There is a big difference between challenges that are merely difficult and those that fundamentally redefine who you are. These defining moments, while painful, hold profound lessons that go on to shape the entire trajectory of our lives.
This week, I sit down with John Bernatovicz, founder and president at Willory, and author of the bestselling book HR Like A Boss. John shares his deeply personal journey through hardship and loss, and how those moments forced him to stop, pause, and ultimately, transform his life both personally and professionally.
John’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to wait for a crisis to strike before getting after the life you truly want to live. For anyone currently navigating a challenging situation, John speaks about the critical importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and intentionally leaning into what you value most when things are at their toughest.
“No matter how hard it gets, you will come out on the other end a better person” – John Bernatovicz.
In This Episode, You Will Learn
- The fundamental belief that will help you face hardship and emerge stronger.
- Why the desire for immediate comfort is often the biggest obstacle to personal growth.
- Specific, actionable methods that leaders can use to consistently reinforce company core values with their teams.
- The importance of addressing issues head-on, rather than letting the fear of the outcome hold you back.
- How taking ownership of your response, rather than blaming the external world, unleashes your personal power.
- The four-step process John would recommend to his younger self for navigating life’s most challenging moments.
- How to harness curiosity and accountability to actively pursue the life you want, rather than waiting for a crisis to force change.
- Plus much more…
What We Discuss:
- 0:00:00 – Episode Opener and Introduction to the Podcast
- 0:00:32 – Podcast and Guest Intro – John Bernatovicz
- 0:03:01 – Hardship And The Weights
- 0:04:13 – Why We Avoid Pain
- 0:05:45 – Face Issues Head On
- 0:10:14 – Let Go Of Control
- 0:15:57 – Autonomy At Work
- 0:19:52 – Core Values In Action
- 0:24:56 – Hiring For Fit
- 0:30:48 – Raising Standards Like Sports
- 0:36:38 – Losing Parents And Caregiving
- 0:44:59 – Life Reset And Impact
- 0:48:08 – Outgrowing Friendships
- 0:49:37 – Relationship Deposits Example
- 0:50:58 – Brotherly Bond Lessons
- 0:54:11 – Loss Sparks Entrepreneurship
- 0:58:29 – Dale’s Origin Story
- 1:00:46 – Motivation Without Tragedy
- 1:08:05 – Dad’s Rolodex Ritual
- 1:20:24 – Social Media and Authenticity
- 1:31:44 – Grief Tools and Support
- 1:38:57 – Rapid Fire Your Edge
- 1:42:12 – Where to Find John
- 1:43:20 – Final Farewell Message
About John
John Bernatovicz is a husband, father, brother, coach, competitive amateur golfer, entrepreneur, podcast host, keynote speaker, author, and HR and payroll advocate. His purpose is to make an impact and is emboldening leaders to reach beyond their potential. Over the last 30 years, John has worked for a Fortune 100 company along with starting six business ventures.
He currently serves as the founder and president of Willory, a professional services firm focused on empowering the HR and payroll communities. One of John’s most notable professional achievements is authoring a book called HR Like a Boss which was published by SHRM Books and reached #1 New Release on Amazon in the Human Resources category.
Show Notes
Connect with John Bernatovicz:
Resources Mentioned:
- John’s Book ‘HR Like A Boss‘ is available for sale on Amazon and on the SHRM Store. The follow up book, Payroll Like a Boss, will be available for sale on April 28, 2026.
- Also, anyone can join the HR Like a Boss community for free and get up to 25 SHRM PDCs. Visit hrlikeaboss.com to learn more.
- Smartsheet
- Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett
