Episodi

  • EP242: The Quiet Cost of Unstructured Hiring

    EP242: The Quiet Cost of Unstructured Hiring
    Feb 12 2026
    What happens when hiring decisions are shaped more by memory than by structure?In this episode of Human Innovation, I sit down with Christian Wastlhuber to explore why recruitment in large organizations rarely fails loudly, and why it quietly becomes slower, more biased, and harder to explain.Christian shares his unusual path from Egyptology to recruitment and how studying human behavior at a distance has shaped how he views hiring systems today. We talk about why gut feeling dominates when processes are unstructured, how interpretation replaces evidence, and why many hiring problems are created by the environment rather than by people.We explore data driven recruitment beyond dashboards and metrics, focusing on qualitative signals, comparable interviews, and the role clarity that makes human judgment more reliable. We also discuss ownership, speed, candidate experience, and why recruiting behaves more like infrastructure than a service function.This conversation views hiring not as an HR task but as a human system that either learns or calcifies over time.In this episode, you will hear about:Why hiring slows down without clear process ownership How gut feeling becomes a substitute for structure What data driven recruitment really means beyond numbers Why comparable interviews reduce bias How small changes in rhythm can alter long term outcomesIf you work with people, build teams, or lead inside complex organizations, this episode offers a calm look at the systems you are already inside.Listen in and explore what human innovation looks like in recruitment.Highlights00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:32 Christian’s Background and Early Life03:45 Academic Journey and Egyptology08:16 Transition to Recruitment16:13 Data-driven Recruitment22:12 Structured Candidate Evaluation23:29 Team Collaboration24:19 Recruiting Responsibilities25:02 Understanding the Business26:06 The Impact of Data27:06 Process Challenges28:51 Candidate Experience31:55 Cost of Poor Hiring35:05 Implementing Structure41:57 The Future of Recruitment and AI45:04 Connecting on LinkedInGuest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-wastlhuber/Business: https://www.unleashppl.com/deJens Heitland Links:Website: ⁠https://www.jensheitland.com/⁠Business: ⁠https://www.heitlandmediagroup.com/⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/⁠Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/⁠TikTok:⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland⁠X/Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/jensheitland⁠Newsletter:⁠ https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jens-heitland⁠Subscribe and listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast here: YT:⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg⁠Web:⁠ https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome⁠Apple:⁠ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4⁠Spotify:⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL⁠
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    47 min
  • Draft Book - Uncovering a CEO’s Voice - By Jens Heitland

    Draft Book - Uncovering a CEO’s Voice - By Jens Heitland
    Jul 15 2025

    This is a pre-release audio version of my upcoming book for enthusiasts and people who dare to listen to a version that is still in progress


    Timecode:

    00:00 Chapter 1: The Time Reluctant Digital CEO

    12:01 Chapter 2: The Visibility Crisis

    27:59 Chapter 3: Uncovering the CEO's Superpower

    46:09 Chapter 4: Finding Purpose Beyond Profit

    01:05:47 Chapter 5: The Power of Story

    01:27:07 Chapter 6: Building the Digital Legacy Hub

    01:53:06 Chapter 7: Content Creation for the Time-Starved Executive

    02:19:08 Chapter 8: The Omnipresence Strategy

    02:46:02 Chapter 9: From Brand to Business Opportunities

    3:16:46 Chapter 10: Balancing the Dual Brand

    03:48:24 Chapter 11: The CEO's Digital Leadership Team

    04:10:13 Chapter 12: The Legacy Beyond the Role

    04:35:38 Epilogue: The Transformed Leader
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    4 ore e 47 min
  • EP241: Unleashing Creativity & Experience Design with Dorchess De Koning

    EP241: Unleashing Creativity & Experience Design with Dorchess De Koning
    May 29 2025

    What happens when you bring embodiment, creativity, and intentional design into the way we work and lead? In this episode, I sit down with Dorchess De Koning, founder of Awe Academy, to explore how experience design can radically transform teams, organizations, and human connection.

    Dorchess shares her unique journey—from designing immersive childhood birthday parties to leading team workations and building learning experiences that blend play, purpose, and emotion. We dive into how embodiment reconnects us to ourselves, why workplaces need more awe and less autopilot, and how leaders can create cultures of curiosity and trust.

    This episode is a deep yet practical look at innovation through the lens of being fully human.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • Why embodiment is key to leadership and collaboration

    • How to design meaningful team experiences that build connection

    • The role of play and awe in adult learning and innovation

    • How Dorchess helps brands and organizations rethink engagement

    • Why small, thoughtful experiences often beat big, flashy ones

    Whether you're leading a team, building a brand, or just looking to reconnect with your creative self—this conversation is for you.

    Listen now and explore what it means to innovate as a whole human.


