Interaction

SE01 E25 - How to Engineer Company Culture That Actually Works | Joseph Machicote

John Kandray — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Joseph Machicote, a seasoned HR executive, cultural engineer, and author, with over 30 years of experience across hospitality, talent development, diversity leadership, and executive HR roles.
Joseph shares how culture can be intentionally designed and treated as a core business function rather than a vague set of values on a wall. He dives into practical strategies for building trust, communication, and accountability across organizations, especially at the mid-management level where challenges often arise. From blueprinting culture to handling conflict and creating psychologically safe environments, Joseph reveals how leaders can align day-to-day behaviors with their organizational mission, vision, and values.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to design and blueprint organizational culture as a business objective
• The role of leadership accountability and behavior in shaping culture
• How to foster effective communication and conflict resolution in teams
• Techniques for building trust and psychological safety in the workplace
• How to manage generational differences and employee expectations
• The power of owning mistakes and the role of apology in strengthening relationships
Joseph shows that culture isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a measurable, actionable system that drives engagement, alignment, and long-term organizational success.

🔗 Connect with Joseph Machicote:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-machicote-a3858a5/

📺 Subscribe to Interaction for more insightful conversations on leadership, culture, and organizational transformation.

👉 Like, comment, and share to join the conversation and help more leaders build thriving workplaces.

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

Listen to Interaction on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1CRyAOtxD4kcILBLR90GJs
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/interaction/id1815701458
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/021f1171-6809-44fa-8ac4-17ca01eff6cf/interaction

#InteractionPodcast #InclusiveLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #WorkplaceCulture #HumanConnection #LeadershipDevelopment #FutureOfWork #ResilientLeadership #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipPodcast #EmployeeWellbeing #AuthenticLeadership #WorkplaceBelonging #LeadingWithEmpathy
The Interaction Podcast hosted by John Kandray dives into the evolving world of leadership and workplace culture. With a focus on inclusive leadership, psychological safety, resilience, and authentic connection, each episode brings you conversations with forward-thinking leaders and experts. Together, we explore practical strategies for creating workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. Whether you’re leading a team, shaping culture, or simply curious about the human side of high performance, this podcast offers insights to help you navigate change with confidence and impact.

SE01 E24 - Enhancing Service Impact Through Community Engagement | Esayas Wureta

John Kandray — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:10:03 +0100

In this episode of the Interaction Podcast, host John Kandray sits down with Esayas Wureta, leader of inclusion, belonging, and community impact at CSAA Insurance Group, for a deep and thoughtful conversation on culture, leadership, and what it truly takes to build people-driven organisations.

Esayas shares how inclusion and belonging are not just internal initiatives, but essential drivers of business performance, employee engagement, and community resilience. Drawing on real-world experience, he explains how organisations can intentionally design culture across flexible and remote workplaces, especially in a post-COVID environment.

Together, John and Esayas explore how leaders can become active architects of culture by creating shared experiences, investing in relationships, and leading with accountability rooted in trust rather than shame. They discuss psychological safety, navigating conflict constructively, embracing vulnerability in leadership, and why curiosity, cultural humility, and giving expected grace are critical skills for emerging and experienced leaders alike.
This episode also dives into onboarding as a cultural touchpoint, supporting middle managers, fostering community impact through volunteerism, and aligning internal culture with external responsibility. If you are a leader looking to build stronger teams, create inclusive workplaces, and lead with both heart and impact, this conversation offers practical insights and real-world examples you can apply immediately.

Guest: Esayas Wureta
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esayas-wureta/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E23 - Empowering People and Progress Through Human-Centric AI | James Hutson

John Kandray — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with James Hutson, Chief AI Researcher for Human-Centered AI at Lindenwood University, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping work, education, and what it means to remain human in a rapidly automated world.

James brings deep insight into the concept of human-centered AI, challenging the dominant efficiency-first mindset shaping most AI adoption today. Drawing from research across education and the workforce, he explains why many organizations are bending humans to fit AI tools rather than designing technology to support human needs, wellbeing, and creativity.
Together, John and James explore the real impact of AI at work, from productivity pressure and workforce upskilling to emotional reliance on AI tools and the ethical risks of engagement-driven design. They also unpack the skills that will matter most in the future of work, including empathy, communication, adaptability, and creative thinking.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What human-centered AI really means and why it matters
• How AI is changing productivity, workload, and quality of life at work
• Why efficiency gains often lead to more work rather than more freedom
• The rise of AI as emotional support and the ethical implications
• What AI psychosis is and how safeguards actually work
• The uniquely human skills that will remain valuable in an AI-driven economy
• Why separating identity from vocation is becoming essential

James shows that the future of work is not about competing with machines, but about doubling down on what makes us human empathy, creativity, communication, and meaningful connection.

🔗 Connect with James Hutson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshutsonphd/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E22 - THE POWER OF CURIOSITY IN DRIVING GROWTH AND DISCOVERY | Christopher Lee Johnson

John Kandray — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Christopher Lee Johnson, the Chief Diversity Officer at Frost Brown Todd, where he leads strategic initiatives that strengthen inclusion, equity, and organizational culture.

Christopher brings a rich perspective on how curiosity—the willingness to ask, explore, and challenge assumptions—drives both personal and professional growth.
Through his experiences in diversity leadership and organizational development, he reveals how curiosity fuels innovation, deepens understanding, and opens pathways to meaningful discovery.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How curiosity influences leadership, decision-making, and cultural awareness
• Why asking the right questions unlocks new opportunities for growth
• The role curiosity plays in strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion
• How organizations benefit when employees feel safe to explore and learn
• Practical ways leaders can cultivate curiosity within teams
• How openness and inquiry shape long-term innovation
Christopher shows that curiosity is not simply a trait — it’s a powerful skill that transforms workplaces, strengthens relationships, and drives discovery at every level.

🔗 Connect with Christopher Lee Johnson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdlee/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E21 - THE JOURNEY OF GROWTH THROUGH TRIALS AND TRANSFORMATION | Wendy Bradford

John Kandray — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Wendy Bradford, a mission-driven Human Resources Executive known for shaping inclusive, high-performing workplaces and leading people-centered transformation.

With a career defined by resilience, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to human potential, Wendy shares her personal and professional journey — one marked by growth, challenge, and purposeful reinvention.
Her story shines a light on how trials, transitions, and pivotal experiences can become catalysts for meaningful transformation, both for individuals and the organizations they serve.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How challenges can shape stronger, more authentic leadership
• Why inclusive people strategies lead to long-term organizational success
• How personal trials inform workplace empathy and decision-making
• The mindset required to grow through adversity, not just move through it
• Practical lessons on building high-performing, people-centric environments
• How transformation begins with self-awareness, courage, and compassion
Wendy’s perspective underscores one powerful truth: transformation is not a single moment — it’s a journey built on continuous learning, resilience, and commitment to people.

🔗 Connect with Wendy Bradford:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-r-bradford-1260538/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E20 - DRIVING IMPACT THROUGH A PEOPLE-FOCUSED APPROACH | Heather Stewart

John Kandray — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Heather Stewart, the Director of Employee Learning and Development at College of the Canyons, where she leads initiatives designed to strengthen employee growth, engagement, and organizational culture.

Heather brings a powerful perspective on how a people-focused approach can elevate performance, build trust, and create meaningful impact at every level of an institution.
Drawing from her extensive experience in learning and development, she highlights why investing in people is not just beneficial — it’s essential for long-term success.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How people-first strategies reshape organizational performance
• The role of continuous learning in creating empowered teams
• Why understanding employees' needs builds a stronger workplace culture
• Practical ways leaders can support development and morale
• How people-focused initiatives translate into measurable impact
• The importance of empathy, communication, and purpose-driven alignment
Heather’s insights demonstrate how the future of organizational success lies in elevating people — not just processes.

🔗 Connect with Heather Stewart:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherkstewart/

🎙️ Episode Title:
Driving Impact Through a People-Focused Approach

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E19 - LEADING WITH TRANSPARENCY TO BUILD TRUST AND GROWTH | Keith Powers

John Kandray — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray sits down with Keith Powers, an experienced Executive Coach and Leadership Advisor, to explore how transparency in leadership fuels trust, team alignment, and sustainable growth.
Keith shares valuable insights on creating open communication cultures, handling tough conversations with honesty, and building teams that thrive on accountability and mutual respect. From leadership authenticity to strategic decision-making, this discussion highlights the real-world impact of leading with openness and integrity.
If you’re interested in leadership development, team trust, and organizational growth, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiring takeaways for leaders at every level.

✨ Key Takeaways:
How transparent leadership drives engagement and growth
Building trust through open communication and consistency
Empowering teams with clarity and purpose
Why authenticity is the foundation of strong leadership

🔗 Connect with Keith Powers:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithppowers/

📺 Subscribe to Interaction for more insightful conversations on leadership, trust, and organizational transformation.
👉 Like, comment, and share to join the conversation and help more leaders grow forward.

