HR Superstars

We talk a lot about strategy in HR, but not enough about the stories behind it.  Too often, people-first initiatives lose their power because the "why" gets buried under data, process, and policy. In this minisode, Karina Young, VP of People at 15Five and host of HR Superstars, discusses why storytelling is one of the most overlooked skills in HR leadership. She shares how storytelling makes sense of data, experience, and business decisions and how HR leaders can use stories to earn buy-in for initiatives across the organization. For anyone looking to strengthen their communication skills, this episode will help you lead with more empathy and impact. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Karina Young (00:44) Why HR storytelling matters now (02:30) Translating your "why" across audiences (06:04) Do this to improve your communication skills Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/engage-to-excel-15fives-employee-engagement-playbook/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Employee For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo

AI can give HR leaders what they've always wanted: more time to focus on people, not paperwork. In this episode, Karina Young chats with Anthony Onesto and Theresa Fesinstine about how people leaders can confidently adopt AI without losing the human side of leadership. They discuss what most teams get wrong about AI, how to start small without fear, and why a curious mindset matters more than being tech-savvy. Anthony and Theresa speak candidly about the pressure to move quickly, the fear of falling behind, and the importance of HR leading the AI conversation rather than reacting to it. This episode offers an honest look at how AI can support HR's core mission of helping people thrive in the workplace. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Anthony Onesto and Theresa Fesinstine (07:17) Getting started with AI when you're not technical (11:30) Staying relevant through curiosity and experimentation (16:00) Helping HR leaders build confidence with new technology (20:29) Examples of AI tools supporting HR strategy (26:01) How AI changes the way we work (28:57) Balancing human impact and efficiency in the AI era Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/engage-to-excel-15fives-employee-engagement-playbook/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Employee For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Anthony Onesto's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyonesto/  Theresa Fesinstine's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresafesinstine/

HR leaders hold immense responsibility but too often lack the authority and confidence to match. In this episode, executive communications coach and world-champion debater Kate Mason joins Karina Young to explore how leaders can use everyday conversations to earn trust and build influence. Kate is the author of Powerfully Likable and has coached executives across industries on how to communicate with confidence. Kate shares practical tools to avoid diminishing language, how to make competence visible through intentional communication, and why signposting creates calm and credibility. She and Karina also discuss the unique challenges women in HR face around power, how to regulate presence in high-pressure moments, and the importance of framing recommendations with conviction in executive settings. This episode offers actionable ways for HR leaders to strengthen their voice at the table, communicate with authority, and show the true strategic value of the people function. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Kate Mason (03:11) Kate Mason's journey from debate to executive coaching (05:17) Building trust when HR is brought in too late (06:44) How to demonstrate competence without downplaying your impact (11:48) Why many women hesitate to claim power in leadership (14:15) Practical tools for calming nerves in high-stakes moments (17:02) Recognizing what powers you up and shuts you down (23:12) Navigating executive friction and showing up with authority (29:52) Communicating effectively with CEOs and gaining their trust (35:38) Breaking habits that diminish your presence at the table   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance Review Playbook For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Kate Mason's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemasonphd/

The future of work is already here, so why does HR still feel stuck in the past? Despite rising expectations, many HR teams are still relying on outdated tools like annual surveys, rigid change models, and compliance-first programs. The result: employee experiences that feel transactional instead of inspiring. In this episode, Loren Blandon joins Karina Young to talk about how HR can finally catch up to the way people actually work today. Loren is a Future of Work Strategist and Fractional HR Executive with nearly two decades of experience across industries. Loren shares why HR should borrow from marketing and brand building, how she rebuilt learning teams with human-centered design, and the importance of creating programs employees are proud to talk about outside of work. She and Karina also dig into how to get past "check-the-box" approaches, why HR leaders need to put the employee at the center of every decision, and how grassroots energy often drives change more effectively than top-down mandates. For HR leaders carrying more responsibility than ever with limited resources, this episode is a call to bring creativity, empathy, and courage to the way we design work and to step confidently into the future that's already unfolding. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Loren Blandon (02:21) Loren's path from psychologist to HR leader (03:41) Why traditional change models no longer work (05:19) What HR can learn from top consumer brands (08:52) Breaking free from compliance-first HR mindsets (10:45) Designing learning programs people actually want (14:06) The role of AI in today's HR function (17:11) Addressing fear and uncertainty across every career stage (23:53) Using influencers to amplify culture and learning programs (27:26) The future of employee listening powered by AI (31:40) Practical ways HR teams are using AI today (37:00) Advice for HR leaders stepping into new roles   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/engage-to-excel-15fives-employee-engagement-playbook/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Employee  For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Loren Blandon's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenblandon/

