Human In The Roomhttps://www.humanintheroombook.com/
Hosted by Betsy Gardner, this podcast explores the conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics that shape modern careers. Each episode breaks down the human side of leadership development, career growth, workplace culture, people strategy, communication, and the future of work in the age of AI.

Designed for emerging leaders, ambitious professionals, and anyone navigating intergenerational workplaces, Human in the Room offers practical insights on managing up, building trust, developing soft skills, leading with judgment, and growing your influence at work.

Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, working in human resources, business development, or simply trying to become more effective at work, this podcast helps you build the credibility and human-centered leadership skills that matter most.

Subscribe for more episodes on leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Learn more at humanintheroombook.com and betsygardner.com]]>enBusinessBetsy Gardnerhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/628aa0a2501fac1741d1eb3f05239219.jpgHuman In The Roomhttps://www.humanintheroombook.com/Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:03:04 +0000Betsy GardnerBetsy Gardnercarolina@hihellolabs.comThe Human in the Room podcast is for people figuring out how work actually works. Hosted by Betsy Gardner, this podcast explores the conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics that shape modern careers. Each episode breaks down the human side...
Hosted by Betsy Gardner, this podcast explores the conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics that shape modern careers. Each episode breaks down the human side of leadership development, career growth, workplace culture, people strategy, communication, and the future of work in the age of AI.

Designed for emerging leaders, ambitious professionals, and anyone navigating intergenerational workplaces, Human in the Room offers practical insights on managing up, building trust, developing soft skills, leading with judgment, and growing your influence at work.

Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, working in human resources, business development, or simply trying to become more effective at work, this podcast helps you build the credibility and human-centered leadership skills that matter most.

Subscribe for more episodes on leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Learn more at humanintheroombook.com and betsygardner.com]]>falseepisodic6. The Future of Creativity Is More Human Than Everhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/6-the-future-of-creativity-is-more-human-than-ever--73467623
In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with award-winning advertising executive, copywriter, and creative director Geoff Rogers for a fascinating conversation about creativity, branding, storytelling, trust, leadership, and the future of communication in the age of artificial intelligence.

Geoff has spent decades helping iconic brands—including Nike and campaigns featuring Tiger Woods and Lionel Messi—craft messaging that cuts through noise and creates lasting emotional connection. In this conversation, he explains why AI may be able to generate words, but it still struggles to create what truly matters: presence, perspective, authenticity, and trust.

Together they explore why consumers increasingly trust people over brands, how the best advertising creates "stopping power," why imperfections often make creative work stronger, and how every professional—not just marketers—must learn to communicate with greater humanity in an AI-powered world.

If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, marketer, creator, executive, or simply trying to remain relevant in a rapidly changing workplace, this conversation offers practical insights into how human connection remains the most valuable skill of all.

Time Stamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:18) How Storytelling Shapes Great Communicators
(05:42) Why Authentic Stories Build Trust
(09:15) The "Thingness" That AI Can't Replicate
(12:48) Why Brands Struggle to Earn Trust Today
(16:34) The Secret Behind Great Copywriting & "Stopping Power"
(20:11) Tiger Woods, Nike & the Art of Saying More with Less
(24:07) Why Your Perspective Is Your Greatest Competitive Advantage
(28:10) AI, Creativity & The Cost of Endless Efficiency
(32:05) How Great Ideas Are Actually Created
(36:08) Why Human Presence Is Becoming a Superpower
(39:22) Final Advice: Make Yourself Unforgettable


-----------------------------------

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter
Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website
Learn more at humanintheroombook.com

Connect with our guest Geoff at:
Website: https://geoffrogers.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-rogers-6861997/

Follow Human in the Room
Follow Betsy Gardner
Buy the Book
Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt 

Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization

Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:
  • Leadership development training
  • Keynotes and speaking engagements
  • Team workshops and assessments
Topics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership.

Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com 

Credits
Hosted by Betsy Gardner
Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73467623Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:00:04 +0000Betsy GardnerCan AI replace human creativity? Or is authentic human connection becoming more valuable than ever? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with award-winning advertising executive, copywriter, and creative director...
In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with award-winning advertising executive, copywriter, and creative director Geoff Rogers for a fascinating conversation about creativity, branding, storytelling, trust, leadership, and the future of communication in the age of artificial intelligence.

