Feb 17, 2026
Sophie Wade is a work transformation strategist, workforce innovator and well-known authority on the future of work. She is Founder of Flexcel Network where she advises executive leaders on human-centric, AI-driven change while also hosting her own show, the Transforming Work Podcast. Mike Petrusky asks Sophie about her latest book, “Empathy Works: The Key to Competitive Advantage in the New Era of Work”, and why she believes we need a more holistic approach to workplace innovation, considering the human element and the psychology of collaboration. They explore the importance of integrating different departments such as facilities management, HR, and IT to create a cohesive work environment and discuss the role of technology and AI in shaping the future of work. FM leaders must embrace empathy and understanding in our distributed and hybrid work environments, so Mike and Sophie share stories about collaboration, music, and next generation connections as they encourage and inspire you to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization!
Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-sophie-wade/
Learn more about Sophie’s work: https://www.sophiewade.com/
Subscribe to The Work in Progress Report: https://theworkinprogressreport.substack.com/
Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J
Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/
Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/