Fringe by PeopleForward Network

When you've done everything "right," the title, the success, the status, but still feel off course, what comes next? In this raw and revealing kickoff to the Not Sorry series on Conscious Conversations, Amy welcomes her new thought partner, Dr. Ashley Butler, for a soul-deep conversation about identity, permission, and shedding the expectations that no longer serve us. Ashley shares her courageous journey from the operating room to entrepreneurship, to a necessary pause and radical reinvention. She opens up about walking away from a high-powered medical career, shutting down a mission-driven business, and facing the uncomfortable silence of not knowing what's next. What emerges is a powerful message about reclaiming agency over your life, not out of apology, but from radical honesty. With her signature mix of vulnerability and clarity, Ashley unpacks the three pillars that now guide her path: Permission, Power, and Purpose. This episode isn't about quitting, it's about choosing again, and doing it for the right reasons. If you've ever asked yourself, "Whose life am I really living?" this one's for you. And it's only the beginning.   Additional Resources: Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn Subscribe to Ashley's Substack Newsletter! Subscribe to Conscious Habit on YouTube! Join the "Conscious Conversations" Community! Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Learn more about Conscious Habit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: True healing starts by pausing, not pushing forward. Titles don't define worth or future direction. Living for others leads to quiet self-abandonment. Purpose evolves, let it grow with you. Permission is the first step to realignment.  

What happens when Gen Zs and Boomers team up at work? Live from CultureCon 2025, Nikki Lewallen Gregory sits down with Megan Berki of Rocket Lawyer for a powerful conversation on bridging generational gaps in the workplace. With five generations now working side-by-side, Megan shares how leaders can turn differences into strengths, from Gen Z's TikTok-fueled learning to Boomers' process-driven mindset. Packed with real examples from Rocket Lawyer, this episode explores communication strategies, culture wins (and flops), and how to build a people-first workplace where everyone feels seen and supported. Whether you're leading, managing, or just navigating the mix, this one's for you. 🚀   Additional Resources: Connect with Megan on LinkedIn Learn more about Rocket Lawyer Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Five generations coexist, each with distinct needs and preferences. Tech-native Gen Z differs significantly from tech-savvy Millennials. Communication must be multi-channel and predictably consistent. Aligning tech tools to user habits drives adoption. Culture thrives when values are actionable and inclusive.  

The fastest way to elevate your leadership doesn't require a new strategy, a bigger budget, or a corner office. It starts with one word: hello. In this episode of The Better Boss, Gregg breaks down a deceptively simple yet transformational practice called "Be the First to Respect." Drawing from his early career at John Jay College and the unforgettable example of a president who made everyone feel seen, Gregg reveals why initiating a greeting, and using someone's name, carries far more influence than most leaders realize. Backed by social psychology and practical experience from the R-Factor Leadership Workshop, Gregg explains how being the first to acknowledge someone removes hesitation, builds instant rapport, and creates a powerful ripple effect of respect throughout your organization. This isn't about small talk. It's about intentional connection. It's about sending the message that every person matters. If you want your team to warm up to your ideas, receive your feedback openly, and genuinely respect your leadership, this episode gives you a technique you can use today.   Additional Resources: Listen to all episodes of The Better Boss on Show Up As a Leader Connect with Gregg on LinkedIn Take the Am I a Respectful Leader? Self-Assessment Learn more about The Center for Respectful Leadership Invest in Manager Skills with the R-Factor Workshop Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Say hello first, it's a leadership move. Use people's names to affirm their worth. Respect reduces social friction instantly. Initiation creates a powerful ripple effect. Consistency earns trust and reciprocation.  

What happens when every leader in your company defines "leadership" their own way? Spoiler alert: chaos. Live from the CultureCon 2025 studio in Madison, Wisconsin, Nikki Lewallen Gregory teams up with Coleman Williams, co-founder of Wrestling With Talent, to get real about the chaos that comes from undefined leadership. From inconsistent one-on-ones to unclear goal-setting, they explore how structure creates fairness without crossing into micromanagement. They also unpack how companies can onboard leaders with clarity, integrate AI for more effective training, and give employees a consistent, people-first experience, especially during change. This is your blueprint for leadership done right.   Additional Resources: Connect with Coleman on LinkedIn Learn more about Wrestling with Talent Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Clear leadership expectations reduce workplace inconsistency. Guardrails are not micromanagement, they offer direction. Start small to avoid overwhelming leaders with change. AI can enhance, not replace, leadership onboarding. Consistency supports fairness in the employee experience.  

What if chasing profit is actually killing your team's potential? 🎯 Nikki and Jason unpack one of PeopleForward Network's most powerful culture codes: Purpose Over Profit. They explore what happens when teams stop measuring success in dollars and start designing work around meaning, strengths, and alignment. From sharing candid team experiences, like skipping 4:30 AM workouts for midday movement guilt-free, to building a results-first, flexibility-driven culture, this episode challenges leaders to rethink how we define and pursue success 🧭. Whether you're climbing the ladder, leading others, or reevaluating your own path, this conversation is packed with stories and strategies to help you shift focus from hustle to heart ❤️. It's not just about how much you earn, it's about how deeply your work matters.   Additional Resources: Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Purpose fuels performance more than profit ever will. Work-life integration drives meaningful work culture. Great leaders connect roles to individual purpose. Team alignment requires clear, shared outcomes. Purpose evolves through life's changing seasons.  

Ever been stuck in a "meh" moment, unsure if it's a yes or a no? 😬 Nikki and Jason dive into a fun, fired-up convo about making bold, aligned decisions, personally and professionally. From saying no without guilt to spotting red flags in client partnerships and making hiring choices that truly light up your team, they cover it all. Nikki also shares powerful takeaways from Mel Robbins' "Let Them" philosophy and the Why.OS framework that keeps the PFN team living and leading with radical intentionality. Tune in if you're ready to lead, live, and love like every decision is a full-body "Hell Yes!"   Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Know your why to guide clear decisions. Energy alignment outweighs obligation every time. Misaligned clients drain culture and results. Right person, right seat is essential. Intentionality drives meaningful culture and impact.  

In this episode, Geoffrey Smith and Cory Jenks discuss the importance of human connection in healthcare, the need for innovation, and the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Cory shares his unique background as a pharmacist and improv comedian, emphasizing the significance of creating meaningful experiences for patients and caregivers alike. They explore the barriers to change within the healthcare system and the potential for individual engagement to drive transformation. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic presence, breaking down self-imposed limits, and the lessons learned from both positive and negative experiences in healthcare.   Additional Resources: Follow Cory on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-jenks-3ba17314/ Take a look Cory's book, Permission to Care: Building a Healthcare Culture that Thrives in Chaos: https://rb.gy/4a8yoo www.mo-mentsofexperience.com Subscribe to Mo-Ments of Experience on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@mo-mentsofexperience?si=IZAB036xX1mmrn2C Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com   Key Takeaways: Cory emphasizes the importance of getting patients off medication. Healthcare professionals can create joy in their work environments. Authentic presence is crucial in patient care. Building trust with patients is essential for effective healthcare. Self-imposed limits can hinder innovation in healthcare.  

What if the secret to better leadership isn't about doing more, but being more human? In this episode of Work Doesn't Work (Anymore), Dr. Ryan Darby sits down with leadership expert and founder of Brain Squared Leadership Solutions, Laurie Cozart. With over 10,000 individuals and 500 teams coached, Laurie brings deep insights on how leaders can thrive in today's complex and rapidly changing workplace. Together, they unpack why hero leadership is outdated, why clarity is the most underrated leadership skill, and how vulnerability and relationship-building are actually strategic advantages. Laurie shares stories from her own journey and introduces practical, neuroscience-backed tools for fostering resilient leadership, trust-filled teams, and simplified work cultures that don't burn people out. If you're tired of the noise and looking to build magic teams that feel good and perform better, this conversation is your playbook.   Additional Resources: Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn Followed Brain Squared Leadership Solutions on LinkedIn Learn more about Brain Squared Leadership Solutions Connect with Dr. Ryan Darby for continued leadership insights Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow Gut + Science wherever you get your podcasts for more from Work Doesn't Work (Anymore) Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Hero leadership quietly exhausts everyone Clarity is kindness and performance fuel Relationships make hard tasks feel easy Vulnerability builds trust, not weakness Emotional safety drives resilience and engagement  

What if your company values weren't just words on a wall, but a lived, breathing part of your culture that drives every hire, fire, and daily decision? Live from CultureCon 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin, Nikki sits down with Eliza Jackson of ButcherBox for a conversation that flips traditional HR playbooks on their head. With a colorful background that spans finance, kindergarten classrooms, and hypergrowth startups, Eliza brings a refreshingly real perspective on what it takes to build values-driven organizations that actually walk the talk. From rejecting high-performing candidates who don't align with company values to ensuring every employee has access to a personal coach, Eliza breaks down ButcherBox's radical approach to "baking in" culture at every level. You'll hear how they future-proof their workforce through mindset over skillset, maintain startup agility at scale, and foster a culture of relentless improvement, all while staying human at the core.   Additional Resources: Connect with Eliza on LinkedIn Learn more about ButcherBox Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Values must be embedded across all touchpoints. Coaching unlocks personal and organizational growth. Hire for mindset, not just experience. Startup culture can scale if you're intentional. Inner work fuels external culture strength.  

What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn't coming for your job, it's coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. From using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they're showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center 💡   Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: AI is a co-pilot. Use it to enhance, not replace, human work. Start small. Experiment with everyday tasks before scaling. Input matters. Better prompts lead to better, more authentic outputs. Culture comes first. Align AI use with your company's values. Free up time. Let AI handle the mundane so people can focus on meaningful work.  

What if your biggest leadership blind spots were hiding in plain sight? To celebrate 50 episodes of The Unleashing **Leaders Podcast, we're bringing this powerful conversation to Fringe. Host Lee Scott sits down with long-time friend and leadership powerhouse Cyrus Aram, TED speaker, UC Davis professor, and CEO of Unleashing Leaders. Together, they peel back the layers on the hidden blind spots that derail even the most experienced leaders. From culture clashes and conflict to misaligned customer experiences, Cyrus shares hard-earned insights and real-life stories that drive home the importance of empathy, frameworks, and thinking outside-in. With his signature candor and heart, Cyrus offers practical tools for navigating ambiguity, leading across industries, and helping people truly feel seen. This episode is part strategy, part soul, and all about unleashing what's already within you.   Additional Resources: Listen to The Unleashing Leaders Podcast! Attend Unleashing Leaders University: https://unleashingleadersuniversity.com/purchase Learn more about Unleashing Leaders: https://unleashingleaders.com/ Follow Unleashing Leaders on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unleashingleaders Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeallenscott/ Follow Unleashing Leaders on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnleashingLeaders/ Follow Unleashing Leaders on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unleashingleaders/ Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Culture trumps everything in leadership success or failure Frameworks help leaders navigate complex, recurring challenges Conflict reveals deeper issues, not just surface disagreements Strategic thinking starts with listening to language patterns Outside-in perspective transforms customer experience design  

What if the real reason workplace engagement hasn't budged in 30 years is because we've made leadership too complicated? In this kickoff to a powerful new content partnership, Nikki introduces Dr. Ryan Darby, organizational psychologist, leadership simplifier, and founder of WorkStrong. Ryan's not here for hype. He's here for habits. Drawing from his deep experience with 34Strong and years of leading large-scale engagement work, Ryan shares why most leadership development fails, and how a simpler, more actionable approach can finally move the needle. You'll hear the backstory of Work Strong's creation, rooted in real gaps spotted inside thriving companies. You'll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Work Doesn't Work (Anymore)" series and why Ryan believes the future of leadership lies in emotional regulation, discipline, and better listening, not more content. This one's a rally cry for people-first leaders ready to stop admiring the problem and start doing what actually works.   Additional Resources: Connect with Dr. Ryan Darby on LinkedIn Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Leadership is a skill, not a knowledge dump. Engagement won't shift without habit-driven systems. Listening is thinking. Learn how your brain hears. Simplify leadership: action over theory. Good leadership demands emotional regulation and resilience.  

