In this episode of The People Dividend podcast, host Mike Horne speaks with workplace strategist Penny de Villiers about the future of work, focusing on the importance of redesigning workplaces to prioritize employee wellbeing and sustainable performance. Penny shares her personal journey from experiencing burnout to advocating for a healthier work environment. The conversation explores the current state of employee engagement, the consequences of neglecting wellbeing, and the role of managers in fostering a supportive workplace culture. They discuss the integration of technology in the workplace, the potential of the four-day work week, and practical steps managers can take to enhance their team's wellbeing and performance.

Key Points:

• Penny de Villiers emphasizes the importance of workplace wellbeing and explains that burnout can lead to significant personal and professional consequences.

• Organizations are beginning to measure employee wellbeing more seriously since investing in this correlates with higher profitability.

• Workplace redesign should focus on creating environments where people can thrive.

• The four-day work week is gaining traction as a viable option as technological integration in the workplace is increasingly alleviating mundane tasks for employees.

• Understanding team dynamics is essential for effective management, yet there is still a gap between leaders' words and their actions when it comes to prioritizing employee wellbeing.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about Penny de Villiers: https://pennydevilliers.com/about

#peopledividendpodcast #podcastepisode #podcastrecommendations #FutureOfWork #WorkplaceWellbeing #SustainablePerformance #Leadership #BurnoutRecovery

In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne and Nancy Griffin explore the interconnected themes of self-worth, net worth, and legacy, particularly in the context of women's empowerment. Nancy shares her journey in advocating for financial independence, wellness, and philanthropy among women, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health and the impact of generosity. The conversation delves into actionable steps for building a legacy and the significance of working with trusted advisors to navigate financial planning. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Nancy highlights the transformative power of philanthropy and the ripple effects it can create within communities.

Key Points:

• Self-worth and net worth are deeply connected.

• Women often bear a disproportionate amount of responsibility for family health and wellness, which are essential for being an asset to others.

• Generosity often returns benefits to the giver and can create a significant ripple effect in communities.

• Women are increasingly earning and inheriting wealth, creating opportunities for stewardship.

• Leadership involves empowering others to step into their strengths.

• Building a legacy starts with education and community involvement.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about Nancy Griffin: https://womenworthwellness.com/about-us/

#peopledividendpodcast #podcastepisode #podcastrecommendations #WomenEmpowerment #HealthAndWealth #Philanthropy #FinancialIndependence #LegacyPlanning

In the inaugural episode of Season 10 of The People Dividend Podcast as well as the 100th episode of the show, host Mike Horne discusses the critical role of people in driving growth, innovation, and success. He emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven leadership, the shift from engagement to belonging, and the evolution of leadership development in a hybrid work environment. Mike calls for organizations to invest in their people and create cultures that foster thriving, innovation, and meaningful connections.

Key Points:

• People are the dividend that keeps paying off, as investing in people leads to greater organizational success.

• Purpose-driven leadership is essential in 2026 as employees increasingly demand leaders who create meaning and inspire action.

• Leadership development focuses on self-awareness and emotional agility.

• Ensuring psychological safety is crucial in creating belonging, which in turn enhances innovation and collaboration.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

#peopledividendpodcast #podcastepisode #podcastrecommendations #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BelongingAtWork #LeadershipDevelopment

In this year-end episode, host Mike Horne reflects on the progress made in 2025 through The People Dividend podcast. He emphasizes the importance of trust, motivation, and the human element in organizations. Key themes from Season Nice include navigating digital life, fostering dynamic cultures, and the significance of equity and inclusion. As the year closes, Mike encourages everyone to invest in their people and to prepare for a purposeful 2026.

Key Points:

• The People Dividend podcast has reached 226 episodes as it closes its 9th season.

• Host Mike Horne celebrates the growth of the community and the invaluable insights his guests have brought to the show over the past season.

• Some of the most important takeaways include:

• • Trust and motivation are essential for workplace success.

  • Connecting talent with purpose enhances impact.

  • Creativity and humor strengthen team dynamics.

  • People-centric strategies are crucial for delivering results.

  • Investing in people unleashes extraordinary impact.

  • Reflecting on meaningful change is vital for future growth.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

In this episode of the People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne speaks with John Wang, author of 'Big Asian Energy' and an executive coach, about the journey to bold leadership and empowerment. They discuss the impact of cultural upbringing on leadership styles, the challenges posed by stereotypes, and the importance of embracing one's authentic self. John shares insights on building confidence, the power of vulnerability, and the significance of understanding cultural nuances in communication. The conversation emphasizes that leadership is not just about competence but also about warmth and connection.

Key Points:

• Leadership is about taking initiative and embracing your authentic self.

• Our cultural upbringing shapes our leadership perspectives and how we succumb to or overcome the negative effects of stereotypes.

• Understanding cultural nuances is crucial in communication and being an effective leader.

• John Wang's book 'Big Asian Energy' encourages individuals to own their strengths and challenge limiting beliefs about oneself.

• Self-doubt can be transformed through understanding personal patterns.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about John Wang: https://www.bigasianenergy.com/about-john-wang

In this episode of The People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne speaks with Celeste Warren, a transformative leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). They discuss the true meaning of equity, common misconceptions, and the importance of creating equitable workplaces. Celeste shares her journey from journalism to DEI leadership, her framework for understanding equity through the 'rocks and fence' analogy, and practical steps that everyone can take to foster inclusivity in their organizations. The conversation emphasizes that equity is essential for achieving collective goals and creating a better world for all.

Key Points:

• Equity is not about preferential treatment but meeting people where they are, and this misconception is what often hinders understanding and implementation.

• Celeste Warren's journey highlights the importance of passion in DEI work.

• The 'rocks and fence' framework illustrates the need for equity in overcoming barriers.

• Building trust and demonstrating servant leadership are key to effective leadership.

• Creating an inclusive environment requires active participation from all employees.

• Equity is foundational for true meritocracy in the workplace.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about Celeste Warren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celestewarrenllc

In this episode of the People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne engages with Rick Walker, an entrepreneur and author of 'Nine Steps to Build a Life of Meaning.' They explore the significance of living a life filled with meaning and purpose, discussing the challenges faced by men in today's society and the importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. Rick shares insights from his journey, the nine steps outlined in his book, and the essence of wisdom in achieving a meaningful life. The conversation culminates in a challenge for listeners to evaluate their relationships and focus on personal development.

Key Points:

• Rick Walker's book addresses the 'meaning crisis' among men and proposes nine steps as a framework for personal transformation.

• Identifying a worthy enemy can motivate action.

• Discomfort is a pathway to growth and clarity.

• Ancient wisdom can inform modern leadership practices.

• Quality relationships are crucial for personal development.

• Living meaningfully requires courage and bold steps.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about Rick Walker: https://rickwalker.com/

In this episode of the People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne speaks with Telle Whitney, a pioneer in technology and diversity. They discuss Telle's journey in tech, the importance of fostering inclusive cultures, and the six C's of thriving organizations: creativity, courage, confidence, curiosity, communication, and community. Telle emphasizes the need for leaders to rethink traditional notions of meritocracy and the importance of collaboration in innovation. The conversation concludes with actionable advice for creating more inclusive and innovative workplaces.

Key Points:

• The myth of meritocracy can hold organizations back.

• True innovation often comes from collaborative teams, not lone geniuses.

• The six C's—creativity, courage, confidence, curiosity, communication, and community—are essential for thriving cultures.

• Courage is critical for leaders to foster an open environment.

• Curiosity can be developed as a skill in teams.

• Community plays a vital role in supporting individuals in their careers.

Links:

Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin

Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com

Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,

LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,

Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike

Learn More about Telle Whitney: https://www.tellewhitney.com/about