AI transformation isn’t just about tech—it’s about people.In this episode of TIDES, host Shveta Malhan sits down with Patti Blackstaffe—CEO of GlobalSway and executive leadership advisor—to unpack why AI projects succeed or fail based on stakeholder alignment, organizational readiness, and true HR–IT partnership.Takeaways- Stakeholder involvement is crucial for successful AI transformation.- HR and IT must collaborate to align their goals and processes.- Data management is essential for understanding employee insights.- Organizational change management should be a core competency across the organization.- Building a culture of agility is necessary for adapting to rapid changes.- A center of excellence can facilitate effective change management.- AI implementation requires a cross-functional approach.- Upskilling employees is vital for adapting to AI technologies.- Governance frameworks are needed to ensure ethical AI use.- Collective intelligence combines human and AI capabilities for better decision-making.Guest:Patti BlackstaffeCEO, GlobalSway | Transformation Advisor | Author of UPHEAVAL: An Executive's Guide to Organizational Digital Leadership🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattiblackstaffe🌐 https://globalsway.comHost:Shveta Malhan, Managing Partner, Yenza3🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan🌐 https://yenza3.comYenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.#ai #transformation #stakeholderengagement #hr #itleadership #organizationalchangemanagement #datamanagement #employeeinsights #governance #ethicalleadership #digitaltransformation #upskillingChapters0:00 Intro: Why stakeholder alignment matters 2:00 Patti’s journey from IT to transformation advisor 6:10 Data failures, CRM delays & transformation misfires 10:25 HR + IT: The partnership most orgs neglect 15:40 SFIA, skills mapping & internal talent marketplaces 21:05 Ethics, bias & governance in AI 27:15 Systemic leadership and the need for agile cultures 32:40 AI futures: Collective intelligence & flattening orgs 36:55 First steps to unite HR, IT, Finance & Marketing

In this episode of TIDES, host Shveta Malhan (Managing Partner and Co-founder at Yenza3) sits down with L&D expert Shahid Najmi to unpack how AI is reshaping corporate learning. Discover how generative AI accelerates content creation, personalizes upskilling, and frees your L&D team to focus on real business impact. Whether you’re an HR leader, L&D strategist, or simply curious about the future of work—this chat is a must-watch!About Shahid Najmi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/qazisn/Qazi Shahid Najmi is a global Learning & Development leader with extensive experience in transforming corporate training through innovative approaches and technology. With a career spanning major organizations, Shahid has led teams to rethink how learning experiences are designed, delivered, and scaled. Known for his forward-thinking strategies, Shahid is passionate about integrating AI to enhance personalization, streamline workflows, and democratize access to knowledge. Currently, he focuses on leveraging AI tools to accelerate content creation, optimize learning experiences, and drive meaningful behavior change within organizations.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.Subscribe for more episodes of TIDES, where we explore the transformational innovations driving enterprise strategies, especially in the age of AI.

Ready to see how AI can do the heavy lifting in your marketing and sales processes—without losing that critical human spark? In this episode of Tides, host Shveta Malhan (Yenza3 co-founder) chats with AI advocate and marketing maestro Rich King Gawlas about:• Evolving from “co-pilot” AI (where it augments your creativity) to “co-worker” AI (where it takes over entire tasks)• Real-world examples of AI-driven workflows that slash time in half and boost productivity• The mindset shift—and soft skills—teams need to truly collaborate with AI• Practical tips for tackling everything from ethics and data privacy to measuring ROIIf you’re hungry for tangible ways to harness AI and still keep your team’s unique voice intact, this one’s for you. Hit “play” and discover new ideas on blending AI into your business—faster, smarter, and more human than ever.Liked the episode? Give it a thumbs up, subscribe for more on the future of work, and share your biggest “aha moment” in the comments below!About Rich King Gawlas - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richkinggawlas/Rich King is a Customer Success leader who helps high-growth SaaS companies make AI work—faster. He’s led expansions, renewals, and six-figure ARR gains across marketing, healthcare, fintech, and EV charging sectors. Fueled by a passion for guiding teams to that critical “lightbulb moment,” Rich specializes in building first-rate CS operations for Series A and B organizations, driving both client success and business impact.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.Subscribe for more episodes of TIDES, where we explore the transformational innovations driving enterprise strategies, especially in the age of AI.#ArtificialIntelligence#AIforMarketing#AIinBusiness#AIAutomation#MarketingTrends#FutureOfWork#DigitalTransformation#CustomerSuccess#MarketingStrategy#MarketingInnovation#AIWorkflow#GrowthHacking#BusinessInnovation#HumanInTheLoop

