Emotional intelligence isn’t a “soft skill” — it’s the leadership skill of 2025.

As Daniel Goleman put it:
 “Emotional intelligence is the sine qua non of leadership.”

In this week’s episode of The CARE Podcast, I break down why EQ matters now more than ever — especially as so many of our interactions are digital.

A manager told me recently:
 "I used to think my team needed more instructions. Turns out, they needed more connection."
One weekly question — “How’s your energy this week?” — changed everything.

Here are 3 ways leaders can build emotional intelligence today:

1️⃣ Name what you’re feeling.
Calm creates clarity.

2️⃣ Ask one caring question a day.
Connection beats control.

3️⃣ Use emotional labeling.
"It sounds like you’re frustrated — tell me more."

And through the lens of CARE:
Character owns emotions.
Attitude of Gratitude notices people.
Respect listens.
Enthusiasm grows when people feel seen.

🎙️ New episode is live now.
If you want your team to trust you more — start with understanding them better.

👇 What’s one EQ habit you’ve seen make a real difference in leadership?