HR Happy Hour Network

At Work in America, the longest running and top downloaded HR podcast, focuses on human resources, management, leadership, and workforce technology. The show is hosted by Steve Boese, the Co-Chair of the HR Technology Conference and Trish Steed, CEO of H3 HR Advisors.

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S1 · E7
Yesterday · 21 min
The Accidental Manager Trap (And How to Fix It)
The Accidental Manager Trap (And How to Fix It) Host: Sabrina Baker Summary What happens when your top individual contributor gets promoted to manager but receives zero training on how to actually manage people? In small and mid-sized businesses (1 to 500 employees), "accidental managers" are created every day. While these star performers have great intentions, placing them in management without guardrails creates massive legal, financial, and operational risks, from wage-and-hour violations to undocumented performance issues and mishandled medical disclosures. In this episode of The HR Connection, host Sabrina Baker breaks down the hidden costs of untrained managers, walks through real-world "wrong way vs. right way" scenarios, and shares a 3-step framework to sneak high-impact leadership development into your managers' daily routine without spending a dime. Topics include: Why high-performing employees aren’t automatically prepared to become effective people managers Three major risks created by untrained managers: wage and hour violations, documentation gaps, and mishandled accommodation or leave conversations How seemingly small manager decisions can create significant legal and financial exposure The difference between how trained and untrained managers respond to common workplace situations How to create a simple set of first-30-day manager compliance guardrails Why 15-minute tactical micro-training sessions can be more effective and realistic for small organizations than traditional leadership programs How consistent manager training can improve the way performance, employee concerns, and compliance issues are handled across the organizatio Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E26
Tuesday · 44 min
Workplace Movie Hall of Fame - America's Sweethearts 2026
Workplace Movie Hall of Fame - America's Sweethearts 2026 Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Summary In this episode of At Work in America, Steve and Trish return to Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders to unpack the workplace lessons found throughout Season 3. Following significant changes to DCC compensation, the conversation moves beyond whether these highly visible performers are being paid fairly and into deeper questions about the employee experience. Steve and Trish explore the tension between longtime leaders and a largely Gen Z workforce, the importance of meaningful feedback and recognition, and what happens when leaders listen to employee input without truly changing how they lead. They also examine the DCC selection process, the emotional weight of hiring and termination decisions, the role experienced employees play in supporting newer team members, and the “invisible work” that often holds teams together but goes unnoticed by leadership. Along the way, Steve and Trish don’t always agree - particularly when it comes to how much credit DCC leadership deserves for adapting. But their debate raises an important question for every organization: Is changing a process enough if the underlying leadership behaviors and culture haven’t changed with it? Topics include: Why listening to employees is only meaningful when leaders are willing to act on what they hear The growing expectations Gen Z employees have around feedback, recognition, connection, and leadership Can longtime leaders successfully adapt as workplace expectations change The danger of asking employees for input when the final decision consistently ignores their perspective What the DCC audition and selection process can teach employers about recruiting, evaluation, rejection, and candidate experience How peer leaders and experienced team members often perform critical coaching, encouragement, and culture-building work Why some of the most valuable contributions employees make may be invisible to traditional performance measures Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E8
August 21 · 35 min
Seeing the Future: Prediction Markets on the Rise With Gen Z
