Vantage Influencers Podcast

For years, HR has often been seen as the department that enforces policies, handles compliance, and occasionally gets blamed for saying 'no' too often. But that perception? It's evolving and so is the impact HR has on business.  In today's episode, we're digging into a conversation that's long overdue: HR as a business enabler. What does it really mean to move beyond policy policing and step into a role that drives business strategy, growth, and innovation?  To explore this transformation, we're joined by Shiroz Hamid, Human Resources Manager at Bukhatir Group, who brings a grounded, real-world perspective on how HR can move from the sidelines to the strategic core of an organization.  Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z don't just want a job with good pay and benefits.  They're looking for a more holistic experience. One that aligns with their values, supports their lifestyle, and, most importantly, makes them feel valued as individuals.  This shift is forcing companies to rethink traditional rewards structures. So, having a conversation on this shift is important and that's exactly what we will explore in this episode.  Joining me is Ravi Shankar Singh, HR Head at Lifestyle International Pvt. Ltd. He brings a wealth of experience and insight into how organizations can evolve their total rewards strategies to meet the expectations of today's workforce, especially Gen Z.  

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Dr. Frank Gonzalez, Director of Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging at Yum! Brands explore the impact of unconscious bias on DEIB initiatives. We'll take a deep dive into how unconscious bias shapes everything from organizational culture to decision-making and discuss how training and adopting new tools can raise awareness and address these biases, as progressive organizations work to strengthen their DEIB efforts. 

We talk a lot about high-performing teams, but are we measuring performance the right way? With evolving workplaces and shifting employee expectations, do traditional metrics like KPIs and performance reviews still reflect real success?  Maybe it's time for a fresh approach—one that goes beyond numbers and focuses on culture, collaboration, and individual strengths. So, how do we build teams that don't just meet targets but truly thrive?  To break it down, I'm joined by Shiva Sharma, People and Culture Advisor at Superbolter. Shiva brings deep expertise in shaping workplace cultures that drive both individual and team excellence. Let's dive in!   Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia 

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Vineet Kumar, Regional Manager and Human Resources at AL Rashed Food Company, explores non-monetary motivators for keeping employees engaged. From recognizing achievements in meaningful ways to creating opportunities for growth and leadership, we'll uncover the powerful elements that can inspire greater commitment and passion among teams beyond paychecks.  

What makes a CHRO truly exceptional? Is it their ability to manage people and policies, or is it something more like shaping company culture, driving business strategy, and ensuring employees feel heard and valued?  Today's top HR leaders aren't just enforcing policies, they're shaping the future of work. They're the bridge between business goals and people's needs. But again, being a great CHRO isn't easy. It takes vision, resilience, and the ability to lead through constant change.  That's exactly why we bring you this episode. Our guest, Vinod Bidwaik, knows what it takes to excel in this role. As the CHRO and Group Director of Human Resources, People & Culture at AP Globale & Sakal Media Group, he has led HR transformations that put people at the center while keeping business goals in focus.  Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia   Timestamps (02:10) Vinod shares his professional journey so far.   (07:54) He goes on to share a defining moment in his career that shaped his leadership in HR.  (14:43) Balancing business goals with people-centric decisions- how Vinod navigates this HR challenge.  (23:37) The key business acumen skills every HR leader needs to stay ahead.  (29:48) The toughest cultural challenge he has faced and how he tackled it.  (38:42) How AI and tech are reshaping the CHRO role.   (42:20) Vinod's one key piece of advice for aspiring CHROs—what he wishes he had known earlier. 

