Leading with Humanity in Crisis: AI, Empathy, and Disaster Relief with Kerri Murray

Host

Dr. MJ

Guest

Kerri Murray — President of ShelterBox USA

Episode Summary

In this episode of Heartwired: Emotionally Intelligent Leadership for an AI World, Dr. MJ sits down with Kerri Murray, President of ShelterBox USA, to explore what emotionally intelligent leadership looks like on the front lines of global humanitarian crises. Kerri shares how her organization responds to families displaced by war, earthquakes, hurricanes, and climate disasters by providing emergency shelter and essential supplies in some of the most difficult environments in the world.

Throughout the conversation, Kerri reflects on the balance between technology and humanity in disaster response. While AI can help predict disaster zones, improve logistics, and accelerate aid deployment, she explains why empathy, listening, trust, and human connection remain irreplaceable. Drawing from experiences in places like Morocco, Jamaica, and the Philippines, she offers a powerful perspective on leadership, resilience, and what it means to stay deeply human in an increasingly automated world.

The episode also explores the disproportionate impact displacement has on women and children, the role of partnerships in humanitarian work, and why authentic communication and compassion are becoming essential leadership skills in the age of AI.

Key Takeaways

Shelter is more than survival — it restores dignity.

Kerri explains that emergency shelter is not simply about providing a roof over someone’s head. It creates privacy, stability, and a sense of safety for families who have lost everything. Shelter becomes the first step toward emotional and physical recovery after disaster or conflict.

AI can improve response speed, but it cannot replace empathy.

AI helps organizations like ShelterBox predict disaster patterns, position resources strategically, and improve logistics. However, Kerri emphasizes that technology cannot replace the emotional intelligence required to sit with people in grief, listen to their stories, and build trust in moments of crisis.

Humanitarian leadership is rooted in relationships.

The conversation highlights how meaningful partnerships drive effective disaster response. Whether working with local aid workers, community leaders, or partner organizations, the success of humanitarian work depends on trust, collaboration, and local knowledge.

Women are central to recovery efforts.

Kerri discusses how women and children make up the majority of displaced populations worldwide and often carry the responsibility of rebuilding communities after disaster. Supporting women with resources, safety, and opportunity strengthens long-term recovery efforts for entire communities.

Authentic communication matters more than ever.

As AI-generated communication becomes more common, Kerri reflects on the growing importance of authenticity in leadership. People want genuine conversations, emotional presence, and human connection — not automated responses or overly polished messaging.

The future is human and technology working together.

Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for people, Kerri sees the future as a partnership between technological innovation and human compassion. Effective leadership requires balancing efficiency with empathy and ensuring humanity remains at the center of decision-making.

Memorable Quotes

“Shelter is the first step toward recovery.”

“People want connection.”

“Leadership becomes about listening, empathy, and staying human.”

“The future is human and technology — not one replacing the other.”

About Our Guest

Kerri Murray is the President of ShelterBox USA, a global humanitarian organization that provides emergency shelter and essential supplies to families displaced by disaster and conflict. She has led disaster response and humanitarian partnership efforts supporting communities affected by crises in regions including Ukraine, Haiti, Syria, Morocco, and the Philippines.

Kerri is a passionate advocate for women and girls impacted by displacement and believes humanitarian leadership must be compassionate, courageous, and deeply human-centered. She is also a recipient of the Martin Luther King Jr. Vision Award and has received an honorary doctorate in Humanitarian Services from Providence College.

Website: ShelterBox USA

LinkedIn: Kerri Murray LinkedIn

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Contact HeartWired

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Website: drmjheartwired.com

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Host: Dr. MJ

Guest: Dr. Okokon O. Udo, Leadership Scholar, Coach & Founder of SoulEngineering LLC

Episode Summary

In this episode of Heartwired, Dr. MJ sits down with Dr. Okokon O. Udo—a scholar, coach, and self-described “engineer of the soul”—to explore the deeper human implications of artificial intelligence.

Drawing from his experience designing a leadership program for an African audience, Dr. Udo shares how AI revealed hidden assumptions, cultural gaps, and systemic biases embedded within its outputs. What initially appeared to be a powerful and efficient tool quickly became a mirror reflecting whose perspectives are included—and whose are left out.

Together, they unpack the idea that AI is not neutral, emphasizing that it is shaped by human context, bias, and historical realities. The conversation moves into the responsibility leaders carry when engaging with AI, highlighting the need for emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and intentionality.

Dr. Udo also introduces the concept of building a “relationship” with AI—one that evolves over time but still requires human consciousness, questioning, and ethical grounding. The discussion ultimately challenges leaders to avoid passivity and instead actively shape how AI impacts humanity, culture, and leadership moving forward.

Key Takeaways

AI Is Not Neutral

AI does not exist in a vacuum—it reflects the cultural context, assumptions, and biases of the people who design it. Leaders must recognize this instead of assuming objectivity.

What’s Missing Matters

Without intentional prompting, AI often defaults to mainstream perspectives, excluding diverse cultural viewpoints. Representation requires active participation and questioning.

Advocacy Is Required

Users must consistently ask better questions and challenge outputs to ensure broader perspectives are included—especially those from marginalized groups.

Responsibility Is Human, Not AI

AI itself is not responsible for bias—people are. The responsibility lies with both developers and users, especially those with power and influence.

