Emotional Intelligence: The Untapped Resource in Your Workplace with Michelle Howe

The quiet power brokers in your organization aren’t always who you think. Michelle J Howe, founder of Empath Evolution, reveals a startling truth on the Dead Pixels Society podcast: Roughly 25% of your workforce consists of highly empathic individuals who dramatically influence your company’s energy, culture, and success.

As Howe shares her transformation from structured accountant to empathic mentor, she uncovers the hidden dynamics playing out in workplaces everywhere. These empaths—people who can absorb and process others’ emotions—often excel in sales, leadership, and relationship-building roles. Yet without proper understanding and boundaries, they risk burnout, exhaustion, and ultimately leaving your organization.

“When you’re very empathic, you best beware,” Howe cautions, “because you’re going to need that mental health day.” She distinguishes between true empathy and those who use emotional intelligence manipulatively, offering practical guidance for identifying and nurturing empathic talent during interviews. Her insights challenge the dismissive notion that emotional intelligence is merely “touchy-feely” business speak, instead positioning it as a critical competitive advantage.

Howe discusses toxic workplace personalities and their outsized impact. “If companies recognize this is a lose-lose situation,” she explains, employees must be held accountable for the energy they bring to work daily. This responsibility extends to leaders, who set the emotional tone through their own behavior and communication style.