31 - Navigating the Gray: Engineering, Soft Skills, and Business Success

Computers may be binary, only operating in ones and zeros, but humans must navigate the gray.   Get ready for an entertaining exploration of business success that transcends the conventional black-and-white mindset. Join us as we dive into Mark Herschberg's journey from MIT engineering to mastering the art of soft skills, exploring how his insights redefine the way we approach leadership, education, and the ever-changing landscape of AI.In this episode, host Catryn Becker interviews Mark Herschberg – a trailblazing MIT engineer who defied norms to excel not only in technology but also in the art of mastering soft skills. From his humble beginnings as an '80s nerd immersed in chess, Star Trek, and math, Mark's transition from engineering to teaching marked the dawn of a new perspective, challenging the very essence of traditional education.Discover how Mark Herschberg's experiences reveal the crucial gaps that exist between textbook knowledge and real-world complexities. As he shares insights from his groundbreaking book, 'The Career Toolkit,' you'll uncover how the evolving landscape of education is set to reshape the way we prepare for modern careers. Journey with us through the realms of AI's impact on society, the power of peer-to-peer learning, and innovative tools like Brain Bump that promise to revolutionize knowledge retention. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a transformative experience that empowers you to embrace the nuanced hues of success in the ever-evolving world of business.About Mark A. HerschbergFrom tracking criminals and terrorists on the dark web to creating marketplaces and new authentication systems, Mark has spent his career launching and developing new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s and in academia. He helped to start the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, dubbed MIT’s “career success accelerator,” where he teaches annually. At MIT, he received a B.S. in physics, a B.S. in electrical engineering & computer science, and a M.Eng. in electrical engineering & computer science, focusing on cryptography. At Harvard Business School, Mark helped create a platform used to teach finance at prominent business schools. He also works with many non-profits, current serving on the board of Plant a Million Corals. He was one of the top-ranked ballroom dancers in the country and now lives in New York City, where he is known for his social gatherings, including his annual Halloween party, as well as his diverse cufflink collection.—Contact Catryn Becker: Work with CatrynLinkedInFacebookQPYouTubeInstagramEmailContact Mark A. Herschberg: Brain Bump AppFacebookLinkedInInstagramTwitter