Nine To Thrive HR
Nine To Thrive HR is a podcast series by HCI Podcasts that provides fresh content on human capital issues. It features leading HR practitioners from Fortune 1000 companies, as well as thought-leaders, authors, and academics. The episodes cover topics such as talent acquisition, analytics, engagement, retention, and development. Each episode is designed to be concise and actionable for busy professionals.
Episodes
CSR Beyond the Check: Engaging the Modern Workforce
Host Cindi Koetzle speaks with Bonterra’s Chief Impact Officer Kenrick Fraser about how organizations are moving beyond legacy CSR models to create social impact programs that better serve employees and nonprofits alike. Their conversation explores why employee participation has plateaued, how the “glacial middle” of management can become an unintended barrier to engagement, and why data helps lea
Key Takeaways About the State of HR from SHRM26
Fresh from the SHRM 2026 Annual Conference, OrgChart CEO, Tom McCarty, breaks down the trends that defined this year's conference: from the rallying cry of "Taking Back HR" and the shift from reactive to strategic, to AI's growing role in the function, and Oprah's challenge to build cultures where people truly feel seen. Plus: what HR leaders should prioritize for the rest of 2026.
HR’s Role as the Organization’s Storyteller
HR has always been at the center of the employee experience, but today's most effective HR leaders are storytellers. They’re shaping the narratives that define culture, drive engagement, and align organizations through change, and, in order to do this, they need the right tools and skillset.
In this episode, we sit down with Kimberlee Henry, CMO of OrgChart, to explore how HR can step into the ro
Strategically Planning for Optimizing AI at Your Organization
Tom McCarty, CEO of OrgChart, recently visited the podcast to speak about the growing importance of strategic workforce planning. We discussed the need for continuous iterations when scenario planning and the importance of having a strong baseline of HR data, but we didn’t get to discuss one area that all HR leaders are considering when planning for the future: AI. In this podcast, we will discuss
A Personal Look at Workforce Planning
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindy Koetzle speaks with OrgChart CEO Tom McCarty about why strategic workforce planning is more important than ever as organizations face rapid growth, transformation, and the growing influence of AI. The conversation explores how leaders can better prepare for the future by defining a clear long-term vision, understanding their current organizational s
HR’s New Balancing Act: Navigating Talent, Technology and Trust in 2026
The workplace is shifting again and HR is caught in the middle. In this episode, we explore isolved’s HR’s New Balancing Act: 7 Trends to Watch in 2026 report and what it reveals about today’s talent market, the rise of AI in HR and the growing importance of trust and clarity.
From rethinking hiring and upskilling to simplifying benefits and protecting employee data, this conversation breaks down
The Road Ahead for 2026: What 1,200 HR Leaders Told Us About Leave and Accommodations
After surveying over 1,000 HR leaders, AbsenceSoft's 2026 State of Leave and Accommodations report revealed that the nature of leave and accommodations requests has fundamentally shifted in ways most compliance professionals aren't prepared for. For the third year running, caseloads continue climbing, but it's not just the volume that's changed. The types of requests employees are making, the tool
From Buzzword to Backbone: How AI Is Transforming Onboarding and Training
Host Cindi Koetzle welcomes David Ly, CEO and Founder of Iveda, for a practical conversation on how AI is moving from buzzword to business-critical tool in HR, learning, and operations. Drawing on more than two decades in AI-powered video and vision technology, David explains why AI is suddenly “everywhere” now—affordable computing power, accessible interfaces, and off-the-shelf solutions—despite
A Mixed Bag Session: Outdated HR, Change Management and Finding Alignment
Host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Robert Hargrove—author and founder of the Harvard Leadership Research Project, Masterful Coaching. Hargrove offers a window into his current experiences of HR practitioners existing in organizations' pre strategic business partner model. A bold reminder to continue the work of capability building to prepare, partner and perform alongside the business to elevate strate
Engagement In, Satisfaction Out: The HR-Customer Connection
On this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Kerry Hecht, Founder and CEO of 10K Humans, to explore the powerful intersection of market research and HR. Drawing on decades in an empathy-driven research field and her experience as a small-business owner, Kerry explains how customer insights translate into people strategies: attracting the right candidates, strengthening engag
Scaling Connection: An HR Field Guide from Anywhere Real Estate
What can HR learn from a company with 350,000 independent agents and 8,000 employees spread across 100+ countries? In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle sits down with Tanya Reu-Narvaez, Chief People Officer at Anywhere Real Estate—the umbrella behind brands including Century 21, Coldwell Banker, and Sotheby’s International Realty. Tanya shares how the organization moved from 92
Inside Payroll Fraud: How SMBs Can Fight Back Without Breaking the Bank
Payroll fraud is evolving and small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are in the crossfire. In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, Steve Lenderman, Head of Fraud Prevention, unpacks the rising threat of payroll fraud and why SMBs are often the easiest targets. With schemes averaging $2,800 in losses per month and going undetected for over a year, the stakes are higher than ever.
