Human In The Room

Betsy Gardner
  • 5.0 (7)
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The Human in the Room podcast is for people figuring out how work actually works. Hosted by Betsy Gardner, this podcast explores the conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics that shape modern careers. Each episode breaks down the human side of leadership development, career growth, workplace culture, people strategy, communication, and the future of work in the age of AI. Designed for emerging leaders, ambitious professionals, and anyone navigating intergenerational workplaces, Human in the Room offers practical insights on managing up, building trust, developing soft skills, leading with judgment, and growing your influence at work. Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, working in human resources, business development, or simply trying to become more effective at work, this podcast helps you build the credibility and human-centered leadership skills that matter most. Subscribe for more episodes on leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Learn more at humanintheroombook.com and betsygardner.com

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    10. What NASA’s Columbia Accident Teaches Us About AI and Workplace Culture

    What can NASA’s Columbia accident teach today’s leaders about AI, workplace culture, leadership, and human judgment? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with former NASA engineer and organizational culture expert Phillip Meade, who spent nearly 30 years at NASA and played a pivotal role in the culture transformation at Kennedy Space Center following the 2003 Columbia accident. The Columbia Accident Investigation Board found that NASA’s organizational culture, communication practices, and decision-making processes contributed to the tragedy alongside the physical failure that damaged the shuttle. Phillip was subsequently tasked with helping Kennedy Space Center understand and transform the behaviors and beliefs behind that culture. Today, as organizations rapidly adopt artificial intelligence, Phillip sees striking parallels. Companies are investing in AI tools, automation, new workflows, and organizational restructuring. But while the technology may be ready for AI transformation, many organizations are less prepared for the human side of AI in the workplace.  Betsy and Phillip explore workplace culture, organizational culture, AI and leadership, human judgment, employee trust, psychological safety, workforce transformation, and the future of work.  They discuss what happens when organizations prioritize efficiency without considering the human experiences that build expertise, intuition, institutional knowledge, and future leaders. They also explore why AI efficiency should not automatically mean workforce reduction. Phillip introduces return on labor as another way leaders can evaluate whether AI is actually making their existing workforce more productive and profitable. You’ll learn: -What NASA’s Columbia accident revealed about organizational culture and leadership -Why a “good” workplace culture is not necessarily an effective culture -Why AI in the workplace is fundamentally a leadership and culture challenge -How AI could unintentionally weaken human judgment and institutional knowledge -Why eliminating entry-level roles could create future leadership gaps -How leaders can measure AI productivity through return on labor -Why employees need real-world “reps” to develop intuition and judgment -How leaders can intentionally design workplace culture around business strategy -Why curiosity may matter more than being the smartest person in the room -How trust, communication, and human judgment become more valuable as AI improves Phillip describes effective culture as one that produces the behaviors and beliefs an organization needs to execute its strategy, rather than simply one where employees are engaged or happy. And perhaps most importantly, this conversation asks leaders to consider what we’re losing while AI makes work easier. If the next generation never gets the experiences that develop judgment, intuition, courage, and institutional knowledge, who will be prepared to make the difficult decisions when technology can’t make them for us? That is the Human in the Room question: as AI changes work, how do we make sure we are still developing the human capabilities technology cannot replace — presence, judgment, and trust? Time Stamps 00:00 – What NASA’s Columbia Accident Can Teach Us04:38 – “Failure Is Not an Option” Has a Dark Side08:27 – Why Companies Aren’t Humanly Ready for AI12:41 – Measuring AI Through Return on Labor16:25 – The Long-Term Cost of Cutting Entry-Level Talent21:04 – Are We Losing the Reps That Build Judgment?25:33 – A “Good” Culture Can Still Be Dangerous30:11 – What the Columbia Accident Revealed About NASA34:48 – How to Intentionally Design an Effective Culture39:37 – Leading Without Being the Smartest Person in the Room45:02 – The Day NASA Asked Phillip to Help Change Its Culture50:13 – Columbia, Complacency, and the Leadership Lesson That RemainsStay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations. Enroll in the Human in the Room Audit: https://wkf.ms/43PoaDW Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Connect with Phillip Meade Gallagher's Edge https://www.gallaghersedge.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/philliptmeade/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt Topics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  2. Sep 25

