We’re Sleepwalking Into an AI Problem

Everyone is trying to move faster right now. Faster outputs. Faster decisions. Faster adoption of AI. But somewhere inside that acceleration, many leaders are starting to feel something else too: cognitive overload, constant mental switching, and a growing sense that work is becoming noisier instead of clearer. In this episode, Mark and Naomi unpack two emerging ideas gaining traction in the AI conversation: “AI brain fry” and “cognitive surrender.” Together, they explore what happens when efficiency becomes the default goal, how over-reliance on AI can quietly erode critical thinking, and why HR leaders need to be paying closer attention to the human experience underneath AI adoption. This conversation isn’t anti-AI. It’s about intentional AI use. The discussion explores: - Why productivity pressure may be pushing teams toward unhealthy AI habits - The difference between learning moments and efficiency moments - How AI-generated volume can actually increase cognitive fatigue - Why HR professionals may be especially vulnerable to “brain fry” - What organizations risk losing when human judgment disappears from the process - How leaders can create healthier norms around AI use before bad habits calcify Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that AI should augment human capability, not replace thoughtful human participation in work. **Stay connected with foHRsight** To sign up for our monthly newsletter, foHRsight, click HERE  Follow us on LinkedIn: - Mark Edgar - Naomi Titleman Colla - future foHRward  Follow us on Instagram *For more information on our private community for forward-thinking HR leaders, including how to join our next Manager-Director HR Leader cohort launching this spring, visit our website at* futurefohrward.com/community. *We are also currently welcoming new members in our CHRO and VP+ HRBP & Talent cohorts. Don't miss your chance to join the community you've been missing!* Support the show