In this special episode, host Maricella Herrera introduces listener calls to the podcast for the first time. She sits down with Jaqueline Oliveira-Cella to test SAFE—an AI-powered emotional awareness tool—on two real workplace scenarios submitted by listeners.
SAFE is a methodology that helps people pause and reframe in high-stakes emotional moments at work and in life. The framework stands for Set intentions, Acknowledge facts vs emotions, Frame and reframe, and Execute.
In this episode, Maricella and Jackie work through two common workplace challenges:
Scenario 1: Navigating a Company ReorgA listener shares their anxiety about job security after their group is acquired by a larger team. They're unsure whether to update their resume, network with the new team, or wait to see how leadership decisions unfold. Using SAFE, they separate facts from feelings, identify what's within their control, and develop concrete micro-actions like "building bridges, not safety nets."
Scenario 2: Managing Uncertainty with a New BossAnother listener describes the discomfort of having a new manager who meets with the team before direct reports. They want to make a good first impression but don't know how to introduce themselves without overloading or being absent. SAFE helps them reframe the situation, consider the manager's perspective, and create a thoughtful introduction strategy.
Throughout both scenarios, Maricella and Jackie discuss the importance of distinguishing facts from emotions, finding hope and agency in uncertain situations, and taking small, strategic actions rather than waiting passively. They also explore how AI tools like SAFE can augment critical thinking and emotional awareness—not replace human connection.
This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, Maricella shares her own experience using SAFE to navigate anxiety before running the Chicago Marathon in October 2024.
Topics covered in this episode:
Emotional awareness and workplace stress
AI-powered tools for mental health and emotional regulation
Company reorganizations and job security anxiety
Managing relationships with new managers
Separating facts from feelings in high-stakes situations
Design thinking and AI as augmentation
Evidence-based journaling and reflective practices
Building resilience during workplace uncertainty
TIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] Cold open: The "fuck you" moment[01:00] Thanksgiving intro and gratitude[12:30] Conversation with Jackie begins[15:30] What is SAFE? The framework explained[20:30] Why Jackie created SAFE: personal experiences with workplace challenges[26:00] AI as augmentation vs. shortcut: critical thinking and design thinking[28:00] The future of emotional intelligence in an AI world[33:00] Listener Scenario #1: Company reorg and job security anxiety[35:00] Breaking down facts vs. emotions in the reorg scenario[39:00] Hope and agency: what the listener didn't mention[41:00] Micro-actions: Building bridges, not safety nets[46:00] Listener Scenario #2: New manager meeting the team first[48:00] Setting intentions for a first impression[50:00] Reframing: Could this be about fairness, not hierarchy?[52:00] Micro-actions: Draft an intro note, observe and listen[57:00] Asking SAFE about talking to the team[59:00] What's next for SAFE and closing thoughts
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Try SAFE for yourself (free on ChatGPT): https://chatgpt.com/g/g-68c2e478cba88191b31bf8e906de103f-s-a-f-e-leadership-daily-reflections
Connect with Jaqueline Oliveira-Cella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaquelineoc/
Previous episode with Jackie: https://maricellaherrera.substack.com/p/sht-i-had-a-midlife-awakening
SUBMIT YOUR SITUATION:Listeners can leave a voice note at (646) 902-1426 or email [email protected] to share workplace challenges for potential future episodes.
GUEST BIO:
Jaqueline Oliveira Cella inspires you to shift discomfort into purpose-driven action. She brings over 15 years of experience in US and global health, wealth, and wellbeing sectors, specializing in developing client-centric solutions, health equity, and risk management. Jaqueline has a proven track record of empowering employees and enhancing corporate wellness programs
As the founder of wellBe consulting, Jaqueline co-creates and advises healthcare corporations on innovating health and wellbeing solutions for employers, establishing strategic partnerships, and rethinking their go-to-market strategies and key performance indicators. Her recent executive education at Harvard Medical School and her actuarial and business background further empower her to drive meaningful, impactful changes.
Driven by her passion for purpose-driven action, Jaqueline created the 'Health at Work' initiative. Collaborations cover top health risk concerns topics such as Burnout in the Healthcare System, Culture & AI, Diabetes at Work, Busyness & Food, Mindful Inclusion, Menopause at Work, Measurable Inclusion & People Analytics. ‘Health at Work’ collaborations are promoted through LinkedIn, a social initiative, extending the reach of her work to help employees advocate for their health in the workplace, and build sustable organizations by assisting employers in navigating significant health challenges with data-driven and actionable insights.
KEYWORDS: emotional awareness, workplace anxiety, AI tools for mental health, company reorganization, managing new managers, SAFE framework, emotional intelligence, career transitions, job security, workplace stress, reflective journaling, ChatGPT for emotional awareness, reframing workplace challenges
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit maricellaherrera.substack.com
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