Why Putting People First Is the Leadership Move for 2026

How do you lead teams in a way that puts people first—not just as a slogan, but as an everyday practice? In this episode, Angie Callen welcomes Earl Hoeg, founder of PeopleFirst and a leader with over 30 years of experience driving results through genuine human connection.


Earl's journey started in the Canadian federal government, where he learned a powerful lesson early on: people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. This episode dives deep into what it really means to put people first, why many workplace cultures miss the mark, and how leaders can build trust and connection in ways that fuel both well-being and performance.


In this episode, we explore: - The impact of managers on workplace culture and employee turnover - The challenge of transitioning from individual contributor to effective leader - The role of self-awareness and individualized consideration in transformational leadership - Practical ways to build connection and trust at work - Why investing in human skills remains a competitive advantage in an AI-driven world - Living the philosophy that "humans still matter" in leadership


Earl's insights offer a grounded and hopeful perspective on leadership and the future of work. For leaders navigating change and aiming to design careers and workplaces where people truly thrive, this episode is a reminder: putting people first is not just a strategy, it's the heart of successful leadership.


Guest Bio: Earl Hoeg has spent over three decades in leadership roles within the Canadian federal government and now leads People First, a company dedicated to helping leaders build workplaces where humans thrive. A founding member of the Future of Work Alliance, Earl brings a practical, human-first approach to leadership that centers relationships and connection.


Find Earl on LinkedIn and at peoplefirst.ca to learn more about his work and how to bring a people-first mindset to yours.


Closing Thought: In a world of constant change, remember that leadership is about more than just results—it's about the humans who make those results possible. When you put people first, you set the stage for sustainable success. Because at the end of the day, humans still matter.


Connect with Angie:   / angiecallen  


Connect with Earl:   / earl-hoeg