For the first time in history, the most powerful artificial intelligence (AI) works through language itself: The same medium humans use to think and communicate. Dr Michael G. Kollo reveals why this makes AI uniquely accessible to everyone, and how to harness this linguistic revolution for work and life.
This book thoughtfully explores why language-based AI represents something fundamentally different from previous automation, examining both imagined fears and genuine possibilities for workforce transformation. It explains why institutional change takes time despite impressive capabilities, how AI systems are quietly becoming our digital confidants, and why we may eventually come to resent the very technologies we initially embrace. These concepts are explained with care through real-world examples and practical frameworks, whilst companion fictional stories help different audiences understand the emotional reality of technological change. From a software developer orchestrating AI agents to a postal worker finding unexpected digital companionship, these narratives illuminate what it actually feels like to live through this transformation. The book addresses both the remarkable potential of conversational AI and its capacity for subtle manipulation, providing readers with the understanding needed to engage thoughtfully with systems that speak our language.
Future-Ready with Generative AI: Skills, Mindsets, and Stories in the Age of AI transforms AI from intimidating complexity into intuitive collaboration. Because these systems work through language, everyone can learn to use them effectively. Readers wil gain practical wisdom for leveraging conversational AI while preserving human creativity, relationships, and independent thinking.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: When Machines Learnt Language. Story 1.1 The Distance between Us. Chapter 2: Understanding and Working with Language Models. Story 2.1 The Glass Room. Chapter 3: AI Automation and the Workforce: Beyond Replacement. Story 3.1 Creating with AI. Chapter 4: Why Change Takes Time. Story 4.2 The Debrief. Chapter 5: Working with AI. Story 5.1 Co-Creating with Intelligent Agents. Chapter 6: The Human Connection with AI. Story 6.1 Dance with Me. Chapter 7: How We May Come to Hate Our AIs. Story 7.1 The Intelligent Caretaker. Chapter 8: What Is Knowable and What Is Ahead. Story 8.1 The Intelligence Salesman. Epilogue: Your Role.
About the Author :
Dr Michael Kollo, PhD (LSE), has spent more than twenty years at the forefront of quantitative finance and applied artificial intelligence, distilling complex ideas into clear, actionable insights for professionals and the public alike. Michael is a frequent keynote speaker at global forums, from TEDx to leading financial and AI conferences globally, and is known for his engaging storytelling and narratives.
Review :
“Dr Kollo's book is a masterful and engaging guide to the potential of AI. He distills complex concepts with remarkable clarity, making this a vital read for anyone—from corporate boards to curious minds—looking to understand the transformative power of AI in our future.” --John Cosnomos, Head of Quantitative Research, Macquarie Bank
"AI is a profound technology change but the real challenge ahead is how we individually and collectively adapt to take advantage. We need to understand not just the technology but the human response. Mike is a master at framing how this technology works in non-technical metaphors, but also outlining and imagining how individuals, organisations and society will adapt to this technology. This book is an elegant mix of simple technical explanations, insightful views on our human responses and artful imaging of both positive and negative futures. I would strongly recommend this book for anyone seeking to get ahead of the AI change wave." --Tim Hogarth, Chief Technology Officer, ANZ Bank
“A balanced, jargon-free guide to AI, blending understandable facts with memorable stories.”--Gerard Florian, Senior Executive (former CIO, CTO, CMO)
“The biggest technological shift of our lifetimes is here. This timely and compelling read, with its unique literary style, shows us why we must stay curious, engage with AI, and explore the art of the possible.” --Graeme Mather, Partner at Antler Venture Capital
“Practical, human, hopeful. A clear and inspiring guide to thriving in the age of AI.” --Amer Afiouni, Chief Strategy Officer at Jadwa Investment
