The Human Capitalist

The Human Capitalist

What is a Human Capitalist? Well, it's the new version of Human Resources. It's time to get rid of the outdated and reactive HR and replace it with Human Capitalism. I'm Trent Cotton and I'm ready to give the HR industry the punch it needs to become more focused on Human Capital versus the old stauncy HR. I’m thrilled to have you here as we dive into the future of Human Resources together. This podcast is all about empowering HR professionals to step up as proactive consultants, using AI and cutting-edge practices to manage a company’s largest expense and highest revenue producing asset—its people. As a senior HR Executive at HatchWorks AI, I get a rare glimpse into the impact technology advancement will have on the industry. This podcast is designed to share those insights with you! I’ll show you how to turn your biggest expense into a revenue-generating powerhouse by embracing change and leading with insight. If you are ready to be a rebel in the industry and unlock the true potential of human capital, this is the channel you've been looking for.

Episodes

December 28, 2025 31 mins
In this episode of the Human Capitalist, host Trent Cotton sits down with Cynthia Abbott Kerr, founder of WellPay, to break down the biggest headlines shaking up the consulting and HR worlds. We start by dissecting the recent news that McKinsey is freezing entry-level salaries and potentially abandoning their famous “pyramid” hiring model due to AI. Is artificial intelligence really the culprit, or is it just a convenient excuse f...
Mark as Played
For board members, the biggest risk isn't moving too fast with "artificial intelligence"; it's failing to ask the right questions before it's too late. This video emphasizes that AI is not a passing trend, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking and "ai leadership" for executives in 2025. It's crucial for "c suite leadership development" to understand this shift, as "ai for business" will redefine the "future of work" and...
Mark as Played
I'm thrilled to have talent strategy expert Rachel Bourne on the show. I've been tracking some alarming headlines about layoffs in 2025, and I knew Rachel was the perfect person to help me unpack what's really happening. We dive deep into the data (because we both geek out on this stuff!) and what it means for YOUR career. 🔍 **What We Cover:** **The Workforce Reality:** - 1.1 Million layoffs in 2025 - approaching COVID-era leve...
Mark as Played
I've been in the human capital space for over 20 years, and I'm ready to discuss how OpenAI could shake up the world of recruiting. This video explores the potential for an "openai jobs platform" to disrupt LinkedIn, focusing on real skills and better job matching. It's a look at the future of work, specifically how AI could impact "jobs" and "talent acquisition" as we know it. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - History Repeats: LinkedIn's Ori...
Mark as Played
AI was supposed to be the hero of the future of work. Instead? 2025 is shaping up to be a workforce disaster. Over **1.1 million** U.S. jobs have been cut this year alone, and yet, companies are doubling down on automation. But here’s the catch: **42% of firms have already abandoned most of their AI projects** due to poor results and lack of internal capability. So what happens when you’ve cut your talent and your tech fails? In...
Mark as Played
Here's what I've learned after 20+ years in HR: AI isn't just a tech play anymore. I's a complete workforce revolution, and most boards are still underestimating what's coming. I just watched Accenture's CEO lay out how the world's most powerful companies are thinking about AI, and let me tell you—it's not what most people think. It's not about scaling models. It's about scaling PEOPLE, changing how work gets done, and making hard...
Mark as Played
We are all chasing AI adoption in HR like it's a golden ticket, but let's be honest, we're failing. It isn't a tech problem; it's a people problem. HR's hesitation to adopt AI is a leadership failure, with many teams stuck in the past relying on outdated methods. But what if I told you the problem isn't AI, but the people behind AI adoption in HR? I'm Trent Cotton, a 20-year HR veteran and self-proclaimed Human Capitalist, and I'...
Mark as Played
Are you struggling to navigate the world of recruiting operations? You're not alone! In this episode of the Human Capitalist Podcast, we dive deep into the secrets of RecOps with industry expert Jeremy Lyons. Discover why your victories might be quiet, but your failures are loud—and why understanding the "why" behind Recruiting Operations can transform your career! 🎯 Video Summary: Join me as I interview Jeremy Lyons, a leading f...
Mark as Played
The gap between recruiters is widening, and what you do next could be pivotal for your career. In this eye-opening recap, we're diving into how AI is transforming recruiting and what side of the divide you truly belong to. Check out this virtual panel program discussing hiring strategies and AI's impact on the process. Hear from various speakers as they share tips and reactions on ai job interview and how to hire employees effecti...
