Transforming HR: From Support Function to Strategic Business Partner

HR is no longer a support function — it’s a business engine.
In this episode of Built by People, Nadia Uberoi breaks down how modern HR leaders can move from “running the machine” to driving real organizational transformation using AI, leadership alignment, and business-first thinking.

Drawing from her background in psychology and organizational development, Nadia explains why operational excellence in HR is table stakes — and how improving the HR machine unlocks time, energy, and credibility for higher-impact work. We explore the role of AI and automation in people operations, why transformation fails without clearly defined business objectives, and how HR leaders can align performance management, employee well-being, and business strategy.

If you’re an HR leader, people ops professional, or executive navigating growth, complexity, or transformation, this conversation will help you rethink how HR creates value — not just support.

• Why HR must operate as a strategic business partner, not a service function

• The difference between running vs. improving the HR machine

• How AI and automation should support clear business objectives

• Why leadership alignment is critical to successful HR transformation

• How efficient people operations free up capacity for transformational work

• What organizational development looks like when aligned to business strategy

  
  

00:00 — Nadia’s career journey and the evolution of HR
03:26 — Running vs. improving the HR machine
06:10 — What transformational HR work actually means
08:54 — Aligning HR, AI, and business objectives
11:16 — The future of people leadership

Memorable moments:

“Running the machine is table stakes.”
“Clearly defined business objectives are crucial.”
“Improving the machine is about intentional changes.”

🎧 Whether you’re rethinking performance management, scaling people operations, or exploring AI in HR, this episode offers a practical blueprint for building an HR function that drives results.

AI is changing HR faster than most leaders realize—and many organizations are already behind. In this episode of Built By People, DailyPay Chief People Officer Jon Lowe breaks down how AI in HR, earned wage access, and shifting employee behavior are fundamentally reshaping workplace culture, leadership, and the future of work.

This episode is especially relevant for CHROs, People Ops leaders, and executives responsible for workforce strategy, employee experience, and navigating HR transformation in 2025 and beyond.

Jon Lowe shares a candid look at his non-linear career journey—from early-stage Amazon to Revolut, eToro, and now DailyPay—and how those experiences shaped his leadership philosophy. As Jon notes, “We’re in the second inning of AI in HR,” and the biggest risk for HR leaders isn’t experimentation—it’s thinking too small about what AI will change.

DailyPay is a platform that offers on-demand pay and financial wellness solutions for employers and employees. While most services today are instantaneous, paychecks have lagged behind. DailyPay disrupts how employees get paid by giving workers real-time access to their own earned money—helping businesses modernize employee relationships, improve financial well-being, and drive measurable changes in attendance, engagement, and retention.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How AI will reshape HR org design, productivity, and decision-making

• Why earned wage access directly impacts employee behavior and outcomes

• How the traditional work model is breaking—and what’s replacing it

• Why reciprocal value creation is essential for retention and career growth

• How mindfulness helps leaders sustain performance in high-growth environments

Key questions explored:

• How should HR leaders think about AI beyond incremental efficiency gains?

• Why does a two-week pay cycle no longer match how people actually work?

• What does the future of HR look like in the next 12–24 months?

Chapters
00:00 Jon Lowe’s career journey and leadership evolution
03:37 The biggest HR challenges we’re not talking about enough
05:41 How earned wage access changes employee behavior
08:06 Scaling culture through reciprocal value creation
10:32 AI’s real impact on HR and organizational design
13:18 Unexpected ways AI is already changing work
14:38 Mindfulness, balance, and leadership advice

If you’re navigating AI adoption, employee experience challenges, or workforce transformation, follow Built by People, share this episode with a colleague, and subscribe for more conversations shaping the future of HR and work.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, host Dallin Demke speaks with John Paul Ales-Barnicoat about his unexpected journey into HR, the current priorities of his organization, and the importance of genuine communication in fostering employee engagement. They discuss the challenges of scaling a startup, the role of technology in enhancing communication, and the significance of understanding employees as individuals. John shares his aspirations for the future of the organization and offers valuable advice on leadership and personal development.

