HR Superstars
HR and People Ops can be challenging, but there’s a community of others who’ve been in your shoes. HR Superstars is the podcast from 15Five that connects you with confident and respected strategic people leaders who have conquered a myriad of challenges and now have valuable and actionable insights to share. In each episode, our host, Karina Young, VP of People at 15Five, will talk to some of the world’s leading innovators in the HR/People Ops space willing to share their insights and advice to help you in your journey. We get real with topics like being a strategic business partner to the rest of the organization, how to have difficult conversations while maintaining empathy, and how to make DEI a part of your cultural DNA instead of just lip service. 15Five is here to help you do what matters most—develop your workforce, create a strong employer brand, and be respected as the strategic business partner you are. Come join thousands of your fellow HR Superstars; we’re so excited to have you.
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How to Design a Boardroom-Worthy Performance Strategy
07/01/2025
How to Design a Boardroom-Worthy Performance Strategy
Even though people are at the heart of business outcomes, HR leaders still struggle to be seen as essential voices at the executive table. In this episode, , VP of People at 15Five, sits down with , Chief Product and Marketing Officer at 15Five, to talk about how to show up in the boardroom with clarity and confidence. Jeff shares lessons from working closely with HR leaders over the years and offers practical guidance on how to present people strategy as business strategy. They cover how to prepare for board meetings, tell compelling stories with data, and answer tough questions without losing trust. This episode offers an honest and empowering look at why HR deserves a seat at the table. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Jeff Smith (05:02) Jeff Smith on what happens inside a boardroom (07:13) Fighting for your seat at the table (08:31) How to communicate HR strategy in business terms (10:42) Organizing the data you’re presenting (13:53) The value of preparing with your peers (20:29) How to prep for tough questions in the boardroom (22:19) Avoiding common pitfalls in presentations (23:22) The power of storytelling when sharing data (26:54) Building confidence and presence ahead of high-stakes conversations Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Jeff Smith’s LinkedIn -
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Equipping Managers Without Overwhelming HR with Yen Tan & Morgan Webb
06/17/2025
Equipping Managers Without Overwhelming HR with Yen Tan & Morgan Webb
HR leaders are feeling the squeeze. With limited resources and growing pressure to improve engagement, performance, and retention, many are tasked with building manager support systems from scratch, often without the time or tools to do it effectively. In this episode, , Senior Strategic Advisor at 15Five, and , Evangelist, Expansion & Manager Products at 15Five, share how HR can take a more focused and sustainable approach to manager enablement. They discuss why blanket training programs rarely work, how to use data to identify where support is needed most, and why piloting and iterating can drive better results than aiming for perfection. This conversation guides HR teams ready to stop doing it all and start doing what works. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Yen Tan & Morgan Webb (03:24) Yen Tan on management journey and challenges (04:43) Morgan Webb shares leadership lessons (06:55) The current state of HR and why HR owns manager enablement (10:04) Managers are the bridge between HR goals and culture (16:26) The danger of generic training and what to do instead (18:18) The 70-20-10 model and learning styles (20:01) Piloting and adapting learning based on feedback (28:01) Overcoming skepticism and finding champions (31:41) Measuring the effectiveness of manager enablement (35:12) Continuous measurement for engagement and health (37:07) Using manager meetings and existing rhythms for reinforcement Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: here:
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Is HR’s Strategic Role at Risk? What the Data Tells Us, And What to Do About It with Will Howard & David Hawthorne
06/03/2025
Is HR’s Strategic Role at Risk? What the Data Tells Us, And What to Do About It with Will Howard & David Hawthorne
HR teams are moving from external hiring to internal impact. , Practice Lead at , shares the latest research behind HR’s shift in priorities, showing why retention and leadership now take the lead. , Chief People Officer at t, brings a real-world lens to the data. He explains how to move from reactive to strategic, why data literacy matters, and how to rethink people leadership from the ground up. Together, they explore how HR can stay relevant by aligning with business goals and building the kind of leadership that drives results. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Will Howard & David Hawthorne (01:30) What is McLean & Company's HR Trends Report (04:29) Will Howard breaks down the new data (09:52) Turning HR’s reactive response into a proactive strategy (11:51) The risk of HR losing strategic ground (18:52) Data literacy as an opportunity for HR impact (27:12) Rethinking leadership and career paths Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Performance Review Playbook:() For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: here: Will Howard’s LinkedIn - David Hawthorne’s LinkedIn - McLean & Company - Anchor Point Management Group -
