Working Forward
Working Forward is a future of work podcast exploring the trends, technologies, and ideas shaping how we work and lead. From AI in the workplace and workplace technology to workplace culture and emerging workforce trends, each episode helps leaders understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how to prepare for what’s next. Featuring insights from experts and thought leaders around the world, Working Forward gives listeners practical perspective for navigating the future of work with confidence.
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Peering Into the Future | Jason Cochran on Lead the People
10/06/2026
Peering Into the Future | Jason Cochran on Lead the People
The future of work is coming whether we’re ready or not. The leaders who thrive won’t be the ones with the perfect prediction. They’ll be the ones willing to learn, adapt, and bring their people along for the ride. Matt Poepsel sits down with Jason Cochran to explore why mindset must come before strategy when navigating change. Jason shares why “change is kind,” how values can make teams more adaptable, and why leaders need to rethink old assumptions before they become barriers to growth. From AI and Generation Alpha to workplace flexibility and the future of meaningful work, this conversation challenges leaders to stop clinging to what worked yesterday and start building the capacity to thrive tomorrow. Additional Resources: Listen to wherever you get your podcasts! Watch the Key Takeaways: Start with mindset before moving into change tactics. Values make adaptability easier than rigid beliefs do. Successful leaders stay curious as the workplace evolves. Change becomes dangerous when organizations resist learning. Keep your people close while navigating uncertainty.
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Unlocking the Impact of AI on the Future of Work | Jason Cochran on Unlocked with Skot Waldron
09/01/2026
Unlocking the Impact of AI on the Future of Work | Jason Cochran on Unlocked with Skot Waldron
AI is moving fast, but the leaders who win won’t be the ones who move fastest. They’ll be the ones thoughtful enough to protect what makes work human. Skot Waldron sits down with Jason Cochran to explore what people-first AI adoption actually looks like. Jason challenges leaders to move beyond experimentation for experimentation’s sake and start asking bigger questions: What should AI do? What should it never do? And how do we bring employees into that conversation before fear fills the communication gap? From reskilling and psychological safety to the tension between profitability and sustainability, Skot and Jason unpack why AI strategy is ultimately a people strategy. The message is clear: use AI to augment what humans do best, not outsource human connection itself. Additional Resources: Listen to wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Thoughtful AI adoption starts with people, not technology. Communication reduces fear during rapid workplace transformation. Ask what AI should and should not do. Sustainability matters more than short-term AI-driven profitability. Never outsource emotional intelligence and human connection to AI.
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To Lead is Human | Jason Cochran on Culture Starts Here with Heather Haas and BJ McKay
08/04/2026
To Lead is Human | Jason Cochran on Culture Starts Here with Heather Haas and BJ McKay
AI is changing how work gets done, but it’s also raising the bar for leadership. In this special live episode, hosted by Jason Cochran of People Forward Network, Heather Haas and BJ McKay explore what it means to lead when AI is reshaping the workplace. While much of the work people are paid to do can now be automated, leadership is not one of those things. Together, they unpack what they’re seeing across organizations today, from the growing gap between high-performing leaders and everyone else, to the lack of clarity many teams face around how AI should be used. The conversation centers on a simple idea: Leadership isn’t being replaced. It’s being revealed. And the leaders who bring human connection, empathy, creativity, and critical thinking to their work will shape what comes next. Additional Resources: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Leadership remains deeply human despite AI advancement AI raises expectations, not reduces leadership responsibility Human connection drives meaning, trust, and performance Slowing down improves long-term strategic decision making Self-awareness separates thriving leaders from struggling ones
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Leading in the Gray: Human Wisdom in an AI World with Michael Sneed and John Dugan
07/07/2026
Leading in the Gray: Human Wisdom in an AI World with Michael Sneed and John Dugan
In this live stream episode of Working Forward, Michael Sneed and John Dugan join host Jason Cochran to explore what it means to lead wisely as artificial intelligence reshapes the business landscape. Michael, a 39-year Johnson & Johnson veteran who rose from summer intern to the executive committee, and John, a retired PwC partner with decades of healthcare consulting experience, share what's really happening in boardrooms around AI adoption. Together with Jason, they discuss why human skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and subject matter expertise are becoming more valuable, not less, and how leaders can navigate uncertainty by placing smart bets, leading with culture and values, and staying curious in a rapidly changing world. Additional Resources: Connect with Michael Sneed on LinkedIn: Connect with John Dugan on LinkedIn: Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: AI is reshaping leadership, but human skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and deep expertise are more important than ever. Effective AI strategy starts with culture and values, not technology. Smart leaders place many small bets rather than going all in on any single AI approach. The parallels between the early internet era and today's AI moment offer valuable lessons in patience and intentionality. Leading in uncertain times requires curiosity, humility, and a commitment to listening and learning alongside your team.
