Human Capital

On this replay, Jeff and Matthew Bidwell, a Wharton professor, explore key strategies for enhancing employee motivation and reducing attrition. They dive into the value of autonomy, learning opportunities, and variety in job roles, with real-world examples from companies like Costco and Trader Joe’s. They also discuss the importance of strong relationships between managers and employees, highlighting how genuine care for an employee’s well-being and career development can lead to higher engagement and retention. The conversation touches on managing stress in the workplace, offering insights on finding the balance between workload demands and employee resources. Also, Jeff and Matthew emphasize that while extrinsic benefits like pay matter, fostering an environment of trust, support, and autonomy is key to keeping employees loyal and satisfied.

On this episode, Jeff is joined by AI and technology expert Bernard Marr to discuss the transformative power of artificial intelligence in today’s business landscape. Bernard explains how AI, particularly generative and Agentic AI, is revolutionizing workflows, enhancing human capabilities, and reshaping leadership strategies. He emphasizes the importance of integrating AI without losing the human touch and offers insights into balancing efficiency with employee engagement. Bernard also delves into the risks of AI, such as data biases and ethical concerns, while sharing practical steps for leaders to foster trust and navigate the AI-driven future. Whether you’re an AI novice or an experienced executive, this conversation provides valuable insights into leveraging AI to enhance both organizational performance and human connection.

In this episode, Jeff welcomes Pascal Bornet, a world-renowned expert in AI and automation, for a thought-provoking conversation about how technology is reshaping the future of work. As the author of , Pascal explores the often misunderstood relationship between humans and AI, offering a fresh perspective on how this powerful technology can enhance, rather than replace, human capabilities. He shares that the future success of individuals and businesses depends on balancing the strengths of AI with uniquely human traits such as creativity, critical thinking, and social authenticity.

Jeff and Pascal discuss the importance of putting humans at the center of AI transformations and explain how the right synergy between humans and machines can create enormous value. They also delve into the ethical considerations and potential risks of AI, emphasizing the need for human oversight and adaptability in an ever-changing technological landscape.

In this insightful episode, Jeff is joined by Scott Allender, author of The Enneagram of Emotional Intelligence and co-host of The Evolving Leader podcast. Together, they explore the power of emotional intelligence in the workplace, focusing on how the Enneagram can serve as a transformative tool for self-awareness. Scott unpacks the nine Enneagram types, explaining how each type reflects core motivations, fears, and behaviors that influence our leadership styles and interactions. Across the conversation, Jeff and Scott discuss the importance of recognizing the deeper, often unconscious, aspects of our personality that drive decision-making, relationships, and workplace dynamics. They also delve into how self-awareness can lead to greater empathy, trust, and ultimately, stronger team performance.

On this episode Jeff welcomes Juliette Denny, Founder and Managing Director of Growth Engineering Limited. Jeff and Juliette have a spirited discussion about the transformative power of Learning and Development (L&D). With a background in psychology and marketing, Juliette has spent over 20 years developing innovative learning environments that engage employees and drive real business results. She shares her perspective on Edgar Dale's Cone of Experience and its widespread misconceptions, explaining how learning can be maximized through both abstract and concrete experiences.

Juliette and Jeff also dive into the importance of curiosity in learning and how organizations often miss out on the true potential of L&D by not embedding it at the core of their strategy. Drawing on her experience working with companies like L’Oreal, HP, and Samsung, she highlights how a strong L&D approach can boost both innovation and profitability. Additionally, they offer a glimpse into her new venture, Iridescent Technology, and how AI is reshaping the way we approach personalized learning, helping to foster growth and adaptability in the workplace. Whether you're a leader, L&D professional, or lifelong learner, this episode provides valuable insights on how to build an effective learning culture that aligns with your organization's vision and goals.