Seeing the Future: Prediction Markets on the Rise With Gen Z Hosts: Jack McFarlane and Nicholas Schlemmer Summary In this episode of The Play by Play, Jack and Nick break down the growing world of prediction markets and explore why platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have captured the attention of Gen Z. They discuss how these markets work, the appeal of their stock-market-like experience, and the combination of instant gratification, financial anxiety, and easy access that may be fueling their popularity. But with the excitement comes real financial risk. Jack and Nick dig into the potential downsides of speculative trading and gambling, including the danger of dipping into savings, chasing losses, and betting money that someone can't afford to lose. Their takeaway: if you're going to participate, understand the risk and keep it to money you can genuinely afford to lose. Then the guys lighten things up with the debut of the Play by Play Prediction Market — using imaginary coins instead of real money to make their picks for the upcoming college football season. From Ohio State and Michigan to Utah, BYU, LSU, Miami, Clemson, Indiana, and Georgia, Jack and Nick put their predictions on the record for conference champions, playoff contenders, and the national championship. It's part financial trends, part Gen Z perspective, part college football preview — and 100% Play by Play. Takeaways What prediction markets are and how they work The connection between Gen Z, financial anxiety, investing, and instant gratification The financial and behavioral risks associated with gambling and speculative trading Jack and Nick's approach to responsible betting The first-ever Play by Play Prediction Market College football conference and national championship predictions A football-themed final Quote of the Show Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E25
August 18 · 36 min
Are You Feeding AI the Wrong Data? The Leadership Signals You're Missing
Are You Feeding AI the Wrong Data? The Leadership Signals You're Missing Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Tom Libretto, President at Workhuman Summary AI is only as powerful as the data behind it. As organizations race to deploy new AI tools, they may be overlooking one of the richest sources of workforce intelligence already available to them: the everyday moments that reveal how work actually gets done. In this HR Happy Hour episode, Steve and Trish welcome Tom Libretto, President of Workhuman, to explore why traditional HR data often tells only part of the story, and how recognition data can provide a more human, contextual view of skills, collaboration, influence, leadership potential, and organizational impact. Tom explains the value of zero-party data: information employees voluntarily share in their own words about the contributions they see happening around them. When recognition is specific and meaningful, those messages can become a powerful source of intelligence about the workforce—capturing signals that transactional HR systems were never designed to see. The conversation also explores how AI can turn those signals into actionable workforce insights. Tom shares how Workhuman is using recognition data to identify potential future leaders years before promotion, surface “talent magnets” who consistently develop others, and help organizations better understand whether employees' work is actually aligned with strategic business priorities. Topics include: Why organizations need to think as carefully about what they feed AI as they do about the AI technology itself The limitations of transactional and declarative HR data What zero-party data is and why recognition can provide an unusually rich source of human intelligence How recognition reveals skills in action, collaboration patterns, influence, values, and contribution Why the quality and specificity of recognition messages matter when using the data with AI How AI and recognition data can help identify future leaders years earlier than traditional succession planning What HR leaders should consider as they build a richer, more trustworthy data foundation for AI-powered workforce decisions Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E24
August 11 · 40 min
Workplace Connection: What Drives Motivation, Retention, and Performance
Workplace Connection: What Drives Motivation, Retention, and Performance Host: Steve Boese Guest: Jason Lauritsen, Workplace strategist, Executive advisor, Keynote speaker, and co-author of the Human Connection Study Summary In this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese speaks with workplace strategist, advisor, and keynote speaker Jason Lauritsen about the Human Connection Study, a large-scale research project examining how connection shapes the employee experience. The study includes responses from more than 286,000 employees across nearly 1,700 organizations, providing a deeper look at what connection is, how employees experience it, and why it matters to organizational success. Jason explains why workplace connection extends beyond relationships with managers and colleagues. Employees also need to feel that their work matters and that they understand and believe in the purpose and direction of their organization. The conversation explores the study’s most surprising findings, including why connection to organizational purpose may be even more influential than having strong workplace relationships—and what HR and business leaders can do to create the conditions where connection can flourish. Topics include: Why connection should be viewed as a driver of performance rather than simply a cultural benefit The difference between relational connection and resonance connection The four primary dimensions of workplace connection Why organizational purpose and direction have such a powerful influence on employees How connection affects motivation, retention, inclusion, and advocacy How managers can create moments where employees feel seen, heard, and understood Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E12
