People Strategy Forum

Alfredo Borodowski – The Human Upgrade: New Leadership for the AI RevolutionWhat if the real upgrade leaders need in the AI revolution isn't technical — but human?In this episode of the People/AI Strategy Forum, Sam Reeve sits down with writer and leadership voice Alfredo Borodowski to explore a bold idea: as artificial intelligence expands, what will distinguish great organizations isn't better algorithms — it's better humans.Alfredo shares his deeply personal journey — from professional success in Manhattan to public collapse, depression, and rebuilding through positive psychology. That experience reshaped his mission: helping leaders and organizations discover their strengths, clarify their purpose, and build the psychological capital required to thrive in uncertain times.As AI begins competing not just with what we do — but with who we are — Alfredo argues that the “human pie” may shrink in some ways, but human qualities like empathy, trust, resilience, and meaning will become more scarce — and therefore more valuable.In this conversation, we explore:Why AI is competing with human identity — not just human laborThe concept of the “Human Upgrade” in the AI eraWhy character strengths awareness unlocks exponential growthThe four pillars of psychological capital: hope, optimism, resilience, and self-efficacyHow purpose drives engagement in disengaged workforcesWhy trust is the defining leadership currency of the AI revolutionThe difference between technical efficiency and human flourishingHow leaders can reduce techno-stress while increasing performanceAlfredo also shares practical tools, including strengths discovery, purpose mapping, and building cultures of psychological trust — all backed by positive psychology research.Key takeaway:AI may equalize technology — but humanity will differentiate companies.Leaders who invest in judgment, meaning, resilience, and trust will attract talent, retain top performers, and navigate disruption with confidence.If this episode challenged your thinking, subscribe, rate, and share it with a colleague leading through AI transformation.Guest: Alfredo Borodowski Host: Sam Reeve, CEO of CompTeam Show: People/AI Strategy Forum (powered by CompTeam)If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

Michael Hunter — Leading from the Inside Out: The Science of Calm in Chaotic TimesWhat if calm isn't the absence of chaos — but your competitive advantage?In this episode of the People/AI Strategy Forum, Sam Reeve sits down with Michael Hunter, author of The Resilient Tech Leader, to explore how leaders can metabolize turbulence instead of being consumed by it.As AI accelerates change, urgency multiplies, and burnout rises, many leaders feel like everything is a priority — which makes everything impossible. Michael shares a science-backed, field-tested approach to building calm from the inside out so you can make cleaner decisions, execute consistently, and help your team do their best work — even when the fire alarms are blaring.Drawing from his background in high-pressure tech environments, Michael explains why the most important system you'll ever upgrade isn't your tech stack — it's you.In this episode, we cover:Why multitasking destroys effectiveness (and what to do instead)How to triage chaos in 10 minutesThe hidden cost of context switchingA practical one-page focus routine to protect your attentionThe power of “tiny experiments” to build resilienceHow to align heart, mind, body, and spirit in leadershipWhy anxiety about the future is often a confidence gapThe “chain of meaning” exercise to clarify what really mattersHow leaders can design a legacy that outlives their titleMichael reframes resilience as a learnable process — not a personality trait. Through small steps, lightweight rituals, and awareness of your “notice me nudges,” you can build the internal steadiness required to lead in chaotic times.Key takeaway:You don't need perfect calm to lead well. You just need the next tiny step.If this conversation resonates, subscribe, rate, and share with a leader who needs to hear it.Guest: Michael Hunter, Author of The Resilient Tech Leader Host: Sam Reeve, CEO of CompTeam Show: People/AI Strategy Forum (powered by CompTeam)If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