What if your team could get more done in less time? ⏳ In this Community Conversation, Nikki and Jason flip the traditional "hours worked" mindset on its head, championing the power of results over clock-watching. They share why it's time to ditch the outdated 9–5 mentality, how to unlearn habits that hold us back, and why role clarity + goals + KPIs are the secret trio for driving real impact. 🚀 From experimenting with a four-day work week to harnessing AI for smarter workflows, this episode is packed with practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and a few personal stories that'll make you rethink your relationship with time. Whether you're a leader or a team member, you'll walk away ready to work sharper, not harder, and maybe even earn yourself that extra day off.   Additional Resources: Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Measure success by results, not hours worked. Use role clarity, goals, and KPIs to guide focus. Unlearn outdated time-based work habits. Leverage AI to boost efficiency and flexibility. Cut low-value tasks to create space for impact.  

Why are we still using resumes like it's 1995?! 📄 Live from CultureCon 2025, Nikki Lewallen Gregory is joined by Natasha Nuytten, CEO of CLARA, for a rapid-fire convo on shaking up everything we thought we knew about HR. From blowing up the resume to embracing AI in ethical and human-first ways, Natasha dishes on how leaders can stop playing it safe and start rethinking talent. They explore the magic of unlearning, why potential matters more than pedigree, and how to build hiring processes that actually reflect the world we live in today. If you're tired of rinse-and-repeat recruiting and ready to reimagine the future of work, this episode is your permission slip to challenge the status quo and lead with heart and strategy.   Additional Resources: Connect with Natasha on LinkedIn Learn more about Clara Listen to "Human Side Up" Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Learn more about CultureCon Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Unlearning outdated HR practices creates room for innovation. Skills-based hiring outperforms resume-based filtering. Culture fit should evolve into culture value-add. AI must be ethical, transparent, and human-first. Potential matters more than traditional career paths.  

What if the secret to staying focused, aligned, and genuinely excited about your goals wasn't a 20-page annual plan, but a simple monthly sprint? Nikki and Jason pull back the curtain on how PeopleForward Network uses OKRs and monthly sprint goals to spark team momentum. 📈 They demystify what OKRs really are, how sprint goals drive alignment and energy, and why failing fast can actually fuel success. Packed with real-life examples and people-first leadership insights, this episode delivers practical tips and a dose of workplace magic. 💡 Whether you're leading a team or just trying to keep the main thing the main thing, this episode is your playbook for unlocking strategic progress, one sprint at a time. 🏃‍♀️   Additional Resources: Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: OKRs bring focus and clarity to what really matters. Monthly sprints keep goals agile and actionable. Team alignment grows with regular goal check-ins. A safe, feedback-rich culture powers real progress. Agility isn't optional, it's a must for modern teams.  

What if your biggest money block was invisible… and inherited? Welcome to a groundbreaking kickoff of a new Addicted to Betterment series with Nikki and David, and the incomparable financial coach, Roya Mattis. Together, they dive deep into the subconscious programming most of us never question: the invisible money stories we inherited long before we even earned our first dollar. 🧠 From cheese-and-cracker ceilings to yacht-level abundance, Roya masterfully unpacks how our earliest money memories silently set our financial thermostats, and how we unconsciously sabotage success when we out-earn our internal "deserve level." This isn't your average money mindset talk. It's about soul elevation, healing scarcity at the root, and stepping fully into your purpose-driven power with money as a tool, not a trap. 💸 📲 If any of this resonated with you and you are curious about programs offers or possibilities, click this link: http://www.CallWithRoya.com   Additional Resources: Listen to "Breaking the Financial Ceiling" on Addicted to Betterment! Connect with Roya on LinkedIn Learn more on Roya's website Subscribe to Addicted to Betterment on YouTube! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with David on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Financial ceilings are often subconscious, not circumstantial. Early money memories shape lifelong beliefs and behaviors. Deserve level determines financial highs and lows. Money is a tool for love and expansion. Rewrite inherited money beliefs to change your future.  

Ever wonder what your action figure accessories would be? Or whether you'd rather be launched to Mars or dive into the depths of the ocean? 🌊 🚀 In this offbeat bonus episode of Leading for Wellness, Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer ditch the serious talk and take each other on a wild ride through quirky, laugh-out-loud hypotheticals, all sparked by a friendly showdown between Google and ChatGPT. From irrational fears to fashion regrets and hilarious text messages from fans, this candid convo is full of surprising insights, contagious laughter, and the kind of weird questions that make you pause... and maybe howl laughing. Come for the fun, stay for the perspective shift.   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Humor enhances connection and authenticity in leadership. Irrational fears can spark thoughtful self-awareness. Fashion trends reveal hidden parts of personality. Offbeat questions encourage meaningful reflection. Joyful moments create memorable team bonding.  