Every year, thousands of young professionals step out of college with degrees in hand, eager to start their careers. But the transition from classroom learning to the fast-paced demands of the corporate world isn't always smooth, we all know it. Employers often say that fresh graduates lack real-world skills, while graduates feel that companies are expecting way too much, too soon. So where does the disconnect really lie? And more importantly, how do we bridge this gap to ensure that young talent is equipped, confident, and truly workforce-ready?  To help us unpack these questions, we've invited a seasoned HR leader for this episode- Nishant Kalra, Group CHRO at JTEKT India, who has seen this challenge from both sides. With extensive experience in talent management and workforce strategies, Nishant has worked closely with young professionals and knows exactly what it takes to transform fresh graduates into high-performing employees. Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia Timestamps (02:20) Nishant shares his professional journey so far.   (03:40) He discusses the biggest gap between fresh graduates' expectations and workplace reality.  (06:37) Do fresh grads really lack real-world skills, or are companies expecting too much? Nishant breaks it down.  (09:32) The most common soft skill gaps and how to improve them.  (12:27) Gen Z's workplace priorities, do they clash with employer needs?  (14:46) Are internships and gig work enough? Nishant shares his perspective on what's still missing.  (16:50) Key piece of advice for fresh graduates stepping into their first job.   

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Sarah Katherine Schmidt, Vice President of Customer Experience at Peoplelogic, shares her insights on the transformative power of data into guiding strategic decisions. Tapping into insightful data allows companies to anticipate outcomes and drive decisions that keep them ahead in the race for top talent and operational excellence. 

You know that feeling when you step into your first job, excited and ready to take on the world, only to realize that things aren't exactly how you imagined? The rules aren't always written down, success isn't just about how good you are at your work, and handling feedback can sometimes feel more personal than professional. And let's not even get started on the whole work-life balance thing because, honestly, does anyone really figure it out early on? That's precisely why I feel conversations like these are important. Because instead of learning all of this the hard way, what if we could get a head start? What if someone can guide us while we navigate the ups and downs of the corporate world.   With that in mind, we bring you this episode—"Corporate Survival Guide: What They Don't Teach in College." And to help us unpack it all, we have Kriti Sarna, Senior Associate Consultant – Human Capital Solutions at AON. 

In this podcast episode, Ian O'Keefe, a leader in people analytics, discusses the transformative role of data, AI, and organizational network analysis in the modern workplace. With experience at Amazon, JP Morgan, Google, and more, Ian shares his journey from human capital consulting to leading analytics teams at top firms. He explores how data-driven decision-making enhances employee experience, retention, and business outcomes. Through real-world examples, Ian highlights the intersection of psychology, technology, and workforce analytics in shaping the future of work.

The world of Learning & Development (L&D) is evolving fast, bringing both new opportunities and challenges. We all want training programs that truly engage learners and leave a lasting impact. But let me be honest, sometimes, it feels like we're just throwing information out there, hoping something sticks.  That's why I find the idea of gamification and microlearning so fascinating. But I have some basic questions   Could they be the game-changers we've been looking for? Do they actually work together to create better learning experiences? That's exactly what we're diving into today!  And to help us with this, I'm thrilled to welcome Sahar Khan, Assistant General Human Resources Manager at BMW Group. Sahar brings a wealth of experience  and today, she'll help us explore the real impact of gamification and microlearning.    Timestamps (02:00) Sahar shared her corporate journey so far. (03:11) Why do gamification and micro-learning make such a perfect duo for learning and development? (06:18) The magic behind gamification, how it makes learning more engaging, especially when paired with quick, bite-sized lessons. (12:02) Sahar shared real-life examples where gamification and micro-learning completely transformed an organization's L&D efforts. (15:28) Navigating the overwhelming number of learning tools—how L&D teams can choose the right ones without getting lost in the noise. (21:23) Sahar wrapped up by discussing how organizations can effectively measure the success of combining gamification with micro-learning.    

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Thad Price, CEO at Talroo, shares his insights on infusing AI in recruitment.  The discussion explores how AI is revolutionizing recruitment, making the hiring process faster, smarter, and more efficient for companies, while also enhancing the experience for both recruiters and candidates.  