From HR to Tech: Sharthok Chakraborty on Reinventing Performance Management with AI
In this episode, we sit down with Sharthok Chakraborty, a former HR practitioner turned tech executive to explore the evolving world of performance management and the growing role of AI in shaping the future of work. We discuss the inspiration behind founding Klaar, the challenges of building tools that solve real workplace problems, and how empathy and human judgment can be preserved in AI-enable
Why More Teams Are Choosing Part-Time Talent, with Intch Founder Yakov Filippenko
Why are fast-moving teams moving away from full-time hires? In this episode, we speak with Yakov Filippenko, founder of Intch, a platform connecting professionals through intent-based, AI-powered networking. Yakov shares how part-time and project-based work is no longer a fallback option — it’s becoming the smart, strategic choice for startups, lean teams, and even big companies looking to stay fl
Matters of the Heart: A Business Case for Well-Being
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Dr. Meesha Dogan, CEO of Cardio Diagnostics, to explore how AI and epigenetics are transforming cardiovascular health in the workplace. They discuss the ripple effects of heart disease on productivity, benefits costs, and team dynamics—and how employers can take a proactive role through technology-driven prevention and wellness st
Fractional, Flexible and Future-Ready: Redesigning Our Workplace
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Carmen Amador, organizational psychologist and community lead at Oyster, about the evolving world of work. They explore the rise of fractional leadership roles, the value of flexibility, and how companies can strategically leverage part-time experts. As a bonus topic, Carmen offers a fresh perspective on women’s well-being and hum
Scaling Smart: HR Support that Grows With You
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle talks with Jessica Wright, Founder and CEO of Wright Workforce Solutions, about redefining what HR looks like for small and growing businesses. Jessica shares her journey from nonprofit leadership to building a thriving minority- and woman-owned firm that offers hands-on HR, payroll, recruiting, and strategy support to small businesses. Toge
Bias, Brains and Better Conversations
In this episode, host Cindi Koetzle is joined by Sara Taylor, Founder of deepSEE Consulting, to explore our competency around unconscious bias and how it shapes our actions, decisions, and workplace conflicts. Sara breaks down the concept of “filters” and shares practical strategies to recognize and shift them. With timely insights on conflict, communication, and polarization, this conversation of
Redefining Talent Acquisition & Employee Experience in the Age of AI
Heidi Barnett, President, Talent Acquisition Solutions at isolved, joins Nine to Thrive HR for a deep dive into the future of hiring and employee experience. Heidi shares how ApplicantPro’s full integration into isolved is helping organizations streamline recruiting, enhance employer branding and create more engaging candidate journeys. She also unpacks the critical balance between AI-powered effi
From Stress to Strength: Building Hardiness in the Workplace
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Dr. Steven Stein, renowned clinical psychologist and founder of Multi-Health Systems (MHS). Steve was an early adopter of the power of emotional intelligence and has since been involved in the conversation about the intersection of emotional intelligence and psychological hardiness in the workplace. As they explore hardiness, the
Equity at Every Level: From the Boardroom to the Breakroom
As big brands pull back on DEI&B, small and midsize businesses are stepping up. In this episode, Opal Wagnac shares why DEI&B is more than a trend — it’s a business necessity. She explores how SMBs are uniquely positioned to lead with inclusion, close the gender gap, and create workplaces where everyone belongs. From allyship to the bottom-line benefits of belonging, this conversation offers real
Inside the 2025 Leave and Accommodations Report: HR’s Role in the Employee Experience
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle is joined by Seth Turner, Founder and Senior Advisor at AbsenceSoft, to explore the growing complexities of leave and accommodation in the workplace. They break down the biggest insights from our 2025 State of Leave and Accommodations Report, based on a survey of 2,400 employees and HR managers. Leave requests are rising, increased demand f
The State of DEI: Backlash, Business and Belonging
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes back Dr. Steve Yacovelli, also known as "The Gay Leadership Dude," for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. With insights backed by data and real-world examples, Steve and Cindi explore the backlash against DEI efforts including potential challenges or
The Sketch Effect: The Power of Visual Communication in HR
