People Warriors

Why do people resist change...even when they want the outcome? In this episode, Heather sits down with neuroexpert and organizational change strategist Lisa Riegel to explore the brain science behind resistance. Together, they unpack why what looks like a motivation problem is often a knowledge gap, enthusiasm gap, logistics gap, or a lack of belief that change is possible. Whether you're trying t...

In this episode of the People Warriors Podcast, Heather sits down with Heather Wilson—co-founder and co-CEO of GiveSendGo—to explore what it actually looks like to live in adventure with God in the middle of everyday life. Together, they unpack the idea of being invited—into moments, conversations, and decisions that often feel small, uncomfortable, or easy to ignore. Heather shares stories from h...

In this episode of the People Warriors Podcast, Heather sits down with Chris Russell—CEO of Spire Hospitality—to explore what it really takes to build a culture people want to stay in. Together, they unpack the everyday leadership choices that build trust, loyalty, and long-term commitment on teams. Chris shares lessons from his own career journey, the leadership behaviors that shape culture over...

In this episode of the People Warriors Podcast, Heather sits down with Ryan Gottfredson—leadership professor, researcher, and bestselling author—to explore the hidden “being side” of personal and leadership growth. Together, they unpack the difference between horizontal and vertical development, the mental blocks that quietly hold us back, and why true transformation starts from the inside out. Al...

Drama doesn’t just live in big blowups or difficult people. More often, it shows up quietly — in our thoughts, our reactions, and the stories we tell ourselves when tension hits. In this episode of the People Warriors Podcast, Heather sits down with Claire Laughlin—leadership coach, consultant, and host of the THIS Leader Podcast—to unpack the patterns in our own thinking that create drama, how to...

What if leadership success isn’t about pushing harder, but learning to last longer? In this episode of People Warriors, Heather sits down with Tim Stevens, founder of Leading Smart and a leadership advisor with over 40 years of experience, to explore why so many leaders burn out—and what it actually takes to last. This is a practical, honest conversation for leaders who love what they do, but don’...

What if chaos wasn’t a threat, but an opportunity? In the Season One finale, Holly Tate brings her signature energy to a conversation about starting scared, navigating uncertainty, and her READY Framework for turning chaos into clarity. This conversation has got practical steps for leaders, teams, and anyone facing a season of growth or change.

What if the old saying, “It’s not personal...it’s just business,” is hurting your team and your brand? In this episode, Amy P. Kelly shares insights from her upcoming book Work IS Personal and practical strategies for showing employees you care at every stage of the journey. We also dive into her framework for handling difficult conversations with clarity and care - a skill every leader needs to b...

What does it take to lead frontline teams with heart - and still drive results? In this episode, Ryan Minton shares practical, people-first insights from his new book Uplifted: The Power of Positive Leadership on Frontline Teams. From presence to positivity, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone leading in hospitality, retail, healthcare, or any service-driven industry.

What if your goals weren’t based on status, salary, or someone else’s timeline—but on joy? In this episode, Lacenia Calloway shares a powerful reframe for young professionals chasing success without losing themselves in the process. We dive into the connection between spiritual and mental health, how to handle rejection with grace, and why joy-based goals can help you “fall on pillows” when life d...

What if the most powerful conversations weren’t just the ones that matter—but the ones that create matter? In this episode, connection expert Chad Littlefield - co-founder of We and Me, Inc. - shares practical, human-centered strategies for designing conversations that lead to action and lasting impact. We talk about moving from consumption to contribution, building authentic connection, and creat...

In this episode, I'm joined by Spud Marshall - author, facilitator, and creative community builder - who shares how he stayed in his small town and helped reinvent it through scrappy, wildly imaginative ventures. Together, we explore what real community looks like, how to engage people at every level of an organization, and why potlucks might just beat PowerPoints when it comes to innovation. If y...

In this episode, I chat with Pastor Jim Johnson - storyteller, spiritual mentor, and co-founding pastor of Preston Trail Community Church - for a candid conversation about work, calling, and the purpose God weaves into our careers. Whether you’re feeling stuck, thriving, burned out, or simply searching for meaning in your job, this episode offers timeless biblical wisdom and practical encouragemen...

What does it take to build—and sustain—the #1 Westin in the world? In this episode, I sit down with Volkan Tekinkoc, (former) General Manager of The Westin Dallas Southlake, to unpack the remarkable culture transformation that took his team from disconnected and average to top-ranked worldwide. We explore the systems, leadership habits, and mindset shifts that fueled their rise, including daily hu...

Hosted by Heather Italiano, the People Warriors Podcast is a variety-style show where curiosity leads the way. Real conversations with fascinating people about work, leadership, purpose, and everything in between—delivered in binge-worthy seasons, not just weekly drops. If you’re leading a team, chasing a dream, or craving more clarity and courage in your day-to-day, this podcast is for you.