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- 1166 - 355: HR as a Growth Engine: Why Talent Strategy Is the #1 Lever for Business Performance with DeeAnn Palin
HR isn't just supporting the business. It may be one of the biggest places leaders are leaving growth, profitability, and enterprise value on the table.
Nikki sits down with DeeAnn Palin, founder of ONPOINT Business Solutions, to unpack why people strategy should be treated as business strategy. Drawing from decades of experience coaching CEOs and supporting founder-led and private equity-backed companies, DeeAnn shares how smarter decisions around talent, compensation, benefits, leadership, and retention can uncover millions in hidden value.
From reducing costly turnover to building stronger leadership benches and using AI to strengthen HR decision-making, DeeAnn challenges leaders to stop viewing HR as a cost center and start seeing it as a growth engine. Because a profitable company and a people-first culture aren't competing priorities. The right strategy can create both.
Additional Resources:
Connect with DeeAnn on LinkedIn
Meet with DeeAnn for resources or a conversation
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
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Nikki's Key Takeaways:
People strategy can become your strongest lever for growth. HR should drive business outcomes, not just manage compliance. High turnover quietly drains profitability and enterprise value. Strategic total rewards can attract and retain stronger performers. Great HR partners balance people, performance, growth, and risk.Thu, 10 Sep 2026 - 23min - 1165 - 354: Your Body Knows Before Your Brain Does: Using Your Gut to Make Better Business Decisions with Cassandra Bodzak
Your body may be delivering the answer long before your mind catches up.
Nikki sits down with bestselling author, meditation teacher, and holistic health coach Cassandra Bodzak to explore how body wisdom can shape better leadership and business decisions. Cassandra shares how food, rest, movement, mindfulness, and intuition influence everything from energy and creativity to hiring, partnerships, and team performance.
Together, they unpack the difference between expansion and contraction, why leaders often override critical physical signals, and how creating a stronger personal foundation can improve both workplace culture and business results. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, listen closely, and lead from a place of greater alignment.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Cassandra on LinkedIn
Gain free access to: The Mindful Table Book Bonuses Page - use the code "gut+science" to redeem
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Your body often recognizes misalignment before your mind does. Food directly affects energy, focus, and leadership performance. Expansion and contraction can guide difficult business decisions. Strong leadership begins with a strong wellbeing foundation. Flexible work rhythms help people perform at their best.Thu, 03 Sep 2026 - 42min - 1164 - Addicted to Betterment: Action tips for Growth Mindset. LET'S GROW!!
Growth mindset sounds simple until life, leadership, relationships, and fear put it to the test.
Nikki and David get real about the difference between believing in growth and actually practicing it when failure, criticism, comfort zones, and self-doubt show up. Together, they unpack how fixed mindsets sneak into finances, relationships, leadership, goals, and even the way we talk to ourselves.
From embracing failure as a teacher to surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, Nikki and David share practical ways to sharpen your mindset, lead others toward growth, and stop letting fear of judgment drive the story. This conversation is a powerful reminder that you only get one shot, so you might as well bet on yourself.
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Growth requires leaving your comfort zone. Failure is feedback, not final. Self-talk shapes your growth mindset. Critics reveal where confidence needs strengthening. Supportive people help you level up.Thu, 27 Aug 2026 - 45min - 1163 - 353: Measuring Human Contribution: The Future of Meritocracy at Work with Jacob Chase
Your highest-impact employee may not have the biggest title, loudest voice, or most visible role. So why do traditional performance systems keep overlooking them?
Nikki sits down with Jacob Chase, founder and CEO of The INFIN, to explore a new way to measure human contribution. Jacob explains how decentralized feedback, collective intelligence, and real-time performance data can reveal who is truly creating value across an organization.
They unpack the limitations of traditional reviews, the growing impact of AI on employee performance, and why real meritocracy begins when people are rewarded for the value they create. This conversation challenges people-first leaders to move beyond rigid scorecards, recognize invisible contributions, and build workplaces where serving others drives individual and organizational success.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Jacob on LinkedIn
Reach out for a free pilot implementation at https://www.theinfin.com/
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
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Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Visibility does not equal value. Collective feedback uncovers hidden impact. AI is widening performance gaps. Serving others increases workplace value. Real-time insights personalize development.Thu, 20 Aug 2026 - 30min - 1162 - 352: Who Owns Culture? Developing a Culture Strategy for Continuous Improvement with Brett Hoogeveen
Culture does not change because someone put new values on a wall. It changes when leaders decide who owns it, how it gets measured, and what behaviors get reinforced every single day.
Nikki sits down with Brett Hoogeveen, leadership and culture strategist at BetterCulture, to unpack why culture initiatives often stall and what it really takes to make culture a measurable, intentional business practice.
Brett shares his five-pillar model for continuous culture improvement, why HR cannot carry culture alone, how executive alignment shapes everything, and why core values only matter when they actually change behavior. For people-first leaders ready to turn culture from a buzzword into a competitive advantage, this conversation is a must-listen.
Additional Resources:
Get the free resource at Betterculture.com/gutscience
Connect with Brett on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Culture is attitudes and behaviors, not perks. Healthy culture can and should be measured. HR supports culture, but cannot own it alone. Executive alignment drives sustainable culture change. Core values must shape daily employee behavior.Thu, 13 Aug 2026 - 37min - 1161 - 351: Gamifying Volunteering: Turning Service Into Measurable Motivation at Work with Alex Grande
Service is not just a feel-good initiative. It can be a culture strategy.
Nikki sits down with Alex Grande, co-founder of Recognize, to explore how gamification can turn volunteering, recognition, and employee engagement into experiences people actually want to join. Alex breaks down why many workplace volunteer programs fall flat, how leaders can simplify participation, and why visibility, friendly competition, and shared purpose help teams feel more connected.
From Slack recognition channels to A/B testing engagement programs, this conversation is packed with practical ways to build belonging without overcomplicating the employee experience. For people-first leaders looking to strengthen culture, this one is a clear reminder: start small, make it visible, and let momentum grow.
Additional Resources:
Learn more about Recognize ---> click "Create Your Program" to get to know his team and demo!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Start small before scaling engagement programs. Gamification works when motivation is intentional. Visibility turns participation into cultural momentum. Recognition helps remote teams feel connected. Measure participation, adoption, reach, and consistency.Thu, 06 Aug 2026 - 31min - 1160 - Addicted to Betterment: Look for the Good Even in the Chaos with Katie Donovan
When the world feels divided and overwhelming, how do we lead well?
David sits down with Katie Donovan, CEO of CAMP Digital, for an honest conversation about navigating fear, tension, and uncertainty in real time. No politics. No sides. Just a focus on people.
Katie shares what it's like leading 80 employees through emotional highs and lows, creating space for disagreement without dehumanizing each other, and choosing small acts of care that ripple outward. Together, they explore how grounding yourself, reaching out, and leading with love can transform your corner of the world.
If you've felt unsure how to show up lately, this conversation will remind you that compassion is still the strongest leadership move you can make.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Katie on LinkedIn
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Lead with love, especially in tense moments. Ground yourself before engaging hard conversations. Disagreement requires curiosity, not hostility. Small actions create meaningful community impact. Look for helpers and become one.Thu, 30 Jul 2026 - 44min - 1159 - 350: High Tech, Human Touch: Why Relationships Still Win in the Age of AI with Raina Fryer & Jeff Boucher
Technology can move fast, but trust still moves people.
Nikki sits down with Raina Fryer, Head of Talent Strategy, and Jeff Boucher, Senior Director at Titus Talent Strategies, to explore why relationships still win in the age of AI. Together, they unpack how leaders can use technology to create more capacity without losing the human connection that builds culture, trust, and belonging.
From strategic HR influence to relational business development, Raina and Jeff challenge leaders to stop treating people problems like automation problems. This conversation is a reminder that AI can summarize, organize, and accelerate, but it cannot build trust, spot human potential, or make someone feel truly seen.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Raina on LinkedIn
Learn more about Titus Talent Strategies
Learn more about Titus Strategic Network
Listen to the podcast: Talent Talks
Explore Live Events with Titus
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Technology reveals culture, it does not build it. AI should enhance relationships, not replace them. Human connection is a competitive business advantage. HR must shape strategy, not just support it. Soft skills are now critical leadership skills.Thu, 23 Jul 2026 - 35min - 1158 - 349: Keeping the Human Side of AI Adoption with Regent Cornell
AI is moving fast, but the real leadership test is not the technology. It is whether your culture can keep up without losing trust, clarity, and human connection.
Nikki sits down with Regent Cornell, leadership expert, executive advisor, and longtime Fierce Conversations leader, to unpack what AI is revealing about the way we communicate, manage change, and lead people through uncertainty. Regent shares why AI adoption often fails when organizations skip the human side, from unclear expectations and fear of loss to over-reliance on tools that were never meant to replace real conversations.
Together, Nikki and Regent explore how people-first leaders can create buy-in, preserve authenticity, strengthen accountability, and use AI as a powerful assistant without outsourcing the work that builds culture. This conversation is a timely reminder that innovation should never come at the cost of humanity.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Regent on LinkedIn
Learn more about Fierce Inc.
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
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Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
AI change requires trust, clarity, and human connection. People fear loss more than they fear change. Communication breakdowns quietly derail transformation efforts. Leaders must govern AI before it governs culture. Never outsource accountability, empathy, or tough conversations.Thu, 16 Jul 2026 - 43min - 1157 - 348: The Hidden Cost of High Performance and How Conscious Leaders Reclaim Control with Lo Myrick
High performance has a hidden price tag, and most leaders don't notice it until their body, relationships, or sense of self starts waving the red flag.
Nikki sits down with coach, speaker, and performance expert Lo Myrick to unpack the invisible bottlenecks that keep high achievers stuck. Together, they explore identity, nervous system regulation, boundaries, decision fatigue, people-pleasing, and what it really means to lead from alignment instead of pressure.
Lo brings a powerful blend of science, strategy, and spirituality to help people-first leaders understand that the next level is not just about doing more. It is about becoming the version of yourself who can hold more without losing yourself in the process.
Additional Resources:
Engage in a 90-Minute Performance Breakthrough Session: https://www.lomyrick.com/executive-coaching-consulting
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
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Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Invisible bottlenecks limit even high-performing leaders. Boundaries create respect, not disconnection. Breath is a leadership regulation tool. Alignment outperforms pressure every time. Identity work unlocks sustainable performance.Thu, 09 Jul 2026 - 42min - 1156 - 347: From Partner to CEO: Katherine Coble's Leadership Journey at Borshoff
A leadership baton is being passed, and Katherine Coble is stepping into the CEO role at Borshoff with gratitude, clarity, and a deep commitment to people-first leadership.
Nikki sits down with Katherine to celebrate the legacy of Karen Alter, the evolution of Borshoff, and what it means to steward a company with more than 40 years of history. 💛
Katherine shares how her mindset shifted from account leadership to ownership to CEO, why relationships are at the heart of great communication, and how servant leadership shapes her vision for what comes next. Together, Nikki and Katherine also reflect on the growth of In the Loop, the communication series now expanding into its own podcast on PeopleForward Network.