Mark as Played
Are you struggling to make your mark in your industry? Have you ever wondered how a simple video can change everything for your career? In this episode, we uncover the transformational power of personal branding with Rhona Pierce, a true expert in leveraging video to amplify influence! In this engaging conversation, Rhona shares: ✅ The unexpected path from software engineer to personal branding guru. ✅ How she landed her first job...
Mark as Played
Are you ready to discover how AI is reshaping recruitment? You won’t believe how voice technology can revolutionize talent acquisition—let’s dive in! 🎯 Video Summary: In this groundbreaking episode of the Human Capitalist podcast, we bring you insights from Mark Chaffey, co-founder and CEO of HackerJob. Learn how they are flipping recruitment on its head, transforming the way companies connect with tech talent. Here’s what we’r...
Mark as Played
The future hinges on more than tech; it requires strong leadership. Companies need the right people driving digital transformation and successfully navigating AI adoption. To foster organizational growth, focus on leadership skills and embrace transformative tech through leadership innovation. In this video I break down the 5 AI leadership roles you need in your organization today. 🕰️ Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction: The AI Cha...
Mark as Played
Are you aware that nearly half of your workforce feels overwhelmed by AI? It's creating unspoken fatigue that could hurt your company's culture! In this video, I reveal how to turn this daunting situation into a powerful opportunity for growth. 🎯 Video Summary: AI was promised to make our work lives easier and smarter, yet the reality is grim. Employees are feeling the strain, with many viewing AI learning as a second job. What d...
Mark as Played
Are you struggling to make data-driven decisions in HR? Are you tired of hearing AI in HR? You're not alone, and today, we’re diving into the bold frontier where AI meets human resources! In this episode of the Human Capitalist podcast, I'm thrilled to have Laura Close, a visionary in AI-driven HR technology, sharing her insights on harnessing data for personalized employee experiences and the democratization of insights that HR te...
Mark as Played
Are you a catalyst feeling overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change? It's time to understand your unique power! In this video, Tracey Lovejoy and Shannon Lucas dive deep into their groundbreaking book, “Move Fast, Break Shit,” revealing critical insights for catalysts navigating the complexities of today’s workplace. Join me as I chat with two incredible minds who’ve dedicated their careers to empowering catalysts like you. We’ll c...
Mark as Played
Are you ready to explore the untapped potential of AI in HR in HR? Join us as Chandra Sanders, founder of Heels and Hustle, uncovers how AI can transform workplaces and why women must lead the charge in this revolution! In my conversation, HR expert Chandra Sanders takes us on a journey through her remarkable career and the evolving landscape of Human Capital. Discover why AI is more than just a buzzword—it’s a tool for empowermen...
Mark as Played
Are you ready to unlock the secret to transforming Human Resources with AI? Join us as we dive deep into the future of HR with Haris Ikram, CEO of Candor IQ, who reveals how to shift from a tactical to a strategic approach in managing your workforce! In this engaging episode, we explore the evolution of HR and the pivotal role AI plays in shaping its future. Haris Ikram shares his unique journey and insights into how companies can...
Mark as Played
Are you feeling overwhelmed in a rapidly changing HR landscape? Discover how one bold leader saved $95 million in costs and why having a seat at the table is more crucial today than ever! If you want to learn how to navigate the complexities of HR and lead with confidence, keep watching! I have been so excited about this episode featuring Maria Scarangella, an HR powerhouse who has transformed human capital strategies at major org...
Mark as Played
Are you curious about how AI is transforming human resources and what it means for the future of work? Join me as I dive deep with HR expert John Baldino into the heart of this evolving landscape. You won’t believe the insights we discuss on adapting to technology while fostering a culture of care! In this vibrant episode, we explore: ✅ The reality of AI in HR and how it can elevate, not replace, human touch. ✅ The importance of e...
Mark as Played
Are you struggling to navigate change in your organization, especially with the rise of AI? You're not alone—70% of transformations fail. But in this video, we’ll uncover the secrets to effectively managing change and transforming your team! In this episode of the Human Capitalist Podcast, we dive deep into the powerful insights from change expert Michael Lopez. Get ready to explore: ✅ The staggering failure rates of transformatio...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    The Burden

