Podcasts about peopleforward network

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live from the PeopleForward Network studio at CultureCon® 2025, this episode dives into how people leaders can ditch outdated playbooks and embrace a bold, modern approach to leading humans.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

In this episode, Greg Verdino joins Jason Cochran to explore what it really means to lead through AI disruption — without losing the human heartbeat of your business. From fear to future-forward thinking, they dive into what leaders often get wrong about automation, and how to focus on what humans do best. Greg shares insights on empathy in the age of AI, the importance of adaptability, and how to create cultures that thrive with change, not in spite of it. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, rethinking your role, or trying to lead a team through transformation, this episode is both a caution and a call to rise. Additional Resources: Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregverdino/ Join the PFN Community: https://community.peopleforwardnetwork.com/sign_up?request_host=community.peopleforwardnetwork.com&user[invitation_token]=43bbc5f192b8ac515b0c44bdfac7951d8cc7fc72-4b4aa546-ba57-4904-b9fb-2ced53e9af12#email 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: AI won't replace leaders — but leaders who ignore it might replace themselves. The real threat isn't the tech itself, but how disconnected we become from the human experience. Adaptability is no longer optional — it's the defining trait of future-ready organizations. The most successful leaders will blend curiosity, empathy, and clarity in times of disruption. Automation should elevate humanity, not erase it — that starts with culture, not code.

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.

Slow is smooth, smooth is fast — the strength of Deliberative thinking

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.

In this episode, KL Shaw joins Jason Cochran to break down what it really means to own your career journey — especially in today's uncertain job market. From layoffs to layoffs to leaps of faith, they explore how to shift from fear into action. KL shares powerful coaching insights on getting clear about your purpose, making your impact visible, and building authentic relationships that open real doors — not just resumes. Whether you're navigating change, burnout, or dreaming about something new, this conversation is your roadmap. Additional Resources: Connect with KL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keri-lynne-shaw/ https://thesalarybump.com/ 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: Take control of your career by stepping into the driver's seat and leading your own path. Gain clarity by identifying what you love, what you're great at, and how you want to make an impact. Keep an ongoing impact list to track your accomplishments and showcase your value. Focus on networking, as most job opportunities come through relationships — not online applications. Craft and practice a concise, compelling 90-second story about who you are and what you bring.

Looking back to move forward

Leading with fairness, showing up with Consistency ⚖️ What does it take to lead well — especially when things get unpredictable? In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon, Kevin, and Alisa unpack the strength of Consistency and how it anchors their leadership. They explore how Consistency pairs with Strengths like Discipline and Responsibility, and how it shapes their approach to fairness, structure, and decision-making. From team dynamics to everyday routines, they share real stories of staying steady under pressure — and knowing when to flex.

Finding peace, purpose, and power through connection

In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with Michael Morgan and Scott Himes from Medallion Partners to explore the evolving landscape of executive search and talent acquisition. They discuss the significant uncertainties and changes in the industry, the critical importance of succession planning, and the impact of AI on the workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to new realities, make wise decisions in talent acquisition, and the importance of change management in navigating these challenges. Additional Resources: https://medallionpartnersinc.com/contact-medallion/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-morgan-career/ Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotthimes/ 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: Uncertainty is a prevailing theme in executive hiring today. The pace of change in the industry is faster than ever. Organizations face a talent crisis due to retiring leaders. Succession planning is often neglected, leading to risks. Cultural fit is essential for new hires to drive change.

Turning Competition into connection—and fuel for growth.

In this episode of Growth on Purpose, Claire dives into the final pillar of her growth methodology: Alignment on What Matters

What does it really mean to lead with Communication?

Lead with clarity: embracing the strength of Command

What drives you? Unlock the strength of Belief

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Josh Drean explore the rapidly changing landscape of work, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and its implications for employment. They discuss the uncertainty surrounding AI's capabilities, the importance of human connection in the workplace, and the need for a new employment model that prioritizes meaningful work. The conversation highlights the ethical considerations of AI integration, the challenges faced by HR, and the necessity for strategic implementation of AI tools to enhance productivity without sacrificing employee experience. In this conversation, Josh Drean and Jason Cochran explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on the needs and expectations of the modern workforce. Additional Resources: Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshdrean/ Check out Josh's book: https://work3.me/book/ 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 pace of change in the world feels overwhelming. Disengaging from news and technology may not be a solution. AI's development is still shrouded in mystery, even for experts. Honesty and transparency from tech leaders are refreshing. The future of work may involve more meaningful, mission-based roles.

Master of Multitasking? Discover the Power of the Arranger

Are you always searching for the “why” behind the “what”?

3… 2… 1… Let's go!

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.

✨ 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!

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!

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.

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.

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

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!