Authenticity in leadership is often encouraged, but rarely modeled at the top. And in HR, the pressure to stay polished can make vulnerability feel off-limits. In this episode, Nicole DuBois joins Karina Young to reflect on what happens when people leaders stop compartmentalizing and start leading from their full selves. Nicole, CHRO at Graham Windham, opens up about publishing a memoir under a pseudonym, sharing her story publicly, and how that decision impacted her team and her career. Together, they talk about how HR teams can influence culture by showing up as humans first, what it looks like to embed compassion into strategic planning, and why trust with employees hinges on transparent follow-through. Nicole also shares how her team is building programming around vulnerability, leadership coaching, and belonging across the organization. For HR leaders looking to lead with more intention and impact, it's a reminder that honesty isn't a liability but a strategy.   Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Nicole DuBois  (01:25) The pressure to stay polished as an HR leader (03:18) Nicole's journey from policy enforcer to strategic people partner (06:22) What to do when HR needs HR (08:15) Writing a memoir while hiding behind a pseudonym (10:11) The moment Nicole chose to show up fully (12:31) How authenticity changed her team relationships (16:28) The loneliness of leading HR without peer support (21:25) Building an annual plan rooted in compassion (23:20) Supporting employees in emotionally demanding roles (27:20) Coaching leaders stuck in outdated management styles (33:23) Turning engagement survey feedback into visible action   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/engage-to-excel-15fives-employee-engagement-playbook/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Employee For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Nicole DuBois 's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-dubois-24568510/

Psychological safety is often discussed but rarely understood as a performance driver. Too often, it's treated like a value statement or one-time training session. In this episode, Dr. Bill Howatt joins Karina Young to discuss why that approach falls short and what needs to be done to make psychological safety measurable. Bill, Chief Mental Health Officer and Founder of Howatt Human Resources Consulting Inc., shares what most leaders miss about emotional well-being at work and how to equip managers with habits that stick. He and Karina also explore how conflict can strengthen teams, the problem with overcomplicated programs, and why less is more when it comes to learning. With clear advice on framing these conversations for executive buy-in, Bill helps HR leaders move from check-the-box efforts to culture-shaping strategy. For anyone tasked with building safer, stronger teams, this episode is a practical look at what matters most: how people feel. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Dr. Bill Howatt (01:10) Why psychological safety is still misunderstood (04:26) How employee feelings impact business outcomes (06:50) When HR strategy works in isolation (07:59) Reframing psychological safety for executive buy-in (10:15) Misconceptions about mental health in the workplace (14:58) Why most accountability efforts fall apart (19:21) Conflict is a missed opportunity (20:25) How trusted leaders navigate emotional friction (27:51) Building a real psychological safety program (34:07) Why less is more in HR training  Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/engage-to-excel-15fives-employee-engagement-playbook/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Employee For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Bill Howatt's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/howatthr/

High performers are often seen as the ones you don't have to worry about. But behind consistent output and quiet competence, there can be early signs of burnout and disengagement. In this episode, Melanie Naranjo joins Karina Young to challenge how companies define top talent and why performance without support leads to retention risk. Melanie, Chief People Officer at Ethena, shares a candid perspective on why high performers need more than praise. They need space to grow, permission to speak up, and help rewiring habits that no longer serve them. Together, they explore how over-reliance on top talent can backfire, why traditional engagement strategies often miss the mark, and what managers can do to spot red flags before it's too late. Melanie also offers clear strategies for re-engaging high performers and building a culture where expectations, accountability, and care go hand in hand. For HR leaders working to retain their best people, it's a compelling reminder: performance doesn't mean immunity. It means opportunity. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Melanie Naranjo (01:14) The hidden costs of quiet disengagement (03:28) Rethinking what "high performer" really means (06:26) Debunking the myth of passion and performance (10:19) Building flexible perks that actually engage people (12:58) Early signs your top talent is burning out (15:19) Questions managers should ask but usually don't (20:03) How to coach overwhelmed team members (22:30) Why surveys won't help you retain your best people (24:17) High performers suffer when underperformers go unchecked (31:19) Re-engaging talent through targeted development plans (35:25) What to do when a high performer is a jerk (38:23) Questions every manager should ask top talent   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's The HR Leader's Guide to Reducing Regrettable Turnover:  https://www.15five.com/guide-to-reducing-regrettable-turnover?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Reducing Regrettable Turnover eBook For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Melanie Naranjo's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-naranjo/

Workplace performance isn't just L&D's responsibility; it belongs to the whole company.  And yet, many HR and learning teams still treat training as a standalone solution.  In this episode, Kevin Yates joins Karina Young to reframe how we think about impact, and why the question isn't just "Did people complete the program?" but "Did anything change as a result?" Kevin, known across the industry as the "L&D Detective," shares what he's learned from nearly 30 years in the field and why measuring outcomes requires more than a survey or LMS report. He explains how to shift from reporting activity to proving contribution, and why L&D must be embedded in a broader performance ecosystem to make a meaningful difference. Together, they explore what most organizations overlook: how business goals get lost in translation, how legacy habits still shape how programs are designed, and how measurement can become a strategic advantage, not just a reporting requirement. Kevin also offers a practical lens for partnering across functions and building internal alignment around shared outcomes. For HR and L&D leaders navigating increasing pressure to deliver results, it's a timely reminder: meaningful change doesn't happen in a vacuum. It takes a village. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Kevin Yates (02:38) How the L&D Detective name came about (04:37) Discovering the passion for measurement in L&D (07:47) Aligning training with business goals (09:31) Breaking legacy habits in L&D practices (10:56) Shifting from order-taker to performance consultant (12:56) The workplace performance ecosystem and its importance (16:30) Why L&D can't succeed alone in impacting business goals (21:00) Operationalizing the measurement of L&D's impact (23:28) Activity metrics vs. true performance impact (32:05) Leveraging AI tools to enhance L&D performance measurement   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/  Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Kevin Yates's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmyates/

Even though people are at the heart of business outcomes, HR leaders still struggle to be seen as essential voices at the executive table. In this episode, Karina Young, VP of People at 15Five, sits down with Jeff Smith, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at 15Five, to talk about how to show up in the boardroom with clarity and confidence. Jeff shares lessons from working closely with HR leaders over the years and offers practical guidance on how to present people strategy as business strategy. They cover how to prepare for board meetings, tell compelling stories with data, and answer tough questions without losing trust. This episode offers an honest and empowering look at why HR deserves a seat at the table. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Jeff Smith (05:02) Jeff Smith on what happens inside a boardroom (07:13) Fighting for your seat at the table (08:31) How to communicate HR strategy in business terms (10:42) Organizing the data you're presenting (13:53) The value of preparing with your peers (20:29) How to prep for tough questions in the boardroom (22:19) Avoiding common pitfalls in presentations (23:22) The power of storytelling when sharing data (26:54) Building confidence and presence ahead of high-stakes conversations   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's HR Outcomes Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/hr-outcomes-playbook-unlocking-the-true-business-value-of-hr/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=HR Outcomes Playbook  For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Jeff Smith's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsmithphd

HR leaders are feeling the squeeze.  With limited resources and growing pressure to improve engagement, performance, and retention, many are tasked with building manager support systems from scratch, often without the time or tools to do it effectively. In this episode, Morgan Webb, Senior Strategic Advisor at 15Five, and Yen Tan, Evangelist, Expansion & Manager Products at 15Five, share how HR can take a more focused and sustainable approach to manager enablement. They discuss why blanket training programs rarely work, how to use data to identify where support is needed most, and why piloting and iterating can drive better results than aiming for perfection. This conversation guides HR teams ready to stop doing it all and start doing what works. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Yen Tan & Morgan Webb (03:24) Yen Tan on management journey and challenges (04:43) Morgan Webb shares leadership lessons (06:55) The current state of HR and why HR owns manager enablement (10:04) Managers are the bridge between HR goals and culture (16:26) The danger of generic training and what to do instead (18:18) The 70-20-10 model and learning styles (20:01) Piloting and adapting learning based on feedback (28:01) Overcoming skepticism and finding champions (31:41) Measuring the effectiveness of manager enablement (35:12) Continuous measurement for engagement and health (37:07) Using manager meetings and existing rhythms for reinforcement Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Manager Enablement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/content/15fives-manager-enablement-playbook-for-hr-leaders/?utm_source=&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast​​  For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: here:https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo

HR teams are moving from external hiring to internal impact. Will Howard, Practice Lead at McLean & Company, shares the latest research behind HR's shift in priorities, showing why retention and leadership now take the lead. David Hawthorne, Chief People Officer at AnchorPoint Management, brings a real-world lens to the data. He explains how to move from reactive to strategic, why data literacy matters, and how to rethink people leadership from the ground up. Together, they explore how HR can stay relevant by aligning with business goals and building the kind of leadership that drives results. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Will Howard & David Hawthorne (01:30) What is McLean & Company's HR Trends Report (04:29) Will Howard breaks down the new data (09:52) Turning HR's reactive response into a proactive strategy (11:51) The risk of HR losing strategic ground (18:52) Data literacy as an opportunity for HR impact (27:12) Rethinking leadership and career paths   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook:(https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance)  For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: here:https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Will Howard's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamjhoward/ David Hawthorne's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedhawthorne/ McLean & Company - https://hr.mcleanco.com/ Anchor Point Management Group - https://www.anchorpointmg.com/

Trends are everywhere, but translating them into real business impact takes more than reading a report. It takes HR leaders who understand their business and know how to turn insights into strategy. David Hawthorne, Chief People Officer at Anchor Point Management Group, shares how he brings 2025 HR trends to life by aligning people strategy with business goals. He breaks down how to scale leadership, strengthen culture, and improve retention in a high-growth environment, from hiring the right people and developing frontline managers into future executives. He also explains why HR can't operate in a silo—and how becoming a true business partner starts with knowing how your company runs.   Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: David Hawthorne (02:18) David Hawthorne's HR journey at Anchor Point (05:57) Shift from hiring to leadership & retention (09:16) Understanding business to boost HR impact (18:34) Moving from tactical to strategic HR (22:46) Leadership's role in reducing turnover (29:50) AI's role in HR now and in the future (40:09) The risk of not evolving in HR   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Click here to download 15Five's HR Outcomes Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/hr-outcomes-playbook-unlocking-the-true-business-value-of-hr/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=HR  For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here:https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo David Hawthorne's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedhawthorne/ Anchor Point Management Group - https://www.anchorpointmg.com/

Global teams give companies access to top talent and fresh perspectives, but managing them comes with challenges—time zones, cultural differences, and keeping everyone aligned. Alexandra Erman, Chief People Officer at BforeAI, knows what it takes to lead international teams successfully. In this episode, she shares how to foster connection across borders while respecting local cultures. She explains why businesses should move beyond country-centric mindsets and build people strategies rooted in flexibility, trust, and autonomy. Alexandra also dives into the role of clear communication and pay equity in creating a strong, unified workforce. Whether you're leading a remote team or expanding globally, this conversation offers practical insights to help your people thrive.   Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Alexandra Erman (05:47) Creating unity in an international workforce (10:35) Enabling asynchronous communication across time zones (15:02) Why early HR leadership matters  (18:18) HR metrics for distributed teams (21:58) BeforeAI's dual management system (32:20) Compensation bands and pay transparency (39:21) Intentional ways to support a global workforce   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook:  https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here:  https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Alexandra Erman's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandraerman/ BforeAI's Website: https://bfore.ai/

Being data-driven doesn't mean sacrificing the human side of HR. Data can be used to guide decisions while keeping people at the center.   Brittany Rohde, Head of People at Monarch Money, believes that HR can be both analytical and people-focused. She shares how to scale sustainably by using automation wisely, bringing employees into key decisions, and building trust through transparency. Brittany also explains why data literacy is an essential skill for HR leaders—helping them make better decisions, strengthen teams, and drive long-term success. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Brittany Rohde (05:58) Building a comp plan that's fair to everyone (09:26) Intentional scaling during rapid growth (14:32) How to get buy-in from employees (18:42) The power of transparency in open forums (22:28) Building relationships as a remote company (25:44) How to maximize employee engagement surveys (31:07) The value of mentorship for HR leaders (35:33) Setting boundaries for work-life balance   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's HR Outcomes Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/hr-outcomes-playbook-unlocking-the-true-business-value-of-hr/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=HR For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Brittany Rohde's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-rohde-970964b2/ Monarch Money's website: https://www.monarchmoney.com/

What kind of leader do you want to be?   Pause and really think about that. Or better yet, write it down on paper.   Susannah Robinson, Founder and President of Partnership for Talent emphasizes the importance of defining your leadership vision. In this episode, she explains how self-awareness, trust, and consistency shape leadership and why your approach should evolve over time. Having guided countless leaders through this process, Susannah shares how authenticity builds trust and fosters accountability. She also gives advice to help HR leaders become more business-minded, ensuring their work drives tangible outcomes that align with company goals.   Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Susannah Robinson (04:38) The value of fractional HR and org design (08:45) Why leadership self-awareness matters  (16:19) Evolving leadership styles over time (19:11) How to think about and handle mistakes (26:23) How to strategically embed HR into the business  (31:40) Making time for leadership development (34:09) Figure out who you are as a leader    Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's HR Leader's Guide to Reducing Regrettable Turnover: https://www.15five.com/guide-to-reducing-regrettable-turnover?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Reducing For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Susannah Robinson's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannah-robinson-ba7a581a/ Partnership for Talent: https://www.partnershipfortalent.com/ Beyond the Boxes and Lines:  https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Boxes-Lines-Transforming-Organizational/dp/195033693X

HR teams provide emotional, mental, and strategic support to their organizations, but who's supporting them? As burnout among HR leaders reaches alarming levels, it's clear that those responsible for employee well-being often struggle themselves.  Recorded live at the 5th HR Superstars Summit, this episode features Brittany Fowler at Kickstarter and Stephanie Smith at Tagboard as they share their personal experiences with burnout, the warning signs to watch for, and the strategies they've implemented to create a healthier, more sustainable approach to HR.    Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Brittany Fowler and Stephanie Smith (03:40) Recognizing the warning signs of burnout (08:52) Challenges that overwhelm HR teams  (14:35) How to support teams in times of stress  (21:34) Balancing administrative tasks and strategic work (25:28) Ways to boost employee morale (27:30) Using AI for admin tasks (29:34) Mitigate burnout through engagement surveys    Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Manager Enablement Playbook: https://www.15five.com/content/15fives-manager-enablement-playbook-for-hr-leaders/?utm_source=&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast​​ For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Brittany Fowler's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanyfowler/ Stephanie Smith's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniergsmith/ Kickstarter's Website: https://www.kickstarter.com/ Tagboard's Website: https://tagboard.com/

There is no magic formula for creating a happy and engaged workforce.  Every employee has unique needs and values, and understanding those differences is the key to building thriving teams.  Kelly Mackin, CEO of Motives Met, explains why a one-size-fits-all approach to engagement doesn't work. Her firsthand experience in a toxic work environment inspired her to develop a framework for understanding the 28 human motives that drive well-being. By uncovering what matters most to each individual, both leaders and team members can co-create a healthy culture where everyone feels seen and supported. Kelly also shares how leaders can begin taking small but meaningful steps to create a more personalized approach to work-life harmony.   Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Kelly Mackin (02:02) The impact of toxic workplaces on well-being (07:52) Debunking well-being myths (10:42) How to create space to honor everyone's needs and motives (22:42) Success story of motives being met at work   (26:13) Make a work-life harmony playbook with your team (30:44) Workplace well-being is mandatory   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Kelly Mackin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-mackin-52793110/ Motives Met assessment tool: https://www.motivesmet.com/the-motives-met-human-needs-assessment/ Work Life Well-Lived: https://www.motivesmet.com/book/

All teams strive for stronger connections, better communication, and true alignment. Offsites can help make that happen—but only when designed with purpose. In this episode, Jared Kleinert, Founder and CEO of Offsite, shares what makes an offsite truly effective. He explains how to move beyond basic event planning and create experiences that deepen engagement, reinforce company culture, and boost retention. He also discusses how HR leaders can gain executive buy-in and ensure your offsite is more than just a line item on the budget.     Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Jared Kleinert (05:23) Why in-person retreats are more effective than remote meetings (07:38) The logistics behind successful offsite planning (12:58) How offsites improve company culture and strategic alignment (17:09) Employer branding and attracting a multigenerational workforce (28:05) Making the business case for offsites and long-term ROI   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinayoung11/ Download 15Five's Performance Review Playbook: https://www.15five.com/ebook/review-process-playbook?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2_2023_Podcast_CTAs&utm_content=Performance For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: https://www.15five.com/demo?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Q2-Podcast-Ads&utm_content=Schedule-a-demo Jared Kleinert's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredkleinert/ The Offsite Blog: https://offsite.substack.com/ Offsite's website: https://www.offsite.com/

How do you create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and inspired to stay? Mark Crowley, author of Lead From the Heart and a pioneer in human-centered leadership, believes it starts with cultivating a culture of care. Drawing on groundbreaking research and decades of experience, Mark explains how emotions, trust, and belonging shape employee well-being and performance. Mark also shares the science behind the heart's role in decision-making, revealing how positive emotions, like safety and appreciation, lead to innovation and loyalty. He shares actionable insights for managers and HR leaders on creating a thriving team dynamic—one that balances well-being and performance for long-term success. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Mark Crowley (01:25) How life shaped Mark's leadership approach (04:28) The moment Mark recognized his leadership style (08:12) The heart's role in leadership and performance (15:20) The "rule of four" for workplace emotions (16:53) Addressing resistance to heart-centered leadership (24:13) Tips for HR to drive meaningful change (28:28) HR needs both a heart and a backbone (31:26) Belonging's impact on team performance (36:45) The power of one-on-ones for remote teams   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn. Click here to download 15Five's Employee Engagement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here. Mark Crowley's LinkedIn - click here!

Burnout isn't a sign of overwork—it's a sign of internal misalignment. In this replay episode, leadership coach Jim Marsden reframes burnout as a powerful signal to realign with your values and purpose. He shares advice on how to combat burnout by embracing curiosity, reconnecting with nature, and finding small but meaningful moments of perspective. Jim also introduces his "street-of-life" metaphor, a framework for identifying stress states and shifting to a more grounded, intentional mindset. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jim Marsden (04:09) The deep roots of burnout (07:57) Why it's important to find perspective (13:57) The street-of-life concept for navigating stress (19:45) Supporting others during burnout (24:07) Practical steps to regain balance (32:05) Avoiding big decisions during stress and finding small wins (34:42) Dare to imagine: Aligning your work with what truly brings you alive   Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina's thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn. Click here to download 15Five's HR Outcomes Playbook! And don't forget to sign up for the HR Superstars Summit 2025 here. For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here. Jim Marsden's LinkedIn - click here!