Jennifer McClure on HR Influence, AI, and Why HR Should Lead Disruption

In this episode of the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show, Rhona Pierce takes over live from EVOLVE 2026 in Atlanta for a powerful conversation with Jennifer McClure, keynote speaker, future of work strategist, and founder of DisruptHR. Together, they unpack why HR is uniquely positioned to lead transformation, how leaders can build influence that outlasts their title, and why personal brand starts with clarity—not self-promotion. Jennifer also shares a grounded perspective on AI, urging leaders to frame it as an empowerment tool rather than a threat. This episode is a must-listen for HR and talent leaders who want to lead boldly, communicate their value, and help shape more human-centered workplaces. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why HR is uniquely positioned to lead disruption and transformation - What it really means to become the “Chief Disruption Officer” in your organization -Why personal brand is really about being clear on what you want to be known for - How to build internal influence before focusing on external visibility - The role feedback, mentors, and sponsors play in career growth - How leaders should reframe AI as an enhancement tool—not just an efficiency tool - Why reskilling and internal mobility should be core to talent strategy - One practical way to build influence that lasts beyond your current role Key Moments / Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the EVOLVE Talent and HR Show 01:36 – Rhona Pierce introduces Jennifer McClure live at EVOLVE 2026 03:39 – Why HR should be the “Chief Disruption Officer” 05:27 – Why personal brand is really about clarity and self-advocacy 09:49 – How to tell the difference between bias and lack of visibility 14:13 – The AI conversation leaders should be having 16:19 – AI, reskilling, and the future of talent strategy 18:40 – How to build influence that outlasts your current role 21:22 – Where to connect with Jennifer McClure Jennifer McClure is a globally recognized keynote speaker, future of work strategist, and founder of DisruptHR, a movement active in more than 30 countries. After spending the first 20 years of her career in HR and executive search, she launched Unbridled Talent in 2010, where she speaks on high-impact leadership, strategic HR, and personal branding. Jennifer is also the self-appointed Chief Excitement Officer of DisruptHR, where she helps amplify bold ideas and fresh voices across the HR community. | Follow Us | Follow Jennifer McClure Website | https://jennifermcclure.net LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclure Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_mcclure/ Follow Rhona Pierce Website | https://www.rhonapierce.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonapierce Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/rhonabpierce/ Follow Anna Morgan Website | https://yourcareerbff.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-conference-careerbff/posts/?feedView=all Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/annamorgancareerbff/ Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/anna.morgan.351104 Join the EVOLVE Shine 2027 waitlist: https://yourcareerbff.com/evolve-2027 Interested in collaborating or sponsoring EVOLVE experiences? Book an EVOLVE partnership call: https://calendly.com/annamorgan/evolve-partnership If this episode resonated, subscribe, share it with a fellow HR or Talent leader, and leave a review to help more people-first leaders discover the show.