Tony Thelen — Calm Leadership in a Noisy World: AI, Automation, and the New DesiderataWhat if the real competitive advantage in an AI-accelerated world isn't speed — but calm?In this episode of the People/AI Strategy Forum, Sam Reeve (CEO of CompTeam) sits down with Tony Thelen, a leadership guide and executive coach who helps leaders navigate digital overwhelm with grounded presence and ethical clarity. Together, they explore why leaders who can slow the human system while technology speeds up will be the ones who earn trust, retain top talent, and sustain performance in 2026 and beyond.Tony draws from the timeless wisdom of the Desiderata poem — including the line “go placidly amid the noise and haste” — and reframes calm leadership as a strategic capability, not complacency.In this conversation, we cover:Why calm leadership is a performance advantage in the AI eraHow to lead through crisis without manufacturing “fake calm”The role of truth-telling and transparency in building trustEarly warning signs that chaos is creeping into an organizationHow leaders can be agile and decisive while staying composedWhy “sense, adapt, respond” is a resilience habit for individuals and teamsHow to retain top performers during uncertainty by giving them ownership and agencyTony's daily grounding practice: “Tony time” — a quiet hour that becomes a leadership superpowerTony also shares insights from his book Things We Desire: The Desiderata Turns 100, where he unpacks 30 values found within the poem — including calm, wisdom, prudence, contentment, and serenity — and turns them into practical reflection prompts for modern life and leadership.Key takeaway:In a noisy, automated world, calm leadership isn't a retreat — it's a responsibility.Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with a colleague — and choose one way this week to lead with calm instead of haste.Guest: Tony Thelen Host: Sam Reeve, CEO of CompTeam Show: People/AI Strategy Forum (powered by CompTeam)If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

What if accountability isn't the problem—but the way leaders practice it is?In this episode of the People/AI Strategy Forum, Sam Reeve and Sumit Saha sit down with Kelly Price, Founder of Thrive HR, to explore how leaders can raise performance standards without creating burnout, disengagement, or fear.As organizations head into 2026, many managers feel trapped between two bad options: being so lenient that performance slips, or being so rigid that trust erodes. Kelly shares real-world examples and practical frameworks that show how accountability, flexibility, and empathy can coexist—when leaders set clear expectations, give timely feedback, and truly understand their people.This conversation covers:Why accountability systems often fail—and how to fix themHow clear expectations reduce burnout and improve engagementThe role of leadership training in improving retention and performanceWhy feedback should happen in real time, not just during reviewsHow leaders can support people without lowering standardsIf you're a founder, executive, or HR leader navigating rapid change, hybrid work, and rising burnout, this episode offers grounded insights you can apply immediately.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, people strategy, and the future of work.If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

As organizations accelerate their use of AI and automation, one critical question remains: where does human judgment still matter most?In this episode of the People/AI Strategy Forum, Sam Reeve is joined by Brian Beckcom to explore why leadership, experience, and human discernment cannot be replaced by algorithms alone. While AI can improve efficiency and decision support, Brian argues that judgment, ethics, and accountability must remain firmly in human hands.This conversation unpacks the limits of automation, the risks of over-reliance on data-driven systems, and the leadership capabilities required to balance technology with responsibility. Together, Sam and Brian discuss how leaders can leverage AI without surrendering the human elements that drive trust, culture, and long-term performance.This episode is especially relevant for executives, founders, and HR leaders navigating AI adoption while remaining accountable for people, outcomes, and organizational integrity. Key Topics Covered:The limits of AI and algorithmic decision-makingWhy human judgment remains essential in leadershipAccountability, ethics, and decision ownership in AI-enabled organizationsBalancing automation with trust and cultureWhat leaders must retain control over as AI adoption growsIf you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

Thriving as a Woman in LeadershipFeaturing Shauna MoranWhat does it take to truly thrive as a woman in leadership today?In this episode of the People Strategy Forum, Shauna Moran joins the conversation to discuss the realities women face in leadership roles—including visibility, expectations, and influence—and what it takes to lead with confidence, authenticity, and impact.Shauna shares insights from her professional journey and offers practical guidance on building executive presence, navigating leadership challenges, and developing the support systems that help women succeed. The discussion also explores how organizations can create cultures that empower women leaders and support long-term growth and engagement.In this episode, we cover:Leadership challenges commonly faced by womenBuilding confidence and executive presenceLeading authentically while managing expectationsThe role of mentorship, sponsorship, and alliesCreating workplace cultures where women leaders can thriveThis episode is ideal for executives, HR leaders, and people strategists committed to developing inclusive leadership and strengthening the future of work.If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

