Bio

Duena Blomstrom is the author of “Emotional Banking”, “People Before Tech: The Importance of Psychological Safety and Teamwork in the Digital Age” and the upcoming “Tech-Led Culture”. Duena created the concept of “Human Debt” and is advising the world’s top executives and companies on their people strategy. She is an international keynote speaker, top technology influencer with over 250.000 followers, and the co-founder of PeopleNotTech, a company offering a human work platform that increases EQ and the Well-being of Teams.

Speaking Topics

AI or EI? – Prepare for the 5th Industrial Revolution

As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms industries, Duena asks a critical question: What role will emotional intelligence (EI) play in this technological revolution? This talk explores the synergy between AI and EI, advocating for a future where human emotions and psychological safety are just as important as technological advancements. Duena highlights the importance of leaders fostering emotional intelligence and building human-centric teams as we enter the 5th Industrial Revolution.

o   Key themes: Artificial Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence, Future of Work, Leadership in Tech

o   Target Audience: Tech Leaders, Business Professionals, Students, Innovation Executives, HR Managers, Entrepreneurs

Flash EQ and Servant Leadership

In today’s world of fast technology, volatility and ambiguity the workplace changed. Most of what we do has to be fast and it has to be Agile. Antiquated leadership styles that were relying on command and control are no longer fit for purpose in particular as now employees are rarely in the office where managers can have a line of sight and micromanage. Instead, leading is all about empathy, kindness, positivity, and a genuine need to help.

Enter “servant leadership” defined as the type of inspirational leadership that galvanizes people around purpose and helps them be happier and more efficient by removing their blockers and nurturing their well-being. This is not an easy shift and it is a tall ask of any manager that spent most of their career in a different reality so leaders find themselves unequipped.

The main skill that is missing is having a high EQ. “EI” is defined as Emotional Intelligence - the ability people have to understand their emotions and the emotions of others. Just as theoretical intelligence is characterized by IQ, so is emotional intelligence characterized by EQ, and leaders in particular must do all they can to get a higher score so that it aids them in the pursuit of becoming servant leaders.

This masterclass will offer participants a good theoretical stand to start on the EQ work alongside a series of hacks and tips for instantly increasing their empathy, their communication abilities, and their capability as servant leaders in the Agile environment of the future.

Human and Tech Debt: Untangling the Connection for High Performance

In this keynote, Duena introduces the concept of "Human Debt"—the long-term cost that companies accrue when they fail to focus on the psychological well-being and development of their employees. She explores how organizations often focus solely on "Tech Debt," neglecting the human side of the equation. Through compelling data, storytelling, and actionable insights, Duena demonstrates how balancing both Human and Tech Debt can lead to more innovative, agile, and resilient organizations.

o   Key themes: Psychological Safety, Digital Transformation, Emotional Intelligence in Leadership, Agile Culture

o   Target Audience: CEOs, CTOs, HR Leaders, Tech & Innovation Executives

o   Soundbite on Human Debt from Radio Interview: Listen here

Tales of a NeuroSpicy Leader: Neurodiversity as a Catalyst for Passion and Innovation

In this highly personal and thought-provoking keynote, Duena builds on her podcast “NeuroSpicyAtWork” and shares her journey as a NeuroSpicy (neurodivergent) leader in the business and tech world. This talk focuses on how neurodiversity can foster innovation and creativity within organizations. Duena offers practical advice for companies looking to embrace neurodiverse talent and create psychologically safe environments where every team member can thrive.

o   Key themes: Neurodiversity, Innovation, Inclusive Leadership, Culture Transformation

o   Target Audience: CxO, Leaders, HR Professionals, Diversity and Inclusion Professionals, Team Leaders, Organizational Psychologists