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The Entropy Era: AI, Gen Z, and Why Partnership Is the Only Way Forward with Matt Poepsel
06/02/2026
The Entropy Era: AI, Gen Z, and Why Partnership Is the Only Way Forward with Matt Poepsel
In this episode of Working Forward, Jason Cochran sits down with Matt Poepsel, SVP of Workforce and Talent at The Predictive Index and author of multiple books on talent optimization, to explore what happens when AI disruption, generational shifts, and organizational entropy collide. Matt introduces the concept of entropy in the workplace, the natural tendency of systems to descend toward disorder, and explains why fear-driven leadership only accelerates the breakdown. They dig into why 75 percent of Gen Z workers are interested in entrepreneurship, how AI is simultaneously creating opportunity and eroding foundational skills, and why the employer-employee relationship needs a return to mutuality. Matt makes the case that partnership, not power, is the only sustainable path forward, and that leaders who practice active listening, make concessions, and invest in adaptive skills will be the ones who hold their organizations together through the turbulence ahead. Additional Resources: Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Entropy is the silent force pulling organizations apart; without intentional leadership, trust and commitment naturally erode over time. 75 percent of Gen Z workers are interested in entrepreneurship, largely because AI has made it easier than ever to start something on your own. The pendulum of power between employers and employees swings in cycles; leaders who squeeze talent during downturns will pay for it when the market opens back up. AI is not just displacing tasks but eroding the foundational adaptive skills that those tasks used to quietly build, and leaders need to protect that development. Mutuality, the practice of genuine partnership between employers and employees, is the antidote to the fear and self-interest that drive organizational breakdown. The pace of technological change is only accelerating; leaders who bet against AI's capabilities in their industry are making a short-sighted gamble.
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The Psychology of Swag: Quality Signals Value
05/11/2026
The Psychology of Swag: Quality Signals Value
What makes something feel premium the second it lands in your hands? Eric and Crissy unpack the hidden psychology of quality and why people make instant judgments about products based on weight, texture, stitching, materials, and fit-for-purpose design. From cashmere pashminas for executives to fleece-lined scarves for sports fans, Crissy shares story after story showing that quality is not just about price. It is about context, emotion, usability, and how a product makes someone feel in a specific moment. Together, they explore why the wrong “premium” item can fall flat, why cheap bags and apparel can quietly damage your brand, and how thoughtful details can turn a simple giveaway into someone’s favorite thing. If you lead a brand, plan events, or want your merch to actually mean something, this conversation will change how you think about quality, value, and lasting impact. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Quality judgments happen almost instantly through the senses. Weight, texture, seams, and materials shape perceived value. Premium only works when it fits the moment. Cheap bags and apparel can damage brand trust. Favorite products balance quality, utility, and budget.
