The Secret Ingredient of High-Performing Teams | Vanessa Druskat

Individual emotional intelligence matters — but teams thrive when EI is built together, not carried by a few well-developed individuals. In this episode, Vanessa Druskat explains why high-performing groups rely on shared norms that create psychological safety, trust, and collaboration. We talk through her research-backed framework for turning work groups into emotionally intelligent teams, how leaders can shape better environments, and why optimism is a surprisingly powerful tool for motivation and change.

Topics

[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Vanessa Druskat

[7:08] What is Team Emotional Intelligence?

[13:02] Leader Behavior vs Team Norms

[18:24] The Discovery of “the Nine Norms”

[26:34] Engaging Stakeholders Beyond the Team

[33:19] Belonging Needs and Conformity

[42:01] Optimism As a Leadership Tool

[47:21] Coaching for Hope vs Problems

[50:42] Desert Island Music

[54:14] Grooving Session: A+ Teams vs A+ Individuals

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Musical Links

Van Morrison - Days Like This

John Prine - In Spite of Ourselves