Fringe by PeopleForward Network

PeopleForward Network
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Management
  • Updated Monthly

Fringe is a collection of content to educate and inspire you on your leadership journey. Whether it's talent acquisition, well-being, or the future of work- Fringe by PFN has content to support you on your development journey.

  1. The Story Behind the Why: A conversation about leadership with Tony Hartsgrove

    21h ago

    The Story Behind the Why: A conversation about leadership with Tony Hartsgrove

    We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from The Story Effect with Danielle Krischik captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! — Most leaders talk about culture. Tony Hartsgrove built one by telling the truth, trusting the data, and refusing to separate business growth from human growth. Danielle Krischik sits down with Tony Hartsgrove, CEO of ODC Construction, the largest shell contractor in the Southeast, to unpack what it really takes to lead through growth, acquisition, risk, and change. Tony shares how ODC grew from roughly $20 million to $400 million in revenue, why data became the company's secret sauce, and how purpose only matters when leaders make it real through stories, behavior, and accountability. From childhood lessons and imposter syndrome to luck, ambition, people-first pay, and the "back work" leaders must do before asking teams to follow, this conversation is honest, sharp, funny, and deeply human. It is a reminder that leadership is not about pretending to have it all figured out. It is about caring enough to build something bigger than yourself.   Additional Resources: Listen to The Story Effect wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn Learn more at The Story Effect Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Purpose sticks when leaders make it personal. Data builds trust during major change. Growth requires risk, revenue, and courage. Your story shapes you, but doesn't define you. People-first leadership includes financial care.

    1h 6m
  2. Connecting the Dots on People-Centered Culture and Results with Enrique Rubio

    1d ago

    Connecting the Dots on People-Centered Culture and Results with Enrique Rubio

    We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact. This special feature from Gut + Science with Nikki Lewallen Gregory captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy! ---- People success is business success, and leaders can't afford to treat those ideas as separate anymore. Nikki sits down with Enrique Rubio, founder of Hacking HR, to unpack how people-centered organizations create measurable business advantage. Enrique challenges leaders to move beyond transactional thinking and build workplaces where people are seen as whole humans, not just employees. From autonomy and flexibility to talent pipelines and human experience, this conversation connects the dots between culture, engagement, performance, and long-term sustainability. If you're ready to stop chasing quick fixes and start building a people-first culture that actually drives results, this episode is your call to begin the journey with clarity, courage, and commitment.   Additional Resources: Listen to Gut + Science wherever you get your podcasts!  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: People success and business success are deeply connected. Flexibility builds trust, autonomy, engagement, and performance. People-first culture is a continuous leadership journey. Human experience goes beyond traditional employee engagement. Great workplaces know why people choose them.

    42 min
  3. The Psychology of Swag on Working Forward: Why We Keep What We Keep

    6d ago

    The Psychology of Swag on Working Forward: Why We Keep What We Keep

    That branded mug on your desk might be doing more than holding coffee. It could be shaping memory, emotion, and loyalty in ways most leaders never stop to consider. Eric and Crissy have a fascinating conversation on the psychology behind why some merchandise becomes meaningful while most gets tossed aside. Together, they explore how neuroscience, sensory engagement, and emotional attachment influence whether a simple object turns into a lasting brand connection. From favorite pens and nostalgic mugs to innovative gifting strategies that drive real engagement, Crissy shares practical insights leaders can use to make every branded moment intentional and impactful. If you have ever wondered how to turn everyday touchpoints into powerful relationship builders, this episode will change how you think about swag, storytelling, and the small details that shape culture.   Additional Resources: Learn how to build your strategy to swag! Connect with Crissy on LinkedIn Learn more about Robertson Marketing Connect with Eric on LinkedIn Subscribe to PFN's YouTube for more insights like this! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Emotional connection determines whether branded merchandise is remembered Utility increases frequency of use and brand visibility Sensory engagement strengthens memory and loyalty Choice increases perceived ownership and product value Intentional gifting drives measurable engagement and influence

    36 min
  4. Introducing The Ruff Truth: A New Series on PeopleForward Network

    May 20

    Introducing The Ruff Truth: A New Series on PeopleForward Network

    The best leadership lessons sometimes come from the ones closest to the ground. 🐾 We're so excited to introduce you to The Ruff Truth, PeopleForward Network's newest original series. Hosted by Cardi G, Chief Happiness Officer, and Lake, Security Protector General, they set the stage for a fresh, funny, and people-first look at workplace leadership. Together, they call out the mystery meetings, urgent emergencies, disappearing leaders, and communication chaos that make teams cringe. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of truth, Cardi G and Lake spotlight the behaviors that actually make people feel clear, cared for, aligned, and energized. Supported by OnePack Plan™ by PetPartners, this season serves up bite-sized workplace stories, leadership wins, and practical reminders that caring for dogs also means caring for the people who love them. 🐶   The Ruff Truth is sponsored by OnePack Plan™ by PetPartners, because happy pets = happy teams. Learn how to foster a pet-friendly culture with OnePack Plan pet insurance.   Additional Resources: Learn more about OnePack Plan™ Learn more about The Ruff Truth! Follow PFN on Instagram! Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