August 7 · 38 min
How Culture Can Make or Break AI Adoption
How Culture Can Make or Break AI Adoption Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Nick Holmes, VP of Learning and Culture, and Founder of Culture Nova Summary In this episode of HR Means Business, Mervyn Dinnen speaks with Nick Holmes, organizational culture researcher, VP of Learning and Culture, and founder of Culture Nova. Nick is currently completing a PhD focused on developing a clearer, more relevant definition and measurement of organizational culture. Together, they challenge the common question, “What will AI do to our culture?” Instead, Nick argues that leaders should ask, “What kind of culture do we need for AI to work?” The conversation explores why organizations often confuse familiarity with genuine understanding, how AI can expose existing weaknesses in trust and psychological safety, and why successful adoption requires far more than introducing new tools. It requires leaders to rethink how information flows, how people learn, how change is communicated, and how work itself is designed. Key Takeaways How an organization’s existing culture shapes AI adoption Why AI often amplifies cultural strengths and weaknesses What an AI-ready organizational culture looks like Why leaders must model responsible and thoughtful AI use How AI can increase workload rather than reduce it The relationship between AI adoption and psychological safety Why frontline and location-based workers must be included in the AI conversation Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E23
August 4 · 12 min
Moments That Matter and Shape Employee Trust: Lessons from SHRM 2026
Moments That Matter and Shape Employee Trust: Lessons from SHRM 2026 Host: Steve Boese Guests: Tom Fischer, Marketing Leader Brian Elfrink, Product Leader Troy Hupp, Product Leader for Employee Verifications Erin Derby, Sr. Director, Partners and Alliances Summary In this special episode of the HR Happy Hour recorded live at SHRM 2026, Steve Boese brings together insights from four conversations with leaders from Experian Employer Services to explore how compliance, HR technology, and connected systems influence the moments employees remember most. From onboarding and employment verification to workforce compliance and HR technology ecosystems, this episode examines how organizations can reduce friction, build trust, and create better employee experiences during life's biggest moments. Whether an employee is starting a new job, buying a home, relocating, or navigating changing regulations, the systems supporting those experiences matter more than ever. Topics include: Why compliance has become an essential part of the employee experience How employment verification impacts major life events like home purchases and government benefits The growing importance of connected HR technology ecosystems Why automation should enhance—not replace—human service How organizations can balance innovation, compliance, and employee trust Practical advice for evaluating HR technology partners Why the "back office" increasingly defines the employee experience Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Nearly 9 in 10 HR leaders say they don't have a strong leadership bench. Workhuman's Future Leaders gives organizations a smarter way to build one. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence solution to identify high-potential VP+ talent already within your workforce—up to four years before promotion. Using proprietary AI and real-time recognition data, it uncovers the leadership signals hidden in everyday work long before traditional succession planning can. It's a smarter, data-driven approach to building tomorrow's leaders. Learn more at Workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S1 · E9
July 28 · 40 min
How Leaders Can Build AI-Native Organizations
How Leaders Can Build AI-Native Organizations Host: Steve Boese Guests: Brian Solis, Head of Global Innovation - Dave Wright, Chief Innovation Officer, ServiceNow Summary On this episode of System of Record, Steve Boese is joined by Dave Wright and Brian Solis, co-authors of Infinite: How Leaders Transform Businesses with AI, for a conversation about what it really takes to become an AI-native organization. Rather than focusing on AI tools alone, they explore why successful transformation requires organizations to rethink leadership, redesign workflows, and build cultures that can continuously adapt. The discussion challenges leaders to move beyond using AI solely for efficiency and begin leveraging it to create entirely new ways of working. From organizational design to workflow orchestration, the episode offers practical insights into what separates companies that simply adopt AI from those that use it to reinvent their business. Whether you're leading HR, IT, operations, or enterprise strategy, this conversation provides a thoughtful framework for preparing your organization for the next era of work. Topics include: Why AI represents a fundamentally different transformation than previous technology waves. What it means to build an "infinite company" designed for continuous adaptation. How leadership must evolve to support AI-driven organizations. Why workflow design is becoming one of the most important competitive advantages. The difference between using AI for operational efficiency and using it to drive innovation. How organizational culture, trust, and curiosity influence successful AI adoption. Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S1 · E6
