Podcasts about Workhuman

In this episode of our On The Road series, we sit down with Amy Coleman, Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer at Microsoft, to explore how leaders can scale AI transformation without losing the human connection at the center of work.Amy reflects on stepping into the Chief People Officer role at Microsoft, the humility of becoming a beginner again, and why leaders do not need to pretend they have all the answers in moments of uncertainty. What matters is being honest, learning fast, and bringing people with you.Her message is clear: AI and humans cannot be separated. As work changes, HR leaders have to help people understand what is shifting, what still matters, and how AI can unlock more creativity, curiosity, innovation, and human potential.

In this episode of our On The Road series, we sit down with Laura Mattimore and Lucia Suarez from Procter & Gamble to explore how one of the world's most iconic companies is redesigning talent for the AI era.Laura leads global talent across P&G's enterprise talent systems, including hiring, learning, leadership development, workforce planning, and talent strategy. Lucia leads talent development, talent management, analytics, insights, employee experience, and transformation within that broader talent agenda.Their message is clear: AI is not just a technology shift. It is a work, culture, skills, and employee experience shift. For P&G, the opportunity is not to replace the human, but to build around human plus AI, with HR playing a central role in redesigning how work gets done.

In this episode of our On The Road series, we sit down with Kalifa Oliver, Ph.D. Senior Director of Technology - People Analytics at Lowe's Companies, Inc. to explore why HR needs to stop chasing AI tools and start solving the right business problems.Kalifa now sits in technology, not HR, leading teams across engineering, product, analytics, and people data. That gives her a very different view of what HR transformation actually requires.Her message is clear: AI is not magic. It will only be useful if HR asks better questions, understands the problem it is trying to solve, and stops adding technology on top of broken or unnecessary work.

In this episode of our On The Road series, we sit down with KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman, to explore how organizations can identify future leaders before they are already in the obvious succession pipeline.KeyAnna shares how Workhuman's Future Leaders technology is helping companies spot the people giving off strong leadership signals across the business, including those who may not be visible through traditional talent reviews, manager nominations, or proximity to senior leaders.Her message is clear: the best future leaders are not always the most obvious names in the room. If HR can use better signals to see talent earlier, organizations can retain, develop, and invest in people before they walk out the door.

In this episode of our On The Road series, we sit down with Jennifer Reimert, SVP, Consulting Practice at Workhuman, to explore how organizations can make recognition reach the people who are often hardest to reach: frontline and deskless workers.Jennifer spent 20 years as an HR practitioner and total rewards leader before joining Workhuman. She was also a Workhuman customer back when the company was Globoforce, using recognition to help bring two merged companies together when culture, identity, and belonging were under real pressure.Her message is clear: recognition cannot only work for people at a desk. If most of the work that defines your culture happens on the floor, in the field, in hospitals, in plants, in stores, or across customer sites, then recognition has to meet people where they actually work.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast On The Road, we sit down with Eric Mosley, Founder and CEO at Workhuman to explore how recognition data, AI, and human insight are changing the way organizations identify their future leaders.Eric shares how Workhuman's new Future Leaders capability uses recognition data, performance data, and AI to identify the people most likely to rise into senior leadership roles years before they are officially promoted.And this is where it gets really interesting.Eric says the strongest signals are not coming from a traditional succession planning form. They are coming from the language people use about each other, the recognition moments that describe how work actually gets done, and the patterns that emerge across billions of human interactions.