Ready to understand the real engine of a high-performing company? We're taking a deep dive into the critical culture reset and uncovering why fairness is your organization's greatest hidden performance asset. Join us as we chat with Celeste Warren, a globally recognized leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who now runs a consulting practice dedicated to integrating inclusive practices into people strategies and business operations. Celeste breaks down the most common equity blind spots across talent systems—from the "lazy" route of AI recruiting to combatting proximity bias in performance reviews and ensuring you hire for long-term potential, not just "fit for purpose." This conversation simplifies the complex, providing pragmatic, actionable advice to help every leader build a genuinely equitable and innovative workplace.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!If you enjoyed this episode, follow the People/AI Strategy Forum on your preferred podcast platform and join the conversation! About the People/AI Strategy Forum The People/AI Strategy Forum explores how leaders navigate the intersection of people strategy, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Hosted by Sam Reeve, Founder & CEO of CompTeam, the Forum features conversations with executives, practitioners, and experts shaping the future of work. Learn more about CompTeam and the People/AI Strategy Forum at compteam.net.

Workplaces should not always be all about serious work – sometimes, you also need a bit of fun to keep your sanity and identify areas of improvement in the most interesting ways. Joining the People Strategy Forum is Jolynn D. Ledgerwood, Founder of Elevate Your Talent, who shares how she uses LEGO® bricks to redefine and elevate workflows and systems. She emphasizes the need for real human connection to break through limiting beliefs and redesign organizational strategies, particularly in this age of AI and automation. Jolynn also explains how to address AI anxiety and the right way to tap into your creative brainpower to build a better and more human workplace.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Before they can achieve success, every great leader needs someone to teach them about mastering their craft and building their confidence. But in today's world of rapid change, social disconnection, and digital overload, is mentorship disappearing? Colleen Stanley, a highly respected leadership expert, joins the People Strategy Forum to explore the crisis in mentorship we are experiencing in this age of automation. Discussing her book, "Be The Mentor Who Mattered," she presents practical habits leaders can integrate into their daily lives to rekindle the spark of mentorship culture. Colleen also discusses how to maintain genuine connections despite the rampant use of AI tools, putting human mentorship at the center of ever-evolving tech innovation.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Trust under pressure isn't just a leadership challenge, it's a defining moment that determines whether teams shut down or rise together. In this conversation, Darryl Stickel, Ph.D., shares the lessons behind decades of research, advising government leaders, executives, and communities on how trust breaks, how it's rebuilt, and why silence, uncertainty, and fear are often symptoms of unmet emotional and psychological needs rather than resistance. He breaks down his ten trust-building levers, the difference between ability, integrity, and benevolence, and how leaders can reduce uncertainty, create psychological safety, and open space for honest dialogue and performance. Whether you're navigating change, leading through complexity, or rebuilding confidence after breakdown, this episode offers a grounded, human framework for restoring trust and strengthening relationships.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Future-ready leadership begins with mindset, not machines. This conversation with Allister Frost brings that truth into sharp focus. In this powerful discussion, Allister shares his journey from leading digital strategy at Microsoft to helping global leaders navigate a rapidly accelerating AI world without losing their humanity, clarity, or confidence. He breaks down why tools alone cannot transform culture, why many organizations are unknowingly building the wrong AI strategy, and why curiosity, communication, and creativity have become the essential skills for the modern workforce. Allister also introduces the ReadyAlready® Growth Cycle, his simple framework for staying adaptable, innovative, and grounded through constant technological change. This is a practical, energizing roadmap for anyone preparing themselves, their teams, and their organizations for what comes next.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