This conversation is a celebration of legacy, leadership, communication, and the kind of business growth that keeps people at the center.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Katherine on LinkedIn
Learn more about Borshoff
Listen to In the Loop with Katherine Coble
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Leadership is stewardship, not ownership alone. Relationships shape stronger communication and better business. Succession works best with intentional transition time. Healthy organizations create space for bold thinking. Great leaders keep learning from everyone.Thu, 25 Jun 2026 - 40min - 1155 - Addicted to Betterment: Chase Dreams: The Obstacle is the Way!
The dream is calling, but so are the doubts, the expenses, the uncertainty, and maybe even the outhouse. Nikki and David get real about chasing a big life vision while standing right in the messy middle of it, unpacking what it means to believe that "the obstacle is the way." From vision boards and growth mindset to panic moments and perspective shifts, they share how reconnecting to your deeper why can turn fear into fuel. 🧡
This conversation is a powerful reminder for people-first leaders and dreamers alike: if you can see it, feel it, and stay connected to the meaning behind it, you can keep climbing through the hard parts.
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Your vision must be stronger than the obstacle. Big dreams require daily mindset practice. Fear fades when you reconnect to your why. Perspective can shrink even the biggest challenges. Dreams need action, not just imagination.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 - 28min - 1154 - In the Loop: Leading with Transparency and Trust with Angela White
The best donor stories are not always wrapped in sunshine, rainbows, and unicorns. Sometimes, the real power comes from telling the truth about what worked, what didn't, and what still needs to change.
Katherine sits down with Angela White, President and CEO of Eskenazi Health Foundation, to explore how transparent communication, whole-person care, and authentic leadership can move people from awareness to action. Angela shares how Eskenazi is addressing social drivers of health through programs like Food is Medicine, community-based care, mental health support, and data-informed philanthropy.
From donor storytelling to self-awareness as a leader, Angela reminds us that people-first communication starts with listening, honesty, and the courage to be yourself. This conversation is a powerful reminder that when leaders communicate with both heart and clarity, they build trust that lasts.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Angela on LinkedIn
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Listen first, then lead with clarity. Donors give from head and heart. Transparency builds deeper trust with stakeholders. Self-care creates sustainable leadership stamina. Authentic leaders cannot fake connection.Tue, 16 Jun 2026 - 36min - 1153 - 346: From a Dream to a Movement: How AltHR Is Redefining HR Community with Mindy Moncoop & Marnie Robbins
The old HR playbook is cracking, and Mindy Honcoop and Marnie Robbins are here to build something more human in its place.
Nikki sits down with Mindy and Marnie to explore the origin of altHR, a people-first community and movement designed for HR leaders who are tired of doing the work alone.
Together, they unpack what it means to evolve the future of HR through mindset shifts, friendship, co-creation, and the courage to ask for help. From launching The Hive to building the SIGNAL framework, Mindy and Marnie share how human-centered design can help people leaders move from isolation and overwhelm into possibility, experimentation, and meaningful connection.
This conversation is a reminder that HR professionals were never meant to carry culture, change, and people strategy alone. The future of work will not be built by perfect playbooks, but by curious leaders willing to rethink, collaborate, and evolve together.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Mindy on LinkedIn
Connect with Marnie on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
HR leaders need community, not more isolation. Mindset shifts create new possibilities for HR. Friendship can be a powerful business foundation. Human-centered design helps solve real business problems. The future of HR requires co-creation and curiosity.Thu, 11 Jun 2026 - 37min - 1152 - 345: The Science of Self-Talk and Its Impact on Leadership with Dr. Suzy Burke
The voice in your head may be leading your team more than you realize.
Nikki sits down with Dr. Suzy Burke, leadership expert, speaker, author, and psychologist, to unpack the science of self-talk and how our internal dialogue shapes the way we lead. From overthinking and self-doubt to the "monster" that shows up when we step outside our comfort zones, Dr. Suzy explains why leaders must learn to catch, confront, and change the stories they tell themselves. 🧠
Together, Nikki and Dr. Suzy explore the real cost of negative self-talk, the neuroscience behind fight, flight, and freeze, and practical tools like the DIG folder and the three Cs to help leaders shift from fear to grounded confidence. This conversation is a powerful reminder that when we learn to lead ourselves better, we create healthier teams, stronger cultures, and better outcomes for everyone.
Additional Resources:
Get the book "Headamentals" now!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Self-talk quietly shapes leadership effectiveness. Overthinking delays action and erodes confidence. Leaders' emotions spread through their teams. Catch, confront, and change negative narratives. Confident self-leadership creates healthier team culture.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 - 22min - 1151 - Addicted to Betterment: What Would Love Do: Building Conscious Habits
Ever found yourself mid-argument thinking, "Why am I so worked up right now?" What if the real culprit… is your ego?
David is joined by Amy Woodall for a conversation that feels more like a mirror than a mic. Together, they pull back the curtain on ego, and how it sneaks into your relationships, hijacks your reactions, and disguises itself as righteousness.
Amy shows us where ego lurks and how asking one simple question, "What would love do?", can change the tone, the outcome, and maybe even the world.
Expect to feel called out, cracked open, and challenged to stop forwarding that podcast to "someone who really needs to hear it"… and instead, take it personally. This is your invitation to check your ego, rewire your reactions, and step into leadership with radical love, not loud opinions. ❤️
Additional Resources:
Subscribe to Conscious Habit on YouTube!
Join the "Conscious Conversations" Community!
Sign Up for the Conscious Habit Newsletter
Learn more about Conscious Habit
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Ego reacts; love responds with curiosity and grace. Judging others mirrors unhealed parts of ourselves. Agreement isn't required for acceptance and compassion. Triggered? That's your ego, not your highest self. Love is not weak. It's the ultimate active force.Thu, 28 May 2026 - 48min - 1150 - Replay: Prioritize and Level Up Emotional Fitness with Dr. Paul Zak
Emotional fitness is not a soft skill. It is the leadership muscle your people feel every day.
Nikki sits down with neuroscientist, author, and speaker Dr. Paul Zak to unpack how leaders can build emotional fitness, create psychologically safe workplaces, and design environments people actually want to be part of. 🧠
Paul shares why being present, connected, and socially energized matters more than ever, especially in a world where talent is scarce and workplace relationships directly impact life beyond the office. From "no yelling at work" to building spaces that feel meaningful, satisfying, and human, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you show up, how your team connects, and what it really means to lead people well.
Additional Resources:
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Emotional fitness builds resilience, presence, and better leadership. Psychological safety starts with how leaders show up. Quality relationships extend value, fulfillment, and wellbeing. Work energy follows people home every day. Great workplaces make connection easy and intentional.Thu, 21 May 2026 - 29min - 1149 - In the Loop: Why Great Leaders Start by Listening with Greg Ballard
Leadership is not loudest when it gives orders. Sometimes, it sounds like a mayor sitting in a neighborhood meeting, listening long enough to hear what the city actually needs.
Katherine sits down with Greg Ballard, author, businessman, former Marine, and the 48th mayor of Indianapolis, to explore the leadership habits that shaped his journey from the Marine Corps to city hall. Greg shares why clarity, collaboration, sincerity, and listening are not just communication skills, they are the foundation of trust.
From grassroots campaigning to leading a major metropolitan city, Greg offers a grounded reminder for every people-first leader: you do not need to have every answer, but you do need the humility to listen, the courage to decide, and the consistency to do the right thing for the right reasons.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Leadership is influence, not authority. Listening builds credibility before words do. Strong teams challenge your thinking. Start with yes, then solve. Trust grows through consistency and sincerity.Tue, 19 May 2026 - 31min - 1148 - 344: How to Build a Growth Function That Lasts with Breanne Byrne
What happens when marketing stops chasing tactics and starts building systems that actually scale?
Nikki sits down with CMO and growth leader Breanne Byrne to unpack what it really takes to build a marketing and growth function that evolves with your business and your people.
Breanne shares her five-phase department maturity model, from reactive to intelligent, and explains why sustainable growth is never just about channels, campaigns, or tech stacks. It is about clarity, customer experience, role alignment, and servant leadership that helps people do their best work. Along the way, Nikki and Breanne explore AI, change management, team strengths, and why growth that lasts always starts with humans.
Whether you are leading a scrappy team, scaling a department, or trying to make change feel more meaningful for your people, this episode will challenge you to think bigger, lead better, and grow with intention.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Breanne on LinkedIn
Learn more about Syntari® AI
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Scalable growth starts with strong foundations, not random tactics. Clear goals create alignment across teams and departments. AI works best as a human amplifier, not replacement. Servant leadership unlocks stronger teams and better performance. Sustainable marketing requires constant iteration, learning, and adaptation.Thu, 14 May 2026 - 29min - 1147 - 343: Connection First, Culture Follows with Dr. Iain Smith
What happens when workplace culture stops being a program and starts becoming a pattern of connection? Nikki sits down with Dr. Iain Smith, Head of Behavioral Science at Sunny, to unpack why connection is not just a nice-to-have at work, but the foundation for meaningful, sustainable performance.
Together, they explore why culture is better understood through behavior, rhythms, and relationships than through buzzwords alone. Dr. Smith shares fresh insights on digital overload, team vibrancy, Gen Z loneliness at work, and why leaders need to stop relying on more tools and start designing better ways for people to connect, contribute, and thrive.
From rituals and team energy to the realities of hybrid work, this conversation is a powerful reminder that when connection comes first, culture follows. If you care about people-first leadership and building workplaces that actually work for humans, this one will stay with you.
Additional Resources:
Learn more about Sunny
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Culture reflects behaviors, not abstract values. Connection is designed through rhythms and rituals. Digital overload weakens depth, not communication frequency. Team energy is everyone's shared responsibility. Young leaders need support, practice, and real connection.Thu, 07 May 2026 - 28min - 1146 - Addicted to Betterment: Protect Your Time with Nikki and David Gregory
Ever felt like your calendar is running your life instead of the other way around?
Nikki and David tackle the ultimate challenge: protecting your time before it slips away. They get real about the pain of saying "yes" when you should've said "hell no," the stress of back-to-back meetings that could've been emails, and the guilt of letting your true priorities, family, health, and dreams, slip through the cracks.
But it's not all pain stories. They share how to get back in the driver's seat of your days, from using the Life Wheel to create clarity, to building systems that actually support you, to confidently saying "no" without apology.
If you're ready to stop coasting through your schedule and start thriving in it, this conversation is your reminder that time is your most precious commodity… make it count. ⏳
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Time is our most valuable resource. Clear priorities come from regular reflection. Strong systems protect energy and focus. Saying "no" keeps you in control. Auditing your calendar shows real priorities.Thu, 23 Apr 2026 - 27min - 1145 - In the Loop: Building a Culture that Connects and Inspires with Courtney Roberts
What does it really mean to lead with purpose when lives, communities, and futures are on the line? Katherine sits down with Courtney Roberts, President and CEO of the Riley Children's Foundation, to explore how storytelling, empathy, and bold vision can transform leadership into a force for lasting impact.
