The Talent Development Hot Seat

In this bonus Q&A with Brandon, he shares:His proudest moment and biggest failure in his career so farA trend that he is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge he sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on his lifeOne piece of career advice he has for youBrandon Birkmeyer is a former Coca-Cola and Apple Media Director with over twenty year of experience in marketing at the Big Five advertising agencies in New York City and Los Angeles advising top FORTUNE 100 companies on brand strategy. Brandon also produces and hosts a top-five branding podcast and YouTube channel called Brands On Brands. in 2024, Brandon wrote the book, Front & Center Leadership - How Leaders Use Personal Branding to Stand Out and How You Can Too, to help corporate employees and entrepreneurs stop getting overlooked and start using their personal brands to stand out in their lives and businesses. Brandon is now a sought-after personal branding coach, author, podcaster, and speaker.C

In today's episode, Brandon Birkmeyer shares his expertise on the transformative power of personal branding and its critical role in career advancement.Brandon discusses:The importance of shifting the talent development mindset to include personal growth and self-awareness, alongside traditional job-related skillsHis "four laws of leadership," emphasizing the need for clear goals and intentional actions to build a strong personal brandHow companies can support employees in building their brands, ultimately leading to greater recognition and successRecognizing and overcoming reluctance in leadershipPractical steps for standing out in corporate environments through effective communication and networkingBrandon Birkmeyer is a former Coca-Cola and Apple Media Director with over twenty year of experience in marketing at the Big Five advertising agencies in New York City and Los Angeles advising top FORTUNE 100 companies on brand strategy. Brandon also produces and hosts a top-five branding podcast and YouTube chan

In this bonus Q&A with Matt, he shares:His proudest moment and biggest failure in his career so farA trend that he is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge he sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on his lifeOne piece of career advice he has for youMatt Prostko has a rich business background with experience at the Vice-President and Director Level in semiconductor and software industries. Matt also led an office for a global management consulting practice focused on strategic execution and executive leadership development. Matt is the author of Ahead of the Chains and Cultural Momentum, business texts on organizational Vision, Strategy and Culture.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Join us at the Talent Development Think Tank ConferenceConnect with Matt Prostko:LinkedInWebsite

In today's episode, our host Andy Storch is joined by Matt Prostko, an expert in strategy execution, leadership development, and executive coaching.Together, Andy and Matt tackle the critical elements of building high-performance cultures within organizations. Forget about perks and flashy values; Matt explains how real culture is cultivated through shared experiences that compel team members to go the extra mile for their colleagues, company, and customers. Drawing on his extensive experience in industries like semiconductors and software, Matt underscores the importance of creating bonds, especially in remote or hybrid working environments, to enhance teamwork and culture.Matt Prostko has a rich business background with experience at the Vice-President and Director Level in semiconductor and software industries. Matt also led an office for a global management consulting practice focused on strategic execution and executive leadership development. Matt is the author of Ahead of the Chains and Cultural Moment

Today we have a remarkable keynote presentation from the Talent Development Think Tank Conference in February 2023. Our special guest, Susan Winchester, a former Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Applied Materials and Rockwell Automation, will share her transformative journey and insights into healing in the workplace.In this episode, Susan will share:Her personal struggles with alcoholism and depressionThe impact of limiting beliefsHow her past experiences shaped her careerInsight on neuroplasticity and positive psychology How adopting the PERMA model can lead to flourishing at workSusan introduces the concept of being an "Adult Survivor of a Damaged Past" and how understanding both big and small traumas can help us manage current workplace behavior and mental health. Susan's insights will teach us how to use workplace dynamics as opportunities for personal growth and emotional resilience.Susan Winchester is a transformative figure in the world of talent development and a former sen

Today, we are sharing the never before shared keynote from Claude Silver, the Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia from 2023's Talent Development Think Tank Conference. In this episode, Claude will share:Her groundbreaking approach to leadership, focusing on the power of empathy, human connection, and making people feel truly valued in the workplace. The importance of creating psychological safety and spaces of belonging, navigating the challenges of remote work, and fostering emotional intelligence.Her personal journey, from joining VaynerMedia eight and a half years ago to becoming the company's first Chief Heart Officer. Claude Silver is an empathetic leader renowned for her commitment to fostering human connections and psychological safety within workplaces. With an intuitive understanding of the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued, she emerges as a true "chief heart officer." Claude’s approach revolves around going the extra mile to ensure a sense of belonging and p

In this bonus Q&A with Matt, he shares:His proudest moment and biggest failure in his career so farA trend that he is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge he sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on his lifeOne piece of career advice he has for youMatt Elliott is Chief People Officer for Bank of Ireland Group. He has led the culture transformation of the Bank, developing a company where all colleagues thrive.A passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity, appeared as a leading ally in the Financial Times lists for gender, ethnicity and LGBT+ inclusion.Prior to that he was Group People Director with Virgin Money as part of the executive team who successfully acquired and integrated Northern Rock, and listed the company on the London Stock Exchange.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Join us at the Talent Development Think Tank ConferenceConnect with Matt Elliott:LinkedIn

