EPISODE · May 8, 2026 · 24 MIN
How to Lead with Curiosity: Kafi Payne on Navigating Change
from Ask Ashley · host Ashley Russo
In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Kafi Payne, a dynamic leader in human resources, to explore the transformative power of empathy and connection in the workplace. Kafi, who has journeyed from being a middle school teacher to a director of HR in the tech industry, shares her inspiring story of adaptability, leadership, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all employees. Growing up in multiple countries and moving frequently, Kafi developed a unique perspective on the human experience, which she leverages to foster inclusivity and understanding in her workplace.Throughout the conversation, Kafi emphasizes the value of being seen and heard within corporate culture. She discusses the challenges and lessons learned during her company’s rapid growth and highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for employees to take risks and learn. With insights on how to engage in hard conversations and the necessity of curiosity over judgment, Kafi's passion for nurturing personal and professional growth shines through, reminding us that the human element is irreplaceable, even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.(00:00) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley Podcast (00:36) - - Introduction of Guest Kafi Payne (01:15) - - Kafi's Early Life Journey (04:00) - - Transition from Educator to HR (07:15) - - Impact of Moving on Leadership Style (10:00) - - Creation of Internal Employee App (12:45) - - Importance of Seeing Employees (15:20) - - Challenges of Rapid Company Growth (18:30) - - Balancing Growth with Employee Belonging (21:00) - - Creating Safe Work Environments (24:00) - - The Importance of Learning in Workspaces (26:45) - - Encouraging Risk-Taking in Learning (29:00) - - Teaching Leaders Hard Conversations (32:30) - - Feedback Culture in Dance (35:15) - - Grounding Mantra from Mentors (38:00) - - Embracing Curiosity over Judgment (41:00) - - Navigating AI and Human Interaction (43:30) - - Advice to Younger Self (46:00) - - Closing Reflections and Takeaways (48:00) - - Thank You and Farewell
What this episode covers
In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Kafi Payne, a dynamic leader in human resources, to explore the transformative power of empathy and connection in the workplace. Kafi, who has journeyed from being a middle school teacher to a director of HR in the tech industry, shares her inspiring story of adaptability, leadership, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all employees. Growing up in multiple countries and moving frequently, Kafi developed a unique perspective on the human experience, which she leverages to foster inclusivity and understanding in her workplace.Throughout the conversation, Kafi emphasizes the value of being seen and heard within corporate culture. She discusses the challenges and lessons learned during her company’s rapid growth and highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for employees to take risks and learn. With insights on how to engage in hard conversations and the necessity of curiosity over judgment, Kafi's passion for nurturing personal and professional growth shines through, reminding us that the human element is irreplaceable, even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.(00:00) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley Podcast (00:36) - - Introduction of Guest Kafi Payne (01:15) - - Kafi's Early Life Journey (04:00) - - Transition from Educator to HR (07:15) - - Impact of Moving on Leadership Style (10:00) - - Creation of Internal Employee App (12:45) - - Importance of Seeing Employees (15:20) - - Challenges of Rapid Company Growth (18:30) - - Balancing Growth with Employee Belonging (21:00) - - Creating Safe Work Environments (24:00) - - The Importance of Learning in Workspaces (26:45) - - Encouraging Risk-Taking in Learning (29:00) - - Teaching Leaders Hard Conversations (32:30) - - Feedback Culture in Dance (35:15) - - Grounding Mantra from Mentors (38:00) - - Embracing Curiosity over Judgment (41:00) - - Navigating AI and Human Interaction (43:30) - - Advice to Younger Self (46:00) - - Closing Reflections and Takeaways (48:00) - - Thank You and Farewell
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How to Lead with Curiosity: Kafi Payne on Navigating Change
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