we got this

Misha’s LinkedIn

Simtex website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#75: Bridging the Gap - HR as a Strategic Business Partner with Shawna Stewart

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

54 minutes 56 seconds

we got this

Lech Guzowski speaks with Shona Stewart, VP of People and Operations at Railz Financials, about building a people strategy that aligns with business objectives. They discuss the need for constant auditing and evolution of people programs, the misalignment between HR and business, and the importance of HR professionals having a strong understanding of the business. They also explore the role of HR in improving efficiency, the disconnect between HR and other departments, and the need for HR to be involved in decision-making and strategy. The conversation highlights the importance of HR professionals being business-focused and the need for a shift in mindset to view HR as a strategic partner.

Takeaways

There is often a misalignment between HR and business, and HR professionals need to be more business-focused.
HR should be involved in decision-making and strategy to ensure a strong people strategy that supports the business.
People programs need constant auditing, changing, and evolution to align with business goals.
There is a need for a shift in mindset to view HR as a strategic partner and recognize the importance of their role in the overall success of the business. Having a clear strategic direction is crucial for businesses to navigate change effectively.
Businesses need to be prepared for the unique demands of the next generation entering the workforce.
Aligning people strategy with business objectives requires conducting needs analysis and fostering open communication.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Shawna’s LinkedIn

Railz website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#74: The Power of Workplace Communities at DNV with Ewa Żabińska-Socha

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

42 minutes 50 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Lech Guzowski interviews Ewa Żabińska-Soha, the DNV's global shared service, global center manager in HR, to understand how DNV manages to retain employees for long tenures. They discuss the importance of workplace communities, the benefits they bring, and how DNV supports and encourages these communities. They also explore other factors contributing to employee retention, such as growth opportunities, development plans, and the company's values and atmosphere.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Ewa’s LinkedIn

DNV’s website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#73: Misalignment Between the CEO, Employees, and Customers with Tom Fowler

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

34 minutes 36 seconds

we got this

Lech Guzowski and Tom Fowler, seasoned professional in the health, wellness, fitness, and sports performance sectors, explore the miscommunications and misunderstandings that occur within the CEO, employees, and customers triangle. Tom also shares his experiences and insights into the pressures faced by CEOs, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the critical role of board members and advisors in ensuring organizational success.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Tom’s LinkedIn

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#72: The Unseen Challenges of a StartUp CEO with Marek Kesküll

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

49 minutes 35 seconds

we got this

In this episode of we got this podcast, we delve into the complexities and challenges faced by CEOs. Lech Guzowski interviews Marek Kesküll, CEO and founder of ScoreStars, a sports fan engagement platform. Discussing the intricacies and challenges that CEOs face, from directing strategy and vision to handling finances and driving product innovation, the discussion provides insights into the often misunderstood and lonely journey of a CEO. The conversation delves into the importance of user feedback, the evolution of a CEO's role, effective delegation, and the emotional toll of leadership. Marek also highlights the significant learning curve and the value of having a supportive network, making a compelling case for the blend of strategic thinking and personal resilience required to succeed in such a demanding position.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Marek’s LinkedIn

ScoreStars website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#71: Navigating Leadership Challenges in Fast-Growth Companies with Nikos Psaltopoulos

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

52 minutes 43 seconds

we got this

In this episode of the we got this podcast, Lech Guzowski delves into the multifaceted objectives of businesses, exploring the balance between profit and people. The conversation features Nikos Psaltopoulos, a leader, founder, and advisor specialised in building resilient tech companies. They discuss the challenges of maintaining a thriving business while ensuring adaptability and employee satisfaction. The discussion further covers the evolution of education systems and their impact on preparing individuals for the modern workplace, the importance of recruiting for attitude over skillset, and the role of leaders in fostering a healthy, innovative work culture. With insights into managing remote work environments post-COVID and the significance of trust and effective communication within teams, this episode offers a comprehensive look at sustainable business growth and leadership dynamics.

Takeaways

Building a business profitably and sustainably requires a focus on both financial success and employee well-being.
Leaders should be open to feedback and different perspectives to avoid groupthink and foster innovation.
Intentional and meaningful connections are crucial in a remote work environment to maintain employee engagement and collaboration.
Rigid rules and mandates can negatively impact employee morale and retention, and leaders should consider the needs and preferences of their workforce.
Creating a strong company culture requires trust, open communication, and a shared sense of purpose. Trust is the foundation of any relationship, including those in the workplace. It is crucial for building strong teams and organisations.
Leaders need to be intentional and deliberate in their actions, making decisions that are for the betterment of the people and the growth of the business.
The challenges of remote work require leaders to adapt and evolve, finding new ways to communicate and collaborate effectively.
Deep work is essential for productivity and should be prioritized over excessive meetings and shallow work.
Leaders should reframe challenges and find the right balance between short-term and long-term goals, understanding that one size does not fit all.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Nikos’s LinkedIn

