Exploring Leadership and AI with Anand Tharanathan
Wed Dec 24 2025
Exploring Leadership and AI with Anand Tharanathan
In this engaging episode of our podcast, we delve into the world of leadership and Artificial Intelligence with Anand Tharanathan, GVP of Product Research and Insights at ServiceNow. Anand shares his journey from an individual contributor to a leadership role, emphasizing the importance of empathy, mentorship, and learning from failure. He discusses his unique perspective on leadership drawn from his experiences in sports and how this has influenced his professional growth.
Anand also provides insights into the rapidly evolving field of AI, comparing it with human automation and highlighting the importance of keeping the human element in the loop. He addresses the challenges and nuances of designing AI systems that enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. Additionally, Anand discusses how to strike a balance between being product-centric and people-centric, and the crucial role of adaptability in navigating technological advancements.
Towards the end of the conversation, Anand outlines a framework for effectively using AI and advises on avoiding common pitfalls when integrating AI into new products. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in leadership, AI, and the future of technology. Join us and gain valuable insights from industry experts!
Guest - Anand Tharanathan, GVP of Product Research and Insights at ServiceNowGuest Host - Apurva Korde
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Discussing UX Research and AI01:18 Leadership Journey and Insights03:45 The Role of Mentors and Managers09:59 Design Leadership vs. Conventional Leadership13:56 Balancing Product and People-Centric Leadership17:55 Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes18:56 Navigating the AI Revolution19:14 Staying Calm and Curious in the AI Era20:45 Insights from a Tech Leader on AI21:42 Designing Human-Centric AI Experiences26:32 The Importance of Human in the Loop31:24 Frameworks for AI Use and Misuse34:25 Building AI-Powered Products36:37 Balancing AI and Business Goals38:45 Concluding Thoughts on AI
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More
Exploring Leadership and AI with Anand Tharanathan In this engaging episode of our podcast, we delve into the world of leadership and Artificial Intelligence with Anand Tharanathan, GVP of Product Research and Insights at ServiceNow. Anand shares his journey from an individual contributor to a leadership role, emphasizing the importance of empathy, mentorship, and learning from failure. He discusses his unique perspective on leadership drawn from his experiences in sports and how this has influenced his professional growth. Anand also provides insights into the rapidly evolving field of AI, comparing it with human automation and highlighting the importance of keeping the human element in the loop. He addresses the challenges and nuances of designing AI systems that enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. Additionally, Anand discusses how to strike a balance between being product-centric and people-centric, and the crucial role of adaptability in navigating technological advancements. Towards the end of the conversation, Anand outlines a framework for effectively using AI and advises on avoiding common pitfalls when integrating AI into new products. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in leadership, AI, and the future of technology. Join us and gain valuable insights from industry experts! Guest - Anand Tharanathan, GVP of Product Research and Insights at ServiceNowGuest Host - Apurva Korde 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Discussing UX Research and AI01:18 Leadership Journey and Insights03:45 The Role of Mentors and Managers09:59 Design Leadership vs. Conventional Leadership13:56 Balancing Product and People-Centric Leadership17:55 Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes18:56 Navigating the AI Revolution19:14 Staying Calm and Curious in the AI Era20:45 Insights from a Tech Leader on AI21:42 Designing Human-Centric AI Experiences26:32 The Importance of Human in the Loop31:24 Frameworks for AI Use and Misuse34:25 Building AI-Powered Products36:37 Balancing AI and Business Goals38:45 Concluding Thoughts on AI See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.