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Pivoting Through Crisis and Democratizing Photography with Rob Eyler
05/05/2026
Pivoting Through Crisis and Democratizing Photography with Rob Eyler
In this episode of Working Forward, Jason Cochran sits down with Rob Eyler, CEO and co-founder of Capturely, a photography platform that deploys vetted photographers for professional headshots at scale. Rob shares how he co-founded Capturely in 2019, landed LinkedIn and Facebook as early clients, then watched revenue drop to zero when COVID hit. After two difficult years of pivoting into product photography and video, the team finally launched virtual headshots in 2024, allowing anyone with a phone and a window to get studio-quality headshots in minutes with a real photographer controlling their camera remotely. Rob discusses Capturely's vision to democratize photography by building the world's first agentic AI photographer, where human creatives move up the complexity chain rather than getting replaced. He also shares why vision and communication are the two most important tools for leading through change, how routine check-ins at every level prevent teams from filling silence with fear, and why genuine human connection remains the connective tissue of effective teams, even in fully remote environments. Additional Resources: Connect with Rob on LinkedIn: Learn more about Capturely: Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Staying obsessed with your customer can reveal pivots hiding in plain sight, even when survival mode makes them easy to miss. AI will elevate creatives rather than replace them by automating routine tasks and moving human talent up the complexity chain. Vision and communication are the two most critical tools for leading teams through uncertainty and change. Consistency in habits, communication, and personal development will always outperform occasional great moments. Genuine human connection is the connective tissue that holds remote and distributed teams together.
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The Psychology of Swag: The Unboxing Experience
05/04/2026
The Psychology of Swag: The Unboxing Experience
What makes an unboxing moment feel unforgettable and why are so many companies still getting it wrong? 📦 Eric and Crissy unpack the psychology behind anticipation, belonging, curiosity, and emotional connection, and why the moments before someone opens a box can be just as powerful as what is inside. From new hire kits to influencer campaigns, Crissy shares why packaging is never separate from the gift. It is the experience, the signal, and the story all at once. Together, they explore how thoughtful unboxing can build brand love, strengthen employee connection, and create meaningful moments people actually want to share. For leaders looking to elevate onboarding, customer experience, or branded merchandise strategy, this conversation is full of practical insight and fresh perspective. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Anticipation makes unboxing emotionally powerful. Packaging shapes meaning before products are revealed. Curiosity is a powerful driver of action. Personalization strengthens belonging and brand connection. Great unboxing turns moments into earned media.
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The Psychology of Swag: From Transaction to Transformation
04/27/2026
The Psychology of Swag: From Transaction to Transformation
What looks like a simple swag order can quietly spiral into a logistical nightmare that drains time, money, and employee energy. Eric and Crissy unpack why procurement thinking often kills the true potential of merchandise programs. Together, they explore the hidden complexity behind what many leaders treat as a commodity decision. From balloon vendors multiplying across an organization to global gifting programs that unravel without strategic alignment, Crissy reveals how merch can either strengthen culture and brand impact or create internal friction that leaders never see coming. If you are a people first leader trying to balance cost control with meaningful employee experiences, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and help you rethink what it really means to create value through branded merchandise. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Procurement focus on cost can undermine strategic merchandise value Multiple stakeholders shape merchandise outcomes across organizations Vendor partnerships should prioritize insight, not just pricing Logistics complexity increases exponentially in global programs Strategic swag programs enhance culture, efficiency, and brand consistency
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The Psychology of Swag: The $6 Billion Waste Problem
04/20/2026
The Psychology of Swag: The $6 Billion Waste Problem
