Working Forward

Ever been stuck in a “meh” moment, unsure if it’s a yes or a no? 😬 Nikki and Jason dive into a fun, fired-up convo about making bold, aligned decisions, personally and professionally. From saying no without guilt to spotting red flags in client partnerships and making hiring choices that truly light up your team, they cover it all. Nikki also shares powerful takeaways from Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” philosophy and the Why.OS framework that keeps the PFN team living and leading with radical intentionality. Tune in if you’re ready to lead, live, and love like every decision is a full-body “Hell Yes!” 💥   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Know your why to guide clear decisions. Energy alignment outweighs obligation every time. Misaligned clients drain culture and results. Right person, right seat is essential. Intentionality drives meaningful culture and impact.  

In this episode, Jason Cochran interviews Bob Dalton, a tech founder and community expert, discussing the intersection of technology and community. Bob shares his journey from starting a blanket company to addressing homelessness and emphasizes the importance of localism and community in a tech-driven world. They explore the impact of technology on human connection, the need for community in workplaces, and the future of community-building in the face of AI advancements. Bob advocates for authentic connections and the necessity of community for survival in today's society. Additional Resources: Follow Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobxdalton/ Join the PFN Community! Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Bob Dalton's journey began with a personal experience that led him to address homelessness. Localism is crucial for societal change and should be prioritized over nationalism and individualism. Technology has created a divide, leading to isolation and addiction to digital platforms. Community is essential for mental health and combating addiction in a tech-driven society. Building authentic connections is vital for personal and professional growth.  

What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn’t coming for your job, it’s coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. F rom using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they’re showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center 💡   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: AI is a co-pilot. Use it to enhance, not replace, human work. Start small. Experiment with everyday tasks before scaling. Input matters. Better prompts lead to better, more authentic outputs. Culture comes first. Align AI use with your company’s values. Free up time. Let AI handle the mundane so people can focus on meaningful work.  

In this episode of Working Forward, Amy Bayer shares her personal journey through burnout, career reinvention, and the slow, intentional process of rediscovering purpose. From leading global employer brand initiatives to stepping away in search of alignment, Amy offers a vulnerable look at what it means to listen to your body, trust your instincts, and let go of what no longer serves you. She and Brent discuss how strengths like Empathy and Connectedness guided her path, the power of sabbaticals, and the questions that helped her begin again — on her terms.   Additional Resources: Connect with Amy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-bayer-812ba8104/ Join the PFN Community: https://community.peopleforwardnetwork.com/sign_up?request_host=community.peopleforwardnetwork.com&user%5Binvitation_token%5D=43bbc5f192b8ac515b0c44bdfac7951d8cc7fc72-4b4aa546-ba57-4904-b9fb-2ced53e9af12#email Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Jason.Cochran Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: - Burnout often begins when we ignore our body’s quiet signals in pursuit of productivity. - Sabbaticals aren’t escapes — they’re opportunities to reflect, heal, and realign. - Letting go of identity tied to work is one of the hardest and most liberating parts of growth. - Strengths like Empathy and Connectedness can serve as both compass and anchor in transition. - Working forward means redefining success on your own terms — slowly, intentionally, and honestly.

What if your team could get more done in less time? ⏳ In this Community Conversation, Nikki and Jason flip the traditional “hours worked” mindset on its head, championing the power of results over clock-watching. They share why it’s time to ditch the outdated 9–5 mentality, how to unlearn habits that hold us back, and why role clarity + goals + KPIs are the secret trio for driving real impact. 🚀 From experimenting with a four-day work week to harnessing AI for smarter workflows, this episode is packed with practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and a few personal stories that’ll make you rethink your relationship with time. Whether you’re a leader or a team member, you’ll walk away ready to work sharper, not harder, and maybe even earn yourself that extra day off.   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Measure success by results, not hours worked. Use role clarity, goals, and KPIs to guide focus. Unlearn outdated time-based work habits. Leverage AI to boost efficiency and flexibility. Cut low-value tasks to create space for impact.