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Why Retention Starts with Better Managers with David Hawthorne
05/20/2025
Why Retention Starts with Better Managers with David Hawthorne
Trends are everywhere, but translating them into real business impact takes more than reading a report. It takes HR leaders who understand their business and know how to turn insights into strategy. , Chief People Officer at , shares how he brings 2025 HR trends to life by aligning people strategy with business goals. He breaks down how to scale leadership, strengthen culture, and improve retention in a high-growth environment, from hiring the right people and developing frontline managers into future executives. He also explains why HR can’t operate in a silo—and how becoming a true business partner starts with knowing how your company runs. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: David Hawthorne (02:18) David Hawthorne’s HR journey at Anchor Point (05:57) Shift from hiring to leadership & retention (09:16) Understanding business to boost HR impact (18:34) Moving from tactical to strategic HR (22:46) Leadership’s role in reducing turnover (29:50) AI’s role in HR now and in the future (40:09) The risk of not evolving in HR Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Click here to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: David Hawthorne’s LinkedIn - Anchor Point Management Group -
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Solving the Conundrum of International Distributed Teams with Alexandra Erman
05/06/2025
Solving the Conundrum of International Distributed Teams with Alexandra Erman
Global teams give companies access to top talent and fresh perspectives, but managing them comes with challenges—time zones, cultural differences, and keeping everyone aligned. , Chief People Officer at , knows what it takes to lead international teams successfully. In this episode, she shares how to foster connection across borders while respecting local cultures. She explains why businesses should move beyond country-centric mindsets and build people strategies rooted in flexibility, trust, and autonomy. Alexandra also dives into the role of clear communication and pay equity in creating a strong, unified workforce. Whether you're leading a remote team or expanding globally, this conversation offers practical insights to help your people thrive. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Alexandra Erman (05:47) Creating unity in an international workforce (10:35) Enabling asynchronous communication across time zones (15:02) Why early HR leadership matters (18:18) HR metrics for distributed teams (21:58) BeforeAI’s dual management system (32:20) Compensation bands and pay transparency (39:21) Intentional ways to support a global workforce Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Performance Review Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Alexandra Erman’s LinkedIn: BforeAI's Website:
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Putting a Human Touch on Data-Driven HR with Brittany Rohde
04/22/2025
Putting a Human Touch on Data-Driven HR with Brittany Rohde
Being data-driven doesn’t mean sacrificing the human side of HR. Data can be used to guide decisions while keeping people at the center. , Head of People at , believes that HR can be both analytical and people-focused. She shares how to scale sustainably by using automation wisely, bringing employees into key decisions, and building trust through transparency. Brittany also explains why data literacy is an essential skill for HR leaders—helping them make better decisions, strengthen teams, and drive long-term success. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Brittany Rohde (05:58) Building a comp plan that’s fair to everyone (09:26) Intentional scaling during rapid growth (14:32) How to get buy-in from employees (18:42) The power of transparency in open forums (22:28) Building relationships as a remote company (25:44) How to maximize employee engagement surveys (31:07) The value of mentorship for HR leaders (35:33) Setting boundaries for work-life balance Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Brittany Rohde’s LinkedIn: Monarch Money’s website:
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Discovering Your Leadership Voice with Susannah Robinson
04/08/2025
Discovering Your Leadership Voice with Susannah Robinson
What kind of leader do you want to be? Pause and really think about that. Or better yet, write it down on paper. , Founder and President of emphasizes the importance of defining your leadership vision. In this episode, she explains how self-awareness, trust, and consistency shape leadership and why your approach should evolve over time. Having guided countless leaders through this process, Susannah shares how authenticity builds trust and fosters accountability. She also gives advice to help HR leaders become more business-minded, ensuring their work drives tangible outcomes that align with company goals. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Susannah Robinson (04:38) The value of fractional HR and org design (08:45) Why leadership self-awareness matters (16:19) Evolving leadership styles over time (19:11) How to think about and handle mistakes (26:23) How to strategically embed HR into the business (31:40) Making time for leadership development (34:09) Figure out who you are as a leader Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s HR Leader’s Guide to Reducing Regrettable Turnover: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Susannah Robinson’s LinkedIn: Partnership for Talent: Beyond the Boxes and Lines:
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How to Break the Burnout Cycle with Brittany Fowler and Stephanie Smith
03/25/2025
How to Break the Burnout Cycle with Brittany Fowler and Stephanie Smith
HR teams provide emotional, mental, and strategic support to their organizations, but who’s supporting them? As burnout among HR leaders reaches alarming levels, it’s clear that those responsible for employee well-being often struggle themselves. Recorded live at the 5th HR Superstars Summit, this episode features at Kickstarter and at Tagboard as they share their personal experiences with burnout, the warning signs to watch for, and the strategies they’ve implemented to create a healthier, more sustainable approach to HR. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstars: Brittany Fowler and Stephanie Smith (03:40) Recognizing the warning signs of burnout (08:52) Challenges that overwhelm HR teams (14:35) How to support teams in times of stress (21:34) Balancing administrative tasks and strategic work (25:28) Ways to boost employee morale (27:30) Using AI for admin tasks (29:34) Mitigate burnout through engagement surveys Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Brittany Fowler’s LinkedIn: Stephanie Smith’s LinkedIn: Kickstarter’s Website: Tagboard’s Website:
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Stop the BS and Thrive at Work with Kelly Mackin
03/11/2025
Stop the BS and Thrive at Work with Kelly Mackin
There is no magic formula for creating a happy and engaged workforce. Every employee has unique needs and values, and understanding those differences is the key to building thriving teams. , CEO of , explains why a one-size-fits-all approach to engagement doesn’t work. Her firsthand experience in a toxic work environment inspired her to develop a framework for understanding the 28 human motives that drive well-being. By uncovering what matters most to each individual, both leaders and team members can co-create a healthy culture where everyone feels seen and supported. Kelly also shares how leaders can begin taking small but meaningful steps to create a more personalized approach to work-life harmony. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Kelly Mackin (02:02) The impact of toxic workplaces on well-being (07:52) Debunking well-being myths (10:42) How to create space to honor everyone’s needs and motives (22:42) Success story of motives being met at work (26:13) Make a work-life harmony playbook with your team (30:44) Workplace well-being is mandatory Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Performance Review Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Kelly Mackin’s LinkedIn: Motives Met assessment tool: Work Life Well-Lived:
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Why Your Offsite Isn’t Working (Yet) with Jared Kleinert
02/25/2025
Why Your Offsite Isn’t Working (Yet) with Jared Kleinert
All teams strive for stronger connections, better communication, and true alignment. Offsites can help make that happen—but only when designed with purpose. In this episode, , Founder and CEO of , shares what makes an offsite truly effective. He explains how to move beyond basic event planning and create experiences that deepen engagement, reinforce company culture, and boost retention. He also discusses how HR leaders can gain executive buy-in and ensure your offsite is more than just a line item on the budget. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Meet HR Superstar: Jared Kleinert (05:23) Why in-person retreats are more effective than remote meetings (07:38) The logistics behind successful offsite planning (12:58) How offsites improve company culture and strategic alignment (17:09) Employer branding and attracting a multigenerational workforce (28:05) Making the business case for offsites and long-term ROI Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or YouTube, Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn: Download 15Five’s Performance Review Playbook: For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here: Jared Kleinert’s LinkedIn: The Offsite Blog: Offsite’s website:
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How to Lead From the Heart with Mark Crowley
02/11/2025
How to Lead From the Heart with Mark Crowley
How do you create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and inspired to stay? , author of and a pioneer in human-centered leadership, believes it starts with cultivating a culture of care. Drawing on groundbreaking research and decades of experience, Mark explains how emotions, trust, and belonging shape employee well-being and performance. Mark also shares the science behind the heart’s role in decision-making, revealing how positive emotions, like safety and appreciation, lead to innovation and loyalty. He shares actionable insights for managers and HR leaders on creating a thriving team dynamic—one that balances well-being and performance for long-term success. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Mark Crowley (01:25) How life shaped Mark’s leadership approach (04:28) The moment Mark recognized his leadership style (08:12) The heart’s role in leadership and performance (15:20) The “rule of four” for workplace emotions (16:53) Addressing resistance to heart-centered leadership (24:13) Tips for HR to drive meaningful change (28:28) HR needs both a heart and a backbone (31:26) Belonging’s impact on team performance (36:45) The power of one-on-ones for remote teams Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on . Click to download 15Five’s Employee Engagement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Mark Crowley’s LinkedIn - click !
