Christie Smith on How to Embrace Human-Powered Leadership
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
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What if the greatest disruption in business isn't AI—it's a crisis of human connection? What if the leadership skills we once dismissed as "soft" are now the most essential powers for thriving in a fractured, fast-changing world?
That's exactly what today's guest, Dr. Christie Smith, unpacks in her groundbreaking new book Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership.
Christie is a globally respected leadership advisor, former managing principal at Deloitte, and has worked with iconic companies like Apple, Accenture, and more. Her insights have been featured in Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, and Forbes—and today, she brings her powerful perspective to Passion Struck.
Conversation Topics
In this conversation, we explore how to lead with intentionality, empathy, and authentic power—even in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We dig into:
- Why "soft skills" are actually power skills—and how to develop them
- How distributed teams and AI are challenging everything we know about leadership
- The new pillars of human-centered organizations: trust, well-being, and psychological safety
- How to create environments where people truly matter—and thrive because of it
Christie doesn't just talk about theory—she brings real-world strategies for building purpose-driven cultures that adapt, inspire, and endure.
Connect with Dr. Christie Smith
Next on Passion Struck
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.
For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.
Raw Description
<p>What if the greatest disruption in business isn’t AI—it's a crisis of human connection? What if the leadership skills we once dismissed as “soft” are now the most <i>essential</i> powers for thriving in a fractured, fast-changing world?</p><p>That’s exactly what today’s guest, <strong>Dr. Christie Smith</strong>, unpacks in her groundbreaking new book <a href="https://amzn.to/3FQS5ma" target="_blank"><i>Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership</i>.</a></p><p>Christie is a globally respected leadership advisor, former managing principal at Deloitte, and has worked with iconic companies like Apple, Accenture, and more. Her insights have been featured in <i>Harvard Business Review</i>, <i>The New York Times</i>, and <i>Forbes</i>—and today, she brings her powerful perspective to <i>Passion Struck</i>.</p><p>Full Shownotes here: <a href="https://passionstruck.com/christie-smith-embrace-human-powered-leadership/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/christie-smith-embrace-human-powered-leadership/</a></p><p>In this conversation, we explore how to lead with <i>intentionality, empathy,</i> and <i>authentic power</i>—even in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We dig into:</p><ul> <li>Why “soft skills” are actually <i>power skills</i>—and how to develop them</li> <li>How distributed teams and AI are challenging everything we know about leadership</li> <li>The new pillars of <i>human-centered organizations</i>: trust, well-being, and psychological safety</li> <li>How to create environments where <i>people truly matter</i>—and thrive because of it</li> </ul><p>Christie doesn't just talk about theory—she brings real-world strategies for building purpose-driven cultures that adapt, inspire, and endure.</p><p>Connect with Dr. Christie Smith: <a href="https://www.christiesmith.phd/" target="_blank">https://www.christiesmith.phd/</a></p><p><strong>Sponsors:</strong></p><ul> <li> <strong>Factor Meals:</strong> <a href="http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off" target="_blank">http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off</a> and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF”</li> <li> <strong>Rosetta Stone:</strong> Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”</li> <li> <strong>Prolon:</strong> Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”</li> <li> <strong>Mint Mobile:</strong> Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”</li> <li> <strong>Hims:</strong> Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.</li> <li> <strong>Quince:</strong> Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION</li> </ul><p><strong>Next on </strong><i><strong>Passion Struck</strong></i><strong>:</strong><br>In the next episode of <i>Passion Struck</i>, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.</p><p>For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit <strong>Passion Struck Deals</strong>.