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E18 - NAVIGATING CHAOS WITH HONEST AND POSITIVE LEADERSHIP | Frank Gonzalez

John Kandray — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this insightful episode of Interaction, host John Kandray welcomes Dr. Frank Gonzalez, a respected Leadership Coach and Organizational Psychologist, to discuss how leaders can navigate chaos with honesty, positivity, and authentic connection.
Dr. Gonzalez shares practical strategies on maintaining clarity and integrity in times of uncertainty, fostering trust within teams, and turning disruption into opportunity. From building emotional resilience to leading with empathy and optimism, this conversation uncovers what it truly takes to guide people through change while staying grounded in purpose.
If you’re passionate about leadership mindset, emotional intelligence, and positive organizational culture, this episode offers powerful lessons for leading through turbulence.

✨ Key Takeaways:
Leading with honesty and optimism during uncertain times
Turning chaos into clarity through communication and trust
Building emotionally intelligent leadership teams
Creating cultures rooted in authenticity and accountability

🔗 Connect with Dr. Frank Gonzalez:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankgonzaleziv/

📺 Subscribe to Interaction for more thought-provoking conversations on leadership, culture, and human potential.
👉 Like, comment, and share if this episode inspired your leadership journey!

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E17 - HELPING PEOPLE LEARN USING LEADERSHIP SIMULATION | Robert Resnick

John Kandray — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Robert Resnick, a leading Leadership Development Expert and Executive Coach, to explore how leadership simulations are transforming the way people learn, grow, and lead.
Robert shares his expertise on using experiential learning tools and simulation-based training to build real-world leadership skills. From creating safe spaces for leaders to practice decision-making to designing immersive experiences that mirror complex organizational challenges, this conversation dives into how learning by doing drives lasting transformation.
If you’re passionate about leadership development, experiential learning, or innovative training design, this episode will give you fresh perspectives on how simulation can turn leadership theory into practice.

✨ Key Takeaways:
How leadership simulations enhance learning and retention
Designing immersive learning experiences that build real-world skills
The power of feedback and reflection in leadership growth
Why experiential learning is the future of leadership development

🔗 Connect with Robert Resnick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robresnick/

📺 Subscribe to Interaction for more conversations with leading voices in leadership, learning, and innovation.
👉 Like, comment, and share to keep the dialogue growing!

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E16 - CHAMPIONING CULTURE AND PROACTIVE LEADERSHIP | Kristal Walker

John Kandray — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode of Interaction, host John Kandray is joined by Dr. Kristal Walker, a distinguished Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, and Learning & Development Expert, to unpack what it truly means to champion organizational culture and lead proactively in an era of constant change.
Dr. Walker shares her insights on how great leaders cultivate learning mindsets, empower teams through intentional development, and create cultures where innovation thrives. From reimagining leadership as a continuous learning journey to fostering authenticity and empathy at every level, this episode delivers transformative takeaways for modern professionals.
If you’re passionate about leadership growth, organizational learning, and building cultures of purpose, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

✨ Key Takeaways:
How proactive leadership drives sustainable culture change
The future of Learning & Development in leadership
Creating organizations that learn, adapt, and thrive
Why empathy and curiosity are the new leadership superpowers

🔗 Connect with Dr. Kristal Walker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristalwalker/

📺 Subscribe to Interaction for more conversations with leading voices in leadership, learning, and innovation.
👉 Like, comment, and share to keep the dialogue growing!

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E15 - HOW WORKPLACE EXPECTATIONS HAVE TRANSFORMED OVER TIME | Timothy Tolino

John Kandray — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Interaction, host John Kandray speaks with Timothy Tolino, the Global Director of Benefits, Mobility, and Wellness at Hunter Douglas, where he leads large-scale employee programs that support an evolving global workforce.
With extensive experience designing benefits and wellness strategies across borders, Timothy offers a unique viewpoint on how workplaces have transformed not just structurally, but culturally, technologically, and in terms of human expectations.

From shifts in employee priorities to the rise of flexible work models, Timothy shares how organizations can remain adaptable and supportive in a rapidly changing environment.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How the modern workplace has evolved over the last decade
• The changing expectations employees have from employers
• Why benefits, mobility, and wellness programs now play a strategic role
• The influence of technology on global workforce experience
• How companies can support well-being and productivity simultaneously
• What leaders must understand to build workplaces that attract and retain talent

Timothy offers a clear, practical lens on the past, present, and future of work and what businesses must embrace to stay relevant.

