Emotional Intelligence in the Age of AI: Lessons from Jury Consultant Nick Seidule on the B Student Podcast
In a recent episode of the B Student podcast, host Betsy Gardner sat down with Nick Seidule, founder of Seidule Law and bartleby, inc., to explore the deep and nuanced role emotional intelligence plays in the courtroom—and how it’s increasingly relevant across all sectors, especially in a world navigating AI-driven change. The episode is a masterclass in how empathy, perception, and mindfulness are not just soft skills—they’re strategic tools.
Emotional Intelligence and the AI Era
Betsy Gardner kicked off the episode by framing emotional intelligence (EQ) as a vital skill for the future, especially as AI becomes more prominent in the workplace. While machines can analyze data and mimic conversation, they can’t authentically connect with human emotion. Betsy suggests that EQ may soon become the most human and most irreplaceable skill, a point that sets the tone for Nick’s insights throughout the episode.
From Prosecutor to Jury Whisperer
Nick shared his journey from working as a prosecutor to becoming a jury selection consultant. His early career taught him the importance of reading people under pressure and understanding human behavior in high-stakes environments. These experiences laid the groundwork for his mastery of EQ—a skill that now defines his work with juries.
Reading the Room—Literally
A major theme in Nick’s work is context. “You can’t just look at a person’s body language or outfit and assume you understand them,” he says. Misinterpreting cues without understanding the broader context can lead to poor decisions, whether in the courtroom or the boardroom. For instance, someone crossing their arms isn’t always defensive—they could just be cold.
The Columbia Fishing Shirt Theory
Nick highlighted how even small details, like a juror wearing a Columbia fishing shirt, can offer insight. He interprets this as signaling someone who values independence and self-reliance—possibly skeptical of authority. While these interpretations can be subjective and need to be paired with other cues for a better analysis, they offer a fascinating look at how nonverbal cues are evaluated through a lens of emotional perception.
The Unexpected Leader
In a standout moment, Nick recalls a juror—a waitress—who confidently asked the judge where the bathroom was before anyone else. To Nick, this was a clear sign of leadership: someone unafraid to speak up and guide others. It’s a reminder that leadership often looks different than we expect, and that subtle behaviors can reveal who holds influence in a group.
Listening is a Power Move
Both Nick and Betsy underscore the value of listening with the intent to understand, not just to respond. It’s a habit that fosters stronger relationships, better decision-making, and deeper trust.
This kind of presence builds trust and uncovers information that surface-level communication misses.
In practice, this looks like pausing before reacting, asking deeper follow-ups, and noticing what’s not being said. Leaders who master this skill often unlock the insights that drive real change.
Everyday Life
The practical applications of EQ go far beyond the courtroom. Nick’s ability to assess personalities and predict reactions isn’t limited to jurors—it’s a skill that translates directly to leadership, sales, negotiation, and even hiring. The takeaway? Emotional intelligence is as valuable in a conference room as it is in a courtroom.
Mindfulness as an EQ Tool
Nick emphasizes the importance of self-care and mindfulness. He points out that unchecked stress can “leak” into your interactions, affecting how you’re perceived. Regular self-awareness practices, like meditation, help build emotional resilience—essential for anyone in a high-pressure role.
Empathy vs. Manipulation
Perhaps the most thought-provoking moment comes when Betsy and Nick explore the ethical line between using emotional intelligence to connect—and using it to manipulate. Nick advocates for empathy-driven use of EQ: It should be about understanding people, not exploiting them. It’s a distinction that anyone wielding influence should take seriously.
Final Thoughts: The Human Edge in a Digital World
This episode of the B Student podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, law, or simply becoming a more emotionally intelligent human. Nick Seidule’s insights are both practical and profound—offering key strategies to learn about human behavior. And as Betsy Gardner reminds us, emotional intelligence isn’t just nice to have—it’s what will set us apart in the age of AI.