n this episode of The Human Factor, host Kimberly Diamond sits down with leadership expert Paul Cotton to explore why interim executives are becoming a powerful force in today’s fast-changing business landscape.

With decades of experience spanning the British Army and global executive boardrooms, Paul explains how interim leaders deliver speed, clarity, and measurable outcomes during moments of disruption, transformation, and transition. From private equity environments to mergers, acquisitions, and organizational turnarounds, this conversation breaks down when to bring in an interim executive, how to onboard them effectively, and the common mistakes organizations make.

The episode also offers guidance for executives considering interim leadership as a career path, covering mindset shifts, personal branding, execution pressure, and what it truly takes to succeed without long-term tenure.

Discover how to build strong teams and improve workplace culture on The Human Factor with Kimberly Diamond. In this episode, Nikita Poindexter, HR and DEI expert, shares strategies to eliminate favoritism, stop office gossip, and foster effective communication at work. Learn real-world tactics to strengthen trust, boost productivity, and lead with purpose—perfect for leaders, managers, and professionals looking to transform their organizations.

• (00:00:00) - The Human Factor: Building Strong Teams
• (00:01:04) - Workplace Environments and Favoritism
• (00:08:01) - How Can Leaders Make Sure Everyone Feels Valued and Seen Cons
• (00:12:27) - The Human Factor
• (00:13:13) - Why Gossip Is So Toxic in the Workplace
• (00:15:41) - How to Prevent Controversial Discussions in the Workplace
• (00:20:14) - Is there any other thing, besides the weekly communication?
• (00:24:21) - Employee Rumor Round Up
• (00:27:03) - The Human Factor
• (00:27:38) - Why Employees Are Afraid to Come to HR
• (00:33:50) - How to Manage a Employee's Feelings
• (00:34:26) - How to Raise an Employee's Confidence
• (00:37:01) - The Human Factor
• (00:38:34) - Don't Try to Do It All
• (00:44:16) - Challenging the challenges facing women in the workplace
• (00:46:50) - How to Set Boundaries for Yourself
• (00:49:04) - Vikita Pandey on the workplace

Mario shares his journey from navigating corporate life to building his own agency rooted in authenticity, representation, and cultural impact. Through storytelling, design, and bold collaboration, he’s helping entrepreneurs and organizations find their voice and connect with audiences on a human level.