Founders Future

The HR Hermit Crab Secret: Playful Solutions for Serious Workplace Challenges

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In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Mishal Saeed, Richard Cruz, Principal Consultant of Harmonious Workplaces, shares his journey of transforming organizations through human-centric solutions. With over 20 years of experience, Richard reveals how his consultancy uses a unique "Triple A Method" (Assess, Amend, Align) to diagnose workplace challenges, implement data-driven changes, and foster resilient cultures. He discusses innovative offerings like the 2-week Harmonious Health Check and their playful yet research-backed "Hermie the HR Hermit Crab" learning tools, blending organizational psychology with engaging interventions like team drum circles.

Richard also explores how Harmonious Workplaces balances AI integration with irreplaceable human connection in the future of work. He highlights their plans to scale through LMS courses, speaking engagements, and strategic partnerships—while staying true to their mission of making workplaces more adaptive and psychologically safe. For aspiring consultants, Richard emphasizes starting small, celebrating incremental wins, and letting each success build momentum toward larger goals.