Podcasts about peopleforward network

We're hitting "replay" and raising a mug of cocoa! ☕️

We're hitting "replay" and raising a mug of cocoa! ☕️

We're hitting "replay" and raising a mug of cocoa! ☕️

What if the real key to connection in the digital workplace isn't more tools, but more trust? In a world obsessed with metrics, platforms, and productivity hacks, Andy Sitison flips the script. A strategist, designer, and people-first tech mind, Andy joins Nikki to explore how we move from clicks to true connection.

Episode Description: What if wellness wasn't just a perk, but a leadership necessity? In this Working Forward Conversations episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory and Jason Cochran flip the script on workplace wellness, diving deep into why wellness is a non-negotiable requirement for modern leadership. From morning meditations and mid-day workouts to setting boundaries and asking for help, they share personal rituals and team-wide practices that fuel sustained capacity and impact. Get a behind-the-scenes of how People Forward Network lives out people-first values, with wellness baked into every level: micro (individual), mezzo (team), and macro (world-changing mission). Whether you're burned out or building a better culture, this convo offers a fresh, energizing perspective on leading well by living well.   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Define wellness clearly for yourself and your organization. Micro habits shape sustained leadership and personal energy. Team rituals protect energy and promote shared accountability. Modeling self-care encourages psychological safety and trust. Wellness supports impact beyond profit.  

Ever wonder what your action figure accessories would be? Or whether you'd rather be launched to Mars or dive into the depths of the ocean?

What if the secret to a thriving workplace isn't perks or policies, but the energy people feel the moment they walk in?

What really happens when you're wired to win, check all the boxes, and still feel like it's not enough?

What if the most powerful leadership skill isn't what you say, but what you don't? Katherine shares a surprising truth: she struggles with listening, and she knows she's not alone. As leaders, we often think communication is about what we say, but the real power lies in what we hear.

What if the key to stronger leadership isn't pushing through, but slowing down? Rosie gets personal about what it really takes to lead well when life gets messy. From unexpected stressors to brain fog and simple mistakes, Rosie shares how she's learning to extend more grace, to herself and others, and how that shift is actually making her more effective. She explores how to move from judgment to curiosity, chaos to clarity, and exhaustion to empowerment. By applying leadership tools like "above the line" thinking to her own challenges, Rosie models what it looks like to recalibrate without shame. It's not about perfection. It's about presence, intention, and progress. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to get through a tough season, this one's a must-listen reminder that giving yourself more grace isn't letting go, it's leveling up.

What if your greatest leadership move isn't climbing the ladder, but choosing to show up differently, every single day? Nikki sits down with Wesley Bender, a leadership coach who believes the most powerful leaders aren't defined by titles or personality types, but by their actions. Together, they unpack the bold idea that leadership is a choice, grounded in behavior and built through self-efficacy: the belief that your actions can shape outcomes. Wesley brings a refreshing challenge to traditional frameworks and dives into why admired leaders stand out: not just because they drive performance, but because people actually want to follow them. From personal stories to practical takeaways, this episode is a masterclass in what it means to model the way, at home, in the workplace, and everywhere in between. Tune in to rethink what leadership really looks like.

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

Leading with confidence and calm under pressure with the strength of Self-Assurance

What if the key to better leadership isn't fixing people, but finally seeing them?

Solving problems with care and clarity through the strength of Restorative

Peterman Brothers' Andrew Hasty breaks down why most home service teams do not fail for lack of talent or opportunity, but because of dysfunction. Drawing from Patrick Lencioni's The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Andrew focuses on the base of the pyramid, the absence of trust, and why it quietly kills performance in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical businesses. Through stories from his own life and leadership journey, Andrew shows how perfectionism, fear of failure, and "old school toughness" create blame cultures, silos, and defensiveness on a team. He contrasts that with vulnerability-based trust, where leaders go first by admitting mistakes, asking for feedback, and letting others step into real responsibility. Andrew also challenges every leader to identify one strength and one honest weakness that may be holding their company back from its next level of growth. If you are leading techs, installers, or managers and you sense hidden tension, blame, or burnout on your team, this episode will help you build the kind of trust that makes growth inevitable. Take these conversations further inside The Arena, the free CSTG community for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical leaders who want to grow faster together: https://cantstopthegrowth.com/ Additional Resources: Connect with Chad on LinkedIn Chad Peterman | CEO | Author Learn more about the Peterman Brothers Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

