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  • The Art of Finding and Growing Niche Skills with Cari Bohley

    The Art of Finding and Growing Niche Skills with Cari Bohley
    2024/12/27
    Cari Bohley, Vice President of Talent Management at Peraton, talks about solving real workplace problems by focusing on skills. From finding highly specialized talent in competitive markets to helping employees see clear career paths, Cari explains how tools like AI are changing the game. She shares what it takes to turn skills into a practical solution for hiring, retention, and engagement—especially in an industry where the stakes are high. Her story offers actionable insights for tackling challenges in hiring and L&D while proving the value of these efforts to leadership.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • Cari’s role at Peraton and its mission-critical focus [0:00]
    • Metrics that make leadership care about skills [1:20]
    • How timing impacts a business case [2:00]
    • Using AI to hire in niche markets [7:07]
    • Boosting retention with clear career paths [13:10]
    • Skills as the foundation for hiring and growth [16:10]
    • Tailoring a business case for leadership buy-in [32:30]
    • What success looks like with skills tools [35:00]
    • Lessons from implementing too quickly [39:06]
    • Why Cari enjoys the “fun” side of HR [40:20]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Peraton
    • SeekOut
    • Constellation Research Supernova Awards
    Connect with Cari Bohley
    • Cari Bohley on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

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    42 分
  • The Existential Crisis of L&D with Albertsons’ Michelle Kay

    The Existential Crisis of L&D with Albertsons’ Michelle Kay
    2024/12/23
    What happens to an organization when learning and development disappears? It’s a question more leaders are facing as L&D teams shrink or are deprioritized, even as the demand for a skilled workforce grows.

    Michelle Kay, Head of Learning and Development at Albertsons, has a clear answer: the unique expertise of L&D is irreplaceable. Managing learning for over 355,000 associates across one of the nation’s largest grocery chains, Michelle demonstrates how L&D can be a driving force behind business success, even in the face of change and uncertainty.

    Michelle’s perspective blends optimism and realism as she tackles pressing challenges like AI integration, burnout, and evolving workforce expectations. She explores how L&D functions as a critical link between talent development and business needs, offering tools for long-term growth and innovation.

    Through her candid insights and stories, she shows how learning teams can remain relevant, impactful, and future-focused—despite the shifting dynamics of the workplace.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • How L&D can remain relevant in shrinking organizations [2:10]
    • How generative AI might reduce burnout and simplify work [12:00]
    • Balancing alignment and innovation in L&D leadership [17:22]
    • Why curiosity is key for navigating rapid change [21:00]
    • The unique skills L&D professionals bring to the table [25:55]
    • How to approach AI experimentation in a low-risk way [30:10]
    • What happens when L&D teams partner with AI for growth [33:30]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, AI voice generators):
      Explore ChatGPT | AI Voice Generators like ElevenLabs
    • Malcolm Gladwell’s Revenge of the Tipping Point audiobook
    Connect with Michelle Kay
    • Michelle Kay on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

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    41 分
  • AI And Data Governance with Nick Hudgell

    AI And Data Governance with Nick Hudgell
    2024/12/18
    We had an incredible conversation with Nick Hudgell, Global Head of People Insights at Sanofi, about the transformative power of data governance and AI in HR. Nick shared how his team has built an infrastructure that connects disparate systems, improves data quality, and uses machine learning to unlock insights that genuinely improve employee experiences.

    From rethinking engagement surveys to launching AI-powered tools like the Sanofi Concierge, Nick made the case for why data is the backbone of innovation in people management.Nick also shared thought-provoking stories about breaking down resistance to change, balancing data privacy with innovation, and navigating the challenges of working in complex, multinational environments.

    We learned how his team collaborates across functions to streamline data, standardize definitions, and ensure technology is implemented in ways that actually work for employees. The practical examples he provided, from engagement programs to job architecture improvements, highlight the tangible results of getting the data right.