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle sits down with William Warren, Founder and CEO of The Sketch Effect, to explore the power of visual communication in the workplace. From graphic recording to video animation, William discusses how HR professionals and business leaders can revolutionize meetings, training, and collaboration with the art of sketching. He shares how these “dood
The PAW Team Effect: Driving Business Growth Through People
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle sits down with Jenni Kovach, Chief People Officer at IGS Energy, and Alissa Durbin, VP of HR, to discuss the evolution of their HR function. They explore how IGS Energy’s "People Are Why" (PAW) team has transformed HR from a reactive function into a true strategic partner, leveraging people analytics, holistic employee well-being initiatives
The Power of Inclusive Language with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim
In this must listen episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle explores the power of inclusive language with linguistic anthropologist Dr. Suzanne Wertheim. Together, they dive into the hidden biases within everyday speech, the impact of language in workplace culture, and practical strategies for HR professionals to foster more inclusive communication. Dr. Wertheim shares insights from her b
2025 Trends: HR, AI, and the Future of Talent Strategy
Link to survey report - https://eightfold.ai/2024-talent-survey/
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Sachit Kamat, Chief Product Officer at Eightfold AI, to discuss the evolving role of HR in business strategy, talent management, and the integration of AI. They explore insights from Eightfold’s recent global survey highlighting challenges such as HR's alignment with
Return to Office, Reskilling and Inclusion: HR Shake-Ups for 2025
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Benjamin McCall, Principal of Focus Consulting, sharing insights from his lifetime career, highlighting the integration of strategic business thinking into Human Resource (HR) practice. The conversation covers key topics such as workforce challenges post-pandemic, the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, and the futur
What Lies Ahead: A Raw Discussion with Sarah Devereaux, HCI Faculty and HR Thought Leader
This episode of Nine to Thrive HR features guest Sarah Devereaux, an HCI faculty, a leadership coach and HR expert, exploring the themes of communication, conflict resolution, and organizational culture. We get real as she discusses the year ahead and a mission to lead with respect and open mindedness, if we should choose to accept it. The discussion highlights the need for clear, respectful conve
From Taboo to Talked About: Menopause and the Workplace
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle discusses menopause in the workplace with guests Cassandra Pratt, CHRO, and Cynthia McEwen, VP of People and DEI at Progyny. The conversation addresses the challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause, including physical, emotional, and professional impacts. The two highlight innovative approaches such as tailored benefits, Emplo
From Hiring to Healing: Best Practices in Workers' Comp
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Kevin Ring, COO and lead workers' compensation analyst at the Institute of WorkComp Professionals. The discussion centers on strategies for developing effective workers' compensation (WC) programs and the critical role of human resources (HR) in fostering a culture of safety and employee well-being. Ring emphasizes the importance
Mission-Driven Talent: Veterans Are Essential to Today’s Workforce
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle speaks with retired Lt. Col. Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz, founder of Vanguard Veteran LLC. This episode is a guide for HR leaders seeking to build inclusive environments that champion veteran talent, strengthening both the workforce and community. Kathy shares her mission to help civilian employers recognize the value of veterans’ unique skill
Enhancing Trust and Security in HR: The Role of Biometrics
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Dr. Mohamed Lazzouni, Chief Technology Officer at Aware, about the integration of biometric technology in HR practices. Dr. Lazzouni provides an accessible breakdown of biometrics, addressing both its applications and ethical considerations, such as consent and privacy. He discusses how biometric data like facial and voice recogni
Conflict and Expectations: Making the Invisible Visible
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Carol Bowser, a workplace conflict expert and former employment lawyer, to discuss the persistent issue of conflict in the workplace. They explore how conflict often stems from unmet expectations and differences in communication styles, exacerbated by generational shifts and workforce turnover. Bowser emphasizes the importance of
Skills, Data, and Diversity: Preparing for the Workforce of Tomorrow
