Hacking HR

Join us for another reflection with Matt Burns.Matt is on a mission to transform how organizations and leaders adapt, innovate, and thrive in an AI-powered world. As the founder and CEO of Atlas Copilot, he leads a team building next-generation tools that help businesses supercharge decision-making, streamline workflows, and upskill employees—unlocking new levels of efficiency and impact.With a career that spans roles as an HR executive, strategy consultant, technology co-founder, and industry analyst, Matt’s work has always centered around one goal: helping organizations continuously improve through thoughtful, human-centered technology. His leadership has earned industry accolades, including “Most Innovative Use of HR Technology” in 2017 and “Canadian HR Team of the Year” in 2018.He’s also the host of AI in HR, a podcast that explores how leaders are navigating the evolving world of work with AI. With over 1.6 million listeners across the business world, the show democratizes knowledge, amplifies innovative solutions, and connects forward-thinking leaders tackling today’s most pressing workplace challenges.A true believer in the power of immersive technologies, Matt was a founding organizer of the Global HR Summit—the first enterprise conference presented fully in virtual reality. The groundbreaking event brought together 60 speakers and more than 800 attendees over three days, redefining what digital collaboration can look like.Whether through AI, VR, or cutting-edge enterprise solutions, Matt’s work is grounded in a singular purpose: to make work not just more efficient—but more human, more connected, and more meaningful.

Join us for a conversation with Ben Keene—entrepreneur, tribe builder, and catalyst for purposeful change.Ben has spent the past two decades turning ideas into impact—from building eco-villages in Fiji to co-founding Rebel Book Club and helping thousands launch meaningful careers and climate startups. With a unique blend of startup grit, global perspective, and human-first leadership, he’s redefining what it means to lead in the modern world: not with control, but with connection.Ben’s work lives at the intersection of community, innovation, and impact. Whether he's accelerating funding for climate solutions through Raaise, exploring the future of AI for good with Superfly AI, or bringing people together through Rebel Book Club, his mission is clear: help people build what matters, together.What sets Ben apart? He doesn’t just speak about leadership—he lives it. As an in-demand speaker, workshop host, and event MC, he’s energized audiences from London Tech Week to the Blue Earth Summit, earning praise from leaders like Richard Branson and Dame Jo Williams. His signature talks—on tribe building, AI for impact, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship—leave audiences not just inspired, but ready to act.Ben’s been called “the best guest speaker we’ve ever had,” and it’s no surprise. He brings people together across cultures, causes, and continents, reminding us that the best leaders don’t just manage—they build tribes that move the world forward.If you’re looking to connect deeper, lead smarter, and start something that truly matters—Ben Keene is the guide you’ve been looking for.

Join us for another reflection with ⁠⁠⁠Matt Burns⁠⁠⁠.Matt Burns is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming the way HR professionals and business leaders work through the power of generative AI. As the driving force behind Atlas Copilot, he leads a talented team focused on developing next-generation business technologies that enhance decision-making, streamline workflows, and upskill employees in real time.With a deep passion for innovation, Matt has spent his career helping organizations adapt, transform, and achieve continuous improvement through technology. His leadership has earned industry recognition, including awards for “Most Innovative Use of HR Technology” in 2017 and "Canadian HR Team of the Year" in 2018.Beyond his work at Atlas Copilot, Matt is the host of Thinking Inside the Box, a podcast where he engages with executives, entrepreneurs, and academics to explore cutting-edge solutions to workplace challenges—garnering an audience of over 40,000 monthly listeners.A believer in the potential of immersive technologies, Matt co-founded the Global HR Summit, the world’s first enterprise conference presented in virtual reality, bringing together 60 global speakers and 800 attendees in a groundbreaking three-day event. Through his work, he continues to champion the intersection of technology and human experience, making work more efficient, impactful, and human-centered.

Join us for a conversation with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea Derler⁠⁠⁠.⁠Andrea Derler is reshaping how we understand the future of work, blending deep human insight with cutting-edge AI research. As Principal of Research and Value at Visier, Andrea is a pioneering Workforce AI expert at the forefront of people analytics and HR transformation. Her mission? To uncover how data and analytics are changing the way organizations lead, grow, and evolve—and to make sure people remain at the heart of it all.With over 15 years of experience as a human capital analyst, organizational researcher, and leadership advisor, Andrea brings a rare fusion of science, strategy, and storytelling to her work. Her research spans leadership development, talent management, compensation strategy, and the organizational shifts that define the modern workplace. She’s known for turning complex data into clear, actionable insight—fueling smarter decisions for companies across the globe.Andrea’s thought leadership is featured in top-tier outlets including Harvard Business Review, The Washington Post, Forbes, CNBC, and FastCompany. She regularly speaks and teaches at universities and business schools in the U.S., Germany, and Austria, and serves on the boards of Swiss HR Analytics and the Society of People Analytics. Whether she’s publishing, speaking, or advising, Andrea brings a global lens and a grounded voice to the evolving world of work.If you care about the intersection of data, people, and purpose—and want to understand how AI is reshaping the workforce—Andrea is the expert you want to hear from.

