Lin Grensing-Pophal
(She/Her)
As seen in:
LinkedIn,
godaddy.com,
Forbes,
Entrepreneur,
Inc.,
SAP Software Solutions,
The Minnesota Star Tribune,
TechRepublic,
KTLA-TV (Los Angeles, CA),
SHRM
and
Covers:
human resource management (HR), employee relations, strategic marketing, content marketing, strategic communications, digital marketing, leadership and management, technology, AI, GenAI, entrepreneur
Business journalist and content marketer specializing in HR, employee relations, and digital marketing. #HR #marketing #strategy #tech #smallbusiness #blogger
Articles by Lin Grensing-Pophal
How Leaders are Leveraging AI to Put the Lid on Brain Drain
Organizations are currently struggling with employee retention, and some professionals may even opt to leave one region for another in search of better career opportunities.According to SHRM’s Global Employee Monitor, the most influential factor in retention for Q2 was pay — 46% of employees reported having left a job due to this factor. With each employee departure, companies run the risk of losing institutional knowledge.
CHROs, Here’s How to Accelerate Leadership Development Programs
Learn how Marsh McLennan successfully boosts staff well-being with digital tools, improving productivity and work satisfaction for more than 20,000 employees. The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the ensuing expected increase in productivity and efficiency, could help usher in the four-day workweek, some experts predict.
It Starts With You: Make Well-Being a Personal Priority
Are You OK? HR professionals often serve as the organization’s “toxin handlers.” That can weigh heavily on your own physical, mental and emotional wellness. Already a member? Please log into your account now to access this content. Not yet a member? Join by clicking below!
A Message on Leadership, Governance, and Mission
Credit union leaders have always understood that governance is more than oversight. It is how we protect the mission, strengthen trust, and ensure our institutions remain prepared for the future. That responsibility has never been more important. Our industry is moving through rapid technological change, rising regulatory expectations, economic uncertainty, and evolving member needs. For credit unions serving military members, veterans, and their families, the stakes are even higher.
A Vision is Not Enough; Leaders Have to Make it Move
Most leaders have a vision for the future. But is that vision moving through your organization with enough clarity, urgency, and shared ownership to shape what people do every day? The answer to that question is where leadership often gets tested. A strategic plan can point the way, in the same way that a board can approve the priorities and a CEO can communicate the direction. But none of that guarantees momentum.
Future-Ready Credit Unions Are Built From the Inside Out
4 minutes Future-Ready Credit Unions Are Built From the Inside Out Consumer expectations are evolving faster than many traditional organizational models. Members increasingly expect a seamless digital experience, personalized service, financial guidance, and institutional trust—all at once. According to research by FICO, nearly nine in 10 consumers say the customer experience is just as important as a financial institution’s products and services.
Meaning and Purpose Are Critical Pieces of the Rewards Puzzle
The Meaning of ‘Purpose’; The Purpose of ‘Meaning’ Employees’ actions (to stay or to go) frequently go beyond the compensation and benefits they receive, and hinge on more personal beliefs. Already a member? Please log into your account now to access this content. Not yet a member? Join by clicking below!
Your Rewards Should Be Geared Toward the Employee Life Cycle
Break the Chain Most organizations fall short because they treat their rewards offerings as static and uniform in a world where employee needs are anything but. Already a member? Please log into your account now to access this content. Not yet a member? Join by clicking below!
When Retirement Finally Sets Your Creativity Free
Editor’s note: This story is part of the series "Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond," a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange For decades, Linda C. Shaw had something to say. A poet, author, singer, and performance artist living in Denver, Colorado, she spent years building a creative life around the edges of everything else.
Leading Ahead of the Readiness Curve
Why Technology Now Demands Strategic Foresight Most leaders recognize that technology matters. The real leadership challenge is acting early enough to prepare the organization before the change becomes unavoidable. For years, technology occupied a familiar place in organizational thinking. It supported operations, expanded channels, and improved efficiency. Leadership decisions and technology decisions often ran alongside one another, intersecting occasionally.
The 100-Year Survival Guide: What White Castle and Crane Know About Outlasting Everyone
Discover the 5 core traits of 100-year-old companies and how to build a business that lasts. When The Farmer’s Almanac announced it would cease publication after 208 years, it sparked an essential question for today’s entrepreneurs: What separates the companies that make it to 100 years and beyond from those that don’t? It’s worth noting that The Farmer’s Almanac and The Old Farmer’s Almanac has even longer roots.
