Fringe by PeopleForward Network

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Hello Hello with Alyssa Rogers captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Some leaders don't need the spotlight to make a big impact. They show up through steady service, strong relationships, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Alyssa sits down with Jay Newcomb, General Manager of Talbert Building Supply in Clarksville, Virginia, for a warm conversation about community, customer care, family, and what it means to lead from behind the scenes. Jay shares how he unexpectedly found his way into the lumber industry, what sets Talbert apart, and why service starts with truly knowing your customers. From building supplies and home trends to supply chain challenges and family life, Jay brings humility, humor, and heart to every part of the conversation. This episode is a reminder that great leadership is often simple, personal, and consistent: do the right thing, give it 100%, and help the people around you succeed.   Additional Resources: Connect with Alyssa on LinkedIn Listen to Hello Hello wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Service begins with knowing your customers personally. Community involvement builds stronger business relationships. Trying something new can change everything. Great leadership often happens behind the scenes. Family and humility keep success grounded.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from How'd They Do That? with Skot Waldron captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Selling does not have to feel like selling. Sometimes, the most powerful business development strategy is simply becoming someone people trust, remember, and want to work with. Skot sits down with Tonille Miller, organizational psychologist, management consultant, executive coach, and author, to unpack how she built a thriving consulting and coaching business through authentic relationship-building instead of traditional sales tactics. Tonille shares how curiosity, generosity, and a "co-elevative" mindset helped her grow a powerful network, attract clients organically, and create work that feels aligned rather than forced. For coaches, consultants, and people-first leaders who want to grow their business without feeling sleazy, this conversation is a reminder that value comes first, trust compounds, and the best opportunities often come from the relationships you nurture long before you need them.   Additional Resources: Connect with Skot on LinkedIn Listen to How'd They Do That? wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Build relationships before you need opportunities. Lead with value, not a sales pitch. Authentic connection can outperform traditional selling. Daily networking habits create long-term momentum. Alignment attracts the right clients.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Unlocked with Skot Waldron captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Work can either drain people or deepen their sense of purpose. It's time to design workplaces that do the latter. Skot sits down with Mindy Honcoop, founder of Agile in HR and longtime people leader, to explore what it really means to put humans at the center of business strategy. With over 20 years in HR leadership, Mindy shares why organizations must move from reactive problem-solving to proactive, people-first design, especially when it comes to role clarity, onboarding, culture, employee experience, and organizational alignment. Together, Skot and Mindy unpack how leaders can listen better, ask better questions, and connect the employee story to the customer story. From reducing workplace churn to creating emotional loyalty, this conversation is a powerful reminder that when people feel seen, supported, and connected to purpose, organizations thrive.   Additional Resources: Connect with Skot on LinkedIn Listen to Unlocked wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Put people at the center of strategy. Proactive leadership creates healthier workplace cultures. Employee stories reveal the real problems. Loyalty grows when people feel deeply cared for. Small, curious questions can spark meaningful change.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The Shift with Mindy Honcoop and Marnie Robbins captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Change is coming fast, and managers are feeling every ounce of it. Marnie and Mindy sit down with Ali Merchant, founder of All-In Manager and author of "The All-In Manager", to unpack what leaders are missing in the rush toward AI transformation. Ali brings a grounded, people-first perspective on why managers cannot keep being treated as the catch-all solution for engagement, transformation, culture, and performance without meaningful support. Together, they explore why AI adoption is not just a tech rollout, but a change management and culture challenge. From "modeling over mandates" to psychological safety, shadow AI, blameless retrospectives, and the power of discernment, this conversation is a practical reminder that the future of work still depends on deeply human leadership.   Additional Resources: Connect with Mindy on LinkedIn Connect with Marnie on LinkedIn Learn more about AltHR Listen to The Shift wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Managers need support, not more pressure. AI transformation requires trust and dialogue. Model AI adoption before mandating it. Psychological safety fuels experimentation and learning. Discernment is the new leadership superpower.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Working Forward with Jason Cochran captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — The future of work won't be decided by AI alone. It will be shaped by whether we choose real connection over artificial convenience. Jason sits down with Bob Dalton, founder of Sackcloth & Ashes and LOCL, to explore why community may be the most important leadership strategy of the next decade. Bob shares the personal story that led him to build a mission-driven blanket company, how localism became his lens for societal change, and why leaders must move from building audiences to creating true communities. Together, Jason and Bob unpack the rising tension between technology and humanity, the danger of isolation in a screen-addicted world, and the urgent need for proximity, shared purpose, and real-life connection. For people-first leaders, this conversation is a wake-up call: the brands, workplaces, and communities that survive will be the ones built with conviction, authenticity, and human connection at the center.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The CultureCon Podcast with Nick Lombardino and Zach Blumenfeld captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — In a world starving for real connection, what if the answer is as simple and as radical as pulling up more chairs?

