In this episode of Mind the Machine, we sit down with executive coach Renita Kolhorn to explore why emotional intelligence is becoming more important than raw IQ for founders, leaders, and decision-makers navigating AI-driven change. Renita shares insights from her work with entrepreneurs, military special forces, and high-performing executives, breaking down how emotions influence behavior, decision-making, and leadership under pressure. She explains why emotions are often misunderstood, how survival triggers shape our reactions, and why discipline, awareness, and practice are essential leadership skills. We also dig into how AI changes the leadership landscape. As machines take over more analytical tasks, the uniquely human skills of emotional mastery, intuition, observation, and self-awareness become even more critical. This conversation challenges leaders to slow down, notice what is happening around them, and strengthen their sense of self in an increasingly automated world. If you are building, leading, or investing in the future of technology, this episode offers a grounded, practical look at how mastering emotions can unlock better decisions, stronger relationships, and more resilient leadership. Follow Mind the Machine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindthemachinepodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mindthemachinepodcast Website: https://findgood.tech/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/findgood-tech/ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and opening clip on emotions 00:45 Why emotional intelligence matters for modern leadership 01:43 Renita’s background: Juilliard, martial arts, and executive coaching 05:41 Discipline, focus, and deliberate practice 08:29 Emotional mastery and performance under pressure 10:30 “Emotions are just chemicals” explained 12:04 Managing emotions versus suppressing them 14:33 The FAST framework: survival triggers that drive behavior 17:30 Do you need to dig into the past to change behavior? 19:10 Practicing new leadership behaviors 22:00 Why EQ matters more than IQ in an AI-driven world 25:35 AI, decision-making, and the limits of data 28:11 Intuition versus ego and how to tell the difference 32:24 Slowing down to access intuition 35:18 Pattern recognition and discernment in leadership 38:07 AI, identity, and the need for a strong sense of self 41:20 Feedback, self-worth, and AI as a mirror 44:07 One practical habit leaders can start today 47:24 Closing thoughts and wrap-up