Emotional Intelligence Is Essential

Leaders must bring full awareness—mind, body, and intuition—into their interaction with AI. Discomfort or misalignment is valuable data, not something to ignore.

AI as a Relationship

Over time, AI adapts to a user’s voice, preferences, and patterns. While this creates alignment, it still requires conscious direction and ethical engagement.

The Risk of Going Unconscious

The speed and convenience of AI can lead to passive consumption. Without awareness, leaders risk amplifying bias at scale.

Hybrid Intelligence Is the Future

The goal is not to replace human intelligence, but to balance AI capability with human emotional intelligence, ethics, and relational awareness.

Memorable Quotes

"AI does not exist in a vacuum."

"What we are building into AI is not just intelligence—it’s a reflection of how we see each other."

"If we just consume what comes at us, by the time we understand its impact, it’s already done."

"We have to bring our full selves into the relationship with AI."

About Our Guest

Dr. Okokon O. Udo is a scholar, practitioner, coach, and founder of SoulEngineering LLC. His work lives at the intersection of identity, relationship, and meaning-making. He serves as Director of the MA in Organization Development & Leadership and Director of Evidence Based Coaching at Fielding Graduate University.

Dr. Udo’s work focuses on helping individuals and organizations deepen awareness, challenge assumptions, and lead with intention—especially in complex and evolving environments.

Website: https://soulengineeringllc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drokokonudo2002/

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Contact HeartWired

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Website: drmjheartwired.com

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Episode Title: The Creative Process in an AI World: Mindfulness, Trust, and Lateral Thinking

Host: Dr. MJ

Guest: Kathy Leader, Founder of The Art Process Studio

Episode Summary

In this episode of Heartwired, Dr. MJ speaks with Kathy Leader, founder of The Art Process Studio, about the role of creativity in an AI-driven world. Kathy shares her journey from being a visual artist and educator to creating a space where individuals and teams can explore creativity without the pressure of producing a perfect end result.

The conversation focuses on how the creative process helps people slow down, reduce anxiety, and open up to new ways of thinking. Kathy explains how working with teams revealed fear and vulnerability around creativity, and how guiding people through the process builds trust, connection, and openness. Together, they explore the differences between linear and lateral thinking, the impact of hands-on creative work, and how mindfulness and creativity support emotional intelligence and human connection.

Key Takeaways

Focus on Process Over Product:

Kathy emphasizes that creativity should not be driven by the end result. When people focus on the process, they become more open, less anxious, and more willing to explore ideas.

Creativity Brings Out Vulnerability and Trust:

Many individuals feel fear or anxiety when asked to create. As they move through the process, they begin to trust themselves and others, leading to stronger team connection.

Lateral Thinking Expands Ideas:

Unlike linear thinking, lateral thinking allows people to explore multiple possibilities. This approach encourages openness and creates space for new ideas to emerge.

Hands-On Creativity Encourages Mindfulness:

Working with physical tools like paintbrushes brings focus to the present moment. This reduces distractions and helps individuals enter a more mindful, creative state.

Creative Spaces Change Team Dynamics:

In creative environments, communication becomes more open and less guarded. Teams connect in ways that don’t typically happen in traditional workplace settings.

Creativity is Inherently Human:

Kathy reminds listeners that creativity is something everyone is born with. It is not limited to artists, but something that can be developed and accessed by anyone.

Memorable Quotes

"It’s not about the product—it’s about the process."

"Leaning on AI too much can make us lazy."

"Creativity belongs to all of us."

"Paying attention one moment at a time—that’s mindfulness."

About Our Guest

Kathy Leader is the founder and owner of The Art Process Studio. The idea behind the studio is to nurture a love of art-making as a healing and mindful form of creative expression. Kathy is a visual artist, creativity coach, and meditation facilitator who creates workshops for individuals and teams, encouraging openness, flexibility, and creative exploration.

Connect with Kathy Leader

Website: https://www.theart-process.com/

Email: theartprocess@yahoo.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artworkshops-theartprocess/

Connect with Heartwired

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Host: Dr. MJ

Guest: Julie Spear, CEO of Jewels Talent Solutions, LLC

Episode Summary

In this episode of Heartwired, Dr. MJ sits down with Julie Spear, CEO of Jewels Talent Solutions, LLC, to explore what it really takes to hire the right people in today’s fast-paced, AI-influenced hiring landscape. Drawing from over a decade of experience in recruiting, Julie shares how she moves beyond resumes and scripted answers to truly understand the person behind the candidate.

From navigating overly prepared interviewees to helping organizations avoid rushed hiring decisions, Julie emphasizes the importance of slowing down, asking deeper questions, and focusing on long-term fit. The conversation also dives into emotional intelligence in leadership, adapting communication styles across different personalities, and the critical role of onboarding and mentorship. Julie also shares her journey from corporate to entrepreneurship and her passion for advancing women in leadership, reminding us that people—not just positions—are the foundation of every successful organization.

Key Takeaways

Go Beyond Scripted Answers:

With candidates increasingly relying on AI tools to prepare for interviews, it’s essential to ask deeper, more personalized questions. Real authenticity shows up when candidates speak from lived experience, not rehearsed responses.

