Laurie Ruettimann has spent nearly two decades shaping how we talk about work—from CNN’s “Top Career Advisor” list to her globally recognized Punk Rock HR podcast. But behind the accolades lies a story of confidence, capitalism, and the unpaid labor of influence.

In this episode, Laurie joins Rhona Pierce to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to turn credibility into a career—how she built her platform before influencer culture existed, why “being right” doesn’t always pay, and the emotional toll of being HR famous.

They talk money, mistakes, and the myth of full authenticity online—and Laurie’s raw advice for anyone chasing visibility in the HR and creator world.

We covered:

• The early days of blogging before “influencer” was a job title
• The moment she realized confidence had to be self-made
• Why being “10% more real” is enough online
• How unpaid labor powers most “personal brands”
• The financial and emotional costs of standing for something

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Laurie's new LinkedIn Learning Course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/ethical-hr-leadership/ethics-the-secret-to-driving-business-success
• Listen to Laurie's Podcast: https://laurieruettimann.com/podcast/
• Get Rhona's Newsletter - https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw
• Perceptible Studios: Video Podcast Production - https://www.perceptiblestudios.com/

CONNECT WITH US:

• Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurieruettimann/
• Connect with Rhona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/

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workfluencer, Laurie Ruettimann, HR famous, Punk Rock HR, Workfluencer podcast, Rhona Pierce, personal brand, creator economy, HR tech, human resources, talent acquisition, career advice, blogging, influencer marketing, podcasting, LinkedIn Learning, keynote speaker, authenticity online

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