Second Act Funding: Why Age Shouldn’t Get in the Way
Editor’s note: This story is part of the series "Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond," a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange There is a fear that is familiar to many aspiring entrepreneurs over 50: Will investors or lenders take me seriously? Am I too old to secure funding for my business idea? The answer, according to those who write the checks, might surprise you.
The Secret Advantage Older Entrepreneurs Have With AI
Editor’s note: This story is part of the series "Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond," a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange When Barbara Roos launched her consulting firm, Trailhead Communications, last year when she turned 50, she didn't just hang out a shingle. She hired a research team, a marketing department, and an IT help desk. Sort of.
Hiring With Eyes Wide Open
Nirja appeared to be an ideal hire: a software engineer based in Dallas with over 1,300 LinkedIn followers and a "verified" profile. She passed interviews and presented strong credentials. However, further analysis revealed that she was part of a coordinated scam operation involving dozens of individuals operating from a single overseas location, all applying under different identities.
Social Commerce: Leverage Relationship Building Skills Honed Over Decades
Editor’s note: This story is part of the series "Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond," a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange The internet and social media channels have opened up new avenues for entrepreneurs to find and engage with consumers, and to turn them into customers.
Fueled by Freelancers
Editor’s note: This article is part of Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange. When she first started her own business about 20 years ago, Marcia Layton Turner, like many entrepreneurs, found herself needing help. So she hired an employee. That seemed like a logical thing to do but like many other entrepreneurs, she found that the model just didn't work for her.
Regretting 'Unretirement' - When Going Back to Work Doesn't Work Out
Set yourself up for success with preparation, realistic expectations and a willingness to advocate for the role and environment that fits the person you've become, not the professional you once were After 35 years in corporate finance, Susan celebrated her retirement with the obligatory party, tearful goodbyes and a gold watch. But 18 months later, with inflation eating into her savings and days stretching endlessly before her, she accepted a part-time role at her former company.
From VC to AI Artist: How One Executive Reinvented His Career
Editor’s note: This story is part of the series "Entrepreneurship: Square One and Beyond," a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange At 75, Paul Kirby spends his days collaborating with an unusual creative partner: Dulcinea, a painting robot that stands about 10 feet wide and 10 feet tall.
AI Rewriting Workforce Planning | Recruiting News Network
Workforce planning has traditionally been a straightforward exercise: determine headcount needs, assess budget constraints, and align staffing with organizational goals. But as artificial intelligence (AI) gains traction in businesses and industries of all kinds, this once linear process is becoming exponentially more complex. Companies are no longer just planning for staffing needs and roles—they’re mapping work itself.
AI Opportunities for Open Enrollment: What's Working Now
Learn how Marsh McLennan successfully boosts staff well-being with digital tools, improving productivity and work satisfaction for more than 20,000 employees. The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the ensuing expected increase in productivity and efficiency, could help usher in the four-day workweek, some experts predict.
From Hurricane Recovery to Franchise Empire
Cathy Deano built a business at 55, challenging the assumption that it’s ever too late to build something big. EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, as New Orleans and surrounding communities struggled to rebuild their lives, Cathy Deano was just trying to help her neighbors heal.
Popular Podcasts From the Over 50 Crowd
Editor’s note: During these last two weeks of 2025, we are republishing Next Avenue's most-read stories of the past year. The topics that resonated most with readers were grief, caregiving, art and connection, among others. Enjoy this story again, or for the first time. Podcasts are more popular than ever and while many are directed toward younger audiences, there are plenty that also appeal to listeners over 50 — including podcasts produced by baby boomers.
Redefining Performance Reviews: Why Traditional Systems Are Failing—and What to Do About It - HR News Feed
New data from Acorn’s “2025 Corporate Performance and Learning Survey” reveals a troubling reality: performance reviews, learning programs, and competency frameworks are often failing employees—so much so that they’re pushing talent out the door. After reviews: 27 % of employees report feeling uninspired and less productive. Fewer than half say their review clearly outlined improvement or advancement paths.
Cross-Generational Partnerships Can Be Magical for Business
The older partner's wisdom, experience, and connections can complement the younger generation's fresh thinking. EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX. Many retirees opt to start a business in the second act of their working lives, often partnering with members of younger generations when they do so.
The AI Skills Gap and Why 50+ Workers Are Uniquely Positioned to Bridge It
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange Conventional wisdom says that artificial intelligence (AI) belongs to the young. But a growing number of companies are discovering that their most valuable AI assets may be sitting in the cubicles and corner offices of employees over 50.
Maturity and Wisdom + Fresh Eyes
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange Many retirees opt to start a business in the second act of their working lives, often partnering with members of younger generations when they do so. These intergenerational partnerships are likely to be increasingly commonplace as the workforce includes members of five generations.