Courtney shares her journey from small town curiosity and global health equity work to leading one of Indiana's most beloved philanthropic organizations. Together, she and Katherine unpack the powerful role leaders play as chief storytellers, bridging mission and meaning while building cultures rooted in trust, innovation, and inclusivity.
From engaging the next generation of donors to navigating hard conversations with authenticity and clarity, this episode is a masterclass in people first leadership. If you are striving to connect purpose with performance and lead with both heart and strategy, this conversation will leave you energized and ready to act.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Courtney on LinkedIn
Learn more about Riley Children's Foundation
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Purpose driven leadership fuels meaningful community impact Storytelling connects mission, donors, and organizational culture Values alignment strengthens internal and external communication Flex communication styles to meet audience needs Access and equity can guide lifelong leadership decisionsTue, 21 Apr 2026 - 30min - 1144 - 342: One and Only: Owning Your Life Story with Cristian Cibils Bernardes
Your story is not just your past. It is your leadership currency.
Nikki sits down with Cristian Cibils Bernardes, founder and CEO of Autograph, to explore the powerful connection between storytelling, identity, and meaningful work. Cristian shares his journey from Paraguay to Stanford, Google, and ultimately entrepreneurship, revealing how a personal quest to understand his own life narrative became a mission to help others preserve and leverage theirs.
Together, Nikki and Cristian unpack why owning your story can deepen human connection, strengthen leadership influence, and shape the future of work in an AI-driven world. From family legacy to workplace belonging, this conversation will challenge you to reflect on what you stand for and how your experiences can inspire those you lead. 💡
Additional Resources:
Connect with Cristian on LinkedIn
Learn more about Autograph
Listen to Cristian's podcast: Rabbit Hole Research
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Your life story shapes leadership authenticity and connection AI can preserve wisdom across generations and workplaces Self-reflection builds clarity, confidence, and meaningful influence Storytelling strengthens relational business and culture building Leaders who share journeys inspire deeper trust and engagementThu, 16 Apr 2026 - 19min - 1143 - 341: Using Coaching to Advance Leaders and Organizations with Kate Karre
Leadership today moves fast. New technology, new generations, and constant change can leave leaders chasing the next shiny object. But leadership coach Kate Karre believes the real advantage isn't having all the answers, it's learning how to ask the right questions.
Nikki sits down with Kate to explore how coaching helps leaders build self-awareness, challenge limiting beliefs, and become truly future-ready. They share personal coaching experiences, breakthrough moments with clients, and why the next generation of employees expects growth and development from day one.
If you want to scale your leadership impact, strengthen engagement, and unlock the potential already inside your people, this conversation will reshape how you think about leadership and coaching. ✨
Additional Resources:
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Coaching helps leaders uncover answers already within themselves Future-ready leadership requires adaptability and continuous learning Limiting beliefs block growth more than lack of skill Self-awareness drives stronger leadership and employee engagement Coaching empowers employees to own their developmentThu, 09 Apr 2026 - 34min - 1142 - 340: The Science of Swag: Creating Brand Experiences That Stick with Crissy Manwaring
What makes a simple branded mug, sweatshirt, or handwritten note unforgettable? Nikki welcomes promotional strategy expert Crissy Manwaring for a fascinating conversation on the deeper psychology behind swag and why meaningful brand experiences matter more than ever.
Together, Nikki and Crissy unpack the science of sensory triggers, emotional connection, and thoughtful gifting, revealing how leaders can turn everyday items into powerful cultural touchpoints. From onboarding moments to milestone celebrations, they explore how intentional brand artifacts can strengthen human connection, reinforce belonging, and elevate the employee and client journey.
If you lead people, build culture, or care about making your brand truly felt not just seen, this conversation will shift how you think about impact. Get ready to rethink swag as a strategic tool for meaningful work and meaningful lives. 💡
Additional Resources:
Learn how to build your strategy to swag!
Connect with Crissy on LinkedIn
Learn more about Robertson Marketing
Listen to Crissy's series on Working Forward, wherever you get your podcasts!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Tangible brand experiences deepen emotional connection and memory. Thoughtful swag supports culture, belonging, and retention. Sensory triggers influence perception, loyalty, and brand recall. Personalization transforms gifts into meaningful relationship anchors. Strategic merchandise enhances every stage of employee journey.Thu, 02 Apr 2026 - 36min - 1141 - 339: Cultures of Caring: Turning Grief into a Leadership Growth Opportunity with Ashley Jones
Grief doesn't clock out when we clock in.
Nikki sits down with Ashley Jones, founder of Memento Foundation and grief and empathy consultant, to explore what happens when loss walks into the workplace. After navigating the unimaginable loss of her daughter, Ashley turned her pain into purpose, helping organizations lead through grief with courage, care, and emotional intelligence.
Together, they unpack what most leaders get wrong about grief at work, why empathy is not optional in modern leadership, and how cultures of caring are built long before crisis hits. This conversation challenges outdated beliefs about productivity, exposes the real cost of emotional avoidance, and offers a new leadership standard rooted in love, trust, and psychological safety. 💛
If you want to retain top talent, strengthen trust, and lead whole humans instead of job titles, this episode will change the way you show up.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn
Get Ashley's book: "When You Can't See the Light"
Learn more about Momento Foundation
Learn more about Bereave
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Grief has no timeline or linear stages. Empathy is leadership strength, not softness. Culture of caring must start before crisis. Unsupported grief drives turnover and disengagement. Love, not fear, builds workplace trust.Thu, 26 Mar 2026 - 40min - 1140 - 338: Align Humans and Technology or You'll Be Out of Business in 10 Years with Ferry Hoes
If your company treats technology like the hero and people like the afterthought, it may not survive the next decade.
Nikki sits down with Ferry Hoes, founder of Brand Humanizing, to challenge the way leaders think about AI, automation, and innovation. Ferry shares a bold warning: organizations that fail to align humans and technology will quietly lose their people and their customers. Through personal stories of watching a chatbot replace real connection and sink a business, he unpacks why meaningful work and human trust still drive performance.
From task forces to tech integration mistakes to companies that get it right, this conversation is a masterclass for people-first leaders who want innovation that supports humans, not sidelines them. If you care about culture, customer loyalty, and long-term growth, this one will shift your lens. 💡
Additional Resources:
Connect with Ferry on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Technology must support people, not replace them. Start with problems, not shiny tech solutions. Human connection drives loyalty and long-term growth. Involve frontline employees in tech decisions early. Innovation fails when leaders ignore emotional needs.Thu, 19 Mar 2026 - 30min - 1139 - In the Loop: What Your Digital Body Language Communicates
Have you ever unraveled over a one word email? Or spiraled because someone "saw" your message but didn't respond?
Katherine dives into the invisible signals shaping today's workplace: digital body language. Inspired by Erica Dhawan's work and Katherine's real world leadership experience, this conversation explores how response time, punctuation, brevity, silence, and even channel choice are constantly communicating on your behalf. In a world where 70% of communication is virtual, leaders are sending signals about trust, respect, urgency, and inclusion whether they mean to or not.
If leadership is relational, then digital communication cannot be transactional. Katherine unpacks practical shifts people-first leaders can make immediately to reduce anxiety, build clarity, and strengthen connection. Because the impact you make through a screen is still very real and it is shaping your culture every single day.
Additional Resources:
Read "Digital Body Language" by Erica Dhawan
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Response time communicates priority, trust, and respect. Brevity without warmth creates digital anxiety. Channel choice signals leadership intention. Clarity in writing is modern workplace empathy. Silence always sends a message.Tue, 17 Mar 2026 - 24min - 1138 - Addicted to Betterment: Planting Onions Expecting Strawberries? Lessons from the Bamboo Tree.
The results you're seeing today are a direct reflection of seeds you planted long ago, and if that hits a nerve, this episode is for you.
Nikki and David are getting real about the wild truth that what you plant is what you get. From the legendary patience it takes to grow a Chinese bamboo tree to the behind-the-scenes grind of podcasting and showing up as your best self each day, this convo hits deep.
They break down how to audit your daily "seeds," why choosing your crop before planting is the move, how AI is just like soil, and why protecting your energy is non-negotiable. Oh, and if you've ever doubted yourself during the slow seasons, this is your sign to keep going. The bamboo might just be about to shoot up.
Betterment takes time, but with intention, patience, and a little self-awareness, your growth is coming 🎋
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
You get what you plant. Your actions and habits shape your outcomes. Growth takes time. Like the bamboo tree, results often come after long unseen effort. Check your inputs. Audit your daily choices to align with your desired future. Protect your energy. Be mindful of who and what you let into your environment. Small wins matter. Acknowledge them to stay motivated.Thu, 12 Mar 2026 - 31min - 1137 - 337: Your Vibration Is Your Currency with Carrie Moore
There's a level of leadership most people never access, not because it's hidden, but because it requires going inward first.
Nikki sits down with transformational leadership expert Carrie Moore to explore a powerful truth: your vibration is your currency. Drawing from neuroscience, quantum mechanics, and executive leadership, Carrie explains how the energy you bring into a room directly impacts trust, culture, and results.
This conversation goes beyond performance tactics. It dives into identity, influence over execution, and why transformation is the real work of leadership. Nikki and Carrie unpack subconscious rewiring, sovereignty, and the idea that the relationship you have with yourself is the only relationship you give the world.
If you're ready to evolve from high-performing doer to future-ready leader, this one will shift how you think, lead, and show up.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Carrie on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Your vibration shapes trust, culture, and performance. Slow down to access awareness and influence. Transformation is leadership's true purpose. Influence scales impact more than execution. Identity work drives measurable business outcomes.Thu, 05 Mar 2026 - 50min - 1136 - Addicted to Betterment: Courage Builders, Not Courage Killers
What if courage wasn't something you either had or didn't, but something you could build?
Nikki and David open up about the real journey of courage, not as a Hollywood moment, but as a daily practice. From David's vulnerability in asking for help after a major injury, to Nikki's story of taking the stage during the emotional turbulence of divorce, they strip courage down to its core. The duo introduces a four-step framework rooted in faith, values, support systems, and taking action, even when it's scary.
This episode is a call to action for anyone stuck in self-doubt or fear of failure. Whether you're facing a personal crossroads or seeking to lead others with more heart, you'll walk away inspired to become a courage builder, not a courage killer.
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Courage starts with knowing you're not alone. Core values anchor brave decisions and actions. Borrowed belief powers you through tough times. Trying new things builds your courage muscle. Be a courage builder, not a courage killer.Thu, 26 Feb 2026 - 38min - 1135 - 336: The ABCs of Leadership: Align. Believe. Choose. with JM Ryerson
What happens when clarity, belief, and intention collide? You get a leadership framework so simple it's unforgettable, literally, it's the ABCs.
