The Hidden ROI of Human-Centered Leadership | EP41

Most companies talk about putting people first. Few build systems that prove it.  This episode unpacks what happens when empathy isn’t a value - it’s the infrastructure. In this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Josh Varone - CFO and EVP at Centreville Bank, longtime HR pro, board member, and unshakable believer in leading with humanity. With more than 20 years in HR and a deep resume of community impact, Josh breaks down how his L&D roots shaped a career defined by empathy & servant leadership. This isn’t your typical HR playbook - it’s a reminder that caring still scales. They unpack: Why “employer of choice” isn’t a buzzword - it’s a mission How handwritten notes and DoorDash gift cards beat policy changes in real impact The red folder lesson: why HR’s reputation depends on showing up before there’s a problem What real consultation looks like in today’s HR: less compliance, more conversation How to build an HR team that challenges you (instead of just nodding yes) Why your leadership ladder needs to be 40 feet wide - not 40 feet tall How to get on a board the right way - starting with passion, not position Whether you’re HR of one or leading a department, Josh’s journey is a blueprint for showing up with consistency, clarity, and compassion. Because great leadership? It starts with being a good human. | Connect with Us | Learn more about Centreville Bank: https://www.centrevillebank.com/ Follow Josh Varone: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-varone/ (HR lifer turned CFO – known for handwritten notes, red folder wisdom, and building cultures where people feel seen before they're managed) Follow Inside the C-Suite: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/ Subscribe on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160 Want to be on the show or know someone who might?  Contact Form – https://forms.gle/B1fVXPSV6b3x3AsS9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices