Gut + Science

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 wellness program is actually making burnout worse?

Ready to supercharge your leadership communication with a little help from AI?

Get ready for a fresh twist on Gut+Science!

Get ready to have your mindset stretched and your leadership toolkit expanded!

Work's changing fast—hybrid setups, flexible perks, and even pets making boardroom appearances

In this episode of “In the Loop,” Katherine sits down with Dr. Michael Kirchhoff from Cooper University Healthcare.

We're back with another special feature with Jason and Nikki, as they take you behind the curtain at People Forward Network to show how they're shaking up team meetings

Remote work is here to stay—but how do we actually thrive in it?

This one's different

In this episode of “In the Loop,” Katherine takes us from scraped knees on a turquoise bike to shark diving in Hawaii —all to teach one powerful lesson: great leaders don't clam up when times get tough. With the world spinning fast around political shifts, DEI rollbacks, and plummeting employee engagement, Katherine breaks down how to stay grounded, clear, and forward-thinking. Think of it as your communication toolkit for chaos. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how to lead with purpose when the waters get rough

For this special feature, Nikki joined Dan Dominguez on his podcast, “Lead Different”

What if your 9–5 helped you chase your wildest dreams? ✨ Nikki chats with Kate Volman, CEO of Floyd Consulting, about how the Dream Manager program is flipping the script on workplace culture

What's really keeping leaders stuck?

In this episode of “In the Loop,” Katherine is joined by Dr. Sue Ellspermann, President of Ivy Tech Community College! From engineer to Lt. Governor to higher ed powerhouse, Sue shares how she leads with passion, strategy, and radical transparency. They dive into how she unites thousands of employees across Indiana with a shared vision, why repetition is her secret weapon, and what it takes to keep communication clear in complex systems

Pets at work?

What happens when you ditch micromanagement and start leading with trust? Tina Moe, CPA and founder of ACT Services, shares how she turned workaholic tendencies into a thriving culture of autonomy. From dropping timesheets to rewarding longevity with unlimited PTO, she's redefining leadership—one empowered team member at a time. If you're tired of feeling like you have to do it all, this episode is your permission slip to let go, level up, and build a team that owns their work.

What does it really mean to advocate for employees? In this episode, Nikki is joined by Jennifer Knotts, CFO of IDO Incorporated, who is proving that leadership isn't about following a straight path—it's about forging your own!

Company rituals aren't just for fun—they're the glue that holds teams together.

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

Delegation isn't just about offloading tasks—it's about unlocking your team's potential!

Ever feel like your team is always busy but not actually moving the needle? You're not alone. In this episode of The Roots Up Approach, Steve and Nikki unpack the secret to cutting through the chaos: the Weekly Planning Rhythm—a simple, game-changing system to set clear priorities, stay focused, and actually get things done. Steve shares how this rhythm transformed his own business (and sanity), why Monday meetings are the worst, and how one leadership team went from total disorganization to seamless execution in just one week. Ready to ditch the overwhelm and lead with intention? Tune in now and grab the Roots Up Quiz to build your custom action plan!

Ever felt like something at work just wasn't clicking—but you couldn't put your finger on why?

Great leadership starts with great communication!

What happens when you look beyond someone's job title?

What's your purpose story? On this episode, Nikki is joined by Marshall Lockton, entrepreneur and Partner of Knight Agency, takes us on a journey from his family's business at Lockton Companies to his passion for purpose-driven leadership. Marshall shares how crafting meaningful stories fuels performance, builds connection, and brings purpose to life.

In this episode of Gut + Science, Nikki sits down with Azizi Marshall, a workplace mental health expert and international speaker, to tackle the bold truth: mental health care is a must-have, not a nice-to-have. From startling stats (1 in 4 adults face mental health challenges!) to ripple effects in workplace culture, Azizi shares actionable insights on turning data into strategies, creating impactful training programs like de-escalation workshops, and building a culture of care that fosters resilience. Tune in to learn how to lead better, care smarter, and make work a place where people truly thrive.   Additional Resources: Connect with Azizi on LinkedIn Check out Azizi's website! Learn more about Center for Creative Arts Therapy Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Mental health care is vital: Addressing mental well-being is not a luxury but a necessity for individual and organizational success. Data informs strategy: Workplace culture assessments can identify trends, like caregiving challenges or burnout, and tailor solutions effectively. Proactive training is critical: De-escalation workshops help employees handle conflict while maintaining emotional balance. Resource visibility matters: Provide easy access to mental health, financial, and caregiving support with clear, regular communication. Cultural accountability: Creating norms where employees support and correct each other fosters a healthier environment.

