The Secret Ingredient of High-Performing Teams | Vanessa Druskat
Description
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
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
Links
The Emotionally Intelligent Team
Join the Behavioral Grooves community
Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube
Musical Links
John Prine - In Spite of Ourselves
United States
