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Most leaders agree that culture drives performance – but too often, it's reduced to a values exercise rather than a measurable, strategic asset. The reality is that negative workplace behaviours are among the strongest predictors of attrition, reputational damage and productivity decline. And in many cases, the warning signs are visible long before the damage becomes public.In this episode, we're joined by Charlie Sull – a globally recognised expert in corporate culture and AI. As co-founder of CultureX and a regular contributor to MIT Sloan Management Review, Charlie draws on one of the world's largest workplace culture datasets to help organisations decode what's really happening inside their walls – and take action where it matters most.He shares why culture must be measured and managed with the same rigour as financial or operational performance, and how AI is transforming the way we understand workplace dynamics.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESLearning:Learn how to understand the basics of generative AI for HR with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/40221k4Explore CultureX's thought leadership and culture champion profiles: blog.culturex.comConnect:Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kTMV8HConnect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

In a world of constant disruption, HR leaders are being asked to help people build the mindsets needed to navigate change. In this episode, leadership expert Richard Gerver — a former award-winning principal turned advisor to global organisations like Google and Deloitte — shares how HR can lead with curiosity, create psychological safety and offer stability during times of uncertainty.This conversation offers a taste of what Richard will expand on at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney this August.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESLearning opportunities:Get your ticket to AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition to hear more from Richard: https://bit.ly/4dUw42MSign up to AHRI's short course to learn how to identify the change lifecycle steps required to effectively manage change using effective change management model and frameworks: https://bit.ly/3Ti5mHYExplore Richard's books: Change, Learn to Love it, Learn to Lead it; Simple Thinking; Education: a Manifesto for Change; and Creating Tomorrow's Schools Today.Connect:Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3FR2YF0Connect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Engaging with the board is a critical skill for HR leaders — but navigating board dynamics isn't always straightforward.In this episode, we're joined by Dr Juliet Bourke, a global authority on human capital, inclusive leadership and governance. With experience advising hundreds of organisations — including Apple, the UN and BHP — and a decade as a Deloitte Partner, Juliet brings rare insight into what boards expect from HR.Whether you're board-facing now or preparing for the future, this episode will help you sharpen your strategic edge.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTES:Learning opportunities:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreTransition from operational responsibilities to visionary leadership with AHRI's Strategic HR Leader short course: https://bit.ly/4kpDqxL Learn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1droMore resources:Green shoots for change in the boardroom report (Deloitte, 2023): https://bit.ly/3ZOP397Read DrJuliet's book: Which Two Heads Are Better Than One? : https://bit.ly/4mLIIoWThe value of HR leadership at a board level (HRMOnline by Samantha Martin-Williams): https://bit.ly/4kql5ARConnect:Follow Dr Juliet Bourke on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3T8f5R0 AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Feelings of self-doubt are not uncommon – especially for leaders stepping into more senior roles or navigating spaces where they don't fit the conventional mould. But what if impostor syndrome wasn't a weakness to correct, but a signal of growth? And more importantly, what if it could be reframed as a leadership asset?In this episode, we're joined by Kemi Nekvapil – a globally recognised leadership coach, author and keynote speaker who has guided thousands of leaders to find their voice, lead with conviction and build authentic presence. She will also be taking the stage at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition this August in Sydney.If you're looking to lead with greater confidence and clarity, this conversation offers the tools to get you there.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESHear more from Kemi Nekvapil at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney from 19-21 August 2025. Register today: https://bit.ly/3HbrcKlFurther learning:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreLearn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjExplore Kemi's books 'POWER' and 'The Gift of Asking': https://bit.ly/3Fk3gUI Connect with your peers:AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuFollow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

This episode delves into the journey from HR leader to non-HR executive, exploring how to blend the strengths of HR expertise with the commercial and operational capabilities needed to lead organisations.Chris Lamb FCPHR, former Deputy Commissioner of the New South Wales Public Service Commission, reflects on his four-year tenure in the role and shares key lessons from his transition to non-HR C-suite leadership.Discover practical insights to help you prepare for a non-HR leadership position and unlock your potential for broader organisational impact.SHOW NOTESFurther learning:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreHelp to support HR leaders of the future or learn from a seasoned HR practitioner to prepare for your next step by signing up to AHRI's mentoring program (exclusive to AHRI members): https://bit.ly/3PSP2M7Learn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjConnect with your peers:AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuFollow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