Core values: are they driving your culture or just filling up wall space? Katherine Coble unpacks how to make your values real—think Chick-fil-A-level real. From hiring and onboarding to tough decisions that protect your culture, Katherine dives into what it takes to walk the talk. Ready to transform words on a wall into actions that inspire? Let's dive in!   Additional Resources: Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Take the SKOR Snapshot Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Core values must reflect who you already are. Aspirations belong in the vision, not in the values. Leaders set the tone for living the values. If leaders aren't modeling them, employees won't follow. Embed values into every aspect of the business. From recruitment to recognition, values should guide decision-making. Tough decisions uphold credibility. Failing to address misalignment damages trust, even with high performers.

Work and life don't have to compete! In this exciting kickoff to a new partnership with Steve Perkins of Greenhouse Coaching, Nikki and Steve discuss the "Roots Up" approach—a fresh way to grow the life and team you want. Learn how to ditch the chaos, design with intention, and create thriving cultures where work works for you. It's practical, inspiring, and packed with insights you can start using today. Dive in!   Additional Resources: Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Take the RootsUp Quiz! Learn more about Greenhouse Coaching Take the SKOR Snapshot Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Roots First, Growth Follows: Leaders often focus on surface results but overlook foundational habits. The "Roots Up" methodology emphasizes starting with the right foundational practices. Vision as the Anchor: A clearly defined vision acts as the north star for personal and organizational success. Dynamic Delegation: Empower teams by delegating responsibility and thinking, creating trust and engagement. Integration Over Balance: Shift from balancing work and life to intentionally integrating them in a way that fulfills both.

What happens when leaders lose their spark, their confidence, and their sense of direction? Enter Work Twisties—a concept Ify Walker brings to life in this episode of Gut+Science. Inspired by Simone Biles' "twisties," Ify shares her raw, emotional story of grief, self-doubt, and rebuilding after losing her biggest champion. Through tears and powerful truths, Ify reveals how leaders can navigate these moments of feeling lost and how we can better support one another. This isn't burnout—it's deeper. And trust us, you'll walk away with insights that stick. Grab your headphones and maybe some tissues—you won't want to miss this one.

In this episode, Nikki chats with Michelle Yates, EVP at Pet Partners, about the magic of pet-friendly perks in the workplace.

2024 flew by, and Nikki is here to wrap it up with a bang!

In this episode of In the Loop, Katherine is joined by Fred Payne, CEO and President of United Way of Central Indiana, and they're discussing all things leadership, community, and the power of storytelling! Fred shares his journey from practicing law to leading workforce initiatives and overcoming personal health challenges, all while staying true to his mission of empowering others. Tune in to learn why listening beats being brilliant, how vulnerability fuels leadership, and how small wins create big impact. This episode is a feel-good reminder of the power of people-first leadership!

Get ready for a storytelling masterclass! Nikki sits down with Danielle Krischik - Partner at Knight Agency and host of the new show The Story Effect - to reveal why storytelling is the ultimate connection hack. From captivating beginnings to real, relatable moments, Danielle shares her simple storytelling formula that any leader can master. Packed with inspiration and practical tips, this episode will have you weaving unforgettable tales and building deeper connections in no time. Tune in and start crafting stories that truly stick!   Additional Resources: Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn Learn more about The Story Effect Listen to The Story Effect's pilot episode! Take the SKOR Snapshot Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways Storytelling Builds Connection: Stories spark emotions, making them a powerful tool for creating meaningful relationships and engaged teams. Simple Storytelling Formula: Captivate: Grab attention with something unexpected. Relate: Share real, relatable experiences. Motivate: Inspire action or new thinking. Go Beyond the Surface: Take time to ask deeper questions that reveal what defines people, not just what describes them. Prioritize Stories: Slow down to let meaningful stories unfold—they're worth the time and space.  