Now that AI can generate endless content, what is the true strategic value of a human-led content strategy?Agility requires more than just adopting the latest tools; it demands a foundational strategy that allows you to integrate new capabilities without disrupting the core customer experience. This means being able to distinguish between a promising innovation and a distraction.Today, we're going to talk about moving beyond the hype cycle to build a marketing technology ecosystem that actually delivers. We'll explore how to treat content orchestration not as a task but as a core strategic discipline, how to make AI a practical asset rather than a science project, and why so many CMOs are re-evaluating what they truly need from their platforms and partners.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Jennifer Griffin Smith, CMO at Acquia back to the show. About Jennifer Griffin Smith A well-respected international marketing executive, Jennifer Griffin Smith has more than 20 years of experience managing go-to-market strategies and corporate communications for public and private technology companies. She focuses on the needs of customers and partners in the ever-changing digital world, ensuring that Acquia solutions deliver exceptional value today and in the future, and that all programs and communications are addressing the unique needs of customers.Jennifer leads the global marketing organization, including product marketing, GTM programs for customers and new business, brand, and marketing communications. With her extensive experience as a B2B marketing practitioner, Jennifer is passionate about new ways to grow awareness, improve marketing ROI, and create high-performing, award-winning teams.Before joining Acquia, Jennifer held CMO positions at Brightcove, Alfresco Software (acquired by Hyland), Software AG, Workhuman (formerly Globoforce), Avid Technology, and Progress Software. She has also held senior European marketing roles at Microsoft, PeopleSoft, and Information Builders. Jennifer Griffin Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergriffinsmith/ Resources Acquia: https://www.acquia.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that AI can generate endless content, what is the true strategic value of a human-led content strategy? Agility requires more than just adopting the latest tools; it demands a foundational strategy that allows you to integrate new capabilities without disrupting the core customer experience. This means being able to distinguish between a promising innovation and a distraction. Today, we're going to talk about moving beyond the hype cycle to build a marketing technology ecosystem that actually delivers. We'll explore how to treat content orchestration not as a task but as a core strategic discipline, how to make AI a practical asset rather than a science project, and why so many CMOs are re-evaluating what they truly need from their platforms and partners. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Jennifer Griffin Smith, CMO at Acquia back to the show. About Jennifer Griffin Smith A well-respected international marketing executive, Jennifer Griffin Smith has more than 20 years of experience managing go-to-market strategies and corporate communications for public and private technology companies. She focuses on the needs of customers and partners in the ever-changing digital world, ensuring that Acquia solutions deliver exceptional value today and in the future, and that all programs and communications are addressing the unique needs of customers. Jennifer leads the global marketing organization, including product marketing, GTM programs for customers and new business, brand, and marketing communications. With her extensive experience as a B2B marketing practitioner, Jennifer is passionate about new ways to grow awareness, improve marketing ROI, and create high-performing, award-winning teams.Before joining Acquia, Jennifer held CMO positions at Brightcove, Alfresco Software (acquired by Hyland), Software AG, Workhuman (formerly Globoforce), Avid Technology, and Progress Software. She has also held senior European marketing roles at Microsoft, PeopleSoft, and Information Builders. Jennifer Griffin Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergriffinsmith/ Resources Acquia: https://www.acquia.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Now that AI can generate endless content, what is the true strategic value of a human-led content strategy?Agility requires more than just adopting the latest tools; it demands a foundational strategy that allows you to integrate new capabilities without disrupting the core customer experience. This means being able to distinguish between a promising innovation and a distraction.Today, we're going to talk about moving beyond the hype cycle to build a marketing technology ecosystem that actually delivers. We'll explore how to treat content orchestration not as a task but as a core strategic discipline, how to make AI a practical asset rather than a science project, and why so many CMOs are re-evaluating what they truly need from their platforms and partners.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Jennifer Griffin Smith, CMO at Acquia back to the show. About Jennifer Griffin Smith A well-respected international marketing executive, Jennifer Griffin Smith has more than 20 years of experience managing go-to-market strategies and corporate communications for public and private technology companies. She focuses on the needs of customers and partners in the ever-changing digital world, ensuring that Acquia solutions deliver exceptional value today and in the future, and that all programs and communications are addressing the unique needs of customers.Jennifer leads the global marketing organization, including product marketing, GTM programs for customers and new business, brand, and marketing communications. With her extensive experience as a B2B marketing practitioner, Jennifer is passionate about new ways to grow awareness, improve marketing ROI, and create high-performing, award-winning teams.Before joining Acquia, Jennifer held CMO positions at Brightcove, Alfresco Software (acquired by Hyland), Software AG, Workhuman (formerly Globoforce), Avid Technology, and Progress Software. She has also held senior European marketing roles at Microsoft, PeopleSoft, and Information Builders. Jennifer Griffin Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergriffinsmith/ Resources Acquia: https://www.acquia.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that AI can generate endless content, what is the true strategic value of a human-led content strategy? Agility requires more than just adopting the latest tools; it demands a foundational strategy that allows you to integrate new capabilities without disrupting the core customer experience. This means being able to distinguish between a promising innovation and a distraction. Today, we're going to talk about moving beyond the hype cycle to build a marketing technology ecosystem that actually delivers. We'll explore how to treat content orchestration not as a task but as a core strategic discipline, how to make AI a practical asset rather than a science project, and why so many CMOs are re-evaluating what they truly need from their platforms and partners. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Jennifer Griffin Smith, CMO at Acquia back to the show. About Jennifer Griffin Smith A well-respected international marketing executive, Jennifer Griffin Smith has more than 20 years of experience managing go-to-market strategies and corporate communications for public and private technology companies. She focuses on the needs of customers and partners in the ever-changing digital world, ensuring that Acquia solutions deliver exceptional value today and in the future, and that all programs and communications are addressing the unique needs of customers. Jennifer leads the global marketing organization, including product marketing, GTM programs for customers and new business, brand, and marketing communications. With her extensive experience as a B2B marketing practitioner, Jennifer is passionate about new ways to grow awareness, improve marketing ROI, and create high-performing, award-winning teams.Before joining Acquia, Jennifer held CMO positions at Brightcove, Alfresco Software (acquired by Hyland), Software AG, Workhuman (formerly Globoforce), Avid Technology, and Progress Software. She has also held senior European marketing roles at Microsoft, PeopleSoft, and Information Builders. Jennifer Griffin Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergriffinsmith/ Resources Acquia: https://www.acquia.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Dublin Tech Summit, the marquee event of Ireland's inaugural Dublin Tech Week, has announced a compelling lineup of fireside chats and featured sessions for its 2026 edition, taking place on May 28–29 at the RDS in Dublin. These panels will spotlight influential figures from the realms of music, technology and entrepreneurship, offering attendees unique insights into the evolving landscape of innovation. Key fireside chats include: Proof of Human: Building the Provenance Layer for the AI Age – A conversation with Andrew Melchior, CTO of Massive Attack and Founder of deep-tech startup Genotone, as well as a composer with over 25 years – working with the catalogues of David Bowie, Sir George Martin and Peter Gabriel. AI, Media & the Value of Truth – Almar Latour, CEO, Dow Jones – In conversation with Jennifer Cunningham, Editor in Chief, Newsweek. Sarah Wynn Williams – Author and Tech & Policy Expert, Former Global Head of Public Policy Facebook. Doomscrolled: Music in the Age of Endless Trash – in conversation with Sigurdur Arnason – Co-founder & CEO of Overtune and Paul Hourican, Head of Creative Industries, Namier Capital Partners. Featured panels & sessions: Can Data Centres Survive the AI Boom? – Ciaran Flanagan, VP & Global Head of Data Center Solutions & Services, Siemens with Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1, in conversation with Carmel Crimmens, host of Reuters Econ World. Europe's Digital Sovereignty: Who's Funding the Next Unicorns? With Ayuna Nechaeva, Head of Europe, London Stock Exchange in conversation with Ülane Vilumets, Head of Global Expansion, e-residency. UpScrolled: Can Social Media Exist Without Manipulation? – Issam Hijazi, CEO, Upscrolled, makes the case for a radically different model. Eric Mosley, founder and CEO of Workhuman, will be honoured with the Visionary Leader Award at the Dublin Tech Summit Leaders Dinner on May 26. Mosley has spent more than two decades championing a more human-centric approach to work, pioneering the Workhuman movement. Alvina Antar, Chief Digital Officer at F5, will also be honoured with the Grace Hopper Award at the event on May 26. The award recognises a female STEM leader whose achievements have made a lasting impact on technology and society, empowering women in tech and the next generation of innovators. Clare Kilmartin, COO of Dublin Tech Week commented, "Dublin Tech Week 2026 will bring together some of the most prominent voices and innovators to address the most important challenges and opportunities shaping our world today." Daniel Cahill, Content & Programme Director for Dublin Tech Summit, added, "This year's agenda is designed to challenge thinking and spark meaningful dialogue, bringing together bold, diverse perspectives on how technology is reshaping our future." See more stories here.

This week I discuss the AI, HR Tech, and consumer AI market in front of announcements next week at the Unleash Conference in Vegas. I discuss how HR Tech is now becoming “Life Tech” (not just Work Tech) and the dynamics of big players like Microsoft, Oracle, Workday, SAP, ServiceNow, Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and smaller vendors like Cornerstone, Findem, Lightcast, Maki People, Eightfold, WorkHuman and others who are vying for attention with their AI offerings. Next week I'll detail many of these announcements in my keynote and I hope to see many of you in Vegas at Unleash and the following week at Transform. So much to absorb and understand: we are here to help you sort it all out. Additional Information Layoffs at Atlassian, Block, Amazon are Misleading. AI Alone Is Not The Story. The World of Corporate Training Lurches Toward Enablement Oracle's Earnings Prove That AI Infrastructure Is Eating Enterprise Software Enterprise AI Architecture: Imperatives for 2026 Webinar: Watch a replay of Josh's walkthrough of the 11 essential imperatives HR & business leaders need to know for success and progress in 2026. Galileo Learn: Complete The Superworker Organization: AI Goes Enterprise learning program, and discover the hands-on skills required to navigate the redefinition of work, HR teams, and organizations in the era of superworkers and superagents. Get Galileo: The Enterprise AI Agent for HR  Chapters (00:00:00) - All the HR Technology Announcements(00:07:29) - Oracle's strategy for growth(00:10:37) - Microsoft's Copilot, and More