Slow Hiring Leads to Stronger Teams:

Rushing to fill a role often leads to misalignment and turnover. Taking time for multiple interviews, panel conversations, and deeper evaluation helps ensure long-term success.

Read the Human Signals:

Emotional intelligence isn’t just what candidates say—it’s how they respond. Body language, tone, and how someone reacts under pressure reveal far more than prepared answers.

Onboarding is as Important as Hiring:

Hiring the right person is only the beginning. The first 30 days, along with proper training and mentorship, are critical to long-term employee success and retention.

Adapt Leadership to the Individual:

Strong leaders adjust their communication style based on who they’re working with. Understanding different personalities—especially across technical and non-technical roles—is key to effective leadership.

Women in Leadership Create Balance:

Julie highlights the importance of women having a seat at the table. Their ability to lead with empathy, collaboration, and mentorship brings a necessary balance to modern organizations.

Memorable Quotes

"I want to know that the person I’m speaking to is the real person—not just words on a resume."

"Slow down and figure it out."

"Emotional intelligence is about learning to communicate with different types of people in different ways."

"We lift as we climb."

About Our Guest

Julie Spear is the CEO of Jewels Talent Solutions, LLC, a strategic recruiting firm dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with organizations nationwide. With over a decade of experience, she is known for her relationship-driven approach, helping companies build strong leadership teams while guiding professionals toward meaningful career opportunities.

Here more from her here: LinkedIn | Website

Connect with Heartwired

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Episode Summary

In this episode of Heartwired, Dr. MJ sits down with Jake Pasimi—a leader with over 15 years of experience spanning D2C brands and SaaS martech—to discuss where technology meets humanity. Jake shares his "Batman" persona as a professor at Villanova University, where he has spent a decade teaching the next generation of leaders how to balance high-tech tools with high-touch emotional intelligence.

From the "Tree Metaphor" of prompt engineering to the ethical concerns of data privacy, Jake and Dr. MJ explore how leaders can use AI not just for productivity, but for genuine differentiation and human-centric collaboration.

Key Takeaways

• Trust But Verify: Reliability in AI starts with understanding the "inputs before the outcomes". Jake explains that while AI offers instant gratification, the best results come from the 80/20 rule: if you can get your question 80% of the way there with context and detail, the AI can provide a much more useful output.
• The Tree Metaphor: Think of a goal as a leaf on a tree. If you jump straight for the leaf, you break the branches; true success comes from planning a path up the trunk and limbs—understanding the foundational context before seeking the final answer.
• Differentiating in the Final 20%: Since everyone has access to AI, the "80% solution" is now the baseline. Human expertise and specialization are required to reach the final 20%, which is where true competitive advantage and differentiation live.
• The Leader’s Role in an AI World: Leaders should be tool-agnostic and result-focused. Success comes from collaborating with teams to identify which problems, if solved by AI, would make their jobs more energized and impactful.
• Ethical Concerns: Beyond corporate data security, Jake expresses deep concern regarding how personal search data (such as health inquiries for children) could be used by future systems to impact insurance or long-term opportunities.

Memorable Quotes

"Trusting the outputs starts with making sure you have the right inputs."

"You actually could argue that the 20 percent's even more important than the 80 because everybody's going to do the 80."

"With more power and more tools, we need more collaboration, not less."

About Our Guest

Jake Pasimi has spent over 15 years leading marketing, revenue, and analytical teams for some of the world's largest brands in the e-commerce and retail space. His expertise spans digital marketing, RevOps, and customer lifetime value (CLV). By day, he finds simple human answers buried under mountains of data; by night, he teaches Digital Marketing Strategy & Analytics at Villanova University in both the undergraduate and MBA programs.

Get more updates from him here: LinkedIn

Connect with Heartwired

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• Share: If you found value in this conversation, share it with a colleague or friend who is navigating the world of AI leadership.

I have the privilege of sitting down with Noah Daniels, Senior Vice President of Market Development at Simpson Strong-Tie. Noah’s career is a remarkable journey that seamlessly blends technical expertise with a true people-first philosophy. He’s known for championing emotionally intelligent leadership and driving digital transformation in the traditionally structured world of manufacturing.

We explore Noah’s unique approach to integrating digital transformation within Simpson Strong-Tie, a 70-year-old manufacturing company that’s leading innovation in homebuilding and affordable housing. We get into the challenges and opportunities when introducing technology to an under-digitized industry, and how staying human-centered is the key differentiator in a tech-focused landscape.

Noah and I also get personal as we talk about the “double whammy” impact of post-Covid isolation and AI automation on our social fabric, especially how these forces affect younger generations. We reflect on the urgency of emotional intelligence in leadership, and why relationships, empathy, and vulnerability are more crucial than ever.

Key Takeaways & Topics

• Digital Transformation with Heart: How Noah is leading the charge at Simpson Strong-Tie by blending innovation with a human-first approach in a manufacturing environment.
• Affordable Housing Solutions: The role of technology and emotional intelligence in addressing the housing crisis and building more accessible homes.
• AI and Outsourcing Our Thinking: The risks of letting AI do the thinking for us, and strategies to maintain critical and creative human thinking on your teams.
• Emotional Intelligence Post-Covid: The heightened importance of empathy, connection, and psychological safety in a remote and automated workplace.
• Building Trust Remotely: Practical tools for engaging virtual teams, fostering trust, and sustaining meaningful relationships even when you’ve never met in person.
• Addressing AI Anxiety: How to help your team move past the fear of job loss through continuous learning, a growth mindset, and leveraging unique human strengths.
• The Indispensable Power of Empathy: Why empathy is the one irreplaceable human quality that no AI will ever replicate and how it builds trust, loyalty, and collaboration.