What if the biggest branding opportunity your company has is quietly ending up in the trash? 🗑️ Eric and Crissy unpack the hidden emotional, financial, and environmental costs behind the billions spent on promotional products each year. Together they challenge the idea that branded merchandise is just a giveaway, reframing it instead as a powerful people-first experience that can shape trust, loyalty, and identity. From cultural missteps that lead to wasted budgets to the surprising science behind creating a product someone actually loves, Crissy shares actionable frameworks leaders can use to turn “brand filler” into meaningful brand equity. If you’ve ever questioned whether swag really matters, this conversation will change how you think about connection, strategy, and the objects that live in people’s everyday lives. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Promotional waste costs companies nearly six billion dollars annually Merchandise should connect emotionally, not just functionally Culture shapes how branded products are received globally Purpose driven merch creates lasting brand equity Measure impact through usage, not just distribution
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The Psychology of Swag: Why We Keep What We Keep
04/13/2026
The Psychology of Swag: Why We Keep What We Keep
That branded mug on your desk might be doing more than holding coffee. It could be shaping memory, emotion, and loyalty in ways most leaders never stop to consider. Eric and Crissy have a fascinating conversation on the psychology behind why some merchandise becomes meaningful while most gets tossed aside. Together, they explore how neuroscience, sensory engagement, and emotional attachment influence whether a simple object turns into a lasting brand connection. From favorite pens and nostalgic mugs to innovative gifting strategies that drive real engagement, Crissy shares practical insights leaders can use to make every branded moment intentional and impactful. If you have ever wondered how to turn everyday touchpoints into powerful relationship builders, this episode will change how you think about swag, storytelling, and the small details that shape culture. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Emotional connection determines whether branded merchandise is remembered Utility increases frequency of use and brand visibility Sensory engagement strengthens memory and loyalty Choice increases perceived ownership and product value Intentional gifting drives measurable engagement and influence
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Building Real AI Value with Wes Bender and Mikey Ames
04/07/2026
Building Real AI Value with Wes Bender and Mikey Ames
In this episode of Working Forward, Jason Cochran sits down with Wes Bender, Head of Business Development at Admired Leadership, and Mikey Ames, Digital Marketing and Social Media Lead at Admired Leadership, to explore what it takes to build and deploy AI that creates genuine value for organizations. Wes and Mikey share how their firm developed Alex, an AI executive leadership coach grounded in 35 years of behavioral leadership research and why most leaders are getting AI wrong. They break down the difference between AI slop and real value, explain how AI actually works at a fundamental level, and make the case that the most important question isn't whether to use AI, but how to use it to make your people better. Additional Resources: Connect with Wes on LinkedIn: Connect with Mikey on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Understanding how AI works, specifically next token prediction, is foundational before any leader can effectively deploy or trust it. Use AI to make people better, not replace them; organizations that take this approach drive higher adoption and more sustainable outcomes. Don't outsource your AI strategy; the values and cultural DNA of your organization need to shape how AI tools are built and trained. Starting a conversation with AI by asking "what's the best way to use you?" and providing rich context dramatically improves the quality of responses. Watch for skills erosion; AI can take over tasks, but leaders must protect the foundational sub-skills those tasks were quietly building. Human moments can't be outsourced; AI is great for preparation and analysis, but the relationships and conversations that build trust must still come from you.
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Introducing The Psychology of Swag: A New Series on Working Forward
04/06/2026
Introducing The Psychology of Swag: A New Series on Working Forward
A cheap pen or a lasting symbol of belonging. In this special kickoff to The Psychology of Swag series on Working Forward, Eric Bransteter sits down with branded merchandise strategist Crissy Manwaring to unpack why the physical artifacts companies send say more about their culture than they realize. Drawing from decades of experience, Crissy reveals how thoughtful merchandise can move relationships from transactional to meaningful. Together, they explore the hidden psychology behind why some branded items become trusted favorites while others end up forgotten or discarded, and how leaders can use intentional gifting to strengthen connection across the employee and customer journey. If you care about building people-first cultures, this conversation reframes swag from a marketing afterthought into a powerful strategy for belonging, loyalty, and long-term impact. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Branded merchandise signals culture, value, and organizational intention. Strategic swag builds belonging across the entire employee journey. Cheap giveaways often create waste instead of lasting brand equity. Physical artifacts strengthen emotional connection more than digital messages. Quality, context, and timing determine perceived value instantly.