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Coach to Coach with Brandon Miller captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — What drives you? Unlock the strength of Belief

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Mo-ments of Experience with Geoffrey Smith captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — A former professional football player, a service dog named Poppy, and one decision on a mountain trail changed everything.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Vibecast with Kristi Skutvik captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Some of the most powerful culture work starts in the smallest moments. Kristi sits down with Steve Perkins, CEO and founder of Greenhouse Coaching, to explore how team norms shape the everyday vibe of work. Steve shares how his journey from a toxic workplace to a purpose-driven coaching business helped him see the deep connection between individual purpose, leadership, and organizational culture. Together, Kristi and Steve unpack simple but transformational practices like weekly sprint planning, intentional calendar blocks, and one-on-one meetings built around feedback, delegation, and development. This conversation is a reminder that great work vibes do not happen by accident. They are nurtured through rhythm, intention, and the courage to make the invisible visible.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The Third Layer with Marshall Lockton captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — In this conversation, Jason Johnson, CEO of Metro National, shares the rich history of the family-owned real estate development company founded by his grandfather in 1954. He discusses the importance of building relationships in acquiring land, the vision of creating a 'city within a city', and the expansion into various sectors beyond retail. Jason emphasizes the significance of long-term thinking in real estate, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. He also reflects on the dynamics of working in a family business, the transition of leadership from his father, and the collaborative effort to define and uphold the company's core values, which focus on integrity, trust, impact, and legacy.   Additional Resources: Listen to The Third Layer wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Marshall on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Metro National was founded in 1954 by Joe Johnson, starting with residential home building. The company has grown to encompass 10 million square feet of commercial real estate in Houston. Building strong relationships was key to acquiring the original 200 acres of land. Joe Johnson's vision was to create a 'city within a city' for community use. The company has expanded beyond retail to include healthcare, hospitality, and office spaces.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The Unleashing Leaders Podcast with Lee Scott captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Recognition is not a nice-to-have, it is one of the fastest ways leaders can build trust, momentum, and better employee experiences. Lee sits down with Rob Catalano, Chief Engagement Officer at WorkTango, to unpack how leaders can use feedback, recognition, and employee sentiment to create workplaces where people actually want to contribute. Rob shares how a career detour from marketing into employee experience shaped his passion for improving work lives, and why organizations need shorter feedback loops, more intentional recognition, and a deeper understanding of what motivates their people. From the power of specific, meaningful, and timely recognition to replacing blame with curiosity, this conversation gives leaders practical ways to make appreciation part of everyday culture. If you want to build a workplace where people feel valued, connected, and equipped to grow, this episode is your reminder that small moments of recognition can create lasting cultural change. Additional Resources: Listen to The Unleashing Leaders Podcast wherever you get yours! Attend Unleashing Leaders University! Sign up for our newsletter! Learn more about Unleashing Leaders Follow Unleashing Leaders on LinkedIn Connect with Lee on LinkedIn Follow Unleashing Leaders on Facebook Follow Unleashing Leaders on Instagram Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Recognition works best when specific, meaningful, and timely. Employee sentiment reveals what people need to thrive. Strong leaders replace blame with curiosity. Feedback should happen continuously, not annually. Purpose helps employees connect work to meaning.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Conscious Conversation with Amy Woodall captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Can you build a successful business, lead with heart and ditch the burnout badge of honor? Amy reconnects with Charlie Saffro, founder of CS Recruiting and unapologetic champion of conscious leadership, for a candid, no-fluff convo about leading with purpose in a world obsessed with hustle. Charlie pulls back the curtain on what it really means to ditch performative grind culture and embrace human-first leadership. They get real about what happens when companies skip the small stuff (like remembering work anniversaries), why your team deserves more than a plaque, and how Charlie turned a moment of personal leadership failure into company-wide policy change. This episode is full of mic-drop moments, practical takeaways, and a refreshing reminder that leadership gets better when you stop trying to be everything to everyone, and just get real.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Can't Stop the Growth with Chad Peterman captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Leadership doesn't come with a perfect playbook, but Jeff Blade has spent decades learning what works by stepping into the unknown and leading with humility. Chad Peterman sits down with Jeff Blade, former CFO, CEO, board member, and advisor, to unpack what it really takes to lead organizations through growth, change, and complexity. From his early days in public accounting to C-suite leadership in public companies and private equity-backed businesses, Jeff shares why the best leaders ask better questions, build trust first, and understand that business is always human at its core. Jeff and Chad explore servant leadership, purpose-driven organizations, private equity partnerships, board governance, and the character traits that separate strong leaders from self-focused performers. For leaders who want to grow their business without losing sight of their people, this conversation is full of hard-earned wisdom and practical perspective.   Additional Resources: Listen to Can't Stop the Growth wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Chad on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Lead with humility before proving your expertise. Character matters more than technical skill. Great leaders serve before they direct. Purpose-driven organizations unlock exponential performance. Private equity partnerships must fit your values.  

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Show Up As a Leader with Dr. Rosie Ward captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — The future of leadership may come down to one simple question: "What can I do to support you today?" Rosie Ward welcomes back Jen Marr, CEO and Founder of Showing Up and author of the book "Lifting Up: The Transformative Power of Supportive Leadership." Together, they explore why human skills are no longer optional in a world shaped by AI, disruption, generational divides, and rising disconnection. Jen shares practical ways leaders can help people feel seen, supported, and valued without turning every conversation into something heavy or overly emotional. From the "five 80s" to the "two 10 rule," this conversation gives people-first leaders tangible tools to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create workplaces where people can truly flourish.

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Addicted to Betterment with Nikki and David Gregory captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Your thoughts are either working for you or quietly working against you. Nikki and David Gregory unpack the power of perspective and the daily practice of choosing the "good one" when life feels chaotic, heavy, or uncertain. From lost client deals to unexpected change, they explore how pausing, reframing, and asking better questions can shift fear into possibility. This conversation is a reminder for people-first leaders that mindset is not just personal, it ripples into how we lead, decide, recover, and show up. When you can catch the thought, choose gratitude, and reframe the moment, you create space for something better to emerge.   Additional Resources: Listen to Addicted to Betterment wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with David on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Perspective shapes peace, progress, and possibility. Pause before reacting to difficult moments. Reframe failure as a beginning, not an ending. Gratitude helps shift negative thought patterns. Choose thoughts that work for you.  

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The Story Effect with Danielle Krischik captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Most leaders talk about culture. Tony Hartsgrove built one by telling the truth, trusting the data, and refusing to separate business growth from human growth. Danielle Krischik sits down with Tony Hartsgrove, CEO of ODC Construction, the largest shell contractor in the Southeast, to unpack what it really takes to lead through growth, acquisition, risk, and change. Tony shares how ODC grew from roughly $20 million to $400 million in revenue, why data became the company's secret sauce, and how purpose only matters when leaders make it real through stories, behavior, and accountability. From childhood lessons and imposter syndrome to luck, ambition, people-first pay, and the "back work" leaders must do before asking teams to follow, this conversation is honest, sharp, funny, and deeply human. It is a reminder that leadership is not about pretending to have it all figured out. It is about caring enough to build something bigger than yourself.   Additional Resources: Listen to The Story Effect wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn Learn more at The Story Effect Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Purpose sticks when leaders make it personal. Data builds trust during major change. Growth requires risk, revenue, and courage. Your story shapes you, but doesn't define you. People-first leadership includes financial care.  

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Gut + Science with Nikki Lewallen Gregory captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! ---- People success is business success, and leaders can't afford to treat those ideas as separate anymore. Nikki sits down with Enrique Rubio, founder of Hacking HR, to unpack how people-centered organizations create measurable business advantage. Enrique challenges leaders to move beyond transactional thinking and build workplaces where people are seen as whole humans, not just employees. From autonomy and flexibility to talent pipelines and human experience, this conversation connects the dots between culture, engagement, performance, and long-term sustainability. If you're ready to stop chasing quick fixes and start building a people-first culture that actually drives results, this episode is your call to begin the journey with clarity, courage, and commitment.   Additional Resources: Listen to Gut + Science wherever you get your podcasts!  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: People success and business success are deeply connected. Flexibility builds trust, autonomy, engagement, and performance. People-first culture is a continuous leadership journey. Human experience goes beyond traditional employee engagement. Great workplaces know why people choose them.

That branded mug on your desk might be doing more than holding coffee. It could be shaping memory, emotion, and loyalty in ways most leaders never stop to consider. Eric and Crissy have a fascinating conversation on the psychology behind why some merchandise becomes meaningful while most gets tossed aside. Together, they explore how neuroscience, sensory engagement, and emotional attachment influence whether a simple object turns into a lasting brand connection. From favorite pens and nostalgic mugs to innovative gifting strategies that drive real engagement, Crissy shares practical insights leaders can use to make every branded moment intentional and impactful. If you have ever wondered how to turn everyday touchpoints into powerful relationship builders, this episode will change how you think about swag, storytelling, and the small details that shape culture.   Additional Resources: Learn how to build your strategy to swag! Connect with Crissy on LinkedIn Learn more about Robertson Marketing Connect with Eric on LinkedIn Subscribe to PFN's YouTube for more insights like this! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Emotional connection determines whether branded merchandise is remembered Utility increases frequency of use and brand visibility Sensory engagement strengthens memory and loyalty Choice increases perceived ownership and product value Intentional gifting drives measurable engagement and influence  

The best leadership lessons sometimes come from the ones closest to the ground.

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.

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 Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! 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?

Ever been stuck in a "meh" moment, unsure if it's a yes or a no?

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 Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn 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: 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

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.

Why are we still using resumes like it's 1995?!

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.

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.

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?

Employees crave feedback, and 96% say they want it! But let's be honest… giving and receiving feedback can be awkward.

Ever felt like your culture change efforts are just… throwing spaghetti at the wall

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

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.

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.

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.

What if the biggest workplace challenge isn't strategy, skills, or systems, but simply understanding each other?

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

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

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.

What happens when a startup founder discovers that leading people is a completely different job than building products?

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.