Magic in the Room Podcast #40: Unlocking EQ – Foundations of Emotional Intelligence

January 19, 2021

In Magic in the Room Episode #40, Luke, Chris, and Hannah explore the impact of emotion on our behavior and performance and why emotional intelligence matters for leaders.

 

 

Our next discovery along the  EQ spectrum  is emotional intelligence. What does emotional intelligence mean to you, and why is it essential for leaders today? For Luke, it’s about being intentional about how people perceive him. It’s also about the words he uses, how he shows up, and ensuring that his behavior aligns with his intent. Ultimately, it’s intentionality and purposefulness in how we connect with others.

 

There is also a strong link between emotion and learning. In the previous episode of this podcast, we talked about this notion of personal ownership. When change is thrust upon us, we can choose to get resentful. Or we can choose to take a learning attitude with a growth mindset approaching things with a growth mindset.

 

We are living in a team of continuous learning right now. Our health, safety, livelihoods are threatened. It has encouraged people to lean into learning in ways that maybe they hadn’t before. It’s now critical that leaders create an environment in which people can learn and grow and be their best selves. Hannah discusses why she believes this is one of the most critical reasons emotional intelligence matters in leadership.

 

Hannah also reflects on how intelligence was traditionally measured through IQ. But in more recent years, it’s becoming clear through the research that there are many types of intelligence. Some people have very high levels of emotional intelligence, and studies show how it impacts leadership and how far you go in an organization.

 

Your technical knowledge and expertise will get you so far. But it’s your level of emotional intelligence that will drive take your career to new heights. Leaders must have self-awareness regarding their emotional states and others around them. When we recognize what others are feeling, it enables us to support and provide a structure to help others manage their emotional states.

 

Chris discusses how the world has changed now that we no longer have hierarchical instruction. People question their CEOs, president, and governor in ways that they never did 70 years ago. By the same token, groups are allowed to exist today that could not have existed seven years ago, and we all accept this evolution is a big step forward in the name of progress.

 

However, it has created an onus on us as individuals to develop a purpose and put ourselves in shared belief systems and communities to contribute and support the people around us. The journey of emotional intelligence involves becoming aware of how you present to others and how people leave your presence, and what feeling they take away.

 

You can also explore other podcast interviews in the  EQ spectrum. We also invite you to share what emotional intelligence means to you and your business. Share your experiences and insights by messaging Chris, Hannah, and Luke at  info@purposeandperformancegroup.com.

Magic in the Room #194: NNAHRA Interview

November 4, 2025
In this episode of "Magic in the Room," Chris interviews board members from the National Native American Human Resources Association (NNAHRA) discussing the power of purpose-driven leadership within tribal organizations. Recorded at the NNAHRA annual conference, they explore themes like courage, vulnerability, accountability, community service, and fostering environments where all employees feel valued and able to contribute. They share how NNAHRA builds a supportive professional network for tribal HR leaders, encourages alignment between individual roles and tribal purpose, and creates space for courageous conversations across governance and enterprise structures. They also discuss future initiatives, including new certifications and the 2026 conference at the Hilton Village in Hawaii. The overarching message: lead with purpose, support one another, and build cultures rooted in respect, courage, and shared responsibility.

Magic in the Room #193: TribalHub CTTP Program Launch

By Sarah Whitfield • August 5, 2025
In this episode of "Magic in the Room," Luke Freeman sits down with Mike Day, founder and CEO of Tribal Hub. This episode explores the rapidly evolving landscape of tribal technology leadership, focusing on unique challenges and opportunities in tribal enterprises. They unveil the new Certified Tribal Technology Practitioner program, designed to close skill gaps in both technical proficiency and essential soft skills for aspiring and seasoned technology leaders in tribal contexts. Hear insights on building effective teams, coaching, strategic communication, and the importance of understanding tribal culture, sovereignty, and self-sufficiency. Learn how this hands-on certification, from industry assessment to personal development plans and one-on-one coaching, aims to empower leaders to drive transformational change in their organizations. Discover more about the inaugural program at tribalhub.com and why investing in people is key to sustaining vibrant tribal communities.
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