Podcasts about peopleforward network

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

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Chris Kluver discuss the current state of the economy, the challenges faced by business leaders, and the impact of political decisions on economic stability. They explore the role of hope in leadership, the transformative effects of AI and automation on the workforce, and the importance of life-work integration in the evolving work landscape. The discussion emphasizes the need for strategic planning in addressing job displacement and the potential for AI to create a more equitable future. In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Kris Kluver explore the evolving role of AI in our lives, particularly its impact on critical thinking skills, productivity, and collaboration. Additional Resources: Connect with Kris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kriskluver/ 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: There's a lot of people out there who are freaking out about the economy. The extinction events we're going to see in businesses is going to be massive. With great disruption comes great opportunity. Hope is now the number one trait people look for in leadership. We need to have a plan for those who may be displaced by AI.

Ever feel like you're cheering everyone else on but struggling to advocate for yourself? You're not alone — and it might just be the biggest barrier to women stepping into leadership.

Ready, Set, Go! 

Welcome to Season 3 of Coach to Coach! In this exciting new season, host Brandon Miller is shaking things up. Instead of one-on-one coaching conversations, we're doubling the insight with dual perspectives—featuring two individuals who share the same top strength but bring it to life in completely different ways. You'll hear from world-class strengths coaches, practitioners, and leaders as they unpack how a single strength—like Maximizer, Relator, or Strategic—can look wildly different depending on the rest of your strengths lineup.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Gianna Driver explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on the challenges faced by HR leaders, the importance of work-life integration, and the rising significance of hope in leadership. They discuss the impact of AI on employment and the necessity for collaboration between humans and technology, emphasizing the need for workplaces to adapt to these changes while maintaining a human-centered approach. They also explore the implications of AI on critical thinking, productivity, and workplace culture. Additional Resources: Connect with Gianna on LinkedIn:: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianna-driver-6183391/ 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: HR leaders are tasked with overseeing employee well-being amidst rapid changes. Work-life integration is more relevant than ever in today's work environment. Hope has become a crucial trait sought in leadership, surpassing trust. AI is transforming the workplace, but it should be seen as a tool, not a replacement. Creating a future-ready workplace requires leaders to embrace AI and its potential.

Do you "design" your culture? Meaning: are you thoughtful and intentional about how people receive information, contact and connect with each other, find inspiration, express values? People who build and nurture COMMUNITIES think about this first and foremost, and they have a lot to teach people who build and nurture WORKFORCES.Nikki Lewallen Gregory founded the PeopleForward Network to inspire workplaces where people thrive, and she joins the meetup today to share ideas around internal podcasting for clarity at work, what work-life integration really means, and how to do asynchronous meetings well.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran interviews Vince Freeman, the Chief AI Implementation Officer at HardingPorman. They discuss the evolving role of AI in organizations, the challenges of implementation, and the future of work as AI becomes more integrated into various industries. Vince shares insights on the importance of education and collaboration between HR and IT, the potential economic implications of AI, and the need for individuals to find meaning beyond their jobs in an AI-driven world. Additional Resources: Connect with Vince on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-freeman-55ba152/ Join survivingtheuprising.com 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: The role of Chief AI Implementation Officer is crucial for strategic AI integration. AI implementation requires a clear understanding of organizational needs. Education and training are essential for successful AI adoption. Trust between leadership and employees is vital during AI transitions. AI will create new job roles while displacing some existing ones.

In this episode, we dive into the power of asynchronous meetings—what they are, why they matter, and how they can revolutionize the way teams communicate. Join Jason Cochran and Nikki Lewallen Gregory as they break down the key strategies behind effective async collaboration. From reducing meeting fatigue to ensuring every team member has a voice, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Additional Resources: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilewallen/ 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: Boosts productivity – Reduces unnecessary meetings and Zoom fatigue. Inclusive communication – Gives everyone a chance to contribute. Clear structure matters – Set expectations and deadlines. Right tools help – Use Slack, Google Docs, or project management apps. Future of work – Async collaboration is here to stay.