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle engages in an insightful conversation with Jenny Cotie Kangas, Director of Talent Centered Transformation at Eightfold AI. Jenny shares her expertise in HR technology, focusing on the evolution of work and the need for organizations to adopt a skills-based approach to talent management. We cite projections from the World Economic Forum about
Matchmaking: Right Leader, Right Time, Right Place
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Robert Jordan, Co-Founder and Head of Leadership at InterimExecs, and Author of "Right Leader, Right Time." Robert shares his journey from launching the world's first magazine on "online access" to leading a global matchmaker organization for interim executives. He delves into the importance of understanding leadership styles, empha
Balancing Employee Expectation and Experience in a Changing Workforce
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle welcomes back Celia Fleischaker, Chief Marketing Officer at isolved, to discuss the landscape of employee experience as a kryptonite for employee burnout. The discussion delves into the generational shift in workplace expectations, the importance of personalized employee experiences, and the role of leadership in fostering a positive work
A Reminder: The Value of Slowing Down in Fast-Paced Environments
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Tricia Binder, co-founder and president of the global art activation agency, Muros. The conversation delves into Tricia's journey from working in consumer-packaged goods to founding Muros, highlighting her passion for workplace dynamics and diversity of thought. Tricia discusses how her experiences with workplace cultures inspired
Best Practices for Humanizing your HCM Tech
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle engages with Opal Wagnac, Senior VP of Market and Product Strategy at isolved, to discuss the integration of AI in HR practices. A compelling story begins our conversation reaching back to Opal's early journey in the tech industry and her pioneering focus on a retention predictor back in 2012. Opal advocates for the adoption of AI in HR, i
Successfully Ever After: Career Growth through Branding
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle explores the power of professional branding with guest Chellie Phillips, owner of Successfully Ever After. Chellie shares her transformative career journey, highlighting the importance of personal branding, especially after experiencing a career-changing event. She offers practical tips for HR professionals to support employees in developi
ASO, PEOs and PSPs: What's Missing? It’s Time To Fine-Tune Your Offerings
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle speaks with Pragya Gupta, Chief Product Officer at isolved. They discuss the vital roles of ASOs (Administrative Service Organizations), PEOs (Professional Employer Organizations), and PSPs (Payroll Service Providers) in HR today. Pragya shares how isolved's HCM SaaS platform supports these organizations with scalable, AI-integrated HR solut
The Power of Inclusion: Dr. Carol Parker Walsh’s Strategies for Success
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Dr. Carol Parker Walsh, an award-winning executive coach, personal brand strategist, and TEDx speaker. Dr Parker Walsh sets the stage with R. Roosevelt Thomas’ powerful, yet simple, story “The Giraffe and the Elephant”. This jump starts further discussion into inclusive leadership/workplace and its significance in fostering an envi
Talkin’ about an (DEI&B) Evolution with Amy Mosher
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle chats with Amy Mosher, Chief People Officer at isolved, about redefining DEI&B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) “initiatives” while witnessing a greater integration into the fabric of organizational culture. They discuss arming leaders with the why and tools for action, emphasizing its value in employee retention and attractio
Outcome-Oriented Roadmapping: Moving Farther, Faster and with Less Drama
Join host Cindi Koetzle in this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR" as she dives into the topic of outcomes versus outputs with guest expert Janice Fraser. Janice, a partner and senior strategist at Janice Fraser Consulting, brings her extensive experience in Silicon Valley and beyond to explore the philosophy behind valuing outcomes over plans. Together, they discuss how modern businesses can navigate
Cultivating Authentic Leadership: Insights from a Jungian Psychologist
Partnering with expert Dr. Robert Hernandez, a Jungian-trained psychologist, this episode explores the emerging paradigm of ego-self access leadership. Dr. Hernandez shares his journey of marrying Jungian psychology with leadership development, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and emotional intelligence in today's leaders. From uncovering the complexities of the ego to navigating the shi