</p><p><strong>Join the Passion Struck Community!</strong><br>Sign up for the <i>Live Intentionally</i> newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up <strong>here</strong>.</p><p><strong>Speaking Engagements & Workshops</strong><br>Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/" target="_blank"><strong>johnrmiles.com/speaking</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Episode Starter Packs</strong><br>With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated <strong>Episode Starter Packs</strong> based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at <a href="https://passionstruck.com/starterpacks/" target="_blank"><strong>passionstruck.com/starterpacks</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Catch More of </strong><i><strong>Passion Struck</strong></i><strong>:</strong></p><ul> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/4-powerful-trust-building-exercises/" target="_blank">My solo episode on 4 Powerful Trust-Building Exercises for Strong Teams and Relationships</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/gabriella-rosen-kellerman-on-future-of-work/" target="_blank">Can't miss my episode with Gabriella Rosen Kellerman on Thriving in the Future of Work</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/ethan-mollick-the-impact-of-ai-on-life-and-work/" target="_blank">My episode with Ethan Mollick on the Impact of AI on Life and Work</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/morgan-housel-use-the-past-to-forge-the-future/" target="_blank">Catch my interview with Morgan Housel on How to Use the Past Wisely to Forge the Future</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/jacob-morgan-leading-with-vulnerability/" target="_blank">Listen to my interview with Jacob Morgan on the Vital Power of Leading With Vulnerability</a></li> </ul><p>If you liked the show, please <strong>leave us a review</strong>—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.</p><p><strong>How to Connect with John:</strong></p><ul> <li>Connect with John on <strong>Twitter</strong> at <a href="https://twitter.com/John_RMiles" target="_blank">@John_RMiles</a> </li> <li>Follow him on <strong>Instagram</strong> at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles/" target="_blank">@John_R_Miles</a> </li> <li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/3d18f7e7-d47a-4a3e-99f4-a2a73f71a28d/#" target="_blank"><strong>main YouTube Channel</strong></a> and to our <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/3d18f7e7-d47a-4a3e-99f4-a2a73f71a28d/#" target="_blank"><strong>YouTube Clips Channel</strong></a> </li> <li>For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/" target="_blank">John’s website</a> </li> </ul><p><strong>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck?</strong> Take our <strong>20-question quiz</strong> on <a href="https://passionstruck.com/" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> and find out today!</p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>
Show Notes
What if the greatest disruption in business isn't AI—it's a crisis of human connection? What if the leadership skills we once dismissed as "soft" are now the most essential powers for thriving in a fractured, fast-changing world?
That's exactly what today's guest, Dr. Christie Smith, unpacks in her groundbreaking new book Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership.
Christie is a globally respected leadership advisor, former managing principal at Deloitte, and has worked with iconic companies like Apple, Accenture, and more. Her insights have been featured in Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, and Forbes—and today, she brings her powerful perspective to Passion Struck.
Conversation Topics
In this conversation, we explore how to lead with intentionality, empathy, and authentic power—even in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We dig into:
- Why "soft skills" are actually power skills—and how to develop them
- How distributed teams and AI are challenging everything we know about leadership
- The new pillars of human-centered organizations: trust, well-being, and psychological safety
- How to create environments where people truly matter—and thrive because of it
Christie doesn't just talk about theory—she brings real-world strategies for building purpose-driven cultures that adapt, inspire, and endure.
Connect with Dr. Christie Smith
Next on Passion Struck
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.
For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.
