WiseTalk Episode 98: The Great Human Rebrand: Beyond Labels in the Age of AI
Sue Bethanis hosts Merry-Carole Powers, a recognized expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion with over two decades of experience shaping global brands and corporate cultures. As the former Creative Director for Sustainability, Purpose, and DEI at Deloitte and founder of Unicorn Kreative, Powers brings a unique perspective on transcending societal labels to unlock human potential in business.
Topics of Discussion:
- The evolution from traditional DEI approaches to individuality-based human development
- How to leverage personal “zones of genius” to create effective human-AI partnerships
- Practical strategies for leading without labels in organizational settings
- The difference between identity (surface-level categories) and individuality (deeper human traits)
- Essential skills for thriving in an AI-driven workplace: strategy, empathy, and discernment
- Breaking down divisive departmental labels (MQLs vs SQLs) that create organizational silos
- Addressing AI anxiety by helping employees discover and amplify their uniquely human strengths
The conversation reveals practical approaches for organizations to move beyond checkbox diversity toward developing each person’s unique talents, passions, and capabilities. Powers emphasizes that while AI excels at replication, human originality, strategic thinking, and authentic empathy remain irreplaceable assets that become more valuable as automation advances.
RESOURCES
- Book: The Great Human Rebrand: How to Step Out of the Labels That Divide Us and Into the Humanity That Unites Us
- Website: greathumanrebrand.com
- Company: unicornkreative.com
- Connect: Find Merry-Carole Powers on LinkedIn