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REPLAY: Finding Solid Ground Amidst Burnout with Jim Marsden
01/28/2025
REPLAY: Finding Solid Ground Amidst Burnout with Jim Marsden
Burnout isn’t a sign of overwork—it’s a sign of internal misalignment. In this replay episode, leadership coach reframes burnout as a powerful signal to realign with your values and purpose. He shares advice on how to combat burnout by embracing curiosity, reconnecting with nature, and finding small but meaningful moments of perspective. Jim also introduces his "street-of-life" metaphor, a framework for identifying stress states and shifting to a more grounded, intentional mindset. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jim Marsden (04:09) The deep roots of burnout (07:57) Why it’s important to find perspective (13:57) The street-of-life concept for navigating stress (19:45) Supporting others during burnout (24:07) Practical steps to regain balance (32:05) Avoiding big decisions during stress and finding small wins (34:42) Dare to imagine: Aligning your work with what truly brings you alive Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! And don’t forget to sign up for the HR Superstars Summit 2025 . For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Jim Marsden’s LinkedIn - click !
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Passing the Mic and Introducing Karina Young as Your New Host
01/14/2025
Passing the Mic and Introducing Karina Young as Your New Host
This episode marks an exciting new chapter for HR Superstars as passes the mic to , the new host and VP of People at 15Five. Adam reflects on his journey as the podcast's host, sharing highlights, lessons, and the incredible connections he’s made with HR leaders around the world. Karina steps in to share her vision for the future of the podcast, focusing on empowering managers, navigating organizational change, and exploring cutting-edge trends in HR. With a passion for creating thriving workplaces, Karina aims to spotlight innovative strategies and foster meaningful conversations with today’s leading people leaders. Join us as we celebrate Adam’s legacy and welcome Karina’s fresh perspective on shaping the future of HR leadership. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Karina Young (00:52) Adam reflects on his journey with HR Superstars (02:11) Meet Karina: the new host of HR Superstars (03:08) Karina’s focus on scaling and manager empowerment (07:17) How early career experiences shaped Karina’s HR approach (10:28) What excites Karina in being the host of HR Superstars (19:13) Karina interviews Adam on favorite podcast moments (24:42) Adam shares proud memories and lessons learned (29:10) Adam’s parting advice on authenticity Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on . Here are Adam's favorite episodes from this season: Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click .
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REPLAY: Perfect Is the Enemy of Progress with Liesel Mertes
12/24/2024
REPLAY: Perfect Is the Enemy of Progress with Liesel Mertes
As we go into 2025, we must keep this in mind... Empathy isn’t a personality trait. According to , Founder of , it’s an essential workplace skill we need to hone. And at the same time, people who go through disruptions and hard times have to eventually return to the office and add value to the organization. There’s a balance between having empathetic conversations and being honest about the nature of the employer/employee relationship. In this episode replay, Liesel shares practical ways to strengthen your empathy muscle as a manager, HR leader, and friend. She explains what is and isn't effective at helping someone through hardship and offers tangible tools to care for people well. Join us as we discuss: [09:00] How to handle the pivotal first moments after a disruptive event [15:30] Creating an “empathy menu” [20:00] Managing change fatigue [23:00] Rituals to care for yourself as an HR leader [28:00] Metabolizing the hard stories you hold [35:00] Balancing fortitude and empathy Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Liesel Mertes’ LinkedIn - click !