Geoff has spent decades helping iconic brands—including Nike and campaigns featuring Tiger Woods and Lionel Messi—craft messaging that cuts through noise and creates lasting emotional connection. In this conversation, he explains why AI may be able to generate words, but it still struggles to create what truly matters: presence, perspective, authenticity, and trust.

Together they explore why consumers increasingly trust people over brands, how the best advertising creates "stopping power," why imperfections often make creative work stronger, and how every professional—not just marketers—must learn to communicate with greater humanity in an AI-powered world.

If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, marketer, creator, executive, or simply trying to remain relevant in a rapidly changing workplace, this conversation offers practical insights into how human connection remains the most valuable skill of all.

Time Stamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:18) How Storytelling Shapes Great Communicators
(05:42) Why Authentic Stories Build Trust
(09:15) The "Thingness" That AI Can't Replicate
(12:48) Why Brands Struggle to Earn Trust Today
(16:34) The Secret Behind Great Copywriting & "Stopping Power"
(20:11) Tiger Woods, Nike & the Art of Saying More with Less
(24:07) Why Your Perspective Is Your Greatest Competitive Advantage
(28:10) AI, Creativity & The Cost of Endless Efficiency
(32:05) How Great Ideas Are Actually Created
(36:08) Why Human Presence Is Becoming a Superpower
(39:22) Final Advice: Make Yourself Unforgettable


-----------------------------------

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter
Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website
Learn more at humanintheroombook.com

Connect with our guest Geoff at:
Website: https://geoffrogers.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-rogers-6861997/

Follow Human in the Room
Follow Betsy Gardner
Buy the Book2473falsefull5. CEO Reacts to LinkedIn Cringe (What Actually Builds Credibility)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/5-ceo-reacts-to-linkedin-cringe-what-actually-builds-credibility--73139585Why do so many LinkedIn messages get ignored?

If you've ever wondered why your networking messages, sales outreach, or cold DMs aren't getting responses, this episode explains exactly why.

In this Trust Lab episode of Human in the Room, executive leadership expert Betsy Gardner and co-host Addison Cursey analyze real LinkedIn messages sent to Betsy and explain the hidden communication mistakes that instantly reduce trust.

Rather than simply saying "don't do this," they break down each example through the Human in the Room Framework:  Presence, Judgment, Trust.

You'll learn why personalization matters more than automation, why AI can't replace human curiosity, and how executives evaluate your communication long before they ever reply.

Whether you're in sales, business development, recruiting, leadership, marketing, entrepreneurship, or building your personal brand, these communication lessons apply far beyond LinkedIn.

Topics Covered:
• LinkedIn networking mistakes
• Cold outreach best practices
• AI-generated messaging
• Business development
• Executive communication
• Building trust online
• Personal branding
• Sales psychology
• Professional networking
• Digital presence
• Leadership communication
• Human-centered marketing

If you're looking to improve your professional communication, increase reply rates, build stronger relationships, and become someone people genuinely want to work with, this episode is for you.

Time Stamps:
(00:00) Why Most LinkedIn Messages Get Ignored
(02:18) The Human in the Room Framework
(05:01) LinkedIn Example #1: Selling Without Research
(08:27) Why Personalization Builds Trust
(11:34) AI Outreach Gone Wrong
(14:42) How to Actually Add Value First
(17:28) The Problem with Generic Sales Messages
(20:36) Keyword Stuffing & Marketing Mistakes
(23:18) Why Context Matters in Communication
(26:07) Better Ways to Build Professional Relationships
(29:18) Small Details That Earn Trust
(31:54) Final Takeaways: Be the Human in the Room

-----------------------------------

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter
Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website
Learn more at humanintheroombook.com

Follow Human in the Room
Follow Betsy Gardner
Buy the Book
Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt 

Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization

Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:
  • Leadership development training
  • Keynotes and speaking engagements
  • Team workshops and assessments
Topics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership.

Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com 

Credits
Hosted by Betsy Gardner
Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73139585Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:00:03 +0000Betsy GardnerWhy do so many LinkedIn messages get ignored? If you've ever wondered why your networking messages, sales outreach, or cold DMs aren't getting responses, this episode explains exactly why. In this Trust Lab episode of Human in the Room, executive...Why do so many LinkedIn messages get ignored?

