Are you ready to future-proof your HR game?  Join Dr. Dieter Veldsman on The CHRO Mindset Podcast as he shares how HR can embrace AI, build inclusive teams, and focus on what really matters.  Key topics covered in this HR podcast: Why 74% of AI projects fail and how to avoid common pitfalls. The essential skills HR professionals need to thrive in 2025. How to balance technology with humanity in a multi-generational workforce. Practical steps to build trust, drive results, and scale AI in HR.  Whether you’re an HR leader, CHRO, or someone passionate about the future of work, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead of the curve.  Listen to the full podcast on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2zEJ10fX_qw 

Season 1 of The CHRO Mindset Podcast was nothing short of extraordinary—and if you missed it, you missed a revolution in HR thought leadership!  Listen today on Spotify: [https://open.spotify.com/show/6JYwgOeKsiHNhlcLgR1NLs] With over 30 HR leaders, including Krishna Raghawan, Janani Prakash, Smita Venkatraman, Aravind Warrier, Nandini Mehta, Manan Sharma, and more, Season 1 was packed with practical strategies that redefined what it means to lead in HR.Don’t worry—the legacy of Season 1 lives on, and it’s only the beginning. 

In this episode, Vanesa shares her expert insights on optimizing HR practices and employee onboarding. She advocates for ongoing feedback practices, stressing that regular, real-time feedback is more effective than infrequent performance reviews. Vanesa also explores the common pitfalls in HR, emphasizing the importance of integrating HR with business operations to enhance organizational success.She discusses the trend towards hyper-personalized onboarding experiences and the importance of tailoring onboarding processes to individual preferences. For remote workplaces, Vanesa highlights the need for consistent communication and the right balance between technology and personal interaction.Vanesa also addresses the use of emerging technologies like VR and augmented reality, noting their potential in fields such as aviation while cautioning that these tools must fit the specific needs of an industry. Finally, she recommends *Atomic Habits* by James Clear, praising its approach to making small, impactful changes—a strategy she finds invaluable for HR professionals facing limited resources.Tune in for practical advice on improving feedback systems, integrating HR with business strategies, and leveraging technology in onboarding. 

In this episode, the guest shares valuable insights drawn from a career spanning multiple industries and leadership roles. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear, embracing bravery, and working collaboratively with others to achieve the impossible. A pivotal moment in his journey was meeting Stephen Covey, whose teachings profoundly influenced his leadership philosophy. This encounter set the stage for a career focused on transformative leadership, which he applied at companies like Dell, Disney, and Apple, driving significant cultural and organizational change.The discussion also delves into the role of HR in shaping organizational culture and innovation. The guest highlights the critical importance of building cultures that people love—both employees and customers alike. He shares strategies for reimagining meetings, transforming teams into brain trusts, and supercharging culture through co-creation. He further explores the evolving role of HR leadership in the era of AI, emphasizing the need for HR to move beyond traditional functions and become co-creators of the future alongside other leaders.This episode is a must-listen for HR professionals and leaders seeking to drive innovation, foster strong cultures, and lead with courage and collaboration in an ever-changing landscape. 

In this episode, our guest shares their journey overcoming major HR challenges and driving organizational success. They discuss their experiences at Landmark and Metro Brands, where they tackled fragmented HR functions and developed cohesive strategies. Key insights include the importance of understanding business needs, adapting HR strategies, and using metrics like employee productivity and training ROI. The guest also highlights innovative HR initiatives, such as a career progression program that reduced high attrition rates and boosted engagement. Tune in to explore how HR can align with business goals, especially in a remote work environment, and discover the impact of effective technology solutions in driving success.