Employees crave feedback, and 96% say they want it! But let's be honest… giving and receiving feedback can be awkward. 😬 In this episode of "In the Loop", Katherine Coble is tackling the art of feedback: how to do it well, when to give it, and why it matters. Inspired by Radical Candor by Kim Scott, Katherine explores how to balance caring personally while challenging directly (without being too harsh… or too nice). Plus, we're sharing the "Four F's of Feedback," a simple formula to make your feedback clear, actionable, and actually helpful. 🎯   Additional Resources: Download this PDF to learn how to get + give great feedback! Learn more about Radical Candor Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Right amount of feedback drives highest employee engagement. Give feedback as close to the event as possible. Leaders model openness by regularly asking for feedback themselves. Balance caring personally with challenging directly, like Radical Candor. Use Four F's: frame, future, feelings, follow-up.  

Ever felt like your culture change efforts are just… throwing spaghetti at the wall 🍝? In this episode, Nikki sits down with BJ McKay from ADVISA to swap real, in-the-trenches stories of transformation. Together they break down the ATLAS framework, reveal why discomfort is the secret ingredient to lasting change, and share how to keep leaders energized instead of burned out. From ditching the busywork to mastering the art of measurable impact, BJ's insights will have you rethinking how you approach culture so it actually sticks. This is your backstage pass to what works (and what doesn't) when you're leading people-first change that lasts. 🎯   Additional Resources: Get Your 5 Minute Culture Check! Connect with BJ on LinkedIn Learn more about ADVISA Listen to Culture Starts Here on The CultureCon® Podcast Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Real transformation is uncomfortable but necessary. Systems must show measurable impact, not just look good. Focus on fewer priorities to reduce burnout and increase impact. Leadership growth at work benefits life outside of work.  

Ready to break free from program fatigue and culture initiatives that fizzle out fast? Nikki sits down with Heather Haas, CEO of Advisa, as she shares why so many culture efforts flop and how HR professionals can finally make the shift from being stuck in a silo to leading true transformation. They dive into the game-changing A.T.L.A.S. framework. Think executive activation, trust, leadership development, people data, and killer systems all designed to drive results and get your team rowing in the same direction. If you're an HR leader who's done with the fluff and ready for a proven system that sticks, this convo is your new playbook 💡   Additional Resources: Connect with Heather on LinkedIn Get your Culture Check! Learn more about Advisa Listen to Culture Starts Here on The CultureCon® Podcast Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: HR needs executive buy-in, culture change isn't a solo act. Define behaviors, not buzzwords. Use data to shift from tactical to strategic. Develop leaders aligned to culture goals. Systems must support, not sabotage, change.  

What if the hardest part of leading well... was everything around you trying to stop you? Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer pull back the curtain on what it really takes to lead with empathy and integrity when the system around you isn't built to support it. From personal stories of burnout and toxic workplaces to actionable strategies for building micro-cultures and protecting your team's well-being, this episode doesn't shy away from the messy, exhausting, and deeply human side of people-first leadership. 🤲 Learn how to stay grounded when you're surrounded by resistance, and why the right kind of hard is the one that puts people first.   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Create micro-cultures even in toxic environments. Recovery requires more than just relaxation. Find and build with culture allies. Time investment in people yields long-term gains. Leadership is hard. Choose challenges that uplift.  

What if the key to business success wasn't just hitting KPIs, but creating a legacy where people feel seen, heard, and inspired to grow? This episode of "Boundary Breakers" is a masterclass in leading with purpose from Mark Mears, former exec at McDonald's, PepsiCo, and The Cheesecake Factory, and now the visionary behind LEAF Growth Ventures. 🌱 From boardroom victories to an unexpected turning point that sparked a whole new mission, Mark shares how a single fig tree inspired a movement built on Leadership, Engagement, Accountability, and Fulfillment. Mark dives into why the word "employee" is outdated, how culture should evolve into community, and what it really takes to foster belonging in today's workplace. He unpacks the true cost of disengagement, how to overcome the fear of change, and why leaders must shift from managing for profit to leading with heart. ❤️ If you're tired of surface-level engagement and ready to build something meaningful, for your team and yourself, this episode will challenge and inspire you to step into legacy-building leadership.   Additional Resources: Get Mark's Book - "LOVE@WORK" Take the LOVE@WORK Assessment Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Original podcast episode Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Purposeful growth drives sustainable leadership impact. Fulfillment is a more powerful goal than success. Communities create belonging, not just culture. Engagement requires heart, head, hands, and habits. Leaders must evolve from bosses to legacy builders.  

Nick and Zach kick off their podcast series with the wild and wonderful origin story of CultureCon®️: from blizzard-filled roundtables and zero event planning experience, to surprise Vegas marquees and full-on imposter syndrome. Along the way, they share the heart behind why CultureCon exists: to make work suck less and to build authentic connections that go far beyond job titles. You'll laugh, you'll learn, and you'll get a sneak peek at the incredible stories and topics coming your way. Think AI, DEI, and social entrepreneurship. This is the start of something big, and a whole lot of fun.   Additional Resources: Listen to The CultureCon® Podcast! Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon®️ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: CultureCon®️ began with roundtable discussions focused on real workplace challenges. Intimate, cross-industry connections fueled the event's success. Culture isn't just HR's job. It's everyone's. The podcast extends CultureCon®️'s mission year-round. Upcoming topics include AI, DEI, employer brand, and social impact.  

