When you think of the government, you think old school and set in their ways, but not MTC. They are innovative, and agile, dedicated to upskilling and reskilling their already amazing talent. Knowing strategic planning and investment would be involved, MTC knew there was a need to build stronger leadership development within the organization. After partnering with AceUp, they now have a strategic, flexible approach to achieving a 3-year Learning and Development and DE&I initiative for developing their talent across the whole organization.

Nine To Thrive HR

Redefining Traditional Talent Development with Metropolitan Transportation Commission

We are beyond a time when employer branding is only meaningful to recruitment and retention.  Tiffany Myers, Director of Brand and Creative at Built In, shares with us the awesome impact a holistic brand has on our organizations. She says, “It is the sum total of every interaction we have with our candidates, our employees and our public.” The landscape warrants organizations to ensure ownership/control of the brand narrative and consider a shift to recruiting marketing as a tool.

Employer Brand: A Business Critical Discipline

In this episode of Nine To Thrive HR, Phoebe Anderson, the Executive Director of ATLAS Fellows, shares the program's thoughtful approach to developing the next generation of leaders in finance through internships. She emphasizes the importance of providing exposure and opportunities for talent from under-resourced communities, beyond just a pathway to full-time employment. Anderson shares the success story of Sandra, a first-generation Mexican immigrant who credits ATLAS Fellows for helping her find her professional passion and prepare for her future career. Listeners will gain insights into the value of internships and how ATLAS Fellows is making a difference in empowering young talent for career success.

ATLAS Fellows Building Pathways for Young Talent

Join host Cindi Koetzle as she delves into the world of workplace listening with global expert Oscar Trimboli on this episode of Nine to Thrive HR. Through listener questions, they explore the art of effective listening. Oscar shares easy to use tips for improving listening skills and achieving a better balance between speaking and listening in conversations. He highlights for us reminders including importance of understanding not just what is said, but what’s left unsaid as well as, a favorite to HCI, acknowledging the past during times of change/change initiatives. Whether you're an HR professional, a leader, or an individual looking to enhance your communication skills, this episode offers valuable insights to help you thrive in your HR journey.

Unlocking the Power of Workplace Listening

Geoff Webb joins Nine To Thrive to discuss AI as a tool to work in collaboration with human capabilities rather than replacing them. The discussion ranges from leveraging AI to personalizing employee experiences, and correlating efficacy with data input. Despite initial job displacement fears, a survey reveals growing openness among employees toward AI's beneficial impact. 

Looking forward, the conversation predicts future HR themes around AI, urging discussions on policies and ethics. The discussion advocates for a proactive, gradual adoption approach, encouraging readiness for AI's transformative potential in HR while prioritizing ethical implementation.

Supplement Human Capabilities: AI's Role in HR Transformation

In this podcast episode, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Jason Cerrato, VP of Market strategy at Eightfold, about skills-based talent planning. This approach differs from traditional planning through its expansion into skills intelligence and its focus on work planned for the future.  Jason explains benefits of skills-based planning including improved visibility into workforce skills, expanded candidate consideration, and support for diversity goals. Adopting skills-based planning will be eased with technology, AI and strategic workforce discussions. We further discuss challenges of adoption, skill assessment and career development. This is a must listen for any organization considering adoption of skills-based talent planning!

Skills Based Talent Planning for Visibility, Opportunity and Inclusion

Join host Cindi Koetzle in this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR" as she dives into the topic of outcomes versus outputs with guest expert Janice Fraser. Janice, a partner and senior strategist at Janice Fraser Consulting, brings her extensive experience in Silicon Valley and beyond to explore the philosophy behind valuing outcomes over plans. Together, they discuss how modern businesses can navigate dynamic environments by orienting honestly towards goals, leveraging the collective intelligence of teams, value outcomes and making durable decisions. Through practical examples and insightful discussions, listeners gain valuable insights into transforming leadership approaches to drive innovation and achieve extraordinary results. Tune in to discover how embracing outcome-oriented road mapping can revolutionize your organization's approach to HR, talent management, and business strategy.

Outcome-Oriented Roadmapping: Moving Farther, Faster and with Less Drama

In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Tricia Binder, co-founder and president of the global art activation agency, Muros. The conversation delves into Tricia's journey from working in consumer-packaged goods to founding Muros, highlighting her passion for workplace dynamics and diversity of thought. Tricia discusses how her experiences with workplace cultures inspired her to create an inclusive and engaging work environment at Muros. She emphasizes the importance of slowing down to maintain quality, foster a positive workplace, and avoid long-term negative impacts. As a unique listening bonus, Tricia also shares insights on how Muros connects brands with artists to create meaningful community connections through art, while also providing artists with a platform to showcase their work. This episode underscores the value of intentionality in building a positive workplace culture and the benefits of taking time to reflect and reset in a fast-paced environment.

