5 Aug 2026
SE01 E31 - How AI, Engagement, and Psychological Safety Shape Modern Leadership | Elena Suaste
In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Elena Suaste, Director of Global Talent Engagement and Development at the Project Management Institute (PMI), where she leads global efforts across employee engagement, experience, and leadership development in a fully virtual organization.
Elena shares how organizations can embrace AI responsibly while strengthening trust, connection, and psychological safety. Drawing from her experience at a global certification institute, she explains how encouraging thoughtful AI use, critical thinking, and clear leadership expectations can drive engagement rather than fear. The conversation explores PMI’s leadership framework, the realities of remote work, and what it truly takes to develop confident, accountable leaders in today’s evolving workplace.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How organizations can encourage AI adoption without compromising integrity or trust
• Why critical thinking is a core leadership skill in the age of AI
• How psychological safety impacts engagement, innovation, and retention
• Practical ways leaders can build connection in fully remote teams
• The role of accountability, transparency, and human-centered leadership
• Essential skills emerging leaders need to grow into executive roles
Elena shows that engagement is not a one-time initiative. It is an ongoing commitment rooted in trust, clarity, and leadership behaviors that help people feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.
🔗 Connect with Elena Suaste:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connectwithelena/
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Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/
Listen to Interaction on these podcast platforms:
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The Interaction Podcast hosted by John Kandray dives into the evolving world of leadership and workplace culture. With a focus on inclusive leadership, psychological safety, resilience, and authentic connection, each episode brings you conversations with forward-thinking leaders and experts. Together, we explore practical strategies for creating workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. Whether you’re leading a team, shaping culture, or simply curious about the human side of high performance, this podcast offers insights to help you navigate change with confidence and impact.