In this episode of Human Capital, Jeff is joined again by Dr. Benjamin Ritter, a leadership and career coach, organizational development expert, and founder of Live for Yourself Consulting. Jeff discusses with Benjamin his new book: Becoming Fearless: 65 Strategies to Journey from Self-Doubt to Self-Mastery, they share insights on overcoming fear and self-doubt to achieve personal and professional growth. The discussion delves into the root causes of fear, its impact on our work lives, and how embracing fearlessness can lead to stronger relationships, better performance, and a more fulfilling life. Whether you're struggling with career hesitations or looking to take healthy risks, this episode offers practical strategies for building confidence and leading and living with intention.

Dive into the world of strategic communication and storytelling with Jeff and this week's guest Cheryl Snapp Conner, a seasoned expert in PR and business communication. Throughout the episode, Jeff and Cheryl share valuable insights on how businesses can effectively tell their stories and navigate the complex landscape of modern communication. Cheryl shares compelling examples of companies that have mastered their messaging, as well as cautionary tales of PR missteps. They emphasize the critical importance of proactive communication strategies and authenticity in brand messaging while exploring the evolving role of social media in corporate communication, offering practical advice on handling crises in the digital age. The episode provides thought-provoking perspectives on measuring communication effectiveness and aligning PR efforts with overall business strategy.

In this insightful episode, Jeff talks with Jeff Haden about the mindset and habits that separate high achievers from the rest. Mr. Haden is a renowned author, speaker, and influencer with over 1 million LinkedIn followers and 2.5 million monthly readers of his articles in Inc. magazine. He's known for his expertise in leadership, company culture, and performance. Jeff has written numerous books, including The Motivation Myth, which Jeff and Jeff explore in depth on the show.

Jeff shares how the power of discipline, and how overachievers are often ordinary people who have mastered the art of consistency. They break down how sticking to what you love, one day at a time, can lead to extraordinary success.

As the two of them unpack the myths surrounding motivation, it becomes clear that motivation often doesn’t appear until you start taking action. Jeff and Jeff talk about how to build momentum through daily efforts and why the journey to achieving big goals begins with small, manageable steps.

Tune in to discover practical strategies for cultivating discipline, maintaining motivation, and ultimately, turning your aspirations into reality. Whether you're looking to boost your productivity or achieve a long-term goal, this episode offers valuable insights to guide you on your path to success.

In this episode, Jeff Hunt welcomes resilience expert Luis Velasquez, the author of Ordinary Resilience. They dive deep into the concept of resilience, exploring how overcoming obstacles can shape individuals into more effective leaders and employees. Luis shares his personal journey of resilience, growing up in Guatemala during a time of political unrest and economic hardship, as well as significant health challenges in the U.S. Despite these challenges, he managed to build a successful career, thanks to the support of the U.S. "Scholarships for Peace" program. Luis offers insights from his book, providing practical strategies for building resilience, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, relationships, and seeing challenges as opportunities for growth. Jeff and Luis talk about how resilience involves not just bouncing back but also growing from adversity and how recognizing the difference between pain and discomfort can help individuals push through difficult situations.

In this engaging episode of the Human Capital Podcast, Jeff Hunt returns from a break with his batteries recharged and dives into a profound discussion with Sam Horn, a renowned communication strategist and author of "Talking on Eggshells." Sam shares her career journey, emphasizing the pivotal moments that shaped her expertise in effective communication and leadership. She highlights the significance of her "power three" – close family and friends, meaningful work, and daily nature walks – as the foundation of her gratitude and fulfillment.

Sam recounts a critical leadership lesson where self-doubt led her to decline a major managerial role, later realizing her capability to succeed in that position. The conversation explores the vital role of language in fostering a positive workplace environment and the power of listening and situational awareness. Sam and Jeff provide practical strategies for leaders to enhance communication, reduce workplace resistance, and promote genuine collaboration. By shifting from authoritative commands to collaborative asks, they illustrate how leaders can create more dynamic and cooperative workspaces.