Today we have a transformative episode featuring Matt Elliott, the Chief People Officer for the Bank of Ireland Group. With over two decades of experience in HR, Matt has led significant cultural transformations, particularly focusing on inclusion, diversity, and well-being.In this episode, we delve into:The competitive landscape that goes beyond banking to include tech giants, and how this competition positively affects the economy and organizational positioningInsights on how the Bank of Ireland has adapted post-pandemic, emphasizing HR transformation to prioritize employee well-being, mental health support, and the introduction of flexible work models.The importance of neuro inclusion, the impact of well-being programs, and the significant role managers play in promoting a supportive and caring work environmentHow Bank of Ireland's initiatives have led to improved employee engagement and a thriving workplace cultureMatt Elliott is Chief People Officer for Bank of Ireland Group. He has led the culture trans

In this bonus Q&A with Julie, she shares:Her proudest moment and biggest failure in her career so farA trend that she is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge she sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on her lifeOne piece of career advice she has for youJulie Winkle Giulioni is a champion for workplace growth and development and helps executives and leaders optimize talent and potential within their organizations. One of Inc. Magazine’s Top 100 speakers, she’s the co-author of the international bestseller, Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go, translated into seven languages and coming out in its third edition in September. Her latest book, Promotions Are So Yesterday: Redefine Career Development. Help Employees Thrive, has been recognized with Nautilus and AxiomBusiness Book Awards.Julie is a regular columnist for Training Industry Magazine and SmartBrief and contributes articles on leadership, career development, and workplace trends to numerous publi

Today we are thrilled to welcome back an incredible guest and champion for workplace growth and development, Julie Winkle Giulioni. Julie is a keynote speaker, international bestselling author, and a highly praised expert in leadership and career development.In this episode, we dive deep into:The evolving landscape of career development in the workplaceThe increasing integration of coaching and mentoringThe rising importance of meaningful work experiences post-pandemicInnovative tools like conversation roadmaps guided by AI botsThe significant impact of AI in training and developmentThe growing trend of reciprocal mentorship programsJulie shares valuable insights from her latest book, "Promotions Are So Yesterday," and discusses the ongoing relevance and adaptation of her acclaimed book, "Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go."Tune in as we uncover the key strategies for fostering continuous career growth and enhancing employee satisfaction in today’s complex job market. This episode is packed with actionable insig

In this bonus Q&A with Inga, she shares:Her proudest moment and biggest failure in her career so farA trend that she is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge she sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on her lifeOne piece of career advice she has for youInga Staniune is a visionary CHRO known for her innovative approach to cultivating self-awareness in leadership. Passionate about talent development, Inga stands out for her dedication to helping leaders and employees alike enhance their self-awareness, an essential foundation for outstanding leadership and career growth. Her methodology emphasizes the power of self-reflection—a simple yet often overlooked practice. Inga’s insights have made a significant impact, inspiring organizations to integrate self-awareness practices into their talent development strategies, ultimately fostering stronger personal brands and more effective leaders.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Develop

Today we have a fascinating conversation lined up with Inga Staniune, the Chief Human Resources Officer for Avia Solutions Group. Inga brings nearly two decades of HR expertise, coupled with a unique psychotherapeutic approach, to our discussion on leadership and self-awareness.In this episode, Inga shares:Her journey from starting the international group operations of Avia Solutions to navigating the complexities of a decentralized, multinational company.How she has successfully managed cultural differences across regions, the implementation of global HR processes, and the significant role of self-awareness in developing effective leaders.The innovative Leadership Academy program Inga developed, which incorporates continuous personal and professional development activities. The Ginger's Pentagram model—a holistic approach that balances various dimensions of life and leadership, essential for thriving in today's fast-paced business environment.Join us as we uncover invaluable insights on building self-awarene

In this bonus Q&A with Bernhard, he shares:His proudest moment and biggest failure in his career so farA trend that he is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge he sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on his lifeOne piece of career advice he has for youBernhard is the Founder & Ceo of Leaders who care. They firmly believe that workplace wellbeing is more than just a buzzword; it's the cornerstone of successful businesses in the 21st century. The WHO reports that globally, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity.Leaders who care is on a mission to make Wellbeing at Work an Executive objective and a strategic priority in every organisation across the world.Bernhard is a physician, a seasoned Executive leader and a long-standing ZEN and Mindfulness practitioner. Everything he will be talking about is based in hisown experiences, latest research and scie

Today, we're thrilled to bring you a captivating conversation with Bernard Kaumanns, the founder and CEO of Leaders Who Care. As a medical doctor turned executive, Bernard brings a unique, holistic perspective on the critical topics of mental health, well-being, and burnout in the workplace.In this episode, we discuss:The mindset and communication strategies essential for effective leadership and organizational changeThe pressure facing middle managers and the vital role that top management plays in driving cultural shiftsThe urgent need to engage Gen Z and Gen Alpha employees, who are increasingly drawn to purpose-driven organizationsJoin us as we explore the concept of a "healthy performance organization" and how businesses can benefit from addressing attrition, sick leave, and engagement rates. We'll hear Bernard's insights on the significance of self-awareness, self-compassion, and the necessity for leaders to prioritize and help teams focus to prevent burnout.Bernhard is the Founder & Ceo of Leaders

In this bonus Q&A with Zoe, she shares:Her proudest moment and biggest failure in her career so farA trend that she is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge she sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on her lifeOne piece of career advice she has for youFor over 20 years, Zoe has taught, coached, consulted, and studied in the area of human potential and change, supporting leaders and their teams to improve performance, achieve better organisational outcomes and navigate through change.She has worked globally across both public and private sectors and has consciously worked across different industries, bringing the lessons from each into her consulting and coaching practice.Zoe’s CPD accredited Certified Change Manager Program is designed for busy HR professionals who realise the value of upskilling in change management skills, enabling them to effectively and confidently lead their organisations and teams through change.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLin

Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Zoe Poulton, an expert in change management and leadership development with an impressive background spanning over 20 years in the Royal Air Force and corporate consulting.Zoe’s military career saw her handle roles in air defense, instruction, HR, and leadership development, including a major project to update officer training. She later transitioned to consulting and started her own venture, Glass Ripple Consulting. In our conversation, Zoe shares:Her unique insights into the similarities and differences between HR in the military and the corporate world, emphasizing the brain's resistance to change and the importance of communication and transparency.The challenges of leading organizational change, addressing employee concerns about job security and work-life balance, and the critical role of HR in equipping people with the skills to manage change effectively. Valuable advice to HR professionals on navigating change and understanding the "why" behind it all.Join

In this bonus Q&A with Klaus, he shares:His proudest moment and biggest failure in his career so farA trend that he is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge he sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on his lifeOne piece of career advice he has for youKlaus is on a mission to make people remarkable, growing the skills and the talent T-Systems needs.As a partner to the business, he reimagines learning strategies from upskilling, re-skilling, career mobility, talent acquisition to the self learning organization.Klaus is passionate about the experience of learning, creating learning journeys that are amazing – and deliver on their promise. Such as the digitize program – a program that delivered over 10.000 future skills for T-Systems.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Join us at the Talent Development Think Tank ConferenceConnect with Klaus Scheile:LinkedIn

Today we're diving deep into the pressing issues surrounding the future of the workforce with special guest, Klaus Scheile. Klaus is the Vice President of Global Learning and Development at T Systems, a division of Deutsche Telekom, and he brings a wealth of knowledge on sustainable people development, upskilling, and reskilling employees.In this episode, we tackle:The challenges posed by an aging workforce and declining birth rates, which lead to a shrinking talent poolThe impacts of AI and automation on white-collar jobs, and why it's more critical than ever for companies to retain and develop talent to survive and thriveInsights into how T Systems has successfully implemented a digitized reskilling program, certified 10,000 future skills, and navigated the complexities of identifying necessary skills with the help of big data and AI.You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at T Systems' innovative approaches to upskilling and reskilling, including their structured learning programs and government-supported fund

In this bonus Q&A with Sushmita, she shares:Her proudest moment and biggest failure in her career so farA trend that she is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge she sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on her lifeOne piece of career advice she has for youSushmita Mishra Sahoo is an HR leader with 20+ years of gloval experience leading HR teams towards building future ready organizations that unleash human potential. She was most recently was Global HR Director at Infeneon Technology.Connect with Andy Storch:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Join us at the Talent Development Think Tank ConferenceConnect with Sushmita Mishra Sahoo:LinkedIn

In today's conversation, we dive deep into the crucial realm of performance management and the often-overlooked need for comprehensive talent management strategies in organizations.Sushmita Mishra Sahoo brings over 20 years of international HR leadership experience across various industries, including engineering, healthcare, fintech, and computer education. Sushmita shares her vast expertise in managing talent development and fostering a thriving organizational culture in renowned multinational companies like Siemens and Infineon Technologies. She also opens up about her personal journey, sharing an inspiring story of overcoming a severe injury with the values of patience, confidence, and resilience instilled by her father.Sushmita shares the importance of leaders embracing change and actively involving functional heads in the process and the pivotal role of HR in change management, from transparent communication to ensuring smooth transitions and collaboration across different organizational cultures.Sushmi