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Carolyn Stern

Speaker Featured

Vancouver, BC, Canada

EQ Expert & Corporate Trainer: Teaching emotional intelligence, leadership, and team building in the workplace

Carolyn Stern runs a successful executive leadership development and emotional intelligence training firm.  She has trained over 60,000 business leaders across the continent in highly regarded corporations including PayPal, UPS, RBC, Intuit and more.  Her emotional intelligence courses and modules have been adopted by top universities.  A certified Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development Expert, Carolyn is on a crusade to ensure emotional intelligence skills are integrated worldwide to reduce stress, anxiety, and insecurity, in the modern work environment.

Keynote Speeches

Virtual Keynotes & Webinars
Contact us for more information about this speaker & their virtual presentations. Click here for some of the most popular formats for virtual events.
The Emotionally Strong Leader = EI + Leadership

Itʼs time to debunk the myth that sharing our emotions and being honest about how we are feeling is a sign of weakness. Itʼs time for our corporate world to stop encouraging people to stuff down their feelings while at work. Itʼs time to make friends with our feelings. Because if we stop being so scared of our emotions and look for the wisdom they provide us, we can change how we connect, communicate, and lead.

In this keynote, you will start to learn the emotional skills and mental strategies needed to be stronger and more intelligent than your feelings and to help others learn to explore their emotions. Emotions should not be feared but celebrated. A wealth of amazing possibilities are available if we learn to harness the superpower of our emotions.

Audience Takeaways

  • Recognize the risks of ignoring emotions in the workplace.
  • Understand why emotions matter and how to overcome fear of addressing them.
  • Develop emotional skills and strategies to lead with impact.
  • Enhance self-awareness of your emotional tendencies to improve communication.
  • Foster a culture that celebrates emotions as a source of wisdom and innovation
The Emotionally Strong Communicator = EI + Communication

In todayʼs fast-paced world, leaders must manage emotions with composure and respect. Emotional regulation and effective communication prevent misunderstandings, strengthen relationships, and foster collaboration. This keynote introduces a five-step model, The High EI Way, to help you take back the wheel and put you in the driverʼs seat of your emotions rather than them driving you off course. Understanding triggers, responding thoughtfully, and expressing confidence can turn conflicts into productive discussions while maintaining professionalism.

Discover tools to check your mirrors, steer clear of emotional potholes, and prevent interpersonal collisions. Learn to embrace emotions and navigate tough situations with strength and respect. Let this keynote guide you toward emotional mastery, equipping you with skills to always take the high road so you can lead with confidence and communicate with poise while staying in control of your emotions.

Audience Takeaways

  • Discover a proven five-step model to master emotional control.
  • Learn to navigate challenges with professionalism, respect, and strength.
  • Strengthen interpersonal connections and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
  • Develop practical strategies to manage emotional triggers and boost productivity.
  • Build emotional resilience to thrive under pressure.
The Emotionally Strong & Engaged Team = EI + Engagement

All organizations want actively engaged employees who are enthusiastic about their work, inspired and motivated by their leaders, empowered with autonomy to do their job their way, and confident they can achieve excellence. In this keynote, youʼll discover the key leadership traits and skills needed to create a culture of engagement where employees feel connected, appreciated, and fulfilled in their roles.

When your team feels genuinely valued and confident in their contributions, their performance and commitment will soar. Youʼll leave with actionable strategies to foster a thriving, high-performance culture that drives both employee success and organizational growth.

Audience Takeaways

  • Discover leadership traits that inspire engagement and commitment.
  • Learn strategies to create a workplace culture of connection, appreciation and fulfillment.
  • Empower teams with autonomy and confidence to achieve excellence.
  • Foster high-performance behaviors that drive organizational success.
  • Enhance employee commitment for sustained growth and impact.
The Emotionally Strong & Resilient Professional = EI + Resilience in Changing Times

In todayʼs fast-paced world, resilience is the key to navigating challenges with confidence. Professionals are constantly faced with pressure, uncertainty, and change, making emotional intelligence more essential than ever. The ability to stay grounded, adapt quickly, and regulate emotions can determine long-term success and well-being in the workplace.