If today’s conversation resonated with you, I encourage you to share this episode with a leader or friend who needs to hear it. Want to keep leading with heart in the AI age? Subscribe to HeartWired for more insights and connect with Noah Daniels on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-daniels-0a0b911/

Stay wired to what matters most and keep leading with empathy.

Hilary Bilbrey is not just an award-winning author and speaker; she’s a true thought leader in emotional intelligence, resilience, and authentic leadership. Hilary’s work especially her book The Authenticity Key challenges us all to deepen self-awareness, lead with integrity, and leverage technology as a tool for good, not as a replacement for meaningful human interaction.

In this candid conversation, Hilary and I dive into the real effects AI is having on our personal and professional lives both the exciting opportunities and the fears it brings up. We talk about the “pleasing bias” in AI, the importance of asking machines for honest feedback (instead of just flattery!), and actionable strategies for keeping our core values at the center as we embrace new technologies.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

1. AI’s Built-in Bias to Please: Hilary breaks down why AI is designed to tell users what they want to hear, and how that can limit our growth unless we intentionally ask for challenge and critique.
2. Prompting for Growth: Learn practical prompts to get AI to disagree with you, point out your blind spots, or play the role of “devil’s advocate” to strengthen your proposals, presentations, or ideas.
3. Conversational AI: Hilary shares her real-world workflow using both voice and text with AI to brainstorm, plan, and iterate, whether she’s on a walk or at her desk.
4. Self-Reflection & Capability Models: Discover how AI can serve as a tool for honest self-assessment and ongoing personal development.
5. How AI Can Enhance Our Humanity: Together, we debunk myths about AI making us less relevant, and show how it actually frees us to focus on deeper relationships, real listening, and meaningful work.
6. Authenticity in an AI World: We explore why you must know yourself your values, strengths, and leadership style before you can “train” any tool to reflect your true voice and aspirations.
7. Overcoming Fear with Curiosity: Hear Hilary’s simple, “safe” ways to start exploring AI, from vacation itineraries to finding unique gifts, before working up to using it for business decisions and coaching.

If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend or colleague who’s curious about the future of work, AI, and emotional intelligence. Be sure to subscribe to HeartWired so you never miss an episode. And if you’re ready to embrace AI as a partner in your authentic leadership journey start small, stay curious, and trust yourself.

Thanks again to Hilary Bilbrey for her wisdom. You can find more about her book The Authenticity Key wherever books are sold.

Let’s keep leading with heart, one conversation at a time!

— Dr. Mary Jean Vignone

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

In this inspiring conversation, we dive deep into the intersection of mental health care and artificial intelligence. Dr. Gemma Sharp shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship and charity leadership, all driven by her desire to create real-world impact. We discuss the importance of human-centered, co-designed AI, how to navigate conflicting stakeholder needs, and the critical ethical boundaries that must guide tech innovation in high-stakes domains like mental health.

Key Takeaways and Topics Covered

1. Why Diverse Roles Matter: Learn how Dr. Gemma Sharp integrates research, clinical experience, and tech leadership to drive meaningful change in mental health ([00:00:49]–[00:02:25]).
2. Co-Design in Practice: Discover the double diamond design model and how involving end-users from the start (those with lived experience, clinicians, advocates, and more) leads to safer, more effective AI tools ([00:05:28]–[00:07:59]).
3. Ethical Guardrails: Explore why “just because you can doesn’t mean you should” is Dr. Gemma Sharp’s mantra for AI development, and the risks of moving faster than governance and ethics allow ([00:12:22]–[00:14:28]).
4. Practical AI in Care: We differentiate between lower-risk uses (admin support, clinical notes, scheduling) and high-risk ones (AI as therapist substitutes), and why current technology is best viewed as an assistant, not a replacement ([00:15:01]–[00:17:27]).
5. Building Trust and Safety: Hear about GEM and EDS-E, two AI-driven tools Dr. Gemma Sharp has co-created, and why listening to user concerns led to “less fancy” but safer, trusted solutions ([00:17:37]–[00:19:42]).
6. Advice for Innovators: The most crucial question to answer before launching an AI mental health tool? Define safety boundaries and know exactly what’s in and out of scope ([00:20:18]–[00:21:01]).
7. Community Impact: Get introduced to the Global Consortium for Research in Eating Disorders, an inclusive, barrier-free organization aiming to welcome all voices in support and research ([00:21:21]–[00:23:23]).

If you’re a clinician, researcher, entrepreneur, or technologist curious about the future of mental health and AI, this episode is packed with wisdom, practical frameworks, and ethical insights. Dr. Gemma Sharp’s perspective balances optimism and caution, always centering technology as a support for, not a replacement of, human connection.

1. Learn more about eating disorders research or join the free Global Consortium: core-ed.com.au
2. Contact Dr. Gemma Sharp through Adelaide University, LinkedIn, or X for more on AI tools and consortium events.

