IN THIS EPISODE...

Sarah Fortier is the CEO of Outwitly Inc. She shares her journey from industrial design to founding Outwitly in 2016, initially as a consulting firm and later focusing on staffing. Fortier emphasizes the importance of proactive contractors, effective onboarding, and maintaining a supportive community through Slack and coaching. She stresses the importance of stakeholder savvy in managing client relationships and the adaptability of blended workforces in response to industry shifts.

Outwitly, Inc. is an eight-figure UX and service design staffing agency. They specialize in helping clients build high-impact teams by placing UX and service designers on long-term contracts.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Sara”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
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ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. Sara’s journey from UX design to building a successful staffing agency.

2. Qualities and mindsets that make external talent thrive in blended workforces.

3. Strategies for helping contractors feel connected and supported, even when remote.

4. Balancing business profitability with contractor well-being and client satisfaction.

5. Tips for effective onboarding and integration of external talent.

6. Advice for organizations considering blended workforces for the first time.

7. What soft skills are most important for success as a contractor?

8. How can companies foster a sense of community among external team members?

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[2:20] How Sara balances family life and a demanding career

[3:40] Sara’s transition from industrial design to launching a staffing agency.

[6:07] Outwitly’s approach to partnering with organizations to build high-impact teams.

[7:33] Advantages of using contractors for flexibility and business...

IN THIS EPISODE...

Brendan Noud, CEO and co-founder of LearnUpon, discusses the evolution of his learning management system (LMS) company. LearnUpon, which was founded by two individuals in 2012, and now employs over 300 people worldwide. Brendan highlights the importance of AI in enhancing administrative tasks and learner engagement. He also emphasizes the importance of businesses understanding their training goals and selecting LMSs that align with their specific needs.

LearnUpon prioritizes ease of use and learner experience, catering to diverse audiences, including employees, customers, and partners. LearnUpon's success is attributed to its customer-centric approach, 24/7 support, and strategic partnerships.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Brendan”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. Brendan’s path from consulting to founding LearnUpon.

2. Early challenges and the global growth of LearnUpon.

3. What makes LearnUpon’s learning management system (LMS) stand out?

4. How AI is used to enhance the platform.

5. Focus on customer partnership and 24/7 support.

6. Brendan’s tips for choosing an LMS.

7. How does LearnUpon handle customer feature requests?

8. What trends or risks does Brendan see in the LMS industry?

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[00:36] Brendan shares his background.

[01:14] Founding LearnUpon and its global growth.

[06:45] Description of an LMS and LearnUpon’s unique features.

[09:02] LearnUpon’s customer partnership approach.

[11:19] Integrating AI into the platform.

[14:04] Challenges of building a US customer base.

[20:06] Signature Segment: Brendan’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Advice for companies choosing an LMS.

[22:45] Industry trends and risks.

[25:16] Balancing customer...

IN THIS EPISODE...

Laura Azzarella, co-founder of Applied Potential Solutions, shares her journey from media production to HR, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology, particularly AI, to automate administrative tasks and optimize HR processes. She highlights the need for proper onboarding and communication with vendors to ensure successful integrations. Laura also stresses the importance of HR leaders being AI-savvy and not being afraid to experiment with technology.

Applied Potential Solutions is a tech-forward HR consultancy that helps businesses optimize talent strategies through strategic technology integration. Led by Laura Azzarella, the firm specializes in implementing HR systems, leveraging AI and technology to automate administrative tasks, and helping organizations develop more efficient HR practices. Their services range from process improvement to comprehensive HR technology solutions.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Laura”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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· How did Laura's diverse career path lead her to founding Applied Potential Solutions?

· What technology strategies can HR teams use to become more strategic and efficient?

· How is AI changing the landscape of HR processes and talent management?

· What challenges do organizations face when integrating external talent or consultants?

· Why is "courageous agility" important in navigating technological and workplace changes?

· How can companies better support their HR leaders in adopting new technologies?

· What are the limitations of AI in HR, and how should professionals approach its implementation?

· How can external consultants more effectively integrate into an organization's...

IN THIS EPISODE...

Meet Sarah Smart, the co-founder of HorizonHuman. Sarah leads initiatives in HR transformation and AI-driven talent strategies.

In this conversation, she discusses how emerging technologies and evolving business needs reshape HR. Sarah emphasizes the critical role of AI literacy, user-centered design, and strategic decision-making in successful HR tech adoption. Furthermore, she explores common implementation pitfalls, such as overlooking user experience, and highlights the value of a design thinking approach. Looking ahead, Sarah foresees a rise in tech-savvy CHROs, agentic AI, and blended workforces.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Sarah”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. What challenges do HR teams face when adopting new technologies?

2. How can AI help improve HR processes?

3. What is the importance of user experience in HR tech implementation?

4. Why should companies define KPIs before using new technology?

5. What are some common mistakes in HR tech implementation?

6. Why is strategic decision-making critical in leadership?

7. How can leaders learn from their mistakes?

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[03:44] Sarah's Professional Journey and Co-Founding Horizon Human

[07:08] Horizon Human's Approach to HR Transformation

[14:05] Challenges and Best Practices in HR Tech Implementation

[18:59] Signature Segment: Sarah's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Future Trends in HR Transformation

[25:05] Signature Segment: Sarah's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Strategic Decision Making

[27:33] Contact Information

IN THIS EPISODE...

Rich Lee, CEO and Founder of New Era ADR, discusses how his company is transforming the resolution of legal disputes. New Era ADR offers fast, online arbitration that takes only 100 days and can save up to 90% in time and cost.

