EP1: Jess Von Bank on Curiosity, Impact, and Redefining Work in the AI Era

Aug 13, 2025

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In this candid first episode of Now to Next, Jason Averbook sits down with Jess Von Bank for a deeply human conversation on curiosity as a leadership superpower, why burnout is a design flaw of legacy work systems, the difference between optics and impact, a clear-eyed take on DEI and equity, and how AI’s value exchange should be measured in human impact. From growing up in rural North Dakota to building a global community, leading Diverse Daisies, raising three daughters, even racing for the “thrill of the hunt,” Jess shares how purpose, community, and reciprocity shape better systems—for people and for business.

Guest Bio:

Jess Von Bank is a Global Leader in HR Transformation & Technology Advisory, an industry analyst at Mercer and Now of Work Community leader, and President of Diverse Daisies. A prominent voice in HR and work tech, she is known for shaping industry dialogue, advising solution providers on product–market fit and storytelling, and leading Diverse Daisies, a non-profit dedicated to expanding opportunities for girls.

A sought-after speaker and writer, Jess focuses on redesigning systems—work, technology, and policy—so people and business can thrive together. She brings a unique blend of strategic insight, community leadership, and human-centered vision to every stage she steps on and every organization she advises.

Follow Jason Averbook:

Substack: https://substack.com/@jasonaverbook X: https://x.com/jasonaverbook LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonaverbook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonaverbook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nowtonextwithjasonaverbook Facebook: https://facebook.com/jasonaverbook

Follow Jess Von Bank:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessvonbank/

(0:00) Introduction and welcome (1:06) Jess Von Bank's background and storytelling in leadership (5:12) The role of curiosity in system design and burnout (11:49) Common threads in varied roles and the optics versus impact in leadership (20:19) Leadership challenges and DEI perspectives (27:03) Addressing gaps in DEI: Data, design, and understanding workforce needs (30:11) AI: Opportunities, challenges, and its future impact (37:53) Focusing on people over jobs and relearning in the AI era (46:53) Lightning round: Future of companies and skills for HR leaders (52:29) Defining the future of work and redefining reciprocity (54:35) Closing remarks