In this episode, Christian Idiodi sits down with author and leadership coach Kate Leto to explore the power of emotional intelligence (EQ) in product management. They break down the critical human skills that set great product practitioners apart, and share tactics and strategies to develop them.

–

Today’s discussion unpacks:

• The four key competencies of EQ

• How high EQ accelerates a product career

• Signs of weak EQ

• The critical “inner and outer games”

• Building EQ using the “self-awareness trilogy”

• Why EQ matters more than ever in the age of AI

–

References:

• Dr Dan Siegel’s Hand Model of the Brain

• Emotional Self Control Probably Doesn't Mean What You Think

• Empathy is (an important) Part of Your Job as a Product Leader

• Hiring Product Managers: Using EQ to go beyond culture and skill

• What People (Still) Get Wrong About Emotional Intelligence

• What Got You Here Won’t Get You There

• What is Emotional Intelligence?

• Why Emotional Intelligence Is Important in Leadership

-

Where to find SVPG:

• SVPG’s Newest Book: TRANSFORMED

• More SVPG Books & Resources: Books | Articles | Workshops | Videos

–

Where to find Christian Idiodi:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cidiodi/

–

Where to find Kate Leto:

• Books & insights: https://www.kateleto.com/books-and-insights

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateleto/

–

Timestamps:

(00:44) The four key competencies of EQ

(04:18) Signs of weak EQ

(08:01) Starting with self-awareness

(10:33) Managing emotions in the workplace

(14:28) The role of empathy in leadership

(17:03) The link between EQ and influence

(21:19) A simple daily reflection tactic

(24:18) How to use “trusted critics” for growth

(25:24) The value of observational feedback

(27:28) Why you need “growth partners”

(29:10) Why high EQ gives you an edge in the AI era

(31:37) Outro

–

Disclaimer:

While this podcast is named “Product Therapy”, it is not hosted by licensed therapists or mental health professionals, and it is in no way a substitute for professional mental health services. We recognize the importance of mental well-being and encourage anyone facing personal difficulties to seek support from qualified professionals. See https://findahelpline.com/

–

Production:

Production by ⁠supermix.io