In this conversation, AI leaders Beth White and Vince Freeman break down what is actually happening inside companies as they attempt to adopt AI. They explore why so many pilots fall short, how individual employees are often ahead of organizational strategies, and why success depends less on tools and more on mindset, literacy, and culture. They share practical insights on building AI strategy with purpose, including who should be involved, how to identify the right problems to automate, and why HR plays a critical role in workforce transformation. The discussion highlights the importance of empowering people, creating trust, and moving beyond traditional cost metrics to understand where AI creates the most value. Additional Resources: Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitebeth/ Connect with Vince on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-freeman-55ba152/ Join the PFN Community! Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Most AI pilots fail because companies jump in without clear goals or realistic timelines. Smaller, focused use cases with the right tools lead to faster wins. Real impact is in operational efficiency, not just sales or revenue. Adoption improves when employees trust the process and see how AI helps their role. Success should measure productivity, agility, and growth, not just cost savings.  

What if chasing profit is actually killing your team's potential?

Showing up with consistency and care through the strength of Responsibility

What if chasing profit is actually killing your team's potential?

Building trust and deepening connection with the strength of Relator

Leading with optimism and setting boundaries with the strength of Positivity ☀️ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller, Jaclynn Robinson and Jane McCarthy explore the energizing strength of Positivity and how it uplifts people, teams, and culture. They dive into how Positivity fuels hope, helps reframe challenges, and creates momentum through celebration and encouragement. The conversation also explores the importance of setting healthy boundaries, cultivating resilience, and using optimism to lead with emotional intelligence and connection. Through stories and insights, this episode shows how Positivity can be a powerful tool for motivation, trust-building, and long-term impact in both personal and professional relationships.

Creating clarity and impact with the strength of Maximizer ✨ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller speaks with Jayne Jenkins and Anthony Kavouras about how their shared Maximizer strengths shape the way they work, lead, and collaborate. They unpack how Maximizers thrive on refining what's already working, and how that mindset can drive high performance when paired with clear priorities and aligned teams. From learning how to manage pace and perfectionism to raising others up and knowing when to move on, this conversation offers honest reflections and practical tools for turning potential into excellence.

this conversation, Micah Remley, CEO of Robin, shares insights on the importance of unplugging from technology, the art and science of building great teams, and the impact of AI on the workplace. He discusses the challenges of remote work, the necessity of embracing adversity, and the role of HR in shaping AI strategies. The conversation emphasizes the value of in-person interactions and the need for balance in hybrid work environments, highlighting the importance of community and connection in achieving personal and professional growth. Additional Resources: Connect with Micah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micah-remley-b6430740/ Join the PFN Community! Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Unplugging from technology can lead to better balance and perspective. Building great teams requires intentionality and understanding of situational needs. Remote work has led to lower happiness levels among employees despite higher engagement. Embracing adversity is essential for personal and professional growth. AI is transforming the workplace, but it requires adaptation and learning.  

Embracing growth and curiosity with the strength of Learner

Thinking deeply and honoring complexity with the strength of Intellection

Employee engagement metrics have barely moved in over a decade, but what if we're measuring the wrong things? Nikki sits down with Joshua Freedman, CEO of Six Seconds and author of the soon-to-drop “Emotion Rules”. Together, they go deep on why engagement isn't about snacks in the breakroom or slick surveys. It's emotional, and it's human. They unpack why “leave emotions at the door” might be the worst business advice ever, what true caring leadership looks like, and how love, trust, and boundaries create high-performing cultures where people actually want to show up. If you're ready to trade performative leadership for authentic connection, this episode is your roadmap.

Gathering knowledge and fueling curiosity with the strength of Input

In this episode, Jason Cochran interviews Bob Dalton, a tech founder and community expert, discussing the intersection of technology and community. Bob shares his journey from starting a blanket company to addressing homelessness and emphasizes the importance of localism and community in a tech-driven world. They explore the impact of technology on human connection, the need for community in workplaces, and the future of community-building in the face of AI advancements. Bob advocates for authentic connections and the necessity of community for survival in today's society. Additional Resources: Follow Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobxdalton/ Join the PFN Community! Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Bob Dalton's journey began with a personal experience that led him to address homelessness. Localism is crucial for societal change and should be prioritized over nationalism and individualism. Technology has created a divide, leading to isolation and addiction to digital platforms. Community is essential for mental health and combating addiction in a tech-driven society. Building authentic connections is vital for personal and professional growth.  

What if your podcast could be more than just content, and actually become your best sales and marketing engine? In this live episode from CultureCon® 2025, Nikki and Eric share their secret playbook for turning podcasts into powerful business growth tools. From claiming your niche and attracting the right guests, to creating inbound momentum and unlocking sponsorship opportunities, they reveal how podcasting, done with intention, can drive brand awareness, new relationships, and even revenue. Whether you're podcast-curious or looking to maximize your current show, this conversation proves that podcasting isn't just about downloads… it's about results.

