HR Leaders

In this haunted edition of the HR Leaders Podcast, behavioral scientist and Founder & Host at Influencers: Jon Levy joins us to reveal the chilling science behind why some teams rise from the dead and others crumble into dusty skeletons.We explore what truly drives high-performing teams in a world where hybrid work can feel like a ghost town 👻Jon explains why organizations must stop obsessing over lone “superstars” and instead invest in glue people, belonging, and intentional connection.We also unpack how psychological safety, shared rituals, and team norms bring culture to life, and how to protect your organization from “energy vampires” that drain morale 🎃🎓 In this episode, Jon discusses:How belonging and trust fuel performanceWhy teams outperform superstar individualsRituals leaders can use to bring culture to lifeThe impact of glue people vs energy-drainersWhy hybrid work fails without intentional connectionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, Anoop Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO at SeekOut, joins to discuss how AI is redefining recruiting, roles, and the future of work.Anoop shares his journey from Stanford professor and Microsoft executive to leading one of the fastest-growing AI talent platforms in the world. He explains how AI agents are already transforming recruiting - automating 70% of repetitive tasks - while freeing humans to focus on relationships, creativity, and strategy.He also unpacks how CHROs must prepare for a future where AI and humans collaborate as equals, why recruiters will evolve into true talent advisors, and how to experiment safely with AI to stay ahead of the curve.🎓 In this episode, Anoop discusses:How to use AI to make hiring faster and more humanHow AI agents are changing the recruiter’s role foreverWhy CHROs must redefine work before AI does it for themWhat the future of AI-human collaboration will look like in HRWhy every company should start experimenting with agentic AI nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, Sam Schlimper, Managing Director at Randstad Enterprise, shares how to reimagine work and unlock human potential in the age of AI.Sam explains why transformation shouldn’t start with systems or processes, but with people - their motivations, values, and sense of purpose. She discusses how AI can be a powerful catalyst for creativity and growth when designed with intention, and why the real challenge isn’t technology, but rediscovering what makes work meaningful for humans.The conversation dives deep into how to redesign jobs, rethink emerging talent, and rebuild organizations around joy, curiosity, and connection - not just productivity.🎓 In this episode, Sam discusses:Why joy and curiosity drive real performanceWhat sustainable transformation really looks likeHow AI can amplify, not replace, human creativityHow to rethink emerging talent for the next generationWhy work should start with people, not processes or toolsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Mark Lobosco, VP of Talent Solutions at LinkedIn, about the launch of LinkedIn’s new Hiring Assistant and how AI is transforming recruiting. Mark reflects on his 17-year journey at LinkedIn, where he leads global client-facing teams and helps organizations hire faster and smarter. He breaks down how AI is reshaping recruiting workflows, freeing recruiters from administrative work, and helping them find hidden talent with unprecedented precision. Mark also explains how LinkedIn built the tool responsibly, with transparency and trust at the core, and shares what’s next for recruiters as skills evolve faster than ever.🎓 In this episode, Mark discusses:Launching LinkedIn’s new AI-powered Hiring AssistantWhy AI fluency is the #1 skill for recruiters in 2025 and beyondHow trust, transparency, and change management drive adoptionHow recruiters save 4 hours per role and get 69% better candidate responsesWhy 70% of job skills will change by 2030 - and what HR leaders must do nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Bryan Power, Head of People at Nextdoor, about leading through transformation, building a “founder’s mentality” culture, and why HR must take the lead on AI adoption. Bryan shares lessons from scaling Google, Square, and Yahoo before joining Nextdoor, where he helped navigate an IPO, COVID, and now AI disruption. He introduces Project NAI-BOR (Nextdoor Artificial Intelligence Building Operational Readiness), explains how to unleash safe experimentation, and why HR can’t afford to be a passenger in the AI shift. The conversation also covers mental health, hybrid work, and the next frontier of employee experience.🎓 In this episode, Bryan discusses:Mental health as today’s workplace injuryHow to manage the uncomfortable truths of hybrid workHow Project NAI-BOR helps HR lead AI adoption at scaleWhy a founder’s mentality creates urgency and frontline focusBalancing experimentation with structure in AI policy and rollout🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Heidi Barnett, President of Talent Acquisition at isolved, about how AI is reshaping recruiting and why candidate experience now matters more than ever. Heidi shares her journey from marketing into HR tech leadership and explains why the best recruiters today act more like growth leaders. She discusses the shift from sourcing to screening, why resumes are becoming obsolete, and how AI exposes broken hiring processes. The conversation explores how TA teams can reduce burnout, partner better with CHROs, and reimagine hiring from the ground up in the age of AI.🎓 In this episode, Heidi discusses:The shift from sourcing to screening in hiringWhy resumes and degrees are becoming less relevantHow AI frees recruiters to focus on human connectionHow CHROs can reduce TA burnout and drive hiring successWhy recruiters must now design marketing-style candidate experiences🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Donnie Upshaw, Chief People Officer & Senior Vice President at Wingstop Restaurants Inc., about scaling one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands while protecting culture and developing frontline talent. Donnie shares how 70% of Wingstop’s general managers started as hourly employees, why the GM role is the most important in the company, and how intentional development, micro-learning, and recognition fuel growth. He also explains how Wingstop uses storytelling, internal podcasts, and community giving to connect 47,000+ team members worldwide.🎓 In this episode, Donnie discusses:Why 70% of Wingstop GMs started as hourly employeesWhy the GM is the single most important role in the businessHow to scale culture across 2,800 restaurants in 15 countriesBuilding connection through storytelling, recognition, and community givingUsing micro-learning, gamification, and mobile tools for frontline development🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Elle Lebourg, Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Hilti Group, about transforming TA to hire 55,000 people in six years while protecting culture and experience. Elle explains why classic change models fall short, how authentic communication sustains engagement, and why TA must adopt a product mindset. She shares how Hilti maps candidate journeys, balances global standards with local nuance, and keeps people, not tools, at the center of transformation.🎓 In this episode, Elle discusses:Using raw, authentic communication to build trust in transformationBalancing global standards with local cultural nuance in every marketRunning TA like a product team with journey mapping and key momentsWhy focusing on how people feel sustains change better than old modelsHiring 55,000 people in six years and what it takes to scale TA responsibly🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 episode, KeyAnna discusses:The ROI of recognition and its cultural impactWhy recognition is more than just rewards and bonusesCreating just-in-time, personalized employee experiencesHow AI enhances human connection instead of replacing itWhy trust, authenticity, and care should anchor HR strategy🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Jon Caldwell, SVP & Chief People Officer at Valvoline Inc., about leading people strategy during rapid growth and transformation. Jon shares how Valvoline, a 160-year-old brand, has doubled its retail footprint and plans to nearly double again by 2030, all while maintaining a strong “family” culture. He explains the company’s grow-from-within model where 95% of managers start as technicians, the importance of scalable HR processes, and how traditions like the “Oil Olympics” reinforce teamwork and pride. The conversation highlights how culture, leadership, and data-driven HR fuel both business growth and employee success.🎓 In this episode, Jon discusses:Maintaining culture and inclusion while doubling store countHow 95% of leaders grow from technician to management rolesValvoline’s transformation into a pure-play retail growth businessUsing training, data, and scalable HR to prepare for 20,000+ employeesWhy traditions like the “Oil Olympics” and Family Reunion fuel engagement🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Cathy Peterman, Chief People Officer for Tech, Product & Design at Wayfair, about navigating transformation, leading through change, and preparing the workforce for the AI era. Cathy shares her unusual path from studying international conflict resolution to leading HR at global brands, and how curiosity, resilience, and embracing discomfort have fueled her career. She discusses imposter syndrome, why transferable skills matter more than titles, and how generative AI is reshaping recruitment, performance, and learning at Wayfair.🎓 In this episode, Cathy discusses:Why imposter syndrome can actually signal growthBuilding careers around transferable skills, not rigid pathsPreparing engineers and employees for critical thinking in the AI futureHow Wayfair uses GenAI in performance, promotions, and talent acquisitionWhy leaders must balance vulnerability with confidence during transformation🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Adam Holton, Chief People Officer at GE HealthCare, about the mindset shifts HR leaders need to harness AI, personalize learning, and lead with authenticity. Adam explains why example matters more than instruction, why democratized learning is changing leadership, and how AI can act like a “superpower” for HR teams. The conversation covers embedding AI into coaching, rethinking processes instead of just automating them, and creating sticky adoption through daily use cases.🎓 In this episode, Adam discusses:Why sticky adoption requires integrating AI into routine tasksEmbedding AI into coaching and HR workflows for daily impactHow AI is transforming learning into personalized, scalable supportThe cultural mindset shift HR must lead to unlock exponential valueWhy authentic leadership is about example, not having all the answers🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Wouter Durville, Co-Founder & CEO of TestGorilla, about the rise of skills-based hiring and how AI is transforming recruitment. Wouter shares his entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind TestGorilla, and why traditional CVs are becoming obsolete. He explains how AI-driven assessments, resume scoring, and video interviews are making hiring more fair, efficient, and predictive. The conversation also explores the future of work, shifting skill demands, and why critical thinking and human skills matter more than ever in an AI-driven economy.🎓 In this episode, Wouter discusses:Why collecting multiple data points reduces bias in hiringWhy CVs and degrees are poor predictors of job successThe case for skills-based hiring and how to implement it properlyThe rising importance of soft skills and problem-solving in the AI eraHow AI-powered assessments and interviews improve fairness and efficiencyGet instant answers to any HR questions and global compliance in 150+ countries - at a speed of thought (Secure your 25% off): https://www.atlascopilot.com/offers/atlas-x-deelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Vince Molinaro Ph.D., NY Times Best-Selling Author of The Leadership Contract, about redefining leadership expectations and building a community of accountable leaders. Vince shares the four terms of leadership, decision, obligation, hard work, and community, and explains how organizations can embed these principles into everyday practices. He discusses how HR leaders can align executives during strategic shifts, strengthen leadership culture, and create the conditions for extraordinary performance.🎓 In this episode, Vince discusses:How to embed leadership expectations into HR and talent practicesWhy clarity, alignment, and accountability are essential in leadershipThe CHRO’s role in building a community of leaders during strategic shiftsPractical examples of how leadership culture change improves engagement and performanceThe 4 terms of leadership from The Leadership Contract: decision, obligation, hard work, and communityGet instant answers to any HR questions and global compliance in 150+ countries - at a speed of thought (Secure your 25% off): https://www.atlascopilot.com/offers/atlas-x-deelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Lucia Bucci, Divisional CHRO for Employer Services International (ESI) at ADP, about leading HR across 37 countries, embedding AI into people processes, and building future-ready teams. Lucia draws on her 25-year career across Europe and beyond to share how HR can stay relevant in an AI-driven future. She discusses automating repetitive tasks, using AI to support manager training, and upskilling HR teams to embrace technology. The conversation also dives into trust, authenticity, resilience, and why team engagement is the real driver of retention and performance.🎓 In this episode, Lucia discusses:Preparing HR teams for an AI-driven futureBalancing global consistency with local customizationBuilding trust, authenticity, and engagement as leadership pillarsUsing AI to automate repetitive tasks and streamline manager trainingLeading HR strategy across 37 countries for ADP’s international businessGet instant answers to any HR questions and global compliance in 150+ countries - at a speed of thought (Secure your 25% off): https://www.atlascopilot.com/offers/atlas-x-deelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we're joined by Vishal Thanki, Director of Talent & Culture at B&Q. Vishal shares how B&Q is intentionally building a multigenerational workforce that reflects its diverse customer base, while driving high performance across all levels.From gamified e-learning to pay parity, inclusive training programs, and real talk on what motivates Gen Z to Baby Boomers, this episode is a practical playbook for designing a workplace where five generations thrive together. If you care about performance, inclusion, and real HR impact, this one's for you.