Simon De Baene is the visionary Co-founder and CEO of Workleap, a leading software company that makes work simpler for more than 20,000 companies in over 100 countries.

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Guest Resources

WorkLeap – One simple employee experience platform to boost engagement, drive performance, and develop your people. Check out Simon’s Website.

Simon’s LinkedIn – Connect with Simon on LinkedIn.

3 Value Bombs

1) Simplicity scales—companies that focus on fewer, purpose-built tools run leaner, faster, and smarter.

2) Most HR tools promise value but are underutilized and overpaid for—consolidation is key.

3) Business leaders need to stop chasing tech and start leading with intentionality and discipline.

Show Notes

**Click the time stamp to jump directly to that point in the episode.

Today’s Audio MASTERCLASS: HR Overwhelm to Impact: Why Less Tech Actually Drives Better Results for SMBs with Simon De Baene

[01:33] – What’s a belief about success most people disagree with?

Stay in the details—delegation doesn’t mean detachment.
Success comes from caring deeply about every aspect of the business.

[02:27] – Why HR leaders are drowning in tools.

The SaaS explosion has overwhelmed HR with too many underused platforms.
Companies buy tools for every function but rarely use more than 10% of each.
This leads to disjointed workflows, data silos, and decision paralysis.

[04:33] – How the 2010–2020 “tech boom” backfired.

Tools flooded the market, especially post-pandemic.
Companies are now forced to reassess and consolidate due to budget constraints.
Most realize their stacks are bloated with unused or redundant software.

[08:53] – A timeout to thank our sponsors!

ZipRecruiter: See why 4 out of 5 employers who post on ZipRecruiter get a quality candidate within the first day! Just go to this exclusive web address to try ZipRecruiter for free! ZipRecruiter.com/fire.
Franocity: Franocity has helped hundreds of people leave unfulfilling jobs and invest in recession-resilient businesses through franchising. Visit Franocity.com to book a free consultation and start your franchising journey with expert guidance!
NetSuite: NetSuite, by Oracle, is your AI powered business management suite, trusted by over 41,000 businesses! Download the free e-book, “Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders” at NetSuite.com/fire!

[11:36] – What does “organizational agility” mean to you?

It’s about adapting and deciding fast in today’s fast-evolving tech world.
Even large companies can be disrupted by nimble startups.
Agility isn’t an annual strategy—it must be baked into everyday operations.

[13:18] – Where do we start with simplifying our tech?

Start with discipline: don’t treat tech like an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Commit to a foundation—stick with a few versatile tools long-term.
Avoid shiny-object syndrome and impulsive tool switching.

[16:00] – Simple businesses win—how Workleap applies this.

Workleap builds minimalist tools that solve specific HR pain points.
Internally, they’ve slashed the number of tools used and refocused on a core tech stack.
Simplicity removes the “backpack weight” and makes companies more agile.

[18:44] – What’s the one takeaway for Fire Nation?

“Simple is beautiful.”
Tech is now democratized—business leaders must learn enough to make wise, intentional tech decisions.
It’s a gift of our time: to lead with simplicity and clarity.

[19:33]– Final Call to Action

WorkLeap – One simple employee experience platform to boost engagement, drive performance, and develop your people. Check out Simon’s Website.
Simon’s LinkedIn – Connect with Simon on LinkedIn.

[21:16] – Thank you to our Sponsors!

Franocity: Franocity has helped hundreds of people leave unfulfilling jobs and invest in recession-resilient businesses through franchising. Visit Franocity.com to book a free consultation and start your franchising journey with expert guidance!
NetSuite: NetSuite, by Oracle, is your AI powered business management suite, trusted by over 41,000 businesses! Download the free e-book, “Navigating Global Trade: 3 Insights for Leaders” at NetSuite.com/fire!

Killer Resources!

1) The Common Path to Uncommon Success: JLD’s 1st traditionally published book! Over 3000 interviews with the world’s most successful Entrepreneurs compiled into a 17-step roadmap to financial freedom and fulfillment!

2) Free Podcast Course: Learn from JLD how to create and launch your podcast!

3) Podcasters’ Paradise: The #1 podcasting community in the world!