Explore how work works with The CultureCon® Podcast—real stories, fresh ideas, and bold voices building a better world of work.
Leadership gets real when dignity becomes more than a value on the wall. It becomes something people can actually feel.
Live from CultureCon 2026, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Dr. Isa Karabed, Founder and CEO of Karabed Leadership Group and recipient of the Culture Impact Award, for a deeply human conversation about recovery, homelessness, technology, and the moments that shape how we lead. Isa shares how her own recovery journey taught her the power of being seen, why every interaction can restore someone’s sense of dignity, and how leaders can create spaces where people feel welcomed instead of judged.
They also explore the changing role of AI in the workplace and why technology should give us more capacity for presence, curiosity, and genuine human connection, not less. From navigating fear and uncertainty to leading with transparency and lifting up unheard voices, this conversation is a reminder that the smallest moments can carry enormous impact.
Additional Resources:
Learn more about Karabed Leadership Group
Learn more about CultureCon
Subscribe to CultureCon’s YouTube channel!
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
- Dignity can transform someone’s entire experience of seeking help.
- Human connection remains essential as technology reshapes the workplace.
- AI should create more time for meaningful human interaction.
- Transparency helps leaders navigate fear and uncertainty around change.
- Every interaction is an opportunity to make someone feel seen.
Nick Lombardino & Zach Blumenfeld
Welcome to The CultureCon® Podcast, the official podcast for workplace Culture Geeks.
Join us as we explore the way work, works.
At CultureCon, we believe you have the power to make work more meaningful for yourself and for those around you, no matter your role. This is your backstage pass to conversations that spark change, innovation and connection about what makes organizations thrive. You’ll hear inspiring stories, lessons learned and practical strategies from workplace culture experts who are building a better world of work.
Our community is made up of business executives, department heads, people ops professionals, HR leaders, L&D specialists, team managers and individual contributors and anyone who cares about creating more engaging, fulfilling and productive workplaces.
If workplace culture matters to you, you’re in the right place.