🎓 In this episode, Vishal discusses:Why engagement surveys drive better cultural decisionsHow to reflect customer diversity through your workforceHow store managers personalize support across generationsWhy B&Q invests in age-inclusive pay, upskilling, and leadershipHow B&Q creates an environment where everyone - from Gen Z to Boomers - can thrive🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - atlas copilot.Get instant answers to any HR questions and global compliance in 150+ countries - at a speed of thought (Secure your 25% off): https://www.atlascopilot.com/offers/atlas-x-deelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Will Leahy, VP of People at Greenhouse Software, about how AI is reshaping employee development and the democratization of coaching. Will shares how Greenhouse is leveraging AI tools like Kona and dynamic learning pathways to create personalized, in-the-flow training at scale while maintaining a strong remote culture. The conversation explores why the future of HR isn’t just about technology, it’s about using AI to amplify human connection, learning speed, and cultural cohesion in distributed teams.🎓 In this episode, Ryan discusses:How to build personalized training at scale in under 3 minutes with AIWhy traditional LMS models are too slow for today’s workforceHow AI can push learning to every employee, not just the top 5%Why organizational agility depends on real-time, adaptive L&DHow to meet learners where they are with SMS and Teams-based delivery🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Kyle Forrest, U.S. Future of HR Leader at Deloitte. Kyle unpacks key insights from Deloitte’s 2025 Global Human Capital Trends Report, based on responses from 13,000+ professionals across 90 countries. He explains how leaders can navigate tension between human and business outcomes, why 40% of work is wasted on non-value tasks, and how organizations are rethinking the role of managers, AI, and workforce experience. If you’re leading transformation or planning for the future of work, this episode is your roadmap.🎓 In this episode, Kyle discusses:How to balance agility and stability in today’s workforceThe importance of redefining manager roles in the AI eraHow leading companies are redesigning EVP to align with automationWhy organizations must reclaim capacity by removing non-value workWhy cross-functional, boundaryless teams will shape the future of work🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Lauren Nunes, Chief People Officer at Twitch. Lauren breaks down how Twitch is intentionally building a mission-driven culture while supporting employees and streamers alike. From Amazon-powered AI tools to flash mentoring programs and creator-employee connections, Lauren shares how Twitch is shaping the future of work with empathy, innovation, and purpose. This episode is a masterclass on blending community, business impact, and scalable support at one of the world’s most iconic platforms.🎓 In this episode, Lauren discusses:The role of weekly all-hands and employee-led guilds in reinforcing cultureUsing Amazon’s AI tools to remove admin and support employees at scaleHow Twitch connects creators with internal teams to strengthen communityWhy HR should build culture like a product—intentional, tested, and evolvingHow Twitch empowers employees through flash mentoring and self-service systems🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Seán Delea, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Greenhouse Software. Sean breaks down how Greenhouse is rethinking the recruiting experience with the help of AI, without losing the human touch. From AI-generated scorecards to candidate personalization via “My Greenhouse,” Sean explains how recruiters can manage a 121% spike in applications without being overwhelmed. He also shares his own journey from Cork to leading Greenhouse’s global recruiting, and what makes their ATS stand out in a crowded space.🎓 In this episode, Sean discusses:Why human oversight is still essential despite automationHow AI-generated scorecards and interview questions streamline hiringHow “My Greenhouse” personalizes the application journey for candidatesThe real impact of a 121% increase in applications and how AI helps manage itWhy Greenhouse’s ATS prioritizes candidate experience alongside recruiter efficiency🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.