EZRA Asks

In a world where AI can generate answers in seconds, the real question is: are we still thinking deeply enough? In this episode of Ezra Ask, Devin Haberkorn sits down with Melanie Steinbach former Chief People Officer at MasterClass and Chief Talent Officer at McDonald’s to explore what truly separates high-performing leaders in an AI-driven world. Your team is using AI. They’re moving faster. Automating more. But are they asking better questions… or just accepting the first answer? We dive into the real competitive edge in the age of AI and why it’s not about speed, but about human skills like curiosity, discernment, humility, and connection. 💡 In this episode, we cover: Why curiosity is becoming a make-or-break leadership skill The danger of relying on AI without critical thinking The 4 human differentiators that AI can’t replace Why leaders need to stop pretending they have all the answers The power of coaching in navigating AI disruption Human vs AI coaching—and why the future is both This conversation challenges how we think about leadership, learning, and performance in a rapidly changing world. Learn more about EZRA at https://www.helloezra.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if organisational culture wasn’t something you inherited — but something you deliberately designed? In this episode of EZRA Asks, host Sinead Keenan, Chief Innovation Officer at EZRA, sits down with Raj Verma, Chief Culture, Inclusion & Experience Officer at Sanofi, to explore how culture can become a strategic advantage rather than an invisible constraint. Raj shares how Sanofi has embedded culture, inclusion, and employee experience directly into its business strategy — shaping how the organisation innovates, moves at speed, and delivers better outcomes for patients worldwide. From designing belonging at global scale to treating culture as a commercial lever, this conversation offers grounded, practical insights for leaders navigating complexity, regulation, and constant change. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why culture needs intentional design, not passive inheritance - How inclusion and employee experience drive performance - What it takes to turn values into measurable business impact - How to build culture that scales across global organisations - Why employee experience is becoming a real competitive advantage This episode is for leaders, HR and people professionals, transformation leads, and anyone responsible for shaping how work really gets done. Learn more about EZRA at https://www.helloezra.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

EZRA Asks… Progress vs. Preservation: The Leader’s Real Job in Reinvention In a world that worships constant change, how do leaders know what actually needs to change — and what must be protected? In this episode of EZRA Asks, host Leslie Caputo, SVP of Global Solutions at EZRA Coaching, sits down with Jay Moore to explore the often-overlooked leadership skill of discernment. Jay draws on 37 years at GE — including his tenure as Chief Learning Officer — to unpack how leaders navigate reinvention without losing their organisation’s core identity. Together, they examine why not every change equals progress, how leaders decide what to preserve versus what to evolve, and what it really takes to lead wisely in times of ongoing transformation. A conversation for leaders who are tired of change for change’s sake — and ready to lead with judgment, clarity, and intent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI is reshaping how we work — but lasting transformation isn’t just about technology. It’s about people. In this live EZRA Asks episode, we sit down with Simon Lambert (Chief Learning Officer) and Tatiana Arventi (AI Workforce Function Lead) from Microsoft UK & Ireland to explore how to build the habits, behaviors, and leadership cultures that turn AI experimentation into sustained impact. Hosted by Emily Eastwood (Global Solutions Strategy Lead at EZRA), this conversation uncovers: • Why AI transformation starts with human transformation • How to move from pilot projects to organization-wide impact • The leadership capabilities needed in an AI-augmented workplace • How to empower teams to build curiosity and confidence to experiment • Real stories from Microsoft’s own journey with AI and coaching on a global scale If you’re a CHRO, CLO, HR leader, or manager navigating the future of work, this episode is for you. Learn how to lead with curiosity, empower your teams, and unlock the full potential of AI — one habit at a time. #aileadership #futureofwork #coachingculture #microsoft #ezraasks #aiatwork #ai #coaching Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it take to build cultures where people truly belong — and what happens when organisations don't quite get it right? In this episode of EZRA Asks, hosts Oly and Lewis sit down with Simon Blake, CEO of Stonewall UK, to explore the realities of driving inclusion in today’s workplace. From hybrid work and pandemic aftershocks to the challenges of a multi-generational workforce, they explore both the opportunities for change, and the resistance leaders often face. Together, they challenge outdated mindsets, spotlight the behaviours that unlock belonging, and connect inclusion directly to performance and culture. If you’ve ever wrestled with the fine line between intention and impact, this episode is a must-listen for leaders who want to move beyond performative gestures and create lasting change. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What’s the real impact of coaching—months after the sessions end? In this special episode of EZRA Asks, host Roper reconnects with EZRA coach Frederique and her coachee Jo, a year after sharing their journey in the Work in Progress documentary. Together, they reflect on the breakthroughs that stuck, the challenges that reshaped their thinking, and how coaching continues to influence both their personal and professional lives. If you’ve ever wondered what lasting change from coaching looks like, this candid conversation is proof that the impact goes far beyond the moment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can your culture keep up with your ambition? In this episode of EZRA Asks, host Sinead Keenan sits down with Eric, Principal of Organisational Effectiveness at Adobe, to unpack what it really takes to build a future-ready culture. From scaling fast to staying grounded in your values, they explore how leaders can align people strategy with business ambition — without losing their teams’ momentum in the process. Expect real talk on mindset shifts, cultural markers, and the leadership principles that actually move the needle. Whether you’re navigating rapid change or planning for what’s next, this episode offers sharp insights on how to lead through uncertainty — and create a culture that’s built to last. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Ezra Asks, host Sinead Keenan is joined by Kim McMurdo, Head of Organisational Development at Standard Chartered Bank, to explore the concept of high performance in the corporate world. They delve into the balance between ambition and sustainability, discussing how organisations can achieve lasting results without compromising employee well-being. With a focus on the pressures of digitisation and simplification, Kim shares insights from her extensive experience in leadership and performance, particularly within the financial services sector. The conversation addresses the evolving definition of leadership and the importance of creating cultures that foster both performance and employee health. Tune in for valuable perspectives on building sustainable high-performance environments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of EZRA Asks we invited in Marc Howells - VP of Global Talent and Organisational Development at AstraZeneca. We delve into the topics such as how do you balance performance for today whilst innovating for the future, how do you build belief in change, and how do you set direction from the top? #podcast #leadership #transformation Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this extended episode of EZRA Asks we invited in Vijay Pendakur - a leading thinker on leadership and team dynamics, author of soon-to-be released 'Alchemy of Talent' and a valued member of EZRA's advisory board. In this two part special, we delve into the topic of whether there really is a formula for high performing teams. We'll talk about topics like team cohesion and performance, diversity, friction and the critical role of leadership. #podcast #highperformancecoach #leadership Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this extended episode of EZRA Asks we invited in Vijay Pendakur - a leading thinker on leadership and team dynamics, author of soon-to-be released 'Alchemy of Talent' and a valued member of EZRA's adivsory board. In this two part special, we delve into the topic of whether there really is a formula for high performing teams. We'll talk about topics like team cohesion and performance, diversity, friction and the critical role of leadership. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In September's episode of EZRA Asks, we invited the incredible expertise of Dr Pamela Larde, to join a discussion alongside Professor Jonathan Passmore on the topic of joy and happiness. During the episode we cover topics like current trends and insights, toxic positivity, organisational responsibility, with many tips and insights shared along the way.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this month's episode, we invited Mike Sharrock, former CEO of the British Paralympic Association and qualified executive coach, to discuss the world of elite athleticism and purposeful leadership. Mike has worked across the globe in various roles with BP, with his first involvement in the Paralympics coming from their partnership with the games in London in 2012. We discuss a range of thought-provoking topics, such as the social impact of the Paralympic games, our perception of differences, doing purposeful work and building resilience. MAIN EPISODE FINAL Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our fourth episode of EZRA Asks, we invited Haesun Moon, Ph.D., author and educator at the University of Toronto, to discuss communication in the digital age. Haesun is a communication scientist and "pracademic", and cares about people experiencing better conversations at home and at work. In this conversation we explore questions such as, is how we communicate in this digital age in sync or out of tune? What are some of those big communication challenges that we face in the workplace? Are there generational differences that we need to be mindful of? And, how can a single word change a whole conversation? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our third episode of EZRA Asks, we invited Paul Nevin, Assistant Manager of the England Football team and first-team coach for League 1 club, RC Strasbourg, France, to talk about the crossovers between sports and professional development in the workplace. Paul is a former player himself, and is seen as one of the most respected and widely experienced coaches in the country. We discuss a variety of intriguing questions, such as what are the ingredients of high-performing teams? How can we approach setbacks and learn from failure? How do we make split-second decisions? And how do we recognise and nurture potential in others? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our second episode of EZRA Asks, we invited Nick Caesar, Head of Senior Leadership Development and Coaching Centre of Expertise at NatWest Group, to have a conversation about hybrid working. Nick is passionate about supporting individuals and organisations to achieve purposeful, inclusive, and sustainable growth. We discuss some of the most talked about questions, such as what have we learned in the last 4 years since many of us were forced to ‘work-from-home’? What mix of home, office, or ‘third’ space working seems to work? What type of people, roles and businesses benefit from hybrid working, and who might not fare so well? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our first EZRA Asks podcast, we invited Simon Lambert, Chief Learning Officer at Microsoft UK to discuss all things AI and the world of work. Simon is responsible for leading the learning culture and skilling strategy in the UK and driving the execution for customers, partners, employees, and future generation skilling. We discuss the big questions, such as 'Is AI really set to change the world of work, and what does that mean for HR and L&D functions?' and 'As individuals in all roles and functions look to put AI to use, are workplace cultures leading or lagging?'. 00:00:00 - Introduction to Ezra Asks Podcast00:00:10 - Sinead Keenan's Introduction and AI's Impact on Work00:01:03 - Guest Introduction: Simon Lambert00:02:11 - Simon's Take on AI and Technological Moments00:03:26 - The Superpower of Coaching and Simon's Superpower00:04:55 - Rapid Fire Questions with Simon00:06:53 - Simon's Personal Journey with AI00:07:20 - Organizational Culture and AI00:09:06 - Advice for L&D Leaders on AI and Culture00:10:02 - Habit Formation and Change in the Context of AI00:11:27 - Measuring Learning and Recognizing Learning Moments00:12:23 - The Role of AI in Enhancing Work00:13:03 - AI's Impact on Roles and Skills00:14:23 - Responsible vs. Irresponsible AI Practices00:15:05 - AI Use Cases for L&D and HR Leaders00:16:09 - Addressing Skepticism and Concerns Around AI00:17:12 - Predictions for AI in the Workplace in Five Years00:19:08 - AI as a Learning Assistant and Skills Valuation00:20:07 - Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-up Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.