HR's Secret Weapon: Decoding Human Potential with Jackie Dube

04/24/25 • 45 min

Ever wonder why traditional hiring processes fail so often? In this eye-opening conversation, The Predictive Index's Chief People Officer Jackie Dube reveals how data-driven talent optimization transformed their approach to finding and developing exceptional talent.
Jackie shares the compelling evolution of PI's interview process with host Bob Goodwin. She explains how their behavioral assessments help identify which candidates will thrive in specific roles without using them as rigid filters. "It's about understanding humans and what drives them," Jackie explains, highlighting how this approach transcends the limitations of resume-based hiring.
The most profound revelation comes when Jackie shares PI's commitment to skills-based hiring. "We care about curiosity and attitude," she states firmly, revealing how this philosophy enabled remarkable transformations within their organization. Their current director of engineering began as a product marketer, and when faced with unexpected leadership departures, they seamlessly transitioned their VP of product design to lead their sales department—with outstanding results. This internal mobility has created a culture where talent thrives and adapts to changing business needs.
Perhaps most fascinating is PI's innovative "culture interview" conducted by someone outside the hiring team. This unique approach ensures candidates experience the broader company culture beyond their potential teammates and provides valuable perspective on cultural alignment with their "THREADS" values (teamwork, honesty, reliability, energy, action, drive, scope). As Jackie notes with a smile, "We do have a no-jackass policy."
For HR professionals navigating today's challenging talent landscape, Jackie offers practical advice: look beyond resumes, avoid assumptions about employment gaps, provide clear communication throughout the process, and recognize that the right attitude and curiosity often matter more than direct experience. "Don't be a bystander," she urges, encouraging listeners to leverage all available tools—from assessments to emerging AI—to make better talent decisions.
Ready to transform your approach to talent? Listen now and discover how understanding human drives could revolutionize your hiring success.

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The Art of Learning and Development with David Hayden

In this episode of the HRchat show, Bill Banham is joined by David Hayden. David has a background in L&D, organisation design, recruitment and lean engineering.

David says has seen his profession move from traditional training functions to multi-digital approaches to learning and development.
David has contributed to CIPD content on L&D, including podcasts, research reports, factsheets, and member learning resources. He was employed by the CIPD for 10 years. He is also the co-author of two books: Adjacent Learning with Steve George and Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace with Kathy Beevers and Andrew Rae. He is currently putting the finishing touches to the next edition of L&D Practice in the Workplace with Kathy Beevers due for release in November 2025.

He currently works freelance, on the associate books for a few different organisations and is a Director at The Learning Network.
Questions for David include:

With the vast array of L&D books on the market, why L&D Practice in the Workplace?
What makes this version different from the previous 4 editions?
How has AI impacted the L&D profession over the past few years?
What advice would you give someone entering into the world of L&D?
We all think there is a book inside of us, what are your tips on undertaking the writing process?

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Building Trauma-Informed Workplaces That Actually Work with Kirsten I’Anson

Navigating workplace anxiety during turbulent times requires leaders who understand both the science behind effective communication and the practical steps needed to create psychological safety. Kirsten I’Anson, Vice President of People and Culture at Community Savings Credit Union, delivers masterful insights on leadership approaches that calm rather than inflame tensions during political and economic instability.
Kirsten advocates for a leadership style that acknowledges societal anxieties while providing confidence through decisive action. Drawing from her experiences during the pandemic, she shares how promoting mental health benefits led to a remarkable 73% increase in usage, creating an environment where employees felt empowered to discuss previously taboo topics. By bringing in clinical counselors and normalizing therapeutic support, Community Savings built a culture that genuinely values mental wellbeing beyond superficial initiatives.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn when exploring whether leaders should express political views at work. Kirsten makes a compelling case that organizations with clear social purposes can thoughtfully engage with political issues, provided they've been transparent about their values during recruitment. This approach has allowed Community Savings to attract team members whose personal values align with their mission to unite working people and build a just world.
Perhaps most valuable is Kirsten's discussion of trauma-informed workplaces. With research showing 60-70% of adults have experienced traumatic events, she argues that addressing trauma isn't just compassionate—it's pragmatic business strategy that reduces absenteeism while increasing productivity and workplace pride. Simple changes like renaming "sick days" to "wellness days" have profoundly impacted their culture, creating an environment where employees freely discuss mental health without stigma.
Ready to bring more boldness to your HR practices? Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn to exchange ideas about innovative approaches to workplace wellbeing and psychological safety. Her practical wisdom proves that thoughtful, values-driven leadership delivers results for both people and organizations during uncertain times.

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HRchat Podcast - HR's Secret Weapon: Decoding Human Potential with Jackie Dube

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:03.283

Welcome to the HR Chat Show , one of the world's most downloaded and shared podcasts designed for HR pros , talent execs , tech enthusiasts and business leaders . For hundreds more episodes and what's new in the world of work , subscribe to the show , follow us on social media and visit HRGazettecom . And visit HRGazettecom .

Speaker 200:00:24.608

Hey everybody