I'm Brent. I lead HR for a living and have opinions about it.
I've spent more than 15 years in talent and HR across several industries. This site is where I share what I've learned, along with the tools I wish someone had handed me.
The short version
Today I lead HR as a VP. My week runs from hiring plans and compliance to safety and fleet.
Earlier in my career I led talent acquisition and HR analytics. That work taught me to hire with urgency and to treat every candidate like a future customer.
I believe HR is a business function. I tie every ask to what it does for the business, and I expect to be held to the same results as any other leader.
I write Train of Thought because HR has plenty of jargon and too little common sense. I'd like to help fix the ratio.
What I'll argue for
HR is a business function.
Know how the company makes money. Then earn your budget the way every other department does.
Hire with urgency.
Good candidates are off the market in days. Your process should move in days.
Leaders have to lead.
The hard conversation you keep ducking won't fix itself, and it never gets easier.
Say it plainly.
If it reads like a legal document, people stop reading. Short and clear wins.
Off the clock
Running and swimming
I run long distances, ultramarathons included. My emergency ID bracelet says "Embrace the suck."
Books
I go through them on Audible and in paperback. Two I've enjoyed: Atomic Habits and Smart Brevity.
Family and travel
I spend my free time with family, and I love to travel and explore new places.
Coffee
Iced, please.
Got a question or an idea?
Speaking, coaching, a project, or a disagreement with something I wrote. I'm up for all of it.