We’re celebrating PFN’s birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact.

This special feature from Working Forward with Jason Cochran captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy!

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The future of work won’t be decided by AI alone. It will be shaped by whether we choose real connection over artificial convenience.

Jason sits down with Bob Dalton, founder of Sackcloth & Ashes and LOCL, to explore why community may be the most important leadership strategy of the next decade. Bob shares the personal story that led him to build a mission-driven blanket company, how localism became his lens for societal change, and why leaders must move from building audiences to creating true communities.

Together, Jason and Bob unpack the rising tension between technology and humanity, the danger of isolation in a screen-addicted world, and the urgent need for proximity, shared purpose, and real-life connection. For people-first leaders, this conversation is a wake-up call: the brands, workplaces, and communities that survive will be the ones built with conviction, authenticity, and human connection at the center. 💡

Additional Resources:

Listen to Working Forward wherever you get your podcasts!

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Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Community is becoming essential for human survival.
• Local connection can counter digital isolation.
• Followers are not the same as community.
• AI should amplify humanity, not replace it.
• Conviction matters more than a good concept.