AI adoption isn’t just a technology challenge - it’s a leadership and psychology challenge.

In this episode of Leadership Today, Andrew Beveridge speaks with behavioural scientist, author and CEO of Disaster Avoidance Experts, Dr Gleb Tsipursky. Drawing on his new book, The Psychology of AI Adoption at Work: From Resistance to Results, Gleb explains why many AI initiatives fail to deliver a return and what leaders can do differently.

They explore the three emotional barriers that often hold employees back: fear of job loss, threats to professional identity, and the social stigma associated with using AI. Gleb shares practical ways to respond, from giving people greater clarity about job security and beginning with tasks they dislike, to role-modelling responsible AI use, providing tailored training, and creating safe spaces for employees to share what is working.

The conversation also looks ahead to a workplace where people increasingly manage teams of AI agents. Andrew and Gleb discuss how this shift could reshape roles, career pathways and leadership - and why skills such as critical evaluation, editing, agent management and sound judgement will become even more valuable.

In this episode:

- Why focusing on technology alone leads many AI initiatives off track
- The three psychological barriers to AI adoption
- How leaders can reduce fear and resistance while building trust
- Why starting with frustrating, repetitive tasks can create momentum
- How role-modelling, training and shared learning can reduce “shadow AI”
- The role of governance and clear guardrails in enabling faster adoption
- Why employees may become managers of AI agents
- How AI could reshape organisational structures and future career paths
- Practical examples of using AI to improve both efficiency and effectiveness

If you’re leading AI adoption - or trying to help your team engage with it more confidently - this episode offers an evidence-informed and practical place to start.

You can find out more about Dr Gleb Tsipursky's new book here: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/aibook/
You can purchase the book via Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-AI-Adoption-Work-Resistance
Learn more about Dr Gleb Tsipursky here: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com