Mastering AI Collaboration AI Guide Book: A comprehensive playbook designed to help leaders develop Conversational Intelligence for collaborating effectively with AI. Including frameworks, real-world prompt evolution examples, and step-by-step instructions for transforming basic AI prompts into strategic, emotionally intelligent dialogues. Guide Book SuperHuman AI Newsletter: Get the latest AI news, learn must-know AI tools, and keep up with tech news in just 3 minutes a day. Join 1 million+ readers growing their skillsets with this newsletter. SuperHuman AI Newsletter Corcast Episode: Your personal guide to Conversational Intelligence with AI

EPIC Library - Technical Orientation and Lunch with a Leader Recordings EPIC Library - Technical Orientation and Lunch with a Leader Recordings EPIC Library - Technical Orientation and Lunch with a Leader Recordings EPIC Library - Technical Orientation and Lunch with a Leader Recordings Technical Orientation Program Overview What to Expect Calendar Invites Who to Contact Structure and Format Lunch with Ryan Hollister Vice President Construction Services The Haskell Company July 30, 2025 Lunch with Denise Muth Senior Project Director The Haskell Company August 27, 2025 Lunch with Mandy Brawley VP of Economic Development The Haskell Company September 24, 2025 Lunch with Shannon Koeninger VP of Civil Infrastructure Design The Haskell Company October 22, 2025

Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. As part of your VAFCC Annual Conference registration, you have complimentary access to the AI Confidence Snapshot - a quick, 7-minute reflection designed to help you see where you are with AI and how to lead smarter with it. Click HERE to Take Your Complimentary AI Confidence Snapshot Why Take the Snapshot? Leaders everywhere — including nonprofits — are being asked to do more with less. AI is rewriting how we plan, communicate, and lead. This quick snapshot helps you: Gauge your readiness and confidence with AI. Spot fast wins to save time and sharpen communication. Learn simple, safe ways to use tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Turn what you learn at the conference into real impact back home. About This Collaboration About This Collaboration About This Collaboration About This Collaboration The AI Confidence Snapshot was developed through a partnership between VAFCC and Cortex Leadership Consulting, a national firm specializing in leadership research, coaching, and applied AI for organizations. Together, we're helping Virginia's nonprofit leaders turn learning into lasting impact - one insight at a time. This complimentary assessment is available only to registered VFACC Annual Conference attendees. All data collected is used solely to personalize your experience and provide aggregate insights that help VFACC design future programs that serve you better. Your data of information will not be sold or provided for any other purposes. scorecard