What if your next "perfect" hire is just a well-programmed bot? AI fraud is here, and it's quietly hijacking your hiring pipeline. 🤖 Gerald Gordon sits down with Steve Browne, Chief People Officer at LaRosa's Inc., to tackle a hiring crisis no one's prepared for: AI-generated candidates and digital twins fooling their way into your organization. From ghost applicants to automated resume farms, Gerald and Steve dig into how HR and TA leaders can fight back, with human connection at the core. You'll hear why Steve believes traditional interviews are broken, how LaRosa's built a culture that retains top talent for decades, and why asking better questions, not checking more boxes, is the future of hiring. If you're hiring, leading, or just tired of robotic recruitment, this one's for you.   Additional Resources: Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Connect with Gerald on LinkedIn Learn more about Reference Me Join the PFN Community! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: AI fraud is reshaping talent acquisition urgency and strategy. Authentic conversations outperform traditional, scripted interviews. Nuance matters because machines miss human complexity. Culture fit starts with how you interview. Human-centered vetting strengthens retention and trust.  

What if the biggest workplace challenge isn't strategy, skills, or systems, but simply understanding each other? 👀 Amy sits down with Lindsay Boccardo, speaker, coach, and generational expert who makes the complex topic of age gaps feel surprisingly fun. Together they explore why we label each other, how parenting trends shape the leaders we become, and why "kids these days…" has been said for centuries. Lindsay challenges us to swap judgment for curiosity, reminding us that progress doesn't come from repeating past struggles, but from breaking cycles and building bridges. Whether you're a leader trying to connect with Gen Z, a millennial caught between two worlds, or a boomer navigating change, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about generations… and about yourself. 💡   Additional Resources: Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn Subscribe to Conscious Habit on YouTube! Join the "Conscious Conversations" Community! Sign Up for the Conscious Habit Newsletter Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Learn more about Conscious Habit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Key Takeaways: Generational labels are broad strokes, not personal definitions. Biases like "kids don't want to work" repeat across history. Parenting trends shape workplace expectations. Progress means breaking cycles of trauma, not repeating them. Curiosity bridges gaps better than judgment.  

What if the secret to a thriving workplace culture came down to just five simple leadership behaviors? Geoffrey sits down with the brilliant Paula Allen, global mental health researcher and champion for workplace wellbeing. Together, they geek out over the five leadership behaviors that shape thriving, resilient teams. From psychological safety to the magic of gratitude, this episode is packed with actionable insights that are just as relevant today as when it first aired. Whether you're leading a team or hoping to inspire change in your workplace, this one's a must-listen. Let's explore the science of being more human, because culture starts with how we lead 💛   Additional Resources: Connect with Paula on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-allen-2717206/ Learn more about Telus Health: https://www.telushealth.com/en-us/https:/go.telushealth.com/telus-mental-health-index www.mo-mentsofexperience.com Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Leader behaviors, not titles, define workplace culture. Kind, collaborative leadership builds team trust and safety. Inclusivity fuels creativity and engagement. Purpose-driven leaders inspire extra effort. Clear, decisive leadership reduces anxiety.  

Think all great salespeople are born talkers with years of experience? Think again. Matt Poepsel chats with Jim Speredelozzi, who flips the traditional sales script on its head. Jim shares how he went from 90-day quitters to building a thriving 150-person sales team, all by focusing on mindset, process, and hiring based on who people are, not just what they've done. You'll hear how he uses science to build strong sales teams, why being a "business therapist" might be your ultimate sales superpower, and what every new sales manager needs to know before stepping into leadership. Whether you're scaling a team or rethinking how you coach your people, Jim's practical, people-first wisdom is guaranteed to leave a mark. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Sales is a teachable skill, not innate talent. Hire for behavior and mindset, not experience. Mindset determines long-term sales success. Great sellers often become great leaders. One-on-ones are sacred for employee development.  

Think one wellness strategy works for everyone? Think again. Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer unpack why "one size doesn't fit all" when it comes to supporting your people. From co-creating personalized plans to avoiding quick-fix blanket solutions, they share how leaders can better meet employees where they are, without judgment or assumptions. Through real stories and research-backed insights, Patricia and Katina show that when leaders invest in truly understanding their people, they unlock loyalty, performance, and lasting wellbeing 🌱.   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Wellness is unique and shifts over time. Person-centered planning builds trust and commitment. Co-creating solutions strengthens leader-employee relationships. Leaders must avoid assumptions and judgments. Employee goals should guide support and development.  

🎙️ What if your podcast did more than talk… what if it built a movement? Nikki and Eric spill the tea on how podcasting can be way more than a mic and a message. It can be the heartbeat of a thriving community. 💓 They dive into how turning listeners into collaborators flips the script from one-way content to two-way connection. From building online spaces where fans become friends, to leveraging strategic partners who fuel momentum, this episode explores how B2B brands can transform podcasting into a powerful growth engine. If you're dreaming of deeper engagement, natural referrals, and next-level impact, this one's your blueprint.   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community Subscribe to PFN's YouTube Channel! Connect with Eric on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Community fosters two-way engagement beyond podcast audio. Strategic partners expand reach and operational capacity. Podcast communities can drive significant new revenue. Audience relationships deepen with ongoing interaction. You can't build thriving community alone, collaboration is key.  

What if your podcast could be more than just content, and actually become your best sales and marketing engine? In this live episode from CultureCon® 2025, Nikki and Eric share their secret playbook for turning podcasts into powerful business growth tools. From claiming your niche and attracting the right guests, to creating inbound momentum and unlocking sponsorship opportunities, they reveal how podcasting, done with intention, can drive brand awareness, new relationships, and even revenue. Whether you're podcast-curious or looking to maximize your current show, this conversation proves that podcasting isn't just about downloads… it's about results. 🚀   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community Subscribe to PFN's YouTube Channel! Connect with Eric on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Define your niche first. Clarity on your ICP drives podcast success. Podcasting fuels business development. Guests become authentic connections. Lead with value. Invitations beat cold outreach every time. Make CTAs meaningful. High-value offers spark inbound engagement. Monetize strategically. Sponsorships can turn podcasts into revenue streams.  