The Rise of FOBO: Why Workers Are Eyeing AI-Proof Careers
As AI tools continue to reshape work across industries, a new anxiety has entered the professional lexicon: FOBO—fear of becoming obsolete. While the term may sound buzzword-y, the concern is anything but abstract for today’s workforce. According to new data from Kickresume, 21% of respondents say they’ve either lost a job due to AI or know someone who has.
Why Layoff Survivors Matter: Re-Onboarding as a Strategic Imperative
Recent findings from Kahoot!’s 2025 Layoff Survivor Survey highlight a critical blind spot in workforce strategy after downsizing activities: surviving employees are often left without training or support, and it’s hurting both employees and business outcomes. Conducted from April 24 to May 1, 2025, and based on input from more than 1000 U.S. workers who experienced layoffs in the past three years, the data offers compelling reasons for employers to rethink post-layoff practices.
From Hurricane Recovery to Franchise Empire
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, as New Orleans and surrounding communities struggled to rebuild their lives, Cathy Deano was just trying to help her neighbors heal. She and a close friend created an art space where people could come together, paint and reconnect in a world turned upside down.
Breaking Into Showbiz for Your Second Act
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange Back in 1984, Clara Peller became virtually an overnight sensation after making her acting debut in the now iconic "Where's the beef?" commercial for Wendy's. She was 81.
75-Plus, and Thriving
Perry Solomon has a simple philosophy that keeps him energized at 80: "I often compare myself to a shark. If I am not moving forward and providing value, I feel my life loses its purpose." The president of Solomon Growth Advisors in California isn't slowing down — he's currently serving on six different company boards, helping founders and CEOs launch new brands and grow their organizations. Solomon represents a rapidly expanding demographic that is transforming American workplaces.
LinkedIn Newsletters: Best Practices for Success
Vendors: For commercial reprints in print or digital form, contact LaShawn Fugate (lashawn@infotoday.com) Magazines > Information Today > July/August 2025 Back Index Forward LET'S GET STRATEGIC LinkedIn Newsletters: Best Practices for Success by Linda Pophal LinkedIn Newsletters linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a522525/linkedin-newsletters Career Bites linkedin.com/newsletters/career-bites-7031384191246241793 Navigating AI linkedin.com/newsletters/7196576075970134016 Bob Hutchins—The Human...
Applying the Rules of Marketing to Advance Your Career
When we think of marketing, we tend to think about brands promoting their goods and services through channels that are traditional—television and radio—or digital—social media and online advertising. Marketing principles are tried and true and, despite the proliferation of new technologies and outlets, the old rules still largely apply. After all, effective marketing is grounded in the psychology of persuasion—convincing an audience that they need what you have to offer.
How HR Teams Are Actually Using AI: Real-World Applications and Best Practices
AI is no longer a distant concept—it’s a daily tool, increasingly embedded in how HR teams attract, develop, and support talent. As organizations push toward more agile, data-driven operations, HR departments are adopting AI to enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and deliver more personalized employee experiences. But they’re also grappling with concerns around privacy, bias, and the potential erosion of human connection.
What Are Super Agers' Secrets?
Ira Eliasoph, M.D., has packed a lot of living into his life. He scored the highest marks in the nation on surgical board exams. While serving as a doctor in the United States Navy, he saved the lives of sailors plucked off a burning transport. As a civilian, he treated Academy Award winner Ray Milland and socialite Zsa Zsa Gabor. His achievements came as no surprise to people familiar with his family.
Strategic Loan Origination Technology
5 minutes A Credit Union Growth Driver The credit union lending landscape has transformed dramatically in recent years. Credit unions face increasing pressure from fintechs, shifting member expectations, and evolving digital requirements. As a result, loan origination systems (LOS) are no longer back-office tools—they have become critical strategic assets that influence growth potential, operational efficiency, and member satisfaction.
How to source and vet your healthcare hires
Talent acquisition or hiring can pose challenges for HR leaders and hiring managers in any industry, but the healthcare industry is unique. After all, in healthcare organizations, clinical staff are charged with interacting with patients during very sensitive and vulnerable times. Ancillary staff are also responsible for interacting appropriately with patients, family members and visitors, regardless of the department they work in or their role.
5 Trust-Eroding Mistakes Leaders Make — and How to Avoid Them
HR must always include human intelligence and oversight of AI in decision-making in hiring and firing, a legal expert said at SHRM24. She added that HR can ensure compliance by meeting the strictest AI standards, which will be in Colorado’s upcoming AI law. The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the ensuing expected increase in productivity and efficiency, could help usher in the four-day workweek, some experts predict.