    Highlights:

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Background

    01:00 Meeting in the Netherlands

    02:44 First Encounter with Experience Design

    04:31 Transition to Entrepreneurship

    05:42 Exploring Interior Design

    07:04 The Importance of Embodiment

    11:08 Leadership and Team Connection

    17:38 Challenges in Modern Workplaces

    21:56 Brainstorming with Silly Costumes

    22:37 The Power of Experience Design

    23:27 Curated Activities for Deeper Learning

    24:17 Introducing Workation: Work and Vacation Combined

    26:15 Physical Exercises for Team Connection

    30:27 Experience Design for Brands

    32:42 Convincing the CFO: The Value of Experiential Marketing

    36:42 Unique Keynote Experiences

    39:19 Embracing Awe and Playfulness

    Guest Links:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorchess/

    Business: https://aweacademy.live/

    Jens Heitland Links:

    Website: https://www.jensheitland.com/

    Business: https://www.heitlandmediagroup.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitland

    Newsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jens-heitland

    Subscribe and listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast here:

    YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg

    Web: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    41 min
  • EP240: Stuntman on Fire with Chuck Borden

    EP240: Stuntman on Fire with Chuck Borden
    May 22 2025

    Join us as we dive into the thrilling world of professional stunt work with Chuck Borden, a seasoned stuntman and coordinator with over 400 film and television credits.

    In this episode, Chuck shares his journey from growing up in Los Angeles to becoming a leading figure in the stunt industry.

    We discuss the challenges and risks involved in performing high-octane stunts, the importance of safety and trust among stunt professionals, and Chuck's transition to living in the Netherlands. Chuck also talks about his aspirations in scriptwriting, directing, and mentoring the next generation. Don't miss Chuck's fascinating stories from sets of iconic movies like 'Fast and Furious' and 'Dark Man,' his insights on the importance of hard work and perseverance, and his upcoming endeavors in the film industry.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Weekend Fun and Stuntman Brotherhood

    00:44 Journey to the Netherlands

    02:45 Becoming a Stuntman

    05:06 Learning the Art of Falling

    08:15 Dangerous Stunts and Close Calls

    12:52 Behind the Scenes of Famous Movies

    18:15 From Stuntman to Coordinator

    19:30 Behind the Scenes: Working with Cynthia Rothrock

    20:37 Pitching at the American Film Market

    22:13 European Film Market: New Opportunities

    23:39 Diverse Scriptwriting and Directing Ambitions

    26:17 The Instagram Challenge and Social Media Growth

    28:17 Keynote Speaking and Business Lessons from Hollywood

    31:18 The Importance of Hard Work and Persistence

    36:58 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Mentorship

    Guest Links:

    Chuck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckborden/

    Chuck on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0096119/

    Chuck on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borden_chuck/


    Jens Heitland Links:

    Website: https://www.jensheitland.com/

    Business: https://www.heitlandmediagroup.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitland

    Newsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jens-heitland

    Subscribe and listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast here:

    YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg

    Web: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    39 min
  • EP239: SUCCESS = IQ x EQ x FQ with Faris Aranki - Walk the Talk London

    EP239: SUCCESS = IQ x EQ x FQ with Faris Aranki - Walk the Talk London
    Feb 15 2025
    What if success wasn’t just about intelligence or hard work, but a precise formula? In this episode of The Jens Heitland Show - Human Innovation, Faris Aranki, London, shares his unique equation for success: IQ x EQ x FQ.Breaking Down the Formula for SuccessFaris introduces three essential elements for achieving meaningful success:IQ (Intelligence Quotient): Great ideas are the foundation. But generating ideas alone isn’t enough. The key is to test, refine, and execute them effectively.EQ (Emotional Intelligence): No success happens in isolation. The ability to engage, inspire, and lead others is crucial for turning ideas into reality.FQ (Focus Quotient): Perhaps the most underestimated factor. Focus is what separates those who start from those who finish. Cutting through distractions and staying committed to goals is a make-or-break skill.From Theory to Action: Walking the TalkSo how do we go from understanding this formula to applying it? Faris emphasizes:Getting ideas out of your head. Too often, people overthink instead of sharing and testing their ideas.Building self-awareness. Emotional intelligence starts with knowing your impact on others and adapting when needed.Developing focus like a muscle. Small, consistent habits; like setting daily goals or having an accountability partner; help sharpen focus over time.Applying the Success Formula in Teams and OrganizationsBeyond individual success, Faris highlights how teams can integrate IQ, EQ, and FQ to drive results. He shares real-world examples, including how he helped a company simplify 150 strategic projects through gamification. By turning their priorities into a competitive card game, the team was able to let go of unnecessary tasks and refocus on what truly mattered.He also discusses how high-performing teams can unintentionally create friction within organizations. His solution? Encourage cross-team collaboration, increase transparency, and ensure successful teams actively support others rather than unintentionally creating silos.Your First Steps Toward SuccessSuccess doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen alone. The key takeaway? Start moving. Whether it’s a simple conversation with your team, setting a small focus goal, or actively improving how you interact with others; every step counts.Ready to start walking the talk? Listen to the full episode now.Highlights:0:00 Introduction to the Jens Heitland Show00:23 Defining Success with Ferris00:47 The Three Components of Success: IQ, EQ, and FQ01:31 Taking the First Step Towards Success02:40 Applying Emotional Intelligence (EQ)03:36 Mastering Focus Quotient (FQ)04:29 Implementing the Framework in Companies05:41 Fun and Team Dynamics06:38 Practical Examples and Strategies09:09 Addressing Organizational Challenges13:18 Final Thoughts and ConclusionGuest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/farisaranki/Website: https://www.shiageto.com/Jens Heitland Links:Connect with me! Website: https://www.jensheitland.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitlandX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitlandNewsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletterSubscribe and Listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast here: YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWgWeb: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthomeApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    15 min
  • EP238: Amplify your Whisper with Professional Guitarist and Keynote Concert Speaker Jim Perona

