🎧 Episode Description

In this episode of We’re Only Human, host Ben Eubanks sits down with Jason Thrasher, one of the most inspiring voices from HR Summer School, to explore how choosing joy can transform your work, leadership, and life.

Jason shares his belief that “joy is now”—not something you wait for, but something you choose every day. From his journey in HR to lessons learned from country music and Chick-fil-A, he reveals how gratitude, authenticity, and purpose can create a culture that people truly want to be part of.

The conversation dives deep into the mindset of joyful leadership, practical ways to bring joy into daily work, and how self-awareness and connection empower teams. You’ll hear personal stories, actionable insights, and a reminder that owning your joy is the first step to owning your impact.

Check out HR Summer School: https://hrsummerschool.org

🕒 Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Episode Setup
 01:20 Meet Jason Thrasher — From Music Dreams to HR Leadership
 02:45 “Joy Is Now” — Why Joy Can’t Wait for Tomorrow
 04:38 Practical Habits for Choosing Joy Every Morning
 05:56 The Culture You Create Determines the Audience You Keep
 07:40 Balancing Joy and Mental Health in the Workplace
 09:50 Real-Life Story: “Thank You for Coming to Work Today”
 11:55 How Joy Drives Engagement, Belonging, and Productivity
 13:24 The Sound of Joy — How Music Changes the Atmosphere
 14:35 Breaking Out of the “Check-the-Box” Mindset
 15:20 Knowing Your Why and Leading with Purpose
 16:40 Just Own Yourself — The Simplicity of Authentic Joy
 17:35 Final Reflections and Takeaways

• See the show archives and sign up for episode updates