Culture Transformation for High Performing Teams - an Interview with Brenda Dysinger, Chief Human Resources Officer of Seneca Gaming Corporation

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog

In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Brenda Dysinger, Chief Human Resources Officer of Seneca Gaming Corporation, about the evolving landscape of leadership, the power of authenticity, and how HR can be a true strategic driver in an organization.

Brenda’s leadership journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. She spoke about her early career, where she had to navigate male-dominated spaces and learn how to advocate for herself and others. Her approach to leadership is rooted in fostering trust, prioritizing culture, and leading with transparency.

She shared how HR has transformed from a compliance-focused function to a core driver of business success. In her role, Brenda ensures that employee engagement, leadership development, and inclusion are at the forefront of corporate strategy. She believes that when leaders invest in people, they create stronger businesses and better results.

Brenda also emphasized the importance of continuous learning. She encourages leaders to stay curious, challenge the status quo, and be open to change—even when it feels uncomfortable. Her advice to aspiring female leaders? Own your seat at the table, be confident in your abilities, and never underestimate the impact of showing up as your true self.

Key takeaways from the interview:

0:02:15 – Leadership is about trust, transparency, and staying true to your values.
0:05:32 – HR is no longer just about policies; it’s a strategic function that drives business success.
0:08:21 – Creating a culture of inclusion starts with leadership setting the tone.
0:12:47 – Navigating male-dominated spaces requires confidence, preparation, and self-advocacy.
0:15:38 – The best leaders invest in their people—employee engagement is key to long-term success.
0:18:52 – Continuous learning and curiosity help leaders stay ahead in an evolving workplace.
0:21:09 – Leading through change requires agility and a willingness to embrace discomfort.
0:24:45 – Women in leadership should own their power and not be afraid to take up space.
0:27:33 – Culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of high-performing organizations.
0:30:10 – Authenticity is the secret to strong leadership—people follow leaders they trust.

If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast OR you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, build cohesive, high-performing teams, or lead with greater confidence and influence, OR if your company would like to be a part of the 10-company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader, let’s have a confidential conversation.

Cheering you on always!
 – Sheryl