The Human Capitalist

AI is exposing the productivity problem leaders have ignored for years. Most organizations optimized for activity — not outcomes — and HR now owns the reset. As AI automates more work, it’s exposing a hard truth inside organizations: Much of what we’ve rewarded for years was never real productivity. Slide decks no one reads. Meetings that solve nothing. Reports created for optics, not outcomes. In...

Two veteran recruiters break down why relationship-driven recruiting, skills-based hiring, and boomerang talent are about to matter more than ever in an AI-driven world. In this episode of The Human Capitalist podcast, I sit down with Top Source Talent founder and Talking TA host, Denise Chaffin, to talk about what’s next for AI in HR, the rise of skilled trades, and how smart companies are quietl...

Almost every time layoffs are announced, we hear the same explanation: “AI-related restructuring.” The problem? There’s been no reliable way to verify it — until now. In this video, I break down the AI-Related Job Impacts Clarity Act, a new bill in Congress that could require companies to publicly report how AI is impacting their workforce. We cover: Why this bill exists What companies may soon be...

In this episode of the Human Capitalist, host Trent Cotton sits down with Cynthia Abbott Kerr, founder of WellPay, to break down the biggest headlines shaking up the consulting and HR worlds. We start by dissecting the recent news that McKinsey is freezing entry-level salaries and potentially abandoning their famous “pyramid” hiring model due to AI. Is artificial intelligence really the culprit, o...

For board members, the biggest risk isn't moving too fast with "artificial intelligence"; it's failing to ask the right questions before it's too late. This video emphasizes that AI is not a passing trend, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking and "ai leadership" for executives in 2025. It's crucial for "c suite leadership development" to understand this shift, as "ai for business" wil...

I'm thrilled to have talent strategy expert Rachel Bourne on the show. I've been tracking some alarming headlines about layoffs in 2025, and I knew Rachel was the perfect person to help me unpack what's really happening. We dive deep into the data (because we both geek out on this stuff!) and what it means for YOUR career. 🔍 **What We Cover:** **The Workforce Reality:** - 1.1 Million layoffs in 2...

I've been in the human capital space for over 20 years, and I'm ready to discuss how OpenAI could shake up the world of recruiting. This video explores the potential for an "openai jobs platform" to disrupt LinkedIn, focusing on real skills and better job matching. It's a look at the future of work, specifically how AI could impact "jobs" and "talent acquisition" as we know it. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00...

AI was supposed to be the hero of the future of work. Instead? 2025 is shaping up to be a workforce disaster. Over **1.1 million** U.S. jobs have been cut this year alone, and yet, companies are doubling down on automation. But here’s the catch: **42% of firms have already abandoned most of their AI projects** due to poor results and lack of internal capability. So what happens when you’ve cut you...

Here's what I've learned after 20+ years in HR: AI isn't just a tech play anymore. I's a complete workforce revolution, and most boards are still underestimating what's coming. I just watched Accenture's CEO lay out how the world's most powerful companies are thinking about AI, and let me tell you—it's not what most people think. It's not about scaling models. It's about scaling PEOPLE, changing h...

We are all chasing AI adoption in HR like it's a golden ticket, but let's be honest, we're failing. It isn't a tech problem; it's a people problem. HR's hesitation to adopt AI is a leadership failure, with many teams stuck in the past relying on outdated methods. But what if I told you the problem isn't AI, but the people behind AI adoption in HR? I'm Trent Cotton, a 20-year HR veteran and self-pr...

Are you struggling to navigate the world of recruiting operations? You're not alone! In this episode of the Human Capitalist Podcast, we dive deep into the secrets of RecOps with industry expert Jeremy Lyons. Discover why your victories might be quiet, but your failures are loud—and why understanding the "why" behind Recruiting Operations can transform your career! 🎯 Video Summary: Join me as I i...

The gap between recruiters is widening, and what you do next could be pivotal for your career. In this eye-opening recap, we're diving into how AI is transforming recruiting and what side of the divide you truly belong to. Check out this virtual panel program discussing hiring strategies and AI's impact on the process. Hear from various speakers as they share tips and reactions on ai job interview...

Are you struggling to make your mark in your industry? Have you ever wondered how a simple video can change everything for your career? In this episode, we uncover the transformational power of personal branding with Rhona Pierce, a true expert in leveraging video to amplify influence! In this engaging conversation, Rhona shares: ✅ The unexpected path from software engineer to personal branding g...

Are you ready to discover how AI is reshaping recruitment? You won’t believe how voice technology can revolutionize talent acquisition—let’s dive in! 🎯 Video Summary: In this groundbreaking episode of the Human Capitalist podcast, we bring you insights from Mark Chaffey, co-founder and CEO of HackerJob. Learn how they are flipping recruitment on its head, transforming the way companies connect wi...

The future hinges on more than tech; it requires strong leadership. Companies need the right people driving digital transformation and successfully navigating AI adoption. To foster organizational growth, focus on leadership skills and embrace transformative tech through leadership innovation. In this video I break down the 5 AI leadership roles you need in your organization today. 🕰️ Timestamps 0...

Are you aware that nearly half of your workforce feels overwhelmed by AI? It's creating unspoken fatigue that could hurt your company's culture! In this video, I reveal how to turn this daunting situation into a powerful opportunity for growth. 🎯 Video Summary: AI was promised to make our work lives easier and smarter, yet the reality is grim. Employees are feeling the strain, with many viewing A...

Are you struggling to make data-driven decisions in HR? Are you tired of hearing AI in HR? You're not alone, and today, we’re diving into the bold frontier where AI meets human resources! In this episode of the Human Capitalist podcast, I'm thrilled to have Laura Close, a visionary in AI-driven HR technology, sharing her insights on harnessing data for personalized employee experiences and the dem...

Are you a catalyst feeling overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change? It's time to understand your unique power! In this video, Tracey Lovejoy and Shannon Lucas dive deep into their groundbreaking book, “Move Fast, Break Shit,” revealing critical insights for catalysts navigating the complexities of today’s workplace. Join me as I chat with two incredible minds who’ve dedicated their careers to empo...

Are you ready to explore the untapped potential of AI in HR in HR? Join us as Chandra Sanders, founder of Heels and Hustle, uncovers how AI can transform workplaces and why women must lead the charge in this revolution! In my conversation, HR expert Chandra Sanders takes us on a journey through her remarkable career and the evolving landscape of Human Capital. Discover why AI is more than just a b...

Are you ready to unlock the secret to transforming Human Resources with AI? Join us as we dive deep into the future of HR with Haris Ikram, CEO of Candor IQ, who reveals how to shift from a tactical to a strategic approach in managing your workforce! In this engaging episode, we explore the evolution of HR and the pivotal role AI plays in shaping its future. Haris Ikram shares his unique journey a...

Are you feeling overwhelmed in a rapidly changing HR landscape? Discover how one bold leader saved $95 million in costs and why having a seat at the table is more crucial today than ever! If you want to learn how to navigate the complexities of HR and lead with confidence, keep watching! I have been so excited about this episode featuring Maria Scarangella, an HR powerhouse who has transformed hum...

Are you curious about how AI is transforming human resources and what it means for the future of work? Join me as I dive deep with HR expert John Baldino into the heart of this evolving landscape. You won’t believe the insights we discuss on adapting to technology while fostering a culture of care! In this vibrant episode, we explore: ✅ The reality of AI in HR and how it can elevate, not replace,...

Are you struggling to navigate change in your organization, especially with the rise of AI? You're not alone—70% of transformations fail. But in this video, we’ll uncover the secrets to effectively managing change and transforming your team! In this episode of the Human Capitalist Podcast, we dive deep into the powerful insights from change expert Michael Lopez. Get ready to explore: ✅ The stagge...

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the rapid changes in HR? You’re not alone! In this video, I'm diving into the key insights from Dan Riley about how to navigate the transformation in human resources and the role of AI. 🎯 Video Summary: Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the fascinating evolution of HR in our digital age. Dan shares his unique background and reveals: ✅ Why "listenin...

Are you feeling stuck in your career or wondering why workplace culture significantly impacts your success? This episode is just for you! Join Robin Daniels, a leadership expert, to discover how to create a workspace that fosters motivation and keeps your team engaged. In this episode, we dive into the importance of workplace culture, employee engagement, and future trends in HR. Robin Daniels, wi...