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Transformation Horizon

Judy Oyedele & Sasha Farley

Exploring how Organization Development principles help leaders build workplaces where both people and organizations thrive. From in-depth practitioner interviews to real-time leadership Q&A, we tackle the challenges of creating human-centered organizations.

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23 episodes
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Avg 45 min
English

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S4 · E8
Thursday · 45 min
Three Months In and Still Lost: Why Onboarding Takes a Year
You were excited when you started. Now you're three months in, still unclear on how things work, and wondering if you made a mistake taking the job. What's going on, and what can organizations do about it? Judy shares her own college internship at a nonprofit, where she got a desk and a handbook and resigned two weeks later because no one ever told her what she was there to do. Sasha explains that new hires need clarity on both what to do and how to do it, and most organizations miss one or the other. She breaks down why things seem to fall apart at three months: when the "we do things differently here" story from the interview stops matching the day-to-day. The key insight: Organizations that keep people engaged build feedback loops in month one, show people how their work connects to the mission, and track PERMA conditions: Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Achievement. And if you're the new hire and not seeing any of this, Judy offers questions to ask about how feedback and decisions work where you are. Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners!
S4 · E7
October 5 · 45 min
Why Your Team Isn't Using the AI Tools You Rolled Out
You rolled out the AI tools, ran the trainings, and explained the benefits, but people still aren't really using them. So why isn't adoption happening, and what are you missing? Judy introduces the core reframe: adoption isn't the outcome you care about, behavior change is, so the real question is whether the work is actually being done differently or better. Sasha explains why this isn't a training problem. People don't trust that the tools won't be used to replace or surveil them, and under stress, the brain stops weighing goals and reverts to familiar habits, which is why even executives who want to use AI keep reaching for Post-It notes. The key insight: AI adoption isn't a tool rollout; it's a change in how work gets done, and people adopt it when they understand their new role, trust that you care about them, and learn together rather than alone. Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E7
August 28 · 55 min
Toxic Chemical Exposure - Changing Complex Systems
How do you bring together a global network of stakeholders in electronics production to make an impact on worker safety? In this re-release of an episode from Season 1, we interview Russ Gaskin of CoCreative Consulting about the Clean Electronics Production Network, an initiative that unites diverse stakeholders to understand, address, and eliminate workers' exposure to toxic chemicals in the electronics supply chain. We talk about leveraging feelings of overwhelm, how bringing diverse perspectives together to solve huge problems is an imperative rather than a luxury, the power of throwing a better party and letting people experience it, and getting in the right relationship with fear. Check out the Green America Center for Sustainability Solutions to learn more about other projects focused on multi-stakeholder collaboration such as the Soil Climate Alliance. Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E6
July 6 · 30 min
Leveling Up When You Can't Offer Certainty
You need to level up as a leader, focus on more strategic work, and you need your managers to step up with you. But the future is uncertain. You can't provide total clarity about what's coming or what this change will really mean day-to-day. So how do you navigate this transition without triggering resistance or panic? Sasha introduces the SCARF model to explain why our brains crave certainty so intensely, and why uncertainty triggers literal survival responses (fight, flight, freeze, or fawning). Judy connects this to her work on retention and organizational transitions, exploring how leaders can create clarity about what is changing, and what isn't, even when they genuinely don't know everything about the future. The key distinction: you don't need actual certainty to help people feel more certain. The insight: Creating perceived certainty through transparent communication and consistent practices can trigger reward pathways instead of threat responses, making transitions actually work. Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E5
May 28 · 27 min
Redefining 'Good' When Your Work Never Stops
When you're processing hundreds of cases or tasks with no end in sight, how do you find meaning and feel like what you're doing actually matters? This question came from a lawyer, but it could apply to anyone facing repetitive, never-ending work that is meaningful but feels like a slog. Judy introduces the core reframe: you have to redefine what "good" is, because if good means "getting to the end of the pile," you'll never have a good day. Sasha builds on this with the neuroscience of why repetitive work feels busy but unfulfilling, and how to turn the slog into deliberate practice that activates your brain's reward centers. The conversation expands to organizational leaders managing teams doing this kind of work—how do you set realistic performance metrics when the work truly never stops? The answer involves progress, autonomy, and learning, not completion. Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E4
April 29 · 32 min
Human-Centered AI: Building Brains, Not Replacing Them
As AI becomes more embedded in our everyday work, what does responsible, human-centered use actually look like? How can organizations ensure AI supports employees rather than making work feel more surveilled or dehumanizing? Sasha breaks down the neuroscience of cognitive offloading and why AI use can de-skill us faster than we realize, while Judy brings the organizational perspective on why AI adoption requires experimentation, which requires trust. We explore why leaders need to ask "what makes our people uniquely valuable?" before automating everything, and how to design AI implementation that actually benefits employees rather than just increasing surveillance. The key insight: AI is a massive opportunity to advance human flourishing, but only if we center people over profit. As Judy frames it, get clear on what you want to do in relationship and community with other people versus what you're genuinely ready to let go of. Have a question similar to this one that you'd like us to answer in an upcoming episode? Send it to transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E3