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#70: Finding Direction in the Startup World with Stefan Weiss

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

59 minutes 26 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Stefan Weiss, CEO and co-founder of STRAFFR, discusses the challenges and learnings of building a startup in the fitness technology industry. He emphasises the importance of customer success and gaining and retaining customers. Stefan also highlights the misconception that startups can easily raise investment and run smoothly, when in reality, there are many challenges and failures along the way. He shares the importance of celebrating wins, no matter how small, and having a clear direction while navigating the startup journey. Stefan also mentions the upcoming launch of a new product and potential partnerships for STRAFFR.

Takeaways

Customer success and gaining/retaining customers are crucial for startups
Startups face many challenges and failures along the way
Celebrating wins, no matter how small, is important for resilience
Having a clear direction is key in the startup journey
STRAFFR is launching a new product and exploring potential partnerships

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Stefan’s LinkedIn

STRAFFR website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#69: Behind the Scenes of Building Employee Pathways with Mick Griffin

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

45 minutes 14 seconds

we got this

Lech Guzowski and Mick Griffin, Chief Growth Officer at TRAFFIT, explore the importance of career development and growth in the workplace. Mick shares his experience implementing development pathways for employees which aim to provide employees with a clear roadmap for growth and align their goals with the company's objectives. The conversation covers challenges and lessons from developing a structured growth program within a company, highlighting the potential impact of such initiatives on employee motivation and business alignment. Mick also talks about the impact of economic conditions on pathways.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Mick’s LinkedIn

TRAFFIT’s website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#68: Transforming Team Sports Through AI with Aldo Comi

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

1 hour 3 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Aldo Comi, the co-founder and CEO of Soccerment, shares his journey of building a startup in the sports analytics industry. He discusses the importance of solid foundations, including a clear vision and values, in creating a successful organisation. Aldo also highlights the challenges of navigating uncharted waters and the need for perseverance and resilience. He emphasises the importance of finding the right people with the right attitude and the challenges of introducing new technologies in the football industry. Aldo concludes by sharing his vision for the future of Soccerment and the adoption of AI in football.

Takeaways

Building a successful organisation requires solid foundations, including a clear vision and values.
Navigating uncharted waters and overcoming challenges requires perseverance and the right attitude.
Finding the right people with the right attitude is crucial for success.
Introducing new technologies in traditional industries, such as football, can be challenging but offers significant opportunities.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Aldo’s LinkedIn

Soccerment website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#67: Goals Beyond the Pitch - Innovating Sports and Business with Robin Ken

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

42 minutes 59 seconds

we got this

Lech Guzowski interviews Robin Kent, who shares his extensive experience in the advertising world, including his tenure as the global chairman and CEO of Universal McCann, and his current role at RSportz, a sports tech and consultancy firm. Robin also discusses the operations and global reach of RSportZ, touching upon the importance of technology in amateur sports and the company's approach to managing a dispersed team, emphasising trust, responsibility, and the adaptive use of communication tools in a remote work setting.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Robin’s LinkedIn

RSportz website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#66 How To Cost Cut Without Killing The Future with Rana Ersgård

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

47 minutes 6 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Lech Guzowski speaks to Rana Ersgård, co-CEO of Beetroot, who sheds light on navigating company cost cutting while fostering growth. She emphasises the importance of balancing short-term and long-term planning. The conversation explores the challenges and approaches to adapting to change and implementing new practices. Rana also stresses the importance of avoiding being 'dum snål' (stupid cheap) and grounding strategies in reality is emphasised.

Takeaways

Balancing short-term and long-term planning is essential for navigating challenges and ensuring future readiness.
The IT industry's focus has shifted from growth at any cost to sustainable operations and profitability.
Strategic planning needs to balance immediate needs with long-term goals, requiring both top-down decision-making and team involvement.
Shifting from profit-focused to purpose-driven strategies is key for sustainable growth.
Avoid short-sighted cost-cutting to preserve team collaboration and development.
Success depends on grounding strategies in reality and effectively executing visions.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Rana’s LinkedIn

Beetroot website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#65: Navigating Growth - Strategic Decisions Behind Butter's Growth with Jakob Knutzen

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

42 minutes 43 seconds

we got this

In this episode, host Lech Guzowski sits down with Jakob Knutzen, the CEO of Butter, a groundbreaking collaboration platform designed to make remote work not just efficient, but also delightful. Dive deep into the world of business innovation, team dynamics, and the evolving landscape of workplace culture through the lens of a seasoned entrepreneur. Whether you're navigating the challenges of building a business or curious about the future of work, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Key Points:

Origin and mission of Butter.
The balance between product development and cultivating team culture.
Evolution from over-engineered to organic cultural practices.
Introducing AI co-facilitators to enhance online collaboration.
Personal challenges and insights from a CEO’s perspective.

