What if we turned work on its head entirely?
Why inner technology might be the key to navigating the future of work
In this episode of Work is Weird Now, Alice Phillips and Dan Emery are joined by Sunil Malhotra for a conversation that blends two worlds you might not expect to collide: yoga and artificial intelligence.
At first glance, AI and yoga seem like opposites—one driven by complex algorithms and automation, the other by introspection and ancient wisdom. But as Sunil explains, they share a surprising connection when it comes to how we understand work, leadership, and ourselves.
The Weirdness of Work
“Work is always weird,” Sunil reminds us. That’s because systems—whether organisations, economies, or technologies—are inherently chaotic. But as AI accelerates change in the workplace, that weirdness is becoming impossible to ignore.
Sunil argues that while AI will undoubtedly disrupt traditional jobs, especially those considered “higher skilled,” the real challenge lies deeper: our current education systems and organisational structures are outdated for this new world.
Yoga as Inner Technology
Beyond the poses and postures, yoga offers a pathway to inner clarity, resilience, and self-awareness—tools that are becoming essential as work grows more unpredictable. Sunil describes yoga as “inner technology,” equipping individuals to meet external change with calm and wisdom.
And crucially, wisdom—unlike traditional intelligence—cannot be taught in a classroom or coded into a machine. It emerges through lived experience, reflection, and self-discovery.
A Human-Centered Approach to Work
The conversation also explores the urgent need for organisations to evolve. Top-down governance models, rigid hierarchies, and outdated definitions of success no longer serve individuals or society. Instead, Sunil calls for workplaces where people are empowered to lead themselves, collaborate authentically, and define their own paths.
As AI reshapes industries, the leaders of tomorrow won’t be the ones who command and control—but those who inspire, support, and foster growth.
Practical Advice for the Future of Work
The takeaway? We need both technology and human wisdom to thrive in this strange new world of work. That means:
Taking responsibility for our own personal and professional growth
Prioritising self-discovery as a leadership tool
Rethinking education to value wisdom, not just knowledge
Creating workplaces that balance structure with individual freedom
In short, the future of work is weird—but with inner clarity and conscious leadership, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Listen to the full episode to dive deeper into:
The intersection of AI and ancient wisdom
How yoga helps us lead ourselves
Why “work” needs a new definition
The role of culture in shaping careers
Practical steps for organizations navigating AI
🎙️ Listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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