What happens when a startup founder discovers that leading people is a completely different job than building products? 🚀 Matt sits down with Adam Burke, former Chief Strategy Officer at The Predictive Index and former co-founder of Charma, to unpack the messy, exciting journey of scaling from a handful of teammates to hundreds. From the awkward leap into managing managers to designing tools that make leadership easier, Adam shares how intentionality, structure, and even a little science can transform how we lead. Whether you're growing a team or just stepping into leadership for the first time, this conversation will leave you with fresh ideas for making management less chaotic and more human 💡.   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Scaling requires new leadership skills beyond individual contribution. Managing is a discipline, not a side task. Daily tools help make best practices stick. Remote and hybrid work demand intentional connection. Behavioral science personalizes leadership impact.  

What happens when a farm girl from small-town Iowa becomes the CFO of a fast-growing real estate company? That's the journey of Tanya Betts, and in this episode of the Haverchat Podcast, she opens up about the twists, turns, and lessons learned along the way. From nearly 25 years at American Athletic to making the leap to Haverkamp, Tanya shares what it really feels like to start over after decades in one place, why mentorship shaped her leadership style, and how she's learned that true leadership is about lifting others up. This episode is a reminder that career growth, like life, is less about speed and more about staying true to what matters most.   Additional Resources: Listen to Haverchat Podcast! Connect with Todd on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Leadership is about helping others grow. Career changes can be challenging but rewarding. Mentors leave lasting professional and personal impact. Culture depends on both people and processes. Stewardship and integrity guide lasting success.  

What if your job respected your life as much as you respect your job? Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer dive into a radical (but necessary) idea: work should support your life… not consume it. 💡 They unpack what it means to be a "boundary bouncer":leaders who fiercely protect their team's time, values, and wellbeing like VIPs behind a velvet rope. From dodging late meetings that creep into T-ball practice to honoring dog walks even when your boss is terrified of dogs, Patricia and Katina keep it real while serving up actionable insights. Tune in to learn why respecting boundaries isn't just good for wellness, it's rocket fuel for performance. 🚀   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Great leaders act as "boundary bouncers," protecting personal time. Respecting boundaries means enforcing them, not just acknowledging them. Trust grows when leaders value life outside of work. People balance work and life differently. Know their style. Documenting boundaries builds clarity and respect.

What if the very things you believe make you a good leader are actually holding you back? In this episode of "Leading Adam with Adam Binkerd," things get real… and personal. With no guest in the studio, Adam Binkerd and Erica Crabtree take the mic to explore one of the most overlooked aspects of leadership: the subconscious norms we've inherited from society, our upbringing, and past experiences. From the belief that "leaders should always have the answers" to the classic "if you want it done right, do it yourself," they unpack how these hidden scripts quietly shape the way we lead, and often sabotage the human experience at work. Adam shares powerful insights drawn from hundreds of coaching sessions and his own journey through addiction and recovery, giving this episode a raw, refreshing honesty you don't always get in leadership conversations. If you're a people-first leader who wants to grow beyond the surface level, this episode is your permission slip to dig deeper.   Additional Resources: Connect with Adam on LinkedIn Listen to Leading Adam with Adam Binkerd Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Most leadership missteps are unintentional and driven by subconscious norms. Common beliefs like "leaders must have the answers" often backfire. Blanket team corrections can harm morale more than help. Self-awareness is more powerful than immediate action. Our past experiences quietly shape how we lead today.

What if the best workplace recognition strategy has been wagging its tail or purring at your feet this whole time? 🐾 David Martin uncovers the surprising power of pet perks and what our furry friends can teach us about recognition. While most workplace programs focus on achievements, pets remind us of something deeper: unconditional acknowledgment for simply being ourselves. 🐕🐈 From the science behind oxytocin and stress relief, to real stories of pet-related benefits like 24/7 virtual vet care and lost pet recovery, David explores how organizations can boost loyalty, engagement, and culture by embracing the whole person. This isn't just about cute office dogs… it's about rethinking recognition in a way that's authentic, human, and lasting.   Additional Resources: Subscribe to the podcast: Perk Up: A Pet Benefits Podcast Connect with David on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Recognition should value who people are, not just what they do. Pets provide proven mental health benefits that boost focus and creativity. Pet perks show organizations value the whole person. These benefits strengthen engagement, retention, and authentic connections.

In this episode of "Lead the People," host Matt Poepsel welcomes AmberLyn Bryant, People & Culture Director at Keyrenter Denver, to explore how behavioral insights and intentional culture-building elevate employee experiences. Drawing from her own evolution through toxic to thriving workplaces, AmberLyn shares how data-driven tools like the Predictive Index are transforming how teams communicate, onboard, and grow. Learn how a personalized approach to leadership and employee reviews is not just a "nice to have," but a strategic advantage for scaling organizations. This episode is a roadmap for HR professionals and people-first leaders who want to turn culture into a catalyst for performance.   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Self-awareness tools accelerate personal and team growth. Scalable culture needs personalized, structured systems. Quarterly reviews drive alignment and reduce bias. Behavioral data enables tailored leadership. Strong HR-business partnerships fuel better outcomes.

What if the secret to high-performing, happy teams had nothing to do with working harder, and everything to do with how it feels to work with you? In this episode of "Leading for Wellness," Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer dive into the underrated superpower of leadership: setting the right tone. From stories of care packages on the front lawn during COVID to coworkers driving each other to urgent care, Patricia and Katina reveal how small, consistent acts of kindness spark cultures where everyone steps up, not just the leader. And guess what? The better your team vibes, the less you have to carry alone. 💡 Whether you're leading a massive team or just starting to shape your workplace, this episode will challenge how you think about productivity, leadership, and the legacy you're building… one intentional tone at a time. 💛   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode! Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: The tone you set shapes how your team behaves, even when you're not around. Caring leaders inspire caring teams. Supportive cultures reduce burnout and boost collaboration. Legacy is built through consistent, people-first actions. It's not about how long you work… it's how you lead.

