence (it’s not easy to follow in the groovesteps of John Entwistle and Pino Palladino). His playing on the Emmy-winning score for Batman Beyond further highlights his adaptability and the broad spectrum of his musical prowess. Enjoy the conversation…

What is Groove – The No Treble Podcast?

This is an ambitious effort. This will be a fascinating conversation. Our goal at Groove is to build the largest oral history of bass players. Why Groove? Most of the content about the bass revolves around gear, playing techniques, and more technical chatter. For us, bassists are creative artists with stories to tell. They are a force to be reckon with. These are the stories and conversation that we will capture. To create this oral history of why these artists chose the bass, what their creative lives are like, and where inspiration can be found.

Listen in:  Groove – The No Treble Podcast – Episode #111 – Jon Button.

Are you interested in what’s next? How to decode the future? I publish between 2-3 times per week and then the Six Pixels of Separation Podcast comes out every Sunday. Feel free to subscribe (and tell your friends).