Workplace Revolution is back and better than ever! Andrea Brummett is joined by Jason Cochran, new host of Working Forward, to talk about the evolving role of EQ in the workplace. Andrea breaks down the five key components of EQ—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—giving real-world insights into why these skills are essential in today's rapidly changing work environment. We also dive deep into conflict resolution, leadership development, and the impact of AI on human connection. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or team member, this episode will challenge you to rethink how emotional intelligence impacts collaboration, decision-making, and long-term success. Additional Resources: Connect with Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-brummett-6024501/ The Pabulum Group: https://pabulumgroup.com/ reddeHR: https://reddehr.com/ 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: Self-awareness improves leadership and decision-making. Empathy builds trust and collaboration. Healthy conflict fuels growth. Intrinsic motivation drives success. EQ is a lifelong skill.

✨ Ready to stop living on autopilot and start spiraling UP? ✨ In this episode, Rosie chats with Wendy Wallbridge, award-winning author of Spiraling Upward, to uncover how to break free from “default mode” and embrace an inspired life. From mastering your energy to amplifying your voice, Wendy shares her 5 co-creative powers that will help you thrive both personally and professionally. Packed with wisdom, laughs, and actionable tips, this conversation will leave you ready to embrace discomfort, challenge your limits, and level up your life!

Joining me in this episode focused on the future of AI and HR are Enrique Rubio and Matt Burns. Enrique is an HR, Tech and Future of Work expert, keynote speaker and founder of global communities. Enrique is currently an advisor to the community he built, Hacking HR, a global learning community operating at the intersection of future of work, technology, business and organizations, with thousands of members of all over the world; and the Head of Global Community at Transform. Enrique is also ranked as one of the top 100 HR global influencers. Matt Burns is the Co-Founder & CEO of atlas copilot, the world's first AI knowledge copilot for people leaders. Atlas Copilot's mission is to fundamentally transform the way HR professionals, teams and other people leaders do their work. And increases the value they can offer by empowering them with the latest in generative AI technology. And together, they're now doing the "AI HR" podcast, presented by Hacking HR. Additional Resources: 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/ Enrique's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rubioenrique/ Matt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattburnshr/ Check out their businesses: https://hackinghrlab.io/ https://www.atlascopilot.com/ Check out their podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hacking-hr/episodes/AI-in-HR-Podcast--Episode-001--Guest-Enrique-Rubio-e2rsfqb Key Takeaways: There's a lot of uncertainty in the market regarding AI. AI will affect all job sectors, not just blue-collar jobs. Every job is at risk due to AI advancements. AI does not need to be perfect to replace human jobs. The gig economy is likely to grow as job security diminishes.

We're back with another episode live from CultureCon 2024! Join host Jasmine Bellamy as she chats with Mark Cruth, Modern Work Coach at Atlassian. With only 13% of teams thriving, Mark shares how storytelling can reconnect teams to their purpose. From "Postcards from the Future" to "Future Press Releases," discover simple, practical ways to energize your team and bring the magic back to work. Ready to transform your leadership? Let's get storytelling!

Re-release Alert!

Ever feel like life punches you in the face?

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

In this bonus episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory joins Jason Cochran to explore the foundation of successful remote teams. Nikki shares why intentionality matters, what it truly looks like (spoiler: it's more than just flexible schedules), and how leaders can build strong, connected cultures while boosting productivity. From work-life integration to game-changing rituals like asynchronous meetings, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at creating remote teams that thrive. Get ready for a crash course in leaving outdated systems behind and designing workplaces where people—and businesses—flourish. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insight! Additional Resources: 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/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Thriving remote teams require intentional design and alignment with organizational goals. Flexible work promotes work-life integration, enhancing satisfaction and productivity. A strong culture code and clear values are essential for connected remote teams. Weekly rituals like priority sharing foster accountability and collaboration. Embracing asynchronous work allows teams to collaborate effectively without the constraints of real-time meetings.