If you've ever wondered why your networking messages, sales outreach, or cold DMs aren't getting responses, this episode explains exactly why.

In this Trust Lab episode of Human in the Room, executive leadership expert Betsy Gardner and co-host Addison Cursey analyze real LinkedIn messages sent to Betsy and explain the hidden communication mistakes that instantly reduce trust.

Rather than simply saying "don't do this," they break down each example through the Human in the Room Framework:  Presence, Judgment, Trust.

You'll learn why personalization matters more than automation, why AI can't replace human curiosity, and how executives evaluate your communication long before they ever reply.

Whether you're in sales, business development, recruiting, leadership, marketing, entrepreneurship, or building your personal brand, these communication lessons apply far beyond LinkedIn.

Topics Covered:
• LinkedIn networking mistakes
• Cold outreach best practices
• AI-generated messaging
• Business development
• Executive communication
• Building trust online
• Personal branding
• Sales psychology
• Professional networking
• Digital presence
• Leadership communication
• Human-centered marketing

If you're looking to improve your professional communication, increase reply rates, build stronger relationships, and become someone people genuinely want to work with, this episode is for you.

Time Stamps:
(00:00) Why Most LinkedIn Messages Get Ignored
(02:18) The Human in the Room Framework
(05:01) LinkedIn Example #1: Selling Without Research
(08:27) Why Personalization Builds Trust
(11:34) AI Outreach Gone Wrong
(14:42) How to Actually Add Value First
(17:28) The Problem with Generic Sales Messages
(20:36) Keyword Stuffing & Marketing Mistakes
(23:18) Why Context Matters in Communication
(26:07) Better Ways to Build Professional Relationships
(29:18) Small Details That Earn Trust
(31:54) Final Takeaways: Be the Human in the Room

-----------------------------------

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter
Join the Human in the Room newsletter: https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website
Learn more at humanintheroombook.com

Follow Human in the Room
Follow Betsy Gardner
Buy the Book
Get Human in the Room by Betsy...]]>2037falsefull4. How Great Leaders Make Better Decisions | Judgment, Trust & Leadership with Katie Yeutterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/4-how-great-leaders-make-better-decisions-judgment-trust-leadership-with-katie-yeutter--72906751How do great leaders make better decisions when there isn't a perfect answer?

In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Katie Yeutter, Managing Director of the Rick Goings Institute for Leadership Excellence at Rollins College, to explore leadership decision-making, judgment, trust, resilience, and the human skills leaders need to thrive in today's rapidly changing workplace.

The Rick Goings Institute was established through the generosity of former Tupperware CEO Rick Goings to prepare principled leaders who can navigate complexity with confidence, character, and sound judgment. Before joining Rollins College, Katie was the COO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, where she advanced statewide leadership initiatives and worked alongside executives, business leaders, and policymakers to strengthen Florida's future workforce.

Katie is also a seven-time Ironman finisher and English Channel swimmer. Her experience pushing through uncertainty, setbacks, and high-pressure environments has shaped the same leadership principles she now teaches to executives, organizations, and emerging leaders.

In this conversation, you'll learn:
  • How great leaders make difficult decisions with incomplete information
  • Why judgment may be the most important leadership skill
  • How trust is built before results are visible
  • What resilience really looks like under pressure
  • How self-awareness and situational awareness improve leadership
  • Knowing when to persevere and when to change course
  • Why traditional leadership training often falls short
  • How the Rick Goings Institute is developing the next generation of leaders
  • Why human-centered leadership is becoming a competitive advantage in the age of AI
Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, HR leader, manager, business owner, or emerging leader, this conversation offers practical leadership insights you can apply immediately.

