Every few years, a leader comes along who quietly redefines a role. In this episode, that leader is Lauren Duprey, Chief Human Resource Officer at Decata, a $30B global biopharma company with 55,000 employees.

Lauren’s path to the CHRO seat defies convention. From studying genetics at Harvard to consulting at the intersection of science and business, she discovered that behind every commercial challenge was ultimately a people problem. What propelled her forward was not a traditional HR playbook, but apprenticeship, sponsorship, and the courage to step into roles before she felt fully ready.

Together, we explore why the best CHROs do not always come from traditional backgrounds, how internal succession works when it is built on trust and partnership, and how AI is fundamentally reshaping the role of HR itself. Lauren is among the first CHROs treating AI agents as part of the workforce, not tools, but teammates leaders must learn to plan for, develop, and lead alongside humans.

This is a conversation about what HR was, what it is, and what it is about to become, and what leadership looks like in a future defined by constant transformation.

What happens when one of the great HR leaders of a generation is told they aren't going to live to see their kids grow up? Our guest this week, Tim Huval, has lived through it, literally.

Dan Kaplan and Tim talk about how Tim's medical crisis reshaped his approach to work, family, and everything in his life.

You don't want to miss this conversation.

In this episode of Wake Up HR, Dan Kaplan interviews Christina Schelling, Senior Vice President and Chief Talent Officer at Verizon. Christina shares her unique career journey from the CIA to corporate HR, highlighting the lessons learned in predictive analytics, team dynamics, and the importance of mentorship. She discusses the challenges and strategies in navigating the return to office during the pandemic and the transformative role of AI in talent management at Verizon. Christina emphasizes the need for a human touch in the age of AI and the importance of leadership development in preparing for the future of work.

Summary

In this inaugural episode of Wake Up HR, Dan Kaplan interviews Kevin Cox, a seasoned HR leader, discussing the evolution of HR from its early days as 'Personnel' to its current strategic role in organizations. They explore the challenges faced by modern HR leaders, the importance of purpose in leadership, and the impact of AI on the future of HR. Kevin shares valuable lessons from his career, emphasizing the significance of feedback, personal development, and the role of HR in shaping company culture. The conversation highlights the need for HR to adapt and embrace change while maintaining a focus on talent and organizational effectiveness.