HR Leaders
Chris Rainey
Join host Chris Rainey on the HR Leaders Podcast, where he sits down with top Chief People Officers, CHROs, and leading HR experts to uncover the strategies, trends, and insights shaping the future of human resources. Each episode dives into best practices in people management, leadership challenges, and transformative HR innovations that impact both business success and society at large. Whether you're an HR professional or simply passionate about modern workplace strategies, this podcast delivers expert advice, real-world experiences, and the latest trends in HR, making it your go-to resource for all things human resources.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 14min
How Lloyds Builds Leaders for the AI Era
In this discussion, Sharon Doherty, Chief People and Places Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, delves into how companies can lead amid the AI revolution. She emphasizes prioritizing substance over show and the importance of purposeful leadership. Insights into global executive learning trips highlight real-world AI applications. Sharon introduces 'AI ninjas'—reverse mentors aiding leaders in their AI journey. The conversation underscores the need for trust and transparency in leadership, while stressing three cultural mainstays that keep organizations strong during times of change.
20 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 11min
Inside McDonald’s Culture Strategy
In this engaging discussion, Emilee F. DeMartino, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer for McDonald's International Operated Markets, shares insights on nurturing a people-first culture across 120+ markets. She reveals how AI revolutionized hiring, slashing time from three days to just three minutes while doubling applications. Emilee also emphasizes the importance of values like integrity and inclusion, how listening shapes their approach, and the significance of cultural norms in enhancing collaboration and driving strategic growth.
5 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 12min
How LEGO Is Getting Ready for 2026 (and What HR Must Copy)
Kent Frederiksen, Vice President and Head of Rewards at LEGO, discusses the company's proactive approach to upcoming EU pay transparency rules. He emphasizes that transparency goes beyond compliance; it’s about building trust and ownership for employees. Kent reveals the challenges organizations face, such as messy data and needing a solid job structure. He shares insights on LEGO’s six-year journey in global equal pay analyses and why HR must shift to a partnership mentality to succeed in this new landscape.
8 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 10min
Why AI Fails Without Psychological Safety (and How to Fix It)
In this conversation, Raj Verma, Chief Culture, Inclusion and Employee Experience Officer at Sanofi, dives into the crucial intersection of culture and AI adoption. He emphasizes that culture is a verb and explains how intentional behavior shapes AI transformation. Raj discusses the significance of psychological safety, enabling employees to embrace AI tools without fear. He also highlights the role of recognition in fostering belonging and detecting biases, pointing out how these strategies contribute to a successful, human-centered workplace.
12 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 9min
The New Rules of Leadership in 2026 (and What You Must Stop Tolerating)
Frédéric Patitucci, Chief People & Culture Officer at Philip Morris International, shares insights on transforming PMI from a traditional tobacco company to a smoke-free, science-driven business. He discusses the co-creation of PMI DNA with over 350 employees, emphasizing accountability through defining undesirable behaviors. Frédéric explains how culture accelerates organizational change, drives responsible AI adoption, and embeds values into daily work. His vision highlights the importance of grassroots movements in reshaping corporate culture and leadership accountability.
7 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 16min
How to Build a Responsible AI Ecosystem
In this discussion, Michiel van Duin, Chief People Technology, Data and Insights Officer at Novartis, shares insights on building a human-centered AI ecosystem. He explains the collaboration between HR, IT, and corporate strategy to ensure AI aligns with business goals. Michiel reveals how Novartis developed the 'Ask Novartis' AI assistant and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a 'human-in-the-loop' approach for sensitive issues. He also discusses the need to upskill HR and build governance frameworks for responsible AI use.
5 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 14min
The Blueprint for a Skills-Based Organization (SAP’s Model)
Join Gina Vargiu-Breuer, Chief People Officer at SAP, as she dives into the exciting transition of SAP towards a skills-based, AI-powered workforce. She details how SAP is revolutionizing its HR practices by defining an extensive skills taxonomy of over 800 capabilities. Gina emphasizes the importance of a human–AI partnership, encouraging employees to dedicate 15% of their time to continuous learning. With her vibrant insights, she highlights the critical balance between embracing technology and nurturing a human-centric culture in today's fast-evolving landscape.
6 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 20min
Why 90% of AI Projects Fail (and How to Fix It)
Eric Mosley, Founder and CEO of Workhuman, dives into the reasons why 80-90% of AI projects fail, attributing it to a lack of meaningful data. He highlights how recognition data can fuel AI innovation by uncovering hidden talent and reducing bias. Eric shares insights on the emotional ROI of gratitude at work, the importance of mobile and peer-to-peer recognition, and the potential for AI to predict career paths. With a vision for a future where AI amplifies humanity, he reveals actionable steps for building effective recognition programs.
14 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 16min
How Microsoft Balances AI and Humanity in HR
Amy Coleman, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at Microsoft, shares her insights from 25 years at the company. She discusses how to balance AI and humanity in HR, emphasizing trust and inclusion. Amy highlights the importance of reframing AI as a tool for creativity rather than control and how psychological safety can fuel innovation across diverse teams. She also explores the evolving role of HR, advocating for empathy and vulnerability as keys to building deeper trust and motivation in today's dynamic workplace.
23 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 10min
The Real Future of Managers in 2026 (and Why Most HR Teams Aren’t Ready)
Join Sandrine GIRSZYN, Chief Human Resources Officer at AXA, as she delves into the evolving role of managers. She emphasizes the necessity of middle managers in bridging transformation, performance, and well-being. Discover AXA's innovative support strategies, including their 'People Link' community and immersive in-person workshops, which foster trust and peer learning. Sandrine also advocates for human-centric coaching over AI solutions, highlighting the importance of personal connections in manager development.
