9: S7 E9: From Colleagues to Confidants: The Underrated Power of Work BFFs with Chris Hagood

Hebba Youssef
Hebba Youssef
March 3, 2025

Work is changing FAST. 

Between global pandemics, remote work, and the Great Reshuffle, it’s no wonder we’re all feeling a little unhinged!

Nothing like building a deep work connection to help you adjust to it all, eh?

That’s why this week’s episode is a fun (slightly wild) ride with Chris Hagood, CEO of AstutEdge and all-around HR powerhouse. 

We’re covering everything from the role of work friendships to whether you’d take $10,000 to return to the office (spoiler: Chris has thoughts). 

Plus, we’re throwing in some HR raps courtesy of ChatGPT because why not?!

Whether you’re here for the laughs, the insights, or just to feel less alone in your corner of chaos, this episode has it all. 

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today!

00:03:00 – A Topic Chris Has Been Interested in Lately

00:08:04 – What the F&*%$ is Going on in the World?

00:11:34 – Does Christ Have a Best Friend in Life That he Met at Work?

00:13:52 – Should HR Play an Active Role in Fostering Friendships at Work?

00:17:19 – Would You Take $10,000 to Return to the Office?

00:23:00 – Professional Myths or Facts

00:33:35 – Yes or No?

00:37:08 – HR Raps From ChatGPT

00:42:12 – 3 Things HR Definitely Shouldn’t Say

 

And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.

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And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!

Follow Chris:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrhagood/

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Hostile Government Takeover Song 

Gallup Best Friend at Work survey

Hebba Youssef
Hebba Youssef