• #130 - Kris Saling - The US Army & Data Driven Talent Management
    Jun 22 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    In this episode of Directionally Correct, join Cole as he engages in a lively conversation with Kris Saling, the Director of Talent Innovation at the U.S. Army. Kris shares her fascinating journey from starting a food blog at the Pentagon to leading talent innovation efforts in the military. Discover how she integrates her love for data and analytics into effective talent management strategies.

    Learn about Kris's accidental yet impactful career path in the Armed Forces, her insights on fostering creativity and innovation within a structured environment, and the challenges of implementing people analytics in the U.S. Army. Kris also dives into her book "Data Driven Talent Management," offering listeners a practical guide to establishing people analytics programs.

    Whether you're interested in military careers, data analytics, or talent management, this episode provides valuable insights into how innovative thinking can transform traditional systems. Tune in and gain a whole new perspective on the intersection of data, talent, and military service.

    • Scott Reida - Evaluating talent hubs using AI

    • Social contract with layoffs and offshoring

    • Are our list of biases holding us back?

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #129 - Drs. Mark Huselid & Alec Levenson - Workforce Analytics: A Global Perspective
    Jun 15 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    Welcome to another episode of Directionally Correct, a People Analytics podcast hosted by Cole. Today, we are joined by distinguished guests Mark Huselid, a renowned Professor of Workforce Analytics at Northeastern University, and Alec Levenson, a Director at the Center for Effective Organizations at the University of Southern California. This episode delves into the intricate world of workforce analytics with a focus on global perspectives, as our guests discuss their new book, "Workforce Analytics, A Global Perspective," co-authored with Martin Edwards and Dana Minbaeva.

    Dive into the conversation about how analytics has evolved beyond a North American-centric approach, addressing global challenges in measurement, legal standards, and cultural intricacies in talent management. Our experts discuss the interdisciplinary nature of workforce analytics, drawing parallels with fields like economics, psychology, and even insights from Charlie Munger of Berkshire Hathaway.

    This episode also highlights the importance of variance in analytics and how global collaboration from diverse professional backgrounds contributes to the richness of the book. Hear firsthand experiences from Mark and Alec about the challenges of integrating analytics into organizational strategy, and the journey of writing a book amidst a global pandemic.

    Perfect for listeners keen on understanding the future of people analytics and those looking to advance their knowledge on managing talent in a globally integrated manner. Be sure to subscribe to our Substack newsletter, watch our YouTube videos, and consider supporting us as a patron. All opinions are our own.

    • Why do scientists disagree even when they have the same data and methods

    • Alec’s previous book: Strategic Analytics (check out the big font version)

    • Mark’s previous books: The HR Scorecard, The Workforce Scorecard, and The Differentiated Workforce

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    56 mins
  • #128 - Chris Butler - HR Tech Voices Episode with One Model
    Jun 8 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    In this episode, we discuss One Models’ new AI Agents product release that is shared exclusively on Directionally Correct!

    To book a demo with One Model to see their new AI Agents release, scan this QR code or go here to see their Directionally Correct webpage!

    _________________

    Welcome to another episode of Directionally Correct, a podcast dedicated to exploring the fascinating world of people analytics. Hosted by Cole and Scott, this episode features Chris Butler, the founder and CEO of One Model, as part of the HR Tech Voices series. Join us as we delve into the future of people analytics with Chris, who shares innovative insights into AI agents and their transformative impact on HR technology.

    In this episode, Chris discusses his journey from sailing boats in Australia to pioneering HR analytics. He highlights the evolution and challenges faced in people data systems, explaining how One Model aims to revolutionize this space. Chris provides a unique perspective on leveraging AI for enhanced productivity in HR functions and presents a vision of a future where AI integrates seamlessly into enterprise systems, offering tools that automate complex processes.

    Listen as Chris elaborates on One Model's sophisticated AI strategy, emphasizing the role of enterprise AI in reshaping how organizations interact with data. The conversation extends to potential implications for HR teams and the importance of security and governance in this evolving landscape. Whether you're in the HR tech field or simply curious about cutting-edge analytics, this episode is packed with valuable insights and forward-thinking discussions.

    For those interested in seeing these AI capabilities in action, Chris invites listeners to explore their designated demo page for a deeper dive into One Model's offerings. Tune in for a riveting discussion and glimpse into the future of people analytics with Chris Butler, only on Directionally Correct.

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    40 mins
  • #127 - Dr. Stephanie Murphy - SIOP People Analytics LEC 2025 & SPA
    Jun 1 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    Welcome to Directionally Correct, the people's podcast with Cole and Scott. In this insightful episode, Cole is joined by Stephanie Murphy, VP of People Experience at UnitedHealth Group and a distinguished two-time guest. Stephanie shares her intriguing journey, which spans from building gas stations to leading major organizations in people analytics.

    The discussion touches on the nuances of people analytics, with Stephanie offering a behind-the-scenes look at organizing the Society for People Analytics and the SIOP Leading Edge Consortium. Hear her experiences on leading through crisis, fostering community among professionals, and the importance of having effective listening channels in place within large organizations.

    As a listener-supported podcast, Directionally Correct aims to educate and entertain professionals navigating the people analytics landscape. Remember to subscribe, watch, or listen via your preferred platform and consider supporting the podcast through their patron link shared in the show notes. Join Cole, Scott, and Stephanie as they explore captivating stories and insights in the ever-evolving world of people analytics.

    • REGISTER for the SIOP People Analytics LEC in Atlanta on Oct 23-24th HERE

    • Networks of job searchers - high vs. low status

    • Relationship between internet addiction and psychotic-like experiences

    • Does people analytics team size matter?

