Linda Ockwell-Jenner talks with Tom Reilly about human-to-human connection in the age of AI. Tom argues the technology suits tedium but weakens presence, and that a silent loneliness pandemic leaves people craving real contact. He coaches bespoke, behaviour-based communication for leaders, urging vulnerability and authenticity in networking, boardrooms and sales, where trust can form in minutes. He also stresses balance between family, health and business.
Key Takeaways
- [02:24] Linda recounts being frustrated by companies using AI to "torture" customers on the phone, and calls for an option to always reach a real person.
- [03:16] Tom describes a "silent pandemic of loneliness," arguing people crave genuine connection more than ever while simulated connection surrounds them.
- [04:41] Tom says AI is excellent at tedium and low-end work, freeing people to develop the human skills that create trust.
- [09:50] He explains that all his training is bespoke: he diagnoses the organisation's real problem, then builds a programme that shifts beliefs, behaviours and identities rather than telling people they communicate badly.
- [14:57] Tom warns that many corporations use AI as a "wedge" or buffer, reducing human-to-human contact before the technology is ready to replace it.
- [17:07] He argues human skills are "withering" because people text and message instead of picking up the phone, which shows up painfully at networking events.
- [20:00] He draws on behaviour profiling — the kind used by federal law enforcement — rather than personality assessments like DISC, sharing only the tools each client needs.
- [22:11] His top networking tip: be vulnerable and authentic, admitting nerves out loud, which makes you the one person people remember.
- [23:51] "Throw off the costume" — authenticity gives everyone else permission to be open too, though some professions still call for stoicism.
- [26:58] In sales, vulnerability builds trust, contrary to the performative confidence most salespeople believe they need.
- [27:15] Tom insists deep trust can be built in about five minutes, not years.
- [28:55] He defines success as a whole life — home, health and business in balance, with one area sometimes needing extra focus, as when his son was in hospital.
- [29:57] Contact him via Limbinic Consulting (named for the brain's limbic region — motivation, emotion, impulse), at tom@limbinic.com, on LinkedIn, or through the SBCN member directory.