What happens when one person with a big vision is tasked with building a global learning function from scratch? In this episode, Matt sits down with Akkshada Maniyan, who's turned learning into a strategic superpower at Innova Solutions. From building a global team to creating 88+ in-house courses and 100+ personalized learning paths, she's all about scaling with heart and hustle. 💡💥 Akkshada shares how she hires for passion over pedigree, uses metrics to keep learning business-critical, and fosters a culture where agility, innovation, and career growth thrive. 📈 She also dives into her book "The Serial Influencer" and explains how to keep your influence fresh and your impact lasting. Whether you're in HR, L&D, or just a leader who loves leveling up people, this convo will spark some serious inspiration. 🚀   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Strategic learning must align with business goals to drive real impact. Hire for passion and adaptability over traditional experience. Use data to prove learning effectiveness and influence leadership. Personalized learning paths fuel employee growth and retention. Lasting influence comes from consistency, clarity, and trust.

Ready to bust the myth of the superhero leader? 🦸‍♂️❌ In this episode of "Leading for Wellness", Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer dive into why trying to be the flawless, all-knowing boss is actually hurting your leadership game. From awkward eggshell-walking teams to trust-eroding perfectionism, they unpack the messy (and all-too-relatable) consequences of putting up a polished front. But don't worry! They also bring real stories of leaders who ditched the act and embraced vulnerability, authenticity, and human connection. ❤️ Whether it's a hiring story that'll restore your faith in management or weekly check-ins that go beyond surface-level chat, this episode proves that letting go of perfection is exactly what makes you powerful. So if you've ever wondered, "Do I have to be perfect to lead?" … this one's for you. 🎙️💡   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Perfect personas in leadership often alienate teams and create distrust. Vulnerability and openness strengthen leader-employee relationships. Employees are more engaged when leaders admit they don't know everything. Creating space for personal connection helps build authentic workplace cultures. Leaders who model authenticity encourage others to show up as their full selves.

What if thriving at work wasn't a nice-to-have, but a human right? 💡 Mauren "Mo" Berkner Boyt, founder of The Moxie Exchange, joins Matt Poepsel to unpack the power of inclusion—backed by neuroscience, real data, and lots of heart. From "amygdala hijacks" to why your phone habits can actually help build belonging 📱, this episode is packed with insights for people-first leaders ready to make inclusion part of every day.   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Thriving is the true north—beyond engagement, it's about psychological safety and inclusion. Inclusion is not abstract; it's a set of small, consistent behaviors leaders can learn and apply. The business case for belonging is real—leaders should personalize ROI through tools and data. Microaggressions have neurological consequences; inclusion reduces amygdala hijack and increases innovation. Frontline leaders have the greatest influence on culture and need specific tools to succeed.

We're introducing a NEW series here on Fringe: Leading for Wellness with Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer! 🎙️ Patricia and Katina kick things off by digging into why workplace wellness really matters—and why most companies are doing it wrong. From "Generators" who light up teams to "Extinguishers" who drain the energy, they share research, real talk, and personal stories to show how true wellness goes way beyond yoga classes and step challenges. If you've ever rolled your eyes at a "hope you're well" email… this one's for you 😅   Additional Resources: Grab your copy of "Leading for Wellness" Listen to the original episode Listen to the Leading for Wellness Podcast Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: True wellness goes beyond programs; it's embedded in daily culture and leadership behaviors. Employees want to be treated as whole human beings, with individualized needs. Productivity and wellness are not opposing forces—they're deeply interconnected. Leaders often unknowingly adopt "extinguisher" behaviors that hinder wellness. Organizations must act on burnout data, not just collect it.

Live from CultureCon 2024 🎙️ Nikki chats with Michelle Naples, Chief Integration Officer at Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. They dive into what servant leadership really looks like in practice—from trauma-informed care for everyone to creating cultures of co-creation and courageous conversations. Michelle also challenges how we talk about "overhead" and why the words we choose matter more than we think. This one's packed with fresh perspective, real-world wisdom, and plenty of heart ❤️   Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Titles and words matter—use language that reflects your culture and purpose. Servant leadership starts with internal service: supporting your colleagues first. Co-creation gives every employee a voice in strategy and innovation. Trauma-informed care isn't limited to client-facing roles—everyone benefits. Recognizing and revaluing internal support teams is essential for people-first leadership.    

Goats, graduate degrees, and Glassdoor—yep, they're all part of Amber Cerone's leadership journey! From project manager to Senior Director of Talent and Doctor of Psychology, Amber's path is proof that "searching" is part of the process. In this episode, Amber joins Matt Poepsel to talk about the power of career exploration, why leadership is more about influence than titles, and how trust—not office time—drives engagement in a virtual world 💻✨ Whether you're just starting out or navigating change, Amber's story offers real talk, big laughs, and powerful lessons about owning your path and leading with heart ❤️   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Career clarity often comes from eliminating paths, not just finding the right one. Today's talent market is candidate-driven—employer brand and internal mobility matter more than ever. Leadership is about influence, not headcount. Change management is critical in a post-pandemic, virtual world. Trust is the #1 driver of virtual employee engagement.