In this insightful podcast, our host, Pulkit Joshi, engages in a comprehensive conversation with Manav Jain, an experienced HR professional, covering various crucial aspects of the HR landscape.  The discussion kicks off with the hypothetical scenario of HR having a magic wand and explores the key workplace issue Manav would solve instantly. He emphasizes the significance of connecting employees with the organization\'s vision, mission, and purpose. Manav delves into his own experiences, sharing a pivotal moment when he transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges, this shift provided invaluable learnings about running a business, strategic partnership, and resource management The conversation seamlessly moves to the role of gamification in HR, exploring its transformative impact on traditional processes. Manav explains the principles behind gamification and illustrates its application in areas such as compliance and employee engagement.  He specifically addresses how gamification can enhance the onboarding process, turning it into an engaging quest for new hires. The discussion shifts to the influence of Generation Z on the HR landscape, highlighting their distinct characteristics and expectations. Manav offers practical insights on managing generational differences, emphasizing a thoughtful approach in designing HR processes to cater to the unique needs of each generation. The podcast concludes with a focus on building high-performance teams, considering the diverse characteristics of team members from different generations. Manav emphasizes the importance of clear goals, defined roles, open communication, and effective conflict management in fostering a positive team environment. The host also asks Manav about measuring the impact of automation on HR processes. Drawing on his experience, Manav provides a framework for assessing the efficiency, accuracy, cost savings, transparency, employee experience, data-driven insights, and security aspects influenced by HR automation. The conversation wraps up with a reflection on influential literature, with Manav highlighting the impact of Paulo Coelho\'s \"The Alchemist\" on his leadership journey and sharing a valuable lesson from his onboarding experience at Murugappa. 

In this episode, we had the privilege of engaging with Professor Rahul Sheel, who shared pivotal moments that have shaped his illustrious career. Professor Sheel\'s journey began with an inherent curiosity about team dynamics in his workplace, which ignited his passion for organizational behavior. This curiosity evolved into a profound career, marked by a commitment to understanding and enhancing how organizations function.  Professor Sheel delves into his teaching philosophy, explaining its evolution over time. He emphasizes the necessity of adapting to diverse learning styles and addressing the distinct needs of MBA students and executive training cohorts. His approach underscores the importance of flexibility and personalization in education, ensuring that future leaders are well-equipped to tackle the complexities of the business world.  The conversation takes a forward-looking turn as Professor Sheel outlines the future challenges that HR professionals will face. In a rapidly changing business landscape driven by technological advancements, continuous learning and adaptability become paramount. He highlights the crucial role of HR in fostering a culture of innovation and agility within organizations. This includes managing resistance to change and addressing the emotional and psychological aspects that employees experience during transitions.  A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the importance of collaboration, coaching, and mentoring in driving successful organizational transformations. Professor Sheel emphasizes that these elements are essential for developing effective change leadership capabilities. By nurturing a supportive environment, HR professionals can empower employees to navigate and embrace change confidently.  Professor Sheel also shares his insights on the transformative potential of HR technology, particularly artificial intelligence. He advocates for the integration of these advancements into HR education, preparing future leaders to leverage technology effectively. This integration is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.  Throughout the episode, Professor Sheel reflects on personal experiences that have influenced his perspective on leadership and change management. He discusses the impact of Brené Brown’s book \"Daring Greatly,\" which emphasizes the power of vulnerability in leadership. He also shares a poignant anecdote from his time in Chhattisgarh, India, illustrating the importance of continuous learning and staying open to new experiences.  In conclusion, this episode offers a wealth of insights for HR professionals and leaders striving to navigate the complexities of organizational change. Professor Sheel\'s experiences and reflections provide valuable lessons on adaptability, innovation, and the human side of change. Stay tuned to our podcast channel for more episodes that promise to deliver impactful insights and strategies to help you grow in your career like never before. 

We kick off the podcast with a thought-provoking discussion on historical leadership, examining Hitler\'s leadership style and considering how different approaches might have averted global conflict. This leads into an engaging conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion in HR. Our guest shares personal experiences transitioning from sales to HR and implementing inclusive practices in the gems and jewelry industry. Next, we delve into the invaluable advice our guest received early in their career, highlighting the importance of honesty and recognizing others\' contributions. We then address common misconceptions about HR\'s role in crisis management, emphasizing the critical need for collaboration and adaptability.  The episode also explores the role of technology in HR, advocating for a balanced approach with human oversight to prevent biases in AI algorithms. Our conversation concludes with a documentary recommendation from our guest, providing further insights and reflections.  Tune in for a captivating journey through the multifaceted world of HR, filled with expert insights and practical advice. 