Nikki is joined by JM Ryerson, coach, speaker, and founder of Let's Go Win, to unpack the "ABCs" of transformational leadership: Align, Believe, and Choose. Together, they explore how alignment creates a cultural backbone, belief fuels personal and professional breakthroughs, and conscious choices keep teams moving forward, even in tough times.
From the power of simplicity and the danger of misaligned values to 4-day work weeks, this episode is full of actionable insights and real-life stories. Whether you're reworking your company values or reigniting your own leadership flame, this one will challenge you to upgrade, not change.
Additional Resources:
Listen to Let's Go Win wherever you get your podcasts!
Learn more about Let's Go Win
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Alignment begins with clarity around core values and behavior. Belief shapes outcomes more than strategy ever could. Simplicity drives consistency, especially during change. Leaders must choose how they show up daily. Upgrade mindsets before expecting performance transformation.Thu, 19 Feb 2026 - 43min - 1134 - In the Loop: Leadership that Listens with Ashima Kapur
What if HR's true power isn't just policies and programs, but its position as a strategic driver of culture and communication?
Katherine sits down with Ashima Kapur, Chief People Officer at Allied Solutions, to explore the leadership mindsets and behaviors that drive sustainable growth. From growing Allied from 500 to nearly 2,000 employees to building an HR function that earns a seat at the table, Ashima shares a people-first blueprint for organizational success.
She reveals how HR and communication go hand-in-hand to shape culture, why transparency and authenticity aren't optional anymore, and how leaders can empower teams by being real, clear, and consistent.
Ashima's leadership philosophy is direct, human-centered, and refreshingly honest, exactly what's needed in today's evolving workplaces. Whether you're building a talent strategy or redefining your leadership style, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom for leaders who care about their people and want to lead with intention.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Ashima on LinkedIn
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
HR must earn its seat through business understanding Culture is defined by consistent leadership behavior Communication must be authentic, transparent, and repeated Right person, right seat, right support equals success Growth demands people strategy aligned with business goalsTue, 17 Feb 2026 - 32min - 1133 - 335: Leading with Honesty and Care: Empowerment in Action with Steve Sorenson
What if the real secret to building leaders, not followers, was simply honesty paired with care?
Nikki sits down with Steve Sorenson, Senior Director Learning and Culture at Johnsonville, to explore a leadership model rooted in humble candor, empowerment, and intentional coaching. Known for replacing "managers" with "coaches" and fostering autonomy through frameworks like the ABC Decision Method and the Simon Principle, Steve walks the talk when it comes to building trust, elevating teams, and modeling people-first leadership.
This conversation is packed with tangible tools, soul-shifting moments, and the kind of clarity that challenges old norms and makes culture come alive. Whether you're trying to turn the ship or sharpen your edge, this one will shift how you lead.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn
Learn more about Johnsonville
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Empowerment grows when autonomy and clarity align. Humble candor blends honesty with deep care. Coaches build leaders, not followers. Shared language strengthens trust and culture. Model the behavior you want repeated.Thu, 12 Feb 2026 - 41min - 1132 - Work Doesn't Work (Anymore): Why Relationships Matter Most with Laurie Cozart
What if the secret to better leadership isn't about doing more, but being more human?
In this episode of Work Doesn't Work (Anymore), Dr. Ryan Darby sits down with leadership expert and founder of Brain Squared Leadership Solutions, Laurie Cozart. With over 10,000 individuals and 500 teams coached, Laurie brings deep insights on how leaders can thrive in today's complex and rapidly changing workplace.
Together, they unpack why hero leadership is outdated, why clarity is the most underrated leadership skill, and how vulnerability and relationship-building are actually strategic advantages. Laurie shares stories from her own journey and introduces practical, neuroscience-backed tools for fostering resilient leadership, trust-filled teams, and simplified work cultures that don't burn people out.
If you're tired of the noise and looking to build magic teams that feel good and perform better, this conversation is your playbook.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn
Followed Brain Squared Leadership Solutions on LinkedIn
Learn more about Brain Squared Leadership Solutions
Connect with Dr. Ryan Darby for continued leadership insights
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Hero leadership quietly exhausts everyone Clarity is kindness and performance fuel Relationships make hard tasks feel easy Vulnerability builds trust, not weakness Emotional safety drives resilience and engagementTue, 10 Feb 2026 - 36min - 1131 - 334: Lead Dads, Working Moms, and the Future of Family-Friendly Workplaces with Paul Sullivan
What if the most overlooked group in your workplace holds the key to retention, loyalty, and a truly people-first culture?
Nikki is joined by Paul Sullivan, former New York Times columnist and founder of The Company of Dads. Paul shares the deeply personal story behind his mission to elevate and support "lead dads," the primary caregivers often overlooked in corporate benefit structures. From the eye-opening stats on caregiving to stories of companies getting it painfully wrong, Paul challenges leaders to rethink how they message and activate the benefits they already offer.
This conversation is a wake-up call and a roadmap for anyone serious about creating workplaces that work for families. If your culture says "family first," does your messaging and manager training back it up?
Additional Resources:
Learn more about The Company of Dads
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Lead dads are often invisible but incredibly impactful. Messaging matters as much as your benefits package. Managers must walk the talk on flexibility. Small changes create big impacts for caregivers. Transparency attracts and retains the right people.Thu, 05 Feb 2026 - 38min - 1130 - Addicted to Betterment: Problems? Are We the Problem?
What if the biggest barrier to the outcomes we crave... is us?
Nikki and David Gregory pull no punches as they unpack how we often create the very problems we're frustrated by. From a disastrous family lunch to missed health goals and tense business meetings, they share vulnerable stories that hit close to home. This episode isn't about blame, but about the power to shift our mindset, manifest better outcomes, and pivot with purpose when things go sideways.
With practical tools and honest reflection, this conversation challenges us all to stop playing checkers with our lives and start playing chess. Because betterment begins when we own our part and choose better, one move at a time.
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Mindset shapes every outcome we experience We often manifest the problems we complain about Clear intention + action = new results Resilience matters when things derail Celebrate small wins to fuel momentumThu, 29 Jan 2026 - 32min - 1129 - Introducing Work Doesn't Work (Anymore): A New Series on Gut + Science
What if the real reason workplace engagement hasn't budged in 30 years is because we've made leadership too complicated?
In this kickoff to a powerful new content partnership, Nikki introduces Dr. Ryan Darby, organizational psychologist, leadership simplifier, and founder of WorkStrong. Ryan's not here for hype. He's here for habits. Drawing from his deep experience with 34Strong and years of leading large-scale engagement work, Ryan shares why most leadership development fails, and how a simpler, more actionable approach can finally move the needle.
You'll hear the backstory of Work Strong's creation, rooted in real gaps spotted inside thriving companies. You'll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Work Doesn't Work (Anymore)" series and why Ryan believes the future of leadership lies in emotional regulation, discipline, and better listening, not more content.
This one's a rally cry for people-first leaders ready to stop admiring the problem and start doing what actually works.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Dr. Ryan Darby on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Leadership is a skill, not a knowledge dump. Engagement won't shift without habit-driven systems. Listening is thinking. Learn how your brain hears. Simplify leadership: action over theory. Good leadership demands emotional regulation and resilience.Thu, 22 Jan 2026 - 31min - 1128 - In the Loop: Rethinking Redesign: Clarity Through Communication with Rebecca Ellis
What if your biggest redesign obstacle isn't strategy, but silence?
Katherine sits down with Rebecca Ellis, Principal at AlignOrg Solutions, to explore why so many organizational changes fall flat, and what great leaders do differently. With decades of experience guiding Fortune 500s through complex transformations, Rebecca shares actionable insights on what makes change stick: clarity, communication, and courage.
They dive deep into why 70% of redesigns fail, how to become a "clarity crusader," and why passive leadership erodes trust. From tackling AI's role in restructuring to the neuroscience behind timing your message, this episode is a masterclass in navigating organizational change while honoring people and culture.
Whether you're leading a full-blown redesign or shifting your team's strategy, this conversation will help you move from resistance to results with empathy at the core.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Clarity is kindness, especially during organizational change. Adoption matters more than just great solutions. Leaders must actively shape, not just approve, change. Communication must be consistent, intentional, and human. Celebrate progress to build momentum and trust.Tue, 20 Jan 2026 - 27min - 1127 - 333: From Numbers to Narratives: How to Turn Data into Action Focus with Kaitlin Henze
What if the key to transforming data into real change isn't more dashboards, but better storytelling? 📚
Nikki welcomes Kaitlin Henze, a passionate data storytelling strategist from storytelling with data. Kaitlin helps leaders simplify complexity, turning charts into conversations and numbers into narratives that inspire action.
Together, they explore why traditional reports fall flat, how to visualize data so humans actually care, and how storytelling bridges the gap between information and impact. Kaitlin also shares her heart behind launching data literacy programs for kids and the mission of building the next generation of data-minded leaders through creativity and color.
Whether you're overwhelmed by metrics or inspired to connect data with meaning, this episode will reframe the way you communicate your insights, and remind you that data done right moves people.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Kaitlin on LinkedIn
Learn more about storytelling with data
Get the book "Storytelling with Data"
Learn more about Daphne Draws Data
Subscribe to storytelling with data on YouTube!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Data alone rarely drives action. Storytelling does. Simplicity and clarity are powerful visualization tools. Understand your audience before presenting any data. Storyboarding transforms how insights are structured. Kids need data literacy to thrive in a digital world.Thu, 15 Jan 2026 - 38min - 1126 - 332: On Purpose: Turning Values Into Action at Work with Justin Ahrens
What if your company's values didn't just live in a handbook but showed up in your daily habits?
Nikki sits down with creative strategist and purpose-driven leader Justin Ahrens to unpack how organizations can bring their vision, mission, and values to life beyond buzzwords and branding. With deep experience as a B Corp founder and now as the mind behind On Purpose, Justin offers tangible insight on transforming culture from the inside out. They dig into common missteps leaders make when vision is disconnected from action and explore what it truly looks like when culture is alive and thriving.
From onboarding that inspires, to meetings that actually matter, this conversation is for every people-first leader ready to turn alignment into action.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Justin on LinkedIn
Get Justin's Book - "Being HumanKind"
Learn more about ON Purpose Work
Listen to The Design Of Podcast
Listen to Running Ahrens!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Vision thrives when integrated into daily business rhythms. Leadership must model behaviors aligned with stated values. Systems are essential for values to stick. Culture isn't created in a vacuum, engage everyone. Clarity, consistency, and vulnerability build trust.Thu, 08 Jan 2026 - 38min - 1125 - Addicted to Betterment: What's Your Lighter Fluid? with David and Nikki Gregory
Ever feel like life's flame is flickering out? Whether it's a bad day, a tough quarter, or a rocky relationship, what's your go-to lighter fluid to reignite your fire? 🔥
Nikki and David crack open the metaphorical bottle of lighter fluid and ask the real question: how do you keep your fire lit when everything around you says quit? From explosive fire pit confessions to real talk about parenting struggles, relationship lows, and business setbacks, this conversation pulls no punches.