One of the best ways to retain the best talent in your organization is to constantly make them feel seen and appreciated. By providing sustainable rewards on a regular basis, you help ensure that everyone in the team finds purpose and fulfilment in the work that they do. Joining the People Strategy Forum is Chinmay Malaviya, co-founder and CEO of Ridepanda, which provides personal e-bikes and scooters as a form of company benefit. He explains how this type of employee perk crushes commute stress, lowers parking costs, and helps cut down carbon emissions. Chinmay also presents strategies on rolling out this reward program in their own organizations successfully, inspiring everyone to live healthier lives inside and outside of work.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

A truly magnetic culture doesn't happen by accident—it's built through intentional hiring, onboarding, and retention. Ryan Englin, CEO of Core Matters and author of Hire Better People Faster, shares how his Core Fit Hiring System helps small businesses attract the right people, inspire long-term loyalty, and become employers of choice. From shifting recruiting out of HR and into marketing, to creating onboarding that drives performance, to aligning company goals with employees' personal dreams, Englin lays out the blueprint for cultivating a workplace culture so magnetic that top talent seeks it out.

Getting a promotion at work requires more than just hard work. It demands a strategic understanding of power, politics, and influence. Michael Wenderoth, an executive coach, Stanford MBA, host of the 97% Effective podcast, and author of Get Promoted, challenges the common belief that promotions come solely from merit. He emphasizes the importance of developing relationships, understanding power dynamics, and utilizing politics and influence ethically. Michael shares a three-step roadmap and a snowball strategy. This path helps build credibility, expand your network, and gain momentum without compromising your values. He provides essential insights for individuals seeking career advancement. He also helps leaders cultivate a culture of promotion and retention.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Avoiding conflict at all costs may not always be the best course of action to take for your organization. Sometimes, you can use it as your greatest leadership tool. Dr. Larry Schooler of The University of Texas at Austin joins the People Strategy Forum to discuss how healthy conflict can unlock creativity, deepen trust, and reenergize a workplace culture. He explains the right way to manage emotional temperature and the importance of clear communication in dealing with conflict. Dr. Larry also explores the future role of AI tools in conflict management, forever transforming how humans resolve their differences.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Leadership is often riddled with a long list of challenges and problems, and these lead to tons of friction. Frankie Berkoben, executive coach for overwhelmed and ADHD leaders in tech, explores how to turn cognitive chaos into creative brilliance. In this conversation with People Strategy Forum, she explains how understanding your executive functions and taking care of your human operating systems can help you work flawlessly even during your most stressful moments. Frankie also emphasizes why having a neurodivergent mind should be seen not as a leadership setback but as a superpower that unlocks even bigger opportunities.

Workplace culture isn't just a buzzword—it's your biggest competitive advantage. In this episode, workplace culture expert S. Chris Edmonds, founder of The Purposeful Culture Group and author of The Culture Engine and Good Comes First, shares a roadmap for how leaders can create respectful, results-driven cultures where people actually want to work. From uncovering toxic behaviors to formalizing values-based behaviors and holding leadership accountable, S. Chris breaks down how to align, refine, and sustain a healthy organizational culture. Whether you're leading a team or transforming a company, this conversation reveals the key actions to build a culture where both people and profits thrive.

PowerUp Leadership is more than motivation—it's a framework for energizing your people, your culture, and your impact. Corporate Energy Expert Kathy Parry brings decades of frontline experience to this dynamic conversation about building resilient teams and sustainable momentum. From burnout recovery to trust-building, Kathy shares her signature PowerUp Principles and explores how leaders can create joyful, purpose-driven workplaces where people stay, grow, and thrive—even through rapid change and uncertainty.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Trust in the workplace isn't just a value—it's a strategy. Dr. Yoram Solomon, renowned researcher, prolific author, and the mind behind The Book of Trust, breaks down how building trust unlocks innovation, fuels creativity, and transforms leadership effectiveness. From managing remote teams to handling constructive feedback and navigating leadership missteps, Yoram offers a radically honest and data-backed approach to cultivating trust. With real stories from the battlefield to the boardroom, he shows why trust is the foundation leaders can't afford to ignore.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Navigating the complexities of change management in the age of AI demands more than just technical know-how; it requires a deep understanding of the human element. Join us as distinguished leadership expert Dan Roberts, founder of Impactful Performance and the visionary behind the transformative Sea Change method, dives deep into how leaders can master effective transitions. Dan shares invaluable insights on strategically preparing teams for AI integration, championing transparent communication, and nurturing emotional readiness to truly thrive amidst unprecedented disruption. Discover how to transform potential pitfalls into powerful catalysts for organizational growth and individual empowerment.