    The Burden is a documentary series that takes listeners into the hidden places where justice is done (and undone). It dives deep into the lives of heroes and villains. And it focuses a spotlight on those who triumph even when the odds are against them. Season 5 - The Burden: Death & Deceit in Alliance On April Fools Day 1999, 26-year-old Yvonne Layne was found murdered in her Alliance, Ohio home. David Thorne, her ex-boyfriend and father of one of her children, was instantly a suspect. Another young man admitted to the murder, and David breathed a sigh of relief, until the confessed murderer fingered David; “He paid me to do it.” David was sentenced to life without parole. Two decades later, Pulitzer winner and podcast host, Maggie Freleng (Bone Valley Season 3: Graves County, Wrongful Conviction, Suave) launched a “live” investigation into David's conviction alongside Jason Baldwin (himself wrongfully convicted as a member of the West Memphis Three). Maggie had come to believe that the entire investigation of David was botched by the tiny local police department, or worse, covered up the real killer. Was Maggie correct? Was David’s claim of innocence credible? In Death and Deceit in Alliance, Maggie recounts the case that launched her career, and ultimately, “broke” her.” The results will shock the listener and reduce Maggie to tears and self-doubt. This is not your typical wrongful conviction story. In fact, it turns the genre on its head. It asks the question: What if our champions are foolish? Season 4 - The Burden: Get the Money and Run “Trying to murder my father, this was the thing that put me on the path.” That’s Joe Loya and that path was bank robbery. Bank, bank, bank, bank, bank. In season 4 of The Burden: Get the Money and Run, we hear from Joe who was once the most prolific bank robber in Southern California, and beyond. He used disguises, body doubles, proxies. He leaped over counters, grabbed the money and ran. Even as the FBI was closing in. It was a showdown between a daring bank robber, and a patient FBI agent. Joe was no ordinary bank robber. He was bright, articulate, charismatic, and driven by a dark rage that he summoned up at will. In seven episodes, Joe tells all: the what, the how… and the why. Including why he tried to murder his father. Season 3 - The Burden: Avenger Miriam Lewin is one of Argentina’s leading journalists today. At 19 years old, she was kidnapped off the streets of Buenos Aires for her political activism and thrown into a concentration camp. Thousands of her fellow inmates were executed, tossed alive from a cargo plane into the ocean. Miriam, along with a handful of others, will survive the camp. Then as a journalist, she will wage a decades long campaign to bring her tormentors to justice. Avenger is about one woman’s triumphant battle against unbelievable odds to survive torture, claim justice for the crimes done against her and others like her, and change the future of her country. Season 2 - The Burden: Empire on Blood Empire on Blood is set in the Bronx, NY, in the early 90s, when two young drug dealers ruled an intersection known as “The Corner on Blood.” The boss, Calvin Buari, lived large. He and a protege swore they would build an empire on blood. Then the relationship frayed and the protege accused Calvin of a double homicide which he claimed he didn’t do. But did he? Award-winning journalist Steve Fishman spent seven years to answer that question. This is the story of one man’s last chance to overturn his life sentence. He may prevail, but someone’s gotta pay. The Burden: Empire on Blood is the director’s cut of the true crime classic which reached #1 on the charts when it was first released half a dozen years ago. Season 1 - The Burden In the 1990s, Detective Louis N. Scarcella was legendary. In a city overrun by violent crime, he cracked the toughest cases and put away the worst criminals. “The Hulk” was his nickname. Then the story changed. Scarcella ran into a group of convicted murderers who all say they are innocent. They turned themselves into jailhouse-lawyers and in prison founded a lway firm. When they realized Scarcella helped put many of them away, they set their sights on taking him down. And with the help of a NY Times reporter they have a chance. For years, Scarcella insisted he did nothing wrong. But that’s all he’d say. Until we tracked Scarcella to a sauna in a Russian bathhouse, where he started to talk..and talk and talk. “The guilty have gone free,” he whispered. And then agreed to take us into the belly of the beast. Welcome to The Burden.

    SmartLess

    "SmartLess" with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, & Will Arnett is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn about shared experiences through thoughtful dialogue and organic hilarity. A nice surprise: in each episode of SmartLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What ensues is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with laughter and newfound knowledge to feed the SmartLess mind. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of SmartLess ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2026 iHeartMedia, Inc.