AI is changing how work gets done, but it's also raising the bar for leadership.

In this special live episode, hosted by Jason Cochran of People Forward Network, Heather Haas and BJ McKay explore what it means to lead when AI is reshaping the workplace.

While much of the work people are paid to do can now be automated, leadership is not one of those things. Together, they unpack what they're seeing across organizations today, from the growing gap between high-performing leaders and everyone else, to the lack of clarity many teams face around how AI should be used.

The conversation centers on a simple idea: Leadership isn't being replaced. It's being revealed. And the leaders who bring human connection, empathy, creativity, and critical thinking to their work will shape what comes next.

Additional Resources:

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Key Takeaways:

• Leadership remains deeply human despite AI advancement
• AI raises expectations, not reduces leadership responsibility
• Human connection drives meaning, trust, and performance
• Slowing down improves long-term strategic decision making
• Self-awareness separates thriving leaders from struggling ones

A water bottle might look like swag, but it could actually be shaping your company culture.

Live from CultureCon in Las Vegas, Nikki sits down with branded merchandise expert Crissy Manwaring, who has spent more than 25 years helping organizations turn everyday items into powerful cultural symbols. From new hire kits that create belonging before day one to simple artifacts that inspire behavior change across massive organizations, Crissy reveals why physical objects carry emotional weight far beyond their price tag. ✨

Together they unpack the psychology behind why humans attach meaning to objects, how great companies design merchandise people actually value, and why the right piece of swag can turn employees into proud brand ambassadors. If you care about culture, connection, and creating moments that stick, this conversation will change the way you think about company merch.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Crissy on LinkedIn

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Learn more about CultureCon

Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel!

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Humans anchor meaningful memories to physical objects
• Branded merchandise can reinforce identity and belonging
• New hire kits reduce uncertainty before day one
• Quality swag strengthens culture; cheap swag damages trust
• Choice and personalization increase employee connection to brand

In a world starving for real connection, what if the answer is as simple and as radical as pulling up more chairs? 🍽️

Nick and Zach sit down with Tim Jones, Founder and Executive Director of Longer Tables, to explore how shared meals can break down barriers, spark belonging, and remind us what it means to truly see one another.

Tim shares the heart behind Longer Tables and why the table has become such a powerful symbol in his work. From creating spaces where job titles are left behind to helping leaders model vulnerability first, this conversation is a masterclass in building cultures where people feel safe, valued, and fully human. Along the way, Nick, Zach, and Tim reflect on memorable meals, meaningful leadership, and the moments that stay with us long after the table is cleared.

If you care about connection, belonging, and leading people in a more human way, this episode will leave you challenged, encouraged, and ready to set a longer table.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Tim on LinkedIn

Learn more about Longer Tables

Connect with Zach on LinkedIn

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn

Learn more about CultureCon

Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel!

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Belonging begins when leaders model vulnerability first.
• Shared meals create space for deeper human connection.
• Job titles often block authentic relationships at work.
• Presence and storytelling help people feel truly seen.
• Great leaders set tables, not just agendas.