How can HR build truly inclusive cultures for neurodiverse talent—beyond basic accommodations? Christine welcomes Mike Lamm, Chief People Officer at RethinkFirst, to unpack practical ways organizations can support neurodivergent employees and the caregivers who stand beside them. From structured hiring to manager playbooks and on-demand behavioral support, Mike shows how neuro-affirming practices lift performance, retention, and wellbeing.

“It’s not about accommodating—it's about investing to unlock everyone’s potential.”

This conversation covers:

• What neurodiversity means (origin, scope) and why ~20% of today’s workforce is directly affected
• Concrete hiring tactics: skills-based assessments, predictable interview steps, clear expectations
• Manager playbooks: direct, observable feedback; aligning communication and work
• A forward vision: connecting neurodiversity training + personalized support to measurable business outcomes

How can employers support women through hormonal transitions without losing top talent? Christine welcomes Brianne Flaherty, Health Coach at LifeSpeak, to spotlight the mental-health side of perimenopause, menopause, and postpartum—and how stigma, silence, and burnout push women out at the peak of their careers. From manager training to peer networks and flexible policies, this episode turns awareness into action.

“When we separate who we are from the symptoms we’re experiencing, we create space to ask: what do I need—and how can work support it?”

This conversation covers:

• The hidden mental load of hormonal shifts and why women often overcompensate until they crash
• The real cost of doing nothing and how leadership, training, and flexibility change outcomes
• A holistic approach that normalizes women’s health as a core element of workplace wellbeing

Christine Muldoon speaks with executive coach Kristen Sharkey, founder of Emboldify, about how improv techniques can reshape leadership development and team culture. From embracing failure to cultivating presence, Kristen shares how applying principles from improv theater helps leaders build trust, psychological safety, and resilience—especially in high-pressure environments.

"Perfectionism is exhausting. But when leaders model adaptability and authenticity, teams start to thrive."

This episode covers:

• How improv training helps leaders become more self-aware and present
• Ways to reduce burnout and build trust through emotional intelligence
• Small, low-stakes team exercises to foster connection and flexibility