In this podcast episode, Christopher Lind, a leader at the intersection of business, technology, and people, shares his unconventional career journey from software development to corporate learning. He challenges traditional learning models and explores how technology is reshaping professional development. As a father of eight, he also reflects on balancing personal and professional growth. Through his insights, Lind highlights the evolving role of innovation in workplace learning and leadership.

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Victoria Pelletier, Vice President of Consulting at Kyndryl and a global leader in Enterprise Transformation, shares her insights on the significance of vulnerability in leadership. The session delves into how great leadership is more about vulnerability, resilience, and authenticity. Victoria emphasizes that embracing vulnerability as a strength can build trust, strengthen teams, inspire loyalty, and ensure all team members feel valued.   

In this special episode of "In Conversation with Partha Neog," Partha Neog, Founder and CEO of Vantage Circle, engages with Idit Duvdevany Aronsohn, Head of ESG and Employment Excellence at Amdocs. Their discussion delves into Amdocs' holistic approach to employee engagement, emphasizing the integration of well-being and organizational success. Idit outlines Amdocs' four key pillars of employee experience: impact, career growth, flexibility, and meaningful connections. They explore the evolution of flexibility, hybrid work models, and well-being initiatives in the post-pandemic era, highlighting the importance of purpose-driven work and belonging. The conversation also covers the distinction between recognition and rewards, the influence of management on engagement, and the role of peer-to-peer recognition in fostering a positive work environment. Partha and Idit conclude by discussing the transformative power of strategic engagement and recognition in building a thriving workplace.

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Neetu Choudhury, CEO of Evolvitude Fze, keynote speaker, author, executive coach, and Idea Presentation Advisor. The session delves into the science of leadership and how the new insights from neuroscience consistently reshape the ways we understand and practice effective leadership. Neetu emphasizes how brain science offers powerful tools for leaders that help them improve decision-making under pressure and foster growth mindsets.   

As companies expand internationally, the demand for skilled professionals is intensifying. But a study by Korn Ferry predicts that by 2030, there will be a global human talent shortage of 85 million people, potentially resulting in $8.5 trillion in unrealized annual revenues.  Now, this looming talent gap underscores the critical importance of effective global hiring strategies. But again, hiring globally isn't that simple. We all know that. It comes with its unique challenges, from navigating cultural differences and compliance laws to building teams that collaborate seamlessly across time zones.  So, to explore how companies can effectively attract and retain top talent worldwide, I'm thrilled to welcome Stefanie Wild, the Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Evonik Industries AG. With her extensive experience in international recruitment, Stefanie will share valuable insights on overcoming cross-border hiring challenges and most importantly, fostering inclusive, high-performing teams.     

In this podcast episode, Dr. Serena H. Huang, founder of 'Data with Serena,' delves into the transformative role of AI and data in today's corporate world. Drawing from her experience as Head of People Analytics at PayPal, she highlights the growing importance of AI-driven decision-making, employee engagement, and data storytelling. Dr. Huang shares her journey from corporate leadership to launching her own business, emphasizing the power of education and training to empower organizations and individuals in leveraging AI for greater impact and innovation.

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Ritika Bhandari, HR Head – GCC at Teleperformance, joins us to share her insights on cultivating a high-performance culture. The session delves into how shaping a high-performance culture requires making bold and unexpected decisions and balancing results with values. Drawing from real-world experiences, Ritika offers actionable lessons to help organizations create a culture that thrives on excellence. 

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Amy Bouque, Chief People Officer at Kelly, joins us to discuss her progressive views on AI. The session delves into the importance of shifting mindsets to see AI as an enabler of collaboration, creativity, and growth. Amy emphasizes the need to overcome resistance to AI and embrace it as a partner that can enhance innovation and productivity. 

HR today goes far beyond hiring, payroll, and compliance. They shape an organization's culture, drive growth, and lead transformative change. Yet, despite this expanded role, HR often faces challenges in being recognized as a strategic partner at the leadership level.  But, why is that? And more importantly, how can HR truly claim its place at the table where the big decisions are made?  To help us unpack this critical topic, we're joined by Talat Sheerazi Goldie, the Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Evonik Industries AG. With her extensive experience and insights, we'll explore what it takes for HR to move from being a supportive function to a critical player in driving business success.  Host of this Episode- Sanjeevani Saikia (01:45) Talat shares her corporate journey so far.    (04:36) She shares how HR leaders can effectively showcase their contributions in ways that resonate with business leaders.   (08:14) A discussion on the evolving role of HR and how this transition benefits both HR and the business at large.   (13:06) Talat's take on ensuring HR initiatives are aligned and central to achieving business goals.   (20:05) Balancing compassion and accountability—she discusses navigating these challenges while maintaining integrity.   (24:45) Ways in which business acumen is shaping the future of HR and her perspective on this shift.   (27:48) A forward-looking conversation on the future of HR.

In this episode of Vantage Influencers Podcast, we're joined by Daniela G., Senior Director of HR at Groupe ADP. The session explores Daniela's journey and the transformative strategies she's championed in human resources. From navigating crises to integrating technology with a human touch, Daniela discusses how bold innovations in HR can reshape workplace culture and enhance employee engagement. Tune in for insights on redefining HR leadership and fostering a forward-thinking work environment.   

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers podcast, we're joined by Bob Nelson, a bestselling author of over 5 million copies, celebrated keynote speaker, and expert in employee engagement and recognition consulting. Bob delves into the art of creating enjoyable year-end recognition for employees. Drawing from his extensive knowledge, he offers unique insights on how to make year-end celebrations impactful and dispels common myths surrounding employee recognition. 

In this podcast episode, Michael Piker shares his insights on the evolving landscape of reward systems, emphasizing the need for personalized, flexible, and technology-driven approaches. As AI, globalization, and shifting employee expectations reshape the workplace, traditional reward models are proving inadequate. Piker highlights the need for HR professionals to rethink strategies to better align with modern workforce realities, ensuring engagement and retention while delivering a measurable return on investment.

Total Rewards has the power to go beyond paychecks and benefits. It can redefine how organizations connect with their people and create more meaningful, holistic experiences that truly engage employees.  But again, what does a truly impactful Total Rewards transformation look like? And how do we design systems that resonate with employees while also aligning with business goals?   That's what we're going to explore today. And to help us with that, I'm excited to welcome Priyambi Chordia Malvai, an expert in Total Rewards and HR leadership. She's currently heading Total Rewards, Organization Effectiveness, and HRBP for Emerging Businesses at Times Internet.    Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia  (02:27) Priyambi breaks down the key elements that make a Total Rewards program truly effective, focusing on inclusivity, market awareness, and alignment with business goals.  (21:39) Adapting Total Rewards programs to meet the rapidly changing expectations of today's workforce.  (28:25) Priyambi discusses the balance between financial rewards and non-monetary incentives, explaining how companies can use both to motivate and engage employees.  (34:09) The importance of clear communication in Total Rewards programs is explored  (37:11) She talks about how a strong Total Rewards strategy can impact employee retention, especially in a competitive job market.  (50:16) Final thoughts from her on the future of Total Rewards and how organizations can evolve to meet the changing needs of their workforce.   

Matt Burns and Anna A. Tavis discuss the evolving role of technology in HR and employee development. They highlight the increasing use of digital coaching platforms, which democratize access to coaching and make it available at all organizational levels. Anna emphasizes that these technologies, including AI, are transforming traditional coaching methods, making personalized support more scalable and accessible. They additionally highlight the need to prioritize human well-being and experience as technological integration in the workplace expands. 

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Hisham ElSaied, Regional HR Head- MENA at Helmerich & Payne, explores Cross-Cultural Communication in the Workplace—how cultural differences drive innovation, the challenges of communication gaps, and the power of diversity in problem-solving.