A Reminder: The Value of Slowing Down in Fast-Paced Environments

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle engages in an insightful conversation with Jenny Cotie Kangas, Director of Talent Centered Transformation at Eightfold AI. Jenny shares her expertise in HR technology, focusing on the evolution of work and the need for organizations to adopt a skills-based approach to talent management. We cite projections from the World Economic Forum about the need to reskill 375 million people by 2025 and the priority this raises for organizations to fulfill this need. Jenny emphasizes that the traditional systems of record, like applicant tracking systems, are static and unable to keep pace with the dynamic nature of human skills. She advocates for the implementation of systems of intelligence to enhance agility and address skills gaps. The episode highlights the critical need for organizations to evolve their talent practices and invest in adaptive HR technologies that can support continuous learning and diversity. The discussion concludes with a call to action for HR professionals to embrace change and lead the transformation needed to prepare for the future of work.

Skills, Data, and Diversity:  Preparing for the Workforce of Tomorrow

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle interviews Carol Bowser, a workplace conflict expert and former employment lawyer, to discuss the persistent issue of conflict in the workplace. They explore how conflict often stems from unmet expectations and differences in communication styles, exacerbated by generational shifts and workforce turnover. Bowser emphasizes the importance of addressing conflict through clear communication, fostering trust and respect, and developing conflict resolution skills as core workplace competencies.

Conflict and Expectations: Making the Invisible Visible

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle discusses menopause in the workplace with guests Cassandra Pratt, CHRO, and Cynthia McEwen, VP of People and DEI at Progyny. The conversation addresses the challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause, including physical, emotional, and professional impacts. The two highlight innovative approaches such as tailored benefits, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and cultural initiatives designed to normalize discussions about midlife health and foster inclusivity. The episode underscores the importance of compassion, breaking taboos, and enhancing workplace productivity and morale.

From Taboo to Talked About: Menopause and the Workplace

In this episode of "Nine to Thrive HR," host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Benjamin McCall, Principal of Focus Consulting, sharing insights from his lifetime career, highlighting the integration of strategic business thinking into Human Resource (HR) practice.  The conversation covers key topics such as workforce challenges post-pandemic, the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, and the future of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).  They dive into the evolving drift of flexible work arrangements, reskilling, and empathy in leadership. Benjamin concludes the episode by reflecting on the lessons learned in 2024, emphasizing the need for thoughtful, strategic planning in organizational growth.

Return to Office, Reskilling and Inclusion: HR Shake-Ups for 2025

Link to survey report - https://eightfold.ai/2024-talent-survey/

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Sachit Kamat, Chief Product Officer at Eightfold AI, to discuss the evolving role of HR in business strategy, talent management, and the integration of AI. They explore insights from Eightfold’s recent global survey highlighting challenges such as HR's alignment with business goals and employee perceptions of growth tools. Sachit shares examples of the transformative potential of AI in HR processes, emphasizing responsible implementation and its role in enabling strategic HR partnerships. The episode provides actionable takeaways for HR professionals navigating AI and the future of talent strategies in 2025

2025 Trends: HR, AI, and the Future of Talent Strategy

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle sits down with Jenni Kovach, Chief People Officer at IGS Energy, and Alissa Durbin, VP of HR, to discuss the evolution of their HR function. They explore how IGS Energy’s "People Are Why" (PAW) team has transformed HR from a reactive function into a true strategic partner, leveraging people analytics, holistic employee well-being initiatives, and skills-based hiring. Jenni and Alissa share insights on leadership, compensation transparency, and fostering a culture of conscious capitalism. Don’t miss this compelling story of how a well-known energy organization turned their focus on employee engagement into a thriving HR business model and the valuable lessons learned along the way. 

The PAW Team Effect: Driving Business Growth Through People

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle is joined by Seth Turner, Founder and Senior Advisor at AbsenceSoft, to explore the growing complexities of leave and accommodation in the workplace. They break down the biggest insights from our 2025 State of Leave and Accommodations Report, based on a survey of 2,400 employees and HR managers.  Leave requests are rising, increased demand for mental health support is a growing factor, and compliance remains a challenge—so what does this mean for HR?  We’ll share findings leading to why leave and accommodations requests are increasing, how employers can balance compliance with employee support, and the biggest FMLA mistakes to avoid. Plus, we’ll explore the importance of manager training and how technology can streamline processes while preserving a positive employee experience. 

Inside the 2025 Leave and Accommodations Report: HR’s Role in the Employee Experience

As big brands pull back on DEI&B, small and midsize businesses are stepping up. In this episode, Opal Wagnac shares why DEI&B is more than a trend — it’s a business necessity. She explores how SMBs are uniquely positioned to lead with inclusion, close the gender gap, and create workplaces where everyone belongs. From allyship to the bottom-line benefits of belonging, this conversation offers real insights for HR leaders navigating today’s evolving workforce.

Equity at Every Level: From the Boardroom to the Breakroom

Heidi Barnett, President, Talent Acquisition Solutions at isolved, joins Nine to Thrive HR for a deep dive into the future of hiring and employee experience. Heidi shares how ApplicantPro’s full integration into isolved is helping organizations streamline recruiting, enhance employer branding and create more engaging candidate journeys. She also unpacks the critical balance between AI-powered efficiency and the human elements that make a workplace thrive. Tune in for actionable insights on how HR leaders can attract top talent, improve retention and build people-first cultures in today’s competitive landscape.

Redefining Talent Acquisition & Employee Experience in the Age of AI

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle talks with Jessica Wright, Founder and CEO of Wright Workforce Solutions, about redefining what HR looks like for small and growing businesses. Jessica shares her journey from nonprofit leadership to building a thriving minority- and woman-owned firm that offers hands-on HR, payroll, recruiting, and strategy support to small businesses. Together, they explore how businesses can overcome challenges like delegation, resource access, and talent management—while staying mission-driven and prioritizing strategy and growth.

Scaling Smart: HR Support that Grows With You

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Carmen Amador, organizational psychologist and community lead at Oyster, about the evolving world of work. They explore the rise of fractional leadership roles, the value of flexibility, and how companies can strategically leverage part-time experts. As a bonus topic, Carmen offers a fresh perspective on women’s well-being and human centered leadership through an informed conversation on women’s menstrual cycles and alignment with work. 

Fractional, Flexible and Future-Ready: Redesigning Our Workplace

In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Dr. Meesha Dogan, CEO of Cardio Diagnostics, to explore how AI and epigenetics are transforming cardiovascular health in the workplace. They discuss the ripple effects of heart disease on productivity, benefits costs, and team dynamics—and how employers can take a proactive role through technology-driven prevention and wellness strategies. With a focus on actionable insights and employee well-being, this episode offers HR leaders new ways to support health and retention across their organizations.

Matters of the Heart: A Business Case for Well-Being

Why are fast-moving teams moving away from full-time hires? In this episode, we speak with Yakov Filippenko, founder of Intch, a platform connecting professionals through intent-based, AI-powered networking. Yakov shares how part-time and project-based work is no longer a fallback option — it’s becoming the smart, strategic choice for startups, lean teams, and even big companies looking to stay flexible. We talk about the shift in mindset post-layoffs, the rise of global talent through nomad visas, and how hiring today is less about résumés and more about solving real business problems. From AI bias in recruitment to the hidden value of “non-traditional” candidates, this episode explores what hiring looks like when we stop playing by outdated rules.

Why More Teams Are Choosing Part-Time Talent, with Intch Founder Yakov Filippenko

In this episode, we sit down with Sharthok Chakraborty, a former HR practitioner turned tech executive to explore the evolving world of performance management and the growing role of AI in shaping the future of work. We discuss the inspiration behind founding Klaar, the challenges of building tools that solve real workplace problems, and how empathy and human judgment can be preserved in AI-enabled solutions.

From eliminating friction in performance reviews to ensuring insights turn into real action, we dive deep into the opportunities and risks AI presents for people leaders. Sharthok shares his vision for the next five years of performance management, the broader impact of AI in talent management, and what he hopes the future of work will finally get right, without losing what matters most.

Whether you’re an HR leader, a tech innovator, or simply curious about the intersection of people and technology, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-looking ideas to help navigate what’s next.

From HR to Tech: Sharthok Chakraborty on Reinventing Performance Management with AI

Payroll fraud is evolving and small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are in the crossfire. In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, Steve Lenderman, Head of Fraud Prevention, unpacks the rising threat of payroll fraud and why SMBs are often the easiest targets. With schemes averaging $2,800 in losses per month and going undetected for over a year, the stakes are higher than ever.

Inside Payroll Fraud: How SMBs Can Fight Back Without Breaking the Bank

What can HR learn from a company with 350,000 independent agents and 8,000 employees spread across 100+ countries? In this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle sits down with Tanya Reu-Narvaez, Chief People Officer at Anywhere Real Estate—the umbrella behind brands including Century 21, Coldwell Banker, and Sotheby’s International Realty. Tanya shares how the organization moved from 92% in-office to a remote-first model and, counterintuitively, became more connected. She unpacks the practices that broke down brand silos—enterprise learning, cross-company teaming, ERGs with 20% active participation, “Focus Fridays,” and a common culture codified as The Anywhere Way—and how those choices drove retention to a five-year high. The conversation also explores reimagined onboarding via the new People Hub and practical wins with GenAI (think job descriptions in minutes), plus what’s next: “Next-Level HR,” a shift to People Enablement, human-centric leadership, and skills-based talent strategies. It’s a field guide to building connection at scale—remote, hybrid, or otherwise.

Scaling Connection: An HR Field Guide from Anywhere Real Estate

On this episode of Nine to Thrive HR, host Cindi Koetzle chats with Kerry Hecht, Founder and CEO of 10K Humans, to explore the powerful intersection of market research and HR. Drawing on decades in an empathy-driven research field and her experience as a small-business owner, Kerry explains how customer insights translate into people strategies: attracting the right candidates, strengthening engagement, and retaining talent. The conversation unpacks why validated feedback loops matter, how employee engagement correlates with customer satisfaction, and what to do about common pitfalls—stakeholder bias, “respondent fatigue,” and the gap between stated values and lived experience. Kerry highlights the rise of personalization at scale through data and technology, and offers practical ways HR can borrow from research playbooks—continuous listening, iterative refinement, and persona development (including AI-assisted personas) to bring workforce data to life. Whether you’re designing programs, influencing senior stakeholders, or steering change one “toothpick turn” at a time, this episode delivers actionable ideas to make organizations more human-centric and competitive.

Engagement In, Satisfaction Out: The HR-Customer Connection

Host Cindi Koetzle welcomes Robert Hargrove—author and founder of the Harvard Leadership Research Project, Masterful Coaching.  Hargrove offers a window into his current experiences of HR practitioners existing in organizations' pre strategic business partner model.  A bold reminder to continue the work of capability building to prepare, partner and perform alongside the business to elevate strategic HR roles into trusted, collaborative and valuable players.  After Hargrove shares his observations of underutilized HR professionals, they talk change management, crafting a shared vision and building alignment—the latter demanding far more time, intention, and relationship-building. If you are interested in learning more about the Strategic Human Resource Business Partner model certification course, check us out at hci.org

A Mixed Bag Session: Outdated HR, Change Management and Finding Alignment

Host Cindi Koetzle welcomes David Ly, CEO and Founder of Iveda, for a practical conversation on how AI is moving from buzzword to business-critical tool in HR, learning, and operations. Drawing on more than two decades in AI-powered video and vision technology, David explains why AI is suddenly “everywhere” now—affordable computing power, accessible interfaces, and off-the-shelf solutions—despite having been in the background of our lives for years in tools like streaming recommendations and automated data organization. He and Cindi explore how AI can transform onboarding and training by using video, computer vision, and augmented reality to capture best practices from tenured employees, provide real-time guidance to new hires, and act as a “force multiplier” for coaches and trainers. They also tackle employee concerns about job loss, reframing AI as a shift in roles rather than a replacement for humans, and discuss how better training, fewer errors, and faster support ultimately improve customer experience and ROI.

From Buzzword to Backbone: How AI Is Transforming Onboarding and Training

After surveying over 1,000 HR leaders, AbsenceSoft's 2026 State of Leave and Accommodations report revealed that the nature of leave and accommodations requests has fundamentally shifted in ways most compliance professionals aren't prepared for. For the third year running, caseloads continue climbing, but it's not just the volume that's changed. The types of requests employees are making, the tools HR teams are using to manage them, and the compliance risks lurking in seemingly helpful shortcuts are creating a perfect storm. If you're still managing your programs the way you did three years ago, or if you think AI is just a future concern, this conversation will change how you think about risk, resources, and what it takes to stay compliant in 2026.

The Road Ahead for 2026: What 1,200 HR Leaders Told Us About Leave and Accommodations

Performance leadership transformation mean’s a new kind of leader is in town: one who thrives in being purpose-driven, curious and agile. Today’s best performance management leaders start conversations by asking the right questions, and they know that it’s not about having all the answers. It’s about having the best questions that create trust in meaningful communication with employees and team members.

The “Leading with Questions” model demonstrates a practice that is just that: a practice. The key to success comes from realistic expectations and development over time. 

Join Karen Hutchison, Executive Coach at Ernst & Young, to learn how to start leading with questions, and make authentic connections that drive engagement where you work.

Learn more about the 2018 Performance Coaching & Development Conference: http://www.hci.org/pcd-conference/2018

Wait… So Feedback Should Start with a Question?

How can HR professionals reset their important work to make a greater impact for the business and its people? On this episode, we speak with Chris Mullen, Executive Director of The Workforce Institute at Kronos, about how HR and people mangers can develop better partnerships. We discuss insights from our latest HCI and Kronos research report. We share actionable findings that optimize the HR and business partnership and maximize the ripple effect that HR makes on the business.  

Check out the research report here: https://www.hci.org/research/great-reset-how-high-performing-organizations-build-hr-business-partnerships-thrive

Maximizing the Ripple Effect of HR on the Entire Business

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