Replay: Fostering a Lifelong Learning Culture with Karen Alter
Wed Feb 04 2026
What happens when vulnerability becomes your leadership superpower?
Kristi sits down with Karen Alter to unpack what it means to lead from the heart in an industry often driven by metrics and deadlines. From stepping into leadership in a post-founder era to fostering a culture where creativity and connection thrive, Karen shares how relational leadership has shaped every corner of her organization. She opens up about her journey, from receiving the vibe to becoming the one who creates it, including the powerful personal story of how a colleague became a surrogate and lifelong friend.
Karen gets real about hiring for culture fit, designing intentional hybrid spaces, having hard conversations with clients, and why she'll never lead with fear. This episode is a masterclass in showing up as your full self, and how that choice impacts everything from morale to results.
If you're ready to build a culture where trust, transparency, and real human connection fuel your team, this one's for you.
Additional Resources:
Connect with Karen on LinkedIn
Learn more about Borshoff
Subscribe to Kristi's YouTube for more Vibecast content!
Learn more about Skutvik Consulting
Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn
Learn more about PeopleForward Network
Key Takeaways:
Vulnerability builds trust and deepens team connection Culture thrives on intentional relationships and shared values Physical space impacts creative energy and collaboration Hire for diversity, align on core values Great leadership starts with listening, not talking
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What happens when vulnerability becomes your leadership superpower? Kristi sits down with Karen Alter to unpack what it means to lead from the heart in an industry often driven by metrics and deadlines. From stepping into leadership in a post-founder era to fostering a culture where creativity and connection thrive, Karen shares how relational leadership has shaped every corner of her organization. She opens up about her journey, from receiving the vibe to becoming the one who creates it, including the powerful personal story of how a colleague became a surrogate and lifelong friend. Karen gets real about hiring for culture fit, designing intentional hybrid spaces, having hard conversations with clients, and why she'll never lead with fear. This episode is a masterclass in showing up as your full self, and how that choice impacts everything from morale to results. If you're ready to build a culture where trust, transparency, and real human connection fuel your team, this one's for you. Additional Resources: Connect with Karen on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Subscribe to Kristi's YouTube for more Vibecast content! Learn more about Skutvik Consulting Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Vulnerability builds trust and deepens team connection Culture thrives on intentional relationships and shared values Physical space impacts creative energy and collaboration Hire for diversity, align on core values Great leadership starts with listening, not talking