In Episode 9 of the Digital Mythology Podcast, Declan Goodman is joined by Vito Forte to explore the growing hype surrounding artificial intelligence, the rise of AI-first organizations, and why wisdom and critical thinking still matter in technology leadership.

Using the myths of Icarus, King Solomon, and the Court Jester, this conversation examines:

• AI hype cycles and exaggerated promises
• the illusion of AI companionship
• ageism and experience in tech
• why business strategy should lead technology adoption
• customer-first thinking in digital transformation
• the danger of losing critical thinking in an AI-driven world

Vito shares insights from more than four decades in technology, reflecting on previous hype cycles and explaining why organizations must balance innovation with judgment, trust, and human understanding.

This episode is a thoughtful discussion for leaders, technologists, strategists, and anyone trying to make sense of the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Guest: Vito Forte
Host: Declan Goodman

Digital Mythology explores technology, leadership, storytelling, and the human side of digital transformation.

The Digital Mythology Podcast is here to help you bridge the gap between complex tech and human understanding, transforming your digital efforts into a narrative that truly resonates. As you embark on your digital transformation journey, remember that success isn't just about the tools or technology—it's about how well you can tell your story. By leveraging the timeless power of mythology, storytelling, and emotional connection, you can engage stakeholders, win buy-in, and inspire action.

Join host Declan Goodman as he guides you through this journey, one story at a time.

In this episode of the Digital Mythology Podcast, Declan Goodman speaks with Grant Ecker about the evolving role of enterprise architecture in the age of AI - and why storytelling is becoming a critical leadership skill.

We explore:

• Navigating AI hype vs real value
• The future role of architects
• Decision-making in complex environments
• Why storytelling builds trust in transformation

Key Moments:

• AI hype vs reality
• Architecting for AI
• The evolving role of enterprise architects
• Storytelling as a leadership tool
• Practical steps for leaders

Watch the full episode here:

https://youtu.be/CWbpVUWAw00

Connect with Declan here:

declangoodman | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree

Mythology isn’t about fairy tales - it’s about the stories behind human transformation. Digital transformation is no different - it’s about people, not systems.

The Digital Mythology Podcast is here to help you bridge the gap between complex tech and human understanding, transforming your digital efforts into a narrative that truly resonates. As you embark on your digital transformation journey, remember that success isn't just about the tools or technology—it's about how well you can tell your story. By leveraging the timeless power of mythology, storytelling, and emotional connection, you can engage stakeholders, win buy-in, and inspire action.

Join host Declan Goodman as he guides you through this journey, one story at a time.

In this episode of the Digital Mythology Podcast, I speak with Ava Battles, CEO of MS Ireland, about leadership, compassion, and how digital transformation can support people living with multiple sclerosis.

Using the Digital Mythology framework, we explore three myths that help explain how organisations create real change.

Xin – Leading with Heart and Mind
We begin with the story of Brigid’s Cloak of Compassion. In Irish legend, Brigid spreads her cloak not to conquer land, but to create sanctuary. It’s a powerful metaphor for leadership rooted in empathy and care.

In the MS community, every statistic represents a person. Behind every number is a real human story.

Metaphor – Making the Invisible Visible
We explore the parable of The Blind Men and the Elephant. Each person experiences only one part of the elephant and mistakes it for the whole.

Multiple sclerosis can be similar. No two people experience MS the same way, which is why empathy, collaboration, and understanding are essential.

Catalyst – Empowering a Community
Finally, we discuss the story of the Bundle of Sticks. A single stick breaks easily, but a bundle is strong.

This myth reflects the strength of communities like MS Ireland, where people come together through advocacy, support, and shared experience.

We also discuss how digital initiatives such as online physiotherapy programmes, The May 50K challenge, and World MS Day are helping connect and empower the MS community across Ireland.

About the Digital Mythology Podcast

The Digital Mythology Podcast explores how ancient myths and storytelling can help leaders make sense of modern challenges like digital transformation, leadership, and organisational change.

Mythology isn’t about fairy tales – it’s about the stories behind human transformation. Digital transformation is no different – it’s about people, not systems.

Connect and follow the host Declan Goodman at the link below:

declangoodman | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree

The Digital Mythology Podcast is here to help you bridge the gap between complex tech and human understanding, transforming your digital efforts into a narrative that truly resonates. As you embark on your digital transformation journey, remember that success isn't just about the tools or technology—it's about how well you can tell your story. By leveraging the timeless power of mythology, storytelling, and emotional connection, you can engage stakeholders, win buy-in, and inspire action.

Join host Declan Goodman as he guides you through this journey, one story at a time.