Episode 116

#116 What's Important Maire-Louise Marshall - Human Leadership in a Digital World

What if the future of work wasn’t about technology replacing us, but about rediscovering what it means to be human?

In this episode, I’m joined by Marie-Louise Marshall, a self-described Queenager and corporate dropout who helps leaders and organisations embrace digital transformation while keeping people at the centre.

Through her company, Hu-Me, she guides businesses struggling with digital adoption, facilitates leadership development, and advocates for human-centric strategies in the workplace.

We explore Marie-Louise’s journey from her early influences to a career in banking, technology, and leadership, and how her father’s lessons on truly seeing and hearing people shaped her values.

She shares insights on creativity, emotional intelligence, and the power of Lego Serious Play as a tool for problem-solving and collaboration. We also discuss the evolving nature of work, universal basic income, and the opportunities and challenges presented by AI.

Marie-Louise’s mission is clear: to be a warrior for humanity, ensuring that as technology advances, human connection, creativity, and agency remain at the heart of our future.

💡 Key Takeaways:

  • Leadership is about enabling others and knowing when to step back.
  • Emotional intelligence is vital in navigating workplace change.
  • Digital transformation is reshaping workplace dynamics.
  • Creativity and play foster innovation and collaboration.
  • Lego Serious Play helps deflate egos and build shared understanding.
  • Universal basic income could play a role in the future of work.
  • Human connection must remain central in a technology-driven world.
  • Critical thinking is crucial in education and society.
  • AI presents both opportunities and challenges.
  • Nurturing yourself sustains impact and energy.

✨ In Marie-Louise Words

  • "The future relies on being human."
  • "Who doesn’t love a bit of bricks?"
  • "We need to regain our agency."


🙌 Connect with Marie-Louise Marshall:

👉 Website

👉 LinkedIn

👉 Instagram


🔗 Stay connected with James Dean Coaching:

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👉 Podcast


🎯 Interested in coaching?

If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you.

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What's Important To You?
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James Dean

Hi, I’m James Dean — Life Coach, Podcast Host, and Curious Human.

I’m the host of What’s Important to You? — a podcast dedicated to real, reflective conversations that uncover the stories, values, and breakthroughs that shape how we live, lead, and grow.

With a background in corporate life, personal development, and endurance sports (including Ironman training with three Labradors in tow), I’m deeply passionate about helping people reconnect with what matters most.

Each week on the show, I sit down with remarkable guests — coaches, creatives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers — to explore questions like:
What drives you? What have you overcome? And what are you learning now?

It’s not just a podcast — it’s a space for growth, clarity, and meaningful connection.

Whether you’re in transition, looking for inspiration, or just love a good story with soul, you’re in the right place.