Dr. Christie Smith: How Human-Powered Leadership Can Thrive in the Age of A.I.

Episode recap:

Marcel and Dr. Christie Smith discuss the challenges of integrating technology, generational differences, and shifting demographics in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of human-centered leadership. They also highlight the need for a commitment to development and learning in organizations, the importance of human intelligence in a digital age, and the impact of the pandemic on social interactions and gender equality in the workplace. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of emotional maturity in leadership, the need for leading with love and cultivating insatiable curiosity, and the importance of employee well-being in the workplace.

Bio:

Dr. Christie Smith is a voice in human-centered leadership and organizational strategy. Known as “The Humanity Expert,” Smith spent decades guiding Fortune 500 execs during her time at Apple, Deloitte, and Accenture through the complexities of modern leadership. She’s the co-author of ESSENTIAL: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership. Smith is the founder of The Humanity Studio, a research and advisory institute dedicated to improving the way we live by revolutionizing the way we work. 

Quotes:

• "We are at a unique time in history as leaders with this confluence of issues that we are meant to solve, not only within our organizations, but within the communities in which those organizations reside."
• "Leadership is feeling paralyzed. Only 25% of leaders are thinking of doing something differently, and a single digit percentage are actually positioning to do something different within their organizations."

 

Takeaways:

• Schedule weekly 30-minute "curiosity conversations" with team members where you ask open-ended questions about their work, challenges, and aspirations - without digital distractions.
• Audit your organization's skill development programs: Are you truly investing in upskilling employees, or just paying lip service? Create a concrete plan to close skill gaps across generations.
• Practice emotional agility by preparing mentally before each meeting, understanding the unique context and emotional needs of the participants - treat each interaction as a distinct human experience. 

Timestamps:

[00:04] Introduction

[03:06] Growing Up in a Competitive Family Shaped My Leadership

[05:11] The Biggest Challenges Leaders Face (And How to Fix Them)

[11:42] Why Human Intelligence Still Beats AI in Leadership

[18:00] The Truth About Generational Gaps in the Workplace

[27:30] How the Pandemic Set Women in Leadership Back $2 Trillion

[35:05] Workplace Well-Being Isn’t Just Perks—Here’s What Matters

[45:08] The #1 Skill Every Manager Needs to Support Their Team

[47:29] These Three Leadership Skills Matter More Than Ever

[51:59] The Simple Leadership Shift That Changes Everything

 

Conclusion:

Real success comes from valuing employees as people, not just workers. When companies support their growth, well-being, and sense of purpose, they create stronger, more motivated teams. A workplace that fosters meaningful development and genuine connection leads to better outcomes than one focused only on output. Prioritizing people in this way doesn’t just improve morale—it builds lasting success for both individuals and the organization.

 

Links/Resources:

The Humanity Studio - https://thehumanitystudio.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiesmithphd/

Book -

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