🔗 Connect with Timothy Tolino:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ttolino/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E14 - BRINGING BALANCE TO YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE | Elyssa Campo

John Kandray — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this powerful and insightful conversation, John Kandray sits down with Elyssa Campo, Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Ceres, to discuss how to develop, implement and measure strategic DEI initiatives across talent management, event planning, programming and talent development.

Connect with Elyssa on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elyssacampo/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E13 - CREATING A WORKSPACE THAT DRIVES INNOVATION | Necko Fanning

John Kandray — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:15:42 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Necko Fanning, a DEI and Culture Leader, writer, and editor whose career has been dedicated to driving meaningful organizational change through inclusion, empathy, and storytelling. With over a decade of experience leading diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) initiatives, Necko brings a thoughtful perspective on how companies can navigate change, build stronger cultures, and empower people to bring their full selves to work.

Our conversation explores how inclusive leadership fuels business growth, why authentic storytelling matters in shaping workplace culture, and what it takes to create lasting impact in times of transformation.

Connect with Necko on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/necko-fanning-735511144/?skipRedirect=true&restoreScroll=true&miniProfileUrn=null&enhance=null

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E12 - UNDERSTANDING YOUR VALUES AND THEIR PLACE IN THE WORKPLACE | Peter Mostachetti

John Kandray — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this inspiring conversation, John Kandray sits down with Peter Mostachetti, Senior Director of Employee Experience, Learning, and Inclusion at Ipsy.

They discuss Peter’s journey, his approach to building inclusive workplace cultures, and how employee experience and continuous learning are shaping the future of work. Tune in to hear insights on leadership, authenticity, and creating environments where people truly belong.

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E11 - FACILITATING THE NEEDS OF MIDDLE MANAGEMENT | Christine Alba Quaranto

John Kandray — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this inspiring conversation, John Kandray sits down with Christine Alba Quaranto, Director of Learning and Talent Development, to explore the impact of effective leadership development and learning strategies in today’s workplace. Christine shares her insights on aligning corporate initiatives with talent programs, fostering a culture of continuous growth, and designing engaging training that motivates and empowers teams.

Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caquaranto/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E10 - The Importance of Investing in Your Work Culture | Malaika Serrano

John Kandray — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:02:43 +0100

In this episode, John Kandray sits down with Malaika Serrano, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) at Guild Education. Malaika shares her journey of building and scaling an award-winning enterprise learning and inclusion function at a high-growth startup, and how she leverages AI to design strategies that strengthen leadership pipelines, expand learner capabilities, and foster inclusive, high-performing cultures.

Connect with Malaika on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malaikaserrano/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E09 - INCLUSION BY INFUSION, NOT OBLIGATION | Alex Zeitz

John Kandray — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this powerful and insightful conversation, John Kandray sits down with Alex Zeitz, Head of International Operations, Resiliency, and Inclusion at Virgin Voyages. Alex shares how Virgin Voyages is redefining the culture of cruising by prioritizing inclusion, belonging, and accessibility—not just for guests (“sailors”) but also for its diverse crew of nearly 100 nationalities. From eliminating visual hierarchies on board to infusing diversity into everyday experiences, Alex details the intentional systems behind creating a space where everyone can thrive. This episode dives deep into leadership accountability, psychological safety, and the real ROI of inclusion.

Connect with Alex on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderzeitz/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

The Interaction Podcast hosted by John Kandray dives into the evolving world of leadership and workplace culture. With a focus on inclusive leadership, psychological safety, resilience, and authentic connection, each episode brings you conversations with forward-thinking leaders and experts. Together, we explore practical strategies for creating workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. Whether you’re leading a team, shaping culture, or simply curious about the human side of high performance, this podcast offers insights to help you navigate change with confidence and impact.

SE01 E08 - WHY FINDING "YOUR TRIBE" IS MORE SUSTAINABLE THAN FORCED BELONGING | Lillian Evans

John Kandray — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this dynamic conversation, John Kandray welcomes Lillian Evans—Director at the Train to Flu Institute at SUNY Oswego and CEO of “Just a Little Bit”—to unpack what authentic inclusion and equity really mean in modern workplaces. Lillian dives into the tension between generational expectations, the real meaning of belonging, and why diversity work must go deeper than surface-level DEI checkboxes. With a refreshingly candid and thoughtful presence Lillian shares how leaders can start building workplaces where people don’t just belong—but thrive.

