The consulting world is living through a transformation that feels as big as the leap from typewriters to touchscreens. In this episode, Dean McMann and Anthony Paluska sit down with Richard Henderson, a global Professional Services leader whose path runs from cello performance to SaaS strategy, to talk about what this AI-driven era really means for consulting.

What begins as a conversation about artificial intelligence quickly turns into something much deeper. The group explores what it means to own your destiny as a professional in a world where machines are learning faster than ever. Richard challenges the idea that AI will simply replace human work and argues that the real competitive edge now lies in the skills that are hardest to automate: curiosity, empathy, storytelling, trust, and creativity.

From there, things get lively. The trio dives into Richard’s favorite metaphor, basketball, and explores what it would look like if consulting had its own 24-second shot clock, a film room for reviewing performance, and even a combine to test the next generation of consultants. The parallels between sports, leadership, and consulting performance are uncanny and at times hilariously accurate.

Throughout the discussion, one theme keeps resurfacing: accountability. Whether you are leading a global PS organization or just getting started in your consulting career, Richard makes a compelling case for treating your own development with the same rigor athletes bring to their craft.

Equal parts energizing and thought-provoking, this episode blends AI strategy, talent development, and practical wisdom into one fast-moving conversation. If you have ever wondered how to stay relevant when technology keeps evolving or what basketball can teach you about being a great consultant, this one is worth every minute.