In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) has become more critical than ever. Anxiety about an AI-driven future permeates various levels of the workforce, from entry-level staff feeling threatened by automation to executives fearing they may become obsolete. As organizations scramble to ensure their survival amidst technological advancements, leaders like David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass, advocate for the transformative potential of AI in enhancing productivity and strategic effectiveness.

Rogier expresses a compelling sentiment: for CEOs who neglect to incorporate AI into their daily operations, they are effectively diminishing their productivity to a mere 80%. This perspective highlights an urgency for leaders to adapt and embrace AI rather than resist it. “If you aren’t using AI and you’re a CEO, what are you doing?” Rogier says, urging peers to recognize AI not as a threat but as a powerful accelerator for their business practices.

By integrating AI tools into his workflow, Rogier claims to have salvaged an entire workday that he now reallocates toward areas demanding his leadership and vision. This substantial time savings can significantly shift the dynamics of organizational productivity, enabling CEOs to focus on strategic initiatives that require human insight and judgment.

Central to Rogier’s effectiveness is a personal suite of eight AI tools that he refers to as his “AI CEO Stack.” This customized approach is not reliant on a single AI application but instead leverages multiple tools tailored to address specific tasks. Leading this toolkit is “Davidify,” a bespoke version of ChatGPT that synthesizes Rogier’s notes and brings his writing style to life in emails and speeches. By inputting a few bullet points, he can generate articulate and well-structured communications effortlessly.

Beyond Davidify, Rogier utilizes various other applications that streamline processes and enhance project management efficiency. He employs Gamma to create visually appealing all-hands presentations quickly, while the combination of Make.com, Todoist, and ChatGPT automates the prioritization of his to-do list, eliminating hours of manual organization.

Furthermore, NotebookLM provides aggregated content from his desired YouTube talks and academic papers, transforming them into bite-sized 15-minute podcasts that are convenient for walks. Rogier’s toolkit also includes Lovable for rapid prototype feedback cycles, On Call for hassle-free consultations with industry experts like Chris Voss and Mark Cuban, Claude Projects for real-time feedback based on customer demographics, and Suno to curate personalized playlists for work and workouts.

Rogier’s insights serve as a clarion call for business leaders to recognize that AI is not just a passing trend but a fundamental shift in workplace dynamics. He highlights a broader trend: within the tech sector, CEOs are increasingly adopting AI to maintain a competitive edge. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella exemplifies this embrace of technology, stating that GPT-5 and Microsoft 365 Copilot have become integral to his workflow, enhancing intelligence across applications on a daily basis.

This adoption reflects a broader understanding among leaders that leveraging AI tools is becoming essential for driving productivity and innovation in contemporary business environments. It is no longer a matter of simply being aware of AI; it is about integrating it into the core functioning of the organization.

The implications of Rogier’s experience are significant. As other CEOs observe his success, the anticipation is that more leaders will adopt similar strategies and tools to enhance their productivity. The realization that AI can reclaim precious time for higher-level strategic thinking prompts a reevaluation of how modern CEOs allocate their efforts. Instead of succumbing to feelings of insecurity, they should view AI as a partner in their success.

In conclusion, as David Rogier leads the charge in effectively harnessing AI for productivity, his insights offer a valuable roadmap for others to follow. For CEOs looking to elevate their effectiveness in a tech-centric world, the question is no longer whether to adopt AI, but rather how to implement it thoughtfully and strategically to unlock the full potential of their roles.