AI Can’t Save You in the Conference Room (Or on a Date) | Social Intelligence Briefing
The Art of Charm
People follow those who make them feel understood
AJ and Johnny describe neuroscience: perceived safety precedes reasoning and influences openness to ideas.
AJ and Johnny reveal the single most important human skill to master in 2026 — and why it’s the one AI will never replace: validation.
As automation takes over the transactional side of work, the moments that matter most — the hallway conversation, the tense meeting, the post-date silence — depend on your ability to make people feel understood. This episode breaks down why being right often backfires, how “fixing” kills influence and attraction, and why validation is the real unlock for leadership, connection, and persuasion in the AI era.
They share real-world examples from clients in tech, dating, and leadership, showing how one small shift in sequencing — acknowledging before advising — transforms every interaction.
Chapters:
00:00 – Why your biggest moments now matter more than ever
03:00 – AI can’t replace the human layer of influence
05:00 – People move toward those who make them feel understood
07:00 – Why being right makes things worse
09:00 – How “fixing” kills attraction and trust
11:00 – The validation sequence: acknowledge before advise
13:00 – Real examples from work, dating, and daily life
16:00 – The neuroscience of feeling safe and seen
18:00 – Validation: the leadership skill AI can’t automate
20:00 – The 3-step validation protocol
AI, emotional intelligence, validation, leadership, communication, influence, connection, charisma, psychology, empathy, attraction
A Word From Our Sponsors
Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com
Check out Johnny on Instagram @Social_Intell or on Tiktok @social_intel
The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back.
Download Stuff for free today by going to trystuff.app or by searching for “Stuff” in the App Store. You can get 50% off your first year of Extra Stuff by using code CHARM at checkout.
Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CHARM at monarch.com in your browser for HALF OFF your first year.
Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns.
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm.
Need to hire top talent—fast? Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm.
This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm
Save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SELECTQUOTE.COM/CHARM TODAY to get started
Curious about your influence level?
Get your Influence Index Score today!
Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence.
Check in with AJ and Johnny!
AJ on LinkedIn
Johnny on LinkedIn
AJ on Instagram
Johnny on Instagram
The Art of Charm on Instagram
The Art of Charm on YouTube
The Art of Charm on TikTok
AI, emotional intelligence, validation, leadership, communication, influence, connection, charisma, psychology, empathy, attraction
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The AI-powered Podcast Player
