As artificial intelligence and automation reshape the workplace, bestselling author and leadership expert Rocky Romanella has released a four-part series titled "The Mentor: Believing in People Before They Believe in Themselves." The series, available starting September 15, 2026, aims to help leaders stay grounded in timeless principles of belief, mentorship, coachability, and legacy. Romanella, a former UPS executive and author of "Tighten the Lug Nuts," argues that while AI can enhance productivity, it cannot lead. "In the age of AI, leaders must remember that belief, trust, and character are still the foundation of every great organization," he 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 leadership 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 published conversation with Wooden, available on his website, offers a firsthand look at the values that underpin the series. Readers can access it at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/category/leadership-training/.
The implications of this announcement are significant for organizations navigating rapid technological change. As companies increasingly rely on AI, there is a risk of losing the human touch that drives engagement and loyalty. Romanella's series underscores that leadership is not about technology but about people. "If you choose to lead, you must choose to be an honest and trusted leader," he 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." The full series can be accessed at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/category/newsletters/.
Romanella's insights come at a critical time when many leaders are grappling with how to integrate AI without sacrificing company culture. His Balanced Leadership model, which he has taught to thousands, emphasizes that soft skills and ethical decision-making are more crucial than ever. In addition to the series, Romanella hosts The Leadership Library Podcast, now in its ninth season, which provides practical advice for leaders at all levels. New episodes are posted weekly at https://tightenthelugnuts.com/. His book, "Tighten The Lug Nuts: The Principles Of Balanced Leadership," achieved number one bestseller status in both Business Management and Business Leadership, and continues to serve as a resource for those looking to build high-character, high-performance cultures.
As AI continues to transform industries, Romanella's message is clear: the future belongs to leaders who can balance technological advancement with human connection. By focusing on belief, mentorship, and legacy, organizations can ensure that they not only survive disruption but thrive by putting people first.
