Reinventing Leadership, Technology & Communication in Disruption | DisrupTV Ep. 35
In Episode 35 of DisrupTV, hosts R “Ray” Wang and Vala Afshar sit down with:
- Kare Anderson, founder of the Say It Better Center and Emmy winner
- Otto Berkes, Chief Technology Officer at CA Technologies
- Larry Dignan, Editor in Chief at ZDNet
The conversation spans how to lead with clarity and empathy, how technology must be rethought for agility, and how communication drives trust and transformation. The guests weave together perspectives from leadership, engineering, media, and storytelling to offer a holistic view of thriving amid disruption.
Key Takeaways
Leadership is Story & Connection First
Kare Anderson argues that compelling narratives and emotional resonance are essential tools for leaders. Leadership isn’t just about decisions — it’s about inspiring people through story and meaning.
Technology Must Be Adaptive & Human-Centered
Otto Berkes emphasizes that tech decisions must center human needs. Systems should be built not only for performance but for adaptability, feedback loops, and real-world usability.
Media & Communication Shape Perception and Trust
Larry Dignan underscores that in an era of rapid information flow, how organizations communicate — transparency, consistency, clarity — becomes strategic armor.
Emotional Intelligence as a Strategic Asset
The guests stress that understanding emotional dynamics, fears, and motivations inside organizations helps leaders align teams, reduce resistance, and foster resilience.
Purpose Aligns Strategy and Action
A recurring theme: organizations that articulate authentic purpose not only gain loyalty but also create a guiding framework for decisions, culture, and adaptation.
Final Thoughts
In a world of accelerating change, this episode reinforces that leadership, technology, and communication must evolve together. It’s not enough to adopt new tools — leaders must speak with purpose, build tech with human sensibility, and use communication as a strategic lever.
Kare Anderson’s focus on narrative and emotional connection, Otto Berkes’ emphasis on adaptable and humane systems, and Larry Dignan’s insights on communication governance together form a guide: lead with story, build for change, and communicate with integrity.
Disruption favors the prepared — not just those with bold ideas, but those who can articulate them clearly, adapt them quickly, and guide people through the journey.
Related Episodes
- Ep. 36 – “Mobile Strategy & Impact Investing” — how tech and purpose intersect
- Ep. 37 – “Purpose, Growth & Customer Obsession” — aligning mission, culture, and growth strategy
- Ep. 43 – “Storytelling, Brand & Marketing Innovation” — narrative as leverage in transformation
