Building a successful business isn’t just about strategy, sales, or marketing. It’s about people. In this episode, Susan Mahaffee, CEO and Founder of People Rise, shares why culture, leadership, and strong HR foundations are the real drivers of long-term growth. Whether you’re a solopreneur preparing to hire or a growing business managing a team, you’ll learn how to build a people-first organization that attracts, develops, and retains the right talent. If you want to lead with confidence, avoid costly mistakes, and create a workplace where people actually want to stay, this conversation is for you.

Episode Topics:

1. Why culture is the deciding factor for employee retention and growth
2. When small business owners should start thinking about HR
3. Contractors vs. employees and setting clear expectations
4. The hidden risks of DIY HR and “ChatGPT handbooks”
5. Building leadership skills as your business grows
6. Creating systems, processes, and compliance from the start
7. The shift toward people-first workplaces and purpose-driven culture
8. Inside the People Power Masterclass and cohort leadership model

Insights:

1. When your people rise, your business rises.
2. Culture is the primary reason employees choose to stay or leave.
3. Investing early in the right people systems prevents costly “rework tax” later.
4. Many business owners invest in marketing and sales but neglect leadership development.
5. Employees leave when they don’t see a future, growth path, or strong leadership.
6. Today’s workforce prioritizes purpose, values, and meaningful work over compensation alone.
7. Great leaders create calm confidence, even when navigating difficult situations.

Highlights:

00:00 Welcome and Intro

00:13 Introductions & Setup

02:06 FAM Realty Background

03:39 Reason for Social Shift

08:15 Content Strategy & Execution

13:20 Recording Levels & Workflow

16:47 Boosting & Profile Strategy

18:26 Advice for Individuals

22:42 Engagement Tactics

26:29 Mindset on Engagement

30:11 Closing & Resources

31:18 Podcast episode ended

Resources:

1. Website: https://www.peoplerisellc.com/
2. Instagram & LinkedIn: @PeopleRiseLLC
3. People Power Masterclass (6-month leadership cohort)
4. Upcoming book: When People Rise: HR Secrets for Small Business Growth, Success, and Legacy
5. Featured in: We Lead – Volume 3 (Amazon Bestseller)

If this episode gave you a new perspective on leadership and culture, subscribe to the podcast and share it with a business owner or team leader who’s building their next level. Strong businesses are built by strong leaders. Start investing in your people today.

Connect with Kara to share your thoughts on the series:

Website - http://www.kcdrealestate.com/

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karachaffindonofrio/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/karachaffin1?_rdc=1&_rdr

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/KaraChaffin

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karachaffin/

Don't forget to visit freegiftfromkara.com for our special giveaway, the Dynamic Life Journal to help you maintain your authentic voice and intuitive wisdom while navigating the balance between technology and human connection in your business and personal life.

Special Listener Offer: Unlock Your Soul-Aligned Brand with Jen Cudmore

As a gift to our Soul Inspiring Business community, I’ve convinced my incredible mentor and business coach, Jen Cudmore, to create an exclusive package just for you—our loyal listeners. This special offer includes a powerful private session to dive into your branding archetypes and a 3-month coaching package at a deeply discounted rate.

Ready to clarify your message, magnetize your dream clients, and grow your business from the inside out?

Click here to claim your exclusive Soul Inspiring Business listener package