You'll hear how David resets after gut-punch days, why Nikki finds power in celebrating the small wins, and how anchoring to your "why" can turn a smolder into a roaring comeback. They share actionable ways to reset, refuel, and rise, because the fire always dims, but it doesn't have to go out.
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Your fire will dim, expect it and prepare for it. Recenter on your "why" when motivation disappears. Intentional routines can shift your mindset quickly. Community is key, borrow belief from others. Celebrate progress, not just outcomes.Thu, 25 Dec 2025 - 26min - 1124 - 331: Beyond Clicks and KPIs: Bringing Humanity Back to Digital Work with Andy Sitison
What if the real key to connection in the digital workplace isn't more tools, but more trust?
In a world obsessed with metrics, platforms, and productivity hacks, Andy Sitison flips the script. A strategist, designer, and people-first tech mind, Andy joins Nikki to explore how we move from clicks to true connection. 💡
Andy unveils his "Three Ps" framework, Population, Prompt, Product, and shows how empathy, when paired with intentional design and thoughtful data use, can create workplaces that actually feel human again. From overcoming the "digital veil" that clouds real connection to using AI to amplify rather than replace human insight, this episode challenges the way we approach employee experience, belonging, and meaningful work. 🧠💛
Whether you're rethinking hybrid culture, onboarding, or how to really listen to your people, this one will make you pause, reflect, and take action.
Additional Resources:
Learn more about Elemental Advising
Learn more about Share More Stories
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Technology doesn't create connection, people do. Trust unlocks honest and useful feedback. Know your people to serve them better. Data without empathy risks missing the human story. Surveys ask, stories reveal the real truth.Thu, 18 Dec 2025 - 47min - 1123 - 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:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
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.Wed, 17 Dec 2025 - 24min - 1122 - In the Loop: Good Leaders are Great Listeners with Katherine Coble
What if the most powerful leadership skill isn't what you say, but what you don't?
Katherine shares a surprising truth: she struggles with listening, and she knows she's not alone. As leaders, we often think communication is about what we say, but the real power lies in what we hear. 👂💬
Katherine explores why listening is so hard (even for well-intentioned leaders), the hidden costs of distraction, and how our brains deceive us into thinking we're better at it than we are. Most importantly, she breaks down five practical shifts that will help you listen deeper, lead better, and connect more authentically.
If you want to build credibility, foster trust, and truly hear your people, start here.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Listening is a leadership skill, not just a courtesy. Distractions kill connection. Eliminate them intentionally. Interrupting signals your words matter more than theirs. Validation shows you hear both words and emotion. Empathy builds trust. Focus on others, not yourself.Tue, 16 Dec 2025 - 21min - 1121 - 330: Leadership Is a Choice: Building Self-Efficacy Through a Behavioral Approach with Wesley Bender
What if your greatest leadership move isn't climbing the ladder, but choosing to show up differently, every single day?
Nikki sits down with Wesley Bender, a leadership coach who believes the most powerful leaders aren't defined by titles or personality types, but by their actions. Together, they unpack the bold idea that leadership is a choice, grounded in behavior and built through self-efficacy: the belief that your actions can shape outcomes.
Wesley brings a refreshing challenge to traditional frameworks and dives into why admired leaders stand out: not just because they drive performance, but because people actually want to follow them.
From personal stories to practical takeaways, this episode is a masterclass in what it means to model the way, at home, in the workplace, and everywhere in between. Tune in to rethink what leadership really looks like. 🌌
Additional Resources:
Connect with Wesley on LinkedIn
Explore the Field Notes page at Admired Leadership
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Leadership is a daily behavioral choice, not a title. Self-efficacy drives lasting leadership impact and growth. Admired leaders combine results with genuine followership. Behavioral leadership builds better habits than assessments alone. Real leadership shows up through consistent, intentional action.Thu, 11 Dec 2025 - 45min - 1120 - 329: LOVE at Work: How Leaders Transform Through Human Connection with Mark Mears
What if the most powerful tool in your leadership toolkit isn't strategy or structure, but love?
Nikki sits down with Mark Mears, bestselling author, speaker, and former C-suite executive. to explore his revolutionary new framework: LOVE (Listen, Observe, Value, Empower). After a career shake-up that sparked deep personal insight, Mark redefined what it means to lead and thrive at work.
From high-stakes boardrooms to heartfelt human moments, Mark shares how love in its most actionable form can transform culture, inspire growth, and re-engage teams in a world desperate for purpose-driven leadership. This isn't fluff, it's the fuel that moves people and results alike. ❤️
Tune in and discover how to build not just a culture, but a true community.
Additional Resources:
Get Mark's Book! "LOVE@WORK"
Take the LOVE@WORK Assessment
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Nikki's Key Takeaways:
Shift from "command & control" to "love & connection." Lead with L.O.V.E.: Listen, Observe, Value, Empower. Create community, not just culture. Anchor work in purpose, not just performance. Practice humility and grace as a daily leadership discipline.Thu, 04 Dec 2025 - 39min - 1119 - Addicted to Betterment: You're Good Enough Now. Do the Thing. with Nikki and David Gregory
What if the only thing standing between you and your big dream was… just starting?
Nikki and David tackle the excuses, fears, and perfection traps that keep us stuck on the sidelines. From the myth of "not being ready yet" to the fear of failing in front of others, they share real stories and reframes that prove you're good enough to start right now.
You'll hear why momentum builds confidence, how failure is really just feedback, and why declaring your goals out loud creates unstoppable energy. Whether it's launching a podcast, building a business, or finally chasing that thing you've been putting off, this conversation is your nudge to stop waiting and start doing. 🔥
Additional Resources:
Follow Addicted to Betterment wherever you listen to podcasts!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Perfection is the enemy of progress, and momentum creates confidence. You don't need more time, clarity, or credentials… you need to start. Reframe negative self-talk: "I'm not qualified" becomes "I'm called to do this." Failure isn't final; it's feedback that teaches and strengthens. Declaring your commitment out loud creates accountability and accelerates action.Thu, 27 Nov 2025 - 28min - 1118 - 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:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
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.Wed, 26 Nov 2025 - 29min - 1117 - 328: The Inner Work of Leadership: Rewiring Subconscious Blocks with Roya Mattis
Ever feel like you're doing everything right, but still stuck? It's not your strategy…it's your subconscious.
Nikki chats with transformational speaker and coach Roya Mattis, creator of the Trifecta Method. Roya dives deep into the invisible forces that hold high performers back, those hidden subconscious blocks formed before we even turned seven. 😳
Through stories, science, and soul, she explains how rewiring happens not just in the mind, but also in the body and even at the DNA level. Roya also breaks down the powerful balance between masculine and feminine energy, and why the most impactful leaders master both.
If you've ever felt stuck, exhausted, or like your potential is just out of reach despite doing all the "right" things…this one's for you. ⚖️
Additional Resources:
Learn more on Roya's website
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Subconscious patterns form before age seven. Awareness alone won't rewire limiting beliefs. True transformation involves mind, body, and DNA. Feminine energy is essential for deep leadership. Presence begins with simple daily grounding rituals.Thu, 20 Nov 2025 - 42min - 1116 - In the Loop: Mastering Executive Presence with Katherine Coble
What's the real reason some leaders instantly command a room while others struggle to connect?
Katherine unpacks the secret sauce behind authentic leadership: executive presence. But don't mistake it for just charisma or a polished look. This is about substance over style, connection over performance, and leading with confidence, clarity, and calm.
She explores why presence, not just words, shapes how people trust, respect, and follow you. You'll learn how to shift from filler words to powerful pauses, how to read a room and adapt with empathy, and why showing up with grounded confidence builds psychological safety for your team.
Whether you're leading a team meeting or navigating high-stakes moments, this episode offers practical, people-first strategies to grow your presence, without losing your authenticity. 💡
Additional Resources:
Master Your Executive Presence!
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Get the book: Presence by Amy Cuddy
Get the book: Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People by Vanessa Van Edwards
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Presence starts before you speak a single word. Trustworthiness is prioritized over competence in first impressions. Executive presence is built, not born. Vulnerability must be balanced with leadership authority. Alignment between words and actions builds trust.Tue, 18 Nov 2025 - 34min - 1115 - 327: Leading with Emotional Empowerment with Jamelle Lindo
What if your next-level leadership has nothing to do with spreadsheets, strategy, or AI, and everything to do with your emotions?
Emotional intelligence coach and EQ-i 2.0 Master Jamelle Lindo joins Nikki to reveal why emotional empowerment is the real superpower for leaders navigating today's fast-paced, tech-heavy world. Jamelle unpacks how to turn emotions from a liability into a leadership asset that fuels clarity, courage, and connection.
From real-life transformation stories to practical frameworks, you'll learn how to pivot from emotional avoidance to engagement and build emotional skills that actually move the needle.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Jamelle on LinkedIn
Start leading with Emotional Empowerment today!
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Emotions are data, not distractions. Self-awareness is foundational for emotional growth. Emotional empowerment starts with mindset shifts. Suppressing emotion leads to friction and burnout. Empathy requires intentional, active listening.Thu, 13 Nov 2025 - 45min - 1114 - 326: Rowing by Choice: Aligning High-Performing Teams with Anadel Alberti
What if the secret to high-performing teams isn't more strategy, but more alignment? 🚣
Nikki is joined by Anadel Alberti, founder of Audaciously Authentic, to discuss what it really means to build aligned teams. Spoiler: It's not about off-sites or one-time trainings. It's about creating spaces where trust thrives, vision is shared, and communication is clear (not assumed).
Anadel shares how leaders can foster accountability with empathy, build trust through presence, and co-create vision that actually fuels commitment.
You'll walk away rethinking how your team shows up, and how alignment might just be your biggest performance unlock.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Anadel on LinkedIn
Learn more about Audaciously Authentic
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Alignment is rowing together by choice, not obligation. Communication requires clarity, not assumptions. Accountability equals ownership with empathy. Vision succeeds when co-created. Trust begins with presence and consistency.Thu, 06 Nov 2025 - 45min - 1113 - 325: Beyond the Basics: Win Talent with Whole-Person Wellness Benefits with Michelle Yates & Mark Rosenthal
What do pets, perks, and productivity have in common?
Nikki teams up once again with Michelle Yates of PetPartners, bringing in the dynamic Mark Rosenthal to shake up how we think about employee benefits. They dive into why "nice-to-have" benefits are now need-to-have, and how understanding your people (and their furry family members 🐕) is the game-changer for attracting and retaining top talent.
From multi-generational expectations and mental health support to surprising stats on pet parents and financial stress, this episode is packed with insights that challenge the status quo and inspire leaders to rethink, reframe, and rework their approach to benefits.
You'll leave with a fresh appreciation for just how much a pet-inclusive workplace can do for your culture. 🐾✨
Additional Resources:
Learn how to create pet-friendly workspaces with the Dogs at Work Guide!
