Building a successful business isn’t just about strategy, sales, or marketing. It’s about people. In this episode, Susan Mahaffee, CEO and Founder of People Rise, shares why culture, leadership, and strong HR foundations are the real drivers of long-term growth. Whether you’re a solopreneur preparing to hire or a growing business managing a team, you’ll learn how to build a people-first organization that attracts, develops, and retains the right talent. If you want to lead with confidence, avoid costly mistakes, and create a workplace where people actually want to stay, this conversation is for you.

Episode Topics:

1. Why culture is the deciding factor for employee retention and growth
2. When small business owners should start thinking about HR
3. Contractors vs. employees and setting clear expectations
4. The hidden risks of DIY HR and “ChatGPT handbooks”
5. Building leadership skills as your business grows
6. Creating systems, processes, and compliance from the start
7. The shift toward people-first workplaces and purpose-driven culture
8. Inside the People Power Masterclass and cohort leadership model

Insights:

1. When your people rise, your business rises.
2. Culture is the primary reason employees choose to stay or leave.
3. Investing early in the right people systems prevents costly “rework tax” later.
4. Many business owners invest in marketing and sales but neglect leadership development.
5. Employees leave when they don’t see a future, growth path, or strong leadership.
6. Today’s workforce prioritizes purpose, values, and meaningful work over compensation alone.
7. Great leaders create calm confidence, even when navigating difficult situations.

Highlights:

00:00 Welcome and Intro

00:13 Introductions & Setup

02:06 FAM Realty Background

03:39 Reason for Social Shift

08:15 Content Strategy & Execution

13:20 Recording Levels & Workflow

16:47 Boosting & Profile Strategy

18:26 Advice for Individuals

22:42 Engagement Tactics

26:29 Mindset on Engagement

30:11 Closing & Resources

31:18 Podcast episode ended

Resources:

1. Website: https://www.peoplerisellc.com/
2. Instagram & LinkedIn: @PeopleRiseLLC
3. People Power Masterclass (6-month leadership cohort)
4. Upcoming book: When People Rise: HR Secrets for Small...