If today’s conversation resonated with you, please share this episode with friends or colleagues interested in responsible AI, human-centered design, or mental health innovation. Subscribe to HeartWired for more thought leadership where tech meets human values and stay tuned for our next episode!

Thank you for being part of the HeartWired community. Your curiosity and commitment to emotional intelligence in the AI age make all the difference.

— Dr. MJ

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

In this insightful conversation, I sat down with Laurel Sykes, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer at American Riviera Bank, a seasoned leader with over 30 years navigating regulatory shifts, mergers, and enterprise risk management in the banking sector. Together, we explore how AI is evolving the finance industry, from fraud detection to hiring practices, and how leaders can balance innovation with human empathy.

Laurel Sykes is a powerhouse when it comes to banking risk, compliance, and operational excellence. With her deep expertise in enterprise risk management, anti-money laundering, business continuity, and much more, she’s uniquely positioned to unpack how AI is reshaping financial institutions without losing sight of the very real people behind the numbers.

Key Topics & Takeaways

1. The Evolution of AI in Banking:
2. We explore how AI isn’t new to banks from algorithms powering credit decisions to today’s generative models creating content and analyzing vast data streams.
3. Balancing Innovation & Security:
4. Laurel discusses piloting AI tools like Copilot internally, focusing on privacy, security, and limiting exposure to sensitive client data.
5. AI Risks & Real-World Safeguards:
6. Practical insights into how improperly configured AI can expose confidential information or amplify fraud risks and how keeping an expert “human in the middle” is non-negotiable.
7. Fraud in the AI Age:
8. The episode covers real examples of AI-powered fraud, including deepfake scams, voice impersonation of loved ones, and evolving social engineering targeting everyone from seniors to young adults.
9. Maintaining the Human Touch:
10. Even as automation grows, banking remains a relationship business. Laurel and I discuss how authenticity, emotional intelligence, and intentional leadership keep enterprises grounded.
11. AI in Hiring & HR:
12. The challenges of AI-generated resumes and candidates using AI in interviews, plus tips for crafting behavioral interview questions that reveal true experience beyond what an algorithm can prepare.
13. Leadership in a Tech-Driven Era:
14. Advice for leaders: Pilot AI thoughtfully, treat AI like an intern—not a replacement—and always double-check results for accuracy, compliance, and tone.
15. Regulatory Insights:
16. What leaders need to know about emerging laws governing AI, automated decision-making, and consumer data protection.

As AI becomes embedded in nearly every organizational process, leaders face the dual challenge of driving efficiency while remaining vigilant stewards of data, relationships, and trust. This episode is a must-listen for financial professionals, risk officers, HR leaders, and anyone navigating technological change with a human-first mindset.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to HeartWired and share this conversation with colleagues or friends who care about the intersection of tech, trust, and leadership. And if you want to stay on the cutting edge of emotionally intelligent management in an AI world, leave us a review or reach out with topics you’d like us to cover next.

Thanks again for joining me and Laurel Sykes on this journey. Remember: technology shapes the future, but heart shapes technology’s impact.

Subscribe. Share. Stay HeartWired.

Dr. MJ

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

We explore how leaders can cultivate and trust their intuition amid the noise of fear and fast-paced technological change, especially as AI is integrated into more aspects of our organizations and lives. Deborah’s stories, including her surprising path to becoming an AI educator at Santa Barbara City College, offer actionable wisdom for anyone navigating transformation.

Deborah Deras is an accomplished international speaker, organizational leadership doctoral student, corporate trainer, and the author of “Your Ego Is Not Your Amigo.” She specializes in helping leaders access their intuition, move beyond imposter syndrome, and embrace emotionally intelligent practices that keep humanity at the center of technology.

Key Takeaways and Topics

1. Understanding Ego vs. Intuition: Deborah explains how ego shows up as a “barking puppy” and why trying to suppress fear can actually amplify it. Instead, she shares tools for training your inner voice and working with, rather than against, your fear.
2. Women and Leadership: We discuss why women often hold themselves back from advancement and how to lean into possibility over perfectionism.
3. The Role of Intuition in AI Adoption: As organizations rush to integrate AI, leaders must use intuition and emotional intelligence to guide responsible innovation. Deborah raises powerful questions for leaders to ask: Does AI align with our core values? Are we losing sight of the human touch in pursuit of efficiency?
4. Vision & Discernment: AI can synthesize data, but it lacks lived experience, vision, and discernment—traits only humans can contribute. Deborah emphasizes that emotional intelligence and intuition are superpowers in the AI era.
5. Practical Mindfulness: Learning to “come home” to yourself requires moments of stillness and reflection. We talk about practical ways leaders can slow down and check in with their intuition amidst constant technological acceleration.
6. Personal Stories: Deborah shares her own path to AI education, guided by intuition versus logical career planning—and the business implications for integrating or misusing AI tools.

If this episode resonated with you or if you know someone struggling to find balance between technology and their own wisdom, please share HeartWired with them! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.

Connect with Deborah Deras at DeborahDeras.com to access her free meditation or check out her latest book, “Your Ego Is Not Your Amigo.”

Want more conversations about emotional intelligence and leadership in the AI era? Make sure to stay in touch for future episodes—and don’t forget to slow down, listen to your intuition, and lead with heart.

Thank you for listening!

— Dr. MJ

Timestamps:

00:00 "Fear, Excitement, and Intuition"

05:51 "Embracing Change Beyond Fear"

08:24 "Balancing AI Innovation and Safety"

11:46 Right Place, Right Time

13:29 "AI Use Must Align Values"

20:27 "Finding Stillness Amid AI Progress"

21:19 "Stillness Amidst Technology"

25:12 "Intuition, Emotional Intelligence, AI"

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

Alan Sitomer’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his beginnings as a high school English teacher in inner-city LA to being named California Teacher of the Year, Alan now leads Mastery Coding, a company transforming computer science education for K-12. He’s also a member of the California Department of Education’s AI Task Force and spearheads the United States Academic Esports League, bridging the gap between student passion and workforce opportunity.

In this episode, Alan and I discuss:

1. The challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into education and society
2. How emotional intelligence shapes decision-making in leadership, especially amidst rapid technological change
3. Alan’s philosophy of humility and ethical awareness when tackling AI’s impact in schools
4. The importance of engaging students with passion-driven, relevant curriculum (hello, video games & esports!)
5. Practical wisdom on developing tenacity and resilience in a world of instant gratification
6. Alan’s advice for cultivating purpose-driven leadership and the role of love vs. fear in impactful decisions

Key Takeaways

1. Humility is essential: When dealing with AI’s unknowns and ethical dilemmas, leaders must embrace humility and foster informed, civil dialogue.
2. Connection matters: Alan believes harnessing student passions (like gaming) can fuel academic and career readiness, as seen through initiatives such as the USA Academic Esports League.
3. Emotional intelligence in leadership: Whether in the classroom or the boardroom, listening, transparency, and understanding your own strengths/limitations are vital.
4. Developing resilience: Alan shares candidly about his 14-year journey of rejection as an author, offering insight on staying true to meaningful work—even when faced with adversity.
5. Love over fear: In AI-driven workplaces and communities, having a healthy relationship with your own fears and making decisions from a place of authenticity and love, not fear, will foster alignment and lasting impact.

Topics Covered

1. The future of education and AI
2. Emotional intelligence and ethical leadership
3. Social awareness and empathy in system-wide decisions
4. Esports as a vehicle for STEM/STEAM learning and workforce development
5. Navigating rapid tech change and capitalism’s influence in edtech
6. Building resilience and meaningfulness in a fast-paced world

If you’re passionate about emotionally intelligent leadership or curious how technology meets humanity, join the conversation! Start by checking out Mastery Coding and the United States Academic Esports League at usacademicesports.com. Share this episode with fellow educators, tech leaders, and parents—let’s build a future where students are prepared not just with skills, but with emotional intelligence and purpose.

Subscribe to HeartWired for more discussions at the intersection of AI, education, and the human touch. Leave your thoughts or questions in the comments, and let’s keep this important dialogue alive.

Thank you for listening!

Dr. M.J.

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

Mehek brings a fascinating blend of experiences to the show. She’s a Stanford MBA graduate with a background in molecular biology from UC Berkeley, and has led AI initiatives in the pharmaceutical industry. Inspired by her personal journey and her family’s legacy in medicine, Mehek Mohan has channeled her passion into Kahani, aiming to revolutionize access to continuous, personalized mental healthcare.

In this heartfelt conversation, Mehek opens up about what inspired her path at the intersection of AI, healthcare, and emotional intelligence. We look at how her lived experiences—and those with her co-founder, both having loved ones affected by eating disorders—shaped their vision for Kahani.

Together, we explore:

1. The critical gaps in mental healthcare for eating disorders and how technology can bridge them
2. Destigmatizing eating disorders and the importance of early intervention through education and community
3. The power and limitations of AI: Why human connection remains irreplaceable—and how AI can enhance, not replace, traditional care
4. Ethical responsibility in AI for mental health: How Kahani implements non-negotiable frameworks, model guardrails, and never gives direct medical or lifestyle advice
5. Personalized onboarding and care plans that adapt to each user’s needs and progress
6. Leadership, emotional resilience, and Mehek’s strategies for managing stress and staying self-aware as a founder

Key Takeaways and Insights

1. AI is a tool, not a replacement for human therapists: Kahani is designed as an adjunct to traditional care, available 24/7, helping users in moments when professional support isn’t immediately accessible.
2. Real-time support for real-world triggers: Whether it’s late-night anxiety or a challenging trip to the grocery store, Kahani offers circuit-breakers and proven frameworks to help users practice healthier coping strategies.
3. Personalization and privacy are top priorities: Kahani uses a 90-minute intake to tailor a four-week plan for each user, while maintaining strong ethical guidelines to protect vulnerable populations.
4. Ethics first: Immediate resources are provided for crises like self-harm, and all AI interactions are founded on introspective, evidence-based methods, never directive advice.
5. Advice for healthcare AI founders: Keep the “human in the loop.” Regularly sample and review AI responses for quality and appropriateness. Lean into your gut feelings—empathy and emotional intelligence are as vital as technical know-how.

Are you or someone you love seeking support for eating disorder recovery? Curious about AI’s role in transforming mental health care? Download Kahani Health on the App Store or Play Store today or visit getkahani.com.