Ever feel like you're stuck in the "cult of busy"? Amy is joined by Lisa Bodell, who explains how to break free, reclaim our time, and simplify your lives. From saying "no" with confidence to killing those useless rules that hold you back, Lisa delivers eye-opening insights and laugh-out-loud moments. Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start doing what really matters? This episode will have you nodding, laughing, and rethinking how you spend your day. Don't miss it!

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

Rob Catalano, Chief Engagement Officer at WorkTango, shares insights on how leaders can enhance employee engagement through simple, regular micro-doses of recognition and feedback. He discusses his career transition from what he thought was his dream job (customer experience marketing) and how that translated into his actual dream job (engaging employee experiences). Why is it that so many employees at recognizable brands are miserable? He recognized the need for leaders to create environments where employees can be raving fans just as we seek our customers to be raving fans. Rob offers practical tips for how to recognize employee contributions and deliver constructive feedback in a way that unleashes talent and uplifts workplace culture for overall organizational success. The discussion also highlights generational differences in feedback expectations, particularly with Gen Z employees. Catalano advocates for a culture of curiosity over blame, encouraging leaders to engage in meaningful conversations that foster growth and development. Additional Resources Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeallenscott/ Learn more about Unleashing Leaders: https://www.unleashingleaders.com/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Listen to the original episode on Unlocked podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/458334/unlocking-potential-by-becoming-unleashed-with-lee-scott Reach out to Rob personally or at Worktango to see how you can use technology to enhance and expand your employee's engagement and retention. https://www.linkedin.com/in/robcatalano/https://www.worktango.com/ Key Takeaways: Positive employee sentiment is crucial for organizational success. Recognition is best when it is SMT - Specific, Meaningful, and Timely. Feedback doesn't have to take a lot of time, but you must make some time for it. Feedback is better in smaller, more frequent micro-doses. Focus recognition more on employee's contributions and competencies and less on longevity.

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

Happy New Year!

In this uplifting and energizing episode, Rosie connects with Charley Lapomardo, founder of Sparkleworks, to explore the power of embracing your inner sparkle and how it can transform problem-solving. From actionable frameworks to enhance team collaboration to leveraging personal energy for impactful solutions, Charley provides insights for creating high-impact, low-effort, and maximum sparkle strategies. Whether you're leading a team or seeking personal clarity, this conversation is packed with practical tools and heartfelt wisdom to help you shine brighter and lead with purpose.✨   Additional Resources: Connect with Charley on LinkedIn Learn more about Sparkle Works ✨ Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: ✨ Emotions Aren't Problems: Learn to separate emotions from the actual issues—they're signals, not obstacles. ✨ Sparkle Guides the Way: Align your solutions with excitement and energy to ensure they're sustainable, impactful, and motivating. ✨ High-Impact, Low-Effort, Maximum Sparkle: Focus on outcomes that deliver big results with minimal effort while fueling positivity and engagement. ✨Leadership Through Inclusion: Authentic leadership isn't about taking the spotlight—it's about creating space for everyone to shine.

Ken Rusk is author of the WSJ bestselling book "Blue-Collar Cash" and highly successful entrepreneur in the trades of Rusk Industries. His insights have been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Fox Business, and more. In this episode, Ken dives deep into three limiting beliefs about leading and scaling successful blue collar businesses. The first is the preposterous myth that a blue collar career in the trades is not a viable path to fulfillment and impact. We quickly dispatch that nonsense and celebrate how that trend is changing. The second limit is for those that choose the blue collar path, they can let their identity be narrowly defined by their skill or craft. This also afflicts white collar workers promoted to leadership levels who often feel it is only up to them to get a certain job done. This stunts their growth, locking them in as a solopreneur. Ken reframes this identity to honor your skill while also unlocking the power of scale. He also compares the satisfaction of a job well done versus the joy of helping others do a job well. The third limit is the belief that we can't fine motivated employees. Here Ken reframes from motivating to inspiring. He shares his specific methods for interviewing, clarifying, and reinforcing inspired intrapreneurs, who can take your business to levels beyond your imagination. He has a great take on renaming "goals" to "timed paths to success." For an empowering employee development opportunity, check out his impactful course, "The Path to a Successful Life" at www.KenRusk.com. These 8 short lessons with some guided reflection is a powerful way to help your employees as individuals or as a book club team effort to define their individual life focus that puts them in total control of achieving it. Additional Resources Ken is the President of Rusk Industries. Current book. "Blue-Collar Cash." Current digital short course. "The Path to a Successful Life." Future book on creating empowering employee-centric cultures. Podcast: "Comfort, Peace, and Freedom." Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeallenscott/ Learn more about Unleashing Leaders: https://www.unleashingleaders.com/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Listen to the original episode on Unlocked podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/458334/unlocking-potential-by-becoming-unleashed-with-lee-scott Key Takeaways: There are many paths to abundance and fulfillment. Blue-collar work is often stigmatized but is highly valuable. Self-limiting beliefs can hinder entrepreneurial growth. True entrepreneurs create scalable systems and delegate tasks. Understanding your identity is crucial for growth.

