Episode 184. Leading with Empathy: Five CHRO Perspectives on Workplace Culture
How HR Leaders Change the World
Release Date: 03/18/2025
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How HR Leaders Change the World
With over 30 years of HR experience, Andy reflects on the impact work has on people’s lives beyond the office - shaping families and communities. He shares how creating fulfilling environments and taking bold steps on talent, inclusion and opportunity can leave lasting legacies that extend far beyond any single organisation. Looking ahead, Andy discusses the opportunities and challenges of AI, urging HR to embrace learning, experimentation and even failure, as essential tools to reimagine the world of work. He shares how Kantar has built an authentic community of AI influencers by...
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How HR Leaders Change the World
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How HR Leaders Change the World
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Episode 201: Be the Challenge: HR Leadership in the Future of Work: Louisa Finlay, Chief People Officer at Kier Group plc
How HR Leaders Change the World
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Episode 200: Future-Ready Leadership & AI Empowerment - Celebrating 200 Episodes of HR Impact with 5 Trailblazing CHROs
How HR Leaders Change the World
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Episode 199: Human-centred Leadership - from Call Centre to C-Suite: Lisa Hannah, Chief People & Communications Officer at Aldermore Bank plc
How HR Leaders Change the World
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Episode 198: 80% Millennial & GenZ – HR Leadership for the New Majority – Severine Riviere-Gerstner, Chief People Officer at Sportradar
How HR Leaders Change the World
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How HR Leaders Change the World
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How HR Leaders Change the World
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Episode 195. Sustaining Thriving Cultures in Turbulent Times – Becky Hewitt OBE, CEO & Co-Owner, Kin&Co
How HR Leaders Change the World
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info_outlineIn this episode we explore one of the most frequently discussed themes in our conversations with CHROs - empathy.
As businesses navigate a rapidly changing world, empathy is rising up the people agenda, shaping leadership and workplace culture. We looked back through the library to bring you five perspectives on the benefits of empathy for your workplace culture:
- Yetunde Hofmann, Non-Exec & Remco Chair – Exploring the powerful link between love and results, Yetunde shares how leading with love can transform organisational culture.
- Stephane Charbonnier, Former CHRO, L’Oréal North America – Highlighting L’Oréal’s Listening Circles, Stephane demonstrates how genuine listening fosters a true sense of belonging.
- Donna Murray Vilhelmsen, CHRO, Trustpilot – Advocating for vulnerability in leadership, Donna discusses its role in building trust and authenticity.
- Helen Russell, Chief People Officer, HubSpot – Emphasising connection, Helen explains how HR leaders who embrace empathy drive meaningful change.
- Kaylee Darkins, CHRO – UK and Lloyd’s, AXA XL – Sharing insights from AXA XL’s Authentic You programme, Kaylee underscores the importance of psychological safety.
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For deeper insights, find links in the show notes to each CHRO’s full episode, plus a recent conversation with Chris Garthwaite, CEO of CGA Experience, on How Empathy is Shaping the Future of Work.
Until next time, keep leading with empathy!
This episode is sponsored by CGA Empathy Lab®
If you want a happier, more confident workforce, to reduce absenteeism and workplace anxiety and put an end to situations that may result in conflict, you should experience the CGA Empathy Lab®.
By teaching employees the power of empathy, they can enjoy better conversations and create better experiences, not only for themselves but for other employees and customers, ultimately driving business purpose and performance.
There’s no better way to experience the world through the eyes of others and learn how to make every moment matter.
CGA Empathy Lab® - Winner of the ‘People, Skills, and Diversity Award’ for the Rail Industry.
For deeper insights, find links in the show notes to each CHRO’s full episode, plus a recent conversation with Chris Garthwaite, CEO of CGA Experience, on How Empathy is Shaping the Future of Work (see References below).
Until next time, keep leading with empathy!
Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?
Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth.
Our March book of the month is Dare to Lead by Brené Brown.
In a world full of uncertainty, this brilliant book is a powerful reminder that courage is essential to building brave leaders and creating cultures rooted in connection, bold action and meaningful change.
Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab a copy, and we hope you enjoy this month’s Uplifting Book!
References:
Episode 75: Leading with love: Yetunde Hofmann, NED and Remco Chair
Episode.90: Posture at work – what’s yours? Stephane Charbonnier, CHRO, L’Oreal USA
Episode 101: The business benefits of vulnerability: Donna Murray Vilhelmsen, CHRO, Trustpilot
Episode 178: Wellbeing, Belonging & The Power of HR: Kaylee Darkins, CHRO - UK and Lloyd’s at AXA XL
Episode 181: How Empathy is Shaping the Future of Work, Chris Garthwaite, CEO, CGA Experience