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Creating Practical AI Strategies with Beth White
03/03/2026
Creating Practical AI Strategies with Beth White
In this episode of Working Forward, Jason Cochran sits down with Beth White, Founder and CEO of MeBeBot, to discuss how organizations can build practical and responsible AI strategies. Beth shares insights on the urgency of AI adoption, emphasizing that companies must move beyond hesitation to experiment and learn in real time. They explore how AI is already solving tangible business problems, particularly in HR, and the importance of leadership engagement in driving adoption. The conversation highlights the value of identifying clear use cases, measuring ROI, and establishing strong governance to ensure ethical and sustainable AI deployment. Additional Resources: Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: AI adoption is no longer optional; it’s a business imperative. Leaders must actively support and model AI integration to drive momentum. AI is best implemented when aligned with a clear business case and ROI. Small, test-and-learn pilots help build internal confidence and buy-in. Responsible AI requires proactive governance, including policy and oversight.
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Reimagining Company Values for Modern Times With Steve Sorenson and Jordan Lindstrom
02/03/2026
Reimagining Company Values for Modern Times With Steve Sorenson and Jordan Lindstrom
In this episode, Jason Cochran speaks with Steve Sorensen and Jordan Lindstrom from Johnsonville about the company's approach to culture, values, and the integration of artificial intelligence. They discuss the importance of reimagining company values, the process of communicating and embedding these values into the organization, and the role of workshops in fostering cultural change. The conversation also explores how Johnsonville is cautiously implementing AI to enhance productivity while ensuring it aligns with their core values and culture. Additional Resources: Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: Connect with Jordan on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Johnsonville emphasizes the importance of company culture and values. Feedback is viewed as a gift and is integral to their culture. The company has redefined its values to be more memorable and actionable. Workshops are used to engage employees in living the company values. AI is being cautiously integrated to enhance productivity and efficiency.
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Reimagining Marketing in the Age of AI with Tanya and Tony Thorson
01/06/2026
Reimagining Marketing in the Age of AI with Tanya and Tony Thorson
In this conversation, Jason Cochran speaks with Tanya and Tony Thorson about the evolving landscape of marketing psychology, particularly in the context of B2B and B2C interactions. They discuss their book, 'Get Off Your Mask', which emphasizes the importance of personalization, authenticity, and the human connection in marketing. The Thorsons introduce their POISE framework, which focuses on personalization, omnichannel strategies, and emotional intelligence. They also share real-world examples of effective marketing strategies and predict future trends in the industry. Additional Resources: Connect with Tanya on LinkedIn: Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Marketing is evolving with the integration of AI. The human connection is paramount in B2B and B2C. Personalization goes beyond just addressing the consumer by name. Authenticity in marketing builds trust and loyalty. Curiosity drives effective marketing strategies.
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Community Conversation: Leading Well Starts with Living Well
12/17/2025
Community Conversation: Leading Well Starts with Living Well
Episode Description: What if wellness wasn’t just a perk, but a leadership necessity? In this Working Forward Conversations episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory and Jason Cochran flip the script on workplace wellness, diving deep into why wellness is a non-negotiable requirement for modern leadership. From morning meditations and mid-day workouts to setting boundaries and asking for help, they share personal rituals and team-wide practices that fuel sustained capacity and impact. Get a behind-the-scenes of how People Forward Network lives out people-first values, with wellness baked into every level: micro (individual), mezzo (team), and macro (world-changing mission). Whether you’re burned out or building a better culture, this convo offers a fresh, energizing perspective on leading well by living well. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Define wellness clearly for yourself and your organization. Micro habits shape sustained leadership and personal energy. Team rituals protect energy and promote shared accountability. Modeling self-care encourages psychological safety and trust. Wellness supports impact beyond profit.
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Community Conversation: Not Just A Job: Helping People Find Purpose In Their Work
12/10/2025
Community Conversation: Not Just A Job: Helping People Find Purpose In Their Work
Episode Description: How do we move from “just a job” to truly purposeful work in the middle of massive AI-driven disruption? Nikki and Jason tackle this question and unpack sobering data on disengagement, talk candidly about seasons of life and changing priorities, and introduce two practical tools that help people assess where they are and what needs to change: the Life Wheel and the Purpose Gap Matrix. Through real stories from their own team and a generational lens on AI’s impact, they challenge both leaders and individuals to own their 50%, design work that fits who they are today, and stop waiting for employers to define their future. If you’re dreading Mondays, feeling underutilized, or unsure how AI will affect your role, this conversation is a clear, compassionate call to get back in the driver’s seat. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key takeaways Most employees lack purpose; leaders and individuals must change that. Life Wheel clarifies priorities across changing life seasons and roles. Purpose Gap Matrix reveals misalignment between strengths, rewards, and work. AI disruption demands proactive learning, experimentation, and career ownership. Organizations should design flexible cultures that support purposeful work.
