What does it mean to lead like a human in the middle of digital disruption, AI, and constant change? In this episode of The Shift Show, Rachel Bourne sits down with executive coach and bestselling author Adam Weber (Lead Like a Human) to uncover why listening (not just leading) is today’s ultimate leadership superpower.
Adam shares his journey from stressed-out founder to executive coach, highlighting practical ways leaders can stay centered, authentic, and calm under pressure. Together, we explore how emotional intelligence, presence, and intentionality help leaders cut through busyness, unlock innovation, and build trust.
You’ll learn why hidden expectations derail teams, how to set the right tone in meetings, and why Gen Z + AI disruption are reshaping what leadership means.
Key Takeaways:
Centered Leaders Create Calm in Chaos
Grounded routines (journaling, gratitude, intentional pauses) help leaders show up steady, even when disruption and pressure mount.
Listening Unlocks Innovation
The best solutions usually come from employees closest to the problems—leaders fail when they don’t create space to hear them.
Clarity Beats Busyness
Hidden expectations and undefined roles cause disengagement. Human-first leaders prioritize focus, clarity, and signal over noise.
Human Presence Is the Edge in Digital Disruption
In an era of AI, automation, and remote work, authentic presence and emotional intelligence are leadership skills technology can’t replace.
Generational Shifts Demand Human-Centered Leadership
Gen Z values flexibility, autonomy, and safety. Combined with AI-driven change, leaders must evolve toward trust, inclusion, and adaptability.
About Adam:
Adam Weber is an executive coach who helps leaders manage pressure, sift through competing inputs, and assert meaningful change while leading as their authentic selves.
You can reach Adam on LinkedIn or his website at www.adamweber.co
Chapter Markers:
00:01 — What is the biggest leadership failure?01:05 — How did Adam’s leadership journey begin?04:25 — What does inauthentic leadership look like?07:08 — What is centeredness in leadership?10:56 — Why do leaders need reflection and journaling?14:31 — How can leaders go slow to go fast?16:00 — What is “signal” vs. “noise” in leadership?18:16 — Why is listening a superpower for leaders?20:59 — How do leaders set the right tone in meetings?24:32 — How can leaders create safe environments?27:03 — What does bias look like in leadership rooms?30:28 — What does full presence look like in practice?35:08 — Why is middle management under pressure?37:33 — Where do leaders fail most often?41:32 — How do you handle exits with dignity?43:27 — How are Gen Z + AI shifting leadership?45:34 — What’s the apprenticeship gap in disruption?49:38 — Does AI change what it means to lead?52:03 — What’s the one thing leaders should do now?
The Shift Show Episodes Which Might Interest You:
Skills of the Future with Executive Coaches Patti O'Neal and Bonnie Maintlen
Adaptability the #1 Skill You Need with Ross Thornley
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Episode Keywords: leading like a human, digital disruption leadership, AI and leadership skills, future of work leaders, listening as leadership skill, centeredness, authentic leadership in AI era, psychological safety at work, emotional intelligence leadership, Gen Z leadership expectations, human-first leadership strategies, clarity vs busyness at work, executive coaching tips, executive presence, future-ready leadership
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