Matt Burns and Tim Gregory discuss the importance of seamless HR service delivery and personalization in enhancing the employee experience at Delta Airlines. Tim emphasizes the need for HR to recognize and respond to different career stages and life events, aiming to build discretionary effort in employees to delight customers. They highlight Delta's commitment to employee and customer safety and the genuine culture that helped them navigate the challenges of the pandemic. The conversation also covers the integration of technology and AI in HR, focusing on reducing friction in employee interactions and using data to drive better decisions. Tim underscores the balance between data-driven decisions and maintaining the human touch in HR practices.

Civility involves showing respect and consideration in interactions, fostering harmony and constructive communication. In this episode, host Susmita joins Mike Horne, Executive Coach and Organizational Development Consultant, to share insights and strategies for creating a respectful and positive workplace culture. Whether you're a leader or a team member, this podcast offers valuable tips for enhancing workplace relationships. Join us on this journey to cultivate civility!

In this episode we'll be discussing the practical steps, strategies, and inspiring stories of women who've carved their own paths to leadership. And to help us through this conversation, we've Rekha Radhakrishnan with us. She is currently Group Director of HRBP at the London Stock Exchange Group.  Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia  Timestamps (01:35) Rekha introduces herself and shares insights into common challenges women encounter on the path to leadership. (08:12) She reflects on her journey with self-advocacy in leadership and offers valuable advice.   (10:47) Essential leadership skills that women should focus on to excel and thrive in senior roles.  (20:21) Importance of building strong networks and alliances, sharing tips for women looking to expand their professional connections.  (24:06) Strategies for addressing and overcoming bias and stereotypes while staying authentic in leadership are explored.  (27:52) Rekha finally provides her perspective on necessary organizational changes to help more women not only access but succeed in leadership positions.   

This episode explores the vital concept of "scaling with soul" —growing your business while staying true to its values and culture. Discover how leaders can foster engagement, collaboration, and a shared purpose as their teams expand. Our guest, Christina Luconi, shares practical strategies for building high-growth teams without losing the heart of their culture. Tune in for valuable insights!

In this podcast episode, Matt Burns and Sandrine Bardot discuss the significant shifts in workforce dynamics over the past few years, particularly in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council). The conversation covers the growing adoption of remote work, changes in labor laws in regions like the UAE, and evolving attitudes towards work-life balance and employee well-being. Bardot highlights the complexities of managing total rewards systems in a world increasingly focused on flexibility, fairness, and alignment between organizational values and employee expectations. Key challenges include rethinking performance management, adapting to hybrid work models, and addressing employees' financial and mental well-being. 

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers podcast, host Susmita speaks with Akram Abdelmonem, Regional HR & Talent Acquisition Manager at Americana Restaurants. They dive into what drives or hinders employee acceptance of change during organizational transformations. Akram shares valuable insights on fostering engagement, promoting diversity, and navigating the complexities of effective change management. Tune in for strategies that can help organizations thrive in today's dynamic environment!

HR has always been a vital part of any organization, but the role it plays is evolving lately. We are witnessing a significant shift from descriptive HR, which focuses on analyzing historical data to understand past performance, to prescriptive HR, which leverages advanced analytics to deliver actionable insights and inform future decisions.  Now, this transition is more than just a trend. It's a strategic move that can revolutionize how organizations manage their people, forecast challenges, and create proactive solutions.  To explore this transformation in depth, we're thrilled to have Manisha Kelkar with us for this episode. As the Head of Corporate HR at Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., Manisha brings extensive experience in driving HR strategy.    Timestamps (01:52) Introduction to Manisha Kelkar and her role at Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd.  (02:58) The difference between Descriptive HR and Prescriptive HR, and why it's important in today's workplace.  (07:56) Discussion on how Prescriptive HR goes beyond identifying trends to provide actionable advice, with examples.  (10:19) Insights into the crucial role data plays in both Descriptive and Prescriptive HR practices.  (12:30) Challenges HR teams encounter when transitioning from Descriptive to Prescriptive HR.  (19:09) How HR can apply Prescriptive HR while maintaining a human-centered approach and avoiding over-reliance on technology.  (21:36) Manisha's thoughts on the future of HR analytics and whether Prescriptive HR will become the new standard. 

