From Star Player to People Leader: What Could Go Wrong?

In this lively discussion, HR Misfits Ami Graves, Marci Coppola, and LaToya Davis share candid stories and insights about the challenges of managing and developing effective leaders. We have seen some things. And today we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most common and most costly mistakes organizations make: taking your best individual contributor and handing them a team without a map, a plan, or a clue.

We're talking about the real cost of poor leadership development, what HR can actually do about it, and why "they were great at their job" is not a leadership strategy. This one gets real. Let's get into it. 

What is The HR Misfits?

Welcome to The HR Misfits — the podcast for people who care about work, leadership, and humans… but are tired of the corporate script. This is where HR, leadership, and workplace culture get real. Every episode dives into the messy, meaningful, and often unspoken side of work — from people leaders and founders to operators, creatives, and career rebels who don’t fit neatly in a box.

We talk about the moments that shape leaders, the systems that need rethinking, and the stories behind policies, power, burnout, belonging, and growth. No buzzwords. No performative culture talk. Just honest conversations about what it actually takes to build workplaces that work for people.

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t belong in the “professional” version of work — welcome to the misfits. You’re one of us.
New episodes weekly!

It’s not about the destination; it’s about the story. Through honest conversations, we’ll uncover the moments that define careers, the challenges overcome, and the lessons learned along the way. These are real stories from real people, celebrating the diversity of work and the individuality of the people behind it.

Join us as we break down stereotypes, embrace the unexpected, and shine a light on the human side of work.