Employee engagement metrics have barely moved in over a decade, but what if we're measuring the wrong things?

Nikki sits down with Joshua Freedman, CEO of Six Seconds and author of the soon-to-drop “Emotion Rules”. Together, they go deep on why engagement isn’t about snacks in the breakroom or slick surveys. It’s emotional, and it’s human.

They unpack why “leave emotions at the door” might be the worst business advice ever, what true caring leadership looks like, and how love, trust, and boundaries create high-performing cultures where people actually want to show up.

If you’re ready to trade performative leadership for authentic connection, this episode is your roadmap. 🤲

 

Additional Resources:

Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn

Learn more about Six Seconds

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Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

 

Key Takeaways:

• Engagement is emotional, not just a dashboard metric.
• Emotional intelligence globally is in serious decline.
• Leaders shape culture through behavior, not slogans.
• Genuine care includes clear, compassionate boundaries.
• Emotions drive people, people drive performance.