    EP238: Amplify your Whisper with Professional Guitarist and Keynote Concert Speaker Jim Perona
    Feb 6 2025

    Amplify Your Whisper – A Conversation with Jim Perona on Resilience, Music, and Innovation

    In this episode of The Jens Heitland Show - Human Innovation, we explore an extraordinary journey of reinvention and adaptation with professional guitarist and keynote concert speaker Jim Perona.

    Jim's career as a classical guitarist was soaring when an unexpected diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) threatened to change everything. Instead of stepping away from his passion, he embraced the challenge and found a way to innovate his performance style. Today, he combines storytelling and music in "keynote concerts," a powerful new format that merges inspiration with artistry.

    Key Takeaways from this Episode:

    1. Turning Challenges into Innovation When Jim began experiencing loss of motor function in his hands, it seemed like an impossible obstacle for a guitarist. Instead of giving up, he trained himself to play without looking at his instrument, pushing the boundaries of skill and adaptation.
    2. The Power of Amplifying Your Whisper Jim shares how listening to that small, persistent inner voice led him to breakthrough moments in his life. Whether in music or business, finding and amplifying your unique voice is the key to success.
    3. How Keynote Concerts Redefine Performance Traditional keynotes focus on words; concerts focus on music. Jim blends both, using the power of live music to create unforgettable emotional connections with audiences.
    4. Lessons for Leaders & Innovators Business leaders often overlook the lessons hidden in music. From Beethoven's controversial use of woodwinds to the improvisation of jazz musicians, there is much to learn about adapting to change, taking creative risks, and leading with emotion.
    5. Music as a Bridge to Human Connection In an age dominated by AI and digital tools, Jim’s journey proves that human creativity and emotional connection cannot be automated. His performances serve as a reminder of the irreplaceable power of live experiences.

    Jim’s story is not just about music it’s about resilience, reinvention, and redefining possibilities. If you’ve ever faced a challenge that made you question your path, this episode will inspire you to innovate, adapt, and keep moving forward.


    Highlights:

    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    00:32 Jim's Musical Journey Begins

    02:24 Choosing the Guitar

    04:16 Pursuing Music Professionally

    06:00 Classical Guitar and College

    08:26 First Earnings and Early Gigs

    13:15 Facing Multiple Sclerosis

    16:03 Adapting to MS and Continuing Music

    23:35 Keynote Concerts Concept

    31:57 The Power of Music and AI

    42:48 Conclusion and Future Aspirations


    Guest Links:


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-perona-955b812a/


    Website: https://jimperona.com/



    Jens Heitland Links:


    Connect with me!


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitland

    Newsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter


    ===========================

    Subscribe and Listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast HERE:


    YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg

    Web: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    47 min
  • EP237: Building Your Personal Brand with System

