In this episode of HR in Action: Real Stories. Shared Practice., Aaron Robbins is joined by Susannah Robinson, Founder and President of Partnership for Talent, for a wide-ranging conversation on what effective HR and leadership really look like in small and mid-sized organizations.

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience across corporate HR, nonprofit leadership, and consulting, Susannah shares why small and mid-sized companies need just as much strategic HR thinking as large organizations—but in a very different form. The conversation explores how leaders can be more intentional about culture, onboarding, and leadership development when every hire has an outsized impact.

A central theme of the episode is the importance of intentional onboarding and belonging, especially in smaller organizations where culture can shift quickly. Susannah explains why onboarding is not just job training, but a shared responsibility across the organization—and how small, human details can dramatically shape an employee’s early experience and long-term commitment.

The discussion also dives into leadership development in practice, including the role of coaching, role-play, and reflection in helping leaders build confidence with difficult conversations. Susannah shares powerful examples of how leaders can clarify their leadership vision, manage their impact (not just their intent), and adapt their style to better meet the needs of their teams.

This episode is especially relevant for HR leaders, consultants, founders, and executives working in small or growing organizations who want to build strong cultures, empower managers, and treat leadership as a skill that must be practiced—not assumed.