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

Culture isn't just a vibe—it's a choice! In today's Predictive Index replay, Hema Crockett, co-founder of Gig Talent, joins Matt Poepsel to break down what it really takes to build a culture that works. Spoiler alert: it's about values, not perks. Hema shares her secrets on getting everyone involved in shaping culture, why high performance goes way beyond numbers, and how leaders can make or break a team's vibe. Tune in for fresh insights and real talk on creating a workplace people actually want to be a part of!

What does it take to lead with courage? Ryan Berman, founder of Courageous, shares his game-changing insights, including the "Four S's of Life" and his courage formula (knowledge + faith + action). This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to “brave what's hard” and inspire bold action. Let's get courageous!   Additional Resources: Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn Learn more on ryanberman.com Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Connect with Deseri Garcia Learn more about Conscious Habit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: The Four S's of Life: Life transitions from being "shoved" upon us to survival, success, and, ultimately, soul alignment. Reflecting on your current stage is a courageous act itself. Courage Formula: Courage requires knowledge, faith, and action. Missing any one component leads to paralysis, recklessness, or complacency. Courage Breeds Courage: The more action you take, the stronger your courage muscle becomes, inspiring those around you.  

What does it take to create fearless environments where everyone feels heard? Firouzeh Dittmar, founder of Beyond Belonging Consulting, shares her journey and insights on psychological safety, breaking down DEI myths, and the power of vulnerability in leadership. This transformative conversation with Rosie is packed with practical tips to help you foster connection, inclusion, and trust—at work and beyond. Get ready to rethink what it means to lead with humanity!   Additional Resources: Connect with Firouzeh on LinkedIn Follow Firouzeh on FaceBook Learn more about Beyond Belonging Consulting Check out Firouzeh's Blog  Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Psychological safety is a human need—it's not just for formal leaders but for everyone to practice in all areas of life. Vulnerability drives connection—leaders who model it encourage others to open up, building trust and innovation. Representation matters—diverse voices create fearless environments where people feel heard and valued. Clarity and follow-up are key—clear communication and actions build trust and psychological safety. Kindness is transformative—approaching every interaction with humanity can reshape teams and workplaces.

Discover the magic of words in leadership! In this episode of Elevate Your Leadership, Rana reveals science-backed phrases that transform conversations, build trust, and create alignment. From “Help me understand” to “What's your story?”, these powerful tools foster deeper connections and unlock team potential. Ready to elevate your leadership with a touch of conversational magic? Tune in now!   Additional Resources: Connect with Rana on LinkedIn Learn more about VOLT Strategy Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Magical Phrases for Connection: Phrases like “Help me understand” and “This is hard, and it's important” build alignment and trust in conversations. Anatomy of a Great Conversation: Five steps: level set, build rapport, ask great questions, actively listen, and commit to the relationship. The Power of One Conversation: One meaningful conversation per week significantly impacts team performance and culture.  