Time Stamps:

(00:00) Why Leadership Begins With Better Decisions
(03:14) The Midwest Farm Girl Behind Katie Uter’s Drive
(06:42) What the English Channel Teaches About Pressure
(10:18) Building Trust Before the Vision Exists
(13:42) How Leaders Earn a Seat at the Table
(17:08) Why Trust in Yourself Changes Everything
(20:35) The Leadership Skill of Judgment Under Pressure
(24:06) Knowing When to Keep Going vs. When to Quit
(27:41) Can Leadership Judgment Actually Be Taught?
(31:04) Why Case Studies Aren’t Enough for Modern Leaders
(34:12) How Great Leaders Create the Conditions for Others to Thrive
(38:02) The One Leadership Rep Katie Uter Never Skips

Connect with Katie Yeutter
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieyeutter/ 

The Rick Goings Institute
Website: https://rgi.rollins.edu/
Rollins College: https://www.rollins.edu/

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter

Join the Human in the Room newsletter:
https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website

Learn more at humanintheroombook.comFollow Human in the RoomFollow Betsy GardnerBuy the Book

Get Human in the Room by Betsy Gardner: https://bit.ly/4uADfVt 

Bring Human in the Room to Your Organization

Human in the Room helps organizations build stronger leaders, healthier workplace cultures, and more effective teams through:
  • Leadership development training
  • Keynotes and speaking engagements
  • Team workshops and assessments
Topics include communication, trust, managing up, intergenerational workplaces, AI and human skills, and human-centered leadership.

Bring Betsy Gardner to your organization by contacting info@humanintheroombook.com 

Credits
Hosted by Betsy Gardner
Produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72906751Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:00:02 +0000Betsy GardnerHow do great leaders make better decisions when there isn't a perfect answer? In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Katie Yeutter, Managing Director of the Rick Goings Institute for Leadership Excellence at Rollins...How do great leaders make better decisions when there isn't a perfect answer?

In this episode of Human in the Room, Betsy Gardner sits down with Katie Yeutter, Managing Director of the Rick Goings Institute for Leadership Excellence at Rollins College, to explore leadership decision-making, judgment, trust, resilience, and the human skills leaders need to thrive in today's rapidly changing workplace.

The Rick Goings Institute was established through the generosity of former Tupperware CEO Rick Goings to prepare principled leaders who can navigate complexity with confidence, character, and sound judgment. Before joining Rollins College, Katie was the COO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, where she advanced statewide leadership initiatives and worked alongside executives, business leaders, and policymakers to strengthen Florida's future workforce.

Katie is also a seven-time Ironman finisher and English Channel swimmer. Her experience pushing through uncertainty, setbacks, and high-pressure environments has shaped the same leadership principles she now teaches to executives, organizations, and emerging leaders.

In this conversation, you'll learn:
  • How great leaders make difficult decisions with incomplete information
  • Why judgment may be the most important leadership skill
  • How trust is built before results are visible
  • What resilience really looks like under pressure
  • How self-awareness and situational awareness improve leadership
  • Knowing when to persevere and when to change course
  • Why traditional leadership training often falls short
  • How the Rick Goings Institute is developing the next generation of leaders
  • Why human-centered leadership is becoming a competitive advantage in the age of AI
Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, HR leader, manager, business owner, or emerging leader, this conversation offers practical leadership insights you can apply immediately.

Time Stamps:

(00:00) Why Leadership Begins With Better Decisions
(03:14) The Midwest Farm Girl Behind Katie Uter’s Drive
(06:42) What the English Channel Teaches About Pressure
(10:18) Building Trust Before the Vision Exists
(13:42) How Leaders Earn a Seat at the Table
(17:08) Why Trust in Yourself Changes Everything
(20:35) The Leadership Skill of Judgment Under Pressure
(24:06) Knowing When to Keep Going vs. When to Quit
(27:41) Can Leadership Judgment Actually Be Taught?
(31:04) Why Case Studies Aren’t Enough for Modern Leaders
(34:12) How Great Leaders Create the Conditions for Others to Thrive
(38:02) The One Leadership Rep Katie Uter Never Skips

Connect with Katie Yeutter
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieyeutter/ 

The Rick Goings Institute
Website: https://rgi.rollins.edu/
Rollins College: https://www.rollins.edu/

Stay in the Room

Subscribe to Human in the Room for more conversations about leadership, career growth, workplace culture, AI, and the human skills that still matter most.

Newsletter

Join the Human in the Room newsletter:
https://humanintheroom.myflodesk.com/subscribe

Website

Learn more at humanintheroombook.comFollow Human in the Room