Dublin Tech Summit has revealed the first of its confirmed keynote speakers for Ireland's flagship tech event taking place this May. Returning for its tenth edition, Dublin Tech Summit 2026 will feature some of the world's biggest tech companies spanning sectors including AI and cybersecurity, fintech, new media, and more. The conference will serve as the marquee event during the second annual Dublin Tech Week, a week-long celebration of innovation, community, and collaboration running from 22 – 29 May. John Willett, co-founder and COO of Rogo, and one of fintech's emerging leaders, will be joining the conference this year. This January, Rogo raised $75 million from Sequoia Capital, a significant milestone. As the company opens its first international office in London to accelerate expansion across Europe, John is leading the charge on the ground, building strategic partnerships with European financial institutions and driving successful implementation and adoption. Recognised on the 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 list, John represents a new generation of operators scaling high-growth technology companies onto the global stage. Dublin Tech Summit will also host Paul Hourican, Head of Creative Industries at Napier Capital Partners. Paul has extensive experience in the music industry, having acted as Global Head of Music at TikTok, Head of Talent and Music at MTV, and senior leadership roles at YouTube. His deep understanding of creative industries, digital transformation, and audience engagement positions him as a leading voice on the evolving relationship between music, media, and technology. Ken Moore, Chief Innovation Officer of Mastercard will also be joining Dublin Tech Summit as a keynote speaker. A veteran of the tech industry, Ken brings decades of experience leading large-scale digital transformation across global organisations. He is widely recognised for his expertise in driving innovation within complex ecosystems, advancing secure digital payments infrastructure, and embedding emerging technologies into enterprise strategy to deliver long-term growth and resilience. Other Dublin Tech Summit speakers will include Bianca Zwart, Chief Strategy Officer at Bunq, Thomas Zimmermann, CEO of FreeNow, Sigurdur Arnason, co-founder and CEO of Overtune, and Eric Mosley, founder and CEO of Workhuman, with more to be announced soon. With a lineup of top-tier speakers, the conference will feature impactful platforms that bring together high-growth startups, disruptive scaleups, and forward-thinking industry leaders to explore the forces shaping the tech world-and beyond. This will include the Tech Hive stage which, through a unique silent-disco format, will showcase deep technical content from areas of quantum computing, cybersecurity, and blockchain. The Tech Hive stage represents the cutting edge of deep tech exploration, where developers, engineers, and technical innovators come together to tackle complex challenges in AI, software development, and emerging technologies. Clare Kilmartin, Chief Operating Officer, Dublin Tech Summit, said: "Since the first Dublin Tech Summit ten years ago, we've grown into one of the impactful tech events in Europe, uniting thought leaders from across the globe to foster conversation, innovation, and collaboration. This year's line-up of speakers represents the forefront of technological innovation, and highlights the calibre of our event." Dublin Tech Week, 22 – 29 May 2026: A Collaborative Celebration Of Innovation In Dublin brings together the city's tech leaders, educators, creatives and public through a vibrant series of events, showcasing Dublin as a dynamic global tech hub. As the flagship event of the week-long celebration of all things tech, Dublin Tech Summit highlights STEM engagement, fosters connections and the intersection of tech, culture, work and everyday life. See more stories here.

Jen Fisher discusses the strategic value of hope—and how leaders can harness it to improve wellbeing and transform the workplace. — YOU'LL LEARN — 1) Why hope is a valid strategy in the workplace2) How a few words can kill or build hope3) How to counter your brain's tendency to be overly criticalSubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1124 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT JEN — Jen Fisher is a global authority on workplace wellbeing, the bestselling author of Work Better Together, and the founder and CEO of The Wellbeing Team.As Deloitte US's first chief wellbeing officer, she pioneered a groundbreaking, human-centered approach to work that gained international recognition and reshaped how organizations view wellbeing. Jen is also the creator and host of The WorkWell Podcast, a TEDx speaker, and a sought-after voice at events like Workhuman, SXSW, Milken Global Conference, and Happiness Camp. At the heart of Jen's work is the knowledge that hope is not just a feeling—it's a strategic imperative. She helps leaders harness hope as a catalyst for cultural transformation, guiding them to reimagine work as a force for human flourishing. She lives in Miami with her husband, Albert, and their dog, Fiona.• Book: Hope Is the Strategy: The Underrated Skill That Transforms Work, Leadership, and Wellbeing• LinkedIn: Jen Fisher• Substack: Thoughts on Being Well• Website: Jen-Fisher.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Study: “Hope theory: Rainbows in the mind.” by C.R. Synder• Book: The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Dr. Edith Eva Eger— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Monarch.com. Get 50% off your first year on with the code AWESOME.• Vanguard. Give your clients consistent results year in and year out with vanguard.com/AUDIOSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Laura welcomes Navin ‘nuvs' Jain, Product Evangelist at Workhuman, to the show to talk about gratitude and recognition. Workhuman focuses on workplace cultures that foster recognition, and Nuvs is deeply committed to spreading the word on the power of thanks and elevating great work happening in organizations. He and Dr. Laura discuss why gratitude can disappear from workplaces and how it can be brought back. There is a tendency at work to think “well that's just their job” when work is done well, but Nuvs outlines the power of saying thanks and how research supports that appreciation for work done elevates employee mental health and productivity. Dr. Laura and Nuvs address how the workplace culture is affected by what's role modeled and that leaders are the ones who need to make the change. A lack of empathy and a rise of toxic bosses has waylaid appreciation, but the impact of offering thanks can't be ignored. This episode explores human connection, gratitude, and how recognition increases workplace wellness. “I've talked about emotion before, and empathy. And that's really what I think is a key difference when someone says thank you. First of all, they're expressing gratitude. They're recognizing something you've done. And that actually makes you feel like, oh, I matter. I'm actually doing something here for the organization. And that drives that sense of belonging.” - Navin ‘nuvs' JainAbout Navin ‘nuvs' Jain:Based in Boston, MA, Navin ‘nuvs' Jain is a Product Evangelist at Workhuman, and previously spent five years developing the core recognition features of the Workhuman Cloud. A Workhuman solutions veteran, Nuvs previously led the effort to bring Service Milestones, Life Events, and Inclusion Advisor to market. He is passionate about creating a culture of recognition and enjoys discussing movies, tech, and politics. Resources:Website: WorkHuman.comLinkedInInstagramLearn more about Dr. Laura on her website: https://drlaura.live“I Wish I'd Quit Sooner:  Pre-orders: Practical Strategies for Navigating and Escaping a Toxic Boss” by Dr. Laura Hambley Lovett - Pre-orders and AmazonFor more resources, look into Dr. Laura's organizations: Canada Career CounsellingSynthesis Psychology Pre-order Dr. Laura's new book today: I Wish I'd Quit Sooner: Practical Strategies for Navigating a Toxic Boss Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Eric Mosley, Founder, CEO, and Board Member at Workhuman to discuss how AI and recognition are reshaping the workplace. Eric reveals how companies can unlock hidden talent and reduce bias by combining AI with the human data hidden inside recognition moments.He explains why 80–90% of AI projects fail, not because of the technology, but because companies lack meaningful data to train their systems. Recognition, he says, provides a treasure trove of insight into real performance, collaboration, and potential.From the emotional power of gratitude to the measurable ROI of recognition, Eric paints a vision of the future where AI doesn't replace humanity, it amplifies it.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience (People) Officer at Workhuman, about reimagining recognition in the age of AI.KeyAnna shares how Workhuman is using AI to enhance - not replace - human connection, from just-in-time recognition to personalized career support. She explains why recognition must go beyond rewards, how to build cultures where people feel truly seen, and why strategic investment in recognition is a business imperative, not a nice-to-have.

In this special episode of Sales Pipeline Radio from the Innovation Pavilion at Cvent CONNECT 2025, Matt spoke with Jen Mangini Perry, Senior Director, Brand Storytelling, and Mark Correira, Director, Go-To-Market Technology at Workhuman. Don't miss an episode! Subscribe to Sales Pipeline Radio or tune in live Thursdays at 11:30 PT | 12:30 MT | 1:30 CT | 2:30 ET on LinkedIn (also available on demand). In just 20 fast-paced minutes, host Matt interviews the brightest minds in sales and marketing, delivering actionable advice, best practices, and insights for B2B sales and marketing professionals. Sales Pipeline Radio was recently recognized as one of the 25 Best Sales Management Podcasts and Top 60 Sales Podcasts—don't miss out! You can subscribe right at Sales Pipeline Radio and/or listen to full recordings of past shows everywhere you listen to podcasts! You can even ask Siri, Alexa and Google or search on Audible!

In this episode of Relationships at Work, we explore how recognition is more than praise — it's a cultural signal that defines values, fosters belonging, and drives performance.Host Russel Lolacher sits down with a workplace recognition expert from Workhuman to dig into:Why generic praise fails to make people feel seenHow meaningful recognition strengthens psychological safetyThe damage of performative or biased recognitionWhy culture is built from everyday moments, not posters on the wallThe global, generational, and leadership nuances in how people want to be recognizedIf you're a leader or HR professional looking to create a culture of trust, recognition may be the most underutilized lever you have.Hey! If you're enjoying the insights from our guests, you'll love our R@W Notes Newsletter. It's packed with guest takeaways, the resources that inspire them, and my own tips on how we as leaders can be better humans for the humans the are responsible for. Go to RelationshipsAtWorkShow.com and Subscribe Now and help the workplace be more human.And connect with me for more great content! Sign Up for R@W Notes Subscribe on Youtube Follow on Linkedin Follow on Instagram Follow me on Threads Follow on TikTok Email me anytime

Most leaders manage culture with dashboards that measure what's easy, not what's true. In this episode of Leadership Spark, KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman, challenges leaders to stop relying on outdated engagement scores and start looking at what really drives culture: recognition. She explains why traditional HR data misses the lived employee experience and how recognition moments reveal the hidden influencers, team dynamics, and unspoken values shaping your organization every day. KeyAnna unpacks how recognition isn't just a feel-good perk, but a source of human intelligence that shows who's thriving, who's struggling, and where your culture is strongest or weakest. Learn how to stop leading with rear-view metrics and start using recognition data to shape your culture in real time. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: AI without purpose doesn't serve people. It's why many companies have tried, and few have succeeded. Workhuman is one of them. With the groundbreaking release of Human Intelligence, Workhuman combines AI with real recognition data to help leaders do right by their people, and their organization. It's how you spot burnout before it leads to turnover. Or discover hidden strengths before they're overlooked. It's how you build a culture that's not only productive—but sustainable. That's what future-ready leadership looks like. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is helping the most forward-thinking companies lead with insight, empathy, and impact. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/    

The real game of the future of work is how to unstuck yourself from the past. As the workplace keeps changing, new expectations are reshaping what it means to work, manage, and lead. But instead of preparing, many organizations are just reacting to challenges, caught off guard by the shifts they should've seen coming. So what's behind this disruption? In today's Leadership Spark, we break down the five trends driving the future of work: new behaviors, technology, the rise of millennials, mobility, and globalization. These fundamental shifts are already changing how we attract talent, design jobs, and build cultures. If you're still leading with a 20th-century playbook in a 21st-century world, it's time to upgrade. Explore the trends, the real stories behind them, and what you need to do right now to stay ahead in this episode. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: AI without purpose doesn't serve people. It's why many companies have tried, and few have succeeded. Workhuman is one of them. With the groundbreaking release of Human Intelligence, Workhuman combines AI with real recognition data to help leaders do right by their people, and their organization. It's how you spot burnout before it leads to turnover. Or discover hidden strengths before they're overlooked. It's how you build a culture that's not only productive—but sustainable. That's what future-ready leadership looks like. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is helping the most forward-thinking companies lead with insight, empathy, and impact. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

We've built a world where products appear with a click and groceries restock like clockwork...until they don't. When the pandemic hit, it wasn't just shelves that went empty, it was our illusions of a stable, efficient global supply chain that collapsed. And it wasn't a freak accident, it was decades in the making. In this episode, we sit down with Peter Goodman, Global Economic Correspondent for The New York Times and bestselling author of How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain. Peter brings a deep, behind-the-scenes look at how global trade works, and what happens when it doesn't. We unpack the hidden risks and questionable logic behind decades of offshoring, our blind devotion to just-in-time inventory, and a relentless pursuit of shareholder maximization at the expense of resilience. Peter covers the untold story behind what went wrong during the pandemic and why it could happen again, why we became too dependent on China, and how consulting firms and shareholder obsession made things worse. We also dive into how AI could help (or hurt) global logistics, why nationalistic trade policies could hurt your business more than you think, and what the future of trade and sourcing looks like in a more unstable world. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: AI without purpose doesn't serve people. It's why many companies have tried, and few have succeeded. Workhuman is one of them. With the groundbreaking release of Human Intelligence, Workhuman combines AI with real recognition data to help leaders do right by their people, and their organization. It's how you spot burnout before it leads to turnover. Or discover hidden strengths before they're overlooked. It's how you build a culture that's not only productive—but sustainable. That's what future-ready leadership looks like. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is helping the most forward-thinking companies lead with insight, empathy, and impact. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/    