In this episode, Greg Verdino joins Jason Cochran to explore what it really means to lead through AI disruption — without losing the human heartbeat of your business. From fear to future-forward thinking, they dive into what leaders often get wrong about automation, and how to focus on what humans do best. Greg shares insights on empathy in the age of AI, the importance of adaptability, and how to create cultures that thrive with change, not in spite of it. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, rethinking your role, or trying to lead a team through transformation, this episode is both a caution and a call to rise. Additional Resources: Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregverdino/ Join the PFN Community: https://community.peopleforwardnetwork.com/sign_up?request_host=community.peopleforwardnetwork.com&user[invitation_token]=43bbc5f192b8ac515b0c44bdfac7951d8cc7fc72-4b4aa546-ba57-4904-b9fb-2ced53e9af12#email Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: AI won’t replace leaders — but leaders who ignore it might replace themselves. The real threat isn’t the tech itself, but how disconnected we become from the human experience. Adaptability is no longer optional — it’s the defining trait of future-ready organizations. The most successful leaders will blend curiosity, empathy, and clarity in times of disruption. Automation should elevate humanity, not erase it — that starts with culture, not code.

What if the secret to staying focused, aligned, and genuinely excited about your goals wasn’t a 20-page annual plan, but a simple monthly sprint? Nikki and Jason pull back the curtain on how PeopleForward Network uses OKRs and monthly sprint goals to spark team momentum. 📈 They demystify what OKRs really are, how sprint goals drive alignment and energy, and why failing fast can actually fuel success. Packed with real-life examples and people-first leadership insights, this episode delivers practical tips and a dose of workplace magic. 💡 Whether you're leading a team or just trying to keep the main thing the main thing, this episode is your playbook for unlocking strategic progress—one sprint at a time. 🏃‍♀️   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: OKRs bring focus and clarity to what really matters. Monthly sprints keep goals agile and actionable. Team alignment grows with regular goal check-ins. A safe, feedback-rich culture powers real progress. Agility isn't optional—it's a must for modern teams.

In this episode, KL Shaw joins Jason Cochran to break down what it really means to own your career journey — especially in today’s uncertain job market. From layoffs to layoffs to leaps of faith, they explore how to shift from fear into action. KL shares powerful coaching insights on getting clear about your purpose, making your impact visible, and building authentic relationships that open real doors — not just resumes. Whether you’re navigating change, burnout, or dreaming about something new, this conversation is your roadmap. Additional Resources: Connect with KL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keri-lynne-shaw/ https://thesalarybump.com/ Join the PFN Community! Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Take control of your career by stepping into the driver’s seat and leading your own path. Gain clarity by identifying what you love, what you’re great at, and how you want to make an impact. Keep an ongoing impact list to track your accomplishments and showcase your value. Focus on networking, as most job opportunities come through relationships — not online applications. Craft and practice a concise, compelling 90-second story about who you are and what you bring.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with Michael Morgan and Scott Himes from Medallion Partners to explore the evolving landscape of executive search and talent acquisition. They discuss the significant uncertainties and changes in the industry, the critical importance of succession planning, and the impact of AI on the workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to new realities, make wise decisions in talent acquisition, and the importance of change management in navigating these challenges. Additional Resources: https://medallionpartnersinc.com/contact-medallion/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-morgan-career/ Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotthimes/ Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Uncertainty is a prevailing theme in executive hiring today. The pace of change in the industry is faster than ever. Organizations face a talent crisis due to retiring leaders. Succession planning is often neglected, leading to risks. Cultural fit is essential for new hires to drive change.

Live from the PeopleForward Network Community, Jason sits down with Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer—aka the workplace wellbeing docs 👩‍⚕️👩‍⚕️—to talk about their new book “Leading for Wellness.” Why are employees feeling worse despite all the wellness perks? What does real support look like? And how can leaders stop burnout before it starts? This convo is packed with research, laughs, and “aha” moments on leading people-first. Let’s get well, together. 🌱   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn Connect with Katina on LinkedIn Learn more about Workr Beeing Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Wellness programs alone don’t improve employee wellbeing—leadership behaviors do. Authenticity and vulnerability from leaders foster trust and openness on teams. Leaders must proactively prioritize and manage team workload to prevent burnout. Understanding employee individuality is crucial—wellness is not one-size-fits-all. AI has the potential to help or harm wellbeing, depending on how it’s integrated.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Josh Drean explore the rapidly changing landscape of work, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and its implications for employment. They discuss the uncertainty surrounding AI's capabilities, the importance of human connection in the workplace, and the need for a new employment model that prioritizes meaningful work. The conversation highlights the ethical considerations of AI integration, the challenges faced by HR, and the necessity for strategic implementation of AI tools to enhance productivity without sacrificing employee experience. In this conversation, Josh Drean and Jason Cochran explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on the needs and expectations of the modern workforce. Additional Resources: Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshdrean/ Check out Josh’s book: https://work3.me/book/ Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: The pace of change in the world feels overwhelming. Disengaging from news and technology may not be a solution. AI's development is still shrouded in mystery, even for experts. Honesty and transparency from tech leaders are refreshing. The future of work may involve more meaningful, mission-based roles.