Join us as a seasoned HR leader, Sanjeeb Lahiri, shares invaluable insights and experiences from their extensive career journey. Discover actionable lessons on leadership, navigating change, and fostering cultural adaptation within global organizations. In this episode, our guest reflects on the most rewarding aspects of their role in HR, emphasizing the daily opportunity to positively impact lives, nurture talent, and align business goals with human potential. They delve into overcoming challenges faced with globally dispersed teams, recounting their strategic approach as an HR Business Partner in unifying teams spread across diverse geographies. Learn how they tackled cultural differences through effective communication strategies and immersive offsite experiences. The discussion extends to the complexities of implementing transformative technologies like ERP systems, highlighting the critical role of communication, hands-on engagement, and setting clear transition milestones. Throughout the conversation, cultural sensitivity emerges as a pivotal theme, as our guest advocates for understanding and embracing diversity while maintaining a cohesive organizational culture rooted in shared values. They underscore the importance of transparent, two-way communication in driving successful change initiatives. Furthermore, the episode explores the evolving role of AI in HR decision-making, with insights on balancing technological advancements with human intelligence and oversight. Finally, our guest shares personal influences from books like \"Who Moved My Cheese\" and \"The Art of Thinking Clearly,\" offering profound perspectives on navigating change and fostering self-awareness in leadership. Tune in for a compelling discussion that promises actionable strategies and deep insights into the dynamic world of HR leadership. 

In this episode, Debashesh tackles key HR challenges, emphasizing managing candidate expectations and fostering career evolution.  He delves into fostering innovation, aligning recruitment with goals, and addressing biases in AI tools.  Debashesh\'s insights, coupled with book recommendations, offer invaluable guidance for HR professionals navigating talent management. 

Meenakshi Chhillar is a seasoned HR expert with 18 years of global experience, boasting leadership roles in the US and India. Her expertise spans diverse HR domains including talent management, performance, and change management.  Meenakshi\'s background in IT consulting and product-based organizations enriches her insights. Alongside her professional achievements, she\'s an avid yoga practitioner.  Currently, as the Head of India HR at Gainsight, she oversees all people functions in the region. With past affiliations at Publicis, Sapient, and Vedom Infotech, Meenakshi brings a wealth of knowledge to the CHRO Mindset podcast. 

In this discussion, Dr. Rasheed talks about a big gap he\'s noticed in how companies do performance reviews. Instead of just checking boxes once a year, he thinks companies should focus more on helping employees grow their skills. He\'s even planning to make a documentary to help companies pick the best way to do this.  Dr. Rasheed shares a story about facing pushback when introducing new HR rules. He learned that it\'s better to talk with everyone involved and listen to their worries. This way, everyone feels heard and is more likely to support the changes.  He also talks about how coaching and mentoring programs should be different for different levels of leaders. For example, mentoring is more about long-term growth, while coaching is about improving specific skills quickly.  Dr. Rasheed also shares some tips on using technology (like automation) to make workplaces more inclusive and diverse. He explains how he tackled this challenge in his past jobs.  Lastly, he talks about some books that changed how he leads. These books helped him understand people better and become a better leader overall. 

In this episode of the CHRO Mindset podcast, Pulkit Joshi sits down with Janani Prakaash, Head of People and Culture at Genzeon, a seasoned HR leader with over 17 years of experience.  Janani shares insights into her leadership journey, drawing parallels between HR and the element of fire, symbolizing warmth, illumination, and transformative power. She highlights the importance of continuous learning and diverse experiences in personal growth amidst a dynamic professional landscape. Janani discusses pivotal career decisions and the value of calculated risks, underscoring the role of diverse experiences in professional development. The conversation delves into navigating mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from an HR perspective. Janani emphasizes the significance of effective communication, transparency, and culture integration in ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the benefits of M&A. She provides actionable strategies for HR leaders to balance stakeholder needs and foster a positive employee experience during such transitions. Additionally, Janani shares insights on motivating employees during unprecedented challenges, advocating for supportive leadership, transparent communication, and employee engagement as key pillars. She explores the role of company culture in supporting leadership resilience and discusses the transformative impact of HR technology on the function, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation.