AI Traveler Three-Part Diagnostics AI Traveler Three-Part Diagnostics AI Traveler Three-Part Diagnostics AI Traveler Three-Part Diagnostics Discover how your people navigate the future of work with AI. Discover how your people navigate the future of work with AI. Discover how your people navigate the future of work with AI. Discover how your people navigate the future of work with AI. A Cortex-Exclusive Assessment Trio designed to unlock how you think, lead, and grow with AI — no matter your role. What is the AI Traveler Series Three-Part Diagnostic? What is the AI Traveler Series Three-Part Diagnostic? What is the AI Traveler Series Three-Part Diagnostic? What is the AI Traveler Series Three-Part Diagnostic? The AI Traveler Assessment Series is a three-part diagnostic (for Leaders, Managers, and Team Members) that helps organizations understand how their people are currently engaging with AI. It goes beyond hype and fear to capture mindsets, habits, and growth opportunities across every level of the company. These aren’t tests — they’re mirrors and maps. The assessments give individuals a clear picture of where they stand and provide organizations with insights into: Who are the natural AI implementors? Those ready to put AI into practice for workflows, projects, and operational efficiencies. Who are the future AI operators? Those who think strategically, integrate systems, and shape how AI drives decisions across the business. Where are the skeptics, experimenters, and early adopters? The Traveler types make it easy to spot who needs more support, who can model best practices, and where cultural conversations about AI should begin. Together, these insights guide organizations to develop AI maturity across the workforce — building capacity, confidence, and clarity in a rapidly shifting landscape. Contact Us! Ready to discover your companies AI readiness across departments? Take the AI Traveler Assessment for Leaders below! Ready to discover your companies AI readiness across departments? Take the AI Traveler Assessment for Leaders below! Ready to discover your companies AI readiness across departments? Take the AI Traveler Assessment for Leaders below! Ready to discover your companies AI readiness across departments? Take the AI Traveler Assessment for Leaders below! AI Traveler for Leaders How Organizations are Using the AI Traveler Series How Organizations are Using the AI Traveler Series How Organizations are Using the AI Traveler Series How Organizations are Using the AI Traveler Series Organizations are using the AI Traveler Assessments to: Map out AI readiness across departments. Identify coaches and champions who can lead AI adoption. Design targeted training and development paths for different Traveler types. Support change management efforts by addressing resistance and building curiosity. Spark team discussions about AI ethics, workflows, and opportunities. These assessments don’t label people — they create a common language and forward-looking pathway for growth. Cortex AI Program: What's Next After the AI Traveler Cortex AI Program: What's Next After the AI Traveler Cortex AI Program: What's Next After the AI Traveler Cortex AI Program: What's Next After the AI Traveler The AI Traveler Assessments are just the start. Cortex Offers a suite of programs that help leaders and teams turn insight into impact. AI Strategic Leader Program For executives and senior leaders ready to position themselves and their organizations, at the forefront of AI-driven strategy. AI Essentials Launch Pad A practical, confidence-building program designed to help AI beginners take their first steps safely, effectively, and with clarity. (Email us for additional information) New Playbook for Teamwork Time Mastery 2.0 Executive Accelrator An applied learning program that integrates AI insights with modern leadership practices to transform team collaboration, communication, and performance. Blend time optimization strategies with AI-powered tools to free you from burnout and help you focus on what matters most. Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions What is the AI Traveler assessment all about? The AI Traveler assessment is a self-reflection tool that helps you understand your current relationship with artificial intelligence (AI) in your work. It’s not a test, and there are no wrong answers. It’s designed to show how you're thinking about, using, or avoiding AI—so you can grow from where you are, not where someone else thinks you should be. Your results offer: a n AI Traveler profile, coaching-style reflection questions, skill-building challenges, and suggested AI prompts to try immediately. What does the assessment measure? The assessment evaluates how you engage with AI across four dimensions: Awareness – Do you see the relevance of AI for your work? Willingness – Are you open to experimenting and learning? Capacity – Do you have the tools, time, and support to succeed? Application – Are you already using AI in meaningful ways? Each profile reflects a unique combination of these dimensions. What happens if I don’t engage with AI at all? Here’s the thing: it’s not just about using AI. It’s about understanding how it’s changing your industry, your role, and your team’s expectations. Leaders who ignore AI risk: Falling behind in strategic conversations, Missing opportunities to improve clarity, speed, and creativity, Being seen as reactive instead of forward-thinking. And if you’re only using AI for basic tasks (emails, lists), you might be limiting its potential to help you coach better, think deeper, and lead smarter. How does the assessment support personal growth? It’s built to meet you where you are. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or confident with AI, your type offers: A mirror for your habits, A push toward growth, A way to make AI more human and helpful. And it’s backed by Cortex’s leadership philosophy: practical tools, deep reflection, and courageous clarity. How does it support team or organizational growth? AI Traveler profiles are conversation starters. They create a shared language across teams and roles so people can: Normalize learning together, Coach each other forward, Build trust in a changing workplace. The real power isn’t just in the score. It’s in what you do with it together. Your Next Move Your Next Move Your Next Move Your Next Move Whether you're just beginning the AI Conversation or ready to scale adoption across your company, the AI Traveler Assessments show you where you are - and our programs guide you on where to go next. to learn how we can support your leaders, managers, and teams with the right AI Program. Contact Us! Contact Us! First name* Last name* Email* Position* Company name* I am interested in acquiring additional information about the... (choose all that apply)* AI Traveler Three-Part Diagnostics AI Strategic Leader Program AI Essentials Launch Pad for AI Rookies Time Mastery 2.0 Executive Accelerator 1:1 Coaching Time Mastery 2.0 Executive Accelerator for my Team The New Playbook of Teamwork 1:1 Coaching The New Playbook of Teamwork for my Team Getting Lynda McNutt Foster as a KeyNote Speaker Submit

Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type A Cortex-Exclusive Assessment Trio designed to unlock how you think, lead, and grow with AI — no matter your role. What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? In a world where AI is reshaping how we work, the AI Traveler Assessment is your compass. Whether you're a team member, manager, or senior leader, this simple self-assessment reveals how you're currently engaging with AI—your mindset, your habits, and your growth edge. It’s not a test. It’s a reflection. And it gives you a custom profile designed to help you adapt faster, lead smarter, and navigate the future with clarity. Your AI Traveler type highlights where you are now — and offers practical next steps to grow your impact with the help of tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Choose the version of the assessment that best fits your role. It only takes about 5–7 minutes to complete, and your scorecard will be emailed to you automatically. If you're not sure which to pick, go with the one that aligns closest to your day-to-day responsibilities. AI Traveler for Team Members AI Traveler for Managers AI Traveler for Leaders What happens after you submit your assessment? You'll receive an AI Traveler Scorecard based on your responses - sent directly to your email. This scorecard includes a detailed profile of your AI mindset, coaching questions, and growth strategies. Most people finish the assessment in under 7 minutes. Didn't get your scorecard? Check your spam/Junk folder or email us directly at info@cortexleadership.com Having trouble choosing or accessing your assessment? No problem. Contact your lead or contact us and we'll help guide you to the right fit. Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions What is the AI Traveler assessment all about? The AI Traveler assessment is a self-reflection tool that helps you understand your current relationship with artificial intelligence (AI) in your work. It’s not a test, and there are no wrong answers. It’s designed to show how you're thinking about, using, or avoiding AI—so you can grow from where you are, not where someone else thinks you should be. Your results offer: a n AI Traveler profile, coaching-style reflection questions, skill-building challenges, and suggested AI prompts to try immediately. What does the assessment measure? The assessment evaluates how you engage with AI across four dimensions: Awareness – Do you see the relevance of AI for your work? Willingness – Are you open to experimenting and learning? Capacity – Do you have the tools, time, and support to succeed? Application – Are you already using AI in meaningful ways? Each profile reflects a unique combination of these dimensions. I took the assessment but don’t feel like the type I scored as. Did it get it wrong? Not at all. That feeling usually means you're on the edge of a transition—you’re evolving. Your score reflects your current patterns, not your potential. The Traveler Type is a mirror, not a label. Use it as a starting point for conversation and growth, not a definition of your identity. Will my AI Traveler type change over time? Yes—and that’s the goal. As you try new things, build confidence, and reflect on how AI fits into your workflow, your type may shift. Retaking the assessment every few months is a great way to measure progress and spark fresh insight. What should I do after I get my type? Every scorecard includes: Reflection questions to guide journaling or coaching, Suggestions for small, safe AI experiments, Prompts you can use in ChatGPT or Copilot today. You can also: Share your type with a peer, team, or leader, Upload your profile to an LLM and ask for a 90-day growth plan, Talk to your Cortex contact about next steps Can I be more than one type? Absolutely. Most people show traits from multiple types. Your profile is about what’s most dominant right now, not an all-or-nothing label. What happens if I don’t engage with AI at all? Here’s the thing: it’s not just about using AI. It’s about understanding how it’s changing your industry, your role, and your team’s expectations. Leaders who ignore AI risk: Falling behind in strategic conversations, Missing opportunities to improve clarity, speed, and creativity, Being seen as reactive instead of forward-thinking. And if you’re only using AI for basic tasks (emails, lists), you might be limiting its potential to help you coach better, think deeper, and lead smarter. How does the assessment support personal growth? It’s built to meet you where you are. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or confident with AI, your type offers: A mirror for your habits, A push toward growth, A way to make AI more human and helpful. And it’s backed by Cortex’s leadership philosophy: practical tools, deep reflection, and courageous clarity. How does it support team or organizational growth? AI Traveler profiles are conversation starters. They create a shared language across teams and roles so people can: Normalize learning together, Coach each other forward, Build trust in a changing workplace. The real power isn’t just in the score. It’s in what you do with it together.