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How to Build a Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Team with Jignasha Amin
12/17/2024
How to Build a Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Team with Jignasha Amin
Your company’s mission and values can shape its culture globally. In this episode, , Former Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at , shares how organizations can create a consistent and unified culture across different locations and generations by embedding core values into every part of the business. Jignasha explains how this approach strengthens employee engagement and drives long-term success. By aligning everyone from leadership to new hires around a shared mission, companies can build a culture that thrives worldwide. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jignasha Amin (02:28) Key elements of a successful global workforce strategy (09:18) How Jignasha built a unified culture across a global, multi-generational workforce (13:41) Employee recognition programs that reinforce company values (16:55) How engaged employees boost productivity and business performance (18:20) Jignasha’s strategies for addressing disengaged employees and fostering re-engagement (25:06) Embracing the multi-generational workforce and its unique motivations (27:16) Tailoring development opportunities for all generations with HR technology Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Employee Engagement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Jignasha Amin’s LinkedIn - click !
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Retaining Top Talent Through the Power of Mentorship with Clint Pulver
12/10/2024
Retaining Top Talent Through the Power of Mentorship with Clint Pulver
How do you turn managers into mentors for a higher retention rate? Emmy Award Winner, Top Keynote Speaker, and #1 Bestselling Author, believes it starts with connection and setting high standards. Drawing from his research and over 11,000 undercover interviews, Clint reveals how having a “mentor manager” can be the secret to employee engagement and commitment. Clint shares how leaders can move beyond traditional management by implementing strategies like status interviews and fostering meaningful conversations. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and continual growth, showing how the right leadership approach can turn challenges into opportunities. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Clint Pulver (06:15) How great leaders create a workplace people never want to leave (07:07) Mentorship’s role in shaping better careers (14:30) Why self-awareness makes better leaders (18:49) Implementing the “mentor manager” concept at scale (23:42) Three essential questions leaders should ask (26:39) The importance of having a Director of Happiness Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Clint Pulver’s LinkedIn - click !
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Building Trust with Founder CEOs and Elevating HR Leadership with Kelli Dragovich
12/03/2024
Building Trust with Founder CEOs and Elevating HR Leadership with Kelli Dragovich
How do you gain founders' trust and lead HR in high-growth companies? , Former Chief People Officer at , believes it all begins with understanding who they are and what they care about. With over two decades of HR leadership, Kelli reveals how she’s built successful partnerships with visionary founders while navigating the complex world of company culture and leadership. She highlights the importance of adaptability and staying focused on long-term career growth while remaining true to your leadership style. Kelli’s perspective offers a roadmap for HR leaders to balance business priorities with personal values, helping them navigate challenges and thrive in their roles. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Kelli Dragovich (04:16) Kelli’s transition to executive coaching and her business-first approach to HR (07:06) Challenges of working with founders and aligning HR with their unique leadership styles (13:04) How to choose the right organizations and leaders to work with (16:44) Advice for mid-level HR leaders looking to level up their careers (24:45) The value of networking and looking beyond your current role Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Kelli Dragovich LinkedIn - click !
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Amplifying Positivity in the Workplace with Claude Silver
11/26/2024
Amplifying Positivity in the Workplace with Claude Silver
In a world filled with cynicism, one force stands stronger: optimism. In this episode, Chief Heart Officer at , offers a refreshing perspective on amplifying positivity while steering clear of toxic positivity. She shares how an unexpected meeting with Gary Vaynerchuk led her to New York and to a role tasked with building "the single greatest human organization." Drawing from her past in hospitality and advertising, Claude shares insights on transforming traditional HR, managing a large organization with empathy, and leading by example. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Claude Silver (02:23) Claude’s journey to leadership and authentic optimism (09:55) Why optimism is crucial for leadership (15:06) Top performers focus on the present, not the past (20:20) Making fast decisions and building trust at scale (22:41) Building a service-oriented HR team (27:04) The power of HR communication in shaping culture (30:12) Owning your space and initiating change without waiting Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Claude Silver’s LinkedIn - click !