    2 min
  5. Not Sorry with Ashley Butler: A New Series on Conscious Conversations

    May 13

    Not Sorry with Ashley Butler: A New Series on Conscious Conversations

    When you've done everything "right," the title, the success, the status, but still feel off course, what comes next? In this raw and revealing kickoff to the Not Sorry series on Conscious Conversations, Amy welcomes her new thought partner, Dr. Ashley Butler, for a soul-deep conversation about identity, permission, and shedding the expectations that no longer serve us. Ashley shares her courageous journey from the operating room to entrepreneurship, to a necessary pause and radical reinvention. She opens up about walking away from a high-powered medical career, shutting down a mission-driven business, and facing the uncomfortable silence of not knowing what's next. What emerges is a powerful message about reclaiming agency over your life, not out of apology, but from radical honesty. With her signature mix of vulnerability and clarity, Ashley unpacks the three pillars that now guide her path: Permission, Power, and Purpose. This episode isn't about quitting, it's about choosing again, and doing it for the right reasons. If you've ever asked yourself, "Whose life am I really living?" this one's for you. And it's only the beginning.   Additional Resources: Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn Subscribe to Ashley's Substack Newsletter! Subscribe to Conscious Habit on YouTube! Join the "Conscious Conversations" Community! Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Learn more about Conscious Habit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: True healing starts by pausing, not pushing forward. Titles don't define worth or future direction. Living for others leads to quiet self-abandonment. Purpose evolves, let it grow with you. Permission is the first step to realignment.

    38 min
  6. Live from CultureCon: Making Multigenerational Teams Work with Megan Berki

    Apr 15

    Live from CultureCon: Making Multigenerational Teams Work with Megan Berki

    What happens when Gen Zs and Boomers team up at work? Live from CultureCon 2025, Nikki Lewallen Gregory sits down with Megan Berki of Rocket Lawyer for a powerful conversation on bridging generational gaps in the workplace. With five generations now working side-by-side, Megan shares how leaders can turn differences into strengths, from Gen Z's TikTok-fueled learning to Boomers' process-driven mindset. Packed with real examples from Rocket Lawyer, this episode explores communication strategies, culture wins (and flops), and how to build a people-first workplace where everyone feels seen and supported. Whether you're leading, managing, or just navigating the mix, this one's for you. 🚀   Additional Resources: Connect with Megan on LinkedIn Learn more about Rocket Lawyer Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Five generations coexist, each with distinct needs and preferences. Tech-native Gen Z differs significantly from tech-savvy Millennials. Communication must be multi-channel and predictably consistent. Aligning tech tools to user habits drives adoption. Culture thrives when values are actionable and inclusive.

    26 min
  7. The Better Boss on Show Up As a Leader: Be The First to Respect

    Apr 1

    The Better Boss on Show Up As a Leader: Be The First to Respect

    The fastest way to elevate your leadership doesn't require a new strategy, a bigger budget, or a corner office. It starts with one word: hello. In this episode of The Better Boss, Gregg breaks down a deceptively simple yet transformational practice called "Be the First to Respect." Drawing from his early career at John Jay College and the unforgettable example of a president who made everyone feel seen, Gregg reveals why initiating a greeting, and using someone's name, carries far more influence than most leaders realize. Backed by social psychology and practical experience from the R-Factor Leadership Workshop, Gregg explains how being the first to acknowledge someone removes hesitation, builds instant rapport, and creates a powerful ripple effect of respect throughout your organization. This isn't about small talk. It's about intentional connection. It's about sending the message that every person matters. If you want your team to warm up to your ideas, receive your feedback openly, and genuinely respect your leadership, this episode gives you a technique you can use today.   Additional Resources: Listen to all episodes of The Better Boss on Show Up As a Leader Connect with Gregg on LinkedIn Take the Am I a Respectful Leader? Self-Assessment Learn more about The Center for Respectful Leadership Invest in Manager Skills with the R-Factor Workshop Subscribe to the PFN YouTube Channel for daily leadership insights! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Say hello first, it's a leadership move. Use people's names to affirm their worth. Respect reduces social friction instantly. Initiation creates a powerful ripple effect. Consistency earns trust and reciprocation.

    15 min
  8. Live from CultureCon: Wrestling with Leadership Chaos with Coleman Williams

    Mar 18

    Live from CultureCon: Wrestling with Leadership Chaos with Coleman Williams

    What happens when every leader in your company defines "leadership" their own way? Spoiler alert: chaos. Live from the CultureCon 2025 studio in Madison, Wisconsin, Nikki Lewallen Gregory teams up with Coleman Williams, co-founder of Wrestling With Talent, to get real about the chaos that comes from undefined leadership. From inconsistent one-on-ones to unclear goal-setting, they explore how structure creates fairness without crossing into micromanagement. They also unpack how companies can onboard leaders with clarity, integrate AI for more effective training, and give employees a consistent, people-first experience, especially during change. This is your blueprint for leadership done right.   Additional Resources: Connect with Coleman on LinkedIn Learn more about Wrestling with Talent Listen to The CultureCon Podcast Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Learn more about CultureCon Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network   Key Takeaways: Clear leadership expectations reduce workplace inconsistency. Guardrails are not micromanagement, they offer direction. Start small to avoid overwhelming leaders with change. AI can enhance, not replace, leadership onboarding. Consistency supports fairness in the employee experience.

    26 min
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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

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Fringe is a collection of content to educate and inspire you on your leadership journey. Whether it's talent acquisition, well-being, or the future of work- Fringe by PFN has content to support you on your development journey.

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