Takeaways

• John Paul Ales-Barnicoat's career path was not traditional, starting as a recruiter.
• The organization is focused on scaling its commercial business globally.
• Effective communication is crucial in a dispersed workforce.
• A leadership series was introduced to bridge communication gaps.
• Genuine communication fosters a stronger organizational culture.
• Understanding employees as individuals enhances engagement.
• Slack is a key tool for community building within the company.
• AI tools are being leveraged to improve communication authenticity.
• Future aspirations include ensuring every employee understands their role in the company's growth.
• Leadership is about serving the people and mission, not personal ego.

Summary

In this episode of the Build By People podcast, Maddy Niebauer shares her unexpected career journey from the Peace Corps to founding V-Chief, a company that provides fractional chief of staff services. She discusses her current priorities for the business, innovative initiatives like a pro bono program, and the challenges of employee communication in a virtual environment. Maddy emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and offers advice on delegating tasks to avoid burnout.

Takeaways

• Maddy's career began in the Peace Corps, leading to unexpected paths.
• V-Chief was launched to meet the needs of part-time chief of staff roles.
• The company has grown significantly, especially during COVID-19.
• Maddy prioritizes brand awareness and networking for business growth.
• She emphasizes the importance of listening to customer needs.
• A pro bono program supports small organizations making social impact.
• Employee communication is challenging in a virtual setting.
• Zoho is essential for operations, including CRM and applicant tracking.
• AI is utilized for innovative solutions in sales and operations.
• Maddy advises against hustle culture and promotes work-life balance.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, Jess Smith shares her unique career journey from finance to HR, discussing the challenges faced in the HR landscape today, particularly around engagement and the integration of AI. She emphasizes the importance of reimagining work processes and the need for continuous evolution within HR organizations. Jess also provides valuable advice for aspiring HR professionals, highlighting the significance of understanding AI and prioritizing personal wellness amidst industry changes.

Takeaways

• Jess Smith's career path reflects intentional reinvention.
• Engagement is a critical concern for HR professionals today.
• AI presents both opportunities and uncertainties in the workplace.
• Organizations must evolve continuously to stay relevant.
• Testing new tools is essential for future HR efficiency.
• Reimagining work processes is more important than fixing broken systems.
• HR professionals should prioritize their own wellness.
• Curiosity and continuous learning are vital in HR.
• The integration of AI will require a suite of tools.
• HR is at a pivotal moment that demands proactive leadership.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, Jonathan Brooks shares his unique career journey from working at Arthur Anderson during its collapse to becoming a successful leader in the storage trailer industry. He emphasizes the importance of company culture, employee engagement, and the use of technology in operations. Brooks discusses his vision for growth and offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders, highlighting the significance of emotional intelligence and continuous learning in leadership.

Takeaways

• I was working at Arthur Anderson through the collapse.
• I started working on my MBA at Notre Dame.
• I got involved in operations, sales.
• We rent them into the supply chains of Fortune 100s.
• It always starts with our culture.
• We're about ready to test a new tool.
• We've been reinventing our commercial strategy.
• I give every employee my personal cell phone number.
• We do a semi-annual engagement survey.
• It's about the people.

Summary

In this episode of the Built My People podcast, Pat Porter, a global HR executive, shares insights from his extensive career in human resources. He discusses the importance of driving people strategies that align with business goals, the critical role of communication in employee engagement, and the challenges posed by rapid changes in the business environment, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence.

Takeaways

Pat Porter has over 20 years of experience in HR leadership.

Driving people strategies is essential for measurable business impact.

Effective communication is crucial for employee engagement.

Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and challenges for HR.

HR leaders should absorb knowledge about AI to stay relevant.

Understanding employee turnover is key to organizational success.

Building strong relationships is vital for HR professionals.

Culture and strategy must align for effective HR management.

Embracing change is necessary for future HR success.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, Lauren Tropeano shares her journey into HR, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, career growth, and the impact of crisis management in the workplace. She discusses her experiences during the Ukraine crisis, the significance of building a strong company culture, and the evolving role of AI in HR. Lauren also offers valuable advice for aspiring HR professionals, encouraging them to embrace risks and develop their human skills.

Takeaways

Lauren's journey into HR began with a college class in organizational behavior.

Mentorship played a crucial role in Lauren's career development.

Crisis management in HR can involve humanitarian efforts, as seen during the Ukraine crisis.

Building a strong company culture requires clear communication and leadership principles.

AI is becoming an essential part of the HR conversation, enabling better workforce design.

Aspiring HR professionals should focus on developing their human skills and AI fluency.

Getting uncomfortable often signals growth in one's career.

Effective communication is critical during times of change.

Leaders should lead by example to foster a positive company culture.

Taking risks can lead to rich career opportunities.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, Nick Avery discusses his role at Carta, focusing on the integration of new acquisitions and the challenges of cultural integration. He emphasizes the importance of communication in ensuring a smooth transition and shares insights on balancing meetings with strategic initiatives. Nick also addresses the impact of AI on HR processes and the tools essential for team efficiency. He advocates for a shift in performance management and encourages a culture of risk-taking and innovation within organizations.

Takeaways

We're building an ERP for private capital.

Culture is a funny thing.

Communication is key and it sounds basic, but it's true.

Meetings can often be a time suck.

I think AI has a lot of opportunity.

Performance management processes disappoint so many people.

We need to take on more risk.

Now's the time for big ideas.

We're rethinking everything at Carta.

I love it. I love pulling in Einstein for that.

Summary

In this episode of the Built By People Podcast, Valentina shares her unique career journey from being an immigrant to becoming the Chief People Officer at Curana Health.

She discusses the challenges and opportunities in healthcare HR, the importance of building a unified culture across diverse teams, and her evolving philosophy on leadership. Valentina emphasizes the need for HR leaders to engage with real business problems and offers valuable advice for those aspiring to make an impact in the field.

Takeaways

• Valentina's career was shaped by her immigrant background.
• She transitioned from law to screenwriting and then to HR.
• Her experience at Bridgewater shaped her approach to people management.
• Valentina emphasizes solving problems from root causes.

• Understanding provider motivation is key in healthcare HR.
• Building a unified culture requires tailored approaches for different teams.
• Exit interviews can provide valuable insights for engagement.
• Leadership involves interrogating problems rather than influencing decisions.
• HR leaders should focus on solving business problems to gain influence.

Chapters

00:00 Valentina's Career Journey: From Law to Healthcare

02:23 The Mission of Kirana Health: A Personal Connection

05:23 Challenges in Healthcare HR: Understanding Provider Motivation

08:05 Building Culture Across Diverse Clinical Teams

10:36 Leadership Evolution: From Influence to Alignment

11:40 Advice for Rising HR Leaders: Take Your Seat at the Table

Summary

In this episode of the Built My People podcast, Dina Perreault shares her unique career journey from the military to HR, discussing her current priorities, challenges in finding technical talent, and the importance of effective communication within organizations. She emphasizes the need for HR professionals to act as business partners and the role of AI in enhancing HR functions, while also addressing the significance of personal interaction in the workplace. Dina concludes with advice for HR professionals to focus on business impact and execution.

Takeaways

• Dina's career path transitioned from military to HR.
• Succession planning and talent pipeline are current priorities.
• Finding technical talent is a major challenge in HR.
• Repetitive employee questions can be demoralizing for HR.
• Creating an FAQ page improved employee communication.
• Quarterly management training helps reduce repetitive questions.
• Operational leaders are critical partners in HR.
• AI can assist but cannot replace human interaction.
• Effective communication is key to employee engagement.
• HR professionals should lead with business impact.

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People podcast, Desiree Aprekuma shares her unexpected journey into HR, the challenges of managing remote teams, and the innovative tools and technologies shaping the future of human resources. She emphasizes the importance of creativity in problem-solving and the need for HR professionals to stay curious and adaptable in a rapidly changing environment. Desiree also discusses her aspirations for growth within her organization and offers valuable advice for fellow HR leaders.

Takeaways

• Desiree's career in HR began unexpectedly through a mentor's encouragement.
• Remote work presents unique challenges in team engagement and connection.
• Creativity and technology are essential for effective HR management.
• AI is a significant focus for improving HR processes and efficiency.
• HR tools like Workday are critical for managing people functions.
• Change management is vital when implementing new HR processes.
• Recruitment is a priority for Desiree's organization as they grow.
• Understanding both people and business metrics is crucial for HR leaders.
• Curiosity about employee stories enhances HR effectiveness.
• HR professionals should strive to have a seat at the leadership table.

Summary

In this episode of the Build by People podcast, Billy Parsons shares his extensive career journey, highlighting his experiences in various sectors including healthcare and retail. He discusses the current challenges facing HR, particularly the impact of AI on workforce dynamics and the importance of maintaining a human element in HR practices. Billy emphasizes the critical role of effective communication within organizations to ensure that leadership ideas are effectively conveyed to all employees. He concludes with valuable advice for HR professionals on problem-solving and supporting their teams.

