Dr. Michelle K. Johnston is a bestselling author, top executive coach, and leadership professor at Loyola University New Orleans who specializes in connection-driven leadership. She’s the author of The Seismic Shift in Leadership and the new book The Seismic Shift in You, co-written with legendary coach Marshall Goldsmith, where she unpacks seven powerful shifts leaders must make to deepen connection and drive results in an AI-driven world.​

On this episode we talk about:

Michelle’s first “real” dollar, early jobs at Fuddruckers and a cookie shop, and what they taught her about people and money

Why high-volume, people-facing jobs (restaurants, sales, customer service) are underrated training grounds for success

The core ideas behind The Seismic Shift in Leadership and The Seismic Shift in You

How AI and digital overload are changing leadership—and why “productivity without connection equals emptiness”

The loneliness epidemic, why entrepreneurs (especially men) are so isolated, and how to intentionally build community

Practical ways leaders can rewire meetings, calendars, and priorities around connection

The concept of “connection dinners” and why entrepreneurs should curate rooms where people actually get real

Top 3 Takeaways

Connection is the new competitive advantage. Old-school command-and-control leadership no longer works; leaders who build cultures of connection outperform by creating trust, psychological safety, and real loyalty.​

You must connect with yourself first. If your own cup is empty—no self-care, no boundaries, no time on your calendar for what matters—you won’t have the energy or presence to build meaningful relationships at work or at home.​

Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be lonely. By intentionally building community—through curated spaces, small-group dinners, and regular in-person connection—entrepreneurs can combat isolation and create the kind of support that fuels both impact and income.​

Notable Quotes

"Productivity without connection equals emptiness."

"You’re not good at connecting with anybody unless you first prioritize yourself."

"If your most important relationships aren’t on your calendar, they’re not really your priorities."

Connect with Dr. Michelle Johnston:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-johnston-0264b5b​

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellekjohnston 

Website: https://michellekjohnston.com​

Podcast: The Seismic Shift with Michelle K. Johnston – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-seismic-shift-with-michelle-k-johnston/id1625361801​

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