Change My Mind: Rethinking Leadership and Talent Strategy

Author: Justin ITee Walker
Published: Tue 19 Aug 2025
Episode Link: https://www.multiverseleadershippodcast.net/e/change-my-mind-rethinking-leadership-and-talent-strategy/

What if the secret to better leadership isn’t having all the answers, but learning how to say, “I don’t see it, change my mind”? In this episode of the Multiverse Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Thornton, a global HR expert and leadership strategist with over 20 years of experience. From working in a mall to managing international teams in Hong Kong, Mexico, and London, Jennifer shares how her career shaped her belief in people-first leadership.

We explore how asking the right questions, staying open to ideas, and building meaningful relationships can transform company culture and talent strategy. Whether you're hiring your first team member or leading a global brand, this episode will help you think differently, lead better, and connect more deeply with the people around you.

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(1:12) Jennifer’s unexpected start in retail and early leadership lessons

(3:17) From operations to international HR: a career-defining phone call

(5:37) How cultural humility builds stronger global teams

(8:17) A simple leadership phrase that can change everything: “Change my mind”

(13:17) How to lead even if you're not in charge

(16:17) Why hiring shouldn't just be about filling roles

(19:17) The new talent strategy: full-time, fractional, AI, and more

(24:17) Networking done right: why your best hires are already in your circle

(32:09) Action steps: how to network even if you're scared

(36:23) What it really means to be human, according to Jennifer Thornton