Building resilience requires intentional preparation, helping you manage stress, think clearly under pressure, and maintain motivation. By developing grit and emotional agility, youʼll not only enhance your performance but also foster stronger relationships, improve collaboration, and sustain energy in demanding environments. This keynote will equip you with the tools to cultivate a growth mindset, regulate emotions effectively, and navigate change with confidence—ensuring you thrive both personally and professionally, no matter what challenges arise.

Audience Takeaways

  • Understand the critical role of emotional resilience in uncertain times.
  • Cultivate a growth mindset to adapt to challenges confidently.
  • Develop strategies to regulate emotions and maintain composure.
  • Boost physical and mental energy to lead with purpose and strength.
  • Inspire adaptability and resilience within your teams for greater success.
The Emotionally Strong Multi-Generational Leader = EI + Leading a Multi-Generational Workforce

In todayʼs workplaces, multiple generations work side by side, each bringing unique perspectives, motivations, values, and communication styles. To be an effective leader, itʼs crucial to understand these differences and leverage them for success.

This keynote will show you how to use emotional intelligence to bridge generational gaps, foster inclusion, and unlock the full potential of your diverse team. Youʼll gain practical strategies to connect with each generation—from Baby Boomers to Gen Z—and adapt your leadership style to cultivate a culture of collaboration, innovation, and high performance. By mastering these skills, you’ll drive higher productivity and organizational success, empowering your team to thrive in todayʼs evolving workplace.

Audience Takeaways

  • Understand generational differences in perspectives and communication styles.
  • Use emotional intelligence to bridge gaps and foster inclusion.
  • Adapt your leadership style to connect with and motivate every generation.
  • Cultivate a collaborative and innovative culture for high performance.
  • Leverage diversity to boost productivity and organizational success.
The Emotionally Strong Sales Consultant = EI + Sales

Sales is more than just persuasion—itʼs about connection. Understanding your customerʼs emotions and motivations allows you to build trust, uncover needs, and provide meaningful solutions. This keynote explores how emotional intelligence can elevate sales and customer service by fostering empathy, active listening, and authentic engagement.

By putting yourself in your customerʼs shoes, you can tailor your approach, handle objections with confidence, and create a lasting rapport. Learn to recognize emotional cues, regulate your own reactions, and adapt your communication style for maximum impact. Whether closing a sale or providing exceptional service, emotional intelligence gives you the edge to foster loyalty, increase satisfaction, and drive long-term success.

Audience Takeaways

  • Leverage emotional intelligence to build trust and deepen client relationships.
  • Recognize emotional cues and tailor communication for better results.
  • Handle objections with confidence and empathy. 
  • Engage in active listening to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Deliver EI-driven customer service to create long-term business success.
The Emotionally Strong Human in the Age of AI = EI + AI

As AI reshapes industries, emotional intelligence remains the ultimate human advantage. While AI can analyze and automate, it lacks empathy, trust-building, and emotional understanding. Yet, AI-driven change brings fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. This keynote highlights the irreplaceable role of emotional intelligence (EI) in leadership and workplace dynamics, helping individuals and teams navigate the emotional impact of AI.

Learn how EI sets you apart from machines and why connection, inspiration, and influence matter more than ever. Discover strategies to integrate technology while preserving human insight, fostering adaptability, resilience, and connection. In an AI-driven world, leading with EI is the key to lasting success.