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    52 mins
  • #126 - Deborah Weiss - TALREOS, WORRC, and Human Capital Reporting Standards
    May 25 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    In this episode of Directionally Correct, host Cole is joined by Deborah Weiss, the Director of the Workforce Science Project at Northwestern University School of Law. Together, they explore the intricate world of people analytics, focusing on the Workforce Reporting Consortium (WoRC). Debra shares her journey from law and tax to becoming a leading voice in people analytics, highlighting the importance of creating standardized human capital measures.

    The discussion delves into the challenges and breakthroughs in setting standards for workforce metrics, including the pivotal role of tech companies and the generational shift in HR leadership. Learn about the foundational principles of the WoRC, the impact of standardized measures on businesses and investors, and how these initiatives aim to provide more transparent and actionable insights into workforce data.

    Whether you're a seasoned HR professional or new to people analytics, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of workforce reporting and the potential to influence significant change in how companies understand their human capital.

    • An analysis of 10K PhD students finds…

    • Does counting things change what counts

    • Our ability to process information is falling

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    52 mins
  • #125 - Dr. John Boudreau & Pete Ramstad - Why Beyond HR is More Relevant Than Ever
    May 18 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    Welcome to Directionally Correct, a people analytics podcast hosted by Cole and Scott. In this episode, we have two extraordinary guests: John Boudreau, a Senior Research Scientist at the Center for Effective Organizations at USC, and Pete Ramstad, a former CHRO and Strategy and Organizational Consultant. Dive into a thought-provoking conversation about the dynamics of people analytics and talent evaluation, exemplified by their renowned book, Beyond HR.

    Join us as John and Pete discuss the evolution of HR practices and their impact on measuring executive performance. From recounting the inception of their collaboration to delving into the nuances of utility analysis, this episode offers insights on leveraging various disciplines to refine HR strategy. Listen in for perspectives on how Gen AI could further transform talent assessment in organizations.

    Aside from analytics, explore topics like the contextual relevance of work from home policies, as well as methodologies for estimating employee value. John and Pete seamlessly integrate finance, psychology, and economics, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary approaches. Tune in for an engaging dialogue that challenges conventional HR norms and shines a light on the potential pathways for future enterprise strategies.

    • Surprising combinations of researchers from distant disciplines

    • Five reasons leaders never say "directionally correct"

    • How many people does a company actually need

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • #124 - James Birchler - The Science of Executive Coaching
    May 11 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    In this episode of Directionally Correct, hosted by Cole and Scott, listeners are introduced to James Birchler, an Executive Leadership Coach and Startup Technical Advisor. The conversation is filled with engaging insights as James shares his unique journey from culinary arts to executive coaching.

    The episode dives into the nuances of coaching technical teams, the essence of the CAMS coaching framework, and the importance of human connection and intimacy in leadership. James discusses his experiences with innovation, particularly within large and small companies, and how these environments foster creativity and continuous learning.

    Listeners are also treated to James’ culinary passion, providing light-hearted moments in the dialogue. Whether you’re interested in enhancing your leadership skills, understanding people analytics, or exploring the synergies between cooking and coaching, this episode offers enlightening and entertaining content.

    • Have humans passed peak brain power

    • Being the recipient of venting at work

    • Workplace coaching: Does it work meta analysis

    Stop "Coaching" Your Tech Team (And What to Do Instead): How to level up your engineering leadership with CAMS: Coaching, Advising, Mentoring, and Supporting. Self-Awareness: The Foundation of Your Leadership OS. The Missing Manual for founders about how self-awareness powers leadership at scale. Get Out of the Building: Essential Lessons from IMVU and Amazon on Starting with the Customer. James' guest post on Ethan Evans' Level Up Substack. JamesBirchler.com - James' website with more information on his coaching and technical advisory practice. Also, here is a draft summary in case we can include one: James Birchler, veteran tech leader and executive coach, joins the Directionally Correct podcast to unpack "The Science of Executive Coaching." In this episode, we explore his groundbreaking CAMS framework that revolutionizes how leaders support their teams, dive into why Lean Startup methodologies create more effective products and teams, investigate the fascinating research on cognitive abilities in our digital age, and debate whether AI can truly replicate the magic of human coaching relationships. James shares compelling stories from his extensive career leading technical teams, offers practical wisdom on building self-awareness as your leadership foundation, and reveals counterintuitive insights about workplace communication that foster trust. You'll want to check out this episode of the #1 people analytics podcast for transformative leadership strategies from one of tech's most insightful minds!
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    58 mins
  • #123 - Shonna Waters & Tara Behrend - LIVE from SIOP 2025
    May 4 2025
    Help support the podcast: We are a listener supported podcast. By becoming a patron you will help us cover the costs of producing and distributing our podcast, while getting special premium access to the hosts. Please become a patron of Directionally Correct by going here: https://patron.podbean.com/directionallycorrect

    In this engaging episode of Directionally Correct, tune in as Cole & Scott host an insightful discussion with esteemed guests Tara Behrend and Shonna Waters at the SIOP Conference. The episode delves into the evolving landscape of I/O psychology, focusing on the scientist-practitioner-partner triad model, the integration of AI in HR, and the role of people analytics in shaping the future of the field.

    Join the conversation as Tara and Shonna share their experiences as female leaders in the SIOP organization and their vision for fostering a culture that embraces innovation and diversity. Discover the significance of staying connected with the latest trends, the importance of practical collaboration, and the ethical considerations of incorporating new technologies in the workplace.

    Whether you're a seasoned I/O psychologist or a budding practitioner, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of today's dynamic work environment.

    • Longitudinal meta analysis of range restriction in GMA

    • SIOP White Paper: How to survive the AI revolution

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    53 mins