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Panel Event: AI Strategy with a Purpose with Beth White & Vince Freeman
12/02/2025
Panel Event: AI Strategy with a Purpose with Beth White & Vince Freeman
In this conversation, AI leaders Beth White and Vince Freeman break down what is actually happening inside companies as they attempt to adopt AI. They explore why so many pilots fall short, how individual employees are often ahead of organizational strategies, and why success depends less on tools and more on mindset, literacy, and culture. They share practical insights on building AI strategy with purpose, including who should be involved, how to identify the right problems to automate, and why HR plays a critical role in workforce transformation. The discussion highlights the importance of empowering people, creating trust, and moving beyond traditional cost metrics to understand where AI creates the most value. Additional Resources: Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: Connect with Vince on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Most AI pilots fail because companies jump in without clear goals or realistic timelines. Smaller, focused use cases with the right tools lead to faster wins. Real impact is in operational efficiency, not just sales or revenue. Adoption improves when employees trust the process and see how AI helps their role. Success should measure productivity, agility, and growth, not just cost savings.
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Community Conversation: Purpose Over Profit - Reimagining Success
11/26/2025
Community Conversation: Purpose Over Profit - Reimagining Success
What if chasing profit is actually killing your team's potential? 🎯 Nikki and Jason unpack one of PeopleForward Network’s most powerful culture codes: Purpose Over Profit. They explore what happens when teams stop measuring success in dollars and start designing work around meaning, strengths, and alignment. From sharing candid team experiences, like skipping 4:30 AM workouts for midday movement guilt-free, to building a results-first, flexibility-driven culture, this episode challenges leaders to rethink how we define and pursue success 🧭. Whether you're climbing the ladder, leading others, or reevaluating your own path, this conversation is packed with stories and strategies to help you shift focus from hustle to heart ❤️. It's not just about how much you earn, it's about how deeply your work matters. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Purpose fuels performance more than profit ever will. Work-life integration drives meaningful work culture. Great leaders connect roles to individual purpose. Team alignment requires clear, shared outcomes. Purpose evolves through life’s changing seasons.
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Real Change, Real Results: Scaling Businesses and People with AI featuring Micah Remley
11/04/2025
Real Change, Real Results: Scaling Businesses and People with AI featuring Micah Remley
this conversation, Micah Remley, CEO of Robin, shares insights on the importance of unplugging from technology, the art and science of building great teams, and the impact of AI on the workplace. He discusses the challenges of remote work, the necessity of embracing adversity, and the role of HR in shaping AI strategies. The conversation emphasizes the value of in-person interactions and the need for balance in hybrid work environments, highlighting the importance of community and connection in achieving personal and professional growth. Additional Resources: Connect with Micah on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Unplugging from technology can lead to better balance and perspective. Building great teams requires intentionality and understanding of situational needs. Remote work has led to lower happiness levels among employees despite higher engagement. Embracing adversity is essential for personal and professional growth. AI is transforming the workplace, but it requires adaptation and learning.
