How do values move from words on a wall to ways of working that truly shape a culture?

In this conversation, Bev Attfield Partner at Within People sits down with Madeleine Drake Director of People and Culture at Stok and Sabrina Banadaga VP of Marketing at Shift, to explore how values come alive in real workplaces. Together, they talk about what it takes to turn shared ideals into everyday behaviors, and how leaders can nurture belonging and purpose by living their values out loud.

From using technology thoughtfully to keep values relevant, to keeping things simple and human, this episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to bring more meaning into how their organization works and grows.

Listen in to discover:

How values act as a compass for decision-making and belonging

Why the most transformative values are the ones that feel lived, not written

The role leaders play in making values thrive day-to-day

Why simplicity and creativity matter in bringing values to life

Two years ago, we asked if AI could write your purpose and values. Our answer: It can mimic the words, but not the meaning.

In this episode, Emily and Laurie pick up where they left off — this time looking at AI’s role in creating vision and strategy. With 71% of companies now using or exploring AI, it’s no longer niche. But can it really give you direction, or does it just reflect back what you already know?

We talk about:

• How AI can act as a “mirror” for your existing thinking
• The risks of skipping human participation in strategy-making
• Why collective buy-in matters more than a perfect plan
• Practical ways to use AI as a starting point, not the final word
• Creative and collaborative approaches to building a vision your team owns

We leave you with two questions to reflect on:

• Would your team recognize themselves in an AI-written strategy?
• Are you aligned in belief, or just in language?

Don’t let a compelling plan distract you from the conversation that should have shaped it.

In This Episode:

What does it look like to lead with courage in an era of backlash? Jeff Melnyk and Carol Kondo revisit past conversations that still resonate - from DEI and social justice to war, Pride, and legacy. This episode challenges leaders to stop sitting on the sidelines and start showing up.

Podcasts Featured:

The role of leadership in social justice: 3 actionable insights

Pride was a riot: Creating social change from within

Ukraine and social crises: How do business leaders respond

Referenced Articles:

Why Corporate America Is Running From DEI – Psychology Today

Pride events face budget shortfalls – AP News

Performative Allyship: What It Is and Why It Hurts – Diversity Certification

Ukraine Business Initiative – U.S. Chamber of Commerce

To learn more about Within People and the work we do click here