Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming workplaces and what occupational health professionals need to know to support organizations and employees through this evolving landscape. Dr. Lara Shemtob shares insights with Kat Barnard on the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for managing AI integration in the workplace.

In this episode:

• The broad impact of AI beyond office roles, touching healthcare, education, and manual trades
• The importance of a coherent narrative for AI adoption and addressing employee anxiety
• Historical parallels: Digital transformation, social media, cloud computing, and lessons learned
• How organizational culture influences AI adoption, including ground rules and experimentation
• The critical role of communication, research, and internal feedback in supporting a smooth transition
• The significance of understanding job roles and tasks to identify AI opportunities
• Managing uncertainty and change using cyclical, human-centered frameworks like the Prochaska model
• Practical advice for occupational health teams supporting psychological resilience and adaptability

Resources & Links:

• Prochaska, DiClemente, and Norcross’s Transtheoretical Model of Change
• Megan Wright and John Higgins' research on spaciousness
• Huberman Lab Podcast - Neuroscience of Change
• Working the Future - Advisory firm on Work Trends

Connect with Kat Barnard:

• LinkedIn

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.