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn
Learn more about OnePack Plan by PetPartners
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Benefits must support holistic employee wellbeing. Customization is key to engaging diverse workforces. Pets are essential dependents for many employees. Perks must reflect real employee priorities and stressors. Clear communication is critical to benefits impact.Works Cited:
KRC Research conducted an online survey on behalf of OnePack Plan by Pet Partners among n=1,000 employed US adults 18-65. The sample included n=750 pet owners and n=250 non-pet owners. The study was fielded between August 19 - August 22, 2024. Cohen Research Group in conjunction with OnePack Plan by PetPartners and the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) conducted an online survey over a two-week period from February 22 to March 7, 2024, with 1,021 HR professionals working for medium or large companies in the United States and Canada. By design, half of the respondents work at companies currently offering pet health insurance to their employees and half did not offer it to them.For terms and conditions visit: www.petpartners.com/sample-policies. Products are underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, (NAIC #26581), and produced by PetPartners, Inc. (NPN #7612549; CA license #0F27261 PPI Pet Insurance Agency, Inc.).
Thu, 30 Oct 2025 - 41min - 1112 - 324: The $10,000 Work Mindset: How to Build a 25-Hour Week with Dr. Sabrina Starling
What if working less could actually make your business more successful? 💡
Nikki chats with Dr. Sabrina Starling, aka The Business Psychologist, who's here to flip your workweek on its head. Dr. Sabrina isn't just talking theory, she's living proof that you can grow a wildly successful business on just 25 hours a week (and she's now rocking a 10-hour week!).
They dive into the power of radical intentionality, how to prioritize $10,000/hour tasks, and why delegating like a pro creates massive growth opportunities for your team.
If you've ever dreamed of more margin, more impact, and way less grind... this one's your permission slip. 📝
Additional Resources:
Discover How To Make Your Time Worth $10,000 An Hour
Connect with Dr. Sabrina Starling on LinkedIn
Learn more about Tap The Potential
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Work should support life, not the other way. Identify and protect $10,000/hour activities. Delegate low-value tasks to enable team growth. Hard stops and unplugged time fuel effectiveness. A-players thrive with clear results and strengths.Thu, 23 Oct 2025 - 48min - 1111 - 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:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
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.Wed, 22 Oct 2025 - 29min - 1110 - In the Loop: What Great Leaders Actually Do with Greg Coble
Great leadership isn't just bold moves and big speeches. The real magic is in the quiet habits, clear communication, and meaningful connections the best leaders learn to make. Those were the themes of this year's Global Leadership Summit, a two-day event packed with world-renowned leadership experts.
Katherine Coble is joined (finally) by her husband and business coach, Greg Coble, to recap their favorite moments from this year's Summit.
From Craig Groeschel's call for consistency over charisma, to Nick Saban's surprising take on psychological safety, to Juliet Funt's bold message about reducing the noise, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and fresh energy for people-first leaders.
Hit play for a fun, fast-paced breakdown you won't want to miss!
Additional Resources:
Follow Concentric Leadership Group on LinkedIn
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Consistency beats charisma in leadership impact. Focus only on what leaders uniquely should do. Clear writing equals modern-day empathy. Transformational leaders prioritize learning over results. Legacy leadership builds others for lasting significance.Tue, 21 Oct 2025 - 27min - 1109 - 323: Design Your Personal Board of Directors with Melanie Stuber
Forget the one-mentor model! What if you had a team of people championing your growth?
Melanie Stuber shares how designing your personal board of directors can be a game-changer for your career and personal growth. After 25+ years in corporate leadership, Melanie stepped into entrepreneurship, and quickly realized the power of intentionally surrounding herself with people who challenge, support, and champion her.
From knowing your values to identifying the roles every growth-minded person needs (mentor, coach, sponsor, expert, and more), she breaks down how to build and sustain this dynamic circle.
Whether you're a seasoned leader or just getting started, you'll walk away with real tools to build a board that grows with you, and never feel like you're doing it alone again. 👥
Additional Resources:
Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn
Learn more about Cultivate and Thrive
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Know your values and strengths before building your board. Be intentional in choosing who surrounds and supports you. Personal boards evolve as you grow professionally and personally. Express gratitude often, as it sustains meaningful relationships. Follow-through builds trust and deepens connections.Thu, 16 Oct 2025 - 41min - 1108 - 322: To Know That Employee Engagement is Actually Emotional with Joshua Freedman
Employee engagement metrics have barely moved in over a decade, but what if we're measuring the wrong things?
Nikki sits down with Joshua Freedman, CEO of Six Seconds and author of the soon-to-drop "Emotion Rules". Together, they go deep on why engagement isn't about snacks in the breakroom or slick surveys. It's emotional, and it's human.
They unpack why "leave emotions at the door" might be the worst business advice ever, what true caring leadership looks like, and how love, trust, and boundaries create high-performing cultures where people actually want to show up.
If you're ready to trade performative leadership for authentic connection, this episode is your roadmap. 🤲
Additional Resources:
Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn
Learn more about Six Seconds
Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways: Engagement is emotional, not just a dashboard metric. Emotional intelligence globally is in serious decline. Leaders shape culture through behavior, not slogans. Genuine care includes clear, compassionate boundaries. Emotions drive people, people drive performance.Thu, 09 Oct 2025 - 43min - 1107 - 240: Creating Meaningful, Impactful Training Experiences with Ken Midgett
In this episode of Gut+Science, host Nikki Lewallen Gregory is joined by Ken Midgett, a seasoned expert in creating impactful training experiences. Ken's extensive background in the business world, entrepreneurship, and education has led him to passionately focus on the transformative power of training. Ken eloquently emphasizes the pivotal role training plays in building confidence and enhancing business outcomes. He highlights the imperative need for a shift in mindset among leaders, emphasizing the importance of culture, engagement, and alignment with the why behind training. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Ken on LinkedIn Learn more about Interplay Learning Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 14 Mar 2024 - 28min - 1106 - 239: Thrive: An Invitation to Courage with Renée Smith
Renée Smith believes that when leaders embrace love, they can create meaningful and transformative work experiences. In this episode, she takes us on a journey into the concept of courageous leadership and its impact on organizational well-being. Renée shares valuable insights on creating a safe, courageous, and vulnerable work environment that fosters growth and fulfillment. She offers actionable advice to leaders on appreciating and supporting courage in the workplace, and the profound connection between courage and organizational performance.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 12 Mar 2024 - 16min - 1105 - 238: Why a Global Movement for Psychological Safety is Needed with Jessica Bensch
Pioneering a paradigm shift in the corporate world, Jessica Bench has become the catalyst for a global movement emphasizing psychological safety within the workplace through Vanguard Voices. With a vision that took root within the confines of her large pharma company, Jessica's initiative has flourished, now engaging thousands of enthusiasts and transcending the boundaries of her initial domain. In this episode of Gut+Science, Jessica joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to delve into the critical nature of psychological safety as the bedrock of team success and organizational health. She unpacks the disconnect between stated company values and real actions, along with tangible strategies for fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to speak up without fear.
Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Learn more about Vanguard Voices Learn more about Speak Up Summit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 07 Mar 2024 - 31min - 1104 - Introducing In the Loop: Communicating for Maximum Leadership Impact with Katherine Coble
Gut+Science is launching a brand new series that explores the essential role of clear and impactful communication in creating continuous connections with employees. Host Katherine Coble will explore practical strategies that you can use to enhance your communication skills while also giving you some ideas for useful tools that can help you improve clarity. The goal of the 'In the Loop' of Gut + Science is to inspire and equip leaders to be better communicators, ultimately impacting both employee and customer experiences. Additional Resources:
Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 27 Feb 2024 - 02min - 1103 - 237: Storytelling for Impact with Susan Lindner
Susan Lindner is a passionate storyteller who has made a significant impact on both startups and Fortune 500 companies. Susan is joining Nikki Lewallen Gregory to share her insights on the power of storytelling to drive movements, create connections, and elicit real, meaningful change. Together, they dive deep into the power of storytelling and its ability to create movements, build connections, and ignite change. Susan and Nikki share their expertise on how storytelling can transcend logic and tap into the emotional core of our brains. They discuss the impact of storytelling on memory, engagement, and motivation, as well as the role of vulnerability in creating authentic connections. Susan also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, "Billion Dollar Storytelling," which offers actionable insights for crafting stories that drive billion-dollar buy-ins. Listen in as we learn to harness the power of storytelling with two of the industry's finest. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Additional
Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Susan on LinkedIn Learn more about Innovation Storytellers
Thu, 22 Feb 2024 - 33min - 1102 - 236: Enabling People To Do Their Best Work with Krista Pell
Krista Pell passionately believes in the profound impact that talent has on differentiating organizations. She brings a dynamic perspective as the Chief People, Culture, and Engagement Officer at AIMCo. With a passion for unlocking human potential, she joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to dive into the nuances of enabling people to achieve their best work. Krista champions the art of beginning with what's "good" to pave the way for greatness, advocating for tailored work environments that respect individual needs and styles. In this enlightening episode, she reveals the power of self-reflection for leaders, the magic of asking potent questions, and the significance of understanding before problem-solving. Infused with practical wisdom, from the pages of her favorite book to the athletic fields of her experiences, Krista's narrative is a compelling call to action for leaders to listen first, embrace simplicity, and cultivate safe spaces for progress, leaving listeners invigorated to elevate their leadership and empower their teams alongside Nikki.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Krista Pell Learn more about AIMCo
Thu, 15 Feb 2024 - 31min - 1101 - 235: Ready to Thrive with Renée Smith
Renée Smith believes leaders can create meaningful and transformative work experiences when they embrace love. In this episode, she takes us on a journey, sharing her insights on creating a thriving workplace culture. She discusses the six thrive factors and practical steps to cultivate a thriving environment. Renee fights against fear based leadership and helps us learn how to lead with love and do it in such an empowering way.
Be ready to be inspired to make work more human and lead with love in this series of Gut + Science with Renée called To Work: With Love.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 13 Feb 2024 - 13min - 1100 - 234: Make Your Box Bigger with Nate Roberts
In this episode, we're diving deep into a revolutionary training model with our distinguished guest, Nate Roberts, the CEO of Hometown Logistics and the 2023 People Forward Impact award winner. Nate unpacks the five transformative growth stages developed by the leadership team at Hometown: Motivation, Persistence, Stick with it, Paying the Rent, and Wanting More. He and Nikki explore why simply chasing money isn't enough, how daily discipline paves the way for progress, and the importance of embracing challenges for continuous improvement. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Nate Roberts on LinkedIn Hometown Logistics LLC Website Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 08 Feb 2024 - 38min - 1099 - 233: Delegating: Drives Business Growth & Employee Engagement with Jenna Spencer
Jenna Spencer knows first-hand that delegation is the gateway to growth and impact. In this episode, she tells Nikki how delegation can give us more time, capacity, and energy, ultimately leading to business growth and personal resilience. As the Founder and Visionary at AssistPro®, a fractional executive assistant agency, she's sharing her proprietary DASH Method™ for effective delegation, emphasizing the importance of ownership over tasks with us.
