Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Communication in Leadership with Maria Rush

Leadership mentor Maria Rush shares how emotional intelligence, connection, and clear communication can reshape modern leadership. She reveals why traditional 'command and control' approaches no longer work, why deeper connection, vulnerability, and emotional awareness matter more than ever, and how expanding our emotional vocabulary can transform both professional and personal relationships.

Key Takeaways

• Today’s leadership needs are changing: many people feel disconnected in their relationships - at work, at home, and with partners. Maria sees a strong desire for more emotionally intelligent, people-centred leadership.
• A shift away from old models of authority: traditional 'do as you're told' leadership no longer resonates. People now seek inclusion, trust, and a sense of being valued.
• Emotional vocabulary is a language of its own: Maria highlights the need to expand our emotional vocabulary to express needs clearly. She even created word lists in English and later Swedish to better articulate feelings.

About Maria Rush

For the past 25 years Maria has worked as a leadership mentor, entrepreneur, and an international employee in state organisations and private businesses promoting self-leadership, emotional intelligence, and solution-focused communication.

• Maria's website: mariarush.co.uk
• Women Don't Rush podcast on IG: @womendontrushpodcast
• Offer for this podcast's listeners: Maria is offering you all, my lovely listeners, a 15% discount on her online group programme starting in April called The Connected Leadership Programme: https://www.mariarush.co.uk/the-connected-leadership-programme
• Use discount code WWL15 to claim your 15% off. Valid till 13th April 2026.

About Sonia Kampshoff

Sonia is a translator turned multilingual digital marketer specialising in paid media, and now also a podcaster. Growing up bilingual, languages have been a constant in her life. In 2025 she launched a podcast where together with her guests she explores the huge variety of jobs and career opportunities open to people with language skills. She is available to speak on podcasts and stages about marketing, languages, work and podcasting.

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workingwithlanguages
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniakampshoff/
• Website: https://moreperfect.digital/