2.0 in the age of AI: The High-Potential Leader's Fast Track to Self-Mastery The path to effective leadership is no longer a slow climb—it's a sprint. Today's rising managers, supervisors, and high-potential employees, and existing leaders must understand themselves, raise their emotional intelligence, and increase their discernment faster than ever to succeed in an AI-accelerated environment. EPIC 2.0 in the Age of AI program transforms generic training into precision talent development. Key Program Deliverables This program is specifically designed to provide your organization with an immediate return on investment by focusing time and energy on high-leverage skills: Mastery of Self-Awareness Scientifically validated assessments (DISC, 12 Driving Forces, AI Traveler, and others) ensure customized materials, fast-tracking self-awareness for intentional leadership. Time Mastery 2.0 with AI Adopt the Time Mastery 2.0 framework for your exact role to optimize schedules, focus on high-value outcomes, and leverage AI for task delegation and efficiency. Trust as the Engine of Change Learn practical techniques for building and maintaining trust across three levels of Conversational Intelligence, reducing internal and organizational drama. Strategic Communication and Problem Solving Gain immediate practical communication and application skills using the updated VIPEi Framework (Vision, Ideation, Planning, Execution, Iteration) to restore team adaptability and accelerate insights and use it for your, specific, problem or project. Learning How to Learn in the Age of AI Develop a co-thinking mindset, using AI not just for speed, but for clarity and strategic partnership, mastering high-impact prompts. Utilize tools and frameworks to understand and communicate with others more effectively and collaborate with better outcomes. Self-Mastery Leadership Challenge chosen by each participant that ensures application of the EPIC 2.0 learning experiences. Participation during sessions in 3-4 person Thinking Pods to practice what they are learning and ways to apply it immediately. EPIC 2.0 Why This Program, Why Now The path to effective leadership is no longer a slow climb—it's a sprint. Today's rising managers, supervisors, and high-potential employees, and existing leaders must understand themselves, raise their emotional intelligence, and increase their discernment faster than ever to succeed in an AI-accelerated environment. EPIC 2.0 Age of AI program transforms generic training into precision talent development. Leaders are currently wrestling with the twin burdens of low-value interactions and "work-slop" (ineffective work product resulting from poor AI integration and unclear self-management skills) and "drama" (resulting from a lack of self-awareness and self-regulation). Cortex, which is now training hundreds of leaders in both human-centered skills and AI essentials, designed EPIC 2.0 to solve this gap. EPIC 2.0 is a dynamic 2-day experience that transforms leaders from overwhelmed responders to more agile Co-Creators who seamlessly integrate human judgment with AI-enabled insights. Contact Us! Read More What you can't get anywhere else 1. High-Performance Acceleration: Experience a two-day transformation that fast-tracks self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and strategic execution—skills leaders usually take years to master. 2. Human + AI Integration: EPIC 2.0 bridges leadership science and AI capability, showing leaders exactly how to reduce “work-slop,” eliminate drama, and lead with clarity in an AI-driven world. 