• Julia Arpag on Building a LinkedIn Brand That Converts (Without Selling Your Soul)
    May 16 2026
    In this episode of the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show, Rhona Pierce takes over live from EVOLVE 2026 in Atlanta for a conversation with Julia Arpag, founder and CEO of Aligned Recruitment. After being laid off just five weeks postpartum, Julia built a seven-figure recruiting firm in under two years—largely fueled by founder-led marketing and storytelling on LinkedIn. In this episode, she shares how authenticity, consistency, and a clear sense of purpose helped her turn content into real revenue. Julia and Rhona dive into how recruiters and leaders can build visibility without feeling performative, why vanity metrics don’t matter, and how authentic storytelling can convert into meaningful business relationships. If you’ve ever struggled with showing up online, selling your services, or balancing authenticity with growth, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why revenue—not engagement—is the metric that actually matters - How Julia built a seven-figure recruiting firm in under two years - The difference between marketing on LinkedIn and selling on LinkedIn - Why storytelling is the most powerful sales tool recruiters have - How to build visibility online without feeling inauthentic - What to post about when you're just starting and don’t have many success stories yet - How founder-led marketing can drive real revenue - Why learning sales skills can transform your career or business Key Moments / Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the EVOLVE Talent & HR Show 02:48 – Julia’s journey: laid off postpartum to building a firm 05:52 – Why vanity metrics don’t matter 07:41 – Storytelling as a recruiting sales strategy 10:08 – Learning to sell as a first-time founder 12:19 – The mindset behind building a seven-figure business 15:01 – How to build an authentic LinkedIn brand 16:31 – Where to connect with Julia ArpagGuest Bio Julia Arpag is the founder and CEO of Aligned Recruitment, a values-driven recruiting firm specializing in tech talent. After being laid off five weeks postpartum in 2023, she launched the company and grew it to seven figures in under two years through founder-led marketing and authentic storytelling on LinkedIn. Julia is passionate about helping companies hire exceptional talent while empowering recruiters and founders to build businesses rooted in authenticity, values, and service. | Follow Us | Follow Julia Arpag Website | https://alignedrecruitment.com LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-arpag/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/foster_your_tribe/ Follow Rhona Pierce Website | https://www.rhonapierce.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonapierce Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/rhonabpierce/ Follow Anna Morgan Website | https://yourcareerbff.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=all Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/ Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist: https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2027 Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences? Book an EVOLVE partnership call: https://calendly.com/annamorgan/evolve-partnership If this episode resonated, subscribe, share it with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders discover the show.
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    18 mins
  • The Softer Side of Posner: Career Pivots, Podcasting, and the Power of Community
    May 15 2026
    In this episode of the EVOLVE Talent & HR Show, host Anna Morgan sits down with Adam Posner, founder of NHP Talent Group and host of the globally ranked podcast The POZcast. Adam shares the real story behind his career pivots, entrepreneurial journey, and how podcasting became a powerful flywheel for both brand and business. From building a recruiting firm to recording nearly 500 podcast episodes, Adam reflects on resilience, authenticity, and what it truly means to show up for your community. He also opens up about navigating a cancer diagnosis while continuing to build, create, and lead. This conversation is a candid look at the human side of leadership, career reinvention, and the role community plays when life throws unexpected challenges your way. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why authentic storytelling creates stronger professional communities The real reason most people start podcasts (and why it usually fails) How Adam built a recruiting business after losing his corporate role The difference between good recruiters and great recruiters in today’s job market How AI is changing recruiting—and why it won’t replace great recruiters What candidates can do today to stand out in a hyper-competitive job market How podcasting became a flywheel for Adam’s brand, recruiting firm, and partnerships The leadership lessons Adam learned while navigating cancer treatment Key Moments 00:00 – Introduction and Adam Posner’s career journey 04:10 – Losing his corporate job and pivoting into recruiting 08:30 – Starting NHP Talent Group and building an entrepreneurial path 12:00 – The realities of today’s hiring market 16:00 – AI in recruiting and what candidates get wrong 20:45 – Adam shares his cancer diagnosis and treatment journey 28:30 – The power of community during difficult seasons 33:00 – How podcasting became a flywheel for business and brand 37:30 – Podcasting mistakes most new hosts make 44:30 – Conference season, future plans, and closing reflections Adam Posner is the Founder and President of NHP Talent Group, a New York–based recruiting firm specializing in marketing, media, tech, and product roles. He is also the host of The POZcast, a globally ranked career podcast approaching 500 episodes where he explores the life and career journeys of leaders across industries. Through his work in recruiting, podcasting, and content creation, Adam has become a trusted voice in the HR, talent, and future of work ecosystem. | Follow Us | Follow Adam Posner Website | https://tr.ee/B5ujzSTP8s LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjposner Instagram | https://tr.ee/i8j9WcUQdJ Follow Anna Morgan Website | https://yourcareerbff.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=all Instagram | http://nstagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/following/ Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist: https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2027 Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences? Book an EVOLVE partnership call: https://calendly.com/annamorgan/evolve-partnership If this episode resonated, subscribe, share it with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders discover the show.
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    52 mins
  • Jennifer McClure on HR Influence, AI, and Why HR Should Lead Disruption
    May 14 2026
    In this episode of the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show, Rhona Pierce takes over live from EVOLVE 2026 in Atlanta for a powerful conversation with Jennifer McClure, keynote speaker, future of work strategist, and founder of DisruptHR. Together, they unpack why HR is uniquely positioned to lead transformation, how leaders can build influence that outlasts their title, and why personal brand starts with clarity—not self-promotion. Jennifer also shares a grounded perspective on AI, urging leaders to frame it as an empowerment tool rather than a threat. This episode is a must-listen for HR and talent leaders who want to lead boldly, communicate their value, and help shape more human-centered workplaces. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why HR is uniquely positioned to lead disruption and transformation - What it really means to become the “Chief Disruption Officer” in your organization -Why personal brand is really about being clear on what you want to be known for - How to build internal influence before focusing on external visibility - The role feedback, mentors, and sponsors play in career growth - How leaders should reframe AI as an enhancement tool—not just an efficiency tool - Why reskilling and internal mobility should be core to talent strategy - One practical way to build influence that lasts beyond your current role Key Moments / Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show 01:36 – Rhona Pierce introduces Jennifer McClure live at EVOLVE 2026 03:39 – Why HR should be the “Chief Disruption Officer” 05:27 – Why personal brand is really about clarity and self-advocacy 09:49 – How to tell the difference between bias and lack of visibility 14:13 – The AI conversation leaders should be having 16:19 – AI, reskilling, and the future of talent strategy 18:40 – How to build influence that outlasts your current role 21:22 – Where to connect with Jennifer McClure Jennifer McClure is a globally recognized keynote speaker, future of work strategist, and founder of DisruptHR, a movement active in more than 30 countries. After spending the first 20 years of her career in HR and executive search, she launched Unbridled Talent in 2010, where she speaks on high-impact leadership, strategic HR, and personal branding. Jennifer is also the self-appointed Chief Excitement Officer of DisruptHR, where she helps amplify bold ideas and fresh voices across the HR community. | Follow Us | Follow Jennifer McClure Website | https://jennifermcclure.net LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclure Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_mcclure/ Follow Rhona Pierce Website | https://www.rhonapierce.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonapierce Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/rhonabpierce/ Follow Anna Morgan Website | https://yourcareerbff.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=all Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/ Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist: https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2027 Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences? Book an EVOLVE partnership call: https://calendly.com/annamorgan/evolve-partnership If this episode resonated, subscribe, share it with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders discover the show.
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    24 mins
  • Adam Marx on Relationship Building in the Age of AI
    May 13 2026
    In this episode of the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show, Rhona Pierce sits down with Adam Marx live from EVOLVE 2026 in Atlanta to explore what networking really means in an era dominated by automation, AI outreach, and growth hacks. Adam brings a refreshing perspective: real relationships still win. Drawing from his background in music, journalism, and startups, Adam explains why patience, consistency, and meaningful follow-up matter more than viral posts or follower counts. If you're building a network, growing a business, or navigating modern relationship-building in a digital world, this conversation will challenge how you think about scale, authenticity, and connection. Why follow-up is more valuable than a first introduction The biggest misconception about “scaling” your network Why follower counts and viral posts rarely translate into meaningful business How patience and consistency strengthen professional relationships The role of AI in networking—and where human connection still wins Why diverse networks across industries create unexpected opportunities How gratitude and curiosity can unlock opportunities you didn’t anticipate One simple message you can send today to revive a dormant relationship 00:00 – Welcome to the EVOLVE Talent & HR Show02:36 – Adam’s journey from music to startups05:19 – The real meaning of networking at scale09:01 – Why relationships require patience and follow-up12:41 – Can relationships actually scale?14:01 – How a relationship led to SXSW16:23 – A simple way to reconnect with your network18:38 – Where to connect with Adam Marx Adam Marx is a relationship strategist, startup advisor, and speaker focused on helping entrepreneurs and professionals build meaningful networks that last. With a background in the music industry and tech journalism, Adam brings a unique perspective on how authentic relationships drive long-term business success. He has spoken at South by Southwest (SXSW), Emory University, and startup communities across the country, advocating for patience, gratitude, and human connection in an increasingly automated world. | Follow Us | Follow Adam Marx Website | https://www.zerotoonenetworker.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammarx13/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/adammarx13/ Follow Rhona PierceWebsite | https://www.rhonapierce.com/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonapierceInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/rhonabpierce/ Follow Anna MorganWebsite | https://yourcareerbff.com/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=allInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist:https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences?Book an EVOLVE partnership call:https://calendly.com/annamorgan/evolve-partnership If this episode resonated, subscribe, share it with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders discover the show.