    We couldn’t have been more energized by Nick’s passion for making data governance approachable and impactful.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • Why data governance is crucial for successful AI [1:10]
    • Using the house metaphor to explain strong data foundations [2:36]
    • Nick’s path from psychology student to HR leader [6:00]
    • How Sanofi integrates data governance with HR tech [10:24]
    • Steps to build an effective data governance framework [14:40]
    • Handling siloed HR tech and aligning it with company goals [18:20]
    • Measuring employee engagement program success with data [25:10]
    • What data-as-a-service means for HR's future [31:00]
    • Sanofi’s use of AI to analyze and act on employee feedback [47:00]
    • Why data governance is key to AI and growth [54:20]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Sanofi Concierge – AI-powered internal assistant tool supporting employees with personalized guidance.
    Connect with Nick Hudgell
    • Nick Hudgell on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    55 分
  • From Efficiency to Impact: Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė on AI in L&D

    From Efficiency to Impact: Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė on AI in L&D
    2024/12/04
    We had an incredible conversation with Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė about their report, AI and L&D: Intention and Reality. Their research goes deep into how AI is reshaping learning and development, from streamlining tasks like content creation to enabling strategic integration across organizations.

    Don and Eglė talked about the fact that AI’s potential goes far beyond efficiency—it’s about solving meaningful business challenges and driving innovation through smarter decision-making.

    A standout idea was their “immaturity model,” which challenges the notion of linear AI adoption. They explained that success relies on factors like leadership mindset, organizational readiness, and strong cross-functional relationships, rather than following a predictable path.

    Their advice to start with clear business problems was especially impactful, offering a practical way to cut through AI hype and focus on real value. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating AI in L&D.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • The critical need for L&D to look beyond silos [0:45]
    • What the "immaturity model" says about AI adoption [1:10]
    • How Don and Eglė’s perspectives shape AI in L&D [3:40]
    • Why organizations are stuck in AI’s efficiency phase [7:39]
    • How historical mindsets limit L&D’s potential with AI [13:20]
    • Why AI adoption isn’t a linear progression [16:26]
    • The real barriers to embracing AI in L&D [27:10]
    • Starting with the right problem: Key to AI success [35:00]
    • Balancing experimentation with efficiency in AI adoption [44:47]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • AI and L&D: Intention and Reality by Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė
    • Heather Stefanski, CLO of McKinsey
    • AI and L&D: From Talk to Action (Previous report)
    Connect with Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė
    • Donald H. Taylor’s website
    • Eglė Vinauskaitė’s LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    52 分
  • The Biggest Mistakes Companies are Making with AI with Christopher Lind

    The Biggest Mistakes Companies are Making with AI with Christopher Lind
    2024/11/20
    What happens when AI moves faster than the people who implement it?

    Christopher Lind, executive advisor and industry expert, shares stories of organizations that got it wrong—sometimes with devastating consequences.

    From replacing entire teams with AI to accelerating broken processes, the conversation reveals how quickly things can unravel when technology outpaces understanding. At the same time, there’s tremendous opportunity if AI is handled with care.

    We explored what it takes to keep humans at the center of the work while letting AI handle repetitive tasks. This isn’t about avoiding AI—it’s about understanding how to use it in a way that aligns with our goals, values, and the irreplaceable need for human relationships.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • Why AI experts are often the most skeptical [0:56]
    • How generative AI can quickly magnify problems [1:30]
    • Whether AI should serve us or the other way around [2:00]
    • Why measuring AI’s true cost is so tricky [3:20]
    • How you might unknowingly rely on AI daily [8:42]
    • Preparing for the changes AI will bring to jobs [15:00]
    • What happens when automation goes wrong [35:17]
    • How one company’s overuse of AI caused failure [39:10]
    • Whether AI’s logic is misunderstood or alien [44:00]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Podcast: Future Focused with Christopher Lind
    • Radiolab’s "Shell Game" Episode
    Connect with Christopher Lind
    • LinkedIn: Christopher Lind
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    49 分
  • People Analytics & AI’s Real-World Impact at FedEx with Cole Napper

    People Analytics & AI’s Real-World Impact at FedEx with Cole Napper
    2024/11/06
    Cole Napper, FedEx’s Global Head of People Analytics, joined us to explore the real versus ideal roles of AI in HR and people analytics, focusing on practical application and real-world impact. Cole highlighted AI’s current limitations, especially the problem of “anti-productive work,” where technology demands extra effort rather than reducing it. His perspective emphasizes the need for critical thinking in analytics to ensure AI truly serves organizational goals.

    Cole also talked about the structural improvements required to enhance data quality and discussed how people analytics teams need to evolve for AI to make a meaningful difference. His pragmatic vision challenges the hype surrounding AI and reframes it as a tool to support strategic decision-making rather than an all-encompassing solution.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • Introducing our conversation with Cole Napper of FedEx [00:22]
    • Why AI should focus on productive work [02:10]
    • How specialized agents could reshape HR technology and analytics workflows [03:10]
    • Whether we are expecting too much from AI too soon in people analytics [07:00]
    • The disconnect between vendors’ AI promises and actual user experience [08:20]
    • Whether AI is driving value within organizations or merely adding costs [14:00]
    • Why critical thinking is a core skill for leveraging AI in people analytics [17:10]
    • The "Inquisitor and Change Agent" model and how it improves analytics impact [21:10]
    • How AI can evolve from repetitive data tasks to strategic roles [22:00]
    • Whether modular tools and specialized AI agents could be the future [41:30]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Directionally Correct podcast by Cole Napper and Scott Hines
    • "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho
    • Nvidia
    Connect with Cole Napper
    • Cole Napper on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    50 分
  • Why Social Network Perspective Matters with Greg Pryor

    Why Social Network Perspective Matters with Greg Pryor
    2024/10/23
    Could your network be the key to your career success and organizational growth? In this episode of Workplace Stories, we chat with Greg Pryor, author of the upcoming book, “The Social Capital Imperative.”

    Greg explains how social capital—our connections and relationships—drives business outcomes, sparks innovation, and boosts career growth. With the pandemic reshaping work, he argues that shifting from internal networks to open, cross-functional ones is crucial for success today.Greg shares practical strategies for making network-building accessible to individuals, teams, and organizations.

    He highlights how AI and technology can help unlock the potential of networks, focusing on measurable outcomes. His passion for helping organizations harness the power of social networks makes a strong case for why networks matter in the modern workplace.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • How focusing on people and networks—not just technology—drives workplace results [1:00]
    • Nine key use cases for network analysis, ranging from career growth to cultural change [2:40]
    • How Post Malone’s collaborations illustrate the power of networks in boosting success [9:00]
    • How “energizing influencers” like Dolly Parton can spark organizational transformation [14:00]
    • How the pandemic shifted networks from open to closed, impacting innovation [29:00]
    • Building networks for career growth, even without organizational support [39:20]
    • How AI can make network analysis more accessible and actionable [44:18]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • The Social Capital Imperative
    • Organizational Network Analysis (ONA)
    • Amy Edmondson’s work on Psychological Safety
    • Rob Cross - network analysis expert
    • John Boudreau
    Connect with Greg Pryor
    • Greg Pryor on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    47 分
  • Redefining Learning and Development at McKinsey: Lisa Christensen

    Redefining Learning and Development at McKinsey: Lisa Christensen
    2024/10/09
    What if your L&D team could shift from merely delivering training to truly driving your company’s strategic goals? In this conversation, we talk with Lisa Christensen, McKinsey’s Director of Learning and Innovation. Lisa takes a refreshingly strategic approach, asking not just how L&D can support learning but “To what end?” She shares how her focus on outcomes over output has reshaped McKinsey’s approach to everything from people analytics to building a strong feedback culture.

    We also talk about why L&D should embrace experimentation, moving far beyond traditional course delivery to tackle big organizational challenges. Lisa makes the case for L&D to collaborate closely with People Analytics and Legal to ensure that learning initiatives aren’t just reactive but strategically positioned for future growth. Her “no regrets” actions offer useful, bold steps for L&D leaders, inspiring us to see the function as a driver of both human and organizational transformation.

    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
    • Why McKinsey's L&D team always starts with the question, "To what end?" [1:00]
    • The risk of L&D focusing only on short-term skill needs [15:00]
    • Collaboration with People Analytics transforming L&D's impact [18:00]
    • L&D teams losing their value by sticking to outdated metrics [20:00]
    • What it means for L&D to have an experimental mindset [31:00]
    • How L&D leaders can ensure their department's stability and credibility [37:00]
    • The “no regrets” actions every L&D team should consider right now [43:00]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Oliver Wyman Report on Workforce Future
    • McKinsey’s Learning & Innovation Center of Excellence
    Connect with Lisa Christensen
    • Connect with Lisa Christensen on LinkedIn
    Connect With Red Thread Research
    • Website: Red Thread Research
    • On LinkedIn
    • On Facebook
    • On Twitter

    Subscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES
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    47 分