Authenticity in leadership is often encouraged, but rarely modeled at the top. And in HR, the pressure to stay polished can make vulnerability feel off-limits. In this episode, Nicole DuBois joins Karina Young to reflect on what happens when people leaders stop compartmentalizing and start leading from their full selves. Nicole, CHRO at Graham Windham, opens up about publishing a memoir under a pseudonym, sharing her story publicly, and how that decision impacted her team and her career. Together, they talk about how HR teams can influence culture by showing up as humans first, what it looks like to embed compassion into strategic planning, and why trust with employees hinges on transparent follow-through. Nicole also shares how her team is building programming around vulnerability, leadership coaching, and belonging across the organization. For HR leaders looking to lead with more intention and impact, it's a reminder that honesty isn't a liability but a strategy. Join us as we discuss:

Meet HR Superstar: Nicole DuBois

The pressure to stay polished as an HR leader

Nicole's journey from policy enforcer to strategic people partner

What to do when HR needs HR

Writing a memoir while hiding behind a pseudonym

The moment Nicole chose to show up fully

How authenticity changed her team relationships

The loneliness of leading HR without peer support

Building an annual plan rooted in compassion

Supporting employees in emotionally demanding roles

Coaching leaders stuck in outdated management styles