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Community Conversation: Hell Yes Energy: Making bold choices that align with your purpose
10/22/2025
Community Conversation: Hell Yes Energy: Making bold choices that align with your purpose
Ever been stuck in a “meh” moment, unsure if it’s a yes or a no? 😬 Nikki and Jason dive into a fun, fired-up convo about making bold, aligned decisions, personally and professionally. From saying no without guilt to spotting red flags in client partnerships and making hiring choices that truly light up your team, they cover it all. Nikki also shares powerful takeaways from Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” philosophy and the Why.OS framework that keeps the PFN team living and leading with radical intentionality. Tune in if you’re ready to lead, live, and love like every decision is a full-body “Hell Yes!” 💥 Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Know your why to guide clear decisions. Energy alignment outweighs obligation every time. Misaligned clients drain culture and results. Right person, right seat is essential. Intentionality drives meaningful culture and impact.
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Real vs Artificial: The Future of Human Connection With Bob Dalton
10/07/2025
Real vs Artificial: The Future of Human Connection With Bob Dalton
In this episode, Jason Cochran interviews Bob Dalton, a tech founder and community expert, discussing the intersection of technology and community. Bob shares his journey from starting a blanket company to addressing homelessness and emphasizes the importance of localism and community in a tech-driven world. They explore the impact of technology on human connection, the need for community in workplaces, and the future of community-building in the face of AI advancements. Bob advocates for authentic connections and the necessity of community for survival in today's society. Additional Resources: Follow Bob on LinkedIn: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Bob Dalton's journey began with a personal experience that led him to address homelessness. Localism is crucial for societal change and should be prioritized over nationalism and individualism. Technology has created a divide, leading to isolation and addiction to digital platforms. Community is essential for mental health and combating addiction in a tech-driven society. Building authentic connections is vital for personal and professional growth.
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Community Conversation: Augment Not Replace: Building People First Teams with AI
09/24/2025
Community Conversation: Augment Not Replace: Building People First Teams with AI
What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn’t coming for your job, it’s coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. F rom using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they’re showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center 💡 Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: AI is a co-pilot. Use it to enhance, not replace, human work. Start small. Experiment with everyday tasks before scaling. Input matters. Better prompts lead to better, more authentic outputs. Culture comes first. Align AI use with your company’s values. Free up time. Let AI handle the mundane so people can focus on meaningful work.
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The Power Of Us: Belonging and Connection at Work with Amy Bayer
09/02/2025
The Power Of Us: Belonging and Connection at Work with Amy Bayer
In this episode of Working Forward, Amy Bayer shares her personal journey through burnout, career reinvention, and the slow, intentional process of rediscovering purpose. From leading global employer brand initiatives to stepping away in search of alignment, Amy offers a vulnerable look at what it means to listen to your body, trust your instincts, and let go of what no longer serves you. She and Brent discuss how strengths like Empathy and Connectedness guided her path, the power of sabbaticals, and the questions that helped her begin again — on her terms. Additional Resources: Connect with Amy on LinkedIn: Join the PFN Community: Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: - Burnout often begins when we ignore our body’s quiet signals in pursuit of productivity. - Sabbaticals aren’t escapes — they’re opportunities to reflect, heal, and realign. - Letting go of identity tied to work is one of the hardest and most liberating parts of growth. - Strengths like Empathy and Connectedness can serve as both compass and anchor in transition. - Working forward means redefining success on your own terms — slowly, intentionally, and honestly.
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Community Conversation: Impact Over Hours: Shifting the Focus from Time Spent to Results
08/27/2025
Community Conversation: Impact Over Hours: Shifting the Focus from Time Spent to Results
What if your team could get more done in less time? ⏳ In this Community Conversation, Nikki and Jason flip the traditional “hours worked” mindset on its head, championing the power of results over clock-watching. They share why it’s time to ditch the outdated 9–5 mentality, how to unlearn habits that hold us back, and why role clarity + goals + KPIs are the secret trio for driving real impact. 🚀 From experimenting with a four-day work week to harnessing AI for smarter workflows, this episode is packed with practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and a few personal stories that’ll make you rethink your relationship with time. Whether you’re a leader or a team member, you’ll walk away ready to work sharper, not harder, and maybe even earn yourself that extra day off. Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: Measure success by results, not hours worked. Use role clarity, goals, and KPIs to guide focus. Unlearn outdated time-based work habits. Leverage AI to boost efficiency and flexibility. Cut low-value tasks to create space for impact.