In this episode, Nikki and Jason dive into a hot topic: how do you keep that human touch while embracing the rise of automation and AI 🤖? They get real about what should be automated (hello, scheduling) and what should never lose the personal touch (like conflict resolution or celebrating your people). With practical insights, core values, and a whole lot of heart, this convo will leave you rethinking how to scale without losing soul 💡💬.   Additional Resources: Join the PFN Community! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Define what automation and high touch mean for your organization. Use your core values as guardrails—don’t automate what’s uniquely human. Automate for scale, but personalize for trust to preserve authenticity. Design systems that create space for connection, not remove it. AI transformation is human transformation—prioritize alignment and communication. Your culture code should drive how your team shows up with new tools.  

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Chris Kluver discuss the current state of the economy, the challenges faced by business leaders, and the impact of political decisions on economic stability. They explore the role of hope in leadership, the transformative effects of AI and automation on the workforce, and the importance of life-work integration in the evolving work landscape. The discussion emphasizes the need for strategic planning in addressing job displacement and the potential for AI to create a more equitable future. In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Kris Kluver explore the evolving role of AI in our lives, particularly its impact on critical thinking skills, productivity, and collaboration. Additional Resources: Connect with Kris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kriskluver/ Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: There's a lot of people out there who are freaking out about the economy. The extinction events we're going to see in businesses is going to be massive. With great disruption comes great opportunity. Hope is now the number one trait people look for in leadership. We need to have a plan for those who may be displaced by AI.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Gianna Driver explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on the challenges faced by HR leaders, the importance of work-life integration, and the rising significance of hope in leadership. They discuss the impact of AI on employment and the necessity for collaboration between humans and technology, emphasizing the need for workplaces to adapt to these changes while maintaining a human-centered approach. They also explore the implications of AI on critical thinking, productivity, and workplace culture. Additional Resources: Connect with Gianna on LinkedIn:: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianna-driver-6183391/ Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: HR leaders are tasked with overseeing employee well-being amidst rapid changes. Work-life integration is more relevant than ever in today's work environment. Hope has become a crucial trait sought in leadership, surpassing trust. AI is transforming the workplace, but it should be seen as a tool, not a replacement. Creating a future-ready workplace requires leaders to embrace AI and its potential.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran interviews Vince Freeman, the Chief AI Implementation Officer at HardingPorman. They discuss the evolving role of AI in organizations, the challenges of implementation, and the future of work as AI becomes more integrated into various industries. Vince shares insights on the importance of education and collaboration between HR and IT, the potential economic implications of AI, and the need for individuals to find meaning beyond their jobs in an AI-driven world. Additional Resources: Connect with Vince on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-freeman-55ba152/ Join survivingtheuprising.com Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: The role of Chief AI Implementation Officer is crucial for strategic AI integration. AI implementation requires a clear understanding of organizational needs. Education and training are essential for successful AI adoption. Trust between leadership and employees is vital during AI transitions. AI will create new job roles while displacing some existing ones.

In this episode, we dive into the power of asynchronous meetings—what they are, why they matter, and how they can revolutionize the way teams communicate. Join Jason Cochran and Nikki Lewallen Gregory as they break down the key strategies behind effective async collaboration. From reducing meeting fatigue to ensuring every team member has a voice, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Additional Resources: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilewallen/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Boosts productivity – Reduces unnecessary meetings and Zoom fatigue. Inclusive communication – Gives everyone a chance to contribute. Clear structure matters – Set expectations and deadlines. Right tools help – Use Slack, Google Docs, or project management apps. Future of work – Async collaboration is here to stay.