Matt Burns and John Petrov discuss HR challenges in healthcare, focusing on employee engagement and the impact of fixed pricing due to Medicare and Medicaid. They explore strategic HR planning, AI's role in recruitment, and the importance of maintaining culture during mergers. Despite AI's growth, they emphasize the ongoing need for human interaction in HR.

Have you ever thought about how understanding your personality type could unlock your potential? In this episode, we explore how the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can enhance team dynamics, boost collaboration, and align careers with unique strengths. Our host talks to Dr. Mohamed Hassan, a leader in compensation and rewards management, about his journey and the transformative power of MBTI in HR.

Matt Burns and Heidi Hauver discuss leadership, HR, and the pandemic's impact on work culture. Heidi reflects on her 25-year HR career, emphasizing innovation, recognition, and managing growth in startups. They also explore AI's role in enhancing HR productivity and driving strategic initiatives.

Of late, there's a question that's buzzing around- Will Tech Savvy Leaders Dominate the Future?  And the hype around this question is no surprise.   As Sean Gerety wisely puts it, "The technology you use impresses no one. The experience you create with it is everything."   With this perspective in mind, it's intriguing to think about how leaders who excel with tech will influence the future. Will their tech skills give them a major advantage, or are there some challenges and trade-offs we should be aware of?  To help us with these questions, today we've with us Sushil Baveja. He is the CHRO at Jindal Stainless. With over 38 years of experience spanning Indian family enterprises to global corporations, Sushil brings a wealth of insight to our discussion.     Host of this Episode- Sanjeevani Saikia Episode Highlights (01:36) Sushil Baveja provides a brief overview of his career highlights so far.  (03:10) A dive into how leaders are reshaping leadership in a world where AI and automation are rapidly becoming the norm. (05:52) The focus turns to the fine line tech-savvy leaders walk between innovation and potential pitfalls.  (11:42) Whether a deep focus on tech enhances innovation or risks stifling creativity- explored.   (17:20) Sushil's insights on strategies for maintaining organizational agility in the face of rapid technological changes.  (23:20) The episode wraps up with how balancing data-driven decisions with intuitive leadership can help.  

What if you could unlock your employees' potential with a few simple learning and development strategy changes? Today, we'll explore how L&D can enhance engagement and help teams thrive.  Global L&D expert Jessie Osborne will join our host, Susmita in this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast. She'll share insights on L&D's evolution and common gaps organizations overlook.  We'll also cover budget-friendly ways to boost engagement, the role of gamification and virtual reality, challenges in personalized learning, and the benefits of microlearning. 

When decision-making is decentralized, it empowers team members at all levels to take initiative and respond quickly to challenges. An approach like this can lead to faster innovation, more agile problem-solving, and a stronger sense of ownership throughout the organization.  But to truly understand the impact of decentralizing decision making, having an expert's perspective is invaluable. So, we're excited to welcome Siddhartha Das. He is the Head of HR Operations for Global People Services at Reckitt.   Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia    Episode Highlights  (01:30) Siddhartha provides a brief overview of his career highlights so far.   (04:28) The discussion shifts to the impact noticed on overall company performance when decisions are decentralized.    (21:30) Some of the biggest hurdles experienced while implementing decentralizing decision-making.    (28:26) Ways to tackle the challenges- Siddharth's take.  (33:05) How does decentralized decision-making help spark innovation and creativity within teams?   (38:59) The episode wraps up with a discussion of the strategies companies can use to balance decentralized decision-making.     

Did you know a people-first culture can boost employee satisfaction by 30% and productivity by 20%?  In this episode, host Susmita talks with Mark Edgar about the transformative power of prioritizing people in the workplace. Tune in to learn effective strategies for building a vibrant, people-first culture. 

