HR transformation involves many moving parts. A critical aspect of transformation is realising the potential of people and raising them to be courageous in the face of challenges. In this episode of People Matters Unplugged, our CEO Ester Martinez speaks to Archana Bhaskar, CHRO at Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, on the art of courage in business.

Let's rewind to some of the best moments of Season 1 so far in our interviews with Peck Kem Low, Sunil Setlur and Krating Poonpol. HR leaders are often seen as leading from the front, but in this candid snapshot of what it takes for leaders to bring their A-Game, we learn that it takes a great deal of self-care, commitment to growth and impact, and team spirit for leaders to set a positive example for their people.

In a diverse continent like Asia, the evolution of HR is happening parallel to another trend: the rise of a diverse and highly skilled talent pool. How can HR leaders ride the momentum? To answer this question and more, we ask a highly experienced leader who has a front-row seat to the talent trends in the region – Rajeshwar Tripathi, CHRO of the Automotive & Farm Sectors of Mahindra & Mahindra.

Thinking to blaze your own trail in HR? Meet Olivia Chua, CHRO at Jebsen & Jessen, whose own career path doesn't follow the conventional route. Olivia embraced work at an early age, was classically trained in statistics, learnt from HR and non-HR roles, and gained insights from her time working in major cities across the world. How does this tenacious global citizen bring flair into her work as HR leader? Olivia gives practical advice in this episode of People Matters Unplugged.

In the most innovative and collaborative work cultures, great leaders know that 'ideas come from everywhere'. Engaging with team members from all walks of life – and allowing them to turn ideas into action – is what results in an enriching experience at work. This episode of People Matters Unplugged features a champion of the concept of 'deep listening': Krating Poonpol, Group Chairman of KBTG. A seasoned professional who worked for Google at the heart of Silicon Valley, he brings an innovative mindset and a fresh take on talent development.

Krish Shankar is a pillar of talent development in India, providing the community with foresight into the future of talent and business in the region. With three decades of experience in human capital management, the author of 'Catalyse' has built stellar teams in some of the most talent-intensive industries, such as telecommunications and IT. In this episode, he uncovers ways to empower People & Culture teams to usher in transformation in the HR industry.

In our milestone episode, People Matters Unplugged celebrates International Women's Month by looking back at the lessons shared by three remarkable women: Monica Watt, Chin Yin Ong and Renu Bohra. The episode provides a recap of their own experiences of transforming the very spaces they inhabit as business leaders.

It is not only about breaking the “glass ceiling". Both, professional and personal empowerment of women, are not just an individual responsibility. It takes an entire community to increase this representation. Renu Bohra, Chief People Officer at logistics company DB Schenker explains in this episode of People Matters Unplugged.

Four principles form the cultural DNA of Grab, an organisation that has seen a remarkable period of growth and expansion across Southeast Asia. How does it maintain a vibrant culture? Chin Yin Ong, Grab's Chief People Officer, explains in this episode of People Matters Unplugged.