Create A Place (Kristina York)

Think HR is just about payroll, policies, and paperwork? Think again. Human Resources is the secret weapon behind thriving workplaces, strong leadership, and lasting business success—but only when it’s done right.

In this episode of Create a Place, Kristina York sits down with Lexi Benner, VP of People & Culture at Living HR, to unpack the true role of HR and why it’s time to rethink how organizations support their people.

We break down the biggest misconceptions about HR, why offboarding is just as important as onboarding, and how companies that get HR right attract and retain top talent. Whether you’re an executive looking to build a stronger culture or an HR leader ready to shake things up, this conversation will change the way you see Human Resources.

🎧 Listen now to discover how HR can be your company’s ultimate competitive advantage!

 

Connect with Lexi ::

- LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexiafarnett/

- livingHR : https://livinghr.com/

 

Connect with KY ::

👊🏼 LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/createaplacepodcast

🎙️ Podcast : https://createaplace.net

📐 Design : https://www.createandcompany.com

📺 YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CREATEAPLACE

🎧 Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/create-a-place/id1779942208

🎧 Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/7fIVCgnR433sniYRvrRwNZ?si=b77e418c27524bc4

🎧 Podbean : https://createaplace.podbean.com

Can service dogs foster a more inclusive, innovative workplace? In this episode of Create a Place with Kristina York, ReviveK9 founder Coreena Breazeale shares how these highly trained animals empower employees with disabilities, from medical alerts to mobility assistance. Business leaders will gain insights into ADA compliance, workplace accommodations, and common misconceptions that can lead to unintentional discrimination. Learn how to foster an inclusive culture, educate teams on service dog etiquette, and implement policies that attract and retain diverse talent. As workplaces embrace neurodiversity and accessibility, understanding the role of service dogs is critical for HR professionals and executives alike. Don’t miss this essential conversation on how inclusivity, education, and thoughtful design can create a better workplace environment for all employees.

Where to reach Coreena:

https://revivek9.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreena-breazeale/

In this episode of Create A Place podcast, host Kristina York interviews Kelly Primeau, a marketing expert and business owner. They discuss the challenges small businesses face post-COVID, the shift to remote and hybrid work, and the importance of in-person collaboration. Kelly shares her experiences in navigating these changes, the role of workspace design in productivity, and the potential of podcasting as a tool for connection and storytelling in business. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency and intentionality in workplace culture as businesses adapt to the evolving landscape. Highlights:

• Kelly Primeau has been in business for 27 years and is passionate about helping small businesses with marketing.
• Post-COVID, many small businesses are struggling with hiring and retaining talent due to increased competition from larger companies.
• In-person collaboration is crucial for mentoring younger team members and fostering a positive work culture.
• The shift to remote work has changed how businesses operate, requiring new strategies for productivity and communication.
• Workspace design plays a significant role in employee engagement and productivity.
• Podcasting can be a powerful tool for storytelling and connecting with audiences.
• Creating a supportive work environment is essential for employee well-being and productivity.
• Employers have a responsibility to facilitate connections among employees to combat isolation.
• The future of work will likely involve a hybrid model that balances remote and in-office work.
• Investing in marketing and branding is vital for small businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Where to find Kelly: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellybosetti/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyprimeauconsulting/ Website: https://kellyprimeauconsulting.com/

In this episode of Create A Place podcast, Kristina York engages in a deep conversation with David Biondolillo, Director and Head of US TD Securities and Retail Business Partnerships at TD Bank, about the evolving landscape of workplace design and culture, especially in the context of post-COVID strategies. They discuss the importance of aligning workplace strategies with organizational culture, the need for flexibility in design, and the critical role of employee engagement and feedback in creating optimal work environments. David shares insights from his extensive experience in workplace planning and emphasizes the necessity of listening to employees to ensure successful change management. Highlights:

• Organizational and cultural alignment is crucial for successful workplace strategies
• Flexibility within a kit of parts enables flexibility and is key to future-proofing workspaces
• Engagement at all levels and healthy relationship building is necessary for successful workplace change
• Creating optimal environments requires listening and understanding employee needs