3. Exclusive Leadership Frameworks: Access the Time Mastery 2.0 system, the VIPEi Strategic Problem-Solving Model, and the AI Traveler Assessment—frameworks used by hundreds of high-performing leaders to optimize their teams and decision-making. Frequently Asked Questions What is the primary purpose of the EPIC 2.0 program? EPIC 2.0 is a dynamic 2-day experience designed to transform leaders from overwhelmed responders into more agile Co-Creators who seamlessly integrate human judgment with AI-enabled insights. The program aims to transform generic training into precision talent development. Who is the target audience for the EPIC 2.0 program? The program is designed for rising managers, supervisors, high-potential employees, and existing leaders. What specific challenges does EPIC 2.0 address? The program is designed to solve the gap resulting from leaders dealing with the "twin burdens" of low-value interactions and "work-slop" (ineffective work product due to unclear self-management skills and poor AI integration). It also addresses "drama" that results from a lack of self-awareness and self-regulation. Key Deliverables and Content What are the key deliverables of the program? The program focuses time and energy on high-leverage skills to provide an immediate return on investment (ROI). Key deliverables include: Mastery of Self-Awareness using scientifically validated assessments. Time Mastery 2.0 with AI to optimize schedules, focus on high-value outcomes, and leverage AI for task delegation and efficiency. Developing Trust as the Engine of Change by learning practical techniques for building and maintaining trust across three levels of Conversational Intelligence. Gaining skills in Strategic Communication and Problem Solving using the updated VIPEi Framework (Vision, Ideation, Planning, Execution, Iteration). Learning How to Learn in the Age of AI, including developing a co-thinking mindset and mastering high-impact prompts for strategic partnership. What frameworks and assessments are utilized in the program? Scientifically validated assessments are used to ensure customized materials, including DISC, 12 Driving Forces, and AI Traveler. The program also teaches the Time Mastery 2.0 framework and the VIPEi Framework. How is the learning applied and practiced? Application is ensured through a Self-Mastery Leadership Challenge chosen by each participant. Participants also engage in 3-4 person Thinking Pods during sessions to practice what they are learning and identify ways to apply it immediately. Logistics and Investment What is the format and duration of EPIC 2.0? The program is a dynamic 2-day experience delivered through in-person, live instruction. What is the cohort size? The cohort size is limited to 18 spaces to ensure maximum personalization and high-touch facilitation. When does the program start? Day 1 begins on December 4, 2025. The cohort will collectively pick the best date for Day 2. What are the associated investment costs? As a Special Partnership Offering, the investment varies by membership status: SRCC Member Rate: $1,100 per participant. SRCC Member Rate (2+ participants from the same organization): $950 per participant. Non-Member Rate: $1,250 per participant. Who are the partners offering this program? This Special Partnership Offering is provided by the Salem-Roanoke Chamber of Commerce, Cortex Leadership Consulting, and Metis. Contact Us! First Name* Last Name* Email* Company* Position* I am interested in the following (select one or more). Additional Information Reserving an EPIC 2.0 seat for myself Sending one of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Sending two of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Sending three or more of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Submit

Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Mastering Healthy Conflict for Stronger Working Relationships Part 1 Effective teams require the ability to navigate conflict with confidence and clarity. Your upcoming Culture Kit Session will provide you with the path to stronger working relationships by utilizing the 10 Techniques of Healthy Conflict . Step 1: Take the Cortex Conflict Mastery Assessment Assessment Step 2: Review the Cortex Conflict Mastery Scorecard Scorecard Step 3: Review, print, and bring the handout with you to your upcoming Culture Kit Session Handout Step 4: Listen to the Cortex Mastering Healthy Conflict - The 10 Techniques of Healthy Conflict Corcast Episode

Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Cortex Culture Kit Welcome to Phases 1-3! Welcome to the Cortex Stressed for Success Culture Kit where you will learn how to deal with stressful situations, what triggers you, and how to have more pleasant experiences. More About Stressed for Success What You Will Learn The causes and origin of stress How your brain reacts to stress and anxiety The different types of anxiety that we all experience How stress can affect your relationships at work and create conflict leading to lack of trust in the environment Using the Exercises Deal with stressful situations with more calm and ease Fall asleep easier Things that used to trigger anxious responses in you may not effect you anymore Quickly remember and experience pleasant experiences that can lead to a feeling of more control and satisfaction How It Works Simply watch each Video in Phase 1 before your first Culture Group Session Print out Phase 1 Worksheet and bring it with you to your Group Session Once watching the modules and having your first Group Session, move on to Phase 2! Rinse & Repeat We recommend that you space your learning out every two days to give you time to digest and practice the exercises provided. If you require any assistance or have any questions, feel free to email the Cortex Team at info@cortexleadership.com to speak directly with a Cortex Team Member. Phase 1 What is Stress and Anxiety? Print out this worksheet and bring it with you to your Group Session for Phase 1- Stressed for Success Culture Kit! 10 Rules of Inclusion Phase 1 Worksheet Step One: Introduction Step Two: Interview Step Three: Lesson Step Four: Exercise Phase 2 Recognizing Amygdala Anxiety Print out this worksheet and bring it with you to your Group Session for Phase 2- Stressed for Success Culture Kit! Phase 2 Worksheet 10 Rules of Inclusion Step One: Introduction Step Two: Interview Step Three: Lesson Step Four: Exercise Phase 3 Amygdala Triggers and Reactions Print out this worksheet and bring it with you to your Group Session for Phase 3- Stressed for Success Culture Kit! 10 Rules of Inclusion Phase 3 Worksheet Step One: Interview Step Two: Lesson Step Three: Exercise 1 Step Four: Exercise 2

Cortex's Leadership Traits for the 21st Century The Six Main Leadership Traits for the 21st Century - McKinsey & Company Research Cortex Leadership Traits for the 21st Century Assessment: Assessment Cortex Leadership Traits for the 21st Century Scorecard Scorecard 21st Century Leadership Traits - McKinsey & Company Research Article Article 21st Century Leadership Traits - McKinsey & Company Deep Dive Corecast Episode:

De-Escalation & Conflict Mastery Mastering Conflict for Stronger Leadership These resources were created to address your teams Conflict Mastery by Lynda McNutt Foster Effective leadership requires the ability to navigate conflict with confidence and clarity. Your upcoming Conflict Mastery Workshop provides your leadership team with the tools to assess their conflict tolerance. Step 1: Read the Agenda - Gain an overview of the key themes and objectives covered in the workshop to set the foundation for learning. Agenda Step 2: Take the Cortex Conflict Mastery Assessment Assessment Step 3: Read the Cortex Conflict Mastery Scorecard Scorecard Step 4: Read the Cortex Conflict Mastery De-Escalation Article Article Step 5: Listen to the Cortex Conflict Mastery Prep Corecast Episode:

< Back Time Metabolism Aligning Your Energy with Your Most Important Work How Time Metabolism Can Change the Way You Work Most leaders plan their time - but not their energy. If you've ever felt drained during important meetings or too exhausted to focus in the afternoon, you're experiencing a mismatch between your schedule and your energy levels. This is where Time Metabolism comes in. What is Time Metabolism? Your body and mind don't operate at the same intensity all day. Energy levels naturally rise and fall, and if you don't schedule tasks accordingly, you're constantly working against yourself. How to Optimize Your Time Metabolism: Track your peak energy hours. When do you feel most alert and engaged? Schedule your highest-priority work during those hours. Save routine tasks for your low-energy times. Responding to emails or data entry shouldn't take up your best focus hours. Use movement & breaks to rest energy. Small Adjustments - like stepping away from screens or getting outside - help recharge your focus. Want to work smarter instead of harder? Watch this 1-minute breakdown clip. [insert clip] Previous Next

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