In this People First! episode, I sit down with my dear friend and fellow connection-evangelist Dr. Michelle K. Johnston — top executive coach, business professor, bestselling author, and now the voice behind The Seismic Shift in You.
We dig into the uncomfortable truth:
We’re more digitally connected than at any time in human history…
…and yet more lonely, isolated, anxious, and burnt out than ever before.
Michelle calls it a “crisis of disconnection” — one backed by global research, neuroscience, and the devastating health data shared by U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy.
In this episode we explore:
- Why connection is a biological need — as essential as food and water
- How hybrid work, AI, and phone addiction are accelerating a global loneliness epidemic
- The seven seismic shifts leaders must make — starting with shifting from what to who
- Why productivity without connection creates emptiness (Michelle’s newest mic-drop quote)
- How the calendar has become the biggest predictor of well-being
- The difference between communication and true connection
- Why leaders must intentionally design moments — not just meetings
- The wake-up call Michelle experienced when her daughter came home and said, “Mom, I haven’t seen you.”
If you’re feeling stretched thin, disconnected, or suspicious that the “new normal” doesn’t feel normal at all… this episode will give you grounding and a path forward.
Learn more:
michellekjohnston.com
The Seismic Shift in You now available everywhere books are sold.
What is PeopleFirst! with Morag Barrett?
Welcome to SkyeTeam's People First! In this series, we explore the people side of successful business and careers. We all have a story to share, a leadership journey that we are experiencing.
We'll be interviewing authors, business leaders, thought leaders, and people like you to uncover the latest ideas, resources, and tools to help you become more effective at work - and in life. As it turns out, the secret is cultivating winning relationships. Business is personal, and relationships matter!