#43 - Putting People First: How Co-ops Build Culture, Engagement, and Strategic HR with Felipe Pizarro, VP of People and Culture at North Central Co-op

In this episode of The State of Work Today, I talk with Felipe Pizarro about what makes the cooperative business model so unique—and how it changes the game in HR. Felipe shares his journey from ergonomics to executive leadership, what retail taught him about frontline engagement, and how North Central Co-op connects people, purpose, and performance. We dive into employee experience, succession planning, the power of listening, and why DEI is more than a metric—it's a commitment to community. We also talk data, AI, and what the future of HR looks like when people strategy actually leads business strategy. Listen now to learn how co-ops put people first—and why that’s smart business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices