The People Dividend Podcast

In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne sits down with Steve Fisher, renowned design futurist, to explore how emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence (AI), are transforming the way we lead, work, and think.   Steve shares why it's essential for leaders to embrace AI as a collaborative partner, not a replacement, and how systems thinking can help us design more resilient, adaptive organizations. They dive into what it means to be future-ready, why curiosity and empathy are critical leadership traits in the age of intelligence, and how to future-proof your mindset in a rapidly changing world.   Whether you're a leader navigating digital transformation or simply curious about how to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation offers powerful insights to help you thrive in the future of work.   Key Takeaways:   AI is a collaborator, not a threat. Leaders must reframe how they approach technology. Systems thinking empowers us to shape the future instead of reacting to it. Curiosity and adaptability will be the most valuable leadership traits in the years ahead. Designing the future means embracing complexity, diversity, and human-centered innovation.   Resources & Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike   Learn More about Steve Fisher https://www.stevenfisher.io/  

In this powerful episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne sits down with leadership development expert Therese Miclot to uncover what it really takes to lead with authenticity in today's fast-changing world. You'll learn how today's most effective leaders navigate self-doubt, embrace empathy, and develop the emotional intelligence needed to guide teams through uncertainty and change. From overcoming imposter syndrome to mastering facilitation skills, this episode is packed with practical leadership insights you can apply right away. Whether you're an executive, team leader, or aspiring manager, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone serious about authentic leadership, resilience, and growth-focused communication.   Key Takeaways:   Leadership is about people, not power or process. Empathy and clarity are critical for building trust and driving performance. Great leaders ask better questions and stay curious. Facilitation skills help leaders support teams through complex change. Managing your inner voice is step one to leading others effectively.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Therese Miclot https://www.theresemiclot.com/  

"If you're not tracking the right metrics, you're missing the opportunities to improve your performance and your team's performance and ultimately your organization's results." - Mike Horne In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, leadership expert Mike Horne explores how people-centric leadership metrics impact real business outcomes. If you're leading a team or organization, measuring the ROI of leadership isn't just a nice-to-have, it's essential. You'll learn how employee engagement, retention rates, workplace culture, and diversity and inclusion metrics all tie directly into innovation, productivity, and long-term success. Mike shares practical strategies and resources to help you become a more effective, people-first leader, and shows you which metrics truly matter for growth.   Key Takeaways:   How people-centric leadership directly drives business growth Why engaged employees lead to better performance. Which leadership metrics actually reflect meaningful impact The role of diversity and inclusion metrics in long-term success Resources to help you lead with purpose and measurable outcomes   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike    

In this inspiring episode, Mike Horne sits down with Bronson Hill, a former medical sales professional turned real estate investor and purpose-driven entrepreneur. As the managing member of Bronson Equity, Bronson shares how he walked away from the corporate grind to create a life built around financial freedom, impact, and personal fulfillment. From multifamily real estate investing to humanitarian work combating human trafficking, Bronson dives into the mindset shifts required to transition from employee to entrepreneur, and how taking control of your time, health, and wealth can unlock a more meaningful life. If you're seeking clarity on how to escape the 9–5, achieve financial independence, and align your success with a greater purpose, this conversation is for you.   Key Takeaways:   Time is your most valuable asset, not money. Learn how to make the most of it. Entrepreneurship starts with a mindset shift. Health and fitness are foundational to high energy and long-term success. Wealth with purpose creates the freedom to contribute meaningfully to society. Success in one area often opens doors in others.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Bronson Hill: www.bronsonequity.com   

"Leisure has meaning when it's in tension with effort, when it's in tension with something that asks more of us than pure relaxation or fun or just even lighthearted stimulation." - Elizabeth Parsons   In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne sits down with Elizabeth Zelenka Parsons, a retirement transition expert and author of Encore: A High Achiever's Guide to Thriving in Retirement. Together, they explore how high achievers can find fulfillment, purpose, and meaning beyond financial success as they transition into retirement.   Elizabeth challenges the traditional view of retirement as "the end" of productivity, reframing it as a new chapter of growth and contribution. She explains why redefining success, planning in decades, and building strong relationships are essential for a thriving post-career life.   Whether you're years away from retirement or already planning your next act, this episode will inspire you to approach the future with curiosity, purpose, and balance.   Key Points:   Redefine success: Learn how high achievers can shift from accomplishment-driven goals to purpose-driven living. Start early: Plan for retirement in 10-year increments to build a more intentional and fulfilling future. Look beyond money: True fulfillment comes from relationships, community, and meaningful engagement—not just financial security.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Elizabeth Parsons:   http://www.zelinkaparsons.com/ or https://www.encoraco.com/.or https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-zelinka-parsons-3b58a52/  