July 24 · 31 min
Leadership Development, No Budget Required
Leadership Development, No Budget Required Host: Sabrina Baker Summary Small businesses run on homegrown leaders, high performers promoted into management with zero support for the completely different skill set that role actually requires. Sabrina argues that leadership development is already happening in every organization, whether intentional or not, because new leaders learn by watching everyone above them. If those role models are bad, the org just keeps reproducing the same gaps. With no budget for formal programs, she walks through ways to build leadership development into work that's already happening: asking questions instead of handing managers answers, using real business misses as leadership case studies in team meetings, running one-on-ones that surface what managers actually need, pulling engagement survey data to make the case for support, and running informal lunch-and-learns during meetings that already exist. None of it requires CEO sign-off or a line item just intention about turning everyday moments into development. Key Topics Promoting from within can enhance morale and engagement. Onboarding programs are crucial for small businesses. Leadership development can happen informally through daily interactions. Assuming individual contributors will be great leaders is a mistake. Real business problems can be used as learning opportunities. Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E22
July 21 · 35 min
AI and the Next Evolution of Performance Management
AI and the Next Evolution of Performance Management Host: Steve Boese Guest: Bryan Hancock, Partner at McKinsey & Company Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese sits down with Bryan Hancock, Partner at McKinsey & Company, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of human resources. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for people, Bryan explains how organizations can use it to strengthen the human side of work - from improving performance management and coaching to creating more meaningful employee experiences. The conversation explores where AI can reduce administrative burden, provide better insights for managers, and help employees grow while maintaining trust and transparency. Steve and Bryan also discuss one of the biggest challenges organizations face today: balancing personalized employee experiences with concerns around privacy, surveillance, and ethical AI use. As companies continue investing in AI-powered HR technology, leaders must ensure these tools enhance relationships instead of replacing them. Whether you're an HR leader, people manager, or executive preparing your organization for the future of work, this episode offers practical insights into using AI responsibly while keeping people at the center of every decision. Topics include: How AI is changing day-to-day HR operations Ways AI can support better coaching and manager effectiveness How organizations can build trust while introducing AI-powered tools The importance of balancing personalization with employee privacy Why successful AI adoption depends as much on culture as technology What HR leaders should be preparing for as AI capabilities continue to evolve Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E11
July 17 · 37 min
How AI and Assumptions are Shaping Hiring in 2026
How AI and Assumptions are Shaping Hiring in 2026 Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Ken Ward, Talent Acquisition Leader Summary On this episode of HR Means Business, Mervyn is joined by talent acquisition leader Ken Ward to explore what today's hiring market looks like from the perspective of an experienced executive candidate. Drawing on more than 30 years in talent acquisition, Ken shares what he's learned while navigating his own career transition, including how AI is changing recruitment, why judgment still matters more than technology, and how senior professionals can rethink visibility, networking, and career positioning. He also discusses how studying counseling has changed the way he approaches leadership, decision-making, and professional resilience. The conversation offers a thoughtful look at hiring from both sides of the table and challenges many of the assumptions surrounding AI, executive recruiting, and the future of talent acquisition. Key Takeaways Why senior talent acquisition professionals face unique challenges in today's hiring market How AI is influencing recruiting—and where human judgment remains essential The changing role of LinkedIn, personal branding, and professional visibility Why hiring decisions should prioritize curiosity and critical thinking over certainty How counseling skills can strengthen leadership, recruiting, and career resilience Practical advice for experienced professionals navigating career transitions Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E21