    9. AI Is Changing Work. Are Your Workplace Systems Ready?

    How will AI change the future of work, leadership, workplace culture, and the human skills employees need to succeed? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with industrial-organizational psychologist James Meaden for a fascinating conversation about artificial intelligence, human performance, workplace design, leadership development, psychological safety, employee feedback, trust, judgment, and the skills organizations will need in an AI-powered workplace. As AI increasingly handles technical and knowledge-based tasks, organizations are placing greater value on uniquely human capabilities like judgment, critical thinking, communication, relationship building, presence, creativity, and trust. But James argues there’s a major problem: companies cannot simply tell employees to “do the human stuff” and expect those skills to appear. Human skills require practice, feedback, experience, and environments designed to develop them.  Betsy and James explore why modern workplaces often work against human presence, how standardized education and traditional management systems shaped today’s workforce, and why younger employees may be entering organizations without enough experience receiving meaningful feedback or practicing interpersonal skills. They also discuss the Human Intelligence Readiness Framework, psychological safety at work, experiential learning, AI and workforce development, leadership modeling, workplace incentives, organizational culture, and why judgment may become one of the most important skills in determining what humans should do versus what AI should do. You’ll learn: • Why AI is increasing the value of human skills • Why trust may become a premium in an AI-generated world • How workplace environments influence human performance • Why feedback is critical for developing employees • How leaders can create psychological safety • Why experience and repetition are essential for building human skills • How AI will require organizations to redesign work • Why judgment matters when deciding what belongs to humans versus AI • How workplace culture and incentives shape employee behavior • Why leadership modeling may be one of the fastest ways to change culture The future of work isn't simply humans versus artificial intelligence. It’s about intentionally designing organizations where humans and AI can each do what they do best. If you're a CEO, executive, HR leader, people leader, manager, organizational development professional, or anyone thinking about AI and the future of work, this conversation offers a new framework for understanding what human readiness actually requires. Human in the Room explores the human capabilities that technology cannot automate: presence, judgment, and trust. Chapters (00:00) – Why Human Skills Matter More in the Age of AI (03:47) – The Human Intelligence Readiness Framework (07:26) – Why Modern Life Makes Presence Harder (11:12) – Is the Next Generation Really Unprepared for Work? (15:08) – From “Learn to Code” to “Learn to Connect” (18:54) – How the Workplace Designed Judgment Out of Work (22:31) – Feedback, Trust & Developing the Next Generation (26:17) – Psychological Safety and the Conditions for Innovation (30:02) – What AI Adoption Is Missing About Human Skills (33:48) – Why Humans Need Practice, Reps & Feedback (37:13) – Can You Outperform a Bad Work Environment? (41:20) – Designing for Presence & What Leaders Can Change Now ----------------------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Connect with our Guest at: Website:  https://www.thealive.institute/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmeaden/ Get your Audit done today at: https://wkf.ms/43PoaDW Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  3. Sep 11

    8. How a CEO Builds Trust at Scale | Chuck Shaffer, Seacoast Bank

    What does it actually take to build trust at scale? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Chuck Shaffer, Chairman and CEO of Seacoast Bank, to explore how people-first leadership helped build one of Florida’s most successful banking institutions. With more than $22 billion in assets, Seacoast operates in an industry where products and technology can look remarkably similar. Chuck explains why the real competitive advantage is still human: relationships, consistency, judgment, and trust. From leading through uncertainty and navigating acquisitions to recruiting exceptional talent and preparing for an AI-driven future, Chuck shares the principles that have guided his 30-year career at Seacoast. This conversation proves that trust isn’t soft. It’s a business strategy, and when you build it well, it shows up in the numbers. In this episode: How leaders build trust at scaleWhy company culture creates competitive advantageLeading through uncertainty and crisisChuck Shaffer’s leadership philosophySeacoast Bank’s “One Team” cultureWhy relationships matter in banking and businessThe human side of mergers and acquisitionsRecruiting and retaining exceptional talentLeadership lessons from the 2008 financial crisis and COVIDWhat Silicon Valley Bank teaches leaders about riskWhy consistency and reliability build customer loyaltyHow AI will change banking and customer serviceWhy human connection becomes more valuable as technology improvesThe relationship between trust and financial performanceWhy leaders must model the culture they expectHuman in the Room explores the human capabilities that technology cannot automate: presence, judgment, and trust. ----------------------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe WebsiteLearn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast  Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/  Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessments Get your Audit done today at: https://wkf.ms/43PoaDW Topics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  ----------------------------------- Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  4. Aug 21

    7. From Rapper to IP Attorney: The Truth About Protecting Your Ideas

    How do you protect your personal brand before someone else profits from it? In today's creator economy, your personal brand, intellectual property, trademarks, copyrights, and online reputation have become some of your most valuable business assets. In this episode of Human in the Room, leadership expert Betsy Gardner welcomes intellectual property attorney Kimra Major-Morris for an eye-opening conversation about protecting your business, your ideas, and your credibility in an AI-driven world. Whether you're an entrepreneur, author, executive, speaker, coach, content creator, or startup founder, understanding trademark law, copyright protection, brand strategy, intellectual property rights, AI-generated content, and business identity has never been more important. This conversation brings the Presence pillar of Human in the Room to life: how you show up, what you become known for, and the credibility you build are valuable assets—and they deserve to be intentionally defined and protected.  Kimra explains: How trademarks actually workTrademark vs copyright explainedWhy personal branding needs legal protectionThe biggest IP mistakes entrepreneurs makeHow AI is changing copyright ownershipWhen you actually need a trademark attorneyWhy credibility is becoming more valuable than competenceHow to protect your business before launching your next ideaThis conversation goes beyond legal advice. It's about building a brand that lasts, creating trust that compounds over time, and protecting the work you've invested years creating. If you're serious about personal branding, entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, AI, intellectual property, trademarks, copyright, branding strategy, or protecting your business, this episode is for you. ----------------------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the RoomInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy GardnerWebsite: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Connect with our Guest at:Website: https://majormorrislaw.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimraesq/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  CreditsHosted by Betsy GardnerProduced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  5. Aug 7

    6. The Future of Creativity Is More Human Than Ever

    Can AI replace human creativity? Or is authentic human connection becoming more valuable than ever? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with award-winning advertising executive, copywriter, and creative director Geoff Rogers for a fascinating conversation about creativity, branding, storytelling, trust, leadership, and the future of communication in the age of artificial intelligence. Geoff has spent decades helping iconic brands—including Nike and campaigns featuring Tiger Woods and Lionel Messi—craft messaging that cuts through noise and creates lasting emotional connection. In this conversation, he explains why AI may be able to generate words, but it still struggles to create what truly matters: presence, perspective, authenticity, and trust. Together they explore why consumers increasingly trust people over brands, how the best advertising creates "stopping power," why imperfections often make creative work stronger, and how every professional—not just marketers—must learn to communicate with greater humanity in an AI-powered world. If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, marketer, creator, executive, or simply trying to remain relevant in a rapidly changing workplace, this conversation offers practical insights into how human connection remains the most valuable skill of all. Time Stamps: (00:00) Introduction (02:18) How Storytelling Shapes Great Communicators (05:42) Why Authentic Stories Build Trust (09:15) The "Thingness" That AI Can't Replicate (12:48) Why Brands Struggle to Earn Trust Today (16:34) The Secret Behind Great Copywriting & "Stopping Power" (20:11) Tiger Woods, Nike & the Art of Saying More with Less (24:07) Why Your Perspective Is Your Greatest Competitive Advantage (28:10) AI, Creativity & The Cost of Endless Efficiency (32:05) How Great Ideas Are Actually Created (36:08) Why Human Presence Is Becoming a Superpower (39:22) Final Advice: Make Yourself Unforgettable ----------------------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Connect with our guest Geoff at: Website: https://geoffrogers.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-rogers-6861997/ Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  6. Jul 24

    5. CEO Reacts to LinkedIn Cringe (What Actually Builds Credibility)

    Why do so many LinkedIn messages get ignored? If you've ever wondered why your networking messages, sales outreach, or cold DMs aren't getting responses, this episode explains exactly why. In this Trust Lab episode of Human in the Room, executive leadership expert Betsy Gardner and co-host Addison Cursey analyze real LinkedIn messages sent to Betsy and explain the hidden communication mistakes that instantly reduce trust. Rather than simply saying "don't do this," they break down each example through the Human in the Room Framework:  Presence, Judgment, Trust. You'll learn why personalization matters more than automation, why AI can't replace human curiosity, and how executives evaluate your communication long before they ever reply. Whether you're in sales, business development, recruiting, leadership, marketing, entrepreneurship, or building your personal brand, these communication lessons apply far beyond LinkedIn. Topics Covered: • LinkedIn networking mistakes • Cold outreach best practices • AI-generated messaging • Business development • Executive communication • Building trust online • Personal branding • Sales psychology • Professional networking • Digital presence • Leadership communication • Human-centered marketing If you're looking to improve your professional communication, increase reply rates, build stronger relationships, and become someone people genuinely want to work with, this episode is for you. Time Stamps: (00:00) Why Most LinkedIn Messages Get Ignored (02:18) The Human in the Room Framework (05:01) LinkedIn Example #1: Selling Without Research (08:27) Why Personalization Builds Trust (11:34) AI Outreach Gone Wrong (14:42) How to Actually Add Value First (17:28) The Problem with Generic Sales Messages (20:36) Keyword Stuffing & Marketing Mistakes (23:18) Why Context Matters in Communication (26:07) Better Ways to Build Professional Relationships (29:18) Small Details That Earn Trust (31:54) Final Takeaways: Be the Human in the Room ----------------------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  7. Jul 10