In this game-changing episode of TIDES, host Shveta Malhan (Managing Partner at Yenza3) sits down with Sachi Kittur—a strategic powerhouse who’s led companies through 8–10x growth, built tech ventures that fuse people and data, and advised CEOs on revenue-driving talent strategies. Together, they tackle the big question: Are you still introducing yourself as “just HR,” or are you stepping up as a true business leader?What you’ll learn:1. How AI is reshaping the very fabric of work and why HR must lead the charge2. The mindset shift from “HR leader” to “business leader specializing in HR”3. Practical ways to speak the language of CEOs, CFOs, and CIOs to show real ROI4. How to balance automation with the human touch in a fast-evolving landscape5. Actionable tips on upskilling your HR team to become a core driver of business successIf you’re ready to stop waiting for a seat at the table—and start building your own—this episode is for you. About Sachi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachikittur/Sachi Kittur is a dynamic business strategist and innovator with a proven track record in scaling organizations by 8–10x. Drawing upon her deep expertise in both technology and human capital, she has advised CEOs on revenue-driven talent strategies and led transformative initiatives that merge people, data, and AI. From launching tech startups that streamline workforce insights to coaching executive teams on leadership impact, Sachi brings a uniquely holistic approach to growth. She’s passionate about reframing HR from a back-office function into a powerful business force—guiding leaders to embrace AI-driven solutions that enhance efficiency while preserving the human touch. Whether she’s orchestrating high-stakes transformation programs or developing agile workplace cultures, Sachi’s mission remains constant: to empower organizations to tap into their people’s full potential and drive sustainable, market-leading success.bout Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.Subscribe for more episodes of TIDES, where we explore the transformational innovations driving enterprise strategies, especially in the age of AI.#hrleadership #ai #businesstransformation #aiinhr #futureofwork #peopleanalytics #hrstrategy #talentmanagement #digitaltransformation #leadershipdevelopment #tidespodcast

Join us for TIDES Episode 21 as Shveta Malhan, Managing Partner & Co-Founder at Yenza3, chats with Susy Martins—a global HR leader and business strategist—about harnessing AI and Lean Six Sigma to elevate HR operations and drive enterprise-wide transformation.Topics Covered:• How AI is reshaping HR processes, from recruitment to retention• Why a business mindset plus Lean Six Sigma leads to data-driven decision-making• Practical strategies for HR leaders to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving Future of Work• Tips for integrating AI ethically and effectively in cross-functional teamsWhether you’re an HR professional, an executive, or simply curious about digital transformation, this episode offers insights on staying relevant, resilient, and ready for the AI revolution.About Susy Martins - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susy-martins-721421/Susy Martins is a global HR leader and executive coach known for guiding organizations through complex growth, transformation, and operational change. With a strong background in business scaling, financial operations, and leadership development, Susy has held key HR and executive roles at companies including Clearco, ApplyBoard, 3M, Manulife, and Allianz Partners. Drawing on her blend of business acumen and Lean Six Sigma expertise, she specializes in designing people strategies that drive innovation, efficiency, and a culture of continuous improvement. Susy’s passion for developing high-performing teams has positioned her as a sought-after advisor on modern HR practices, AI adoption, and organizational transformation.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.Subscribe for more episodes of TIDES, where we explore the transformational innovations driving enterprise strategies, especially in the age of AI.#ai #hr #leansixsigma #futureofwork #hrtransformation #digitaltransformation #businessstrategy #peopleanalytics #innovation #podcasts

Welcome to another episode of TIDES, where we explore cutting-edge ideas reshaping the business landscape. In this episode, we dive deep into AI Pods—dedicated teams that drive artificial intelligence integration within organizations.Joining us is Brandon Grant, Senior Vice President of Technology Operations at Vena Solutions. Brandon is at the forefront of AI adoption, leading Vena's AI Pod Initiative, a groundbreaking effort to embed AI seamlessly into enterprise operations.🔍 What We Cover:✅ How AI Pods are structured and why they matter✅ The challenges and successes of AI integration from a tech leader’s perspective✅ Strategies for prioritizing AI initiatives and measuring success✅ The evolving role of AI in transforming workflows and company culture✅ The future of AI adoption and governance in organizations💡 Key Takeaways:AI adoption is not just a technology shift—it’s a workforce transformation.Cross-functional teams play a critical role in AI implementation.AI governance and ethical AI usage must be transparent and structured.Organizations that successfully integrate AI will outperform their competitors.About Brandon Grant - https://www.linkedin.com/in/techexecbg/Brandon Grant is the Senior Vice President of Technology Operations at Vena Solutions, where he leads SaaS Technology, Core Engineering, and Enterprise IT. With over two decades of experience across startups, SMBs, and global enterprises, Brandon has a proven track record in driving technology transformation. He is the visionary behind his company’s AI Pod initiative, leveraging his expertise in AI integration to reshape how organizations adopt and scale artificial intelligence. Brandon’s leadership philosophy combines technical innovation with empathy, making him a trailblazer in enterprise transformation.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Let’s shape the future of work together.

A.I. is transforming corporate learning at an unprecedented pace, but how do we ensure it enhances—not replaces—the human learning experience? 🤖📚In this episode of TIDES, I sit down with Vince De Freitas, an AI and corporate learning expert at Docebo, to explore:✅ How GenAI is reshaping L&D beyond content creation✅ The biggest challenges in knowledge management and learning today✅ Why trust, personalization, and adaptability are key to AI-driven learning✅ The hidden role of AI in metadata, accessibility, and learning operations✅ What leaders should do NOW to integrate AI into learning strategiesAbout Vince - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincentdefreitas/Vince De Freitas is an AI and corporate learning strategist with a passion for merging technology, pedagogy, and enablement. With over a decade of experience spanning education, product strategy, and content solutions, he currently leads AI and content initiatives at Docebo, where he focuses on go-to-market strategy, AI research, and learning experience innovation.Previously, Vince held key roles at Shopify, Nelson Education, and Top Hat, where he drove instructional design, learning experience development, and digital transformation in corporate and educational settings. He is also an Ontario Certified Teacher and an advocate for leveraging AI to enhance learning accessibility, personalization, and efficiency.Beyond his professional work, Vince is an author, mentor, and an AI enthusiast dedicated to reimagining how organizations empower their employees through smarter learning solutions.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals.ABOUT YENZA3 – https://www.yenza3.comYenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution.Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization.Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.#AI #CorporateLearning #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #LearningAndDevelopment #GenAI #HRTech #AIInnovation #WorkplaceLearning #EmployeeDevelopment #EdTech #AIinL&D #AIforBusiness #PeopleAnalytics #Leadership #AIinEducation #AITransformation #AITrends #LMS #JustInTimeLearning #PersonalizedLearning

Curious about how AI is reshaping organizations and redefining roles? In this episode of Tides, host Shveta Malhan, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Yenza3, sits down with Olya Bogoyevich—a business transformation and digital strategy leader with over 18 years of experience. Olya shares practical tips on how leaders can unite around an AI vision, the best ways to bring employees on board, and why continuous learning is the real key to long-term success.What you’ll learn in this conversation:- Why AI-driven change is fundamentally different from past tech transformations- How leaders can champion the shift and empower employees through trust and transparency- Ways to identify early adopters and change champions in your organization- Strategies for addressing resistance to AI—and why it often stems from fear or misunderstanding- The essential role HR and People & Culture teams play in rethinking skills, development, and ethical considerationsAbout Olya Bogojevic - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olyabogoyevich/With over 18 years of experience spanning digital strategy, business transformation, and organizational change management, Olya has consistently delivered measurable results by aligning technology with strategic objectives. She’s led large-scale initiatives—focusing on agile methods, AI adoption, process optimization, and performance improvement—to help businesses innovate and thrive in rapidly evolving markets. Olya’s passion for continuous improvement, coupled with her expertise in stakeholder engagement and change enablement, has established her as a trusted advisor for organizations seeking sustainable growth.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Shveta is the Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that integrates A.I. and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, she is a recognized A.I. and HR strategist, specializing in people analytics, change management, and HR strategy for A.I. adoption.Previously the VP of People Insights & Innovation at Klick, Shveta led transformative initiatives that tackled fragmented people data, inconsistent employee listening, and talent discoverability challenges. Now, as the driving force behind Yenza3, she partners with organizations to navigate A.I. adoption, enhance workforce strategies, and create future-ready HR ecosystems.Passionate about the intersection of technology and human potential, Shveta is shaping the future of work through strategic insights, practical implementation, and a deep commitment to innovation.About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Let’s shape the future of work together.

In this episode, we’re joined by Kree Govender, SMB Canada Area Lead at Microsoft and AI evangelist, for an insightful conversation on the AI-driven workplace. 🤖✨🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ What defines an AI-driven workplace and why it’s crucial today✅ How AI is reshaping decision-making in HR, operations, and sales✅ Real-world AI applications that are boosting efficiency and productivity✅ The evolving role of AI agents and their impact on workflows✅ Why adaptability, AI literacy, and problem-solving are key skills for the future workforce✅ How businesses can foster psychological safety to enable AI experimentationThe AI revolution is here, and organizations must adapt quickly to stay competitive. Whether you're a leader navigating digital transformation, an HR professional, or a tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical insights and future-forward strategies. About Kree Govender - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kree-govender-12b2651b/Kree Govender is the SMB Canada Area Lead at Microsoft, a seasoned AI evangelist, and a visionary leader in cloud innovation and digital transformation. With a career spanning over two decades in business analysis, enterprise architecture, and program management, Kree is dedicated to leveraging AI to drive business efficiency, smarter decision-making, and workplace evolution. As a keynote speaker and industry thought leader, he is passionate about helping businesses harness AI for innovation and sustainable growth.🌐 More About His Work: iklipse.co.za | youconnect.co.zaAbout Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhan/Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that leverages AI and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage for organizations in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, I am passionate about challenging the status quo and applying cross-domain research to craft unique solutions for enabling people performance in alignment with business goals. About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Let’s shape the future of work together.#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #TechInnovation #AIWorkplace #MicrosoftAI #Azure #AIDrivenWork #AIinBusiness #MicrosoftCloud #Leadership #WorkplaceTransformation #AILeadership #BusinessInnovation #Productivity

In this episode, host Shveta Malhan dives into one of the most pressing challenges in HR today:💡 How deep should HR go as AI transforms the workplace?Joining us is Lydia Wu, a no-nonsense HR tech leader who has been at the forefront of HR transformation. With experience leading HR strategy, people analytics, and AI-driven solutions, Lydia shares raw, practical, and unfiltered insights on:🔹 Why HR still operates on outdated processes (think 1980s, but digital).🔹 How AI is finally enabling intelligent automation – but why HR must rethink its data and processes first.🔹 The existential moment for HR – will AI enhance or replace traditional HR functions?🔹 What HR leaders need to learn, unlearn, and relearn to stay relevant in the AI era.🔹 The role of data, vendors, and trust in shaping AI adoption.Lydia doesn’t hold back, and this conversation will make you rethink HR’s role in an AI-driven world. Whether you’re an HR leader, AI enthusiast, or someone navigating the workplace transformation, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and straight talk.About Lydia Wu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiaywu/Lydia Wu is a dynamic leader in HR technology, artificial intelligence, and people analytics, known for her sharp insights and no-nonsense approach to transforming HR functions. With a career spanning consulting, corporate HR, and HR tech innovation, Lydia has seen the industry from every angle—helping organizations bridge the gap between HR, technology, and business strategy.Currently, Lydia is the Founder & Creator of "Oops, Did I Think That Out Loud", where she shares candid, real-world perspectives on HR and tech. She is also a Partner at Avinash & Associates, advising on HR transformation and technology strategy, and serves as the Chairperson of DataDriven, a people analytics advisory council.Previously, Lydia held leadership roles at Panasonic Energy of North America, where she led People Strategy & Operations, and at Panasonic North America, spearheading HR strategy, technology, and talent analytics. Before that, she worked with Deloitte and Accenture, specializing in HR transformation.Lydia is passionate about demystifying HR tech, driving real impact through data, and helping HR professionals navigate AI with confidence—all while keeping it refreshingly real.About Shveta Malhan – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shvetamalhanShveta is the Managing Partner at Yenza3, a consulting firm that integrates A.I. and human capital innovation to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the digital era. With over 22 years of global, multi-industry experience, she is a recognized A.I. and HR strategist, specializing in people analytics, change management, and HR strategy for A.I. adoption.Previously the VP of People Insights & Innovation at Klick, Shveta led transformative initiatives that tackled fragmented people data, inconsistent employee listening, and talent discoverability challenges. Now, as the driving force behind Yenza3, she partners with organizations to navigate A.I. adoption, enhance workforce strategies, and create future-ready HR ecosystems.Passionate about the intersection of technology and human potential, Shveta is shaping the future of work through strategic insights, practical implementation, and a deep commitment to innovation.About Yenza3 – https://www.yenza3.com Yenza3 is more than consulting—we are strategic partners in every step of your AI evolution. Founded by a unique mix of HR, Digital, and Business leaders, we bring a powerful blend of hands-on business, technology, and people strategy capabilities to your organization. Our blend of real-world experience ensures we're equipped to demystify AI for businesses of all sizes, empowering your organization with people-led, people-centric AI solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Let’s shape the future of work together.