July 14 · 28 min
Rebuilding Workplace Connection in the Age of AI and Hybrid Work
Rebuilding Workplace Connection in the Age of AI and Hybrid Work Host: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: David Goldstein, Founder of TeamBonding Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese is joined by David Goldstein, Founder of TeamBonding and author of Beyond Trust Falls: The Definitive Guide to Building Teams That Click, to explore how team building has evolved beyond traditional activities into meaningful experiences that strengthen workplace culture. David shares how intentional team experiences can create psychological safety, uncover hidden talents, and help employees build stronger relationships across roles, generations, and work environments. They discuss why play, curiosity, and even failure are essential parts of innovation and how shared experiences can improve trust, communication, and collaboration. The conversation also explores the growing need for human connection in an increasingly digital and AI-driven workplace, the impact of charitable team experiences, and why investing in relationships is a critical part of building teams where people can do their best work. Topics include: Moving beyond outdated team-building stereotypes Creating safe environments where employees can contribute and take risks The role of play in creativity, innovation, and problem-solving Building connection across hybrid teams and multiple generations Why meaningful experiences create lasting workplace impact The importance of belonging and human connection in the future of work Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E7
July 10 · 29 min
Why Gen Z is Rethinking Careers: The Rise of Skilled Trades
Why Gen Z is Rethinking Careers: The Rise of Skilled Trades Hosts: Jack McFarlane and Nicholas Schlemmer Guest: Jake Adams, Journeyman Carpenter Summary In this episode of The Play by Play Podcast, Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer revisit the world of blue-collar work with returning guest Jake Adams, a journeyman carpenter who first joined the show at the beginning of his career journey. The conversation explores why Gen Z is rethinking traditional career paths, the growing interest in skilled trades, and how technology and AI are impacting hands-on work. Jake shares his experience moving from apprentice to journeyman, what he has learned along the way, and how mentorship, work ethic, and new opportunities are shaping the future of blue-collar careers. Takeaways Why skilled trades are becoming a more attractive career option for younger generations How AI and technology are influencing construction and trade industries The value of apprenticeships, hands-on learning, and career exploration How mentorship and reverse mentorship are changing workplace dynamics Why career growth does not always follow a traditional four-year college path Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E20
July 7 · 44 min
Leadership in the AI Era: How Great Managers Create Clarity Through Change
Leadership in the AI Era: How Great Managers Create Clarity Through Change Host: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Ben Brooks, Founder & CEO at PILOT Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese and Trish Steed welcome leadership expert and Pilot founder Ben Brooks for a timely conversation on leading through uncertainty. As AI, economic shifts, and rapid workplace change continue to reshape organizations, they explore why clarity, decisive leadership, and strong workplace culture have become competitive advantages. The discussion also covers psychological safety, meaningful feedback, and practical strategies for helping teams stay aligned, adaptable, and ready for what's next. Takeaways Clear communication and explicit expectations foster trust and performance. Leadership involves making tough decisions thoughtfully and ethically. Organizations benefit from defining shared ways of working and culture. Feedback readiness is crucial for growth and development. Leaders should focus on strengths and prioritize what matters most. Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E10
July 1 · 40 min
Building a Culture of Innovation: What Leaders Get Wrong
Building a Culture of Innovation: What Leaders Get Wrong Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Cris Beswick - Leadership, culture, and innovation expert Summary On this episode of HR Means Business, Mervyn is joined by leadership, culture, and innovation expert Chris Beswick to challenge one of business's most misunderstood concepts: innovation. Together, they explore why innovation shouldn't be treated as a department, initiative, or brainstorming exercise, but as the outcome of a culture intentionally designed to encourage curiosity, collaboration, and calculated risk. Chris explains why so many innovation programs fail—not because organizations lack ideas, but because they focus on tools and processes without changing the leadership behaviors and cultural conditions that allow innovation to thrive. The conversation also examines the critical role of middle managers, psychological safety, and why leadership must move beyond simply sponsoring innovation to truly owning it. The discussion also tackles one of today's biggest leadership questions: where AI fits into innovation. Rather than replacing human creativity, Chris argues that organizations will see the greatest success by using AI to remove administrative work while allowing people to focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and creating value. Key Takeaways Why innovation is an outcome—not a strategy or department. The leadership and cultural conditions that make innovation possible. Why middle managers are often the most overlooked drivers of organizational change. How psychological safety enables better ideas and smarter risk-taking. Why many innovation initiatives fail to deliver ROI. How AI should complement—not replace—human creativity and leadership. Practical first steps leaders can take to build a culture that supports innovation. Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S1 · E5
June 26 · 32 min
HR Keeps Inheriting Everyone Else’s Problems
HR Keeps Inheriting Everyone Else’s Problems Host: Sabrina Baker Summary If no one owns it, HR gets it. That's not a bandwidth problem, it's an ownership boundary problem. And they require completely different solutions. In this episode, Sabrina Baker breaks down why unowned work keeps landing on HR's plate and how HR's own greatest strength — operating in ambiguity — works against them. The more capable and willing you are to step in, the more the organization learns to route things your direction. Involvement and ownership are not the same thing. One of the most strategic things HR can do is understand the difference. She shares three moves for stopping the pattern that you can start doing today. The sentence to hold onto: every problem HR solves without clarifying ownership becomes HR's problem to solve again later. Key Topics Ownership boundaries in HR Delegation and offloading tasks Distinction between involvement and ownership Strategies to clarify responsibilities Impact of ambiguity on HR workload Building organizational accountability Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Every year, companies spin their wheels searching externally for senior leaders. Meanwhile, their next VP is already on their payroll. Recognized by peers, but overlooked on the org chart. Future Leaders™ by Workhuman fixes that. Using AI and real-time recognition data, Future Leaders identifies your highest-potential talent four years ahead of schedule — before they burn out, check out, or get picked up by someone who saw what you missed. Build smarter. Promote confidently. Keep your best people. Future Leaders. Only from Workhuman. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E19
June 23 · 31 min
Why AI Transformation Requires a New People Strategy
Why AI Transformation Requires a New People Strategy Host: Steve Boese Guest: Ravin Jesuthasan, Global Transformation Leader & Partner at Mercer Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese is joined by Ravin Jesuthasan to discuss why successful AI transformation requires more than simply deploying new technology. Drawing from Mercer’s Global Talent Trends 2026 research, Ravin explains how leading organizations are redesigning work, evolving HR’s role, and focusing on skills to unlock the full value of AI. The conversation also explores employee wellbeing, workforce readiness, and the choices leaders must make to balance productivity, growth, and human impact in an increasingly intelligent workplace. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Transformation in Work 03:00 The Role of Technology in Work Redesign 05:54 Evolving HR's Role in Organizations 08:49 The Impact of AI on Workforce Dynamics 12:05 Understanding Employee Thriving in the Workplace 14:50 Navigating Skills and Workplace Development 18:01 The Choices Organizations Face with AI 21:06 Future Outlook on Work and AI Integration Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Every year, companies spin their wheels searching externally for senior leaders. Meanwhile, their next VP is already on their payroll. Recognized by peers, but overlooked on the org chart. Future Leaders™ by Workhuman fixes that. Using AI and real-time recognition data, Future Leaders identifies your highest-potential talent four years ahead of schedule — before they burn out, check out, or get picked up by someone who saw what you missed. Build smarter. Promote confidently. Keep your best people. Future Leaders. Only from Workhuman. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E18
June 16 · 35 min
The Executive Athlete Mindset: Why Recovery Drives Better Performance
The Executive Athlete Mindset: Why Recovery Drives Better Performance Host: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Nicole Elizabeth Ward, AON Executive Leader & Performance Strategist Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese and Trish Steed are joined by author, executive leader, and performance strategist Nicole Elizabeth Ward to explore why sustainable performance requires more than hard work and long hours. Drawing from her book Biohacking for the Sales Athlete, Nicole shares the personal wake-up call that transformed her approach to health, leadership, and success. The conversation challenges the workplace culture that rewards exhaustion and constant availability, offering a new perspective on performance through the lens of recovery, sleep, movement, nutrition, and physiological well-being. Together, they discuss why leaders should think of themselves as athletes, how stress impacts communication and decision-making, and practical ways individuals can improve performance without sacrificing their health. This episode offers actionable insights for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone looking to perform at their best while building a more sustainable relationship with work. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Executive Athlete Mindset 03:30 A Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything 07:51 Why Corporate Culture Rewards Burnout 11:39 Sleep, Recovery, and Sustainable Performance 20:28 Taking Control of Your Wellbeing at Work 24:12 Rethinking Workplace Performance and Rewards 28:36 The Leadership Impact of Physiological Health 31:30 Practical Biohacking Strategies for Everyday Success Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Every year, companies spin their wheels searching externally for senior leaders. Meanwhile, their next VP is already on their payroll. Recognized by peers, but overlooked on the org chart. Future Leaders™ by Workhuman fixes that. Using AI and real-time recognition data, Future Leaders identifies your highest-potential talent four years ahead of schedule — before they burn out, check out, or get picked up by someone who saw what you missed. Build smarter. Promote confidently. Keep your best people. Future Leaders. Only from Workhuman. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S4 · E20
June 12 · 38 min
The World Cup of Business
The World Cup of Business Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer Summary Join this episode of The Play By Play, where hosts Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer walk through an engaging and humorous simulation of the World Cup of Business, where major tech companies compete in a virtual tournament filled with strategic moves, AI-powered tactics, and industry insights. Discover how innovation, branding, and technology determine the ultimate champion in this lively, unpredictable event. Listen in! Chapters 00:00 World Cup Excitement and Overview 03:05 Game Simulation Begins 12:24 Match Highlights and Analysis 18:54 Final Match and Tournament Wrap-Up 21:43 Semi-Final Round 30:20 The Final Showdown 35:08 Conclusion and Reflections on the Tournament Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Every year, companies spin their wheels searching externally for senior leaders. Meanwhile, their next VP is already on their payroll. Recognized by peers, but overlooked on the org chart. Future Leaders™ by Workhuman fixes that. Using AI and real-time recognition data, Future Leaders identifies your highest-potential talent four years ahead of schedule — before they burn out, check out, or get picked up by someone who saw what you missed. Build smarter. Promote confidently. Keep your best people. Future Leaders. Only from Workhuman. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.
S18 · E17
June 9 · 42 min
Workplace Movie Hall of Fame - Devil Wears Prada 2
Workplace Movie Hall of Fame - Devil Wears Prada 2 Host: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Summary On this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese and Trish Steed are back with another workplace movie hall of fame episode! They explore the themes of the new 'Devil Wears Prada 2' movie, its reflection on the modern workplace, AI's impact, and gender dynamics in leadership. This is a thought-provoking analysis of how characters evolve and what it reveals about work culture today. Listen in! Chapters 00:00 Home Again: Reflecting on Travel and Change 02:48 Workplace Dynamics: A Movie Review 05:49 Character Development Over Time 09:05 Leadership and Growth 12:00 AI in the Workplace 14:46 Gender Roles at Work and How They Evolve 17:43 The Role of Movies in Work Conversations 20:49 Lessons Learned from the Movie Thank you for joining the show today! Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. Every year, companies spin their wheels searching externally for senior leaders. Meanwhile, their next VP is already on their payroll. Recognized by peers, but overlooked on the org chart. Future Leaders™ by Workhuman fixes that. Using AI and real-time recognition data, Future Leaders identifies your highest-potential talent four years ahead of schedule — before they burn out, check out, or get picked up by someone who saw what you missed. Build smarter. Promote confidently. Keep your best people. Future Leaders. Only from Workhuman. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.

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