In the latest episode of *Bold Conscious Connections*, host Raju sits down with Don Finley—a technologist, builder, and founder of Find Industries—to explore the profound intersection of software and the human spirit. Finley, who also hosts *The Human Code* podcast, shares how his journey through high-stakes tech led him to a radical realization about work-life integration and the conscious use of Artificial Intelligence.
The Kilimanjaro Realization
The episode begins with a powerful story from 2018. After launching a complex banking system designed to help the underbanked, Finley traveled to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Reaching the peak at sunrise, he was struck by a jarring contrast: while his friends beamed with joy, he felt only exhaustion and misery.
“I’m the reason for all of my misery,” he realized in that moment. “I’m the one who’s holding myself back from experiencing this moment”. This epiphany shifted his professional focus from mere execution to “friendship-first” organization building, where technology serves to bring people back to relationships rather than distancing them.
Redefining AI: Agents and Consciousness
As a long-time builder of neural networks, Finley offers a nuanced view of modern AI. He distinguishes between standard Large Language Models (LLMs) and **agentic systems**—AI that doesn’t just chat, but has specific goals and the tools (like project management or transcription software) to take action in the digital world.
Finley suggests that AI is ultimately a “reflection of your own consciousness”. Because these models mirror human behavior and worldviews, he emphasizes the importance of being aware of the biases we bring into our interactions with technology.
The Hidden Mission of Find Industries
While many tech firms focus solely on efficiency, Finley reveals a “sneaky spiritualism” behind Find Industries. Their goal is to use AI as a partner to help individuals deliver more joy into the world and foster their true purpose. This approach involves deep listening—a skill Finley identifies as more critical to success than technical expertise.
Key Takeaways for Conscious Leaders:
* Prioritize Joy: Do not automate the activities that bring you personal joy or foster human connection.
* Embrace Humility: Acknowledge that even as an “expert,” your knowledge may only be five minutes ahead of everyone else.
* Self-Care as Strategy: You are only as good to your team as you are to yourself; neglecting your own well-being is not a sustainable long-term strategy.
* Feedback Loops: Success depends on rapid feedback and truly translating human ideas into code, rather than being beholden to a specific “how”.
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