#34 - People Over Policy: Steve Browne on Human-Centered HR

In this episode of The State of Work Today podcast, I sit down with HR legend Steve Browne, Chief People Officer at LaRosa’s, to talk about what it really means to be a people-first leader. From his decades of experience across manufacturing, professional services, and hospitality, Steve shares how being present, intentional, and radically human can transform company culture, boost retention, and make HR... actually cool. We talk about frontline leadership, why 98% of a GM’s time is people-related, the importance of connection, and why celebrating a 5-year work anniversary with a hoagie and a laugh might be more powerful than any performance review. Steve also opens up about flipping the “HR is scary” script, and why every location is its own cultural lab. If you’re in HR or care about building workplaces that work for people, this one’s a must-listen. Also - HR Net is a community created by Steve Browne to give HR leaders a space to connect, share resources, and support each other—be sure to join if you're looking for real-world advice, fresh ideas, and a network that truly gets what it's like to be in HR. Listen now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices