The Josh Bersin Company

Delve into the critical role of the frontline workforce, which employs over 70% of US workers and contributes significantly to the economy. Discover the challenges they face, including pay disparities and scheduling needs. Learn how UKG is innovating with tools like predictive labor planning and AI agents to enhance workforce management. Explore their integrated platform that connects HR and payroll, and see how technology is evolving to improve these essential roles while addressing the unique demands of the frontline.

As AI rapidly reshapes our world, understanding how to stay relevant is vital. Professionals are urged to retain deep domain expertise while embracing a curious mindset for ongoing learning. It's not just about chasing trends, but about mastering specific areas for long-term value. Building a diverse learning ecosystem enhances creativity, and hands-on experience ensures real expertise. Ultimately, adaptability and problem-solving will define success in an AI-driven landscape, paving the way for future career growth.

Dive into 2026, dubbed the Year of Enterprise AI, as the conversation shifts from simple assistants to powerful superagents. Explore the skyrocketing costs of AI and the pressing need for high-value, business-specific applications. Learn about the deep infrastructure investments and the hidden expenses of using AI, including the environmental implications of data center buildouts. Discover the challenges in data quality and the evolution of vertical AI models that outshine generic ones. A fascinating look at how AI will reshape industries!

In a year dominated by AI, several critical human capital issues were overlooked. The rollback of DEI policies has serious workplace implications, while gender equity concerns faded into the background. Well-being also took a hit despite a decline in national happiness. The rush to adopt AI raises questions about productivity gains and socioeconomic disparities. Emphasizing reskilling and human-centered leadership will be vital as organizations adapt to these changes. A look ahead reveals the importance of addressing these soft issues in 2026.

The traditional online learning industry is in the midst of a radical transformation driven by AI, as highlighted by the recent Udemy-Coursera acquisition. This shift promises a future of personalized professional development, overshadowing the old courseware and publishing models. AI is not just disrupting; it’s reshaping how corporate training functions and how learners engage with content. With the emergence of dynamic learning platforms and personalized AI tutors, the landscape of skill acquisition is evolving rapidly. It’s an exciting time for HR and corporate leaders!

Discover the complex landscape of talent acquisition transformed by AI. Learn how recruitment varies across industries and the importance of data in revealing hidden candidate experiences. Josh explores the value of pre-hire assessments, collaborative hiring, and the significance of hiring for cultural fit. He highlights the challenge of bias in hiring practices and the need for continuous skill assessments in an AI-driven world. Finally, he positions talent acquisition as a key driver of company growth in the age of technology.

Tristram Gray, Chief People Officer at Kmart Australia, discusses innovative AI-driven hiring strategies that have transformed recruitment. He shares how Kmart processes hundreds of thousands of applications to hire 12,000 people each year, achieving a 73% reduction in time-to-hire. With mobile-first AI assessments focusing on culture and behaviors, candidate satisfaction soared to 90%. Tristram emphasizes ethical AI use, proactive recruiting, and the importance of personalized feedback, making a significant impact on diversity and retention in a large workforce.

The podcast dives into the intriguing dynamics of arrogance versus humility in business leadership. It covers how success can breed arrogance, leading to blind spots that hurt long-term growth. Listeners hear examples from iconic leaders like Gates and Nadella, highlighting lessons from their contrasting styles. The discussion also touches on the repercussions of big corporate bets, particularly Meta's recent write-off. Additionally, exciting insights are shared about upcoming research and innovative features designed to enhance leadership development through a new platform.

Recent research reveals that CHRO tenures have dropped 20% and that the role is predominantly held by women, yet they face pay disparities compared to other C-suite positions. As expectations rise, CHROs are now adopting responsibilities akin to Chief Transformation and Strategy Officers. The impact of AI is reshaping workforce dynamics and job redesign, while employee anxieties about automation challenge retention efforts. Moreover, the evolving HR landscape sees increased complexity and the need for CHROs to balance strategic roles with everyday HR functions.

Jane Hoskisson, Director of Talent at IATA, and Alina Aronberga, former SVP of HR for Air Baltic, delve into the booming aviation industry and its demand for diverse talent. They discuss the Global Aviation and Aerospace Skills Taskforce (GAAST), which outlines necessary competencies for various airline roles, especially as impacted by AI. With insights on regional skills gaps and the imperative of diversity in hiring practices, they emphasize how airlines can adopt the new skills model for sustainable growth and effective HR strategies.