MCP081: Humanizing Evil HR w/ Gehan G Haridy-Ardanowski’s Disruptive Approach to HR and LinkedIn

You're going to want to grab a coffee for this one, because on this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I got to hang out with Gehan “G” Haridy-Ardanowski. We just clicked when we met during a recent event I was speaking at, and I knew I had to get her on the show. “G” has over 20 years in HR, training, and recruitment with companies like Cintas, 7-Eleven, CVS, Sara Lee, and PwC. She’s also the founder of Golden Synergy Touch LLC and the author of the eye-catching book "FROM SATAN TO SENSATIONAL HR!: 7 Ways to Humanize "Evil" Human Resources."

“G” brought some much-needed real talk about what it means to humanize both HR and LinkedIn. We nerded out on company culture, personal branding, and why fitting in is completely overrated (she lives by “Go where you’re celebrated, not tolerated,” and I love it). She shared her journey of shifting from corporate to entrepreneurship and how she now helps small and mid-sized companies build true employee advocacy and bold brands… starting from the inside out.

🎯 Here are a few of my favorite takeaways:

• HR Doesn’t Have to Be the Bad Guy: “G”’s mission is to reframe HR as a driver of culture, not an enforcer of cold rules. Her book, inspired by her DisruptHR talk, is all about bringing empathy and humanity back where it belongs.
• LinkedIn Beyond Job-Hunting: Whether you’re an employee or a business owner, LinkedIn isn’t just for finding your next gig. “G” empowers teams to bring out their unique strengths and become advocates for both themselves and their companies, all starting with knowing yourself.
• Start With Strengths: “G”’s foundation for career growth (whether you’re a company or an individual) begins with CliftonStrengths. When you know what you’re great at, you can build authentic personal brands and stronger teams.
• Leadership Sets the Tone: Authentic employee advocacy and positive workplace culture have to start at the top. If your leadership encourages people to shine, you’ll have a much happier and more loyal team.
• Smile and Network: “G”’s parting advice? Don’t underestimate the power of a genuine smile, putting yourself out there, and having real conversations—on LinkedIn or in line for coffee. You never know where those connections might lead!

🔗 Connect with G:

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gehanharidy/
• Website: https://goldensynergytouch.com/

If you liked what you heard, send “G” a quick note on LinkedIn and let her know you found her through #MeetCoolPeople. That’s how the best connections get started!

And if you want to see how my team and I can help you turn connections into clients, check out my free training at ConvertMoreClientsNow.com/fum