Workday Podcasts

Workday's Liz Jennings is joined by Kunal Sethi, vice president of HR Digital Strategy at Medtronic, to explore how AI is reshaping the future of human resources. From early wins across more than 200 AI use cases to building a unified HR strategy, this conversation highlights how Medtronic is turning AI into a catalyst for both efficiency and human impact.

Chris Ernst, Workday’s Chief Learning Officer and organizational learning expert, explores how AI reshapes learning and workplace connection. He warns instant AI answers can erode peer learning and growth. He outlines designing work for social, developmental moments, using AI to amplify local connections, and protecting time for creativity and sensemaking.

In this insightful conversation, Eleanor Priestley, Group COO Capabilities Lead at NatWest Group, shares her expertise on transforming business through AI. With a rich background in HR transformation, she discusses the bank’s ambitious goal of giving back a million hours to employees. Eleanor highlights the role of Agentic AI in simplifying processes and how effective change management helps colleagues embrace new technology. She also offers valuable advice for leaders on fostering innovation and securing buy-in for AI initiatives.

Vanessa Candela, Chief Legal and Trust Officer at Celonis, is reshaping the perception of legal from a 'department of no' to a trust-first organization. She discusses the importance of AI governance, advocating for frameworks that promote responsible AI adoption. Candela emphasizes the need for clean data and process intelligence for effective AI. She also highlights the role of AI champions and the significance of training AI agents like new hires. With a call to embrace AI or risk obsolescence, she offers practical advice for professionals navigating this digital landscape.

Diane Gherson, former Chief Human Resource Officer at IBM, now serves as a board member and advisor, specializing in HR transformation. She discusses how AI can augment human work rather than replace it. Gherson emphasizes the importance of defining AI's role in the workplace and involving employees in redesigning workflows. She shares insights on upskilling and the need for emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and career advocacy as irreplaceable skills. Gherson also argues for a new work design methodology for the AI era, fostering optimism for the future.

Join Pete A. Tiliakos, a seasoned analyst on payroll strategy, as he sheds light on the transformative 'golden age' of payroll. He discusses the evolution from a cost center to a strategic driver for business performance, emphasizing the wealth of data payroll provides. Pete warns of the risks of unprepared payroll operations and explains how AI and modern tools enable payroll leaders to become vital business advisors. He encourages professionals to embrace technology, establish executive relationships, and seize their newfound strategic importance.

Toby Stuart, an academic and chair of Workday's AI Advisory Board, shares insights on navigating the AI landscape. He discusses why some companies excel in AI adoption while others falter, emphasizing the need for data readiness and executive buy-in. Stuart highlights the evolving roles of CIOs, stressing the importance of establishing clear accountabilities as AI reshapes organizations. He also touches on his book, 'Anointed,' exploring how social status influences workplace dynamics and technology acceptance. Finally, he offers strategic advice for CIOs on leading AI integration.

Joanna Riley, CEO and co-founder of Censia with a dynamic background in the FBI and entrepreneurship, joins Emma Chalwin to explore the evolving landscape of leadership in an AI-driven world. They discuss the importance of embracing AI early to unlock potential and how it can handle routine tasks, allowing leaders to focus on meaningful connections. Joanna emphasizes leading with vulnerability to foster trust and collaboration, predicting that future workplaces will be flatter and more innovative as AI becomes integral to teamwork and exploration.

In this engaging discussion, Jessie Heath, Director of Global Talent at La-Z-Boy, shares insights on creating human-centered workplace strategies. She emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in fostering belonging among employees. Jessie makes the compelling case for prioritizing care in business, linking it to improved productivity and reduced absenteeism. The conversation highlights balancing AI tools with genuine human connection and the significance of intentional conversations in building trust and community in the workplace.

Dow's Sarah Jo (“SJ”) Rowley explains the human-centered future of work and why AI isn't a race to automate, but a journey to elevate everyone. In conversation with Josh Tarr, she reveals how a 128-year-old company is leading the AI adoption era by anchoring its transformation in trust, skills-based frameworks, and a culture of empathy. Discover how to reframe AI from a productivity play to a cultural one, and the essential role of HR as talent advisor.