Coaching through uniqueness and building trust with the strength of Individualization

What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn't coming for your job, it's coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. F rom using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they're showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center

Making space for every voice with the strength of Includer

What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn't coming for your job, it's coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. F rom using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they're showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center

Exploring ideas and sparking innovation with the strength of Ideation

Ever feel like no one's really listening to you as a leader? Like your message isn't landing, even though your intentions are solid? That's not just frustrating. It's a credibility problem. Katherine sits down with communications powerhouse Jenni Field, author of “Nobody Believes You: Become a Leader People Will Follow.” Together, they dive into why great leadership isn't just about charisma or good intentions, it's about credibility, and yes, that can be learned. With 20+ years in global comms roles and now leading her consultancy, Redefining Communications, Jenni breaks down her signature 8 practices of leadership credibility. From integrity to visionary thinking, she shares real-world stories, laugh-out-loud insights, and tips leaders can implement tomorrow. If you've ever wondered why your team isn't “getting it,” or felt like you're doing all the right things but still not moving the needle, this episode's for you.

What if HR stopped being the department of “no” and became the heartbeat of transformation in your business? Nikki is joined by Raina Fryer of Titus Talent Strategies to flip the script on what HR should be. Broadcasting live from the PeopleForward Network studio at CultureCon® 2025, this episode dives into how people leaders can ditch outdated playbooks and embrace a bold, modern approach to leading humans. Raina challenges us to rethink everything, from the language we use to how we train, hire, and retain our teams. She brings fresh insights on cross-functional leadership, performance-based hiring, and how to actually treat HR as a strategic partner, not just a rule enforcer. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to building people-first cultures.   Additional Resources: Connect with Raina Learn more about Titus Talent Strategies Reach out to Titus Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: HR must shift from compliance to strategic partnership. Rethinking titles like "HR" can reflect a more modern role. Let go of control; embrace creativity and ambiguity. Hiring should focus on long-term performance, not just quick fills. Retention starts with great onboarding, mentorship, and purpose.  

We often hear the phrase “it's lonely at the top,” but what if that loneliness isn't limited to executives, and something we all carry in different ways? Rosie sits down with Nick Jonsson, the world's leading voice on executive loneliness, to uncover why disconnection has become an epidemic and what we can do about it. Nick's story is both raw and inspiring, as he opens up about his personal battle with isolation, burnout, and the turning point that reshaped his life. Together, they explore why leaders hesitate to be vulnerable, how silence becomes dangerous, and why trust deepens when we ask for help. Most importantly, Nick shares his five practical steps for overcoming loneliness, tools that don't just apply to executives, but to anyone navigating the pressures of modern life. This conversation is a reminder that leadership is human, connection is essential, and none of us are meant to do it alone.   Additional Resources: Get Nick's Book - "Executive Loneliness" Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Follow Nick on YouTube Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Loneliness affects everyone, not just executives. Vulnerability builds trust and connection. Fear of judgment keeps leaders silent. Five steps: take stock, seek help, get healthy, build relationships, find purpose. Sharing in good times strengthens us for hard times.

Creating connection and resolving conflict with the strength of Harmony

Seeing what's next and shaping what's possible with the strength of Futuristic

Ever catch yourself thinking, “Did I cause that reaction? Was that my fault?” We've all been there… holding back, walking on eggshells, or spiraling into guilt because of how someone else responded. But here's the truth: their emotions aren't yours to carry. Rosie breaks down why trying to “own” other people's feelings keeps us stuck and drained. She reminds us that our real job is showing up with clarity, curiosity, and groundedness, not managing someone else's emotional world. When we stop taking responsibility for reactions that aren't ours, we open the door to more authenticity, more confidence, and more sparkle ✨ Get ready for a mindset shift that frees you from unnecessary weight and helps you lead, connect, and live with greater ease.   Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: We're not responsible for others' emotions. Our role is to show up clearly, curiously, and grounded. Emotional reactions often stem from others' past patterns. Own only what's yours, not someone else's response. Letting go creates space for authenticity and confidence.

