People Warriors

Drama doesn’t just live in big blowups or difficult people. More often, it shows up quietly — in our thoughts, our reactions, and the stories we tell ourselves when tension hits. In this episode of the People Warriors Podcast, Heather sits down with Claire Laughlin—leadership coach, consultant, and host of the THIS Leader Podcast—to unpack the patterns in our own thinking that create drama, how to interrupt them in real time and respond to it in healthier ways. If you’re experiencing drama at work, at home, or in your own head… this episode will help you see it differently — and handle it better.

What if leadership success isn’t about pushing harder, but learning to last longer? In this episode of People Warriors, Heather sits down with Tim Stevens, founder of Leading Smart and a leadership advisor with over 40 years of experience, to explore why so many leaders burn out—and what it actually takes to last. This is a practical, honest conversation for leaders who love what they do, but don’t want to lose themselves, their families, or their purpose along the way.

What if chaos wasn’t a threat, but an opportunity? In the Season One finale, Holly Tate brings her signature energy to a conversation about starting scared, navigating uncertainty, and her READY Framework for turning chaos into clarity. This conversation has got practical steps for leaders, teams, and anyone facing a season of growth or change.

What if the old saying, “It’s not personal...it’s just business,” is hurting your team and your brand? In this episode, Amy P. Kelly shares insights from her upcoming book Work IS Personal and practical strategies for showing employees you care at every stage of the journey. We also dive into her framework for handling difficult conversations with clarity and care - a skill every leader needs to build trust and retention.

What does it take to lead frontline teams with heart - and still drive results? In this episode, Ryan Minton shares practical, people-first insights from his new book Uplifted: The Power of Positive Leadership on Frontline Teams. From presence to positivity, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone leading in hospitality, retail, healthcare, or any service-driven industry.

What if your goals weren’t based on status, salary, or someone else’s timeline—but on joy? In this episode, Lacenia Calloway shares a powerful reframe for young professionals chasing success without losing themselves in the process. We dive into the connection between spiritual and mental health, how to handle rejection with grace, and why joy-based goals can help you “fall on pillows” when life doesn’t go as planned. If you’re looking for a more grounded, purpose-filled approach to work and life - this conversation is for you.

What if the most powerful conversations weren’t just the ones that matter—but the ones that create matter? In this episode, connection expert Chad Littlefield - co-founder of We and Me, Inc. - shares practical, human-centered strategies for designing conversations that lead to action and lasting impact. We talk about moving from consumption to contribution, building authentic connection, and creating space where people feel seen, heard, and energized to engage. If you're a leader, facilitator, or team builder who wants to elevate the quality of connection on your team—this episode is for you.

In this episode, I'm joined by Spud Marshall - author, facilitator, and creative community builder - who shares how he stayed in his small town and helped reinvent it through scrappy, wildly imaginative ventures. Together, we explore what real community looks like, how to engage people at every level of an organization, and why potlucks might just beat PowerPoints when it comes to innovation. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of where to begin, Spud’s practical wisdom and inspiring journey will help you take your first unconventional step from dreamer to doer.

In this episode, I chat with Pastor Jim Johnson - storyteller, spiritual mentor, and co-founding pastor of Preston Trail Community Church - for a candid conversation about work, calling, and the purpose God weaves into our careers. Whether you’re feeling stuck, thriving, burned out, or simply searching for meaning in your job, this episode offers timeless biblical wisdom and practical encouragement. We talk about the difference between calling and occupation, how to navigate career crossroads with faith, and why even the hardest jobs can be part of God's design. If you've ever questioned the value of your work or wondered if you're where you're meant to be—this conversation is for you.

What does it take to build—and sustain—the #1 Westin in the world? In this episode, I sit down with Volkan Tekinkoc, (former) General Manager of The Westin Dallas Southlake, to unpack the remarkable culture transformation that took his team from disconnected and average to top-ranked worldwide. We explore the systems, leadership habits, and mindset shifts that fueled their rise, including daily huddles, team score ownership, and a “never settle” standard. If you're a leader looking to raise the bar without losing heart, this episode is full of practical inspiration and proof that belief, consistency, and momentum can change everything. ***Volkan is now the General Manager of the Hall Arts hotel in Frisco, TX.

Hosted by Heather Italiano, the People Warriors Podcast is a variety-style show where curiosity leads the way. Real conversations with fascinating people about work, leadership, purpose, and everything in between—delivered in binge-worthy seasons, not just weekly drops. If you’re leading a team, chasing a dream, or craving more clarity and courage in your day-to-day, this podcast is for you.