Wondering if you are still the future in the age of AI? This conversation challenges founders and executives to stay human, relevant, and true to what great leadership requires: curiosity, courage, and connection. Join us as Sam Reeve welcomes Piers Fallowfield-Cooper, an executive coach and mentor with decades of experience guiding top executives through reinventions, reckonings, and revolutions, and author of Are You Still the Future? Learn how to lead with heart and persevere to stay on the leading edge in our fast-changing world.

Designing equitable workplace culture starts with rethinking how power, rewards, and mindsets shape human systems. Shree Lakshmi, a researcher, strategist, and designer at Optimistic Design, shares how organizations can transform internal processes by co-creating solutions with the very people impacted by them. With a background spanning global health, education, and government innovation, she reveals how inclusive design and systems thinking uncover the root causes of disengagement and empower leaders to create cultures of true belonging, alignment, and impact.

The blueprint of a thriving workplace lies in integrating design with human needs. Learn how architectural design can elevate people and drive performance from Marilee Lloyd, Associate Principal and the National Laboratory Planning Leader at HED, one of the nation's top architectural and engineering firms. Marilee shares her 35 years of experience in creating environments where science thrives, talent sticks around, and breakthroughs spark. Discover how human-centered design, flexible spaces, and technological integration can create an integrated environment that supports diverse needs and propels organizations forward.

Financial wellness shouldn't mean giving up everything you love, and Gordon Stein, author of Cashflow Cookbook, proves just that. A former executive at Apple, Dell, and many more, Gordon brings his engineering smarts to the world of personal finance, sharing practical, minimal-sacrifice strategies for building wealth and reducing stress. He reveals how to transform your relationship with money, emphasizing simple changes to everyday expenses rather than restrictive budgeting. Gordon joins the conversation to discuss empowering employees to achieve financial peace of mind, ultimately driving performance, loyalty, and a more focused workplace, while making the journey straightforward and stress-free.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Human resources is not just about policies anymore, but driving businesses forward in an unpredictable post-pandemic world. Rhiannon Albert, Founder of My Trusted HR, has dedicated herself to building future-proof HR teams. In this conversation with the People Strategy Forum, she discusses why HR departments must always be flexible to keep up with today's rapidly changing work culture, especially after the massive changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rhiannon also shares practical tips on how companies should embrace strategic leadership and an employee-first mindset to attract and retain only the best talent.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Companies know how to measure their KPIs and finances, but only a few pay attention to measuring their team's well-being. Culture architect Mark S. Babbitt is leading the charge to make a significant change in workplaces by teaching leaders how to build a respectful culture. In this conversation with the People Strategy Forum, he explores the undeniable benefits of respect-driven leadership in boosting teamwork, retention, and productivity. Mark also discusses how to use a company's core values in encouraging everyone to perform at their best, as well as the right way to take accountability and cultivate integrity in the workplace.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Executive networking is more than just exchanging business cards; it's about creating a powerful support system and a confidential space for growth. In this episode, we dive deep with Dona Amelia, co-founder of the Executive Global Network (EGN), one of the world's largest executive networks, spanning Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Dona shares her unique journey from singer and actress to building a thriving community for nearly 1,000 senior executives. We explore the invaluable benefits of peer networking, the power of vulnerability among leaders, and how EGN provides a safe, ethical space for sharing challenges, gaining diverse perspectives, and even forging new business partnerships across countries. Join us as we uncover the secrets to effective executive networking and why it's essential for leaders to avoid feeling "Lonely at the Top."Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Interim leadership is a strategic solution for companies navigating change and ensuring business continuity, a topic we delve into deeply in this episode. We're joined by John Gates, founder of Salary.Coach and a seasoned talent acquisition expert with decades of experience in Fortune 500 companies. John, who has been behind countless executive hires and has also stepped in to provide interim leadership and HR solutions, shares invaluable insights on how companies can effectively utilize interim leaders to maintain momentum and mitigate risk during periods of change. We explore the advantages of bringing in temporary leadership, the skills required for success in such roles, and how professionals can leverage interim positions as a strategic career move. Whether you're a senior leader, an HR professional, or an individual navigating your career path, this conversation with John Gates offers a masterclass in strategic talent management and leadership continuity.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Are your virtual meetings putting people to sleep—or are they driving real impact? In this episode of the People Strategy Forum, we sit down with John Chen, CEO of Geoteaming and author of Engaging Virtual Meetings. With over 35 years of experience, two US patents, and a track record of producing game-changing virtual events for thousands, John reveals the secrets to making remote and hybrid teams thrive. You'll discover how to boost executive presence in virtual settings, strategies for creating immersive and memorable online experiences, and cutting-edge Zoom tips that 99% of users miss. If you're ready to turn your virtual meetings into high-performing, engaging powerhouses, you won't want to miss John's expert insights. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