Rich explains that the platform is fair, easy to use, and doesn't need major tech changes. He shares how companies can incorporate it into contracts and how it helps solve problems quickly while maintaining strong relationships. Rich also discusses common misconceptions about arbitration and how New Era ADR streamlines and enhances the effectiveness of legal processes.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Rich”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. What is the main benefit of New Era ADR's 100-day process?

2. How does New Era ADR help people stay on good terms after a dispute?

3. What wrong ideas do people have about arbitration at work?

4. How does New Era ADR make the process fair and easy for everyone?

5. What problems with standard legal systems does New Era ADR fix?

6. How does New Era ADR help lower risk for companies?

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[02:53] Life Outside of Work

[05:36] Rich's Career Journey

[10:37] Signature Segment: Rich's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: New Era ADR's Unique Approach

[16:10] Implementation and Adoption of New Era ADR

[20:31] Challenges and Opportunities in Legal Dispute Resolution

[28:15] Signature Segment: Rich's LATTOYG Tactics of Choice: Leading with Intrapreneurship and Courageous Agility

IN THIS EPISODE...

Dr. Lakila Bowden, Chief Operating Officer of iSee Technologies, shares her insights on transforming workplace culture through inclusive leadership and practical experience. She explores the challenges and opportunities in blended workforces, emphasizing collaboration among traditional employees, contractors, and technology.

Dr. Lakila highlights the value of inclusive leadership, workforce wellness, and celebrated performance advocacy. She also introduces her upcoming book, focused on self-care and empowerment for high-achieving women.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Lakila”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. What is a blended workforce?

2. Why is it essential to eliminate silos in blended teams?

3. How can inclusive leadership improve workforce wellness?

4. What is celebrated performance advocacy?

5. Who are the ideal clients for iSeeTechnologies?

6. Why is executive leadership support essential for training programs?

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[02:22] Dr. Lakila's Personal Life

[04:16] Founding iSee Technologies and Expanding into Leadership Development

[12:11] Challenges and Opportunities in Blended Workforces

[18:58] Dr. Lakila's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Inclusive Leadership and Workforce Wellness

[22:03] Ideal Client Profile and Upcoming Book

[26:26] Dr. Lakila's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Executive Presence

[28:13] Contact Information

IN THIS EPISODE...

Geoffrey Toffetti, CEO of Frontline Performance Group (FPG), shares insights into the company's strategic evolution and leadership philosophy. He discusses FPG's shift to a SaaS model, driven by efficiency goals, COVID-19's impact, and the need for scalability.

Geoffrey outlines the benefits and challenges of blended workforces, underscores the importance of transparent vendor relationships, and shares a case study on IBM's Fragmented Work Program, highlighting FPG's role in contractor management. Geoffrey also emphasizes leading with intrapreneurship, advocating for innovation, adaptability, and problem-solving to drive growth in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Geoffrey”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. Why did Frontline Performance Group shift to a SaaS model?

2. What are the advantages of a blended workforce?

3. What challenges come with managing external resources?

4. What was IBM's Fragmented Work Program about?

5. How did Frontline Performance Group contribute to IBM's program?

6. How can vendors avoid vendor fatigue and build strong relationships?

7. Why leading with intrapreneurship is valuable.

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[03:11] Personal Background

[05:28] Career Journey

[08:49] The Evolution of Frontline Performance Group's Business Model

[12:02] Signature Segment: Geoffrey's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Benefits and Challenges of Blended Workforces

[19:07] Case Study: IBM's Fragmented Work Program

[22:43] Addressing Vendor Fatigue and Building Strong Vendor Relationships

[26:45] Signature Segment: Geoffrey's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Intrapreneurship

[29:22] Contact Information

IN THIS EPISODE...

Pranav Dalal, CEO and Founder of Office Beacon, explores topics such as leveraging global talent, offshoring benefits, post-COVID workforce strategies, and the importance of corporate culture. Pranav offers insights on scaling businesses and managing global challenges within Office Beacon. His vision emphasizes cost-effective staffing, operational efficiency, and building a resilient, growth-oriented organization.

Pranav shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, recounting starting his career in Toronto and launching Office Beacon in 2001. The company has grown into a global staffing agency with operations in India, the Philippines, Mexico, and South Africa.

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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Pranav”)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to http://RateThisPodcast.com/blended Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Be sure to:

• Check out our website at http://BlendedWorkforcesAtWork
• Follow Karan on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
• Follow SDL on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram

ABOUT SHOCKINGLY DIFFERENT LEADERSHIP (SDL):

This podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the go-to firm companies trust when needing to supplement their in-house HR teams with contract or interim HR, Learning, and Culture experts to assist with business-critical People initiatives during peak periods of work. Visit https://shockinglydifferent.com to learn more.

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1. What are the main benefits of using global staffing services?

2. How can companies ensure a smooth onboarding process for remote teams?

3. What challenges do businesses face in global staffing?

4. Why is a strong corporate culture important in remote staffing agencies?

5. What should companies consider before partnering with a global staffing firm?

6. How can businesses maintain continuity when operating across multiple countries?

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[02:25] Pranav's Personal Background

[03:50] Pranav's Career Journey and Founding Office Beacon

[09:26] Evolution of Office Beacon and Industry Expansion

[14:15] Onboarding and Corporate Culture

[20:58] Challenges and Obstacles in Global Staffing

[22:17] Signature Segment: Pranav's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Preparing for Global Talent and Scaling Businesses

[25:24] Signature Segment: Pranav's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Intrapreneurship

[26:45] Contact Information