#570 AI Robotics, and the Future of Work: Keeping People at the Center | Kate McAfoose

Can artificial intelligence and robotics make businesses more efficient without replacing the people who make them successful? As AI and automation continue to transform industries, business leaders face an important challenge: How do we embrace new technologies while protecting jobs, strengthening teams, and keeping people at the center of innovation? In this episode of the Rise Up For You Podcast, host Nada Lena Nasserdeen sits down with Kate McAfoose, President of Chang Robotics and Co-Founder of Curabotics, to explore the future of AI, robotics, workforce automation, and human-centered leadership. Drawing from more than 15 years of experience in engineering, robotics, and business leadership, Kate shares how organizations are using automation to address workforce shortages, improve workplace safety, and create opportunities for employees to develop new skills. From manufacturing facilities to hospitals, Kate explains how robotics can support employees, reduce repetitive tasks, and allow professionals to focus on the work that matters most. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * AI and the Future of Work: How robotics and automation are changing industries and why technology doesn’t always have to mean replacing people. * Solving Workforce Challenges: How businesses can use automation to address labor shortages, improve productivity, and create opportunities for employee development. * Robotics in Healthcare: How automated delivery systems can reduce nurses’ administrative and logistical workloads, helping them spend more time caring for patients. * Implementing AI Responsibly: Why cybersecurity, data protection, and clear organizational policies are essential when introducing new technologies. * Leading Through Innovation: How business leaders can stay informed about emerging technologies by building knowledgeable teams and encouraging cross-functional collaboration. * The Future of Human Skills: Why emotional intelligence, communication, adaptability, and leadership will become increasingly important as AI continues to evolve. Kate also shares her entrepreneurial journey, the values that guide her leadership, and why accountability, authenticity, and a commitment to helping others remain central to her work. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, business owner, HR professional, or leader navigating digital transformation, this conversation offers practical insights into balancing technological innovation with human potential. About the Guest Kate McAfoose is the President of Chang Robotics and Co-Founder of Curabotics, a healthcare technology company focused on addressing workforce challenges through robotics and automation. With over 15 years of experience in engineering, automation, and robotics, Kate has led initiatives involving autonomous robotic systems, manufacturing innovation, and healthcare automation designed to improve operational efficiency and support employees. Her work focuses on developing practical, workforce-centered technology solutions that help organizations operate more effectively while creating meaningful opportunities for people. Connect With Kate McAfoose: Website: https://www.curabotics.com/katemcafoose LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/services/page/0a8022309a3028b27a/ Ready to strengthen your leadership and prepare your organization for the future of work? SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CALL: https://www.riseupforyou.com/book-a-call/ LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mkkOi2xAi1XchyMRqa8WB EXPLORE OUR MEMBERSHIP: https://www.riseupforyou.com/membership #ArtificialIntelligence #Robotics #FutureOfWork #Leadership #Automation #WorkforceDevelopment #HumanCenteredLeadership #KateMcAfoose #RiseUpForYou SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CALL HERE: https://www.riseupforyou.com/book-a-call/ PODCAST 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/0mkkOi2xAi1XchyMRqa8WB MEMBERSHIP 👉 https://www.riseupforyou.com/membership