    4. How Great Leaders Make Better Decisions | Judgment, Trust & Leadership with Katie Yeutter

    How do great leaders make better decisions when there isn't a perfect answer? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Katie Yeutter, Managing Director of the Rick Goings Institute for Leadership Excellence at Rollins College, to explore leadership decision-making, judgment, trust, resilience, and the human skills leaders need to thrive in today's rapidly changing workplace. The Rick Goings Institute was established through the generosity of former Tupperware CEO Rick Goings to prepare principled leaders who can navigate complexity with confidence, character, and sound judgment. Before joining Rollins College, Katie was the COO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, where she advanced statewide leadership initiatives and worked alongside executives, business leaders, and policymakers to strengthen Florida's future workforce. Katie is also a seven-time Ironman finisher and English Channel swimmer. Her experience pushing through uncertainty, setbacks, and high-pressure environments has shaped the same leadership principles she now teaches to executives, organizations, and emerging leaders. In this conversation, you'll learn: How great leaders make difficult decisions with incomplete informationWhy judgment may be the most important leadership skillHow trust is built before results are visibleWhat resilience really looks like under pressureHow self-awareness and situational awareness improve leadershipKnowing when to persevere and when to change courseWhy traditional leadership training often falls shortHow the Rick Goings Institute is developing the next generation of leadersWhy human-centered leadership is becoming a competitive advantage in the age of AIWhether you're an executive, entrepreneur, HR leader, manager, business owner, or emerging leader, this conversation offers practical leadership insights you can apply immediately. Time Stamps: (00:00) Why Leadership Begins With Better Decisions (03:14) The Midwest Farm Girl Behind Katie Uter’s Drive (06:42) What the English Channel Teaches About Pressure (10:18) Building Trust Before the Vision Exists (13:42) How Leaders Earn a Seat at the Table (17:08) Why Trust in Yourself Changes Everything (20:35) The Leadership Skill of Judgment Under Pressure (24:06) Knowing When to Keep Going vs. When to Quit (27:41) Can Leadership Judgment Actually Be Taught? (31:04) Why Case Studies Aren’t Enough for Modern Leaders (34:12) How Great Leaders Create the Conditions for Others to Thrive (38:02) The One Leadership Rep Katie Uter Never Skips Connect with Katie Yeutter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieyeutter/  The Rick Goings Institute Website: https://rgi.rollins.edu/ Rollins College: https://www.rollins.edu/ Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.comFollow Human in the RoomInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy GardnerWebsite: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  8. Jun 26

    3. The Trust Gap Between Employers and Young Professionals

    Why does work feel broken? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner and Addison Kersey dive into the biggest workplace challenges facing employees, managers, and business leaders today. From workplace trust and leadership development to AI in the workplace, employee engagement, company culture, and generational differences, this conversation explores why so many organizations struggle to attract, retain, and develop great talent. Betsy brings the perspective of a seasoned CEO and executive leader, while Addison offers the perspective of a rising professional navigating the realities of modern work. Together, they break down the growing trust gap between employees and employers, discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping careers, and explain why the future belongs to people who can build credibility, judgment, and human connection. Whether you're a CEO, manager, entrepreneur, HR professional, young professional, or emerging leader, this episode offers practical insights into leadership, communication, career growth, workplace culture, employee retention, professional development, and the future of work. Topics Covered: Workplace trustLeadership developmentAI and the future of workEmployee engagementCareer growth strategiesProfessional developmentGenerational differences in the workplaceCompany cultureCommunication skillsBuilding credibility at workSubscribe for more conversations on leadership, trust, communication, workplace culture, and thriving in the credibility economy.   Time Stamps: (00:00) Why Work Feels Broken Today (02:45) The Conversations That Sparked Human in the Room (05:28) What "Managing Up" Really Means (08:02) Why Young Workers Struggle to Trust Employers (10:55) The Impact of AI, Layoffs, and Career Uncertainty (13:42) Building Trust Through Leadership and Mentorship (16:18) Generational Differences and Workplace Expectations (19:04) The Lost Workplace Playbook (21:48) Why Clear Career Paths Matter More Than Ever (24:15) AI, Career Development, and the Skills Gap (27:02) The Human in the Room Framework for Success (30:10) Moving From the Competency Economy to the Credibility Economy Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the RoomInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy GardnerWebsite: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  Credits: Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  9. Jun 12