Pioneering Paths in Diversity and Equity: HCI Spotlights (Faculty) Cristina Costa
In this episode, we dive into the journey of Cristina Costa, founder of Cristina Costa Coaching. Starting with her unconventional path from marketing to teaching abroad, Cristina shares how her global experiences shaped her perspective on work and inclusion. Transitioning into technology, she noticed a lack of diversity and became determined to bridge the gap. A decade ago, Cristina co-founded an
Prioritizing People, Planet, and Profit in HR
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle engages in an enlightening conversation with Alexis Normand, CEO and co-founder of Greenly, a tech company focused on simplifying carbon accounting for businesses. This episode serves as a valuable resource for HR professionals and business leaders looking to navigate the intersection of environmental sustainability and workforce engagemen
Creating Future-Ready Organizations with AI-Driven Talent Optimization
In this episode host Cindi Koetzle dives deep into the intersection of AI, HR, and talent management with Aashir Shroff, Head of Product at Eightfold. Aashir shares insights into how AI is revolutionizing resource management and skill development within organizations. He discusses how Eightfold's AI-powered platform helps organizations optimize resource allocation, retain talent, and foster employ
Transforming Organizations Through Employee Experience
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle engages in a dynamic conversation with Lina Tonk, Chief Experience Officer at isolved. Lina shares her journey of career progression and passion for supporting women in leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and breaking boundaries. The discussion delves into the evolving role of HR, particularly the rise of Chief Experie
Building a Competitive Edge: Employee Experience as a Business Strategy
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle speaks with Celia Fleischaker, Chief Marketing Officer at isolved, to explore the crucial role of employee experience and expectations in today’s business and HR landscapes. Celia shares her journey in tech marketing and her transition to isolved, highlighting the importance of aligning employee experiences with business strategy for growt
Talent Outlook Study: Findings Reveal Untapped Benefits
In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle talks with Dave Barnett, Chief HR and University Relations Officer at DeVry University, framing the conversation around Devry’s 2023 Talent Outlook Study. Barnett shares his journey from a pre-med major to a career in HR, emphasizing the importance of developing others and balancing operational and people leadership. Offering insights for
Grow Beyond Pain: A Conversation with Amrita Subramanian
Cindi welcomes Amrita Subramanian, a former Fortune 500 VP with decades devoted to helping organizations thrive amid crisis. Amrita shares her personal journey from a convent upbringing with selective mutism to becoming a professor teaching post-crisis leadership. Our discussion delves into Amrita's recent study exploring the profound insights of pain leading to growth, trauma, and the language of
Navigating the HR Tech Evolution in 2024
Join host Cindi Koetzle in an insightful episode of 'Nine to Thrive HR' as she engages Pragya Gupta, Chief Product Officer at isolved, in a discussion about the future of HR tech in 2024. We chat about the personalization driven by AI, explore how technology can empower HR practitioners, dispel fears and offering practical strategies to leverage HR tech for strategic growth. This conversation prov
Beyond Software: Augmenting HR Teams for the Future
In this episode, Cindi welcomes Megan Coen, VP of HR services at isolved, to explore the evolving landscape of HR augmentation and outsourcing. Megan brings over 17 years of HR expertise, discussing the shift towards augmentation, its impact on employee experience, and its role in enhancing organizational maturity. They navigate the complexities of compliance, the strategic value of outsourcing, a
Skills Based Talent Planning for Visibility, Opportunity and Inclusion
In this podcast episode, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Jason Cerrato, VP of Market strategy at Eightfold, about skills-based talent planning. This approach differs from traditional planning through its expansion into skills intelligence and its focus on work planned for the future. Jason explains benefits of skills-based planning including improved visibility into workforce skills, expanded candi
Supplement Human Capabilities: AI's Role in HR Transformation
Geoff Webb joins Nine To Thrive to discuss AI as a tool to work in collaboration with human capabilities rather than replacing them. The discussion ranges from leveraging AI to personalizing employee experiences, and correlating efficacy with data input. Despite initial job displacement fears, a survey reveals growing openness among employees toward AI's beneficial impact.
Looking forward, the c
Emotional Regulation: The Real Deal with Jen Hope
In this episode of Nine to Thrive, host Cindi Koetzle engages in an insightful conversation with Jen Hope, a business and leadership coach with a unique focus in startup leadership. Jen highlights the value of small, tangible steps in taking care of oneself and finding that one thing that can create a waterfall effect of well-being. They explore the cues and signs that may indicate the need for em
Unlocking the Power of Workplace Listening
Join host Cindi Koetzle as she delves into the world of workplace listening with global expert Oscar Trimboli on this episode of Nine to Thrive HR. Through listener questions, they explore the art of effective listening. Oscar shares easy to use tips for improving listening skills and achieving a better balance between speaking and listening in conversations. He highlights for us reminders includi
Aspire, Amplify, Adapt: Insights on Culture Success
Join host Cindi Koetzle in this episode of Nine to Thrive HR as she interviews Mark Miller, a seasoned business leader and author, about his latest book, "Culture Rules: The Leader's Guide to Creating the Ultimate Competitive Advantage." Mark discusses the importance of culture in driving organizational performance and shares three key rules for leaders to follow: Aspire, Amplify, and Adapt. He em
Don't Ditch Diversity
With the Supreme Court decision to end affirmative action, there are reports that corporations are following suit and slowing down diversity programs. Coupled with economic uncertainty and companies trying to do more with less, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) programs are under attack. Amy Mosher can explain why that is a bad idea both in the short and long term and how companie
Can’d Aid Partnerships Build Community Impact: The Journeys Group Story
In this episode of the Nine to Thrive HR podcast, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes guests Diana Ralston, Executive Director of Can’d Aid and Bailey Saunders, Community Outreach Manager of the Journeys Group. They discuss how Can'd Aid, a national nonprofit, partners with organizations like Journeys to facilitate various volunteer initiatives that allow employees to give back to their communities in dif
Communication and Engagement Tactics for Benefit Utilization
In this episode of the "Nine to Thrive HR" podcast, host Cindi Koetzle teams up with Gianna Ricciardi, co-founder and practice leader at Vita Assure, a Canadian brokerage firm specializing in employee benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises. They discuss strategies for improving the utilization of employee benefits within organizations. Gianna emphasizes the importance of effective communi
The “Simplifier’s” Guide to Navigating Change
In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, we are joined by change management expert Cyriel Kortleven, known as "The Simplifier." We explore the connection between creativity and change, discussing how every day is filled with opportunities for innovation. Cyriel introduces the concept of "Yes and act," urging listeners to suspend judgment, approach challenges from different perspectives, and take smal
Mental Health Advocacy: The Power of Workplace Support and Benefits
In this episode we meet up with Meg Shea from New York Life Group Benefit Solutions (NYLGBS) to discuss the importance of mental health in the workplace. The podcast highlights the impact of mental health caregiving on work productivity and reveals that almost half of employed adults surveyed have helped a loved one cope with a mental health challenge in the past year. Furthermore, 80% of surveyed
Harnessing the Potential of HR Data
Pragya Gupta, Chief Product Officer at isolved, talks about the significance of HR data and people analytics. Gupta highlights the growing recognition among business leaders on the power of people data in understanding workforce readiness, engagement, DEI&B efforts and much more. Teeing up an isolved people hero (customer) story, we are encouraged to be mindful of “the next best step” in HR solut
Championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into Action
This podcast explores VF Corporation's proactive approach to promoting diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. Lauren Guthrie, VP of Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion showcases the VF commitment to creating a world that is inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible across race, ethnicity, ability, gender, sexual orientation and culture. VF’s intentional focus on action is witnessed through
Uniting Culture, Brand, and Customer Experience: A CMO's Journey at isolved
In this conversation, Lina Tonk, the CMO of isolved, discusses the importance of cultivating relationship with customers, an opportunity enhanced through experiences with isolved's customer roadshows. Lina emphasizes the transformative power of listening to customers and using their feedback to drive internal brand development. Lina's journey within isolved reflects her dedication to serving both
ATLAS Fellows Building Pathways for Young Talent
In this episode of Nine To Thrive HR, Phoebe Anderson, the Executive Director of ATLAS Fellows, shares the program's thoughtful approach to developing the next generation of leaders in finance through internships. She emphasizes the importance of providing exposure and opportunities for talent from under-resourced communities, beyond just a pathway to full-time employment. Anderson shares the succ