🎧 In another episode live from CultureCon, Nikki chats with Melissa Sanchez from Duck Creek Technologies—and trust us, this one's packed with 💡 aha moments! Melissa breaks down how they're flipping the script on employee engagement by starting before day one, treating team members like VIP clients, and building a culture that people don't just join—they own 🦆💙. From remote connection tips to stories that'll give you all the feels, this episode is a people-first leadership playbook in action. Tap in!   Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Employee retention should mirror client retention—start engaging early, communicate clearly, and build trust. Consistent internal communications and platforms like newsletters are essential for connecting remote teams. ERGs play a critical role in belonging and personal growth; employees thrive when supported holistically. Small moments—like one conversation or warm welcome—can catalyze lasting engagement and ownership.  

Live from CultureCon, Jasmine Bellamy chats with the powerhouse Bryetta Calloway about meritocracy, marginalization, and why inclusion isn't just a checkbox. Bryetta shares her personal journey, spicy truths about workplace culture, and why the "just work hard" narrative doesn't cut it anymore. From unspoken rules to emotional labor and allyship that actually means something, this convo is full of "wait... wow" moments. Tune in for real talk, laughs, and the kind of insights that make you rethink your 9–5. ✨💼   Additional Resources: Follow The LOVING Leader on LinkedIn  CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Meritocracy often hides deeper structural exclusions based on cultural sameness Inclusion must precede diversity and equity efforts for meaningful impact Marginalized employees often carry invisible labor and trauma that leaders overlook Allyship means being emotionally affected by injustice, not just intellectually aware Pausing to notice emotional shifts and team dynamics is a crucial leadership skill Storytelling is a powerful tool for empathy and culture transformation    

Get ready to travel the world—without leaving your headphones! 🌍✈️ In this episode of "Lead the People," Matt Pepssel chats with Chris Failla, a leadership coach who's been to 50+ countries and is on a mission to create healing, human-centered workplaces. They unpack why being seen, known, and loved at work isn't just nice—it's necessary. Add in some global stories, leadership wisdom, and even a surprise geography game—you're in for a joyful ride!   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Healing and healthy workspaces should be a leadership obligation, not just an opportunity. Seeing and knowing people goes beyond performance—it speaks to humanity. Self-care isn't selfish; it's how we sustain energy and show up fully. Leaders must model presence and intentionality to create true impact. Joy and freedom in leadership come from aligned missions and human-first interactions.

Live from CultureCon, Nikki sits down with Ann Newman, Director of Learning at Goodwill Greater Milwaukee and Chicago, to talk about all things purpose, people, and the magic that happens when those two align 💫. Ann shares her take on the "secret sauce" that makes work feel meaningful, how to interview with purpose in mind, and her go-to tools like "rug checks" and "glows, grows, and gravities" that keep teams thriving. Whether you're hiring, leading, or just looking to connect on a deeper level, this convo is packed with ah-ha moments and energizing insights 🙌.   Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Purpose alignment is a major driver of engagement and energy at work. Leaders should model vulnerability and self-awareness to open up meaningful conversations. Interview processes should be built around uncovering candidate purpose alignment. "Rug checks" and consistent cultural norms can deepen psychological safety. Leaders must be intentional about creating connection—especially in remote or hybrid environments.    

🚀 Remote work doesn't mean disconnected work! Live from CultureCon, Jasmine Bellamy is joined by Greta Jackson, who shares how simple, structured fun—like Fun Fact Fridays and Photography Bingo—can transform remote engagement. Her golden rule? Hope is NOT a plan. Connection takes strategy, consistency, and creativity. And the proof? A 150% increase in engagement just by making it easy and natural! If your remote team feels disconnected, this convo might just change the game. 🎧✨   Additional Resources: Follow The LOVING Leader on LinkedIn CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Engagement requires intentionality—it doesn't happen by accident. Hybrid and remote workplaces need structure to build relationships. Hope alone won't create engagement. Fun is part of the work experience. Simple, low-cost activities drive connection and workplace friendships. Consistency is key. A predictable cadence of engagement efforts helps build trust and participation. Adaptability is critical. Engagement strategies should be flexible and evolve based on employee needs.

What can leaders learn from the high-pressure world of neonatal intensive care? Dr. Susan Landers, a seasoned neonatologist, joins Matt Poepsel to share insights on handling stress, building resilient teams, and navigating work-life balance. From life-or-death decisions in the NICU to balancing a demanding career and family, Susan's lessons apply to leaders in any field. Tune in for powerful takeaways on teamwork, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Leadership in Crisis: The NICU is an intense, high-stakes environment where quick decisions and teamwork save lives—similar to leadership in any fast-paced industry. The Power of Teamwork: A well-functioning team includes diverse roles, from doctors to respiratory therapists to lactation consultants. Everyone plays a critical part. Emotional Intelligence is Key: Parents handle stress differently—some shut down, others demand miracles. Leaders must recognize different coping mechanisms and adapt. Work-Life Balance is a Moving Target: Balancing a medical career with motherhood required constant adjustments, clear communication, and strong support systems. The Evolving Workplace: Remote work has changed how professionals connect, making it even more important to foster relationships and support networks.

Leaders, listen up! 🎙️ If you don't believe in what you're leading, your team won't either. In another episode live from CultureCon, Nikki sits down with Laura Gottfredsen Suminski, VP of Talent at UW Credit Union, to unpack why alignment between personal values and workplace culture is a game-changer. They tackle what happens when leaders don't walk the talk, how to rebuild belief when doubt creeps in, and why knowing yourself is the secret sauce to leading with confidence. Tune in for real talk, practical tips, and a whole lot of leadership wisdom! 🚀   Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Leaders must truly believe in what they are communicating, or employees will see through it. Misalignment between values and workplace culture creates confusion—both for leaders and employees. When belief wavers, dig deeper: Is it a lack of information, a temporary situation, or fundamental misalignment? Self-awareness is key: Knowing your core values helps ensure you work in alignment with them. Leadership starts with self-care—whether through morning routines, reflection, or personal growth, taking care of yourself helps you lead effectively.