The Walker Webcast Marc Brackett, Bestselling Author and Founding Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence
Sep 25, 2025
Willy talks with Marc Brackett, a pioneer in emotional intelligence and author of 'Permission to Feel.' They dive into how emotional intelligence can be democratized across various sectors. Marc shares practical tools for recognizing and regulating emotions, emphasizing the importance of facing rather than avoiding feelings. He contrasts anxiety and stress, explores co-regulation in leadership, and highlights the value of in-person communication for emotional discussions. Additionally, they discuss the impact of values in guiding emotional responses and the skills students need for a future with AI.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Emotions Are Actionable Data
- Emotions are data, not interference, and provide essential information for decisions and relationships.
- Valuing emotions allows us to use them as pathways to achieve goals rather than obstacles.
Regulate Responses, Not Feelings
- Don’t aim to eliminate unpleasant emotions; regulate responses when they are intense or interfering with goals.
- Replace maladaptive reactions with deliberate strategies like labeling and breathing to avoid regretful behavior.
Labeling Unlocks Better Responses
- Accurate emotional labeling is a foundational skill because most people cannot identify their specific feelings.
- Differentiating feelings (anxiety, stress, fear, pressure, overwhelm) unlocks effective responses.
