In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben is joined by Eric Williamson, author of “How to Work with Jerks,” and an expert in emotional intelligence. Eric shares his personal journey from being a self-described “jerk” to becoming a coach who helps organizations reduce friction and improve relationships—leading to stronger, more innovative teams. Deb and Eric discuss how to lead remote teams with empathy and trust in today’s rapidly evolving work environment, reduce friction between IT and business teams to unlock smoother digital transformation, and explore the impact of AI and automation on leadership and workplace dynamics. Eric also introduces his LUV Method (Listen, Understand, Validate), offering a powerful strategy for building authentic relationships that drive collaboration and innovation. Additionally, they tackle generational challenges and share ways to empower Gen Z employees, turning potential friction into a strength for the organization. If you’re a leader aiming to foster a culture of innovation, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you elevate your team’s performance, create a jerk-free environment, and lead with confidence through change.

Eric Williamson is a leadership and emotional intelligence expert with over two decades of experience transforming workplace cultures. Known as “The Connector,” Eric helps organizations enhance productivity and morale through stronger interpersonal relationships. As the author of "How to Work with Jerks: Getting Stuff Done with People You Can’t Stand," he provides actionable strategies for navigating difficult workplace dynamics. Eric’s clients, including the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Connecticut College, and the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM), praise his engaging, down-to-earth style and his ability to inspire change. He frequently appears on NBC, FOX, and CBS, where he shares insights on leveraging emotional intelligence to lead in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Connect with Us: Eric Williamson on LinkedIn: Eric Williamson | LinkedIn Eric Williamson’s Website: Tailored Training Solutions | Eric Williamson Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahreuben/  TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io