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Beyond Automation: The Human Side of AI Disruption With Greg Verdino
08/05/2025
Beyond Automation: The Human Side of AI Disruption With Greg Verdino
In this episode, Greg Verdino joins Jason Cochran to explore what it really means to lead through AI disruption — without losing the human heartbeat of your business. From fear to future-forward thinking, they dive into what leaders often get wrong about automation, and how to focus on what humans do best. Greg shares insights on empathy in the age of AI, the importance of adaptability, and how to create cultures that thrive with change, not in spite of it. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, rethinking your role, or trying to lead a team through transformation, this episode is both a caution and a call to rise. Additional Resources: Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: Join the PFN Community: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: AI won’t replace leaders — but leaders who ignore it might replace themselves. The real threat isn’t the tech itself, but how disconnected we become from the human experience. Adaptability is no longer optional — it’s the defining trait of future-ready organizations. The most successful leaders will blend curiosity, empathy, and clarity in times of disruption. Automation should elevate humanity, not erase it — that starts with culture, not code.
/episode/index/show/workingforward/id/37501380
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Community Conversation: Unlocking Strategic Success Through Monthly Sprints and OKRs
07/23/2025
Community Conversation: Unlocking Strategic Success Through Monthly Sprints and OKRs
What if the secret to staying focused, aligned, and genuinely excited about your goals wasn’t a 20-page annual plan, but a simple monthly sprint? Nikki and Jason pull back the curtain on how PeopleForward Network uses OKRs and monthly sprint goals to spark team momentum. 📈 They demystify what OKRs really are, how sprint goals drive alignment and energy, and why failing fast can actually fuel success. Packed with real-life examples and people-first leadership insights, this episode delivers practical tips and a dose of workplace magic. 💡 Whether you're leading a team or just trying to keep the main thing the main thing, this episode is your playbook for unlocking strategic progress—one sprint at a time. 🏃♀️ Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: OKRs bring focus and clarity to what really matters. Monthly sprints keep goals agile and actionable. Team alignment grows with regular goal check-ins. A safe, feedback-rich culture powers real progress. Agility isn't optional—it's a must for modern teams.
/episode/index/show/workingforward/id/37325940
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The Road Ahead: Owning Your Career Journey With KL Shaw
07/22/2025
The Road Ahead: Owning Your Career Journey With KL Shaw
In this episode, KL Shaw joins Jason Cochran to break down what it really means to own your career journey — especially in today’s uncertain job market. From layoffs to layoffs to leaps of faith, they explore how to shift from fear into action. KL shares powerful coaching insights on getting clear about your purpose, making your impact visible, and building authentic relationships that open real doors — not just resumes. Whether you’re navigating change, burnout, or dreaming about something new, this conversation is your roadmap. Additional Resources: Connect with KL: Watch the Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Take control of your career by stepping into the driver’s seat and leading your own path. Gain clarity by identifying what you love, what you’re great at, and how you want to make an impact. Keep an ongoing impact list to track your accomplishments and showcase your value. Focus on networking, as most job opportunities come through relationships — not online applications. Craft and practice a concise, compelling 90-second story about who you are and what you bring.
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Navigating Uncertainty In Executive Search With Michael Morgan and Scott Himes
07/01/2025
Navigating Uncertainty In Executive Search With Michael Morgan and Scott Himes
In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with Michael Morgan and Scott Himes from Medallion Partners to explore the evolving landscape of executive search and talent acquisition. They discuss the significant uncertainties and changes in the industry, the critical importance of succession planning, and the impact of AI on the workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to new realities, make wise decisions in talent acquisition, and the importance of change management in navigating these challenges. Additional Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: Learn more about PeopleForward Network: Key Takeaways: Uncertainty is a prevailing theme in executive hiring today. The pace of change in the industry is faster than ever. Organizations face a talent crisis due to retiring leaders. Succession planning is often neglected, leading to risks. Cultural fit is essential for new hires to drive change.
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