“HR Heretics” | How CPOs, CHROs, Founders, and Boards Build High Performing Companies

Kick off the New Year with a discussion on the need for change in dysfunctional organizations. Delve into the power of authentic connections and accountability in hiring practices. Explore the role of curiosity in workplace dynamics, while challenging the reliance on charismatic leaders. Discover the concept of 'ninja teams' that are agile and responsive, ready to tackle any challenge, alongside innovative AI tools revolutionizing recruitment. Get ready for spicy takes and practical wisdom that could redefine your approach to HR.

Kelli and Nolan share candid reflections on a transformative year, revealing personal struggles and triumphs. They recommend must-read books and binge-worthy podcasts that shaped their perspectives. Dive into their bold predictions for 2025, where they argue that traditional headcounts may be holding companies back. The discussion touches on themes of identity, resilience, and the necessity for authentic diversity and inclusion efforts in the workplace. Enjoy raw insights from two HR leaders who value real talk over fluff.

Siadhal Magos, CEO of Metaview and an AI expert, dives into the rising influence of AI on the workforce. He discusses how AI-powered sales reps could change job structures and the crucial funding behind automation trends. Siadhal emphasizes the balance between job displacement and the creation of new roles, urging workers to adapt. The podcast also highlights AI's transformative role in recruitment, streamlining processes while preserving essential human interaction for successful hiring.

Ever feel like your HR team operates like a bunch of separate countries? Discover how blending your People Ops can be the secret to scaling success. Explore the transformation of HR from a corner team to dynamic business partners. Learn about collaboration through color gradients to break down silos. Embrace messiness in the workplace as a pathway to growth and adaptability. Dive into innovative approaches like collaborative pods and role mobility to enhance team cohesion and performance.

In this engaging talk, Chris Yeh, author and venture partner known for co-writing Blitzscaling, shares his wisdom from the heart of Silicon Valley. He discusses the critical art of unlearning and the necessity of infinite learning in today's fast-paced world. Yeh emphasizes the benefits of taking time off for well-being and the value of collaborating with influential minds. He also touches on the adaptability required for successful relationships in business, along with insights into crafting effective compensation practices for modern workplaces.

Jeff Diana, a seasoned Chief People Officer and board advisor, shares invaluable insights on transforming HR into a strategic business partner. He discusses the importance of HR leaders joining sales calls, understanding P&L, and engaging in customer support. Diana emphasizes that HR must move beyond traditional roles and actively participate in business functions. By collaborating with operations and other departments, HR can gain crucial business acumen and credibility, thus becoming integral in shaping overall business strategy.

Explore the rising pressure on HR leaders as budget scrutiny intensifies from the C-suite. Delve into strategies for transforming difficult financial conversations into opportunities for building trust. The importance of proactive communication and assuming good intent in stakeholder management takes center stage. Discover how genuine human connections enhance leadership dynamics, emphasizing the value of in-person interactions over digital ones. Join a candid discussion on the balance between accountability and transparency in decision-making.

Donald Knight, SVP of People and Culture at Warner Brothers Discovery, shares his journey through HR, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. He discusses innovative parental leave strategies and the intersection of fitness with personal leadership, revealing how early morning workouts influence his productivity. Knight also addresses the evolving challenges of HR, including the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the need for genuine company culture over mere imitation of others.

Didier Elzinga, CEO of Culture Amp and former film industry professional, shares insights on leadership and workplace culture. He argues that many leaders misunderstand growth and discusses the detrimental effects of treating feedback casually. Didier emphasizes the need for trust and mission alignment in culture-first organizations, especially post-pandemic. He also highlights the role of storytelling in fostering engagement and improving communication within teams. His unique perspective bridges creativity and organizational psychology.

How do you support a founding CTO struggling to scale? The conversation dives into avoiding premature judgments and emphasizes building trust and relationships. The importance of nurturing existing leadership rather than plotting replacements is highlighted. Constructive feedback is explored as a tool for cultivating effective leadership, alongside the need for humility in self-assessment. Ultimately, fostering an environment of open communication and support is essential for successful transitions in growing companies.