Experiential Intelligence (XQ): Mindsets, Abilities and Know-How
“We all have experiential intelligence. It's kind of like our own unique internal fingerprint, because we all have different experiences.” In this podcast, Soren Kaplan and I explore Robert Sternberg’s (former President of American Psychological Association) experiential intelligence (XQ) as an often overlooked form of people intelligence. Soren boils the concept down for us with a simple, unders
Advocating for a Growth Mindset
Joelle LaGuerre, Founder, PRO-YOU and HCI Sr. Faculty says it best when she states “fixed mindset is a prove yourself mindset and growth mindset is an improve yourself mindset”. In this episode, we explore the concept of Dr. David Rock’s growth mindset and its value to the workplace. Valuing a growth mindset encourages failing, innovation, Dan Pink’s concept of “non-commissioned work” and providin
The Magic Wands of an Employee Wellness Benefits Strategy
Our conversation highlights the important organizational values of listening, honesty and transparency and how these characteristics are foundational to an overall employee wellness benefits strategy and offerings. Steven Cardwell, VP of Benefits, Well-Being and Retirement at Premise Health, discusses the critical role of work-life balance in the current labor market and how offering comprehensive
A Roadmap For 2023: People Focused Strategies
Jewel von Kempf, Head of People at Coinme, illuminates a path forward of popular focus areas for HR leaders as they continue to tackle people strategies in a time when organizations are doing more with less. She highlights bright spots such as empowering employee skill expansion, creating inclusive expectations for increased productivity (regardless of setting), thriving with remote teams and com
Building Blocks for a Thriving Well-Being Culture
Dr. Richard Safeer found his way to well-being while treating patients as a practicing physician. He quickly realized his desire to have greater influence and support over healthy habits and positive emotions meant serving in a place where we spend most of our time: The Workplace! Fast forward to 2023, his knowledge, vast experience and, of course, science form his inaugural book, A Cure for the C
The Sacred Craft of Interviewing
Join us for an exciting conversation with Jeffrey Spector, co-founder of Karat, as he takes us on a journey from the foundational cross-country research to the launch of Brilliant Black Minds, a program backed by Serena Williams. Discover how Karat is at the forefront of the paradigm shift in Talent Acquisition, and gain insights into the realities of interviewing and how to build bridges, not bar
From the Frontline: HR Trends of 2023
Explore the findings of a survey of nearly 1,000 full-time employees as isolved Chief Strategy Officer James Norwood shares the surprising and not-so-surprising trends of 2023 – as told by employees. HR leaders will want to listen in to hear more about the important topic of burnout, the future of the Great Resignation, what employees are most upset about and how they are best engaged.
Employer Brand: A Business Critical Discipline
We are beyond a time when employer branding is only meaningful to recruitment and retention. Tiffany Myers, Director of Brand and Creative at Built In, shares with us the awesome impact a holistic brand has on our organizations. She says, “It is the sum total of every interaction we have with our candidates, our employees and our public.” The landscape warrants organizations to ensure ownership/c
Hitting Reset On Burnout In The New Year
Together with Gild Collective co-founders, Rachel Bauer and Kelsey Pytlik, join us for a new year extended podcast with a deep dive into ways to address both the stress and the stressors in your personal and professional lives in order to hit reset on the far-reaching effects of burnout. We talk data, workplace boundaries and get a little personal about this time of year when everyone is either ma
Building Inclusivity: Using Your Influence To Lead
After a serendipitous meeting with his now publisher, Jen , Dr. Steve Yacovelli defined his brand. “The three things everyone will know,” he said, “I’m gay. I am self-described as a dude. And I really like to talk about leadership.” Voila, “The Gay Leadership Dude®” was born. With decades of work in this space, “The Gay Leadership Dude®” shares some simple phraseology for building inclusivity i
How to Move Teams from Isolated to All In
In today’s episode we meet with Ryan Jenkins, a good friend to HCI. Ryan shares with us a deep dive into loneliness and how it impacts our humanness. We talk about some data points, steps and tools related to connection (or lack of connection), and why it's so important for organizations/leader to invest in workforce well-being and make connection a known topic. Ryan shares from his book "Conn
Adult Learning to Support Human Capital Potential
In this podcast we talk all things adult learning. We all have moments in our lives that learning has shaped; whether it be to further our career, guide us to change course, add onto our existing skill set or beliefs or a number of other enhancements. Significant theory surrounding the idea of adult learning was catapulted by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, giving the field an identity. Dr. Graham use
