Most companies talk about putting people first. Few build systems that prove it.
This episode unpacks what happens when empathy isn’t a value - it’s the infrastructure.
In this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Josh Varone - CFO and EVP at Centreville Bank, longtime HR pro, board member, and unshakable believer in leading with humanity. With more than 20 years in HR and a deep resume of community impact, Josh breaks down how his L&D roots shaped a career defined by empathy & servant leadership.
This isn’t your typical HR playbook - it’s a reminder that caring still scales.
They unpack:
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Why “employer of choice” isn’t a buzzword - it’s a mission
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How handwritten notes and DoorDash gift cards beat policy changes in real impact
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The red folder lesson: why HR’s reputation depends on showing up before there’s a problem
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What real consultation looks like in today’s HR: less compliance, more conversation
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How to build an HR team that challenges you (instead of just nodding yes)
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Why your leadership ladder needs to be 40 feet wide - not 40 feet tall
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How to get on a board the right way - starting with passion, not position
Whether you’re HR of one or leading a department, Josh’s journey is a blueprint for showing up with consistency, clarity, and compassion.
Because great leadership? It starts with being a good human.
| Connect with Us |
Learn more about Centreville Bank:
https://www.centrevillebank.com/
Follow Josh Varone:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-varone/
(HR lifer turned CFO – known for handwritten notes, red folder wisdom, and building cultures where people feel seen before they're managed)
Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/
Subscribe on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b
Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160
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