Key Takeaways:

Effective business building extends beyond a great product to include the right mix of strategy, execution, and culture.
An organic approach to company culture can be more beneficial than over-engineering.
AI can significantly support, but not replace, human facilitation in online collaboration.
The unique financial and personal journey of entrepreneurship requires a support system and clear communication.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Jakob’s LinkedIn

Butter 30% off the first 3 months

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#64: Transforming Medicare Through Culture: The Chapter Effect with Cobi Blumenfeld-Gantz

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

46 minutes 42 seconds

we got this

Lech Guzowski interviews Cobi Blumenfeld-Gantz, CEO of Chapter, about the unique and exceptional culture at Chapter, a company that is the industry leading Medicare navigation platform. Cobi shares his unique perspective on leadership, the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining a high-quality user experience. This episode is about the principles and practices that make Chapter a remarkable example of corporate culture done right.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Cobi’s LinkedIn

Chapter’s website

Conversation with Alexis McEvoy

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#63: Helping HR grow a pair with Mateusz Stasica

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

45 minutes 35 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Lech Guzowski and guest Mateusz Stasica discuss the evolving role of HR in modern businesses. They challenge the perception of HR as a purely people-focused field, highlighting the growing need for HR leaders who are also business-savvy. The conversation covers the importance of integrating HR into strategic planning and how this integration can drive business success by leveraging talent effectively. Mateusz, a founder himself, provides insights on how HR can be more aligned with business goals, stressing the need for better communication between HR and top management. This episode offers valuable perspectives for HR professionals and business leaders on enhancing HR's role in strategic decision-making and organizational growth.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#62: Who is responsible for employee’s psychological resilience with Jarosław Świątek

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

50 minutes 13 seconds

we got this

In this episode, Lech Guzowski and Jarosław Świątek discuss ideas around creating a healthy work environment, managing stress, understanding the effects of modern overstimulation on mental health, and ensuring emotional resilience in staff. Jarosław, who is a neuropsychologist and the founder of the School of Emotional Intelligence, provides insightful observations on how both employees and employers can contribute to a healthier, more effective workplace. They also discuss common errors employers make while trying to create a stress-free environment.

Key Takeaways:

- The sometimes overlooked role and responsibility of the employee to manage their own stress levels at the workplace

- Environment vs Culture: How employers need to think beyond bean bags and free coffee when seeking to create a stress-free work environment

- The mechanisms of motivation: how too LITTLE stress leads to productivity loss and how too MUCH stress leads to mistakes and burnout

- The importance of meaning: if an organisations’ leaders lack a meaningful mission themselves, can one be manufactured for the low-level employees?

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

[School of Emotional Intelligence](https://sie.edu.pl/)

[Jarosław's LinkedIN](https://pl.linkedin.com/in/jaroslaw-swiatek-92396319)

***

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at [podcast@human.pm](mailto:podcast@human.pm)

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the [podcast page](http://www.human.pm/sponsorpodcast) for more details.

***

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at *human culture design*

[human culture design](http://www.human.pm)

[Lech's LinkedIn](http://www.linkedin.com/in/lech-guzowski/)

Get in touch - [podcast@human.pm](mailto:podcast@human.pm)

1 year ago

48 minutes 5 seconds

we got this

#61: Making Strides Towards Great Culture with Alexis McEvoy

In this episode, Lech Guzowski talks to Alexis McEvoy, the Chief People Officer at Chapter, a company focused on transforming the retirement experience through technology. Alexis discusses the importance of creating a solid company culture, as well as some practical steps for going about it. She reflects on the need to determine organisational priorities and values, and how they intersect with culture. While emphasising that culture is not solely about perks such as flexible work hours or free coffee, she highlights the importance of leaders embodying the desired values and behaviours.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of culture within an organisation, the role of leadership, and the value of employee autonomy and ownership.
Utilising existing organisational language and the importance of adapting to changes within the company and the wider world.
This episode provides valuable insights into the mechanisms behind building and maintaining a strong, mission-oriented culture in an organisation, stressing the idea that this work is ongoing and dynamic.
We also address how culture impacts the organisation’s bottom line, performance and employee turnover.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Chapter Company Website

Alexis LinkedIN

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#60 When Your Job Becomes Your Identity with Natalia Morgan

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

51 minutes 8 seconds

we got this

Ever wondered if your job is defining who you are? Lech Guzowski talks to Natalia Morgan, Head of Online Marketing at Advance Metrics about the complex relationship between our work and personal identities, exploring how our jobs shape our sense of self and the challenges this can pose. They discuss the emotional impact of job loss, cultural challenges in Zurich, and strategies for enriching life beyond the office.

Key Talking Points:

Job Loss and Identity: Impact on self-perception and emotional well-being.
Cultural Integration and Work Identity: Challenges faced by expatriates in Zurich.
Transitioning Career Paths: Natalia's journey from European studies to online marketing.
Work-Life Integration: Strategies for maintaining a healthy balance.
Personal Development: The value of hobbies and activities outside work.

Takeaways:

Self-Reflection: Recognize when work identity becomes unhealthy and take steps to address it.
Diverse Interests: Cultivate hobbies and activities that are unrelated to work to discover different facets of your personality.
Mindful Separation: Create rituals or routines that help differentiate work time from personal time.
Continual Learning: Embrace new roles and responsibilities at work as opportunities for growth.
Community Engagement: Participate in activities that connect you with different communities and perspectives.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Natalia’s LinkedIn

Advance Metrics website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#59 Speaking Up: What’s All the Fuss About? with Stephen Shedletzky

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

46 minutes 35 seconds

we got this

In this episode of We Got This, Lech Guzowski interviews Stephen ‘Shed’ Shedletzky, an expert on leadership, communication, and business strategy. They discuss Shed’s recently published book "Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen," where he explores the concept of 'speak up culture' in a corporate setting. Shed discusses the role of effective communication, psychological safety, and leaders truly listening to their teams in creating successful businesses.

Key Takeaways:

a genuine 'Speak Up Culture' is not about encouraging noise or endless opinions but promoting constructed dialogues that inspire growth.
What it really means to “fail forward” and how to make sure your organisation’s mistakes are productive ones
The importance of aligning jobs with people's strengths and directing your team’s energies towards their strengths
How to manage feedback, including anonymous feedback. Why it is better to have SOME feedback instead of NO feedback

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Stephen’s Personal Website

Stephen’s LinkedIn

Stephen’s Book Speak-Up Culture

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

#58 Inside B Corp: Shaping Business for Good with Claudio Vandi

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

45 minutes 57 seconds

we got this

In this episode of we got this, host Lech Guzowski is joined by Claudio Vandi, co-founder and Chief Product Officer at NUMA, to unravel the essence and impact of B Corp certification on businesses and workplace culture. As NUMA has recently achieved this coveted status, Claudio shares the meticulous process, the changes it has spurred within their company, and how it’s more than just a badge—it's a commitment to a stakeholder-driven business model. Tune in for an in-depth exploration of the B Corp ethos and its transformative effect on NUMA's operations, culture, and future directions.

Key Talking Points:

Understanding B Corp certification and its importance in today's corporate landscape.
NUMA’s transformative journey through the B Corp certification process.
The influence of B Corp values on NUMA’s operational and cultural decisions.
The role of transparency, employee engagement, and remote-first policies in B Corp practices.
How B Corp aligns with NUMA’s mission and influences its learning programs.
The tangible impacts of B Corp certification on customer relations and business ethics.

Takeaways:

B Corp certification stands as a beacon for companies prioritising impactful social and environmental practices.
NUMA’s certification journey showcases the potential for significant internal culture shifts towards greater flexibility and transparency.
A B Corp status not only bolsters a company's reputation but also guides its strategic and operational choices for long-term sustainability.
Embracing B Corp principles can lead to innovative product development, such as NUMA’s focus on inclusive leadership and climate transition management.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Claudio’s LinkedIn

NUMA website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design

The Hidden Benefits and Pitfalls of the Push to Automation with Ashley Chain

Get in touch - podcast@human.pm

1 year ago

46 minutes 4 seconds

we got this

In this podcast episode, Lech Guzowski interviews Ashley Chain Director of People & Operations at Process Street. They discuss the topic of automation and assess the benefits and pitfalls of the push to automation.

Key Takeaways:

It’s important to assess what tasks see the most benefit from automation. Repetitive unskilled tasks are the obvious ones, but also tasks that you don’t do very often that you may forget how to do.
Some tasks should probably never be automated. Faking interactions with people and automating tasks that benefit from interaction between people are obvious examples.
Automation can get in the way of human interaction, but it can also free up people to spend more time with each other leading to deeper, authentic, connections.
The technologies available now that may be tempting to use but may cause problems for organisations

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Ashley’s LinkedIn

Process Street website

Have a topic or a guest suggestion? Drop me a message at podcast@human.pm

If you want to sponsor the podcast, please visit the podcast page for more details.

Hosted and produced by Lech Guzowski at human culture design