Raw Description
<p>What if the greatest disruption in business isn’t AI—it's a crisis of human connection? What if the leadership skills we once dismissed as “soft” are now the most <i>essential</i> powers for thriving in a fractured, fast-changing world?</p><p>That’s exactly what today’s guest, <strong>Dr. Christie Smith</strong>, unpacks in her groundbreaking new book <a href="https://amzn.to/3FQS5ma" target="_blank"><i>Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership</i>.</a></p><p>Christie is a globally respected leadership advisor, former managing principal at Deloitte, and has worked with iconic companies like Apple, Accenture, and more. Her insights have been featured in <i>Harvard Business Review</i>, <i>The New York Times</i>, and <i>Forbes</i>—and today, she brings her powerful perspective to <i>Passion Struck</i>.</p><p>Full Shownotes here: <a href="https://passionstruck.com/christie-smith-embrace-human-powered-leadership/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/christie-smith-embrace-human-powered-leadership/</a></p><p>In this conversation, we explore how to lead with <i>intentionality, empathy,</i> and <i>authentic power</i>—even in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We dig into:</p><ul> <li>Why “soft skills” are actually <i>power skills</i>—and how to develop them</li> <li>How distributed teams and AI are challenging everything we know about leadership</li> <li>The new pillars of <i>human-centered organizations</i>: trust, well-being, and psychological safety</li> <li>How to create environments where <i>people truly matter</i>—and thrive because of it</li> </ul><p>Christie doesn't just talk about theory—she brings real-world strategies for building purpose-driven cultures that adapt, inspire, and endure.</p><p>Connect with Dr. Christie Smith: <a href="https://www.christiesmith.phd/" target="_blank">https://www.christiesmith.phd/</a></p><p><strong>Sponsors:</strong></p><ul> <li> <strong>Factor Meals:</strong> <a href="http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off" target="_blank">http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off</a> and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF”</li> <li> <strong>Rosetta Stone:</strong> Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”</li> <li> <strong>Prolon:</strong> Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”</li> <li> <strong>Mint Mobile:</strong> Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”</li> <li> <strong>Hims:</strong> Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.</li> <li> <strong>Quince:</strong> Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION</li> </ul><p><strong>Next on </strong><i><strong>Passion Struck</strong></i><strong>:</strong><br>In the next episode of <i>Passion Struck</i>, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.</p><p>For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit <strong>Passion Struck Deals</strong>.</p><p><strong>Join the Passion Struck Community!</strong><br>Sign up for the <i>Live Intentionally</i> newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up <strong>here</strong>.</p><p><strong>Speaking Engagements & Workshops</strong><br>Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/" target="_blank"><strong>johnrmiles.com/speaking</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Episode Starter Packs</strong><br>With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated <strong>Episode Starter Packs</strong> based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at <a href="https://passionstruck.com/starterpacks/" target="_blank"><strong>passionstruck.com/starterpacks</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Catch More of </strong><i><strong>Passion Struck</strong></i><strong>:</strong></p><ul> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/4-powerful-trust-building-exercises/" target="_blank">My solo episode on 4 Powerful Trust-Building Exercises for Strong Teams and Relationships</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/gabriella-rosen-kellerman-on-future-of-work/" target="_blank">Can't miss my episode with Gabriella Rosen Kellerman on Thriving in the Future of Work</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/ethan-mollick-the-impact-of-ai-on-life-and-work/" target="_blank">My episode with Ethan Mollick on the Impact of AI on Life and Work</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/morgan-housel-use-the-past-to-forge-the-future/" target="_blank">Catch my interview with Morgan Housel on How to Use the Past Wisely to Forge the Future</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/jacob-morgan-leading-with-vulnerability/" target="_blank">Listen to my interview with Jacob Morgan on the Vital Power of Leading With Vulnerability</a></li> </ul><p>If you liked the show, please <strong>leave us a review</strong>—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.</p><p><strong>How to Connect with John:</strong></p><ul> <li>Connect with John on <strong>Twitter</strong> at <a href="https://twitter.com/John_RMiles" target="_blank">@John_RMiles</a> </li> <li>Follow him on <strong>Instagram</strong> at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles/" target="_blank">@John_R_Miles</a> </li> <li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/3d18f7e7-d47a-4a3e-99f4-a2a73f71a28d/#" target="_blank"><strong>main YouTube Channel</strong></a> and to our <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/3d18f7e7-d47a-4a3e-99f4-a2a73f71a28d/#" target="_blank"><strong>YouTube Clips Channel</strong></a> </li> <li>For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/" target="_blank">John’s website</a> </li> </ul><p><strong>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck?</strong> Take our <strong>20-question quiz</strong> on <a href="https://passionstruck.com/" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> and find out today!</p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>