Join us for an interview with ⁠⁠Dominic Vogel⁠.⁠Dominic Vogel is a dynamic force for good, blending cybersecurity expertise with an infectious passion for human connection and positivity. As the founder of Cyber.SC, Dominic helps small and midsize organizations take control of their cyber risk with pragmatic, strategic, and actionable guidance. His high-impact coaching sessions and consulting work have empowered countless professionals to unlock their full potential—both personally and professionally.Known for his signature energy and alliteration-laced encouragement, Dominic is more than a cybersecurity expert—he’s a professional hype man, dedicated to making the world a kinder, more connected place. Whether speaking on stage about life, leadership, or digital threats, Dominic delivers inspiring, entertaining, and deeply human talks that resonate far beyond the tech world.A proud father, husband, and loyal friend, Dominic lives his life with purpose and presence, championing kindness in everything he does. When he’s not securing networks or energizing audiences, you might find him celebrating his record as a 328-time “LinkedIn Comment of the Day” winner—an honor that perfectly captures his blend of humor, heart, and community spirit.

Join us for a reflection with ⁠Matt Burns⁠.Matt Burns is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming the way HR professionals and business leaders work through the power of generative AI. As the driving force behind Atlas Copilot, he leads a talented team focused on developing next-generation business technologies that enhance decision-making, streamline workflows, and upskill employees in real time.With a deep passion for innovation, Matt has spent his career helping organizations adapt, transform, and achieve continuous improvement through technology. His leadership has earned industry recognition, including awards for “Most Innovative Use of HR Technology” in 2017 and "Canadian HR Team of the Year" in 2018.Beyond his work at Atlas Copilot, Matt is the host of Thinking Inside the Box, a podcast where he engages with executives, entrepreneurs, and academics to explore cutting-edge solutions to workplace challenges—garnering an audience of over 40,000 monthly listeners.A believer in the potential of immersive technologies, Matt co-founded the Global HR Summit, the world’s first enterprise conference presented in virtual reality, bringing together 60 global speakers and 800 attendees in a groundbreaking three-day event. Through his work, he continues to champion the intersection of technology and human experience, making work more efficient, impactful, and human-centered.

Join us for an interview with ⁠Julia Anas⁠.Julia Anas is a people-first leader dedicated to shaping exceptional workplace experiences and empowering employees to thrive. As Chief People Officer at Qualtrics, she leads the company’s human capital strategy, fostering a culture of growth, engagement, and impact for over 5,000 employees worldwide.With a passion for creating opportunities that support both professional and personal development, Julia believes in designing workplaces where people don’t just work—they flourish. Her leadership philosophy centers on the idea that work should enable a fulfilling life, not just define it.A proud graduate of Southern Methodist University, Julia is an active member of the SHRM Executive Network and serves on the Women in Leadership Advisory Council at SMU. Through her work, she continues to champion people-first strategies that drive business success, elevate employee experiences, and shape the future of work.

Join us for an interview with ⁠Stella Lee⁠.Stella Lee is a leading expert in e-learning and educational technology, with over 20 years of experience shaping the future of digital learning. As the director of Paradox Learning, she consults with organizations across government, education, corporate, and non-profit sectors to design and evaluate innovative learning solutions that leverage technology, data, and AI-driven strategies.Her work bridges the gap between cutting-edge learning technology and practical application, helping organizations develop data-driven, adaptive, and personalized learning experiences. A sought-after speaker, writer, and advisor, Stella has shared her expertise at global institutions such as Google, the United Nations, and the Open University. Her insights on learning analytics, AI in education, and edtech trends have been featured in industry-leading publications, podcasts, and conferences.Beyond consulting, Stella plays an active role in mentoring and advising startups, non-profits, and academic institutions, driving forward initiatives in edtech and AI. Her dedication to advancing the field of learning and development positions her as a thought leader, empowering organizations and individuals to navigate the evolving landscape of education and technology.

