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No More Jerk Bosses | Serious Business Conference | January 2025

In this keynote speech from the Serious Business Conference, delivered at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans in January 2025, Dr. Michelle K. Johnston challenges the outdated, control-driven leadership model that no longer works in today’s workplace.

In a world defined by Burnout, disengagement, and rapid change, real leadership is no longer about authority—it’s about connection. How leaders show up. How they listen. How people feel after interacting with them.
Drawing from decades of research, executive Coaching, and real-world leadership experience, Michelle shares why connection is not “soft”—it’s strategic—and how intentional, human-centered leadership drives trust, engagement, and results.

This keynote is for leaders who:
• Feel the old playbook isn’t working anymore
• Lead multigenerational or evolving teams
• Want results and sustainable cultures
• Know people—not pressure—drive performance

🎙️ Listen to The Seismic Shift Podcast
📘 Explore Michelle’s books: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Michelle+K.+Johnston&i=audible&ref=dp_byline_sr_audible_1
🌐 Visit michellekjohnston.com

Michelle Johnston Clifton Morvant Professor of Business

Dr. Michelle K. Johnston is a management professor, executive coach, and leadership expert who is the Clifton A. Morvant Distinguished Professor in Business at Loyola University New Orleans.

Her first book, The Seismic Shift in Leadership, The Seismic Shift in Leadership: How to Thrive in a New Era of Connection, is now an Amazon bestseller.

She was recently named A Woman of the Year by CityBusiness and one of the most influential New Orleanians.

Michelle is a celebrated keynote speaker presenting at conferences and events nationwide. She received her Ph.D. in Communication from Louisiana State University and was named to the prestigious 100 Coaches Group, which consists of the top executive coaches worldwide.
For speaking engagements, media, and more, visit michellekjohnston.com.