Work Made Human Podcast: Sarah Reynolds, Benifex
On this episode of Work Made Human, hosts Nichole and Jill talk with Sarah Reynolds, CMO of Benifex, about what it truly means to be human at work. Sarah introduces the idea of bringing your “chosen self” rather than your “authentic self,” recognizing that safety—not pressure—is what allows people to show up fully over time.
They discuss how leaders must model vulnerability first, advocate for what’s right even when it’s uncomfortable, and stop masking their own identities if they want others to feel safe doing the same. Sarah also calls out the gap between inclusive marketing and the real internal work companies must do to support people.
Read 4 Things We Learned from Sarah Reynolds About Bringing Your Chosen Self to Work on the BAM blog to hear more from Sarah Reynolds on shadow ERGs, executive presence, and why they can win any spicy-food challenge
show notes:
04:00 - Authentic vs. Chosen Self
07:22 - Authenticity, Masking, and Workplace Identity
9:43 - Model Vulnerability to Build Trust
15:30 - DEI Conversations: ERGs & Inclusion
16:23 - Inclusive ERGs and Shadow Spaces
25:40 - "Standing Up for Beliefs"