"I'm a technologist at heart. I was a computer dork as a kid, and then I decided, I think it'd be really cool and you can make money building technology that just makes people's lives less hard."  - Adam Jackson   In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne sits down with Adam Jackson, tech entrepreneur and CEO of BrainTrust, a decentralized talent marketplace using AI to transform hiring. Adam shares how BrainTrust connects global talent with career opportunities faster, fairer, and more inclusively, by eliminating bias and streamlining recruitment through large language model (LLM) technology.   From his early days as a self-described "computer dork" to launching several successful ventures, Adam dives into the challenges of hiring at scale and how AI-powered recruitment tools are shaping the future of work for both employers and job seekers.   Key Takeaways: How BrainTrust uses AI to match top talent with the right roles. Why inclusive, bias-free recruiting is the future of hiring. How AI is improving the speed and quality of the hiring process. The power of technology to make work more human, not harder.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Adam Jackson https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajackson https://www.usebraintrust.com/about https://www.crunchbase.com/person/adam-jackson  

Feeling stuck in your career or unsure about your next move? In this episode of The People Dividend, host Mike Horne sits down with career coach Michelle Schafer to explore what it really takes to make a meaningful career change. From aligning your work with your values to using storytelling to stand out on your resume and LinkedIn profile, Michelle offers actionable strategies to help you pivot with purpose and confidence. Whether you're launching a job search, contemplating a career shift, or redefining success on your terms, this episode is packed with career coaching wisdom to help you move forward with clarity. What You'll Learn: How to align your career with your personal values for lasting fulfillment Why storytelling is your greatest asset on your resume and LinkedIn How to turn career pivots into proof of resilience, growth, and value Links:  Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike   Learn More about MIchelle Schaefer: https://mschafercoaching.ca/cultivatingcareergrowth/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleschafercoaching/

"When we start to share our story about our personal purpose, all of a sudden, the commonalities actually rise up. The more human we become." – Gad Nestel In this episode, host Mike Horne sits down with Gad Nestel, change agent and founder of Monadnock Consulting, for a powerful conversation on leading through uncertainty with empathy, purpose, and clarity. Together, they unpack the leadership trends reshaping teams today, why psychological safety is the foundation of high performance, and how humanistic values can guide sustainable organizational change. Gad shares coaching insights, stories from the field, and his experience helping leaders and teams navigate transitions with courage and connection.   Key Takeaways:   Why understanding your team's purpose and function is key to success How psychological safety and inclusion foster innovation and trust The impact of uncertainty on performance and how to manage it How humanistic values like kindness and respect support lasting change Why building real relationships in teams leads to deeper collaboration Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Gad Nestel    gad.nestel@monadnockllc.com 415.686.4083 https:// www.linkedin.com/in/gad -nestel-0884021/ monadnockllc.com  

  "In order to not feel stuck in the future, you cannot wait to get plucked out of obscurity into your next job—unless you have an incredible team of mentors and sponsors who are always advocating for you." - Gina RileyIn this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne welcomes back career transition expert Gina Riley, author of Qualified Isn't Enough. Together, they explore how to stand out in today's AI-powered job market, land your next role faster, and build lasting career momentum.   Gina introduces her nine-step model for building career velocity and explains why being qualified isn't enough anymore—you need a clear message, a compelling story, and a strategy that gets you noticed by hiring managers.   What You'll Learn:   How to craft a personal brand that sets you apart from other candidates Why mastering interview storytelling can help you win the job How to define and communicate your unique value proposition What it takes to build career velocity in a noisy, competitive job market How to boost your executive presence and become known for your expertise Why thought leadership is the new differentiator in professional growth   Resources & Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Gina Riley:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginariley/ https://www.talencegroup.com/

In this episode, Mike Horne explores how today's most effective leaders are cultivating resilience, not only to avoid burnout, but to build high-performing, mentally healthy teams. If you're navigating constant change, low morale, or stress at work, this episode gives you real, actionable strategies to help you and your organization thrive.   What you'll earn: Proven techniques to prevent burnout and build personal resilience as a leader. How to renew team energy, even in high-pressure environments. Strategies for managing workload, setting clear expectations, and promoting sustainable performance. The role of psychological safety and career development in retaining top talent. How to identify stressors and implement support systems that strengthen team well-being.   Links:   Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike    

"You have to help your leaders understand that the organization is not a machine. The organization is a living organism." - Ernesto Gomez   In this episode of The People Dividend, host Mike Horne sits down with Ernesto J. Gomez, executive leader and author of Regrowth, to explore how companies can reignite growth by scaling human potential—not just systems. Together, they discuss what really stalls organizational momentum, why stewardship beats leadership in today's world of work, and how embracing a humanistic, people-first approach to leadership creates a thriving culture of innovation and sustainable growth. Whether you're in HR, talent development, or executive leadership, this conversation offers actionable strategies to help your team unlock performance, drive engagement, and view your organization as a living, evolving system. Key Points:   Why a humanistic approach to leadership creates lasting results How to unlock employee potential and boost workplace productivity The difference between leadership and stewardship—and why it matters Practical steps for HR and business leaders to prevent stalled growth Why treating your organization like a living system leads to better decisions   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Ernesto Gomez:  Website: https://aspenmindset1.com/ Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernesto-g%C3%B3mez-arzapalo-8783ab43/ Ernesto's Book Regrowth on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Regrowth-Organizations-Overcome-Unlocking-Potential/dp/1959009176/  

"Even if an airplane can go at a thousand kilometers an hour, we're still really interested as humans in how fast a human can run." – Nellie Wartoft In this episode of The People Dividend podcast, host Mike Horne speaks with Nellie Wartoft, CEO and founder of Tigerhall, about the future of organizational communication, the real drivers of change management, and what it means to lead with a people-first mindset. Nellie shares her journey from Sweden to Singapore and her mission to disrupt traditional internal communications strategies. Together, they explore how to engage employees during change initiatives, why generic frameworks fail, and how companies can focus on outcomes over remote work policies. With the rise of AI and remote teams, Nellie offers strategic guidance for people and culture leaders on tailoring communication, understanding employee needs, and driving meaningful, measurable transformation.   Key Points:   Traditional internal communications have alarmingly low engagement rates—leaders must rethink their approach. Outcome-based strategies are more effective than rigid remote work policies in driving transformation. People-first communication means understanding your audience and solving real business problems—not just applying generic frameworks.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Guest Links – Nellie Wartoft linkedin.com/in/nelliewartoft tigerhall.com

Can joy actually make you a better leader? Joel Zeff thinks so—and he's got the stories (and laughs) to prove it. In this episode of The People Dividend podcast, host Mike Horne sits down with Joel Zeff—keynote speaker, humorist, and author—to explore how joy, humor, and improvisation can transform your leadership style and elevate workplace culture. Drawing on years of experience working with teams across industries, Joel shares how improv principles help leaders embrace change, stay engaged, and lead with empathy and resilience. He emphasizes that creating a positive workplace starts with supporting your team, asking what they need to succeed, and fueling their passion through appreciation. This episode is packed with laughs, leadership wisdom, and actionable tips for improving team engagement, communication, and culture—no matter your industry or leadership level.   Key Points: Improv is a powerful leadership tool that teaches adaptability, collaboration, and presence in the moment. Positive support and appreciation are critical to building high-performing, passionate teams. Great leaders ask, "What do you need to succeed?"—and then actively support their team's success. Links:  Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Joel Zeff LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joelzeff   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiOqpNYF4qZZoYByIlLGuog   Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394278954   https://www.joelzeff.com

What if midlife isn't a crisis, but a powerful opportunity to give back, grow, and lead the next generation? In this episode of The People Dividend podcast, host Mike Horne welcomes Dr. Deborah Heiser, applied developmental psychologist and founder of The Mentor Project, to explore the powerful role of mentorship in the workplace and the concept of generativity in midlife. Dr. Heiser challenges outdated views of aging by framing midlife as a time of leadership, contribution, and fulfillment. She explains how organizations can tap into the value of midlife employees by supporting their desire to give back through mentorship. The episode explores the importance of organic, meaningful connections between mentors and mentees—and how HR leaders can create environments that nurture employee development, positive aging, and purpose at work. Whether you're an executive, HR professional, or mid-career leader, this episode offers actionable insights on mentorship, retention, and workplace wellbeing.   Key Points:   Generativity is a natural and powerful stage in midlife where people seek to give back to others and find deeper meaning. Mentorship thrives when driven by intrinsic motivation and genuine connection—not just formal structure. Coaching and mentoring serve different purposes but are both essential tools for personal and professional development.   Links:    Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Deborah Heiser http://www.mentorproject.org/, https://deborahheiser.com/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-heiser-phd/  

"There's nothing more important if you're looking to grow and scale than making sure you get the right people." Jen Hahn   In this episode of The People Dividend, host Mike Horne sits down with Jen Hahn, founder and CEO of J Recruiting Services, to explore what it takes to create meaningful connections between talent and opportunity.   Jen shares her expertise on strategic hiring practices, the power of generalist experience, and the evolving landscape of talent acquisition. The discussion highlights how companies can scale effectively by improving their recruitment strategy, investing in workplace culture, and putting employee retention at the center of their growth plan. With actionable insights on proactive hiring, streamlined recruitment processes, and leadership's impact on retention, this episode is essential listening for business leaders, HR professionals, and founders looking to grow the right way. Key Points: Strategic scaling starts with proactive hiring that anticipates future needs, not just current roles. Streamlining the recruitment process boosts hiring efficiency and improves candidate experience. Employee retention is directly shaped by leadership quality, culture, and how people are treated. Links:  Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Jenn Hahn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-hahn-5698b66a/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/jrecruitingservices https://www.facebook.com/JRecruitingServices https://jrecruitingservices.com/