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

Nolan and Kelli dive into the exhilarating chaos of startup life after leaving large corporations. They discuss the importance of building genuine relationships and embracing transparency in teams. The emotional challenges of adapting to this new environment are explored, with a focus on personal connections that enhance organizational health. They also highlight the demanding nature of startup culture, stressing the need for self-care and boundaries to maintain well-being amid the hustle.

The speakers share heartfelt concerns about the impacts of LA wildfires. They discuss the complexities of managing CEO-mandated attrition and transforming these directives into effective performance frameworks. Insightful strategies for navigating communications in the face of pressure are revealed. The conversation also highlights the role of AI in recruitment, enhancing connections and data quality. Finally, they challenge traditional notions of layoffs, advocating for transparency and empathy in HR practices.

Colin Zima, former Looker executive and current Omni CEO, shares insights from his unique management style that thrives on minimal bureaucracy. He argues that founders should roll up their sleeves and tackle tough tasks directly. Colin explains his unconventional approach of operating without an HR or G&A team, valuing engagement over traditional roles. He discusses the cultural pitfalls from acquisitions, like the Google-Listener experience, and emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt their strategies in a hybrid work environment.

In a captivating conversation, Bryan Power, a Silicon Valley veteran who shaped talent strategies at Google and Yahoo, dives into hiring practices amid tech culture. He shares why Square avoided hiring from the payments sector and the startup risks of conventional wisdom. Bryan emphasizes the importance of real-world experience over prestigious resumes and the role of leaders in employee training. He explores the delicate balance between a founder’s vision and evolving company culture, offering fresh insights for emerging 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.