In the world of HR, change is often seen as a catalyst for innovation and growth. But HR leaders also need to champion stability without stifling progress. In this episode, we explore themes from Ashley Goodall's latest book, The Problem with Change, which challenges the assumption that constant disruption is always beneficial for business. Goodall draws on his extensive experience leading people and learning functions at Deloitte and Cisco, offering practical examples and fresh insights into how perpetual change can erode employee wellbeing and performance. This is a must-listen episode for HR and business leaders alike.Show notesResources and learningAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuLearn how to manage change more effectively with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3Drj9HwFurther readingExplore Ashley Goodall's latest book: The Problem with Change And The Essential Nature of Human Performance: https://bit.ly/4gNCMIpExplore Ashley Goodall's book 'Nine Lies About Work', co-authored with Marcus Buckingham: https://bit.ly/4iLbKmrA Radical Rethink of HR (MIT Sloan article) by Ashley Goodall: https://bit.ly/4iKYcre

In this episode, we unpack the shift from viewing psychosocial safety as a compliance exercise to embracing it as a strategic imperative. Tanya Heaney-Voogt, a mentally healthy workplaces expert, shares how HR practitioners can influence and enable organisations to create environments where employees feel supported, engaged and safe to speak up.Listeners will gain practical advice on demystifying complex psychosocial concepts, fostering open dialogue and adopting sustainable work design practices. By focusing on long-term cultural and behavioral change, HR practitioners can better support leaders, balance performance pressures and enhance both people and business outcomes.Free resourcesAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members, to access a range of free templates from Tanya, including a great 1 on 1 template and a 6-step change plan template.Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuCited researchUniversity of South Australia research which includes great proof-points for getting buy in psychosocial safety initiatives: https://bit.ly/4ffFzbSAmy Edmondson's research into psychological safety: https://bit.ly/3DcnIW4Michelle McQuaid's research into thriving work cultures: https://bit.ly/3Vz3Vq4Professor Sharon Parker's research into work design: https://bit.ly/41wJVZeGallup State of the Global Workplace Report 2024: https://bit.ly/3ZAuAEaFurther reading Comcare code of Practice: https://bit.ly/41BISH8Tanya's books: Finding Equilibrium, Transforming Norm and Creating Space (coming soon: free download): https://bit.ly/3Df7s6UGood versus bad stress (HRM article): https://bit.ly/3Bs64x4

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of HR and the expanding remit of people practitioners in today's complex work environments.Isa Notermans, Chief People Officer at Fleet Space Technologies and former HR leader at Spotify, Airtasker and Google, shares her insights on how HR can move beyond transactional functions to become trusted strategic advisors.Listeners will gain practical advice on fostering collaboration across the business, leveraging data and storytelling to influence decision-making, and redefining HR's role to drive both people and business outcomes.Further learning and resourcesAustralian HR Capability Framework: https://bit.ly/4g4RJ8mPosition yourself for an HR leadership position with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjLearn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1droNot yet an AHRI member? Sign up for resources, networks and learning opportunities to help you build careers that have an impact – https://bit.ly/3Vhu50oFurther reading/listening:Learn more about Isa via this HRM profile article: https://bit.ly/4eMSHpAHear more about aligning your business strategy with your DEI initiatives in this podcast episode with Liz Griffin FCPHR: https://bit.ly/3B2qMU1Hear more about how to take care of your own wellbeing as an HR practitioner with this podcast episode from Dr Adam Fraser: https://bit.ly/3AYK8cJ

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of deep listening and how it can elevate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategies beyond surface-level intent. Liz Griffin, a seasoned DEI leader with experience at Qantas, Commonwealth Bank, EY and Minderoo Foundation, explores the nuances of building inclusive cultures, navigating DEI maturity and crafting strategies that resonate with business objectives. Listeners will gain real-world examples and practical advice to help HR leaders make impactful, systemic change in their organisations.