Audience Takeaways

  • Understand how EI differentiates humans from AI and its role in leadership.
  • Recognize the emotional challenges AI brings and how to manage them.
  • Explore how EI enhances decision-making, collaboration, and trust.
  • Learn strategies to integrate AI while preserving human connection.
  • Apply EI techniques to foster adaptability and resilience in an AI-driven world.
See Carolyn's keynotes by industry

Platform Plus Presentations

Unique formats and ways to connect with audiences.
Keynote + Workshop Packages
Ask us about Carolyn's Keynote + Workshop combos and additional add-ons for your event!
Workshop — Becoming an Emotionally Connected Leader
Many leaders fear addressing emotions in the workplace, worrying about opening Pandoraʼs box. This workshop demystifies emotions and equips leaders with practical skills to handle their own emotions and those of their teams with confidence. Through interactive activities and discussions, participants will learn to view emotions as assets, creating a culture of trust, innovation, and collaboration.

Learning Objectives
• Understand the risks of ignoring emotions in the workplace.
• Develop emotional skills and strategies to build trust and connection.
• Enhance self-awareness of emotional tendencies to strengthen leadership effectiveness.
• Foster a workplace culture that celebrates emotions as a source of wisdom and innovation.
Workshop — Mastering Emotional Intelligence for Effective Communication
This immersive workshop introduces Carolynʼs five-step High EI Way model, empowering leaders to navigate emotional challenges with confidence and professionalism. Through hands-on exercises, customized case studies, and group discussions, participants will gain a deep understanding of emotional intelligence and how to apply it to real-world leadership challenges.

Learning Objectives
• Explore how emotional intelligence impacts executive decision-making and team dynamics.
• Discover the five steps of The High EI Way (Recognize, Reflect, Regulate, Reset, Respond).
• Learn techniques for managing emotional triggers and staying composed under pressure.
• Develop strategies to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster team collaboration.
Workshop — Leading with a Strong Mind and a Kind Heart
Designed for senior leaders and executives, this workshop focuses on the strategic application of emotional intelligence to drive organizational success. Participants will explore how emotional intelligence enhances decision-making, motivates teams, and fosters collaboration. They will leave equipped with the skills to develop and enhance their 15 emotional intelligence competencies and understand how these competencies influence both their professional and personal success.

Learning Objectives
• Explore how emotional intelligence impacts executive decision-making and team dynamics.
• Learn the 15 emotional intelligence competencies and their impact on leadership effectiveness.
• Develop an emotional intelligence strategy that aligns with organizational goals.
Workshop — Building an Emotionally Safe Culture
A strong corporate culture balances both cognitive and emotional elements, yet emotional culture is often overlooked, leaving employees feeling unsupported. This workshop explores how leaders can foster psychological safety, ensuring employees feel valued and empowered. Participants will gain practical tools to align cognitive and emotional cultures, driving engagement, trust, and collaboration.

Learning Objectives
• Understand how emotions influence employee behavior, motivation, and organizational success.
• Leverage emotional intelligence to foster a supportive and inclusive workplace.
• Apply tools to enhance emotional well-being and strengthen employee commitment.
Workshop — Empowering Growth Through EI Coaching
Effective coaching drives engagement, yet many leaders struggle beyond daily tasks. This workshop introduces a six-step EI-based coaching model to empower employees. Through interactive activities, leaders will learn to coach with empathy and insight, fostering autonomy and engagement. By mastering these skills, they will create a culture of trust, motivation, and sustained high performance.

Learning Objectives
• Understand how emotions influence employee behavior, motivation, and organizational success.
• Leverage emotional intelligence to foster a supportive and inclusive workplace.
• Apply tools to enhance emotional well-being and strengthen employee commitment.
Workshop — Becoming More Emotionally Resilient in Stressful Times
In todayʼs fast-paced workplace, employees juggle endless emails, meetings, and tasks, often feeling overwhelmed. Managing focus and energy is key to productivity and well-being. This workshop equips leaders with emotional intelligence skills—flexibility, stress tolerance, and optimism—to stay resilient under pressure, manage time effectively, and prioritize high-impact work.