March 23 · 30 min
Why Your Workplace Well-Being Survey Isn't Working
Many organizations say they care about well-being and growth, but often measure what's easiest rather than what matters. So how can companies actually understand what truly affects employees' ability to do good work? Judy explains why most workplace well-being assessments are inadequate—they measure productivity and engagement but miss the deeper stuff. She introduces better frameworks like the Surgeon General's 5 Essentials for Workplace Mental Health and Well-being, which centers worker voice and equity. Sasha adds the neuroscience perspective on why qualitative and quantitative measures both matter for understanding well-being. The conversation tackles a critical point: if your team doesn't feel safe enough to be truthful on a survey, that IS data. Start there. Judy shares how she brings staff into the sense-making process of data, creating spaces where people can talk about what the numbers mean in their lived experience. The key question: are you gathering data to benefit the employee first and the company second? Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E2
February 25 · 33 min
Can We Actually Design Work Around Human Energy?
With all the return-to-office mandates and organizational changes happening, how can we design the way we work to actually support health, focus, and fulfillment instead of quietly burning everyone out? Judy reframes this as a design challenge, not a people problem—and explains why organizations need to get better at saying no strategically. Sasha brings the neuroscience of how your brain's natural energy cycles (ultradian rhythms) shape your workday, and why fighting against your biology is a losing battle. Together, we explore why doing less can actually mean accomplishing more, and why mission-driven organizations especially struggle with this paradox. Judy's key insight: healthy organizations aren't cemented into one way of doing things. They're adaptive. Sasha's reminder: you can't implement any of this without learning to say no to work that drains more than it benefits. And both agree: it's a practice, not a perfect. Have a question similar to this one that you'd like us to answer in an upcoming episode? Send it to transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! We love hearing from listeners! #ODHorizonStories
S4 · E1
January 27 · 28 min
Beyond Business as Usual: Leading Through Collective Crisis
Welcome to Season 4 of Transformation Horizon! We're switching things up this season with shorter, focused episodes where Judy and Sasha dig into the real questions leaders are grappling with right now. In this first episode, we tackle how healthy organizations balance empathy and flexibility with performance expectations when genuinely hard things happen—in our lives and in the world. We explore why trust is your foundation, what to put in place before crises hit rather than scrambling to respond, and why acknowledging what's happening actually helps people move forward. The bottom line: people are emotional first and logical second. You can ignore it, but it's there. Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at transformationhorizon@gmail.com. Please subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, give us a 5-star rating, and leave us a review! #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E10
Dec 23, 2024 · 1 hr 9 min
Season 3 Finale - Reflecting on Human Flourishing
Join us as we wrap up Season 3 with a powerful reflection on creating human flourishing in today's complex world. Through the lens of Organization Development principles, we explore key lessons learned from this season's conversations and what they mean for leaders navigating modern challenges. 🔍 Key Discussion Points: - The essential balance between acknowledging hard realities and fostering positive change - Reimagining technology as a tool for enhancing (not replacing) human connection - The critical role of energy management in sustainable organizational change 💡 Leadership Takeaways: - Embrace experimentation in these unprecedented times - Prioritize personal growth alongside managing people and systems - Create intentional pauses to help teams process change 🎬 Season Finale Note: While Season 4's timing is TBD, stay connected with us on social media for updates! 📧 Connect with us: transformationhorizon@gmail.com 🫶 Support our podcast: https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizon #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E9
Dec 13, 2024 · 43 min
Flourishing Across Cultures
In this episode, we go on a global journey exploring how immersing ourselves in different cultural contexts transforms ourselves and our professional practice. Join us as we unpack the personal insights gained from international conferences, local travels, and cross-cultural experiences. 🌍 Key Highlights: The power of cultural curiosity Building cross-cultural awareness as an OD practitioner Navigating discomfort and learning in unfamiliar spaces 🤔 Reflection Questions: How can stepping outside your comfort zone expand your professional skills? What cultural contexts have challenged your assumptions? 🌐 Want to connect to OD practitioners globally? Check out IODA (International Organization Development Association) at iodanet.org 🫶 Support our podcast: https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizon 💌 Insights to share? Email transformationhorizon@gmail.com #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E8
Nov 21, 2024 · 47 min
Reflections on Toronto's Mentorship Project
In this episode, we learn about what makes impactful mentorship programs successful, like the one described from Episode 3.7 for Toronto's Regent Park, that bridged gaps between different community segments and fostered economic opportunities. Judy and Sasha discuss the importance of context and highlighting what people care about to build stronger social connections and how they contribute to the overall well-being and cohesion of communities. The question we have for YOU... 🔎 What challenges do you see when trying to build social connections within communities and/or the workplace? Listen to Episode 3.7 to get caught up! Click here 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E7
Oct 24, 2024 · 53 min
Lessons from Toronto's Mentorship Project: Listening, Learning, and Flourishing