Connect with Lillian on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilliandarleneevans/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E07 - MY BALANCED APPROACH TO ADVOCACY, WORKPLACE NEEDS & MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING | John Bryson

John Kandray — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this powerful episode, John Kandray is joined by John Bryson, Senior Director of Learning and Development at Rangam Consultants, to discuss how organizations can create cultures of empathy, inclusion, and psychological safety. With decades of experience in disability employment and neurodiversity advocacy, Bryson shares practical strategies for transforming workplaces—especially in how leaders show up, manage conflict, and create space for all voices to be heard. This is a must-listen for HR leaders, DEI professionals, and anyone looking to lead with more intention and impact.

Connect with John on LInkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bryson-ms-ed-49a15b2a/

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss new uploads!
- John

Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kandray/

Visit the John Kandray Consulting website here: https://johnkandrayconsulting.com/

SE01 E06 - LEAD WITH VULNERABILITY AND COACH THROUGH DISCOMFORT | With Steve Sorenson

John Kandray — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode, John speaks with Steve Sorenson, Senior Director of Learning and Culture at Johnsonville. The conversation offers a rare, inside look at how Johnsonville is operationalizing its mission to develop people’s “God-given talents” in a modern business context. Steve shares powerful stories about leading with vulnerability, coaching through discomfort, and holding high standards without compromising humanity. From birthday cards to humble candor, this episode brings out the heart behind the sausage brand’s culture.

Connect with Steve on LInkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-sorenson-994a5915/

#interaction #newpodcast #newseries #foryou #podcast

SE01 E05 - WHAT DOES GROWTH AND FAIRNESS LOOK LIKE? | With Trudy Halliman

John Kandray — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode, John Kandray sits down with Trudy Halliman, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Flick Hospitality Group. Trudy shares her 15-year journey with the company, including her current DEI leadership role and the organization’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity and hospitality excellence. Their conversation dives deep into workplace culture, employee well-being, and the strategic integration of DEI in daily operations. They also explore the impact of AI, emotional intelligence, and how to future-proof company culture through transparency, psychological safety, and continuous growth opportunities.

This is a masterclass in human-centered leadership. Trudy’s insights are not just thoughtful—they’re actionable. A must-listen for HR leaders, DEI professionals, and anyone building people-first workplaces.

#interaction #newpodcast #newseries #foryou #podcast

SE01 E04 - WHAT DO WE GAIN (AND LOSE) FROM WORKPLACE COMMUNITY? | With Dr. Joanna Thompson

John Kandray — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this insightful and energizing episode, John sits down with Dr. Joanna Thompson, Director of DEI at One Workplace. They explore the evolving nature of inclusion, belonging, and well-being in today’s hybrid workplace. Joanna brings a refreshing, grounded perspective shaped by her experience in both higher ed and the corporate world. The conversation ranges from the tactical—like building community through team summits and ERGs—to the deeply personal, such as the emotional labor of DEI work and the challenge of vulnerability at work. A must-listen for anyone navigating culture change and trying to future-proof their organization.

#interaction #newpodcast #newseries #foryou #podcast

SE01 E03 - WHAT ARE THE MUST-HAVE SKILLS FOR INCLUSIVE LEADERS? | With Kanetra (Kiki) Hights

John Kandray — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this powerful conversation, John Kandray interviews Drury (Dru) Fulcher, a DEI leader working within a local management entity in North Carolina. They dive deep into the evolving challenges of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in today's workplace climate, the quiet rollback of DEI initiatives, and what it truly means to create a culture of engagement, empathy, and trust. Dru emphasizes the necessity of leadership consistency, emotional intelligence, and redefining "soft skills" as core leadership competencies. Their exchange sheds light on how organizations can retain talent by building meaningful, values-aligned cultures—even amid systemic shifts and organizational grief.

#interaction #newpodcast #newseries #foryou #podcast

SE01 E02 - WHAT HAPPENS WHEN PEOPLE START TO DISENGAGE? | With Dru Fulcher

John Kandray — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0100

#interaction #newpodcast #newseries #foryou #podcast

SE01 E01 - WHAT DOES FAIRNESS IN THE WORKPLACE REALLY LOOK LIKE? | With Tyrone Quarterman

John Kandray — Fri, 23 May 2025 12:33:15 +0100

In this episode, John Kandray sits down with Tyrone Quarterman, Director of Inclusion and Diversity at Day & Zimmermann. They dive deep into the evolving landscape of workplace fairness, allyship, and the role of AI in the future of work. Tyrone offers thoughtful takes on equity vs. equality, how leaders can genuinely support marginalized voices, and why openness and transparency are key to attracting and retaining talent. The conversation is rich with actionable insights and human moments—perfect for DEI professionals and leaders looking to create more inclusive and resilient organizations.