In this episode of Working Forward, Amy Bayer shares her personal journey through burnout, career reinvention, and the slow, intentional process of rediscovering purpose. From leading global employer brand initiatives to stepping away in search of alignment, Amy offers a vulnerable look at what it means to listen to your body, trust your instincts, and let go of what no longer serves you. She and Brent discuss how strengths like Empathy and Connectedness guided her path, the power of sabbaticals, and the questions that helped her begin again — on her terms.   Additional Resources: Connect with Amy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-bayer-812ba8104/ Join the PFN Community: https://community.peopleforwardnetwork.com/sign_up?request_host=community.peopleforwardnetwork.com&user%5Binvitation_token%5D=43bbc5f192b8ac515b0c44bdfac7951d8cc7fc72-4b4aa546-ba57-4904-b9fb-2ced53e9af12#email Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Jason.Cochran Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: - Burnout often begins when we ignore our body's quiet signals in pursuit of productivity. - Sabbaticals aren't escapes — they're opportunities to reflect, heal, and realign. - Letting go of identity tied to work is one of the hardest and most liberating parts of growth. - Strengths like Empathy and Connectedness can serve as both compass and anchor in transition. - Working forward means redefining success on your own terms — slowly, intentionally, and honestly.

Blocking out noise, dialing into purpose — the strength of Focus

Feeling it all — the strength and stretch of Empathy

Order, structure, and space to breathe — the power of Discipline ⚙️ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon, Leanne and Carolyn dive into the often-overlooked strength of Discipline — a rare theme that brings calm to chaos and clarity to complexity. They reflect on how Discipline shaped them from childhood to leadership, creating the structure needed to thrive while learning to flex when life demands it. From energy management to relationships, they explore how Discipline supports consistency, focus, and intentional living — and how to balance it with spontaneity and creativity. Whether you lead with Discipline or just wish you had more of it, this episode offers real stories, practical insights, and a refreshing take on what it means to lead with structure and soul.

Empathetic leadership drives engagement, performance, and innovation. It's a fact. Yet post-pandemic, leaders are struggling to balance the needs of their people with the demands of the business and their own mental health. This livestream session with empathy expert, speaker, author, and podcast host of The Empathy Edge, Maria Ross, will enable leaders from the Director to C-suite to build high-performing teams, align their work with their values, and find success in the new world of work.The audience will gain:DEFINE what empathy means in a work context and clarify confusing terminology. Bust common empathy myths that hold leaders back.DISCOVER how empathy helps you do good while doing well financially: Empathy is not just good for the world, but it can be a competitive advantage. We'll walk through the financial & organizational benefits of acting with empathy, and how you can persuade others in the organization to do the right thing.EXPLORE what empathy is - and more importantly, what it is NOT.DISCOVER the Five Pillars of Effective and Empathetic Leadership to better balance the needs of the business with the needs of your people.To access the episode transcript, please scroll down below.Key Takeaways:Empathy requires great strength to be able to take on someone else's point of view without fear or defensiveness.We can access empathy through two angles - cognitive and affective (or emotional) empathy.Why managers need to create a human connection with their teams.In today's digital world, connection is more important than ever. It is a key to experiencing empathy. "You need to be very firmly grounded in who you are, what you believe, and your own self-confidence to open yourself up to other points of view. Empathy is anything but weak; it's a strength." — Maria RossEpisode References: Sign Up Here for PeopleFoward Network: https://bit.ly/pfncommunityThe Empathy Edge Podcast: Daina Middleton: How to do Layoffs with Humanity, Inclusion, and Compassion Dr. Michelle Zhou: Empathic AI is Real and It's Here - But We Need Everyone Involved! Dr. Cori Lathan: Benevolent Cyborgs and a Techno-Optimist's View on TechnologyFrom Our Partner:SparkEffect partners with organizations to unlock the full potential of their greatest asset: their people. Through their tailored assessments and expert coaching at every level, SparkEffect helps organizations manage change, sustain growth, and chart a path to a brighter future.Go to sparkeffect.com/edge now and download your complimentary Professional and Organizational Alignment Review today.About PeopleForward Network: We exist to help all people experience meaningful work.We imagine a world where leadership and people-first leadership are synonymous.PeopleForward Network provides innovative podcasting, communications, and partnership services for people-first leaders to impact meaningful work.From podcast production and distribution to creative services and growth consulting, PeopleForward Network's mission is to share resources and insights with its global community of leaders, connectors, and creators to inspire and build workplaces where people thrive.Connect with Jason Cochran & PeopleForward Network: Website: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Jason.Cochran LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasondcochran/ Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books on empathy: Red-Slice.com/booksLearn more about Maria's work: Red-Slice.comHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Course! Leading with EmpathyLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceThreads: @redslicemaria

Seeing potential, sparking growth

What if the secret to staying focused, aligned, and genuinely excited about your goals wasn't a 20-page annual plan, but a simple monthly sprint? Nikki and Jason pull back the curtain on how PeopleForward Network uses OKRs and monthly sprint goals to spark team momentum.