On this re-released episode of Lead the People podcast, Marcel Schwantes, founder of Leadership from the Core, shares how his experience in a toxic workplace led him to embrace servant leadership. Now a renowned coach and speaker, Marcel discusses how prioritizing people-first principles transforms both leadership and organizational success. He shares practical tools for creating safe, empowering environments where employees can thrive.   Key Takeaways: Leadership requires responsibility—prioritize people-first values to create positive work environments. Humility is essential—stay open to learning and personal growth, no matter how experienced you are. Psychological safety matters—fostering autonomy and accountability empowers teams to deliver their best work.   From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com.   Additional Resources: Listen to the original episode on Lead the People                                                                       Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn                                                                                  Learn more about PeopleForward Network

In this episode of the Unleashing Leaders podcast, Lee Scott and Erin Cox discuss the complexities of decision-making in leadership roles. Erin shares her career journey, the challenges she faced while navigating multiple job offers, and the decision-making process she utilized, known as the OOC EMR model. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity, confidence, and authenticity in making impactful career choices, as well as the significance of having supportive colleagues and a positive work environment. Additional Resources: Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeallenscott/ Learn more about Unleashing Leaders: https://www.unleashingleaders.com/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/  Listen to the original episode on Unlocked podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/458334/unlocking-potential-by-becoming-unleashed-with-lee-scott Key Takeaways: Leaders often face complex decisions that require careful consideration. The OOC EMR model helps in structuring decision-making processes. It's essential to identify desired outcomes before evaluating options. Mitigating risks can lead to more favorable decision outcomes. Authenticity in leadership fosters diversity and better problem-solving. Having supportive colleagues enhances job satisfaction and performance. Decision-making can be overwhelming, but clarity brings peace. Negotiating offers can lead to better outcomes in career decisions. Work-life balance is crucial for personal fulfillment. Reflecting on past experiences can guide future decisions.

Welcome back to the humanscape podcast!

In this episode, Brea Roper, expert Strengths coach, joins Brandon to unpack the often misunderstood strength of Connectedness. If you're a coach or leader, you'll love Bria's take on how Connectedness can unify teams, spark purpose, and amplify impact. Discover why this strength is much more than “woo-woo” intuition—it's a driving force for creating meaning, fostering relationships, and building visionary cultures.  This episode is a masterclass in connection, purpose, and helping others see the bigger picture. Tune in and get inspired to harness the power of Connectedness for yourself and your team! Additional Resources:  Connect with Brea on LinkedIn Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn How to Be a Good Teammate to me: Brandon@34strong.com Learn more about 34 Strong Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Understanding Connectedness – Connectedness sees interrelationships and patterns in ideas, people, and even across time. It's especially effective at fostering unity and promoting a shared purpose. Application in Leadership and Coaching – Leaders with Connectedness can inspire and rally teams by intuitively spotting common ground and resolving conflict through shared goals. Personal Growth with Connectedness – Developing Connectedness starts with self-awareness and trusting one's instincts, using this strength to forge relationships and facilitate a larger sense of community.  

Live from CultureCon in Madison, Wisconsin, Nikki sits down with Joey Williams, Culture Specialist at Healthpeak Properties, aka “HR Fun Uncle,” to discuss his unique career journey and approach to building a culture where every voice is heard. From handwritten birthday notes to creating channels for open feedback, Joey reveals how he fosters inclusivity and trust across the organization. He shares actionable strategies for breaking down communication silos, encouraging self-advocacy, and engaging leadership support for a truly collaborative culture. Tune in to learn how small actions and intentional listening can have a big impact on employee engagement and connection.   Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Advocate for Your Ideal Role: Joey's career shift from accounting to HR was driven by self-advocacy. By clearly defining his dream role, he worked with supportive leadership to create a position aligned with his strengths and passions. Break Down Barriers to Inclusivity: Joey emphasizes the importance of opening multiple feedback channels—such as town halls, focus groups, and one-on-one check-ins—to ensure that every voice is heard and valued. Follow Up on Feedback: To build trust, it's essential to close the loop on employee feedback. Acknowledging input and explaining decisions shows team members that their voices truly matter.