In this episode, Matt Burns and Dr. Keith Keating discuss Keith's inspiring journey from high school dropout to a leader in learning and development. They explore the importance of a supportive learning culture, continuous education, and the potential of AI to enhance personalized learning while emphasizing the need for human connection. Keith's story highlights how resilience and adaptability can shape a successful career.

Discover the essence of employee engagement with Nancy Zakharia Ohanessian, a Talent and Organizational Development Architect and Leadership Coach, on the Vantage Influencers Podcast. We'll explore what truly drives engagement and define key factors that boost employees' mental and emotional connection to their work. Tune in for actionable insights and expert advice!

Gen Z is bringing a whole new vibe to the workplace with fresh expectations for their leaders. They're looking for more than just a figurehead. They want leaders who are real, tech-savvy, and genuinely care about their personal and professional growth.   So, in today's episode, we're going to break down exactly what Gen Z wants from their leaders. And to help us in doing that, we have the amazing Meenalochani Kumar with us. A neuroscience-based HR practitioner and a visionary talent management and development leader known for her impact on several renowned organizations.  Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia 

In this episode, host Susmita sits down with Ghenwa Habbal to explore the intersection of leadership, well-being, and the challenges of our VUCA world. Ghenwa, a prominent figure in leadership and well-being, shares her journey from the Middle East to Dubai and offers insights from her extensive workshops and coaching.

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, we explore the unique HR and culture challenges that arise in VC-backed organizations. Join us as we chat with Mr. Anish Padinjaroote, Vice President of Culture & Brand Experience at Fractal, about how rapid scaling, investment pressures, and evolving company cultures impact HR strategies.  So, whether you're in HR or just curious about the intersection of venture capital and workplace culture, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating these fast-paced environments. Host of this Episode- Sanjeevani Saikia  

In this podcast, Matt Burns and Angela Cheng-Cimini discuss the evolution of HR and its strategic importance in organizations. Angela emphasizes the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a key business strategy, highlighting its benefits for both organizations and society. They talk about the shift in HR's focus from purely administrative tasks to becoming a strategic partner that understands business goals and drives workforce planning. Angela also discusses the impact of AI on HR, stressing the importance of leveraging technology while maintaining a human-centered approach. Additionally, she shares insights on how Harvard Business Publishing revised its values to better align with a global and diverse workforce. 

In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, Steve Degnan will discuss the impact of building strong relationships on advancing your career and boosting your leadership skills. He'll recount a personal career challenge he navigated through networking, provide tips on handling career setbacks, and discuss strategies for staying adaptable in today's ever-changing job market. Join us to discover how cultivating relationships can be key to long-term success!

It's fascinating to see how the workforce landscape is evolving so rapidly. Traditional employment models are being challenged and redefined by the rise of the gig economy. As more people opt for freelancing, contract work, and temporary positions, businesses are compelled to rethink how they attract and retain talent.   This brings us to yet another episode of Vantage Influencers Podcast. Joining us is Lavanya Nandakumar. She is the Vice President and Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Prodapt.   Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia  

In this episode, we're delving into 'Culture Shock: The Fallout When Leadership Misses the Mark.' Our guest is Adam Massman, Chief People Officer at Netchex, who will discuss the significant problems that arise when leaders fail to understand or support their teams effectively. Join us as we explore how this can lead to frustration, conflict, and a loss of trust, hindering team collaboration and overall effectiveness.

Matt Burns and Alim Dhanji discuss the complex dynamics of leadership and organizational transformation. They delve into Alim's experiences at Adidas and Equinox, highlighting the importance of strategic HR initiatives, cross-functional collaboration, and the integration of personal wellness in professional settings. The conversation highlights the evolving role of HR towards enhancing human performance, the impact of mental health on employee well-being, and the need for a culture that fosters innovation and psychological safety.