In this podcast, Prosenjit shares insights on crucial HR skills for 2025, emphasizing the shift from support roles to strategic business enablers post-COVID. He highlights the importance of aligning HR practices with business objectives and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Regarding fostering community among remote employees, Prosenjit discusses their hybrid work setup and flexible location policy to accommodate diverse needs. He emphasizes quarterly meetups and family engagement to promote cohesion and belongingness.  Prosenjit also addresses the rise of remote work and technological advancements, advocating for a balanced approach that combines technological tools with human touch. He emphasizes continuous learning and strategic thinking to drive meaningful impact within organizations.  In discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Prosenjit shares strategies for minimizing biases in recruitment and promoting gender diversity. He emphasizes the business benefits of diversity and inclusion, highlighting success stories from diverse teams. Regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, Prosenjit discusses their commitment to sustainability and initiatives to reduce carbon footprint. He emphasizes the importance of aligning ESG practices with market needs and integrating sustainability into core business practices. Prosenjit also addresses challenges like layoffs, emphasizing transparency, ethical practices, and unwavering support for employees. He shares strategies for maintaining morale and productivity during challenging times. 

In our conversation with Krishna, we explore various facets of HR and organizational leadership.  From identifying fictional HR characters to discussing lessons learned from mentors, Krishna shares profound insights. He delves into the application of design thinking principles to talent attraction and retention, emphasizing the importance of keeping the employee at the center of HR practices.  Drawing from his experiences, Krishna illustrates how design thinking can reshape traditional HR processes, such as onboarding and benefits programs, for the better. Krishna also reflects on the connection between employee engagement and overall business performance, highlighting the role of happy employees in driving positive outcomes.  He discusses strategies for balancing professional growth opportunities with work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of empowering employees to make choices aligned with their aspirations.  Furthermore, Krishna sheds light on the transformative potential of generative AI in talent management and career progression, citing practical examples from his tenure at Flipkart.  Finally, he shares insights into the book \"Good to Great\" by James Collins, a cornerstone of his leadership journey, and its profound impact on shaping enduring, exceptional companies. 

In this podcast, we delve deep into the future of HR, exploring the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the age of automation and evolving workplace dynamics. Our guest, Aravind Warrior, a seasoned HR professional, shares invaluable insights garnered from his extensive experience. From envisioning the future of HR amidst the rise of AI and Generation AI to discussing the crucial role of leadership in fostering resilience and adaptability, Aravind provides thought-provoking perspectives on navigating the ever-changing landscape of human resources. Through engaging discussions on topics ranging from emotional intelligence in leadership to the intersection of diversity, inclusion, and equity in the age of automation, Aravind emphasizes the importance of aligning technological advancements with human-centric values. Drawing from personal experiences and influential literature such as \"Start With Why\" by Simon Sinek, Aravind underscores the significance of purpose-driven leadership and its profound impact on organizational culture and success. Join us as we explore the intricate interplay between technology, leadership, and human capital, gaining valuable insights into shaping the future of HR in a rapidly evolving world. 

In this Podcast (The CHRO Mindset), Anupam shares his personal HR mantra, drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing the importance of performing duties without attachment to outcomes and maintaining equanimity in challenging situations. We explore Anupam\'s experience in convincing leadership to invest in new HR initiatives, where he navigated the balance between cost considerations and scalability, ultimately driving adoption for long-term benefits. Anupam also shares a compelling story of revitalizing a struggling HR department, where he implemented innovative solutions to improve offer acceptance rates and streamline recruitment processes. Furthermore, we discuss strategies for cultivating emotional intelligence (EI) among HR teams, emphasizing the importance of workshops, leadership development, feedback mechanisms, and inclusive culture. In addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Anupam underscores the need for collaboration between employees and leadership, leveraging data-driven strategies, community outreach, and talent development. The conversation extends to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in streamlining HR processes, where Anupam highlights opportunities for automation in recruiting, onboarding, training, employee engagement, performance management, and administration. Lastly, Anupam shares his insights into literature that has shaped his leadership journey, citing \"3 Idiots\" as a movie recommendation for following one\'s passion and the Bhagavad Gita as a timeless guide for understanding human behavior and living a fulfilling life. 