If you’re a founder, leader, or innovator in healthcare thinking of integrating AI responsibly, tune in for actionable insights you can trust from someone who’s building ethical, empathetic technology on the front lines.

Thanks for listening to HeartWired. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share with your network—together, we can keep humans at the heart of AI-driven progress.

Subscribe now and stay tuned for more stories at the intersection of emotional intelligence, technology, and leadership!

Dr. MJ

I’m thrilled to be joined by two incredible leaders: George Leis and Jorge Perez. George is a YMCA USA Board Chair, the EVP and Market President for CalPrivate Bank, and a trusted, mission-driven leader committed to building stronger communities.

Jorge is the President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati and a trailblazer who’s leading the charge on integrating AI across the YMCA movement with vision, empathy, and innovation.

Episode Highlights & Key Topics

The origin story of the YMCA’s AI initiative and how the pandemic accelerated digital transformation within the organization.

Why AI isn’t just about technology, but about staying true to the YMCA’s mission: fostering connection, care, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Real-life examples of AI in action: Meet "Yasmin," the ChatGPT-based AI youth development agent, and "Harmony," the HR agent helping staff and branches nationwide.

Emotional intelligence as the core of effective AI leadership—how self-awareness, empathy, and governance ensure technology enhances (not replaces) human connection.

Lessons learned from governing AI responsibly: Building AI aligned with organizational values, and setting critical guardrails around sensitive use cases.

The evolving role of leaders: Why leading in an AI-enabled world means leading both humans and AI agents with integrity, mindfulness, and a commitment to the human mission.

Actionable advice for future leaders—how being an emotionally intelligent practitioner is now essential in a digital-first, AI-augmented era.

Key Takeaways

AI can dramatically scale human impact, but must be trained and governed with the same care—anchored in values and emotional intelligence—as we would with staff.

Empathy isn’t a “soft skill”—it’s a strategic advantage and absolutely necessary when driving organizational change and innovation.

Leading AI agents mirrors leading people: values, expectations, and continuous training/testing are crucial.

Trust and transparency drive community adoption and the ethical, effective use of technology.

The future belongs to leaders who blend heart and foresight—those who never lose sight of people, even as they embrace new tools.

If you’re passionate about human-centered innovation or leading teams through digital transformation, this episode is a must-listen! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share HeartWired with fellow leaders and change-makers. If today’s conversation sparked ideas, questions, or you want a deeper dive on any topic, reach out to us. Let’s keep building a world where technology and humanity grow stronger, together.

Stay heartwired,

Dr. MJ

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

Mark Sylvester is a thought leader with decades of experience at the cutting edge of technology and leadership. He is a Creativity Strategist, AI Innovation Leader, Executive Producer, TED/TEDx Veteran and Award-Winning Innovator.

He’s the mind behind the “dive in and discover” strategies that helped bring HeartWired to life, and he draws on his true elder perspective—an “elder,” not just “older”—to guide others through overwhelming transitions, especially as technology rapidly evolves.

In this episode, Mark and I dive deep into the intersection of emotional intelligence (EQ) and artificial intelligence (AI), exploring how leaders today can integrate both into their organizations, teams, and personal leadership styles. Mark shares his wisdom on the importance of fostering a culture of trust, ways to harness AI as a collaborative partner (instead of fearing it), and practical strategies for leaders to adopt a hands-on approach to technology and relationship-building.

Key Topics and Takeaways:

1. Discovering Purpose and Passion:
2. Mark recounts the framework we used to clarify my own purpose and approach to this podcast: identifying passions, stacking professional skills, recognizing what’s marketable, and clarifying mission.
3. From Overwhelm to Actionable Roadmap:
4. Insights on breaking big visions into manageable steps and why a mentor or "Sherpa" makes all the difference.
5. Navigating Technological Change:
6. As leaders who’ve lived through tremendous change—from early computers to today’s AI—Mark explains why understanding and demystifying AI reduces fear and drives adoption.
7. Practical AI Adoption for Leaders:
8. Why every leader must experiment hands-on with tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot—and how to start, regardless of technical background.
9. Healthy Human-AI Collaboration:
10. We discuss the importance of realistic expectations, resisting AI “slop,” and using AI as a respected team member, not a surrogate leader or best friend.
11. Critical Thinking and Emotional Intelligence:
12. AI mirrors the clarity and emotional energy we bring—so it’s essential to apply critical thinking, read the output, and never delegate learning or leadership entirely to machines.
13. Trust and Safety as Foundation for AI Integration:
14. Mark emphasizes building a culture of trust and psychological safety as the “trust stack” that must come before adopting any new tech stack.
15. Powerful Tip for Listeners:
16. Try this: take a random photo, upload it to your favorite AI app, and ask, “Tell me something I don’t know about this photo.” It’s a fun, hands-on way to experience AI’s potential.

Leadership in an AI world is still deeply human. It relies on building trust, fostering relationships, and staying self-aware as we navigate new tools and new ways of collaborating.

If this episode inspired you, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with AI in your own life in a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent way. Reflect on your own leadership culture and ask: does it foster trust, safety, and real collaboration? Share your experiences (or funny stories with that AI photo exercise!) with us—I'd love to hear how you’re becoming more HeartWired.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share HeartWired with leaders in your network who are ready to lead with both heart and intelligence in our rapidly changing world.

Thank you for listening—see you next episode!

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

In this first episode, I dive deep into why emotional intelligence (EQ) matters more than ever in an AI-driven world. Drawing from my own experience with leaders across industries, I share why the most successful leaders aren’t necessarily the most technically skilled—they’re the ones who can connect, respond thoughtfully, and lead with heart.

I break down the core dimensions of EQ—self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management—and show how these skills are not “soft,” but critical competencies for building thriving teams and organizations. I use metaphors and real-life examples, including coaching stories and recent insights from top AI experts, to illustrate how EQ can be intentionally nurtured and why it's vital not just for individual success but for our collective humanity.

What we talked about:

1. The Real Human Superpower: Why the ability to feel, connect, and empathize is irreplaceable, even in a world of rapidly advancing AI.
2. Understanding Emotional Intelligence: How emotional data shapes decision-making, leadership, and personal growth.
3. The Four Pillars of EQ: Practical insights into self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management—and how to grow these skills.
4. Neuroplasticity in Action: Discover how your brain rewires itself as you practice emotional intelligence, making you a stronger leader and a more connected human.
5. Technology vs. Humanity: Why AI can analyze, simulate, and optimize, but can’t truly embody empathy, trust, or creativity.
6. The Risks of Emotional Deskilling: How relying too much on algorithms for comfort or connection can blunt your growth and diminish team culture.
7. Leadership Stories: Personal coaching experiences and how real leaders overcame challenges by leaning into their EQ in tech-centric environments.
8. Inspired by Thought Leaders: Insights from Zach Cass, author of "The Next Renaissance: AI and the Expansion of Human Potential," and why the future demands we “Be Human.”
9. Practical Steps: Tips for pausing, reflecting, and choosing conscious connection over mindless scrolling or reacting.

If today’s conversation about emotionally intelligent leadership resonates with you, subscribe to HeartWired wherever you get your podcasts! In upcoming episodes, I’ll be interviewing leaders, executives, and thought pioneers who use AI in their work while fiercely protecting the human touch that defines great leadership.

Do you know someone who could use a reminder of their own human superpower? Share this episode—and let’s build a movement of heart-led innovators who shape the future with both intelligence and compassion.

Stay tuned for more stories, tools, and inspiration to help you lead with heart in an AI world. Thanks for joining me!

Subscribe, share, and join me on HeartWired—where your humanity is your greatest asset.

Mentioned in this episode:

HeartWired is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork

eWomenPodcastNetwork

Hosted by Dr. MJ Vignone, a PhD in Human and Organizational Development with more than 20 years of leadership and learning development experience, the show brings deep expertise and practical tools to leaders navigating today’s unprecedented challenges. Dr. MJ has held senior leadership roles in major banks, designed and delivered transformative leadership programs, and coached leaders at every level to succeed in business and flourish in life. Certified in multiple emotional intelligence frameworks, Dr. MJ understands how to translate research into strategies leaders can use immediately.

So why does emotional intelligence matter now more than ever? Studies consistently show that leaders with high EQ outperform those with equal technical skill but lower emotional intelligence. EQ is not a single ability—it’s a blend of self-awareness, empathy, communication, and resilience. These skills allow leaders to connect authentically, inspire trust, minimize burnout, and create cultures where people can thrive. In the age of AI, where machines can process data faster and more efficiently than we ever could, EQ is what keeps leadership relevant, human-centered, and impactful.

HeartWired explores big, timely questions:

1. Where do humans add irreplaceable value in the workplace?
2. How do we minimize stress and burnout while managing rapid change?
3. What impact will AI have on leaders, teams, and organizational culture?
4. How can neuroscience and psychology help us become stronger, more resilient leaders?
5. What does the next generation of leadership look like when personal skills are lacking?

Each episode features c-suite executives, middle managers, neuroscientists, and thought leaders who bring real-world strategies for navigating organizational challenges. Conversations go beyond surface-level advice and provide research-backed, actionable insights. Whether it’s managing organizational stress, leveraging neuroscience to improve performance, or leading through AI transformation, listeners will walk away with tools they can put into practice immediately.

HeartWired exists at the intersection of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the AI revolution. Whether you’re currently in a leadership position or a rising leader, this podcast will help you strengthen your leadership brand, build resilience in your teams, and discover how to create environments where both people and technology thrive.

This podcast is for leaders responsible for shaping organizational culture and outcomes. HeartWired provides the insights you need to guide your teams through rapid change while maintaining balance, vision, and humanity.

The rise of AI is extraordinary, exceeding expectations in both speed and integration into daily life. But no matter how advanced it becomes, AI cannot replicate empathy, creativity, or human connection. As Dr. MJ emphasizes, the future belongs to leaders who can blend the strengths of technology with the best of humanity. This podcast provides a blueprint for becoming that kind of leader—one who can guide organizations through uncertainty, inspire resilience, and create sustainable success.

Join us as we uncover the strategies, stories, and science behind emotionally intelligent leadership. Discover how to stay authentic, human, and compassionate while embracing the tools of tomorrow. Because in the end, the leaders who thrive in the AI world won’t just manage technology—they’ll connect people, purpose, and progress with heart.