The value of podcasting is in helping to change mindsets and, in so doing, building a relationship with the audience. For Thought Leaders, it is such an incredibly powerful tool to educate and nurture audiences, from existing clients to new ones you are yet to meet.
In a compelling episode of the Biz Bites Thought Leadership podcast (produced by Podcasts Done For You who co-host podcasts for your brand to grow its client base by helping your stand out as a voice of briliance), nine distinguished business leaders from across Australia, New Zealand, and the United States came together to share their perspectives on the current market landscape and the impact of artificial intelligence on business. Their diverse backgrounds – spanning technology, finance, creative arts, and business advisory – provided a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing organisations in 2025.
The Market Pulse: From Volatility to Opportunity
The episode begins with each expert sharing their one-word assessment of the current market state, revealing a fascinating spectrum of viewpoints. While some saw challenges, others identified emerging opportunities in the evolving business landscape.
Murray Fulton, a business advisory partner with Advantage Business in New Zealand, emphasised the volatile nature of today’s market: “AI is an undeniable element… it’s moving so fast. Anyone who says they’re an expert on it is possibly lying, but it’s moving through the markets in terms of automation.”
Evan Shellshear, Managing Director and Group CEO of Ubidy, offered a more measured perspective: “The hype is doing AI a disservice and making it feel like it can do more than it can. As impressive as tools like ChatGPT are, we’re yet to see the impact on the bottom line.”
Technology and Human Intelligence: Finding the Balance
The discussion revealed interesting insights about the intersection of technology and human capability. Igor Portugal, author of “Unasked Question”, provided an optimistic outlook: “I firmly believe that AI will eventually lead us to full employment. Looking at the technological trends and what AI enables, it’s going to enable everyone to be a productive contributor to our global economy.”
Sarah Jane Runga, CEO and co-founder of Oconet, offered a more cautionary perspective: “AI has brought in another complexity and another boardroom discussion… but it’s not opening the doors for us to bring in the automation, efficiencies and costs realisation.”
The Business Development Perspective
Ben Paul, CEO of the BD Ladder, shared valuable insights about market recovery: “This part of the world, Australia, New Zealand, it’s probably the first time we’ve had a global recession that’s hit us and hurt us hard and hurt most of our industries… but we’re starting to recover.”
Graham Scott, a consultant and reformed accountant, noted the current market conditions: “The world’s fairly flat at the moment. We’re having interest rates coming down in this country, which is usually when the economy takes off again.”
Creative Industries and AI
Amanda Brock, working in creative arts and health industries, provided a unique perspective on AI’s role in creative fields: “Scripts, you won’t be able to write scripts from AI. It has no soul… it can only provide what we’ve put in. It always comes back to that human input and storytelling.”
Financial and Strategic Considerations
Warren Straubisch, running accounting and financial planning practices, emphasised caution: “I’m cautious because of what’s happening over in America and around the world… given all the legislation changes and things that have occurred in Australia.” Martin Erasmussen, founder of Strats Unlimited, highlighted the broader uncertainty: “Most organisations, because their information infrastructure is so poor, don’t have those gating mechanisms to sort out what can we ignore and what do we actually need to pay our attention to.”
Key Takeaways for Businesses
- Balanced Approach to AI: While AI presents significant opportunities, it should be viewed as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them.
- Market Recovery: Despite current challenges, there are signs of market recovery, particularly in the Australia-New Zealand region.
- Strategic Adaptation: Businesses need to remain agile and ready to adapt to rapid changes in the market landscape.
- Human Element: The importance of maintaining human creativity, empathy, and authentic connections in business operations remains crucial.
- Opportunity Recognition: Despite market uncertainties, numerous opportunities exist for businesses that can identify and capitalise on them.
Looking Forward
The discussion highlighted that while we’re in a period of significant change and some uncertainty, there are substantial opportunities for businesses that can navigate these challenges effectively. The key lies in maintaining a balance between embracing new technologies like AI while preserving the human elements that drive business success. As Igor Portugal aptly summarised: “I personally believe that the AI in AI, the intelligence is a very misleading word. I don’t believe there’s anything intelligent about AI. It’s just a better way of organising data and a much smarter technology to use and implement.” The episode serves as a valuable resource for business leaders looking to understand the current market dynamics and prepare their organisations for future success. It emphasises that while technology will continue to evolve and transform business operations, the fundamental principles of good business practice – including human creativity, strategic thinking, and authentic relationships – remain essential for success. For those interested in learning more about navigating these challenges and opportunities, the full episode of Biz Bites provides additional insights and practical advice from these experienced business leaders.
*The Biz Bites Thought Leadership podcast is produced Podcasts Done For You, dedicated to exposing other people’s brilliance through professional podcast production including co-hosting your branded show (so all you have to do is show up as the expert). For more information, follow the link in the footer to book a time to discuss your podcast.