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    21 mins
  • Influence Instead of Convince: Leadership and the Future of Work
    May 12 2026
    What if the most important leadership skill in today’s workplace isn’t having the perfect answer—but knowing how to influence with clarity, humanity, and conviction? In this episode, Anna Morgan sits down with Kat Kibben (founder of Three Ears Media, two-time author) for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, resilience, community, and what it means to stay human as work evolves. From the hidden mechanics behind broken job postings to the deeper mindset shifts leaders need right now, Kat shares frameworks and real talk on why “good enough” systems produce generic outcomes—and why connection is the most reliable form of career stability. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “influence instead of convince” looks like in leadership, recruiting, and consulting Why “good enough” hiring systems create generic results—and how leaders raise the bar How to define roles beyond “years of experience” using autonomy, aptitude, peopling, and communication Why job descriptions shouldn’t be a legal CYA—and how job postings should actually function How experimentation builds resilience (and why teams hide AI usage at work) Why quitting is a valuable skill—and how “pruning” protects your energy and growth How community and networking become career insurance in uncertain markets What event organizers get wrong about education, equity, and speaker experience Key moments / timestamps00:00 Anna introduces Kat Kibben + the “more human” mission02:50 The real issues teams bring to Kat (and what’s underneath)03:53 “Influence instead of convince.”06:18 The “good enough” culture problem09:11 Skills-based hiring: why words aren’t universal10:08 A better role framework: autonomy, aptitude, peopling, communication14:21 Why job posting work is actually process + culture work23:18 Why people hide AI usage—and how leaders normalize experimentation25:11 Resilience as the outcome of safe experimentation26:17 Kat’s new book + navigating uncertainty as a life strategy32:19 Functional leadership: model the behaviors you want mirrored35:11 Knowing when to quit (and why it matters)49:50 Speaker + event insights: reduce friction, increase clarity54:07 Networking is caring about others in disguise01:00:22 Speaker compensation: minimums, equity, and value exchange01:04:20 Why continuing education gets deprioritized—and the cost Kat Kibben is the founder of Three Ears Media and a recruitment consultant and writer who helps organizations transform how they hire by improving role clarity, job storytelling, and the systems behind recruiting. She’s a two-time author, a sought-after speaker, and known for blending practical talent strategy with deeply human leadership and resilience insights. |Follow Us| Follow Kat KibbenWebsite | https://threeearsmedia.com/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinakibben/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/KatrinaKibben Follow Anna MorganWebsite | https://yourcareerbff.com/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=allInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/?hl=enFacebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist:https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2027 Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences?Book an EVOLVE partnership call:https://calendly.com/anna-morgan-careerbff/evolve-by-careerbff?back=1 If this resonates, subscribe, share with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders find the show.
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    57 mins
  • Welcome to The EVOLVE Talent & HR Show: Why We’re Evolving
    May 11 2026
    This isn’t just a rebrand. It’s a reflection of what’s happening across our community — and across the future of work. In this welcome episode of The EVOLVE Talent & HR Show, we share the why behind the evolution, reflect on the energy and insight coming out of EVOLVE 26, and outline how the podcast, conference, and broader ecosystem now connect in a more intentional way. This show is for executive-level Talent and HR leaders shaping culture, leadership, and organizational strategy — together. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why EVOLVE is expanding beyond a podcast into a full ecosystem of experiencesWhat shifted at EVOLVE 26 — and what it revealed about the future of Talent and HRHow emotionally intelligent leadership is becoming a strategic differentiatorWhy community-driven learning outperforms isolated expertiseWhat to expect from future episodes and conversationsHow partnership, sponsorship, and co-creation fit into the EVOLVE visionThe type of leaders and organizations this show is built to serve Chapters00:00 The Birth of Your Career BFF Podcast02:59 Evolve Conference: A Personal Experiment05:49 Transitioning to Evolve Talent and HR Show09:14 Building Community in HR and Talent Acquisition Follow Us:Website | Anna MorganLinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=allInstagram | Anna Morgan | Careerbff® (@annamorgancareerbff) • Instagram profileFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the Evolve Shine 2027 waitlist: EVOLVE 2027 — Anna Morgan To collaborate or explore sponsorship and custom EVOLVE experiences, book an EVOLVE partnership call: Partnership Call with Anna Morgan (Evolve 26/27) - Anna Morgan If this episode resonates, subscribe, share with a fellow Talent or HR leader, and leave a review to help more forward-thinking leaders find the show.
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    14 mins
  • Wild Connections at RecFest: On Stage with Career BFF
    Dec 18 2025
    The conversation at Wild Connections Night at the Zoo explores the concept of a 'Career BFF'—a supportive figure in one's professional life who encourages growth, honesty, and collaboration. Various guests share insights on workplace dynamics, hiring red flags, and the importance of networking. The discussion emphasizes the need for radical honesty in career development and the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, particularly in the context of AI. The event fosters a sense of community among professionals, highlighting the value of mentorship and authentic connections in navigating the job market. Collaboration over competition is essential in the industry. A Career BFF is someone who challenges you to grow. Workplace egos can lead to significant issues. Employers are currently more selective in hiring. Paying it forward is a key aspect of being a Career BFF. Radical honesty is crucial for self-awareness and growth. The job market continues to face longstanding challenges. Building a community of support is vital for success. Understanding your work style can enhance productivity. Career BFFs play a crucial role in navigating professional challenges. 00:00 Welcome to Wild Connections Night at the Zoo 02:33 The Role of a Career BFF 04:30 Corporate Red Flags in Hiring 06:23 Work Style and Zoo Animals 08:09 Networking and Building Connections 10:27 Hiring Red Flags and Corporate Culture 12:37 The Importance of Radical Honesty 15:06 The Evolution of Talent and AI 18:52 Building a Community of Career BFFs 21:54 Navigating the Job Market 24:12 Finding Your Work Style 26:07 Future Projects and Opportunities 28:01 Career BFF: A Movement for Support 30:20 Wrap Up and Reflections Follow us:Laura Washington | Humanly Larry Anderson Clark Willcox | Digital Recruiter Kirsten Guthrie | Evolve Workforce Partners Virgina Tirado Don’t Miss: EVOLVE TA & HR Experience 2026Thursday January 29th, 2026 | Atlanta, GA |Get your ticket NOW! EVOLVE — Anna Morganhttps://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2026-waitlist Elevate your brand with the Evolve Event - book a partnership call: https://calendly.com/anna-morgan-careerbff/evolve-by-careerbff Be a Career BFF!If this episode inspired you, please SUBSCRIBE to the YouTube channel and leave a review — it helps more professionals find their BFF in career growth!https://www.youtube.com/@annamorganyourcareerbff Stay connected with Anna Morgan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamorgan-recruiter-careerbff/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@annamorganyourcareerbffWebsite: https://yourcareerbff.com/
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    29 mins
  • The Diesel Tech Whisperer: Emily Brooks' Journey in Talent Acquisition
    Nov 20 2025
    Navigating Talent Acquisition with Emily Brooks In this episode of the Your Career BFF Podcast, host Anna Morgan chats with Emily Brooks, talent acquisition manager at Mid-Atlantic Truck and Equipment, about the unique challenges and opportunities in recruiting for the heavy equipment and vocational vehicle industry. Emily shares her journey from hospitality to recruiting and discusses the high demand for diesel technicians, the impact of industry skill gaps, and the importance of relationship building in talent acquisition. The conversation also touches on hiring strategies, including the value of trade jobs and programs to upskill employees, as well as navigating recruitment in a tech-focused world. Emily and Anna also delve into the significance of transparency, understanding personal stories, and fostering a supportive work environment for all employees. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:27 Emily Brooks' Career Journey 03:59 Challenges in Diesel Technician Recruitment 06:11 Investing in Trade Skills and Training 13:20 Navigating Background Checks and Building Trust 19:07 Creative Ways to Improve Recruiting 19:24 The Importance of Employer Branding 20:13 Implementing New Recruiting Systems 20:37 Building a Talent Community 21:23 Ease of Use in Recruiting 22:34 Transitioning from Hospitality to Recruiting 24:07 The Value of Transferable Skills 26:20 The Role of Recruiters in Building Relationships 28:03 Current Recruiting Needs and Roles 29:01 Encouragement for Job Seekers 33:05 The Human Element in Recruiting 37:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow Emily Brook | ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Don’t Miss: EVOLVE TA & HR Experience 2026 Thursday January 29th, 2026 | Atlanta, GA | ⁠Get your ticket NOW! EVOLVE — Anna Morgan⁠ Elevate your brand with the Evolve Event - ⁠book a partnership call⁠. Be a Career BFF! If this episode inspired you, please ⁠SUBSCRIBE to the YouTube channel⁠ and leave a review — it helps more professionals find their BFF in career growth! Stay connected with Anna Morgan: ⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Instagram | ⁠⁠YouTube⁠ | ⁠Website⁠
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    47 mins