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How HR and Leadership Drive Culture Together with Jon Rosenson and Molly Perenic
11/19/2024
How HR and Leadership Drive Culture Together with Jon Rosenson and Molly Perenic
Can a strong HR-COO partnership transform employee engagement and company culture? and believe it absolutely can. As leaders at , Jon and Molly share how their close collaboration has led to a thriving work environment where employees are engaged and aligned with the company’s goals. They discuss the power of clear communication, the impact of small but meaningful changes, and the importance of meeting employees where they are—whether in the office or remotely. Jon and Molly also provide insights into scaling tribal knowledge and fostering a culture of continuous feedback, demonstrating how a united leadership team can drive significant positive change across an organization. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jon Rosenson and Molly Perenic (03:52) Defining employee engagement and its impact on organizational success (06:14) Encouraging feedback and creating a culture of psychological safety (07:25) The impact of small changes (09:50) Scaling tribal knowledge across a growing organization (13:01) Adapting engagement strategies for different worker types (19:54) Flexibility in a 24-hour work environment (23:47) Leadership reflections and the importance of cross-team collaboration Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Employee Engagement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Molly Perenic LinkedIn - click ! Jon Rosenson LinkedIn - click !
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Secret #5: Share Your Impact to Instill Belief Across the Company
11/12/2024
Secret #5: Share Your Impact to Instill Belief Across the Company
Share your impact to instill belief across the company. As an HR leader, you can inspire your team and create a culture of trust by consistently showcasing the meaningful work you're doing. In this episode, , host of HR Superstars, explores how the best HR leaders build company-wide confidence through transparency and storytelling. He shares practical steps for communicating successes in a way that resonates with every level of the organization. From crafting compelling narratives to using every available medium, this episode will guide you on making your initiatives not just seen but truly believed in. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) An introduction to the fifth secret (01:33) An overview of the Five Secrets (03:01) The fifth and final secret that differentiates top HR leaders (03:50) Balancing optimism with transparency (04:39) The power of repetition in communication (06:42) Three steps to inspire company-wide change Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click .
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Transforming HR into a Strategic Powerhouse with Andrew Bartlow
11/05/2024
Transforming HR into a Strategic Powerhouse with Andrew Bartlow
It’s time to speak the language of the business while elevating the HR professional. And to do this, there must be a mindset shift. As the CEO of People Leader Accelerator, draws on his experience to reveal how HR leaders can shift from traditional roles to becoming strategic business partners. He breaks down the critical importance of aligning HR goals with the company’s top priorities and how this alignment can redefine the value HR brings to the table. Andrew also offers clear, actionable strategies for overcoming common challenges like burnout and disconnected goals. By focusing on business impact and adopting a management consultant mindset, HR leaders can elevate their roles and make a lasting difference in their organizations. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Andrew Bartlow (02:20) What’s most broken about HR today (03:08) The shift in HR’s role over the last five years (04:45) How to elevate HR professionals to strategic roles (11:39) How to act as a management consultant within HR (16:42) Prioritize business needs within your strategy (17:54) Dealing with burnout within HR (21:02) Personal strategies for managing your workload and priorities Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Andrew Bartlow LinkedIn - click !
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Secret #4: Activate Managers to Operationalize Work
10/29/2024
Secret #4: Activate Managers to Operationalize Work
While HR leaders often juggle many challenges, Adam Weber, Host of HR Superstars, suggests that effective people management is one of the most critical issues they face. Adam shares that strategic HR is not about doing everything yourself but about leveraging the power of your managers. He introduces the fourth secret from the top 5% of HR leaders, highlighting the necessity of activating managers to drive organizational success. Adam also shares compelling statistics that underscore the impact of managerial efficiency on employee engagement and performance while offering practical strategies to empower managers, such as creating clear expectations, providing ongoing support and resources, and implementing a system to assess managerial effectiveness. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the fourth secret of the top 5% of HR leaders (01:11) The superhero mindset in HR and its drawbacks (05:05) The importance of activating managers (05:12) One-third of HR time is spent on issues caused by poor managers (08:41) Practical steps to support and empower managers Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click .