Where to find David: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-m-biondolillo-1b8511b/

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Create A Place. This podcast explores how innovative workplace design can drive employee well-being, foster collaboration, and adapt to the future of work. In this episode of the Create A Place podcast, host Kristina York engages with Kay Sargent, seasoned interior designer and thought leader at HOK, to discuss the evolving landscape of workplace design in the wake of COVID-19. They reflect on past experiences, the challenges faced by the real estate industry, and the importance of flexibility and neurodiversity in creating inclusive workspaces. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative solutions, breaking down organizational silos, and the role of design in enhancing well-being and productivity. Kay also shares insights into her upcoming book on neuro-inclusive design, highlighting the moral imperative of creating spaces that empower all individuals. If you’re ready to create workspaces that empower people, embrace innovation, and align with the future of work, this episode is your guide to success. Episode Highlights:

• Why traditional real estate models no longer support modern workplace needs.
• Actionable insights on integrating flexible office solutions and hybrid work strategies.
• The critical role of workplace design in fostering employee well-being and inclusion.
• Practical steps for overcoming leadership resistance and siloed decision-making.
• How neuro-inclusive spaces and sustainable design can future-proof workplaces.

 

Where to Find Kay:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-sargent-53b2431/

Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces: https://amzn.to/4fIp7C1

HOK: https://www.hok.com/

In this episode of Create A Place podcast, Kristina York speaks with Joshua Pearson, co-founder of PepRally, Inc. They discuss the evolution of PepRally, the importance of brand identity in hospitality, and the role of diversity and inclusion in creative spaces. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in design, celebrating community through art, and creating inclusive spaces for all. Josh shares his vision for the legacy of PepRally and the importance of personal artistic expression and vulnerability in the creative process. Where to find Josh:

book: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/incidental-art

Website: www.joshuatpearson.art  

Instagram @joshuatpearson 

Welcome to the second episode of Create A Place. In this episode of the Create A Place podcast, Kristina York speaks with Dr. Tracy Brower, a VP Workplace Insight at Steelcase, about the evolving landscape of workplace design, leadership, and employee well-being. They discuss the importance of leadership in fostering productivity, the nuanced nature of happiness at work, and the significance of fulfillment in one's career. Tracy emphasizes the need for empathy and vulnerability in leadership and shares insights on how organizations can create happiness and employee engagement. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding different life stages and career paths, and how leaders can support their teams effectively.

Episode Highlights:

• Leadership plays a crucial role in employee productivity and well-being.
• High expectations from leaders can positively influence employee performance.
• Happiness at work is nuanced and involves more than just positive feelings.
• Work can be a source of fulfillment and identity, but shouldn't be the only source of happiness.
• Understanding different life stages can help tailor career advice and support.
• Empathy and vulnerability are essential traits for effective leadership.
• Creating conditions for happiness involves purpose, growth, and connection.
• Leaders should model well-being and provide learning opportunities for their teams.
• Organizational culture is shaped by the behaviors that are tolerated.
• Fulfillment at work can help offset personal challenges outside of work.

 

Where to Find Tracy:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybrowerphd/

The Secrets to Happiness at Work: https://amzn.to/3ZlURau

Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/

Tracy Brower: https://tracybrower.com/

Steelcase: https://www.steelcase.com/

 

 

In this episode of Create A Place podcast, Kristina York resumes her chat with Rex Miller to discuss the intricacies of workplace design, the importance of making choices, and the role of guidance in navigating career opportunities. The conversation delves into leadership dynamics, the significance of relationships, and the concept of post-traumatic growth to build resilience. The episode emphasizes the need for self-discovery and understanding one's strengths to foster personal and professional growth. Episode Highlights:

• Making choices between safety and growth is essential.
• Preparation for failure is a part of the journey.
• Everyone needs a guide to navigate challenges.
• Building strong relationships is crucial for resilience.
• Leadership should allow managers to experiment.
• Gratitude plays a significant role in resilience.
• Understanding strengths can lead to personal growth.
• Incremental progress is key to achieving goals.
• Workplace culture impacts mental health and fulfillment.
• Advocating for team strengths can drive change.