Self-awareness is great, but how do you know when you're out of alignment? In this episode, Rosie explores the importance of engaging others to support us in showing up as the best version of ourselves and remaining aligned with our core values. While self-awareness is a powerful tool, we often get in our own way, and sometimes others notice when we're off track before we do. Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network  

Live from CultureCon 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin, Nikki Lewallen Gregory, founder of PeopleForward Network, kicks off a new series that brings together the collective power of meaningful work and people-first leadership. This episode features the dynamic co-founders of CultureCon, Nick Lombardino and Zach Blumenfeld, as they share the origin story of CultureCon and their vision for expanding its impact beyond conferences. Joined by co-host Jasmine Bellamy, you'll hear how authentic connections and mentorship fuel the real magic at CultureCon.. This is the first of many episodes that will take you inside the CultureCon community – where leaders and organizations come together to change the world, one meaningful conversation at a time. Additional Resources: CultureCon 2025 CultureCon on LinkedIn More on PeopleForward Network Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Key Takeaways:  CultureCon's Origin: The event grew from small executive roundtables focused on workplace culture into a movement that now influences thousands of leaders. Partnership with PeopleForward Network: Both organizations are deeply aligned in their missions, combining forces to expand the reach of people-first leadership.

Is traditional employment... dead? Bold claim, right? But that's exactly what our guest, Josh Drean, is here to unpack. Josh isn't just tossing around buzzwords—he's a talent management and people analytics expert who's been deep in the trenches of workforce innovation. He's also the co-founder of Work3 Institute, where he's actively rethinking how we work, why we work, and (most importantly) how we should work in this new digital-first world. In this episode, we dive into what "non-traditional work" really looks like—spoiler: it's way beyond remote work and freelancing. Together, we explore why today's workforce is demanding more flexibility, autonomy, and purpose—and what leaders need to do right now to attract the next generation of talent (hint: it's not just about offering snacks in the breakroom). Additional Resources: Josh Drean on LinkedIn Work3 Institute  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

With big companies calling employees back to the office, does this mean the end of flexible work? Not so fast. In this episode, Katherine Coble tackles a hot topic on every leader's mind: the future of remote and hybrid work. Katherine breaks down the reality that remote and hybrid work are here to stay—whether we like it or not. More importantly, she shares three simple, actionable strategies to improve how you lead your team, no matter where they work. Tune in to discover how you can level up your leadership in a world that's forever changed. Because let's face it: effective communication is more important than ever. Additional Resources: Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

In this conversation, Nikki interviews John Nieters, the co-founder of TestRxMD, about living from our highest and best selves. John shares his personal story of overcoming addiction, prison, and profound life lessons that shaped his journey toward becoming a healer. Together, they explore the 10 core pillars of living your highest and best self—covering spiritual alignment, consciousness, emotional mastery, and much more. John is a true visionary in the wellness and healing space. Take a listen! Additional Resources: Free Wellness Consultation with John Nieters About TestRxMD  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Imagine disclosing your autism to a manager and receiving nothing but support. Andrea sits down with Shea Belsky, a passionate neurodiversity advocate and Chief Technology Officer at Mentra, to explore what it means to be autistic at work. Shea shares his personal journey, from his early diagnosis to a pivotal moment when he disclosed his autism to a manager at Wayfair. This conversation highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace where neurodivergent individuals feel supported, and where curiosity, respect, and intentionality can make all the difference. Leaders, take note: Shay's insights on creating psychological safety, avoiding assumptions, and advocating for equity are invaluable. Tune in to hear how neurodiverse talent can thrive when given the right tools and accommodations—and how leaders can play a critical role in making that happen. Additional Resources: Connect with Andrea Butcher on LinkedIn Visit HRD Website Connect with Shea Belsky on LinkedIn Visit Mentra Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Are you ready to lead the next generation? In this intriguing episode, Nikki sits down with guest Alafia Stewart, a global expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to discuss leading newer generations of employees. Alafia passionately shares how Gen Z and Millennials are transforming the workplace by challenging traditional systems and norms. From the power of personal branding to the need for flexible, transparent leadership, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on how to engage and empower the next generation of workers. Additional Resources: Connect with Alafia Stewart on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network