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Breaking the Cycle of Burnout and Boredom with Sherry Woosley
10/22/2024
Breaking the Cycle of Burnout and Boredom with Sherry Woosley
The key to retention lies in understanding why employees truly stay. In this episode, Adam Weber sits down with , Director of Analytics and Research at Elentra, to explore the surprising phenomenon of being "busy but bored" and how it impacts motivation and retention. Sherry explains the difference between meaningful engagement and mere task completion. She shares insights on innovative solutions like Fun Day Friday initiatives that not only challenge employees but also rejuvenate their interest in their work. Sherry also discusses why employees stay, from job adventure to skill development, and why personalized meaning is crucial for satisfaction. Her advice on balancing work loyalty and future career growth provides a comprehensive approach to fostering a thriving workplace. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with Sherry Woosley (03:06) The impact of COVID-19 on employee retention (05:03) What motivates employees to stay at their jobs (07:49) What work-life balance mean to different employees (10:48) Exploring boredom in the workplace (12:53) Understanding the concept of "busy but bored" (15:04) Strategies for managing different types of boredom (22:33) How to combat boredom by focusing on the future of employees Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Leader’s Guide to Reducing Regrettable Turnover! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Sherry Woosley LinkedIn - click !
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Secret #3: Show Courage When Pitching Your Ideas
10/15/2024
Secret #3: Show Courage When Pitching Your Ideas
Ever felt like your career is stuck in a loop of rejection and frustration? @Adam Weber, Host of HR Superstars, offers insights for HR leaders facing constant roadblocks when pitching innovative ideas. In this episode, Adam shares the third secret of top HR performers:––how to show courage when pitching your ideas. Drawing on examples from his own experiences, Adam discusses the importance of confidently presenting, understanding the business context, and leveraging data to strengthen your pitch. He also provides practical steps and motivational advice for handling rejection and fighting for a "yes." Join us as we discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the episode (01:52) The importance of pitching with courage in HR (07:07) How to turn rejection into success (08:56) Seeking approval vs. selling ideas effectively (11:24) Maximizing manager effectiveness through key talent metrics Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click .
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Tackling CEO Favoritism and Creating a Fair Workplace with Alex Seiler
10/08/2024
Tackling CEO Favoritism and Creating a Fair Workplace with Alex Seiler
Have you ever wondered if CEO favoritism can shape the culture of an entire organization? According to , it definitely can. Alex, a seasoned Chief People Officer with over 15 years of global experience, shares the often-overlooked impacts of CEO favoritism on organizational culture and how it manifests in promotions, decision-making, and social dynamics. Drawing from his experience, Alex discusses practical strategies for tackling these challenges and fostering a fairer, more inclusive workplace. He shares how intentionality, communication, and strategic thinking are the tools to transform your leadership approach. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with Alex Seiler (02:17) How CEO favoritism impacts company culture (07:12) Strategies for addressing CEO favoritism and fostering intentional leadership (15:42) How to find quick wins to impact the culture as a new Chief People Officer (21:10) How Alex transformed an entire HR department in 18 months (31:48) Alex’s visions of the future of HR with accountability, Four-Day Workweeks, and DEI Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Performance Review Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Alex Seiler LinkedIn - click !
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Secret #2: Moving Beyond Gut Instinct with Data-Driven HR
10/01/2024
Secret #2: Moving Beyond Gut Instinct with Data-Driven HR
Can gut instinct alone guide strategic HR decisions effectively? doesn’t think so. In this episode, he discusses the second secret of the top 5% of HR leaders: the pivotal role of data and metrics in advancing bold initiatives. Adam highlights the transformation HR is undergoing, drawing parallels to the marketing industry's shift from intuition to data-driven strategies. He shares insights on how data empowers HR leaders to move from a reactive to a proactive stance, prioritizing work that aligns with critical business outcomes: maximizing employee performance, increasing engagement, and reducing regrettable turnover. Join us as we discuss: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [01:00] Why your gut instinct isn’t enough [03:47] How to use data to focus on what’s important [08:16] Real-world example: implementing a four-day work week Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Employee Engagement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click .