The Gen Z Tech Training Myth: Why Digital Natives Need More Support Than You Think
It’s a common assumption in today’s workplace that younger employees, having grown up with smartphones and social media, will naturally adapt to new technology faster than their older colleagues. But new data from the Yooz 2025 Workplace Tech Resistance report tells a different story—one that challenges these generational stereotypes.
What You Can Learn from Older Entrepreneurs
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange. There's a widely held belief that entrepreneurs are all in their 20s, but that's simply not the case. Harvard Business Review has reported that the average age of entrepreneurs was 42 (and that was back in 2018).
The Keys to Bringing Buyers Out From the Shadows
By Linda Pophal, business journalist and content marketer Today’s digital commerce environment means that marketers can learn a lot about consumers who are interested in their products and services. But while that can be a boon for marketers, it’s not something that all prospects like. In fact, a rising number of consumers are actively taking steps to avoid being detected. They don’t want the bother. They don’t want the intrusion.
Social impact as a second act
Retirement represents a wide range of opportunities for retirees. Some choose to kick back and enjoy a break from the rat race, while others return to work full- or part-time. Many also choose to serve in their communities. Chris Heerlein is CEO at REAP Financial, an investment advisory firm. REAP, he says, works with many retirees who don't step away from work; they step into something more purposeful. "Their second act is often about giving back, not winding down," he says.
Hand Down the Family Business but Keep a Hand In
Editor’s note: This article is part of The Great Unretirement, a Next Avenue initiative made possible by the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and EIX, the Entrepreneur Innovation Exchange. Sheela Bajaj and her granddaughter Yukti Bajaj operate CaughtCraftHanded, selling crocheted accessories, toys and specialty items made by the elder Bajaj. They originally launched the company on Instagram in 2020.
AI and Recruitment: How AI Is Reshaping The Hiring Process
HR is arguably one of the organizational functions that has been most impacted by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). In fact, I’ve been writing about these impacts since 2017, well before Generative AI (GenAI) made its appearance. HR has been quick to embrace AI technology. That simply makes sense as it is an organizational function that is highly transactional in nature.
The Soft-Skills Crucial for Modern Corporate Leaders
As companies prepare for a future that’s anything but predictable—shaped by fast-moving technology, shifting workforce dynamics, and global uncertainty—the qualities that define strong leadership are evolving. Technical expertise and formal titles still have their place, but they’re no longer what sets the best leaders apart. More than ever, it’s the human side of leadership that matters most—qualities like adaptability, empathy, and the ability to think clearly in the face of change.
Right-Skilling to Future-Proof Your Workplace - HR Daily Advisor
In today’s fast-paced, high-stakes business environment, simply offering more training won’t future-proof a workforce. While broad-based upskilling programs have their place, what organizations increasingly need is a more focused, intentional strategy: right-skilling. A Look at Right-Skilling Right-skilling goes beyond general development. It zeroes in on aligning employee capabilities with the evolving priorities of the business.
Strategic Education Support: How Employers Are Finding Win-Win Solutions - HR Daily Advisor
The go-to career development efforts used by employers today are leadership training (71%) and sharing internal job postings (59%) according to LinkedIn Learning’s Workplace Learning Report 2025: and for good reason. Employees increasingly value both personal and professional training and development—and they’ll stay with employers that provide them with these opportunities. It’s a win-win proposition.
What Does “The Future of Work” Mean?
What does “the future of work” mean? “The future of work” describes what the workforce of tomorrow will look like, shaped by technological advancements and changing societal norms. In recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic and with the rise of generative AI, these shifts have accelerated significantly. COVID-19 rapidly changed the workplace The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the workforce at a rapid pace, especially where work happens through remote and hybrid work models.
Use Generative AI to Create Video Marketing and Sales Content
By Linda Pophal, business journalist and content marketer Video used to be very expensive and time-consuming to produce. But with the widespread adoption of smartphones that could capture video seamlessly, and an associated drop in viewers’ expectations for high-quality output, the cost and time requirements for video production have declined precipitously.
Social Impact as a Second Act
Retirement represents a wide range of opportunities for retirees — some choose to kick back and enjoy a well-deserved and well-earned break from the rat race, while others return to work on a full- or part-time basis. Many choose to make an impact in more meaningful ways than their careers provided. Chris Heerlein is CEO at REAP Financial, an investment advisory firm. REAP, he says, works with many retirees who don't step away from work, they step into something more purposeful.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Lin
Contact Lin, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack