No Data, No Decisions: Dani Woods on Building Trust in HR Data & Driving Strategy

What do executives really want from HR data — and how do you earn their trust?

In this episode of Pulse, Logan talks with Dani Woods, an experienced HR leader, people strategist, and founder of Lotus Welle. Dani shares what it takes to build credibility in high-pressure environments, especially when the data is messy, the systems are disconnected, and the expectations are high.

If you’ve ever been caught flat-footed in a board meeting, questioned on a report you didn’t build, or tasked with making HR strategic “yesterday” — this one’s for you.

You’ll learn:

• How to build trust with execs — even when the data isn’t perfect

• The real metrics leaders scan for (hint: it’s always about risk)

• What to do in your first 90 days with messy people data

• What HR pros need to ask during M&A

• Why AI won’t replace HR, but will reshape it

• The mindset shift from data executor to strategic partner

Whether you’re in a PE-backed org, planning for M&A, or reporting to the board — this is a masterclass in becoming an HR strategist.

[00:00] - Intro: From HR Assistant to Global Director by 27  

[01:37] - Building Trust in HR Data — One Number at a Time  

[04:46] - You Will Get Challenged — Here’s How to Respond  

[06:19] - Why Your HR Data Might Be Lying to You  

[10:21] - The Metrics That Matter to the C-Suite  

[12:23] - Inheriting a Data Mess? Start Here.  

[13:56] - From Task-Doers to System Architects  

[20:00] - The Questions HR Needs to Ask in Every Acquisition  

[22:16] - No Data, No Decisions — Dani’s Final Advice  

Connect with Dani on LinkedIn or her Website.

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