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Improving Job Descriptions and Employee Retention with Wendy Sellers
09/24/2024
Improving Job Descriptions and Employee Retention with Wendy Sellers
A little bit of empathy makes a big difference in the workplace. In this episode, Adam Weber sits down with , known as "The HR Lady," to explore the power of empathy, the value of personality assessments, and the importance of clear communication. Wendy offers valuable insights into recognizing different personality styles and the often misunderstood concept that "common sense is not common" can improve employee performance and satisfaction. Wendy’s advice on creating a work environment where everyone feels understood, valued, and equipped is valuable for all. Join us as we discuss: (00:00) An introduction to the episode (01:27) How Wendy became "The HR Lady" (03:09) Why Personality Assessments are important in the workplace (09:36) The dynamics of introversion vs. extroversion in the workplace (16:55) Why common sense is not common (21:12) The importance of having accurate job descriptions Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player. Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Wendy Sellers LinkedIn - click !
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Secret #1: You must Speak the Language of Your Business
09/17/2024
Secret #1: You must Speak the Language of Your Business
How do top HR leaders successfully pitch new ideas and gain executive buy-in? In this episode, reveals why the key lies in speaking the language of the business. Drawing from his experience with many HR leaders, Adam shares insights on tailoring HR strategies to align with overarching business goals. He explains the importance of understanding company priorities, incorporating business jargon, and building HR initiatives that executives view as logical extensions of the company strategy. Tune in for actionable steps and a practical role-playing scenario to illustrate how you can present your ideas effectively. Join us as we discuss: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [01:34] Why top HR leaders must speak the language of business [02:49] Think like a business leader, not just an HR professional [07:15] How to put secret#1 into practice Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Click to hear the introduction to the 5 Secrets series!
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From Overwhelm to Excellence in Leadership with Anita Grantham
09/10/2024
From Overwhelm to Excellence in Leadership with Anita Grantham
What if the secret to extraordinary organizational success lies in being playful and fearless? believes it does. A leading people leader and Head of HR at BambooHR, Anita shares her unique approach to building a company that outperforms the market. Her journey to running HR at a top SaaS company is filled with lessons in embracing curiosity, learning from pain, and maintaining positive energy. Anita emphasizes the importance of showing up consistently as a leader, viewing work through a lens of gratitude, and creating an environment where values and mission drive every action. Join us as we discuss: 00:00 Introduction to the episode with Anita Grantham 03:00 Anita's unconventional journey to becoming an HR leader 05:57 Initial challenges when entering the HR field 09:11 How to build and sustain company culture 11:07 Aligning company values with daily actions and performance reviews 19:47 How to address difficult issues while maintaining a positive culture 28:11 The importance of setting boundaries to balance work and personal life 30:33 Key skills Anita had to develop for HR leadership Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s Manager Enablement Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Anita Grantham’s LinkedIn - click !
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Empowering Leaders Through On-The-Job Coaching with Katie Burke
09/03/2024
Empowering Leaders Through On-The-Job Coaching with Katie Burke
Is it possible to create a high-performance culture without losing the human touch? believes it is. On this episode, Katie Burke, former Chief People Officer of HubSpot, shares how her unique journey from media relations to chief people officer shaped her view on progressive people operations. Reflecting on her 11-year journey at HubSpot, Katie discusses the critical importance of on-the-job coaching and regular feedback for team performance. Katie and Adam discuss the traits of top HR leaders, balancing employee satisfaction with high-performance demands, and the art of trusting one's intuition in HR. Tune in to learn more on sustaining high performance, motivating employees, and maintaining authenticity in company culture. Join us as we discuss: 00:00 Introduction to the episode with Katie Burke 06:56 HubSpot's counterintuitive bets on non-traditional hires 12:56 The importance of reflective learning and growth in leadership roles 17:54 How addressing minor issues helps retain employees 20:30 Balancing entitlement and meaningful feedback in organizations 25:26 How to strive for high performance through intentional choices 29:27 Why clear leadership and feedback is essential for performance 32:41 Be thoughtful, picky, and intentional in seeking opportunities Resources: For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on , , or , Or tune in . Original podcast track produced by . Want to connect with thousands of other strategic HR leaders like you? Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.* Hear Adam’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following him on . Click to download 15Five’s HR Outcomes Playbook! For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click . Katie Burke’s LinkedIn - click !
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