In this episode, Sanketh shares valuable insights on fostering a culture of continuous learning within HR and his guiding principles in decision-making. He also discusses promoting inclusivity in smaller companies and handling resistance to inclusive policies.  Furthermore, Sanketh Ramkrishnamurthy explores how HR leaders can encourage employee ownership of learning and development. He delves into the evolving relationship between human workers and intelligent technologies in the era of automation, AI, and machine learning.  Lastly, Sanketh recommends insightful literature, including \"The Talent Code\" and \"The Culture Code\" by Daniel Coyle, emphasizing the i mportance of deliberate practice and continuous learning in talent management. Tune in for an enriching conversation on HR leadership and navigating the ever-changing landscape of human resources.

 In this enlightening episode of the CHRO Mindset Podcast, host, Pulkit Joshi, engages in a captivating conversation with Sara Boueri, a distinguished HR leader with over 15 years of experience spanning various industries. Sara\'s innovative approach to HR and her commitment to fostering employee well-being shine through as she shares her insights on a diverse array of topics. The episode kicks off with an unexpected hypothetical scenario: if HR were an Olympic event, what would it be, and how would you prepare for it? Sara\'s imaginative response transports listeners into a world where everyday challenges transform into competitive events, reflecting her belief in the importance of finding joy and camaraderie in the workplace. As the conversation unfolds, Sara delves into personal stories of leadership during times of crisis, offering valuable lessons on transparency, communication, and adaptability. She shares anecdotes from her experiences in industries heavily impacted by the pandemic, highlighting the pivotal role of transparent communication in fostering unity and resilience among teams. The discussion seamlessly transitions to Sara\'s reflections on HR-related challenges and innovative strategies for enhancing employee engagement and total rewards. Her emphasis on understanding employee needs and implementing creative solutions resonates deeply, underscoring the importance of prioritizing human connection amidst technological advancements. Throughout the episode, the dynamic exchange between host and guest is punctuated by moments of introspection and shared wisdom. From navigating generational differences to fostering trust and transparency in automation processes, Sara\'s insights offer invaluable guidance for HR professionals striving to create inclusive, empowering workplaces. The episode concludes with a heartfelt exploration of literature\'s influence on leadership journeys, as Sara candidly shares her unexpected source of inspiration: Harry Potter. Her reflections on the timeless themes of teamwork, resilience, and ethical leadership encapsulate the essence of her leadership philosophy, leaving listeners inspired and enlightened. 

 In this insightful interview, the guest, Sanjay Jha, discusses key HR insights and experiences. Addressing the first question, they debunk the myth that HR alone is responsible for employee happiness, emphasizing the collective effort required from both the organization and individuals. Sharing impactful leadership experiences, Sanjay Jha, recounts a transformative role at Tata, leading business excellence, and their leadership during the COVID era at Mahindra First Choice Wheels, focusing on employee well-being. On organizational change, Sanjay outlines steps for successful change management, emphasizing leadership unity, meaningful dialogue, and perseverance through challenges. They stress the importance of measuring cultural transformation through tangible indicators such as revenue, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement. The interview delves into the impact of technology on cultural transformation, highlighting its potential as a catalyst when strategically implemented. Sanjay advises clear intent, careful planning, and continuous oversight to avoid pitfalls. Discussing AI in HR, Sanjay urges organizations to prioritize employee well-being over organizational benefits. They stress ongoing feedback, pilot programs, and ensuring alignment with user needs for successful technology integration. Addressing automation challenges, Sanjay recommends holistic employee development, transparent communication, and balancing efficiency gains with employee concerns to foster a harmonious work environment.