What does real employee recognition look like, and why do so many leaders still get it wrong? In today's Leadership Spark, I explore how one emotional moment completely changed a leader's definition of what it means to acknowledge and value your people. We talk about the silent cost of unspoken appreciation, why recognition should never be a top-down policy, and how small, authentic gestures can create lasting cultural change. If you think saying “thank you” is optional, you'll change your mind after hearing this episode. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: AI without purpose doesn't serve people. It's why many companies have tried, and few have succeeded. Workhuman is one of them. With the groundbreaking release of Human Intelligence, Workhuman combines AI with real recognition data to help leaders do right by their people, and their organization. It's how you spot burnout before it leads to turnover. Or discover hidden strengths before they're overlooked. It's how you build a culture that's not only productive—but sustainable. That's what future-ready leadership looks like. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is helping the most forward-thinking companies lead with insight, empathy, and impact. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Is college still worth it? As tuition rises and dropout rates soar, the big question everyone's asking is: how do we prepare young people for a future we can't predict? In this episode, Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, unpacks the evolving crisis in higher education and what it truly means to prepare students for the future. He sheds light on the rise of “adulting” classes as a symptom of a larger issue: students entering college without essential life skills. Dr. Robert gives us a peek into Kettering University's integrated experiential model, where students rotate between 12 weeks in class and 12 weeks in cooperative placement roles at real companies—not internships, but embedded work. We also look into why traditional four-year universities are struggling, facing declining public trust, overcapacity, and the looming demographic cliff, and how new learning models and market disruptions are forcing a much-needed reimagining of higher education. Dr. McMahan emphasizes that future-proofing students isn't about teaching them fixed skills like coding, but cultivating habits of mind: critical thinking, adaptability, resilience, and the ability to solve complex problems. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Imagine waking up one day and realizing the world changed, but you didn't. That's what it's like for many organizations today, stuck on a decades-long train ride, speeding ahead without ever looking out the window. The future of work isn't coming. It's already here, and most companies are still running on definitions of “work,” “manager,” and “employee” that feel more like satire than strategy. Work sucks for too many people, and it doesn't have to. In today's Leadership Spark, we break down the five major trends transforming work as we know it: evolving behaviors, shifting demographics, globalization, mobility, and accelerating tech. As we step into the future of work, organizations must get off the train, look up, and start designing work that actually works for humans. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

AI is the most powerful tool humanity has ever created. Yet, it's also a black box we barely understand. How do we build the future of work with a system that can make decisions, take actions, and sometimes… make it up as it goes? In today's episode, Babak Hodjat, CTO of AI at Cognizant, joins us to uncover the truth and the hype behind today's most powerful AI technologies. We explore the evolution of agentic AI, multi-agentic platforms, and how organizations like Cognizant are already using AI agents to streamline RFPs, HR systems, and even intranet interactions. Babak exposes the promise and pitfalls of large language models, breaks down AI hallucinations, and debates whether AI truly "understands" anything or just predicts the next word. We also unpack the difference between AI and algorithms, the current capabilities (and limits) of generative AI, and address the ongoing challenge of AI trust, ethics, and resilience in real-world business contexts. Expect mind-blowing stories about AI agents threatening to expose fake affairs, hacking game systems, and working alongside humans in a multi-agent workforce. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) are now responsible for shaping the future of work. But to do that, you can't stay in the HR box. To HR leaders, it's time to stop thinking of yourself as administrators and start showing up as architects of human transformation. The new world of work operates on an entirely new playbook, we can't keep putting band-aids on outdated systems. We must start reimagining work itself. In today's Leadership Spark, we're rethinking the outdated ideas about work, engagement, and the role of HR in shaping the future. We explore why perks don't create real employee experience, how employer branding often masks the truth about our workplaces, and what it takes to move from managing people to truly transforming how we work. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Today's agenda:  Check your surroundings (and wait three more stops…) Cringe corporate speak: open the kimono (and special bonus: mowing someone else's lawn) Hot topic: all things AI - being human in the age of AI at work with special meeting crasher KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman How will AI impact the workplace? Feeling in control in our roles Keeping the unique human touch while benefiting from AI efficiency AI tools can allow HR professionals to focus on the human aspects of their jobs Predicting how the workplace will be reshaped with AI Applying transparency, humility and authenticity to every role in the AI space Questions/Comments Thank you, Workhuman, for sponsoring this podcast episode! If you're interested in attending Workhuman Live 2026, click the link HERE for more info and register. Your To-Do List: Grab merch, submit Questions & Comments, and make sure that you're the first to know about our In-Person Meetings (events!) at https://www.hrbesties.com. Follow your Besties across the socials and check out our resumes here: https://www.hrbesties.com/about.  Subscribe to the HR Besties Newsletter - https://hr-besties.beehiiv.com/subscribe We look forward to seeing you in our next meeting - don't worry, we'll have a hard stop! Yours in Business + Bullsh*t,  Leigh, Jamie & Ashley Follow Bestie Leigh! https://www.tiktok.com/@hrmanifesto https://www.instagram.com/hrmanifesto https://www.hrmanifesto.com Follow Bestie Ashley! https://www.tiktok.com/@managermethod  https://www.instagram.com/managermethod https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/ https://managermethod.com Follow Bestie Jamie! https://www.millennialmisery.com/ Humorous Resources: Instagram • YouTube • Threads • Facebook • X Millennial Misery: Instagram • Threads • Facebook • X Horrendous HR: Instagram • Threads • Facebook Follow Workhuman! https://www.instagram.com/workhuman/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/workhuman/ Tune in to “HR Besties,” a business, work and management podcast hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson (HRManifesto), Ashley Herd (ManagerMethod) and Jamie Jackson (Humorous_Resources), where we navigate the labyrinth of corporate culture, from cringe corporate speak to toxic leadership. Whether you're in Human Resources or not, corporate or small business, we offer sneak peeks into surviving work, hiring strategies, and making the employee experience better for all. Tune in for real talk on employee engagement, green flags in the workplace, and how to turn red flags into real change. Don't miss our chats about leadership, career coaching, and takes from work travel and watercooler gossip. Get new episodes every Wednesday, follow us on socials for the latest updates, and join us at our virtual happy hours to share your HR stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The workplace is evolving, but not without friction. AI, culture, and leadership expectations are colliding, and while some leaders scramble to keep up, others are creating environments that feel more like day spas than places of work. How do you lead with kindness while still setting high expectations? In this episode of Future Ready Leadership, I spoke with KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman, about what it really takes to evolve workplace culture and leadership in a time of rapid change. We explored the current state of AI and its role in supporting, not replacing the human element at work. KeyAnna sheds light on the shift from compliance-focused HR to human experience-focused leadership, and how organizations can avoid the trap of over-accommodation and instead focus on clarity, accountability, and human-centered leadership. We discussed the misapplication of psychological safety, the dangers of therapy language, the importance of building resilience and critical thinking, and why companies struggle to define and communicate their true culture. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

