How Emotional Intelligence Shapes Our Relationship With AI and Work

Welcome to HeartWired! I’m Dr. MJ, and today’s episode is packed with powerful insights for anyone curious (or a little apprehensive) about navigating the intersection of AI, leadership, and being authentically human in a tech-driven world. Hilary Bilbrey is not just an award-winning author and speaker; she’s a true thought leader in emotional intelligence, resilience, and authentic leadership. Hilary’s work especially her book The Authenticity Key challenges us all to deepen self-awareness, lead with integrity, and leverage technology as a tool for good, not as a replacement for meaningful human interaction. In this candid conversation, Hilary and I dive into the real effects AI is having on our personal and professional lives both the exciting opportunities and the fears it brings up. We talk about the “pleasing bias” in AI, the importance of asking machines for honest feedback (instead of just flattery!), and actionable strategies for keeping our core values at the center as we embrace new technologies. Key Topics & Takeaways: AI’s Built-in Bias to Please: Hilary breaks down why AI is designed to tell users what they want to hear, and how that can limit our growth unless we intentionally ask for challenge and critique. Prompting for Growth: Learn practical prompts to get AI to disagree with you, point out your blind spots, or play the role of “devil’s advocate” to strengthen your proposals, presentations, or ideas. Conversational AI: Hilary shares her real-world workflow using both voice and text with AI to brainstorm, plan, and iterate, whether she’s on a walk or at her desk. Self-Reflection & Capability Models: Discover how AI can serve as a tool for honest self-assessment and ongoing personal development. How AI Can Enhance Our Humanity: Together, we debunk myths about AI making us less relevant, and show how it actually frees us to focus on deeper relationships, real listening, and meaningful work. Authenticity in an AI World: We explore why you must know yourself your values, strengths, and leadership style before you can “train” any tool to reflect your true voice and aspirations. Overcoming Fear with Curiosity: Hear Hilary’s simple, “safe” ways to start exploring AI, from vacation itineraries to finding unique gifts, before working up to using it for business decisions and coaching. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend or colleague who’s curious about the future of work, AI, and emotional intelligence. Be sure to subscribe to HeartWired so you never miss an episode. And if you’re ready to embrace AI as a partner in your authentic leadership journey start small, stay curious, and trust yourself. Thanks again to Hilary Bilbrey for her wisdom. You can find more about her book The Authenticity Key wherever books are sold. Let’s keep leading with heart, one conversation at a time! — Dr. Mary Jean Vignone 00:00 Biased Feedback Loop in Tech 03:50 "Using AI for Critical Feedback" 09:42 "Reflections and Connection Pathways" 14:02 "AI Enhancing Human Connection" 15:30 "Evolution Through Heart and Fear" 19:19 "Self-Awareness Drives Emotional Intelligence" 22:48 "Bravery and Starting with AI" 26:50 "Curiosity Fuels Personal Growth"