In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with futurists Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll to explore the evolving landscape of workplace communication. They discuss the profound impact of social media on communication dynamics, the rise of podcasting as a tool for corporate communication, and the implications of artificial intelligence in enhancing or complicating communication processes. The discussion highlights the challenges organizations face in adapting to new communication technologies and the potential of AI to improve feedback mechanisms and productivity, while also raising concerns about content quality in an era of easy content generation. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the challenges of podcasting, the role of AI in content creation, and its implications for accessibility and data analysis. They explore the impact of AI on jobs and the evolving landscape of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in the workplace, highlighting the political pressures surrounding it. The discussion also touches on the shifting language around DEI and the importance of focusing on outcomes rather than labels. The conversation concludes with insights into their podcasting journey and the significance of effective communication in today's world. Additional Resources: Connect with Steve On LinkedIn Connect with Craig On LinkedIn Listen to their podcast: Communication Breakdown Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Social media has fundamentally changed communication dynamics. The rise of influencers complicates trust in information. Workplace communication has shifted from top-down to more collaborative. Podcasting offers a flexible and engaging communication tool. AI can enhance productivity but also presents challenges.

Workplace Revolution is back and better than ever! Andrea Brummett is joined by Jason Cochran, new host of Working Forward, to talk about the evolving role of EQ in the workplace. Andrea breaks down the five key components of EQ—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—giving real-world insights into why these skills are essential in today's rapidly changing work environment. We also dive deep into conflict resolution, leadership development, and the impact of AI on human connection. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or team member, this episode will challenge you to rethink how emotional intelligence impacts collaboration, decision-making, and long-term success. Additional Resources: Connect with Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-brummett-6024501/ The Pabulum Group: https://pabulumgroup.com/ reddeHR: https://reddehr.com/ Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Self-awareness improves leadership and decision-making. Empathy builds trust and collaboration. Healthy conflict fuels growth. Intrinsic motivation drives success. EQ is a lifelong skill.

Joining me in this episode focused on the future of AI and HR are Enrique Rubio and Matt Burns. Enrique is an HR, Tech and Future of Work expert, keynote speaker and founder of global communities. Enrique is currently an advisor to the community he built, Hacking HR, a global learning community operating at the intersection of future of work, technology, business and organizations, with thousands of members of all over the world; and the Head of Global Community at Transform. Enrique is also ranked as one of the top 100 HR global influencers. Matt Burns is the Co-Founder & CEO of atlas copilot, the world’s first AI knowledge copilot for people leaders. Atlas Copilot's mission is to fundamentally transform the way HR professionals, teams and other people leaders do their work. And increases the value they can offer by empowering them with the latest in generative AI technology. And together, they’re now doing the "AI HR" podcast, presented by Hacking HR. Additional Resources: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Enrique's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rubioenrique/ Matt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattburnshr/ Check out their businesses: https://hackinghrlab.io/ https://www.atlascopilot.com/ Check out their podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hacking-hr/episodes/AI-in-HR-Podcast--Episode-001--Guest-Enrique-Rubio-e2rsfqb Key Takeaways: There's a lot of uncertainty in the market regarding AI. AI will affect all job sectors, not just blue-collar jobs. Every job is at risk due to AI advancements. AI does not need to be perfect to replace human jobs. The gig economy is likely to grow as job security diminishes.

In this bonus episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory joins Jason Cochran to explore the foundation of successful remote teams. Nikki shares why intentionality matters, what it truly looks like (spoiler: it’s more than just flexible schedules), and how leaders can build strong, connected cultures while boosting productivity. From work-life integration to game-changing rituals like asynchronous meetings, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at creating remote teams that thrive. Get ready for a crash course in leaving outdated systems behind and designing workplaces where people—and businesses—flourish. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insight! Additional Resources: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Thriving remote teams require intentional design and alignment with organizational goals. Flexible work promotes work-life integration, enhancing satisfaction and productivity. A strong culture code and clear values are essential for connected remote teams. Weekly rituals like priority sharing foster accountability and collaboration. Embracing asynchronous work allows teams to collaborate effectively without the constraints of real-time meetings.