We've misunderstood what it really means to lead with vulnerability. Organizations are falling into a dangerous trap of glorifying vulnerability without pairing it with accountability. That's why workplace cultures that enable excuses, not growth, exist. In this episode, we explore why vulnerability at work has gone too far, and how it's being misused as a shield from accountability. We draw a sharp line between simply being vulnerable and leading with vulnerability, which means owning your gaps and showing what you're doing to grow. When vulnerability lacks follow-through, it creates a culture of entitlement instead of growth. With all the changes happening fast in the modern world of work, leaders can't afford to not course-correct. It's time to redefine what vulnerability should look like at work. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman: Don't you hate how every HR company out there says they are powered by AI? The truth is most difficult if it's just fluff. Human Intelligence™ from Workhuman is one of the few solutions that actually uses AI to help you get insights about your culture by analyzing the recognition data of your workforce. It helps managers coach better, shows you where culture is thriving, and is so effective at helping companies make smarter decisions, Workhuman backs it with the industry's only ROI Guarantee. In a world of noisy tech, this one actually feels... human. Learn more at Workhuman.com and see how Human Intelligence is becoming a force for good in the workplace. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

AI is a double-edged sword—boosting capabilities while amplifying risks if used carelessly. Every leader today is racing to understand how AI will impact their business. So, how can you protect your organization? In this episode, Steve Schmidt, SVP and Chief Security Officer at Amazon, breaks down the real risks at the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and leadership. Steve shares why the biggest cybersecurity threats aren't just technical but human, highlighting how AI lowers the barrier for attacks like phishing and social engineering. We explore the concept of agentic AI, which doesn't just generate information but takes action; this creates new risks that would require leaders to rethink authentication, output validation, and compartmentalization. Steve also shares how Amazon speeds up security reviews by up to 80% with AI, all while keeping humans in the loop to guard against flaws. Today, it's of high importance to build a strong security culture, and address the rising risks of shadow AI inside organizations. Because while AI is a powerful tool, it's not a magic bullet. Leaders must pair AI with human oversight, robust training, and thoughtful guardrails to protect their organizations. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Too often, vulnerability at work is misunderstood as either oversharing or a sign of weakness. What many leaders overlook is how it can be their superpower if used the right way. In this episode, we explore how to lead with vulnerability without losing your leadership edge by pairing your openness with intention and direction. We discuss the “vulnerable leader equation,” a reminder that showing emotion or imperfection isn't weakness when paired with purpose. You'll also learn about the “vulnerability mountain” framework: identify what's easy (base camp), what's hard (the peak), and take small daily steps to climb. Plus, we touch on the importance of intention, the core of the "vulnerability wheel," and why knowing why you're opening up matters just as much as how. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's #1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Leading a business with 100,000 employees and $84 billion in revenue isn't for the faint of heart. Every executive talks about culture and results, but few have done it at this scale. So how do you lead without losing your soul? In this episode, Chris Nicholas, President and CEO of Sam's Club, pulls back the curtain on what leadership really looks like when the stakes are massive. He shares why purpose and grit—not ego—are the foundation of great leadership. You'll learn why 85% of Sam's Club managers started as hourly workers, how Chris uses “ultra-endurance leadership” to stay sharp, and why leaders should run toward difficult things. He also unpacks his trust formula to build trust in a massive organization, how to lead without entitlement, and how to connect your work to a bigger purpose. From energy and sacrifice to upward mobility and culture, Chris shows how business performance and people-first leadership can coexist.   ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Did you attend Workhuman Live 2025? The conference's theme this year put the spotlight on the fusion of AI and human intelligence. At its core, the event highlighted how artificial intelligence can be a partner in enhancing human decision-making, not a substitute for it. In this episode of the Inspirational Leadership Podcast, I invite Jackye Clayton to discuss each of our individual experiences at this year's Workhuman conference. Jackye is a strategic voice at the intersection of HR technology, AI, and talent innovation. As founder of People Puzzles™, she helps companies bridge the trust gap in HR tech, translating complex innovations into human-first, credible solutions. Known for her dynamic presence as a LinkedIn influencer, sought-after speaker, and Associate Editor at HR Gazette, Jackye's approach blends bold insights with authentic connection, empowering leaders to drive strategic, sustainable change in the workplace. Listen in to learn how AI should support strategy, not suppress humanity, and that modern workplaces must balance tech advancement with emotional intelligence and collaboration. You will also learn about the themes of conscious leadership, psychological safety, and the critical need to move beyond the outdated zero-sum game mindset in organizations. Key Takeaways: The importance of intentional AI use and employee experimentation. The role of data ethics, aggregation, and accurate storytelling in HR. Why there's a reinforcement that AI should serve people, not replace purpose-driven work. Why authentic human interaction, like appreciation and check-ins, is the true face of leadership. Understanding the challenges of creating real change in DEI work. The complexity of microcultures within organizations and how shifting company culture requires addressing these layers. How the Workhuman conference experience fosters deep community and belonging. The importance of expanding recognition beyond the workplace to family and other support systems. Standout Quotes: “Feedback is what we've already done and advice is forward-looking.”- Jackye [19:42] “Don't wait for confidence, action is what creates confidence, not the other way around.”- Kristen [21:32] “Humanity is not going anywhere; the importance of human skills is not going anywhere; we just need to integrate them with the AI.”- Kristen [38:11] ⇢ Get full show notes and more information here: https://bit.ly/Workhuman2025 If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow leader or tag me on LinkedIn with your biggest takeaway! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a dose of real, practical leadership wisdom. ➡️ Join the conversation on LinkedIn

We've all had the experience of working for a bad leader, the kind that drains your energy, stifles your motivation, and makes Monday mornings feel like a dreadful chore. But great leaders do the opposite. And in a world evolving faster than ever, we can't afford to leave leadership to chance. In today's Leadership Spark, we'll tackle two big questions: Will the leader of 2030 be different from today's leader? And if so, how? Backed by insights from 140+ CEO interviews and a global LinkedIn survey of nearly 14,000 employees, I share the timeless traits leaders must keep, and the new skills they must develop to lead in a rapidly changing world. Get a clearer understanding of what leadership really means, why most people can't define it, and what it will take to lead organizations, and society, into the future. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's #1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

As we head into summer—a season when team energy can dip and distractions rise—it's more important than ever to ensure your people feel seen, valued, and appreciated. In this week's episode, Jenni Catron breaks down why employee appreciation isn't just a feel-good bonus—it's a strategic leadership move that strengthens organizational culture, boosts motivation, and builds trust.Why this conversation matters now: According to Gallup, employees who feel recognized are 4x more likely to be engaged. Yet 65% of workers say they haven't received any form of recognition in the last year (Workhuman & Gallup, 2023). That's a gap leaders can't afford to ignore—especially as we enter a season where burnout and disengagement can quietly take hold.Jenni unpacks:✅ Why appreciation must become a cultural norm, not a calendar event ✅ No-cost strategies to increase motivation and belonging ✅ Creative ideas like “post-it parties” and gratitude rituals that leaders can start today ✅ How simple gestures—like handwritten notes—can shift the tone of your entire teamWhether you lead five or fifty, this episode will equip you with practical, meaningful ways to build a culture of gratitude—one action at a time.