What if the key to transforming your leadership isn't in your strategies, but in your mindset?In this episode of the People Strategy Forum, we're diving into the power of a growth mindset with leadership consultant Dr. Karolin Helbig. With a background in science and years of consulting for top executives at McKinsey, Karolin brings a unique blend of analytical precision and emotional intelligence to the conversation. She reveals how leaders can break free from fixed thinking, embrace failures as learning opportunities, and use psychological safety and empathetic language to foster innovative, resilient teams. Whether you're leading a small business or a global organization, Karolin's insights will help you reshape challenges into catalysts for growth—both for yourself and your team. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Ever feel like your business is stuck in a frustrating loop? Effectively resolving business issues is the escape hatch, and Chris Davenport's story is your guide. He's not your typical guru. He's a tech enthusiast who stumbled into entrepreneurship and then hit a wall at $10 million. Instead of giving up, he discovered EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and completely transformed his company. Chris delivers real-world strategies for building high-performing teams, making tough decisions with confidence, and fostering the kind of open communication that actually gets results. If you're ready to break free from the plateau and finally unlock the growth your business deserves, dive into this episode.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Inclusive leadership isn't just a buzzword — it's the foundation of thriving, innovative teams. In this episode, Minette Norman, speaker, consultant, and author of The Boldly Inclusive Leader, shares her powerful insights on creating work cultures where every voice is heard and valued. Drawing from her decades of experience in Silicon Valley, Minette explores how embracing diverse perspectives, fostering psychological safety, and showing up as a consistent, empathetic leader can unlock the full potential of your team. Whether you're leading a small group or a global organization, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to help you lead with authenticity and drive lasting change.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Are you ready to elevate your leadership game? In this episode of the People Strategy Forum, we dive into the art of enhancing leadership through conversation with Ronen Olshansky of Connected Success. With a wealth of experience coaching CEOs and leadership teams — and a background spanning Wall Street, tech, and consulting — Ronen reveals how building authentic relationships and fostering team trust can skyrocket your leadership impact. Discover how strategic conversations, vulnerability, and generosity create a culture of connection, and learn the high-return practices that drive team success. Tune in and unlock the power of relationships to lead more effectively!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

