Mapping Power: Navigating Tech and Systems Change

About this episode

Katie talks with Charley Johnson about navigating power and systems change in technology and independent work.

In this episode, Katie talks with Charley Johnson about his leap into independent work through his newsletter, Untangled, and what it takes to build a life and career outside traditional structures. Charley breaks down how power actually moves through technology, why many leaders still misread the systems they operate within, and how imagination—not just strategy—shapes better futures. He shares the blind spots he sees most often in tech and policy, the role community plays in sustaining meaningful change, and how AI fits into the broader landscape of systems transformation. Charley closes with an honest reflection on success—what he’s letting go of, what he’s moving toward, and why metrics alone will never tell the full story. Learn more about Charley’s upcoming workshops: 1) Mapping Your System: How to Navigate Power, People & Change in Uncertain Times and 2) Beyond the Principles: How to Make Responsible AI Real, A 3-Part Intensive for Tech & Society Leaders. Takeaways * Independent work can be both disorienting and deeply energizing. * Power in tech often operates invisibly, yet shapes outcomes everywhere. * Building community is essential for meaningful, sustainable change…

People in this episode

Host: Katie Harbath

Guest: Charley Johnson

Topics covered

• independent work
• technology
• systems change
• community
• AI
• leadership
• success

Keywords

• independent work
• technology
• systems transformation
• community
• AI
• leadership
• success
• metrics
• imagination
• policy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Untangled

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