The Future of Work, Learning, & Leadership: Gary Bolles On The Impact Of Exponential Technologies

Feb 1, 2026

Gary Bolles, chair for the future of work at Singularity University and author of The Next Rules of Work, guides a tour of how exponential technologies reshape work, learning, and organizations. He explores rethinking education timing, using AI as a collaborative classroom tool, skills-based hiring and apprenticeships, and practical models for hybrid, learner-centered days.

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INSIGHT

Technologies Reshape Work, Learning, Organizations

Exponential technologies reshape work, learning, and organizations simultaneously.
Leaders must understand impacts and strategies to use technology positively.

INSIGHT

Unbundle The Industrial Classroom Model

Industrial-era classroom design no longer fits modern learning goals.
Decouple content delivery from social learning and design for team-based growth.

ADVICE

Prioritize Learning Mindset First

Teach learners to love learning and to learn how to learn as primary goals.
Build mindset and skillset foundations before specialized content.

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In this episode, we sit down with Gary Bolles, a globally recognized thought leader on the future of work, learning, and organizational transformation. As Chair for the Future of Work at Singularity University, partner at Charrette LLC, and co-founder of eParachute.com, Gary has spent decades helping individuals, organizations, and communities navigate disruptive change in an era defined by exponential technologies.

Gary shares insights from his acclaimed book, The Next Rules of Work, and discusses the mindset, skillset, and methods leaders need to thrive in a rapidly evolving work landscape. From strategies for lifelong learning to fostering inclusive capitalism, we explore how to leverage technology, innovation, and collaboration to create meaningful impact…

This conversation outlines:

The ways that "exponential technologies" can impact organizations, industries, and personal lives – and strategies to use them in positive ways.
How leaders can prepare for post-pandemic work and digital transformation
The critical skills and mindsets shaping the workforce of the future.
The ways in which in-person learning differs from digital learning.

Ready to expose yourself to actionable frameworks and inspiration to thrive in an age of exponential change? Click play now!

You can learn more about Gary and his work here.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

Keep up with Gary Bolles socials here:

X: https://x.com/gbolles

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/gabolles

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🛍️ Recommended Books from this Episode

📖 The Next Rules of Work: The Mindset, Skillset and Toolset to Lead Your Organization through Uncertainty – A forward-thinking guide for leaders navigating change, uncertainty, and modern workplace transformation. 👉 Get it here

📘 What Color Is Your Parachute?: Your Guide to a Lifetime of Meaningful Work and Career Success – A timeless career classic packed with tools to find meaningful work, clarify strengths, and build long-term career success. 👉 Check it out

📙 How to Raise Successful People: Simple Lessons for Radical Results – A powerful book on leadership through parenting, teaching how to develop confidence, capability, and success from childhood onward. 👉 Explore it here

📕 The Future of Work: Attract New Talent, Build Better Leaders, and Create a Competitive Organization – A practical roadmap for building stronger teams, attracting top talent, and creating a high-performing organization in the modern era. 👉 Discover it here

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