True leadership is tested in crisis, not in comfort. In this episode, Stoyan `Yankov, productivity coach, speaker, and bestselling author of PERFORM in Times of Crisis, shares practical strategies for leading effectively when everything feels uncertain. Drawing from his experience working with over 300 companies across 35+ countries, Stoyan reveals how to keep teams resilient, manage emotional temperatures, and make decisive moves under pressure. He also explores how great leaders build a culture of preparedness, select the right people for high-pressure environments, and turn setbacks into strategic opportunities. Whether you're leading a business, a team, or yourself, these insights will help you not just survive—but thrive—when things get tough.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Leadership is an ever-evolving journey, and understanding its true essence requires a fresh perspective. In this episode, we explore the path to leadership with Dr. Oleg Konovalov, often called the da Vinci of visionary leadership. Drawing from his experiences on deep-sea trawlers, Oleg shares insights from The Fishman's Path to Leadership, revealing how the unpredictability of nature mirrors the challenges leaders face. Join us as we uncover how shifting our perspective—much like a fish views a fly—can redefine how we lead, communicate, and create lasting impact.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Jason Yarusi's journey is a testament to the power of embracing a transformative mindset, rooted in his 'Live 100' culture—a philosophy that champions long-term growth, purposeful living, and sustainable success. In this episode, Jason reveals how a near-fatal accident forced him to confront his dissatisfaction and build a life of purpose. He dives deep into the core principles of his 'Live 100' culture: self-awareness, owning your reality, and positioning yourself for greatness. Tune in to learn how to apply these principles to your own life and achieve peak performance in all areas.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Beat burnout and ignite productivity! In this episode, distinguished wellness expert Janice Litvin, author of Banish Burnout Toolkit and Banish Organizational Burnout: 26 Tips for Managers, shares powerful strategies for combating workplace burnout. Janice emphasizes the critical role of mental health, open communication, and early recognition of employee stress. Get practical tips for creating a thriving work environment where everyone wins!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Evolving your brand requires more than just facts and figures – it demands compelling narratives that resonate with your audience. Stephen Steers, author of Superpower Storytelling, dives deep into the art of using narrative to evolve your brand and inspire action. With over a decade of sales experience, Stephen offers a practical framework for crafting compelling stories that engage audiences, strengthen connections, and drive results. He explores the science behind effective stories, outlines key story types every leader should know, and offers tips on building a story bank. Tune in to discover how to leverage the power of storytelling to transform your leadership and your brand.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

What happens when the grit of athletic competition meets the power of leadership? In this episode, Matthew Mitchell, former head coach of the University of Kentucky Women's Basketball team and now CEO of The Winning Tools, tackles the topic of success through preparation and the importance of always being ready to win. Matthew shares his incredible journey—from overcoming life's unexpected challenges to redefining success both on and off the court. Discover how his principles of honesty, hard work, and discipline have shaped his leadership philosophy, and hear how he's now transforming those lessons into strategies for businesses and leaders everywhere. Don't miss this dynamic discussion filled with wisdom, resilience, and actionable insights to help you prepare for success in any environment.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Tired of spending your nights and weekends rewriting your team's reports and presentations? Communication expert Davina Stanley shares her expertise on how to elevate your team's reports and presentations. Leveraging her experience in structured thinking and communication, Davina highlights the importance of clear messaging, strategic framing, and audience understanding. She introduces the RISE framework (Ready, Iterate, Settle, Embed) as a tool for leaders to help their teams create impactful communications without sacrificing time on endless revisions. Tune in to learn how to transform your team's communication and achieve greater impact.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Work is often the number one cause of overwhelm, busyness, and misery in our everyday lives. The unfortunate culture of over work must be put to an end, and Brigid Schulte is here to discuss what it takes to finally get rid of the unhealthy daily grind. In this episode, the director of Better Life Lab explains how business leaders must focus more on creating supportive work environments for their employees, where outcomes and impact are valued more than work hours and presence alone. Brigid also stresses the importance of integrating transparency, honesty, and growth into the work culture, giving everyone equal access to professional development centered on sustainability and equity.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Seasoned recruiter and salary negotiation coach John Gates reveals insider secrets to help you master salary negotiations and land your dream job. John, the best-selling author of Act Your Wage and founder of Recruiting Transformations, shares his journey through the ups and downs of the recruiting world, including multiple layoffs and the challenges of navigating corporate ladders. He provides invaluable insights into the emotional side of hiring, revealing how to connect with hiring managers, understand their fears, and ultimately become the candidate they cannot resist. Get ready to ditch the fear and unlock your earning potential!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

