How to Build a Human-Centered Workplace in the Age of AI with Dr. Edwin Mouriño

 The Tension Between Humanity and Technology

We are living in one of the most fascinating and challenging times in workplace history. Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, communicate, and make decisions. But as I explored in my recent conversation with Dr. Edwin Mouriño, Air Force veteran, author, and founder of Human Intelligent Workplace, the rise of AI brings a crucial question:

How do we stay human in the workplace when technology is everywhere?

The answer, as we discussed, is not to fear technology but to redefine our relationship with it.

What It Really Means to Be a Human-Centered Organization

During our conversation, Dr. Mouriño shared a powerful definition of what he calls a “Human Intelligent Workplace.” It is an organization where leaders model effective leadership behaviors, foster healthy culture, and create environments of psychological safety, engagement, and fulfillment.

In other words, being human-centered is not just a buzzword. It is a business strategy.

When people feel seen, safe, and supported, creativity flourishes. Teams collaborate better. Customers feel it too. And yes, the profits follow. But too often, organizations get this backward. They focus on profits first and people second, even though the research keeps proving the opposite is true.

AI Is Not the Enemy, Disconnection Is

AI is not the villain in this story. As Dr. Mouriño reminded us, every major technological leap from the PC to the internet has created both challenges and opportunities.

AI can help us work smarter, automate inefficiencies, and free up time for meaningful work. The danger is not in the tool itself, but in how we use it.

I will be honest. I had to relearn this lesson myself. I went on what I called a “ChatGPT fast.” I use AI every day in my brand strategy and content development work, but I started noticing my creativity slowing down. So, I went back to The Artist’s Way process and began writing three pages every morning by hand. The result was that my ideas started flowing again.

The key is balance. Just like any relationship, our relationship with technology needs healthy boundaries. AI can complement our work, but it cannot replace human connection, creativity, or empathy.

The Future of Leadership Is Human

Leaders today face a double challenge: adapting to new technologies while staying grounded in timeless human skills.

Empathy. Listening. Emotional intelligence.
These are not soft skills. They are strategic advantages.

As Dr. Mouriño said, before your title or your role, you are human. Leadership development that ignores this truth misses the point. Sending someone to a training does not make them a leader. Modeling compassion and connection every day does.

It is time to move beyond the “car wash” approach to leadership training, where we rinse off old habits but never change the environment that reinforces them. Instead, we need systems that reward authentic, people-first leadership.

Reframing DEI as Good Leadership

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation was about the current backlash against DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Dr. Mouriño’s insight was both realistic and hopeful. Many organizations have not abandoned inclusion. They have just rebranded it.

The truth is that inclusion is not optional. It is demographic reality.
We have an aging workforce, a multicultural generation entering corporate life, and global labor shortages that cannot be ignored.

You do not have to call it DEI to practice it. You just have to lead well.
Inclusive leadership is good leadership because it values people, adapts to change, and keeps organizations future-ready.

Staying Human as Consultants and Coaches

For those of us who work with organizations, this moment calls for courage and clarity.

We have to help our clients stay grounded in their values, even when the culture or legislation around them feels hostile. Sometimes that means reframing the language. Sometimes it means partnering with other leaders who refuse to back down.

But always, it means centering on what is true.
Healthy organizations start with healthy humans.

Next Steps

• Revisit your leadership approach: Reflect on how you are modeling empathy, authenticity, and humanity in your work.

• Audit your use of AI: Make sure technology complements your creativity, not replaces it.

• Reframe inclusion efforts: Keep people at the center by embedding belonging and respect into

About the guest: Dr. Edwin Mouriño, is an Air Force veteran, author, and leadership expert who helps organizations and leaders grow through emotional intelligence, DEI, and human-centered strategy. As founder of Human Intelligent (HI) Workplace, he combines decades of experience—from Fortune 100 consulting to academia—to empower teams to lead with purpose. His work bridges research and real-world impact, focusing on leadership development, organizational change, and building more human workplaces.

About me: Betsy Jordyn is a brand messaging strategist and business mentor for purpose-driven consultants and coaches. With a background in organizational development—including a consulting career with Disney—she helps experts clarify their unique value, position themselves strategically, and build businesses that deliver impact, income, and personal fulfillment. Connect with Betsy Jordyn to clarify your message, elevate your brand, and attract the clients you're meant to serve. Start here → https://www.betsyjordyn.com/services