Tara Thurber sat down with innovation leader and connector James Barrood to explore the Top5 Ways Innovators and Leaders Must Adapt to Thrive - from embracing generative AI to building empathetic, flexible teams that can weather disruption and drive change.

James Barrood is a nationally recognized leader in the NYC/NJ tech and innovation scene with 20+ years of advising startups and growth company leaders as well as developing university programs. He heads a 10,000+ global community of entrepreneurs, directs AI‑focused executive education, and previously spent five years as CEO of TechUnited and over a decade running Fairleigh Dickinson University’s top‑ranked entrepreneurship center. A two‑time TEDx speaker, author, and podcast host, James sits on multiple startup and nonprofit boards, including AI for Good Foundation, Future World Alliance, and Princeton’s McCarter Theatre.