Working Forward

In this episode, KL Shaw joins Jason Cochran to break down what it really means to own your career journey — especially in today's uncertain job market. From layoffs to layoffs to leaps of faith, they explore how to shift from fear into action. KL shares powerful coaching insights on getting clear about your purpose, making your impact visible, and building authentic relationships that open real d...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with Michael Morgan and Scott Himes from Medallion Partners to explore the evolving landscape of executive search and talent acquisition. They discuss the significant uncertainties and changes in the industry, the critical importance of succession planning, and the impact of AI on the workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to a...

Live from the PeopleForward Network Community, Jason sits down with Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer—aka the workplace wellbeing docs 👩‍⚕️👩‍⚕️—to talk about their new book "Leading for Wellness." Why are employees feeling worse despite all the wellness perks? What does real support look like? And how can leaders stop burnout before it starts? This convo is packed with research, laughs...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Josh Drean explore the rapidly changing landscape of work, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and its implications for employment. They discuss the uncertainty surrounding AI's capabilities, the importance of human connection in the workplace, and the need for a new employment model that prioritizes meaningful work. The conversation highligh...

In this episode, Nikki and Jason dive into a hot topic: how do you keep that human touch while embracing the rise of automation and AI 🤖? They get real about what should be automated (hello, scheduling) and what should never lose the personal touch (like conflict resolution or celebrating your people). With practical insights, core values, and a whole lot of heart, this convo will leave you rethi...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Chris Kluver discuss the current state of the economy, the challenges faced by business leaders, and the impact of political decisions on economic stability. They explore the role of hope in leadership, the transformative effects of AI and automation on the workforce, and the importance of life-work integration in the evolving work landscape. The discussion...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran and Gianna Driver explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on the challenges faced by HR leaders, the importance of work-life integration, and the rising significance of hope in leadership. They discuss the impact of AI on employment and the necessity for collaboration between humans and technology, emphasizing the need for workplaces to adapt to these c...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran interviews Vince Freeman, the Chief AI Implementation Officer at HardingPorman. They discuss the evolving role of AI in organizations, the challenges of implementation, and the future of work as AI becomes more integrated into various industries. Vince shares insights on the importance of education and collaboration between HR and IT, the potential economic impl...

In this episode, we dive into the power of asynchronous meetings—what they are, why they matter, and how they can revolutionize the way teams communicate. Join Jason Cochran and Nikki Lewallen Gregory as they break down the key strategies behind effective async collaboration. From reducing meeting fatigue to ensuring every team member has a voice, this conversation is packed with insights you won'...

In this conversation, Jason Cochran engages with futurists Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll to explore the evolving landscape of workplace communication. They discuss the profound impact of social media on communication dynamics, the rise of podcasting as a tool for corporate communication, and the implications of artificial intelligence in enhancing or complicating communication processes. The dis...

Workplace Revolution  is back and better than ever! Andrea Brummett is joined by Jason Cochran, new host of  Working Forward , to talk about the evolving role of EQ in the workplace. Andrea breaks down the five key components of EQ—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—giving real-world insights into why these skills are essential in today's rapidly changing work...

Joining me in this episode focused on the future of AI and HR are Enrique Rubio and Matt Burns. Enrique is an HR, Tech and Future of Work expert, keynote speaker and founder of global communities. Enrique is currently an advisor to the community he built, Hacking HR, a global learning community operating at the intersection of future of work, technology, business and organizations, with thousands...

In this bonus episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory joins Jason Cochran to explore the foundation of successful remote teams. Nikki shares why intentionality matters, what it truly looks like (spoiler: it's more than just flexible schedules), and how leaders can build strong, connected cultures while boosting productivity. From work-life integration to game-changing rituals like asynchronous meetings, t...

🚀The future of work is here—and it's flipping the script! Join Working Forward' s new host, Jason Cochran , as he dives into the shifts reshaping everything: from ditching the 9-to-5 grind and hustle culture to embracing four-day workweeks, remote flexibility, and even learning on TikTok. Oh, and AI? It's rewriting the rules entirely. Ready to rethink what work can be? Let's go!   Additional Reso...

Workplace Revolution is back and better than ever! Andrea Brummett is joined by Jason Cochran, new host of Working Forward , to talk about the secret sauce for thriving teams: Psychological safety. Andrea breaks it down: why it matters, what it really looks like (spoiler: it's not about avoiding conflict), and how leaders can build trust, spark creativity, and unlock their team's full potential. G...

In this episode, Nikki discusses the power of dreaming and having a vivid vision to overcome challenges in life. She shares a personal story about selling her home and pursuing her dream of having a retreat place. Nikki emphasizes the importance of legacy leadership and helping others achieve their dreams. She encourages leaders to reflect on their own dreams and take steps towards achieving them,...

In this episode, Lori Shakur interviews Dominique Shelton Leipzig , a privacy and cybersecurity expert, to explore the critical role of data leadership and AI governance in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape.  Dominique passionately advocates for CEOs and board members to lead the charge in setting clear and intentional strategies around data privacy and security. She reveals why data shou...

Host, Andrea Brummett, discusses the disillusionment with traditional workplace structures and the need for change. She highlights the disruptive force of the COVID-19 pandemic in forcing businesses to adapt and innovate. Brummett emphasizes the importance of creating a workplace that is in harmony with human needs and values. Explore various theories and frameworks influencing workplace revolutio...

Nikki dives into the importance of chasing your dreams, no matter how crazy they may seem to others. She shares her personal journey of manifesting a remote retreat space and the steps she's taking to make it a reality, even if it means living in a barn. She encourages listeners to embrace skepticism and to listen to criticism without focusing on the critic. Additional Resources Connect with Nikki...

From biochemistry to the C-suite, Madelyn Mackie has navigated a non-linear career path, gaining rich experiences across various industries. She's now a career coach helping individuals activate their career dreams. In this episode, Laurie Shakur talks with Madelyn about the importance of preparation meeting opportunity, recommending that aspiring entrepreneurs try a side gig before transitioning...

Dream chasing isn't just for kids. In this episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory delves into the transformative power of using a journal for dream planning and goal setting. Nikki, renowned for her inspirational guidance in leadership and personal development, shares her personal journaling practices that help her stay focused, reflect, and celebrate progress. She introduces listeners to key tools like...

Nina Woodruff , CEO of the Museum Of Children's Art (MoCA), shares her inspiring journey from being an Oakland youth to leading a non-profit organization focused on creativity, innovation, and community empowerment. In this engaging episode of Working Forward, hosted by Laurie Shakur , Nina delves into the significance of fostering an inclusive environment through collaborative leadership and how...

Andrea Brummett , CEO of Pabulum Group and reddeHR , joins host Shawn Neal to share her entrepreneurial journey and how her resilience and familiarity with business from a young age shaped her path to leadership. Discussing topics like overcoming fear, the thrill of challenges, and achieving fulfillment, she emphasizes creating human-centered workplaces and aligning organizational strategies with...

In this re-released episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory encourages us to design our ideal lives, define our dreams, believe in ourselves, and take action to make them a reality. She shares valuable insights on overcoming the hurdles that hold us back from dreaming, such as fear, lack of confidence, and not knowing how to dream. Nikki provides practical tips for uncovering our unique value, surrounding...

In this episode, Laurie Shakur tackles the critical issues surrounding mental health in the workplace. She explores the staggering economic and personal costs of untreated mental health conditions, examines the profound effects of childhood experiences, and discusses actionable strategies to enhance mental health support in professional environments. From Laurie's personal stories to insightful st...