    2. What Every College Graduate Needs to Hear Right Now

    Is Gen Z really unprepared for the workforce—or are we missing the bigger picture? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Annie Sallick, a senior at Rollins College, collegiate tennis player, and emerging leader, to discuss what it's really like to be graduating into an economy shaped by artificial intelligence, uncertainty, and changing workplace expectations. From fears about AI replacing jobs to concerns about receiving feedback, resilience, workplace culture, and career development, Annie offers a candid look at the challenges facing her generation—and why she remains optimistic about the future. Joined by Addison Cursey, the conversation explores why employers continue to value critical thinking, communication skills, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and relationship-building over technical skills alone. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why Gen Z feels anxious about entering the workforce -The impact of AI on young professionals -What employers are actually looking for in new hires -Why resilience is the ultimate career advantage -How college athletics prepares students for leadership -The importance of receiving feedback and failing well -Why relationships still matter in a digital world -How to stand out in an AI-driven economy -What human skills will never be automated Whether you're a college student, recent graduate, parent, manager, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode offers practical insights on navigating uncertainty and building a meaningful career in the future of work. Time Stamps: 00:00 Why Gen Z Isn't the Problem 03:12 Annie's Biggest Fear About the Future 06:41 What Does "Be Yourself at Work" Actually Mean? 09:58 The Stereotypes Facing Gen Z 13:20 How Tennis Built Resilience and Confidence 16:55 What Employers Really Want 20:15 AI, Critical Thinking & Human Skills 23:58 Why Young People Are Anxious About Work 27:35 The Truth About Feedback and Growth 31:08 What Older Generations Need to Understand 35:12 Relationships, Resilience & Career Success 38:15 The Human Skills AI Can't Replace ----------------------------------- Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribeWebsite Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  ----------------------------------- Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  10. May 29

    1. Why Work Feels Broken Right Now

    Why does work feel broken right now? Why are recent graduates losing faith in AI, leadership, and the future of work altogether? In this powerful episode of Human in the Room, Betsy explores the growing backlash against AI, the collapse of workplace mentorship, and the rising anxiety surrounding career development, remote work culture, and leadership in a post-pandemic world. As headlines continue to warn about AI replacing jobs, younger generations are entering the workforce feeling uncertain, disconnected, and overwhelmed. Meanwhile, senior leaders are struggling to adapt to rapidly shifting expectations around communication, professionalism, authenticity, trust, and workplace culture. This episode dives deep into: Why AI is triggering fear and mistrust among young professionalsThe disappearance of entry-level apprenticeship opportunitiesHow remote work disrupted mentorship and workplace cultureWhy soft skills matter more than everThe leadership gap emerging between generationsWhat “good judgment” actually looks like in the workplaceHow to build trust, presence, and credibility in your careerWhy mentorship must become intentional in today’s worldThe hidden loneliness behind modern work cultureHow young professionals can stand out in an AI-driven workforceBetsy also shares practical advice for graduates and early-career professionals on managing up, building trust with leadership, creating mentorship opportunities, and developing the human skills AI cannot replace. If you care about leadership development, workplace culture, career growth, emotional intelligence, communication skills, or the future of work, this episode is essential listening. ----------------------- Stay in the Room Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Newsletter Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe Website Learn more at humanintheroombook.com Follow Human in the Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanintheroom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-in-the-room/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanintheRoomPodcast Follow Betsy Gardner Website: betsygardner.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsygardner22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebetsygardner/ Buy the Book Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt  Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through: Leadership development trainingKeynotes and speaking engagementsTeam workshops and assessmentsTopics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership. Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com  ----------------------- Credits Hosted by Betsy Gardner Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Human in the Room podcast is for people figuring out how work actually works. Hosted by Betsy Gardner, this podcast explores the conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics that shape modern careers. Each episode breaks down the human side of leadership development, career growth, workplace culture, people strategy, communication, and the future of work in the age of AI. Designed for emerging leaders, ambitious professionals, and anyone navigating intergenerational workplaces, Human in the Room offers practical insights on managing up, building trust, developing soft skills, leading with judgment, and growing your influence at work. Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, working in human resources, business development, or simply trying to become more effective at work, this podcast helps you build the credibility and human-centered leadership skills that matter most. Subscribe for more episodes on leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most. Learn more at humanintheroombook.com and betsygardner.com

Information

  • Creator
    Betsy Gardner
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Betsy Gardner
  • Show Website
    Human In The Room