    EP237: Building Your Personal Brand with System
    Jan 29 2025
    Building Your Personal Brand with System Your personal brand already exists—but are you the one shaping it? In this episode of The Jens Heitland Show – Human Innovation, we explore the structured approach to personal branding that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders stand out in a crowded digital world. Why Personal Branding Matters Whether you're advancing your career, growing a business, or looking to establish yourself as a thought leader, credibility and visibility are the two essential factors that determine how the world perceives you. Your online presence is often your first impression—what happens when you Google yourself? Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Visibility-Credibility Equation – Why personal brand value is a mix of both and how to balance them.How to Assess Your Current Online Presence – A live Google search exercise to understand how others perceive you online.Building Your Brand Story – Learn to craft a compelling narrative that aligns with your career goals and values.The Importance of a Personal Hub – Why having a website as your digital HQ is crucial for long-term visibility.Content Production & Distribution Strategies – A breakdown of how to create and share content across platforms efficiently.Leveraging AI & Large Language Models – How tools like ChatGPT can enhance your credibility and content strategy.The Power of Consistent Content Creation – Why daily or weekly visibility builds long-term brand equity.The Role of Community in Personal Branding – How engagement and collaborations can amplify your reach. From Brand Awareness to Career Growth Your personal brand can be your most powerful asset for career advancement and business success. By implementing a structured system, you can control the narrative around your expertise, attract opportunities, and become a recognized voice in your field. Tune in now to learn how to apply this personal branding system to amplify your influence and accelerate your success. Highlights: 00:00 Welcome to The Jens Heitland Show 01:14 Introduction to Personal Branding 03:22 Building Credibility and Visibility 04:27 Famous Personal Brands 10:31 Interactive Exercise: Google Yourself 15:25 Understanding Your Personal Brand 19:34 Creating Your Brand Story 28:22 The Importance of a Personal Hub 37:12 Understanding the Importance of Personal Branding 37:51 Building and Owning Your Online Presence 39:17 Leveraging Large Language Models for Credibility 41:27 Content Production and Distribution Strategies 46:22 Optimizing Your Content for SEO 47:34 Creating and Managing Content Pillars 48:55 Utilizing Social Media for Brand Visibility 49:17 The Power of Consistent Content Creation 50:05 Engaging with Your Audience Across Platforms 01:04:14 The Role of Community in Personal Branding 01:05:46 Career Advancement Through Personal Branding 01:13:45 Direct Outreach and Collaboration Strategies 01:15:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Jens Heitland Links: Connect with me! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitland Newsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter =========================== Subscribe and Listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast HERE: YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg Web: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    1 ora e 19 min
  • EP236: Immersive Experiences and the Power of Storytelling with Frances Vieras Blanc and Jens Heitland

    EP236: Immersive Experiences and the Power of Storytelling with Frances Vieras Blanc and Jens Heitland
    Jan 16 2025
    On this episode of The Jens Heitland Show - Human Innovation, I explore the transformative potential of immersive experiences with Frances Vieras Blanc, a seasoned designer of unforgettable moments. With a background spanning filmmaking, cabaret, video games, and theater, Frances shares her unique journey from the U.S. to France, culminating in the founding of her own company, Eat the Cake Studio. Frances dives deep into the concept of immersive experiences—how they go beyond mere engagement to create profound emotional and intellectual connections. She explains the core principles behind designing these experiences: putting participants at the heart of the design process, leveraging multisensory elements, incorporating storytelling, and integrating interactive components such as actors to bring the experience to life. One standout example discussed is a Versailles-inspired team-building event where participants embody historical figures, investigate a real-life scandal, and interact with actors in an immersive chateau setting. Frances emphasizes how immersive experiences like these can forge deeper bonds, transform team dynamics, and inspire creativity in unexpected ways. We also reflect on our shared experiences at the College of Extraordinary Experiences, where immersive design fosters collaboration, connection, and innovation. Frances shares practical tips for businesses to infuse their team-building and events with immersive elements—starting with identifying a clear purpose, embracing themes, and creating meaningful, human-centered interactions. Whether you're looking to engage your team on a deeper level, innovate your event strategy, or simply learn about the transformative power of immersive storytelling, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration. Listen now and discover how to design experiences that captivate and transform. Highlights: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:21 Francis' Journey: From the US to France 02:12 Life in the Pyrenees 04:38 Immersive Experiences: An Introduction 05:02 Defining Immersive Experiences 06:41 Practical Examples of Immersive Experiences 09:26 The Power of Role-Playing in Immersive Experiences 15:17 The College of Extraordinary Experiences 20:27 Integrating Extraordinary Experiences into Business 25:14 Uniting the Immersive Industry 27:08 Designing Events with Purpose 27:48 Practical Tips for Immersive Experiences 29:27 The Power of Themes 30:20 Creating Unique Seminar Experiences 33:01 Fun and Engagement in the Workplace 35:13 The Story Behind 'Eat the Cake Studio' 38:19 Inspiration from Hamilton 42:28 Advice for Young Innovators 43:36 Connecting with Francis Frances Vieras Blanc Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesvierasblanc/ Eat The Cake Studio: https://www.eatthecakestudio.com/ Jens Heitland Links: Connect with me! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensheitland/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JensHeitlandofficial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensheitland/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jensheitland X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jensheitland Newsletter: https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter =========================== Subscribe and Listen to The Jens Heitland Show Podcast HERE: YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjuSGi1feauCNSER3IKuGWg Web: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jens-heitland-show-human-innovation/id1545043872?uo=4 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL
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    45 min