As artificial intelligence and automation reshape industries, leadership expert Rocky Romanella has released a new four-part series titled "The Mentor: Believing in People Before They Believe in Themselves." The series, available starting September 15, 2026, addresses the critical need for leaders to uphold timeless values of belief, mentorship, coachability, and legacy amid rapid technological change.
Romanella, a bestselling author and former UPS executive, argues that while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replicate the core responsibilities of leadership. "In the age of AI, leaders must remember that belief, trust, and character are still the foundation of every great organization," Romanella said. "Technology may change how we work, but it will never replace the responsibility leaders have to lift others, mentor with purpose, and leave things a little better than they found them."
The series draws on Romanella's decades of experience at UPS and The UPS Store Franchise Network, as well as lessons from legendary coach John Wooden. It covers topics such as belief as a leadership responsibility, mentorship through Wooden's principles, the UPS promotion-from-within culture, coachability as a bridge between potential and progress, gratitude as an anchor, and the "One Word" identity exercise.
Romanella's emphasis on mentorship and legacy is particularly relevant as organizations grapple with the impact of AI on workplace dynamics. By highlighting the enduring importance of human connection and trust, the series offers a counterbalance to the tech-centric narrative dominating many boardrooms. "If you choose to lead, you must choose to be an honest and trusted leader," Romanella added. "Your vision, mission, and values only matter if people trust you enough to follow. In a world of constant change, trustworthiness is your highest honor — and your lasting legacy."
Readers can access Romanella's conversation with Coach Wooden at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/category/leadership-training/. The full series will be available at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/category/newsletters/.
In addition to the series, Romanella continues to produce resources for leaders, including his book "Tighten The Lug Nuts: The Principles Of Balanced Leadership," which achieved bestseller status in Business Management and Business Leadership. He also hosts "The Leadership Library Podcast," now in its ninth season, with new episodes every Tuesday. The podcast is available at https://tightenthelugnuts.com/ and https://www.buzzsprout.com/1484407.
For more information on Romanella's leadership resources, visit https://3sixtymanagementservices.com. His Forbes contributions are available at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/forbes-business-council/.