It's a special Gut + Science episode with Borshoff celebrating 40 years of people-focused leadership. Nikki chats with Borshoff partners Karen Alter, Jennifer Dzwonar, and Katherine Coble about building a company that's all heart, hustle, and a whole lot of history. Listen in as the trio breaks down the “3 C's of Legacy Leadership”—Culture, Connection, and Commitment—that have shaped Borshoff's success story. Expect stories of teamwork, fearless pivots, and a legacy rooted in founder Myra Borshoff's mantra of always putting people first. Here's to celebrating #40andForward

In this episode, Nikki chats with Eddie Geller, Founder and CEO of SKOR, the ultimate culture measurement platform. Eddie's passion for data and people shines as he reveals how SKOR helps organizations move their cultures beyond gut feelings and standard employee surveys, to real, actionable insights. Learn why culture isn't just about pizza parties and pep talks but about measurable, strategic growth built on cohesion, clarity, and courage. Which are all linked to profit and organizational productivity. Tune in to find out how your company can get its own culture SKOR and either start winning at the culture game or accelerate it!   Additional Resources: Take the SKOR Snapshot Connect with Eddie on LinkedIn Follow SKOR on LinkedIn   Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Three Pillars of Culture: Each organization's culture SKOR is based on cohesion, clarity, and courage, essential for measuring and improving workplace culture. Leader-Centric Assessment: SKOR focuses on inputs of people leaders, ensuring culture is measured among those who build it, with a business case correlating organizational improvements to potential profit Beyond Surveys: SKOR complements traditional employee surveys by addressing the leading indicators of culture rather than lagging symptoms.

In this episode, Katherine tackles one of the top fears (and no, it's not death!)—public speaking! Let's dive into practical tips for leaders who want to engage their teams and build trust every time they step up to speak. Whether it's a team meeting or a town hall, Katherine covers how to keep your message clear, connect emotionally, and boost your speaking confidence. Ready to turn those nerves into leadership superpowers? Tune in and let's make speaking fun and impactful!   Additional Resources: Listen to Amy Cuddy's TED Talk  Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Preparation is Key: Good public speaking starts with clear goals and understanding the audience's concerns. Practice, simplicity, and alignment with values make the difference. Clarity and Simplicity: Avoid technical jargon and keep the message accessible. Break down complex ideas to ensure everyone can follow along and stay engaged. Engage Emotionally: Appeal to both the rational and emotional sides of the audience, creating a connection and relevance to drive the message home. Warmth Before Competence: Prioritize warmth and trust-building, then reinforce competence. This approach helps leaders create lasting influence and respect.

Katie Donovan, founder of Camp Digital, joins Nikki to discuss creating a workplace culture fueled by genuine care and connection. Sharing her “GAS” philosophy—"Give a Sh*t"—Katie reveals how this core value drives her “three-legged stool” approach, balancing employee well-being, customer satisfaction, and company health. From family-style lunches to designing spaces for connection, Katie's insights offer a practical roadmap for leaders looking to build a culture rooted in meaning and community. Tune in to discover how “giving a sh*t” can transform your workplace.   Additional Resources: Connect with Katie Donovan on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: GAS: Give a Sh*t Philosophy: This principle underpins Camp Digital's hiring, training, and daily practices. Passion, care, and meaning are essential traits, and GAS is a non-negotiable component of their culture. The Three-Legged Stool: A balanced focus on employees, customers, and company health prevents a one-sided culture and ensures that each stakeholder's needs are addressed in daily operations. Creating Intentional Community: Family-style meals, welcoming spaces, and a central entry point help build connection and create “belonging moments” that are invaluable in a people-first culture.

Nikki speaks with Nisha Smales, a true leader in workforce strategy, to unpack one big idea: why upskilling isn't just a nice-to-have—it's an absolute must in today's lightning-fast world. Nisha's career spans continents and industries (nonprofits, McKinsey, and beyond), but one thing has stayed consistent: her passion for learning. Together, Nikki and Nisha explore the rapid-fire adoption of new technologies (hello, ChatGPT!) and what it means for your people and your business. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Nisha on LinkedIn  Key Takeaways:  Upskilling is critical in a world of rapid technological change – The pace of tech adoption, exemplified by ChatGPT reaching 100 million users in just two months, highlights the need for continuous learning. Leaders must provide structured learning opportunities – Strategic workforce education isn't just about offering courses but aligning learning programs with future business needs and employee career paths. Employer responsibility is growing – Companies need to fill the gap as traditional education systems can't keep pace with skill requirements in today's workforce.