Learning Objectives
• Discover techniques to excel in high-pressure situations and enhance stress management.
• Develop strategies to adapt to change with flexibility and maintain optimism.
• Learn practical habits for improving time management and handling workplace demands effectively.
Workshop — Leading with Integrity and Transparency
Authentic leadership builds trust, fosters engagement, and strengthens team collaboration through self-awareness, integrity, and emotional intelligence. This workshop explores key elements of authentic leadership, helping participants lead with honesty, vulnerability, and confidence. By aligning their leadership style with their values, leaders will create a culture of transparency, inspire others, and model the behaviors they wish to see.

Learning Objectives
• Recognize the competencies and behaviors that make a leader authentic.
• Develop a mindset and strategy for becoming a leader others are eager to follow.
• View leadership from an external perspective and design a personal plan for embracing authenticity.

Audience reviews:

  • I don't think I have the words to even sum up all the emotions I felt during your keynote at the CPHR conference. Thank you Carolyn, for your speech. I was moved to tears. Thank you for affirming the power of emotional leadership and reminding leaders like myself how powerful it is to lean into emotions and that it is OKAY to be self-aware of what we feel and to EMOTE. You really inspired me today and are an example of the leadership I want to lead. I felt validated that despite being "flowery", I will and can always "flourish". I look forward to your book. - Manager, People and Culture, CPHR Canada
  • Carolyn is one of the most engaging and real speakers on Emotional Intelligence I have experienced... Her virtual training is the best in the business, and her keynotes never get old—I take away something new each time. - Senior VP of Loyalty & Employee Experience, Rogue Credit Union
  • The Emotional Intelligence Virtual Retreat under Carolyn’s guidance opened lines of communication essential to a happy, productive team. Our work remains demanding, but our trust of one another is deeper. Our appreciation for one another is stronger. Even the introverts and skeptics among us continue to give it high marks. - President, University of Findlay
  • I am amazed by the change in my team and we have become much more open, deliberate and e ective. The benefits that come with a better understanding of emotional intelligence has been immediate and my team is rejuvenated and better positioned to work together and take on the challenges that lie ahead. - CEO, Fraser Surrey Docks
  • Carolyn has been amazing to work with. She teaches Emotional Intelligence to our organization in such an authentic way that people feel comfortable being vulnerable. This is so appreciated as we strive to build more understanding of ourselves and others within our organization! - VP Director, Learning and Development - Publicis Media
  • Carolyn cares about her clients, has gone the extra mile for us, and makes sure that what is promised is delivered. Her energy is contagious! - President & CEO, Bosley’s Pet Food Plus Inc.
  • Carolyn Stern recently presented the opening keynote at our HR Conference and Expo. Ms. Stern delivered an impactful presentation on Emotionally Strong Leadership. Conference attendees shared positive feedback, referencing her authentic, heartfelt speaking style and ability to weave personal stories into practical lessons. Carolyn's vulnerability in sharing her own emotional intelligence journey left an impact on many. It was clear she created a powerful connection with the audience; her "meet and greet" session after the keynote had attendees lined up to make a personal connection with her. The conceptual topic of emotional intelligence was made accessible and actionable through Carolyn's storytelling and it was a pleasure to have her kick off our annual flagship event for HR professionals. - President & CEO, CPHR BC & Yukon and CPHR Canada
  • She makes it enjoyable, as painful as it can be. She does push you through your comfort zones and she does it in a way that consistently delivers results. She really has the ability to bring the best out of you and challenge you, but to do it in a way that is progressive. - Senior Vice President of Employee Relations, British Columbia Maritime Employers Association
  • She has internalized the constructs and principles of emotional intelligence. She believes it so passionately, for all the right reasons. She brings that in such a compelling way that you can’t fight back, you have to embrace it.
    - Principal, Ignite Management Services Ltd.
  • Carolyn’s ability to recognize both emotional deficiencies and strengths in a group of “know it all” executives, and then to manage, direct and coach us to understand our team’s emotional strengths and to overcome our individual weaknesses is both awesome and unnerving. - Director, Engineering and Projects Neptune Terminals
  • In my 30+ year career, I have never experienced such profound insight into how and why I act and feel the way I do in the workplace. - Director, Operations Johnson Plastics
  • Carolyn motivates and inspires others… She brings her wealth of knowledge, real-life experiences and lessons to teach in a way that is unparalleled to others. - Co-founder & CEO Overstory Media Group
  • Carolyn has made my job easier by giving me a better appreciation of how employees act and behave based upon their emotional tolerances…When I had communicated in the past, I was getting frustrated…Now through my understanding of how they learn, how they listen through their emotional intelligence, it allows me to get through more effectively. So we have the connections we didn’t have before. That saves me time. It saves me effort. It reduces frustration and it allows me to be more productive and efficient in my interactions with staff. - President & CEO at Fraser Surrey Docks LP
  • I would definitely recommend Carolyn to other companies because what we did learn about each other here… [which] made us all closer together… I really do feel like that after we had our sessions and after we started to use the work that we did together with Carolyn, it really made me feel closer to people. That is what is important to me and I think it is important to a lot of the people here. - VP of Foodservice & Hospitality Division, Chewter’s Chocolates
  • I don't think I have the words to even sum up all the emotions I felt during your keynote at the CPHR conference. Thank you Carolyn, for your speech. I was moved to tears. Thank you for affirming the power of emotional leadership and reminding leaders like myself how powerful it is to lean into emotions and that it is OKAY to be self-aware of what we feel and to EMOTE. You really inspired me today and are an example of the leadership I want to lead. I felt validated that despite being "flowery", I will and can always "flourish". I look forward to your book. - Manager, People and Culture, CPHR Canada
  • Carolyn is one of the most engaging and real speakers on Emotional Intelligence I have experienced... Her virtual training is the best in the business, and her keynotes never get old—I take away something new each time. - Senior VP of Loyalty & Employee Experience, Rogue Credit Union
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Speaker Biography

