Why Empathy is Your #1 Hiring Trait

In this episode of Hire Learning, host Oz Rashid sits down with Michael Fowler, former CIO of Florida Power & Light (FPL), to discuss his incredible career journey, lessons in leadership, and what retirement really looks like for a lifelong innovator.

Michael shares insights from his time leading large-scale tech transformations, his approach to building high-performing teams, and why empathy is his #1 hiring trait. He also reveals the unconventional interview question that helps him spot red flags — and why trusting your gut is critical in hiring.

Plus, you'll hear fascinating stories from Michael’s post-retirement adventures — including an eye-opening trip to Iraq and a near-disaster in Guinea.

🔹 (00:00) Intro – Oz introduces Michael and kicks off with an unexpected travel story

🔹 (05:21) Why Michael retired — and why the decision was harder than you'd think

🔹 (11:42) Michael’s new projects in retirement, including mentoring and culture building

🔹 (15:08) The inspiring story behind Michael’s leadership book, Letters from Leaders

🔹 (20:55) Michael’s proudest achievement: Modernizing legacy systems to drive innovation

🔹 (26:14) The interview question that reveals everything about a candidate

🔹 (31:32) Why empathy is the most underrated hiring skill

🔹 (37:05) The time Michael’s travel plans turned chaotic — and how he navigated a crisis

🔹 (44:10) Why Michael’s #1 piece of advice is to "Do Big Things" — and what that means

🎧 Listen now to hear Michael’s powerful insights on leadership, hiring, and embracing new challenges.

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