The rules of leadership have changed, but most leaders didn't get the memo. We're leading in a time of constant disruption, fractured teams, and AI eating away at every corner of the workplace. It's no longer enough to rely on outdated mindsets, old leadership playbooks, and hoping for the best. In this episode, we explore what real future-ready leadership looks like. Navy SEAL and leadership coach Rich Diviney shares why it's not your skills, but your attributes, like resilience and adaptability, that determine how you lead under pressure and make you an elite leader. Keith Ferazzi, Founder, Chair, & CEO at Ferrazzi Greenlight, rewrites the traditional leadership script by laying out his “teamship” model for building teams that hold each other accountable. And finally, Dan Priest, US Chief AI Officer of PwC, shows how to stop fearing AI and start using it as a strategic edge. This is the mindset, model, and method leaders need to thrive and lead effectively in this next era. Don't miss it! ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

We often think of employee experience as a checklist: better offices, better technology, better perks. But we've been missing the bigger picture all along. In today's Leadership Spark, we dive deep into how employee experience has fundamentally evolved, and why it's now the most powerful lever leaders have to shape trust, loyalty, and performance at work. Drawing on research from 252 organizations and insights from 150 senior executives, we'll explore the real drivers of experience: culture, technology, and physical space. You'll learn why work today isn't just about what people do, but about the environment that shapes how they feel, how they connect, and why they stay. If you want to future-proof your leadership and your organization, it starts with designing an experience worth fighting for. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. These days, it feels like there isn't much good to go around in the world of work.  But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It's why they created the world's # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn't stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

What if the biggest thing holding us back from living the American Dream isn't our circumstances, but our mindset? In this episode, Mark Matson, Author of Experiencing the American Dream and CEO of Matson Money, breaks down what the American Dream really means today. Mark explains how your "screen" or the mental filters shape the way you see the world, your actions, results, and ultimately your life. He makes a strong case that the American Dream isn't dead, it's just being filtered through the wrong lens of the “juicy victimhood” mentality, entitlement, and resentment. He also explores how these mindsets are showing up in the workplace and it's killing growth. Mark also points out how many people today, especially younger generations, live as if they're still stuck in the coal mines of the past, despite having more tools, technology, and opportunity than ever before. He explains why leaders need to stop over-parenting employees because real change starts with personal accountability, resilience, and creativity. We also unpack how to build high-performance teams and how the concept of addition through subtraction helps you build a stronger team. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. Here's a good question for you: Who in your marketing department is a flight risk? How about: Where are your talent or skills gaps? Or: Which employees make up your next generation of leaders? If you couldn't answer any of these, then you need to check out Human Intelligence™, from Workhuman. By combining AI with the rich data of their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence unlocks insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement. Want to learn more? Go to workhuman.com and learn how today's leading companies are turning AI into a force for good with Human Intelligence. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

We've thrown the entire pantry at employee engagement from hot yoga to free snacks to branded hoodies, and somehow, people are still checking out. In today's Leadership Spark, we call out the broken cycle of gimmicky engagement strategies and look at what actually drives loyalty, performance, and retention in the modern workplace. Spoiler: it's not about giving people more stuff. It's about giving them something to believe in. We'll unpack why smart companies are ditching the perks arms race and building something better: a workplace that feels like an experience, not a transaction. If you're tired of short-term fixes and ready to build real culture, press play. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. Here's a good question for you: Who in your marketing department is a flight risk? How about: Where are your talent or skills gaps? Or: Which employees make up your next generation of leaders? If you couldn't answer any of these, then you need to check out Human Intelligence™, from Workhuman. By combining AI with the rich data of their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence unlocks insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement. Want to learn more? Go to workhuman.com and learn how today's leading companies are turning AI into a force for good with Human Intelligence. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

With AI tools becoming more common across HR and people functions, HR leaders across the globe are asking the same question: how do we use AI without compromising on empathy, ethics, and culture. So, in this special bonus episode of the Digital HR Leaders podcast, host David Green welcomes Kevin Heinzelman, SVP of Product at Workhuman to discuss this very critical topic. David and Kevin share a core belief: that technology should support people, not replace them, and in this conversation, they explore what that means in practice. Tune in as they discuss: Why now is a critical moment for HR to lead with a human-first mindset How HR can retain control and oversight over AI-driven processes The unique value of human intelligence, and how it complements AI How recognition can support skills-based transformation and company culture during times of radical transformation What ethical, responsible AI looks like in day-to-day HR practice How to avoid common pitfalls like bias and data misuse Practical ways to integrate AI without losing sight of culture and care Whether you're early in your AI journey or looking to scale responsibly, this episode, sponsored by Workhuman, offers clear, grounded insight to help HR lead the way - with purpose and with people in mind. Workhuman is on a mission to help organisations build more human-centred workplaces through the power of recognition, connection, and Human Intelligence. By combining AI with the rich data from their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Workhuman delivers the insights HR leaders need to drive engagement, culture, and meaningful change at scale. To learn more, visit Workhuman.com and discover how Human Intelligence can help your organisation lead with purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI is becoming more powerful and autonomous. What we once thought was a future trend is now reshaping how organizations are operating today. But the biggest risk of AI isn't replacement. More likely, it's reliance. Are you prepared for what's coming? In today's episode, Dr. Michael Chui, Senior Fellow at McKinsey and QuantumBlack AI, reveals how AI is rewriting the rules of competition, leadership, and even hiring structure. You'll learn why over-relying on AI can erode human judgment and creativity, how to build organizations that balance human decision-making with machine efficiency, and why managing AI agents will soon be as important as managing people. Dr. Chui shares how leaders can prevent “silent automation” from taking over their teams, what skills future managers must develop (including prompt engineering and oversight), and how companies can redesign roles, workflows, and organizational structures to thrive in the era of agentic AI.   ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. Here's a good question for you: Who in your marketing department is a flight risk? How about: Where are your talent or skills gaps? Or: Which employees make up your next generation of leaders? If you couldn't answer any of these, then you need to check out Human Intelligence™, from Workhuman. By combining AI with the rich data of their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence unlocks insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement. Want to learn more? Go to workhuman.com and learn how today's leading companies are turning AI into a force for good with Human Intelligence. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Most leaders think vulnerability is risky, but avoiding it is far riskier. Despite all the research and talk about authenticity, only 11% of companies view vulnerability as a leadership strength—and 84% of employees rarely, if ever, see it practiced. That's a problem. In today's Leadership Spark, we explore what happens when leaders embrace vulnerability, and what's lost when they don't. Backed by my research across thousands of employees and organizations, you'll uncover in this episode how leading with vulnerability isn't just about being authentic. It's a strategy for building trust, connection, and lasting impact. You'll also learn how to balance confidence with openness, and why your team might be waiting for you to go first in being vulnerable. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. Here's a good question for you: Who in your marketing department is a flight risk? How about: Where are your talent or skills gaps? Or: Which employees make up your next generation of leaders? If you couldn't answer any of these, then you need to check out Human Intelligence™, from Workhuman. By combining AI with the rich data of their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence unlocks insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement. Want to learn more? Go to workhuman.com and learn how today's leading companies are turning AI into a force for good with Human Intelligence. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

