What if the very tools designed to boost our productivity are quietly dulling our creativity? As AI becomes embedded in every aspect of product development, leaders face a paradox: how do we embrace automation without losing the critical thinking and human insight that drive innovation? This episode of Ascendle Unscripted explores that tension—and why the future of work may depend on how we manage it.
Host Michael Cinquino is joined by two sharp minds at the intersection of AI and product leadership: Jason Ling, Director of Digital Strategy at Ascendle, and Christie Mealo, SVP of AI Products at 90NORTH. Together, they unpack the promise and pitfalls of AI in product strategy, from the risks of over-reliance to the rising importance of soft skills and intentional friction.
The New Frontier: AI in Product Strategy
AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a foundational layer in modern product development. As Christie explains, her work centers on building AI-driven tools that shape marketing and communication strategies in healthcare. But with great power comes great responsibility.
Jason emphasizes that AI in product strategy should be about amplifying human thinking, not replacing it. “I want product managers focused on vision, narrative, and negotiation—not writing Jira stories,” he says. The goal is to automate the “paperwork” so teams can focus on what really matters: solving problems creatively and strategically.
The Risk of Over-Reliance
While AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude are powerful, both guests warn against over-reliance. Christie shares how even seasoned professionals can fall into the trap of letting AI do the thinking. “Sometimes I have to force myself to write something out by hand,” she admits. “Otherwise, I start to lose the muscle of critical thinking.”
Jason echoes this concern, noting that AI in product strategy can lead to complacency if not managed carefully. “Efficiency can quickly turn into laziness,” he says. “We need to make sure AI is a tool, not a crutch.”
Introducing Friction to Foster Growth
One of the most compelling ideas from the episode is the concept of intentional friction. In a world obsessed with reducing friction, Christie argues that some friction is necessary for growth. “Friction is your job,” she says. “It forces teams to step back, ask why, and think critically.”
Jason suggests that leaders should challenge teams to justify their outputs, even if AI helped create them. “If you hand me a product requirements doc, I want to know your rationale. Walk me through your thinking.”
Soft Skills Are the New Superpower
As AI takes over more technical tasks, soft skills are becoming the differentiator. Curiosity, communication, and critical thinking are now essential traits for product leaders. “I don’t care how you write your stories,” Jason says. “I care about your rationale, your strategy, your leadership.”
Christie adds that passion and eagerness to learn often outweigh technical skills. “We can teach tools. We can’t teach drive.”
Data Is the Differentiator
In a landscape where anyone can build software, data becomes the true competitive edge. “Your data is your goldmine,” Jason says. “It’s not about building more features, it’s about building smarter.” Christie agrees, noting that companies without a strong data moat are at risk of becoming obsolete.
Key Takeaways
- AI in product strategy should enhance human creativity, not replace it.
- Over-reliance on AI tools can lead to complacency and loss of critical thinking.
- Introducing intentional friction helps teams stay sharp and innovative.
- Soft skills like curiosity and communication are more valuable than ever.
- Proprietary data—not just software—is the key to long-term differentiation.
Looking Ahead: The Human Edge in an AI World
As the episode wraps, both guests agree: the future belongs to those who can blend AI fluency with human insight. Leaders must foster environments where tools empower people, not replace them.
“Outcomes matter more than outputs,” Jason says. “And the best outcomes come from people who ask why.”
Ascendle Is Here to Help
Whether you’re exploring AI in product strategy or building agile teams ready for the future, contact us to learn how we partner with clients to drive innovation.
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