Join us for an interview withDJ Campbell.DJ is a seasoned healthcare executive specializing in people strategy, currently leading the Bismarck market for Sanford Health. Overseeing nearly 3,800 team members and supported by a skilled team of HR professionals, DJ plays a pivotal role on the market executive team while also shaping enterprise-wide strategy as a member of Sanford Health’s HR executive team, influencing the experience and development of nearly 50,000 employees across the organization.With deep expertise in workforce development, employee experience, human capital strategy, and organizational effectiveness, DJ is committed to driving impactful change in both the healthcare industry and the broader Bismarck-Mandan community. Beyond corporate leadership, DJ serves on several boards, including Make-A-Wish North Dakota, the North Dakota Workforce Development Council, the TrainND Advisory Board, and the State Board of Higher Education, reinforcing a dedication to community growth and workforce innovation.A passionate advocate for advancing the HR profession, DJ is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the Society for Diversity, and the SHRM Executive Network, working to foster inclusive and dynamic workplaces. Through a strategic and people-first approach, DJ continues to shape the future of healthcare workforce development and organizational excellence.

Join us on an interview with ⁠Elizabeth Adams⁠. Elizabeth is the CEO of EMA Advisory Services, where she leads the organization in helping companies excel in workforce enablement and readiness in the AI field. Her advisory and consultancy expertise, rooted in Responsible AI principles, has been instrumental in delivering transformative results for leading organizations by skillfully integrating research, business, technology, policy, and societal impact. A key part of her leadership is the "Leadership of Responsible AI" framework, a cornerstone of EMA Advisory Services' workforce strategy and a transformative resource for guiding organizations through AI adoption. With a strong commitment to education, Elizabeth has empowered over 7,000 leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an AI-driven world. Her training initiatives have achieved an impressive 80% participation rate across various organizations, fostering meaningful employee engagement throughout the AI lifecycle. Elizabeth’s dedication to Responsible AI and workforce transformation continues to position her as a trusted leader in navigating the complexities of the evolving AI landscape.

Join us on an interview with Julius Probst. Julius is a European labor economist at Appcast, where he produces insights on macroeconomic and labor market trends. As a key contributor to Recruitonomics, Appcast's labor market blog, Julius collaborates with Andrew Flowers to deliver cutting-edge analysis on the ever-evolving dynamics of global labor markets. Before joining Appcast, Julius worked as an application specialist and economist at Macrobond Financial, a leading macroeconomic data engine provider. In October 2019, he earned a PhD in Economic History from Lund University, with a research focus on long-run economic growth and empirical macroeconomic history. His academic journey began with a deep passion for Macroeconomics—especially monetary economics—cultivated during his Bachelor’s and Master’s studies. During the final year of his PhD, Julius gained valuable experience working at the European Central Bank (ECB) for six months, contributing to monetary policy research. Outside of his professional work, he shares his thoughts on topics such as macroeconomic history and monetary policy on his blog, Macrothoughts. He has also written several thought-provoking pieces on economics for the popular science journal "The Conversation." With a strong foundation in macroeconomic analysis and a dedication to uncovering actionable insights about labor markets, Julius Probst is passionate about bridging the gap between academic research and practical economic solutions.

Join us on an interview with ⁠⁠Jonathan Kestenbaum. Jonathan is a lawyer by education and entrepreneur by trade, He is passionate about pioneering initiatives that will change the way we live. He has dedicated his career to driving the use of technology that not only discovers and harnesses exceptional talent but also transforms and redefines the very nature of work. From building and successfully exiting a talent technology company to spearheading the leading research firm in the space, his path has been marked by a relentless drive to innovate. His tenure at an RPO, combining people, process, and technology to elevate service delivery, further cemented his commitment to this cause.Beyond founding and running companies, he has also been an active investor in the talent technology sector. His contributions go beyond financial investments; he provides strategic guidance, serve on boards, and offer advisory support. These endeavors have catalyzed transactions worth over a billion dollars, highlighting the powerful impact of strategic investments.

Join us on an interview with Caitlin Krause. Caitlin is an author, keynote speaker, and VR experience designer whose work bridges mindfulness, storytelling, and immersive technology to foster meaningful human connections. Curiosity-driven and research-oriented, Caitlin integrates creativity, neuroscience, design thinking, and technology to promote empathy, awareness, and collaboration on a global scale. As the founder of MindWise, Caitlin designs experiences that enhance emotional intelligence, adaptive resilience, and innovative ways to express human ingenuity. She is the author of Mindful by Design (2019), which explores curiosity-driven learning, innovation, and emotional intelligence, and Designing Wonder: Leading Transformative Experiences in VR (2020) Caitlin's visionary approach inspires others to connect and thrive in both physical and virtual worlds.