DJ the Money Coach is today's trusted guide to financial wellness, empowering you with the knowledge to make smart investments and achieve your financial goals. Join him in this episode as he dives into the crucial financial steps many founders often overlook when launching a business. DJ stresses why prioritizing financial wellness is key in business building and provides smart strategies for insurance and retirement planning. He also explains how founders should pay more attention to employee financial wellness through education and support, leading to increased well-being and productivity.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Every business must set a firm structure around growth and development to ensure every team member has equal access to continuous learning. Brian O'Neill is here to present his very own development tool kit that could help foster a culture of learning in your own organization. He explains how leaders must prioritize the human aspect to achieve a more innovative, well-rounded, and successful team. Brian also details how to create a workplace environment where continuous learning is not just encouraged but deeply embedded into the very fabric of the organization, which results in better talent management and retention.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Discover the secrets to standing out in a crowded job market with the power of personal branding. In this episode, Tom Powner, the visionary Founder and CEO of Career Thinker, shares his inspiring journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, driven by personal challenges and a passion for helping others find fulfilling careers. He dives deep into the critical role of personal branding in today's competitive job market, emphasizing the power of authenticity and value-driven content across all platforms, especially LinkedIn. Tom provides actionable strategies for crafting a compelling online presence that resonates with recruiters and hiring managers, ultimately leading to career success.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Every business dreams of experiencing that exhilarating hockey stick growth where success skyrockets, but what does it truly take to achieve it? Tom Gratian, founder of Gratian Group, shares the secrets to achieving explosive hockey stick growth by focusing on top talent, laser-sharp strategy, and the game-changing power of AI. He provides actionable insights on how to identify and secure A-players, develop effective leadership, and foster a winning culture, all while navigating the unique challenges of rapid growth. Tune in to discover how to unlock your company's full potential and achieve phenomenal growth.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Culture expert Peter Phelan of ValuesCulture joins us to discuss the critical role of cultivating the right organizational culture in securing business success. He emphasizes the impact of healthy cultures on the shape and performance of your team, specifically talent attraction, and retention. He outlines his data-driven approach to defining and implementing values within an organization, ensuring they actually resonate with the people and not simply remain words on the wall. Peter also exposes the common pitfalls in culture building and offers practical advice on tackling disruptive behaviors.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Discover the power of optimizing mindset to unlock your team's full potential and create a thriving workplace. Leadership coach Nadia Menov dives deep into this concept and explains how it can completely transform your workplace culture. She shares her unique RISE framework for understanding your team, identifying positive behaviors, and building a shared vision. Packed with practical strategies for open communication and psychological safety, this episode empowers you to create a culture where every team member feels valued and driven to achieve amazing results.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Elevate your employee experiences and create a workplace people love. Brad Norwood, the visionary founder of DreamIT, reveals the secrets to crafting unforgettable experiences within the workplace that boost retention and spark passion. Discover how their company helps other companies create magnetic cultures through personalized incentive travel programs, inspiring employees to stay and perform at their best. Brad also emphasizes the power of personal experiences over cash rewards by sharing practical tips on building a culture of achievement and recognition.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Getting yourself into difficult conversations has become commonplace in today's extremely divided world. With everyone having their own opinions, beliefs, and perspectives, you will always meet someone who disagrees with you. Leadership speaker, author, and entrepreneur Justin Jones-Fosu joins the People Strategy Forum to discuss how to find common ground and respectfully disagree with others. He explains why this approach is highly needed to create healthy organizational structures and build better manager-employee relationships. Justin also talks about the dangers of toxic positivity, the benefits of implementing an out-the-door policy, and the concept of Golden Respect.

In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, traditional linear leadership models are proving insufficient. The future of effective leadership lies in embracing non-linear thinking, which fosters creativity, adaptability, and human connection. In this episode, Perry Knoppert, founder of The Octopus Movement, recounts his transformative journey from homelessness to pioneering a new approach to leadership through non-linear thinking. He reveals how embracing non-linear thinking and celebrating neurodiversity can unlock hidden potential and drive innovation. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and discover a fresh perspective on what it means to be a leader in today's world.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!