Native Digital SWAT Teams? with Karen Brieger, Senior Vice President of People at Therapy Brand

A couple of weeks ago we had our Think Tank episode where we've asked an interesting question to see how our guests might implement or respond to this particular scenario. And today is no exception... I got to ask our amazing guest, Karen Brieger, the Senior Vice President of People for an amazing brand called Therapy Brand “What would happen if native digital SWAT teams were deployed in organizations to solve vexing problems?”  In this episode, you’ll hear her insights and strategies for leveraging AI tools to enhance the hiring process. With an extensive background as the SVP of People Operations and Chief People Officer at renowned companies like Thermo Fisher, Smiths Medical, and Investors Bank and Trust, Karen's experience speaks volumes. Pay special attention to how her rich experience and fresh outlook on the role of technology in the workplace offer unique perspectives that will surely leave you pondering.  ---- Leading with Authenticity  Our conversation highlights the significance of authentic leadership in creating a psychologically safe environment. Karen Brieger underscores the importance of being true to oneself, which paves the way for others to do the same.  She shares a personal anecdote about cracking jokes during an interview, which prompted relief and a sense of ease among her colleagues. Karen believes that her own authenticity sets a positive example, allowing others to feel comfortable in expressing their true selves. She notes, "And if I'm not going to be authentic, then have I created a psychologically safe space for others to be authentic? So, it's got to start with me at the top, right? It has to start with the CEO too."  This perspective emphasizes that authentic leadership not only fosters personal growth and satisfaction but also influences the overall cultural dynamics within an organization. 
Outsourcing Solutions Through AI Teams One of the most pressing questions is the potential for outsourcing complex tasks to AI-empowered teams, thus maximizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. As Karen points out, this strategy aligns with current practices of engaging consultants and experts. "If I could use this group that has the power of this AI tool to help solve the problem or do the work for me in half the time, a quarter of the time, in maybe a more creative, productive way, it's going to cost me less, it's going to get me a better outcome. So why wouldn't I?" -- Karen Brieger 
It becomes evident that the convergence of AI and digital natives presents a transformative opportunity for organizations. By harnessing the creativity of youth and the power of AI, businesses can overcome complex challenges... reshape traditional problem-solving paradigms and position themselves for success in a digitally driven future.  Addressing Industry-Specific Knowledge and Problem Solving  "How much industry knowledge depends on the problem, right? How much industry knowledge is needed to help guide what the solution is?" - Karen Brieger  From a structural standpoint, Karen emphasizes the importance of domain knowledge in tackling complex problems within specific industries.   "How much of that just, and that's learned. That's to me those are learned skills. And how essential, with this group, are they there yet? Have they learned those sorts of skills? And is that going to be a challenge in how they approach these problems?" - Karen Brieger   She raises questions about the level of industry expertise required to effectively