Why Emotional Intelligence Still Matters in the Age of AI

What does it mean to lead in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms? In this episode, Jeremy Williams, certified emotional intelligence practitioner and expert on collective intelligence, argues that how we work together is becoming even more critical than what we do. As generative AI automates more functions, Williams says emotional intelligence will define the teams—and leaders—that remain relevant.

We dig into the dangers of toxic positivity, the difference between cyborg leadership and “copy-paste” management, and how to operationalize emotional intelligence at scale. Jeremy also unpacks the idea of collective intelligence, why psychological safety is a business imperative, and how to future-proof your team’s humanity.

Topics Discussed:

• What emotional intelligence really means—and why AI can't replicate it
• The rise of collective intelligence and its strategic value
• How to spot toxic positivity and why it erodes trust
• Emotional reasoning vs. rational leadership
• “Copy-paste” management: the hidden risk in fast-moving orgs
• How to scale emotional intelligence without making it performative
• Preparing teams for ambiguity, volatility, and change
• How EQ is the new “why” in an AI-powered world

Resources:

• Follow Jeremy Williams on LinkedIn
• The Fluent Executive