As the HR profession continues to evolve, the competencies required for effective HR leadership are quickly becoming more complex and wide-ranging.  In AHRI's latest podcast episode, host Beth Hall FCPHR, speaks with Tiffany Blight CPHR, First Assistant Secretary – People and Culture at the Department of Home Affairs, about how practitioners can arm themselves with the right skills to thrive in HR leadership roles. In this episode, you'll learn: Key capabilities for aspiring HR leaders Practical steps to build these skills and experiences Tips for positioning yourself for leadership roles in HR. SHOW NOTES Let us know what you think of the podcast so far. Take our 2-minute survey to share your feedback with us: ⁠https://bit.ly/47yzZiN⁠ ⁠Access the episode transcript here – https://bit.ly/3zpjp8p⁠

Around 15% of the population identify as neurodivergent. However, this is sometimes invisible within organisations, often because employees don't feel safe enough to disclose their neurodivergence to their employer.  In this episode, we speak with Aron Mercer, founding team member at Xceptional, a social enterprise that creates meaningful careers for neurodivergent individuals, about how to create safe, neuro-inclusive cultures. In this episode, you'll learn: How to combat the fear of getting it wrong. Practical ways that HR practitioners can factor neurodiversity inclusion into the employee lifecycle. How to avoid tokenistic initiatives and instead have a meaningful, positive impact on employees' experience at work. TRANSCRIPT Access the episode transcript here: https://bit.ly/4ccg7Cz SHOW NOTES

HR practitioners are often tasked with 'fixing' cultural issues, but as Siobhan McHale, Executive General Manager of People, Culture and Change at Dulux, asserts, they are actually the culture leaders. They set the stage and equip leaders and managers with the tools needed to authentically and effectively embody organisational values. In this episode, you'll discover: * How to frame HR roles for greater impact at the executive level * Ways to embrace group intelligence within organisations * Insights into her seven-year culture transformation project at ANZ Bank, turning it from Australia's worst-performing financial institution to one of the best SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Ravin Jesuthasan, global thought leader and Senior Partner and Global Leader for Transformation Services at Mercer, talks about how HR practitioners can navigate the evolving skills landscape. You'll learn how to take advantage of the shift towards skills-based hiring, how AI might reinvent the graduate-level position, and models and frameworks to think about skills and job design as a small, medium or large-sized business. View the episode transcript here. SHOW NOTES

HR is an incredibly rewarding profession, tackling some of the most pressing workplace challenges, from navigating layoffs to meeting the high expectations of leaders and employees. But this kind of work can take a toll. In this episode, we speak with Dr Adam Fraser, peak performance researcher and workplace wellbeing expert, to explore how HR can care for their own mental health and wellbeing as they navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. In this episode, you'll learn how Dr Fraser's research on vicarious trauma in the education sector can be applied to HR , along with some valuable, research-backed tips to help manage your mental health. TRANSCRIPT View here. SHOW NOTES

A key part of being an effective HR practitioner is about building strong, strategic and trusting relationships with key stakeholders in order to build your influence and help move your organisation towards its goals. In this episode, coaching expert and author Michael Bungay Stanier shares insights from his latest book 'How to work with (almost) anyone' and provides listeners with insights to make their relationships at work stronger and more resilient. SHOW NOTES

In a world where the HR profession has been elevated to new heights, how can HR professionals maintain the momentum they've gained over the past few years to continue adding strategic value to a business's long-term goals?  In this episode, we speak with Lucy Adams, CEO of Disruptive HR and former HR Director at the BBC, who shares her thoughts on fresh ways to think about HR, including her EACH framework, (which stands for Employees as Adults, Consumers and Humans), and shares practical examples of different ways organisations are trialling new ways of working.

In episode two of AHRI's new podcast, host Shelley Johnson speaks with McKinsey and Company's Expert Associate Partner Rod Farmer about how HR professionals can get cut through with their learning and development programs. We're moving from a jobs-based economy to a skills-based economy, says Farmer, which is why we need to rethink how we embed the right skills in our organisations. He shares useful frameworks and an interesting case study from some work he's done with the Department of Regional NSW to create more digital literacy within its workforce.  Show notes

In the inaugural episode of AHRI's brand-new podcast, host and HR professional Shelley Johnson talks all things culture with Shane Hatton, a culture and leadership expert and author. Shane shares a range of helpful frameworks, a case study and practical advice that any HR professional listening can take away and apply to their organisation after listening – no matter what industry you work in. TRANSCRIPT SHOW NOTES