In this episode, Sasha and Judy sit down with Layla Zia, a social activist and community development specialist, to explore the fascinating realm of qualitative data in social initiatives. Layla shares insightful stories from her work in Toronto's Regent Park, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between qualitative and quantitative data. They delve into how listening without preconceived notions can unveil new perspectives and drive meaningful social change. Through candid discussions, the episode uncovers best practices for engaging communities, fostering mentorship, and implementing social projects. They also touch on the transformative power of social connections, particularly in mixed-income neighborhoods. Whether you're interested in community development, data-driven initiatives, or the evolving dynamics of mentorship, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E6
Sep 19, 2024 · 42 min
Reflections on TEDx
In this episode, we reflect on Judy and Minal's conversation following their experience attending a TEDx event. We explore the complexities of managing organizational change and the importance of handling both pre- and post-change periods to maintain productivity and well-being, and challenge the relevance of traditional theories in today's fast-paced environment. We also highlight AI's role in streamlining processes and discuss 'holacracy' as a decentralized organizational structure that can potentially balance individual needs with organizational goals. The question we have for YOU... 🔎 How can organizations find a balance between participatory methods and the need for quick decision-making? 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E5
Sep 5, 2024 · 1 hr 14 min
Flourishing at TEDx
In this episode, Judy sits down with the amazing Minal Bopaiah, an award-winning author and equity strategist, to chat about their takeaways from a TEDx event in DC themed "Terra Incognita". The event touched on a wide array of topics and this conversation reflects that! Tune in for a laid-back yet thought-provoking chat about the sketchy side of MDMA-assisted therapies, Christian nationalism in America, what's hype and what's real around AI technology, and how empathy and accountability play a part in restorative justice. Taking a step back and putting on their facilitator hats, they touch on the event's setup, the styles of different speakers, and the unfair expectation put on people of color to always be "inspirational". 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E4
Aug 8, 2024 · 42 min
Reflections on Endurance Sports
🪞 In this episode, we reflect on our insightful conversation with Dr. Shauna Payne Gold and Dr. Lisa Ingarfield. We delve into the complexities of equity in performance sports, the role of vulnerability in public discourse, and the importance of discussing flourishing through the lenses of diversity, inclusion, and equity. Emphasizing the need for a "flourishing toolbox," we explore how individuals can proactively support their well-being. The episode also tackles the challenges of balancing personal discomfort with the systemic discomfort experienced by marginalized groups, highlighting the importance of engaging in difficult conversations with empathy and understanding. ⚖️ The question we have for YOU... 🔎 How can we help others build confidence in tackling challenging conversations? 👉 Share your thoughts with us by sending an email to TransformationHorizon@gmail.com! 🫶 Enjoying the podcast? Support us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E3
Jul 25, 2024 · 57 min
Flourishing in Endurance Sports
🚴‍♀️ In this episode of Transformation Horizon, we engage in a profound discussion with Dr. Shauna Payne Gold and Dr. Lisa Ingarfield about their podcast, Unphased Unedited. The conversation delves into how organization development principles can foster human flourishing with a focus on the field of endurance sports. The guests share insights on addressing systemic barriers, asking critical questions, and the impact of honest dialogue even in discomfort. They also discuss the significance of self-care and boundary-setting in their work. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on promoting inclusion and equity in various contexts. 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E2
Jun 27, 2024 · 40 min
Reflections on Human Connection
🌐 Reflecting on Episode 3.1 with Pete Bombaci from The GenWell Project, we revisit fighting loneliness and the role of social media. We share our personal actions to combat loneliness and some lasting impressions from our discussion with Pete. Our conversation goes into exploring the role and impact of social media, and thoughts on using various connection mechanisms for positive outcomes. We also touch on the importance of balancing workplace connections, enhancing interactions, and addressing unmet social needs. Listen in as we dive into understanding how social well-being can revolutionize work environments and communities. 🌱✨ Some questions that came out of our conversation: 🔎 How is social connection, or psycho-social needs, related to the root causes of issues in the workplace? 🧐 Can AI be used to help us address social isolation? What would that look like? 👉 Share your thoughts with us by sending an email to TransformationHorizon@gmail.com! 🫶 Enjoying the podcast? Support us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories
S3 · E1
Jun 6, 2024 · 51 min
Flourishing in Human Connection
In this episode, we welcome Pete Bombaci, founder of The GenWell Project, a movement dedicated to fostering face-to-face social interactions for better mental and physical well-being. Pete shares compelling insights into the detrimental effects of loneliness, the benefits of social interaction, and practical ways to cultivate connectivity in workplaces and communities. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of The GenWell Project's impact and learn how promoting social health can lead to healthier, happier environments. 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories #GoFirst
May 16, 2024 · 7 min
Season 3 Trailer
🐳 Dive into stories of transformation as we explore the pursuit of human flourishing within organizations and their impact on the community. Join us for a season of insightful dialogues and inspiring narratives that connect organizational development with the broader goal of human flourishing. ✨ 💌 Have a question, comment, or a recommendation for a perfect guest? Please email us at TransformationHorizon@gmail.com. 🫶 Like what you hear and want to hear more? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon! https://patreon.com/TransformationHorizonPodcast #ODHorizonStories

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