Takeaways

• Billy Parsons has 15 years of experience in healthcare and 12 years in retail.
• AI poses both opportunities and challenges for HR.
• Maintaining a human element in HR is crucial despite AI advancements.
• Operational challenges can hinder HR effectiveness, regardless of team quality.
• Effective communication is essential for organizational success.
• Leadership ideas often fail to cascade down to frontline employees.
• HR should focus on solving problems for employees.
• Billy emphasizes the importance of team success over individual success.
• Communication structures need to be solidified for better engagement.
• HR professionals should strive to free employees to focus on their passions.

Join us as we dive into the journey of Ram Palaniappan, CEO of Earnin, who transformed a simple idea into a groundbreaking financial wellness platform. Discover how Earnin is revolutionizing payroll by providing employees with instant access to their earnings, reducing financial stress, and enhancing productivity.

Learn about the future of pay and how continuous access to wages is reshaping the workplace. Tune in for insights on financial wellness, employee empowerment, and the evolving landscape of HR technology.

Key Points We Cover

• Ram's career journey from logistics to financial services.
• The inception of Earnin from a simple idea to a platform.
• How Earnin provides instant access to earnings.
• The impact of financial stress on employee productivity.
• The future of payroll as continuous and streaming.
• Benefits of Earnin for both employees and employers.
• The role of financial wellness in employee satisfaction.
• Earnin's approach to modernizing payroll systems.
• The importance of authentic leadership in HR.
• Advice for founders in HR tech: stay close to customers.

EarnIn is an app that gives you access to the pay you've earned - when you want it. Get paid for the hours you've worked without waiting for payday.

Summary

In this episode of the Built By People podcast, Shaunta Collier-Rankin shares her unique journey into human resources, emphasizing her focus on staff retention and growth. She discusses the challenges of navigating system implementations and the importance of having responsive HR tools. Shantae also highlights her aspirations for the future of her organization and offers valuable advice for aspiring HR professionals, stressing the strategic role of HR in business.

Takeaways

• Shaunta fell into human resources unexpectedly.
• Her top priority is staff retention and growth.
• Navigating system changes is a significant challenge.
• The HR platform is essential for employee lifecycle management.
• Responsive partners are critical for HR success.
• She hopes for a fully functional system in 12 months.
• HR is a strategic partner in organizations.
• Aspiring HR professionals should pursue their passion.
• HR professionals can bridge gaps between employees and supervisors.
• You have the power to make a difference in HR.

Summary

In this episode of the Built By People podcast, Nancy Hauge shares her unconventional journey from aspiring artist to a prominent figure in corporate HR. She discusses the transformative changes she has implemented in organizations, particularly through the adoption of new technologies and the elimination of outdated performance evaluations. Nancy emphasizes the importance of adapting to the evolving workforce dynamics, especially with the decline in birth rates and the rise of AI. She concludes with powerful advice for HR leaders about finding value in their roles and not settling for less.

Takeaways

• Nancy's journey began in the arts before transitioning to HR.
• She found a welcoming environment in Silicon Valley that encouraged authenticity.
• Technological advancements have allowed for significant changes in HR practices.
• Performance evaluations are outdated and detrimental to employee morale.
• The workforce is declining, presenting challenges for HR leaders.
• AI should be viewed as a solution, not a threat.
• HR must adapt to the expectations of millennials and Gen Z.
• Leadership requires navigating unpopular decisions for long-term success.
• Finding a supportive organizational culture is crucial for HR professionals.
• Improvisation has been key to Nancy's career success.

Summary

In this episode of the Built By People Podcast, Melissa Leneis shares her extensive career journey in HR, highlighting her experiences across various industries and her evolution into a CHRO role. She discusses the importance of inclusion, community, and well-being in the workplace, and how these elements drive performance and engagement. Melissa reflects on defining moments in her career, the challenges she faced, and the legacy she hopes to leave as an HR leader. She concludes with valuable advice for future HR professionals, emphasizing the need for purpose, humanity, and a focus on talent investment.

Takeaways

• Melissa's career spans various industries including defense and technology.
• She was inspired to pursue HR after hearing a Disney HR leader speak.
• Inclusion and community are central to her HR philosophy.
• She transformed HR from transactional to enabling roles.
• Melissa's defining moment was realizing the impact of inclusion-based work.
• She introduced global family planning benefits and expanded parental leave.
• Leadership upscaling is critical for effective strategy implementation.
• Her legacy aims to make organizations and people better.
• She advises future HR leaders to lead with purpose and humanity.
• Investing in talent is essential for organizational success.

• Navigating the HR Landscape: Melissa Leneis' Journey
• The Power of Inclusion in the Workplace

• "Inclusion isn't just about representation."
• "Lead with purpose, but stay human."
• "Thank you very much for the opportunity."

Chapters

00:00 Melissa's Career Journey in HR

03:26 Defining Moments in Inclusion and Leadership

06:06 Challenges and Legacy in HR Leadership

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People Podcast, Carolina Terrazas shares her inspiring journey in HR, discussing the pivotal moments that shaped her career. From being unexpectedly thrust into a leadership role to navigating international moves, Carolina emphasizes the importance of courage, resilience, and adaptability in personal and professional growth. She highlights transformative HR initiatives and the significance of understanding unique company cultures while adapting leadership practices. Ultimately, Carolina encourages listeners to embrace curiosity and the ability to unlearn in a rapidly changing world.

Takeaways

• Carolina's career in HR began unexpectedly but became a passion.
• A key mentor saw potential in Carolina that she didn't see in herself.
• Growth occurs when we are trusted to rise to the occasion.
• Courage involves moving forward despite fear.
• Transitions in her career taught Carolina resilience and empathy.
• Preparation for change is less about knowledge and more about confidence.
• Meaningful HR changes can have lasting impacts on employees.
• Adapting practices to fit unique company cultures is crucial.
• Curiosity and adaptability are essential in today's fast-paced world.
• The ability to unlearn and relearn is vital for success.

Chapters

00:00 Carolina's Journey in HR

03:37 The Impact of Trust and Leadership

05:26 Navigating Career Transitions

07:35 Driving Change in Organizations

11:53 Adapting and Evolving in a Changing World

Summary

In this episode of the Built by People Podcast, Liezl Tolentino shares her extensive career journey in HR, emphasizing the importance of coaching, self-care, and the impact of leadership during challenging times. She discusses her sabbatical, defining moments in her career, and the challenges she faced as an HR leader, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Liezl also highlights the significance of building confidence, minimizing self-doubt, and leaving a positive legacy in the workplace.

Takeaways

• HR can be a key driver in transformation and value creation.
• Taking a sabbatical can provide clarity and energy for future endeavors.
• Healthy selfishness is crucial for personal and professional well-being.
• Building trust with employees is essential during crises.
• Self-acceptance helps minimize self-doubt and negative self-talk.
• Practicing gratitude can rewire your brain for positivity.
• Leaders should focus on their strengths to build confidence.
• The legacy of an HR leader should be about positive impact.
• HR leaders have the privilege to make a significant impact on humanity.

Chapters

00:00 Liezl's Career Journey

03:41 The Power of Coaching

06:11 The Importance of Taking a Sabbatical

07:57 Defining Moments in HR Leadership

11:17 Overcoming Challenges as an HR Leader

15:51 Building Confidence and Minimizing Self-Doubt

15:57 Legacy and Impact as an HR Leader

17:39 Parting Advice for HR Leaders

Summary

In this episode of the Built By People Podcast, Leah Buckley shares her non-traditional career journey in HR, highlighting key influences and mentorship that shaped her path. She discusses critical decisions made during acquisitions, the importance of building business partner teams, and the challenges of making unpopular decisions for long-term benefits. Leah emphasizes the significance of implementing competencies and leveling in organizations and provides advice for early career professionals on valuing their voices and ideas.

Takeaways

• Leah's career journey in HR was non-traditional and exploratory.
• Key influences include her father and mentors from Target and Amazon.
• Navigating critical decisions during acquisitions can build trust.
• Building business partner teams provides essential support for leaders.
• Unpopular decisions can lead to long-term organizational benefits.
• Implementing competencies and leveling is crucial for employee growth.
• Foundational steps are necessary for successful HR initiatives.
• Early career professionals should value their voices and ideas.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in career development.

Chapters

00:00 Leah's Non-Traditional Career Journey

06:23 Navigating Tough Decisions in HR

12:28 Advice for Emerging Leaders