 

Where to Find Rex:

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/rexmiller/

Genius Spark: https://amzn.to/49cpmmG

Change Your Space, Change Your Culture: https://amzn.to/4fKoPKS

Rex Miller: https://rexmiller.com/ Where to Find Create a Place:

• Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
• Website: https://createaplace.net/
• LinkedIn:   / createaplacepodcast  
• Instagram:   / createaplacepodcast  
• YouTube:    / @createaplace  

In this episode of Create a Place, co-founders, Kristina York [Alchemist] and Angela Davis [Firestarter] discuss the journey of their architecture and interior design firm, CREATE+CO. They share their origin story, the challenges they faced, and the transformative projects that shaped their design philosophy. The conversation highlights the importance of listening to clients, understanding their needs, empowering teams, as well as the significant impact of their work on the industry. They share stories of how their unique and personalized approach has led to successful projects, including 'rescue' situations where they transformed experiences that were not meeting client expectations. Kristina and Angela also focus on the significance of building long-term relationships with clients, advocating for their needs throughout the design process, and the future direction of their firm as they continue to innovate in the design industry.

 

Where to Find Angela:

Website : www.createandcompany.com

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-davis-0869536/

In this episode of Create A Place podcast, Kristina York engages with thought leader and modern elder Rex Miller to explore the evolving landscape of workplace design and culture in the aftermath of the pandemic. They discuss the lasting impacts of trauma on organizational culture, the importance of understanding and auditing workplace culture, and the critical role of managers in fostering a supportive environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for community, personal agency, and trust-building as essential components for navigating the complexities of the modern workplace.

Episode Highlights:

• The pandemic has fundamentally altered workplace culture.
• Organizations must recognize that their pre-pandemic culture no longer exists.
• Culture is defined by behaviors that occur in the absence of management.
• Conducting culture audits can reveal the true dynamics within an organization.
• Managers play a crucial role in either enabling or hindering team success.
• Building trust is essential for effective team dynamics.
• Community and personal agency are vital for overcoming workplace challenges.
• Understanding the underlying causes of workplace issues is key to finding solutions.
• Leaders must focus on empowering managers to foster healthy team environments.
• The journey of change often requires taking risks and trusting one's convictions.

 

Where to Find Rex:

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/rexmiller/

Genius Spark: https://amzn.to/49cpmmG

Change Your Space, Change Your Culture: https://amzn.to/4fKoPKS

Rex Miller: https://rexmiller.com/

Design goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about crafting spaces that foster belonging, representation, and inclusion for everyone.

In this episode of Create A Place, Kristina York sits down with Maria VanDeman—interior designer, children's book author, and Director of Design Strategy at OFS—to explore the deep connection between design, diversity, and workplace culture.

They discuss why representation in creative careers matters, how diversity of thought leads to smarter, more human-centered spaces, and the ways our environments shape behavior, belonging, and success. Maria also shares the inspiration behind Design Your World, a book introducing kids to design, and how we can create workplaces that welcome everyone to the table.

Tune in to rethink how design can drive inclusivity, innovation, and real impact!

 

Connect with Maria ::

- LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariavandeman/

- OFS : https://ofs.com/

Buy the book ::

- English : https://amzn.to/3XrRBci

- Español : https://amzn.to/4ijK1sb

 

Connect with KY ::

👊🏼 LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/createaplacepodcast

🎙️ Podcast : https://createaplace.net

📐 Design : https://www.createandcompany.com

📺 YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CREATEAPLACE

🎧 Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/create-a-place/id1779942208

🎧 Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/7fIVCgnR433sniYRvrRwNZ?si=b77e418c27524bc4

🎧 Podbean : https://createaplace.podbean.com