What does it really take to rise to the highest levels of leadership, and stay there? In this episode, I sit down with Mark Thompson, world's #1 CEO coach and author of CEO Ready, to explore what to become a CEO-ready leader. We'll look at the deeper work of top-most leadership: developing functional fluency, mastering seven leadership languages, and aligning your ambitions with the reality of what leadership demands. Mark shares the mindset and methods used by the world's most successful executives, why building trust with your boss is a make-or-break move, and how to balance confident humility with productive paranoia. We dig deeper into the sacrifices leaders make, the importance of building credibility before asking for responsibility, and how to cultivate stakeholder alignment across functions, not just within your silo. If you're eyeing the next big step in your career, this episode will help prepare you to lead at the top.   ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. Here's a good question for you: Who in your marketing department is a flight risk? How about: Where are your talent or skills gaps? Or: Which employees make up your next generation of leaders? If you couldn't answer any of these, then you need to check out Human Intelligence™, from Workhuman. By combining AI with the rich data of their #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence unlocks insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement. Want to learn more? Go to workhuman.com and learn how today's leading companies are turning AI into a force for good with Human Intelligence. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

We've made a huge leadership mistake and chances are, your organization is still making it. We've separated managers and leaders like they're different species. One is focused on processes. The other on people. But that separation might be the very thing keeping your teams disengaged and your company stuck. In today's Leadership Spark, I'm busting the outdated myth that leadership and management are two separate roles. I share a powerful story of a nuclear submarine captain that perfectly illustrates what happens when we train leaders to lead but forget to teach them how to manage. You'll hear why giving managers leadership training won't fix your ‘people' problem and why the opposite approach just might. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™.​ ​ By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more. Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Want to learn more? Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join their force for good. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Everyone's arguing about remote vs. in-office. But what if we've been asking the wrong question all along? Dr. Nicholas Bloom, Professor of Economics at Stanford and the world's most cited expert on hybrid work, joins to set the record straight—and clear up the way his research is being misquoted everywhere. In this episode, he debunks the biggest myths about remote work, explains why hybrid work has become the go-to model for most Fortune 500 companies, and breaks down what's really behind Amazon and Jamie Dimon's return-to-office moves. We also get into why AI is more likely to replace fully remote roles than hybrid ones, what most people misunderstand about productivity from home, and the three-part formula every leader should follow to make hybrid work sustainable and effective. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™.​ ​ By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more. Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Want to learn more? Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join their force for good. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

In leadership, what happens after the conversation often matters just as much as the conversation itself. Just like in sports, where athletes chase their missed shots to score on the rebound, leaders can recover from missteps by following up. Yet, many professionals leave these moments hanging, allowing misunderstandings to fester and opportunities for growth to slip away. In today's Leadership Spark, we explore why follow-up is a critical yet often overlooked tool for leaders. Checking in after a conversation can resolve misunderstandings, build trust, and create opportunities for growth. By taking the extra step to ensure your message is received as intended, you turn potential setbacks into learning moments. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™.​ ​ By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more. Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Want to learn more? Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join their force for good. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Remote work might be convenient, but it's not the game-changer people think it is. If you want to grow, succeed, and actually build a career, you need to show up. That's the message from David Sable, former CEO of Young & Rubicam and Vice Chairman at Stagwell, who believes employees should beg to be in the office—not fight against it. In this episode, David breaks down why in-person work still matters and busts the myth of remote productivity. He highlights that the best leaders won't waste time proving to employees why they should be there. We also tackle the real impact of office culture, why career development suffers without it, and how mentorship, collaboration, and serendipity shape long-term success. You'll discover all the reasons why leaders need to stop caving to employee demands and start running businesses the way they know they should. If you're wondering how to future-proof your career or just trying to understand why so many leaders are pushing back on remote work this episode is for you. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™.​ ​ By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more. Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Want to learn more? Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join their force for good. ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

Remote work offers convenience and flexibility, but can it truly foster the leadership development needed to excel? While virtual environments allow for increased productivity, they often fall short in cultivating the deeper skills that come from observing, interacting, and learning in person. In today's Leadership Spark, we explore why in-person presence remains essential for aspiring leaders. Gain insights into how face-to-face interactions with senior leaders, casual conversations, and observing real-time decision-making can accelerate leadership growth. For those with ambitions to advance, showing up when others choose to stay remote may provide a unique competitive advantage. Tune in to uncover how being physically present in the workplace can unlock opportunities, build stronger relationships, and fast-track your path to leadership. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™. ​By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals what good looks like in your company, with previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more. Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing.And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join our force for good.  ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/

What do Zone 2 training, VO2 max, cold plunges, and cognitive mapping have to do with leadership? More than you think. In this episode, Alex Hutchinson—award-winning journalist, endurance expert, and best-selling author of The Explorer's Gene—explains why the principles of elite athletic training are just as critical for leadership. You'll learn how top CEOs train like endurance athletes to build resilience, sharpen decision-making, and avoid burnout—not by working less, but by managing stress smarter. We dive into the real impact of corporate wellness programs, the difference between acute and chronic stress, and why organizations are treating employees like high-performance athletes. Plus, we uncover why AI and algorithms are reshaping exploration, how creativity is declining, and why the best leaders take calculated risks instead of playing it safe. If you want to sustain peak performance, outthink challenges, and thrive in a world obsessed with efficiency, this episode is for you. ________________ This episode is sponsored by Workhuman. HR just changed for good with the introduction of Human Intelligence™.​By combining AI and the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman's #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence reveals what good looks like in your company, with previously unobtainable insights into skills, performance, culture and more.Human Intelligence also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing.And it helps surface feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com, and join our force for good.  ________________ Start your day with the world's top leaders by joining thousands of others at Great Leadership on Substack. Just enter your email: ⁠⁠https://greatleadership.substack.com/