Authentic connection and communication will create an environment of trust and belonging that will spur engagement, spike curiosity, and engender fraternity among your team members! That is what leading with emotional intelligence (EI) looks like.

The Emotionally Strong Leader with Carolyn Stern opens a new door to leadership through an inside-out, step-by-step approach that cuts straight to the heart of the issue: why we do what we do. Stern provides a simple set of strategies that will bring us to the best versions of ourselves in the workplace.

Carolyn Stern takes time to dig deep, and highly personalizes and customizes her presentations to meet your event’s objectives and unique requirements. She focuses on your attendees’ specific needs and leadership challenges, addressing the real issues they are experiencing in the workplace right now. Together, you will discuss which specific leadership topics to address and messages to impart, developing the perfect balance for your group. 

She is a certified Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development Expert, Certified Speaking Professional®, corporate trainer, award-winning author, and university professor.

And she’s author of the timely and relevant book: The Emotionally Strong Leader: An Inside-Out Journey to Transformational Leadership

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Carolyn Stern is the President and CEO of EI Experience—an executive leadership development and emotional intelligence training firm.

She is a certified Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development Expert, Certified Speaking Professional®, corporate trainer, award-winning author, and university professor.

Since launching her book, The Emotionally Strong Leader: An Inside-Out Journey to Transformational Leadership, Carolyn has quickly gained acclaim following her appearances on The Social, CTV Your Morning, Daytime Chicago, Global TV, Slice TV, OWN, Lifetime TV, MovieTime, Prime, and Tubi.

Her book was awarded the Axiom Book Award for the Best Business Book in 2023 in the leadership category and the 2022 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award in the career category.

She has also been featured in various media outlets across the globe, including Forbes, Fast Company, The European Business Review, The Globe and Mail, and Inc.com.

Carolynʼs emotional intelligence courses and modules have been adopted by top universities, and she has trained over 60,000 business leaders across the continent in highly regarded corporations.

Each session can be delivered either virtually or in-person and includes an optional workbook or handout.

You can be emotional and strong; they are not mutually exclusive. Invite Carolyn to speak at your event and empower your team to develop emotional strength in the workplace and beyond.