Additional Resources:Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Launch Guide (Time Maximizer included)
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 01 Feb 2024 - 24min - 1098 - 232: Shifting from Reactive to Creative Leadership with Jim Bishop
Jim Bishop is particularly intrigued by the concept of reactive leadership, which he describes as a "playing not to lose" mentality. Jim talks Nikki through leaders can do more leading and less reacting as they create more good in the world. Jim's expertise in leadership theories and human behavior makes him a captivating figure for those eager to delve into the nuances of personal and organizational leadership styles. Additional Resources:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Jim Bishop on LinkedIn Conjunction Leadership Website Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me) Book
Thu, 25 Jan 2024 - 32min - 1097 - 231: How to Build a VALUE Culture with Chellie Phillips
Workplace culture, it's an essential yet often overlooked aspect of business success and it's Chellie Phillips' sweet spot. Chellie is the international bestselling author of "Culture Secrets" and a powerhouse of knowledge on fostering a positive workplace environment. As Chellie and Nikki unravel the acronym V.A.L.U.E., we'll learn how vision, accountability, and trackable behaviors can not only empower teams but also free up leaders to focus on growth.
Additional Resources:
Chellie Phillips on LinkedIn Website for Chillie Phillips Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Check out Flying-Solo E-Book
Thu, 18 Jan 2024 - 32min - 1096 - 230: Explain WHY with Aaron Kopel
Aaron Kopel is a mastermind in leadership transformation. Aaron shared his secrets to becoming a self-aware leader who masters the art of the 'why' to rally teams and drive genuine progress. From asking powerful questions to embracing a catalyst mindset for the long haul, Aaron's wisdom is your blueprint for leading with agility. He joins Nikki to discuss the critical shift from being just a hands-on doer to becoming a transformative leader. Through a riveting discussion, Aaron sheds light on the leadership agility model, which comprises three levels: the expert leader, the achiever leader, and the high-reaching system leader. Check out the conversation for full insights! Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn Learn more about Project Brilliant
Thu, 11 Jan 2024 - 29min - 1095 - 229: It's Time to Thrive! with Renée Smith
Renée, from The Human Workplace, emphasizes the detrimental effects of fear-based leadership and highlights the positive impact of creating a culture of love and acceptance. She introduces the concept of thriving in the workplace and discusses six key factors that contribute to individual and collective well-being. As this special series unfolds over the next eight months, you'll gain valuable insights into how to cultivate a workplace environment that fosters love, inclusivity, and optimal performance. So, join us as we explore the essential elements of thriving in the workplace, and learn how to work with love to make a positive impact on people, families, and communities. Additional Resources:
Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet! Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward NetworkTue, 09 Jan 2024 - 11min - 1094 - Re-Release: You're Always Making an Impact with Abbey Johnston
Abbey Johnston is a passionate and enthusiastic individual who is dedicated to helping people realize the power they hold in making a positive impact. She believes that everyone has the ability to make a significant impact at any given moment, and she aims to inspire others to recognize and value their own potential. Through her work, Abbey hopes to empower individuals to harness their positive charge and make a lasting difference in the world. Abbey joins the latest episode of Gut+Science to share wisdom on the value of being intentional, embracing our unique styles of leadership, and the underestimated influence we have on others. We'll hear stories that highlight the power of awareness, the significance of feedback, and the importance of being present in the moment. Let's jump into this inspiring conversation on being a better leader and making a purposeful impact! Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Connect with Abbey on LinkedIn Learn more about AG Collaborative Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 04 Jan 2024 - 28min - 1093 - Re-Release: Navigating the Holidays at Work and Home with Brian McComak
This time of the year isn't always a magical time for people, but it is essential to remember to keep humans at the center while navigating this time of the year. Brian shares tips for being inclusive and mindful during the holiday and end-of-year season as people practice different faiths and deal with mental health.
Additional Resources:
Hummingbird Humanity Website: https://hummingbirdhumanity.com/
Find Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmccomak/
Thu, 21 Dec 2023 - 14min - 1092 - 228: Love In Hard Times and Good with Renée Smith
Renée Smith believes love in the workplace can transform teams and leaders. In this episode of To Work: With Love, she shares insights on the impact of fear in the workplace and how love can be a powerful antidote. She highlights the importance of supporting team members through challenging personal moments and discusses the positive impact it can have on employee well-being and team dynamics. Renée also provides a glimpse into the upcoming 2024 podcast episodes, where she'll be exploring a loving organizational framework, bringing actionable insights and strategies for embedding love in workplace operations. So, get ready to learn and embrace the transformative power of love in the workplace. Additional Resources: Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 12 Dec 2023 - 11min - 1091 - Re-Release: One Piece of Advice That Changed Everything with Kristen Hadeed
Kristen Hadeed is a living example of the power of finding alignment between what you do and what fuels you as a human. Kristen started her professional journey by creating a cleaning business. It wasn't just any old cleaning business. It was one with the goal of developing its employees as leaders. Eventually, after some tough conversations and soul searching, Kristen understood her passion was in the development side of the business.
Today, Kristen's title is Thought Leadership Leader, and she works with top organizations to help them become more human. In this episode, Kristen shares how to build a culture of caring and shared ownership that leads to better engagement and business outcomes. Listen in to learn where you can start leading with compassion and transparency in your organization.
Book Recommendation:
Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry Cloud
Additional Resources:Check out Kristen's book: https://www.kristenhadeed.com/book Connect with Kristen on: Instagram,Twitter, or Facebook Learn more about the PeopleForward Network: www.peopleforwardnetwork.com
Thu, 07 Dec 2023 - 32min - 1090 - Re-Release: Why Mattering Comes First with Zach Mercurio
Wanting to make people feel like who they are and what they do matters is common sense, but not common practice.
Zach Mercurio is an author, keynote speaker, consultant, and researcher specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, mattering, and positive organizational development. In this episode, Zach joins us to share the data that proves mattering is a primal need that never goes away but is often overlooked. Listen in to learn simple, actionable practices you can use to make your team members feel noticed, affirmed, and needed. If you can do that, you can create highly effective work environments rooted in trust and connection.
Book Recommendation:
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Additional Resources:
Learn more about the PeopleForward Network: www.peopleforwardnetwork.com
Thu, 30 Nov 2023 - 35min - 1089 - 227: Intentional Development of Leaders on the Front Lines with Katherine Coble
Katherine Coble is a champion of effective communication within organizations and has remarkable insights into enhancing the role of frontline supervisors. She joins Nikki to delve into the nuances of effective leadership and communication. We all acknowledge the impact that frontline leaders have, but if they were given the right tools and support, can they influence the employee experience even more positively? Katherine insists they can. Together, they will demystify how to shift focus from task-oriented to people-oriented mindsets, how critical is communication in building strong relationships, and what is required in nurturing these frontline warriors for better organizational success. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Katherine on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff "Six Types of Working Genius" by Patrick Lencioni
Thu, 16 Nov 2023 - 30min - 1088 - Loving Teams Support Workplace Performance with Renée Smith
Renée Smith believes that when leaders embrace love, they can create meaningful and transformative work experiences. In this episode, she takes us on a journey, asking us to remember our best team experiences and the feelings that came with them. She shares stories from research interviews and workshops, where individuals describe being part of high-performing teams that fostered love, respect, and belonging. She shares inspiring examples of how even a small group of people can become catalysts for change within their teams and organizations. If you're ready to transform your workplace and create a more loving and human-centered environment, then this episode is for you!
Additional Resources:Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 14 Nov 2023 - 11min - 1087 - 225: Growth Through Acquisition and the Challenge to Scale Communications with Matt Kistler
In this episode of Gut+Science, Nikki sits down with Matt Kistler, an expert in mergers and acquisitions and the overseer of Alera Group's incredible growth journey. Matt shares the importance of finding individuals who align with a company's culture, mission, and vision. As part of Alera Group, a People First Holistic insurance agency, Matt emphasizes the significance of building a strong culture centered around collaboration. Through engaging storytelling, Matt narrates two impactful stories that showcase the power of collaboration and equity ownership within Alera Group. He challenges leaders to step out of their comfort zones and take risks in telling their own stories to promote a company's culture. Tune in as they dive deep into the world of mergers and acquisitions, building a strong culture, and inspiring others through storytelling. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Matt on LinkedIn Learn more about Alera Group, Inc.
Thu, 09 Nov 2023 - 29min - 1086 - Leaders, You Gotta Walk the Walk with Jennifer Chapman
Jennifer Chapman, founder of Just Commit Coaching joins Nikki to share her inspiring journey and how a life-changing event propelled her down a new path. They discuss the importance of "walking the walk" as a leader, the power of self-awareness, and the barriers that prevent leaders from embracing growth. Tune in as they explore the role of empathy, emotional intelligence, and continuous self-reflection in becoming the best leader possible. Get ready for an enlightening and impactful discussion that will inspire you to make positive changes in your own life and leadership style. Let's dive in! Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn Schedule a time with Jennifer
Thu, 02 Nov 2023 - 27min - 1085 - Speak-Up Culture – What Didn't Make it Into the Book with Stephen Shedletzky
Stephen Shedletzky is a Keynote Speaker and the Author of Speak-Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up. He joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to share why leaders should ask themselves two vital questions: "Is it safe?" and "Is it worth it?" to build an environment where open communication thrives. He also reveals the pillars of creating a speak-up culture: psychological safety and the perception that speaking up is worthwhile. Together, they will explore the impact of leadership on organizational culture and discover practical strategies to encourage and reward speaking up. Stay tuned for a captivating conversation that will inspire you to foster a culture of open communication and empower those around you to find their voice. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Stephen (Shed) Shedletzky on LinkedIn How to Create A Speak-Up Culture Episode Speak-Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up Learn more about Shed Inspires
Thu, 26 Oct 2023 - 31min - 1084 - BONUS: Calling Others to Greatness with Dr. Rosie Ward
In this special bonus episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory and Rosie Ward come together for a conversation about courageous leadership.
They discuss the importance of mindset shifts, the dangers of taking responsibility for others' outcomes, and common mistakes leaders make when trying to inspire greatness. Tune in as Rosie Ward and Nikki shares their insights and experiences on how to effectively call others to their own path of greatness. Get ready for a conversation filled with valuable nuggets that can transform your leadership approach.
Additional Resources: Find Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Courageous Leadership Program Salveo Partners Website Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 19 Oct 2023 - 14min - 1083 - 221: The Keys to Scaling Employee Engagement with Tarek Kamil
Tarek Kamil, CEO and Founder of internal communication software, Cerkl, is passionate about using AI and big data to transform how organizations communicate, engage, and understand their audiences.
In this episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory and Tarek explore the nuances of employee engagement and people-forward leadership. They break down the challenges of scaling engagement and how empathy is more important than ever in connecting with team members on a deep level. He highlights the power of AI and machine learning to tailor communication and engagement strategies for individual employees. This conversation is full of insights on how to enable organizations to boost productivity, retain talent, and demonstrate the value of internal communication.
Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Tarek on LinkedIn Learn more about Cerkl Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 12 Oct 2023 - 32min - 1082 - 220: Lead with Love for a Successful, Human Workplace with Renée Smith
Renée Smith passionately advocates for moving beyond fear-based leadership and instead, embracing a more empowering and love-centered approach to leadership. Discover how love in the workplace can create an environment of safety, acceptance, and belonging, fostering respect, trust, and compassion, ultimately leading to improved performance outcomes, learning, innovation, and growth. Renee delves into the essential role of leaders in this paradigm shift, highlighting their behaviors, such as making meaningful connections, supporting individual growth, conveying trust, and promoting equity, humility, and vulnerability. Through heartfelt stories and valuable insights, Renee demonstrates how leadership rooted in love can lead to loyal, committed employees, and a thriving workplace. Tune in to learn how to work with love and create a more loving human workplace.
Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace
7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Tue, 10 Oct 2023 - 08min - 1081 - 219: Influencing a Growth Culture with Aaron Christy
Aaron Christy, Founder of Indy Roof Company built his company with the intention of creating a positive work culture. He wanted to create a workplace where people could feel excited and fulfilled rather than just counting down the hours until the day ended. Through hard work and dedication, Aaron's business has flourished. His commitment to building a strong culture has attracted talented individuals who share his vision. He joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to share his knowledge on effective leadership, setting clear expectations, and the transformative power of personal growth. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn Learn more about Indy Roof Company Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 05 Oct 2023 - 30min - 1080 - 218: Collaborative Team Development (CTD) with Projjal Ghatak
Nikki Lewallen Gregory delves into the world of Collaborative Team Development (CTD) with special guest Projjal Ghatak, the CEO of Onloop. Together, they explore this innovative model that promotes clarity, enhances employee engagement, and delivers remarkable results within teams. They discuss the essence of high-performance teams and the pursuit of sustainably optimized performance. Join them as they dive into the visual representation of CTD, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of this transformative approach to team development. Get ready to unlock the secrets of thoughtful and productive leadership, all in the name of advancing people at work and achieving business excellence. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Projjal on LinkedIn Learn about the CTD Framework Learn more about OnLoop
Thu, 28 Sep 2023 - 33min - 1079 - 217: We Cannot Be So Fragile with Nell Derick Debevoise
Nell Derick Debevoise, Partner at PurposeFused believes that in order to inspire and challenge others to grow, we must first overcome our own fragility. Nell recognizes that when we are fragile, we break easily and are unable to navigate the challenges and struggles that exist in both our personal lives and in our communities. She joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to unravel the importance of embracing challenges, defying fragility, and fostering a culture of robustness in all aspects of life. They dive deep into the concept of anti-fragility, explore the impact of fear on personal growth, and discuss the role of vulnerability in leadership. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will empower you to embrace change and make a positive impact in your personal and professional life. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Nell on LinkedIn Learn more about PurposeFused Fragility Forbes Article
Thu, 21 Sep 2023 - 30min - 1078 - Re-Release: 184: Showing Up as a Loving Leader with Dr. Sylvain Trepanier + David Black
"When you show up as a loving leader, you help people be the best they can be."
Dr. Sylvain Trepanier, SVP and System Chief Nursing Officer at Providence, says if you want your team to trust you and feel supported enough to reach their potential, it takes a loving leadership approach. In this episode, Syl and our guest host, David Black, discuss the deliberate behaviors Syl practices so he can show up authentic, honest, and fully present. Along the way, you'll learn about his daily rituals to stay grateful and intentionally inspire those around him.
Additional Resources:
Check out Dr. Syl's Website Connect with Dr. Syl on Facebook Connect with David Black Find out more about Even Health and Cabana Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward NetworkThu, 14 Sep 2023 - 31min - 1077 - 215: Love: A Workplace Value with Renée Smith
In this special segment of "To Work: With Love," Nikki Lewallen Gregory invites Renée Smith to explore the transformative power of love in leadership and the workplace. Amid the prevalent challenges people face in modern workplaces, including stress, burnout, and loneliness, she advocates for a paradigm shift toward love-based leadership, believing operationalizing love in the workplace can lead to improved retention, engagement, creativity, and overall well-being for employees.
Additional Resources: Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Get Grounded in the Basics of Love and Fear Learn more about A Human Workplace 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Renée on Geeks, Geezers, Googlization podcast Learn more about PeopleForward Network Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Tue, 12 Sep 2023 - 14min - 1076 - 214: It IS possible to Forecast Engagement with Roza Szafranek
Roza Szafranek is a passionate entrepreneur who is committed to spending her time and effort building businesses with a strong people function. She's received various global recognitions for her incredible work, including the Forbes Top 100 List.
In this episode, Roza joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to dissect the intricacies of talent acquisition. Together, they break down the importance of aligning candidates with the company culture, advocating for a focus on future potential, and recognizing the boundary between healthy engagement and burnout. This conversation is filled with insights that you don't want to miss!
Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Roza on LinkedIn Learn more about HR Hints Learn more about Culture Ivy: The Power of Changing a Workplace Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 07 Sep 2023 - 37min - 1075 - 213: Lead With Love with Renée Smith
Renée Smith champions a more loving and human workplace. Love? Yes, love. She is the Founder and CEO of A Human Workplace. She conducts primary research, writes, and speaks on love and Making Work More Human. In this episode, she joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to delve into the importance of relationships and care as the core of leadership. They discuss the art of holding space and managing uncomfortable conversations with dignity and courage and suggest ways to nurture coaching skills for challenging discussions. Aspiring leaders are invited to reflect, learn, and continually evolve on their journey to becoming more compassionate and effective leaders.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Schedule a time to talk with Renée Renée's Website Renée's Speaker Reel A Human Workplace Website 7 Steps to Lead With Love Even When Your Organization Isn't Ready To Yet Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward NetworkThu, 24 Aug 2023 - 37min - 1074 - 212: Embracing Technology to Move People & Business Forward with Josh Jones
Josh Jones is passionate about leveraging technology to enhance recruitment processes. With expertise in AI-powered candidate sourcing and robust recruitment marketing, Josh has been at the forefront of implementing innovative tools that support diversity and inclusion initiatives within companies.
He joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to share valuable insights on the future of work and the overwhelming options technology offers. They dive into the importance of consistency in the application process and how technology can enhance the candidate experience. Get ready to be inspired as we delve into the necessity of embracing technology in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Stay tuned as they discuss how technology can be a solution to problems, build capacity through automation, and support diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward NetworkThu, 17 Aug 2023 - 27min - 1073 - 211: You're Always Making an Impact with Abbey Johnston
Abbey Johnston is a passionate and enthusiastic individual who is dedicated to helping people realize the power they hold in making a positive impact. She believes that everyone has the ability to make a significant impact at any given moment, and she aims to inspire others to recognize and value their own potential. Through her work, Abbey hopes to empower individuals to harness their positive charge and make a lasting difference in the world. Abbey joins the latest episode of Gut+Science to share wisdom on the value of being intentional, embracing our unique styles of leadership, and the underestimated influence we have on others. We'll hear stories that highlight the power of awareness, the significance of feedback, and the importance of being present in the moment. Let's jump into this inspiring conversation on being a better leader and making a purposeful impact!
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Connect with Abbey on LinkedIn Learn more about AG Collaborative Learn more about PeopleForward NetworkThu, 10 Aug 2023 - 28min - 1072 - 210: Never Stop Leading Yourself with Chad Peterman
Chad Peterman, President + CEO of Peterman Brothers, empowers his team to chase their potential by being a present leader, allowing them to focus on what they do best, offering help and support wherever needed. In this episode, Chad shares his transformative message: "Lead Yourself," outlining his growth journey, recounting the challenges he faced and the pivotal moments that shaped him into the leader he is today. The episode uncovers how empowering others became the cornerstone of his company's achievements, highlighting the impact of nurturing a culture of mentorship.
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Chad on LinkedIn Peterman Brothers Website More on PeopleForward Network Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedInThu, 03 Aug 2023 - 29min - 1071 - 209: Consistency is Key to a Successful Hiring Practice with Amy Oviedo
In this episode, Nikki welcomes Amy Oviedo, founder of Recruiting Experiences, to discuss the importance of consistency in successful hiring. Amy shares her insights and experiences in the recruiting industry, emphasizing the lack of training for recruiters and the need for structured processes and standardized communication. Amy highlights the common pitfalls in hiring processes, pointing out that many recruiters are not adequately trained for their roles. She explains that recruiters often rely on their natural instincts and bubbly personalities, overlooking the crucial aspects of process management and standardized communication that contribute to consistency over time.
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Learn more about Recruiting ExperiencesThu, 20 Jul 2023 - 28min - 1070 - 208: 7 Step Feedback Framework with Marsha Clark
In this episode, Nikki is joined by Marsha Clark, best-selling author and podcaster, passionate about supporting women's personal and professional development. They dive into a seven-step feedback framework and discuss the importance of being clear about expectations, checking in with employees, and offering help. The episode also includes three actionable pieces of advice for effective feedback. Listen in to understand the importance of communication to avoid breakdowns in relationships and how to ask for feedback to improve communication.
Additional Resources
Connect with Marsha on LinkedIn
Learn more about Cassandra Capital
Embracing Your Power: A Woman's Path to Authentic Leadership and Meaningful Relationships
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Thu, 06 Jul 2023 - 33min - 1069 - 207: Let's Challenge How You Recruit New Talent with Jennifer Loper
In this episode of Gut+ Science, Nikki talks with Jennifer Loper about the importance of building relationships and asking questions in the recruitment process rather than solely relying on qualifications. Jennifer shares the story of how a job opportunity changed her family's future and challenges leaders to think differently about hiring. She encourages listeners to explore unconventional career paths and to focus on problem-solving, relationship-building abilities in candidates.
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn Learn more about c3Thu, 15 Jun 2023 - 26min - 1068 - 206: Creating Positive Work Vibes with Kristi Skutvik
In this episode, Nikki is joined by Kristi Skutvik, Co-Founder & Chief Vibe Officer at workvibes to chat about creating positive work vibes and simplifying work for a more fulfilling experience. Kristi defines workplace culture as a collective energy and emphasizes the importance of connecting with others through simplified communication tactics like video messaging and real-time feedback. Listen in to uncover the importance of understanding one's own purpose and values for finding fulfilling work, as well as creating positive work environments through factors like connection, autonomy, flexibility, and recognition.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Kristi on LinkedIn Learn more about workvibesThu, 01 Jun 2023 - 31min - 1067 - 205: How to Create Fulfilling Work with Traci Scherck
On this episode, Traci Scherck, Chief Talent Officer at Elevated Talent Consulting joins Nikki to discuss the importance of fulfilling work and the ripple effect it has on individuals and communities. Together, they break down the concept of "holding space" as a coaching skill and how it empowers individuals to problem-solve on their own. Tracy also shares four powerful levers for creating fulfilling work experiences: job fit, leadership, team dynamic, and values alignment.
Additional Resources
Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Traci on LinkedIn Learn more about Elevated Talent ConsultingThu, 18 May 2023 - 33min
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