The Pryor Learning Podcast
Every month, we dive into the business skills everyone’s talking about—from must-have training to the learning gaps holding teams back. Tune in to hear top industry trainers break it all down, share real-world insights and give you practical takeaways you can use right away. Hit play and stay ahead of the curve.
Podcast Episodes
August 11, 2026
The $6 Million HR Mistake: Lessons Every Leader Should Know
In this episode of the Pryor Learning Podcast, hosts Emi Dieleman and John Schindell sit down with HR consultant, trainer, author, and podcast host John Thalheimer to discuss the evolving role of human resources and the growing importance of strategic HR leadership.
John shares the management experience that unexpectedly introduced him to employment law and ultimately shaped his career in HR. Through that experience, he recognized a common organizational challenge: many managers are promoted based on technical expertise without receiving adequate leadership or compliance training.
The conversation explores how organizations can move beyond viewing HR as a purely administrative function and instead leverage HR as a strategic partner that supports culture, employee experience, risk management, and long-term business success.
John also highlights the importance of documentation, consistency, employee expectations, and leadership systems that help teams perform more effectively. The discussion extends into emerging trends, including artificial intelligence in hiring and workforce management, as well as the ongoing challenges organizations face in recruiting and retaining talent.
Throughout the episode, John offers practical, actionable advice for HR professionals, managers, and business leaders looking to strengthen workplace systems while creating healthier, more productive environments for employees.
This episode is especially valuable for leaders navigating growth, compliance, and workforce development in today’s rapidly evolving workplace landscape.
30 min
July 21, 2026
Why Employees Quit Their Bosses: Leadership Lessons with David Suson
In this episode of the Pryor Learning Podcast, hosts Emi Dieleman and John Schindell sit down with leadership expert, keynote speaker, author, and podcast host David Suson to explore what separates effective managers from truly inspiring leaders.
Drawing from decades of leadership coaching and performance consulting, David explains why human connection, not authority, is the foundation of high-performing teams. From his early experiences at IBM to lessons learned from transformational leaders throughout his career, David shares practical insights into employee engagement, workplace culture, coaching, and leadership development.
The conversation dives into why employees stay, why they leave, and how leaders can unlock untapped potential by treating people as individuals rather than “robots.” David also discusses the importance of decisiveness, trust, emotional intelligence, and adapting leadership approaches in remote and hybrid work environments.
Packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and memorable analogies—including the idea that “you can’t turn a cat into a dog”—this episode offers valuable guidance for leaders at every level.
Whether you manage a small team or a large organization, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership and inspire you to create stronger human connections in the workplace.
43 min
June 23, 2026
From Opera to Inclusion: Daryl Dixon on Bringing Harmony to the Workplace
In this episode of the Pryor Learning Podcast, hosts Emi Dieleman and John Schindell welcome diversity expert, author, and former opera singer Daryl Dixon for a powerful conversation on inclusion, leadership, and finding purpose in unexpected places.
Daryl shares his unique journey from performing on world-class stages, including singing at the White House, to becoming a nationally recognized voice in diversity training. Drawing from both his musical background and professional experience, he offers a compelling perspective: just as music requires harmony, so do our workplaces.
Throughout the episode, Daryl explores how his early life experiences shaped his passion for diversity and inclusion, and how leaders can create environments where differences are not just accepted but valued. He also discusses the importance of intentional communication, understanding perspectives, and building workplaces that foster collaboration and respect.
Whether you’re a leader, HR professional, or someone looking to better understand the role of diversity in organizational success, this conversation provides practical insights and meaningful inspiration.
26 min
May 29, 2026
Fearless Isn’t Fear-Free: Lessons in Courage, Career and Personal Growth with Hollie Stuart
In this episode of the Pryor Learning Podcast, we welcome HR executive, keynote speaker, and endurance athlete Hollie Stuart for a conversation on resilience, growth, and the true meaning of fearlessness.
Hollie’s story is one of determination and transformation. From navigating early life adversity to building a successful career in human resources and completing marathons on six continents, she brings a unique perspective on what it takes to grow both personally and professionally.
At the heart of the discussion is a powerful idea: fearlessness isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the decision to move forward despite it. Hollie shares how this mindset has influenced her leadership approach, her career decisions, and her commitment to empowering others in the workplace.
This episode explores how challenges can shape stronger leaders, how mindset drives performance, and why embracing discomfort is often the key to meaningful growth.
Whether you're developing your leadership skills, navigating change, or seeking inspiration to take your next step, this conversation offers valuable insights you can apply immediately.
20 min
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