What if AI isn't about replacing jobs, but about making work more human? That's the focus of this episode, where Nikki talks with Greg Verdino, Founder and COO of CognitivePath. With over 30 years of experience working with brands like AT&T, Coca-Cola, and IBM, Greg explains how AI can eliminate mundane tasks and allow people to focus on the strategic, creative work that truly matters. Learn to avoid common mistakes when adopting AI and how to use it to enhance—not replace—teams. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Greg Verdino on LinkedIn Key Takeaways:  AI's Role in Human Transformation: AI enhances productivity by automating routine tasks, freeing humans for more strategic, creative, and meaningful work. Mindset Shift in Leadership: Leaders must move away from measuring success solely by productivity and focus on uniquely human skills like empathy, creativity, and critical thinking. AI as a Tool for Scalability: AI can help scale processes but should complement, not replace, the human touch—especially in areas like insights and client relationships.  

In this episode of In the Loop, we're discussing something every leader dreads but inevitably faces: crisis. Whether it's sudden or a slow burn, how you communicate can make all the difference. So, how do you lead through a crisis? That's where guest, Jennifer Dzwonar, comes in. Jennifer is a crisis communication expert with over 30 years under her belt at Borshoff. Listen for practical tips on leading through tough times, from preparing a crisis plan to communicating even when you don't have all the answers. Additional Resources: Connect with Jennifer Dzwonar on LinkedIn Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways:  Internal communication should be the top priority in any crisis. Employees are often overlooked, yet they are crucial to managing the situation. Consistent messaging for internal and external audiences is vital in today's connected world. The “mixed internal” communication approach ensures transparency. Trust is built long before a crisis hits—regular, honest communication strengthens this foundation. Timing matters: leaders must act swiftly in a crisis, providing accurate updates even if full details aren't yet available. Pre-crisis planning is essential. Have a plan, practice it, and ensure your employees know it exists.  

What happens when a mission trip transforms your perspective, your relationships, and even your approach to leadership? In this episode, Nikki takes us on a journey through her life-changing experience with Homes of Hope, an organization that's built over 8,000 homes in 30 countries. Joined by the founders, Sean Lambert and Andrea East, Nikki explores how service doesn't just uplift communities—it has the power to recalibrate how we think, work, and connect with others. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Homes of Hope International Websight Contact Andrea to discuss next steps: hope@ywamsdb.org Promotional Video Homes of Hope family story Our pricing model for Homes of Hope in Mexico  Key Takeaways:  Transformative Power of Service: Serving others not only helps those in need but creates a deep bond and sense of purpose among those who give. Connection Through Immersive Service: A mission trip creates stronger relationships between coworkers by uniting them in a meaningful cause. Purpose and Impact in Leadership: Today's workforce seeks purpose beyond a paycheck—serving as a team fulfills that deeper desire for meaning and trust.

What's the secret sauce to building a culture that sticks? According to Amy Bayer, Global Director of DE&I, Employee Engagement & Culture, at Duck Creek Technologies, it's not some magic bullet—it's your people. In this episode, recorded live at CultureCon 2024, Amy sits down with Nikki to talk about how Duck Creek has created a people-first culture that thrives in a fully remote world. Spoiler alert: it's not about big budgets or fancy tools. It's about empowering employees to own culture—every single one of them. Additional Resources: Connect with Amy Bayer on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network  Key Takeaways:  Everyone Owns Culture: Culture isn't just driven by HR or leadership—it thrives when everyone has a role and feels empowered to contribute. Flexible First Approach: Duck Creek's ‘flexible first' policy prioritizes trust and allows employees to work in ways that best suit their lives, which fosters engagement and balance. Programs Without Big Budgets: Building an engaged culture doesn't require massive resources. Start small, stay intentional, and leverage the creativity of your team.

Leadership is more than a title—it's about influence. In this episode, Nikki speaks with Jess Goldberg, a leadership coach, Emmy Award winner, and lecturer at Columbia University, whose mission is to help leaders communicate with influence. Jess shares her journey from journalism to leadership training and introduces her groundbreaking concept: the eight archetypes of influence. Need a roadmap to effectively communicate with and inspire your team? Tune in for a deep dive into how communication shapes leadership and the power of influence in transforming teams and organizations. Additional Resources: Connect with Jess Goldberg Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Influence Requires Investment: Leadership influence is built over time, requiring consistent effort in building relationships, both up and down the chain of command. The 8 Archetypes of Influence: Jess developed these archetypes after years of observing leaders at top companies. These are not personality types but essential tools that leaders must employ in different situations.