The Wholly Fractional Podcast

A Technologist's Perspective on AI, the Workforce, and What Comes Next with Alex Rasmussen

As AI continues to evolve, so does the fear that it might replace entire professions. But what if the real story is more nuanced...and more hopefull? In this episode of Wholly Fractional: the Podcast, host Andrew Graft speaks with Alex Rasmussen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexras/], a veteran data systems consultant and founder of Bits on Disk, to unpack what AI is actually capable of today, what's being overstated, and how it fits into the long arc of technological progress. Alex brings two decades of experience in infrastructure and distributed systems, along with a gift for making complex ideas surprisingly understandable. While the conversation leans toward software and tech, the implications are far-reaching, especially for professionals navigating a fast-changing future of work. Together, they explore: * What AI does well (and where it still falls short) * Why thoughtful skepticism is more useful than hype or fear * How today's tools fit into a broader history of innovation * Why the human element remains essential -- even in a world of automation Whether you're in tech or not, this episode offers clarity and perspective in a time of rapid change.

Who's Taking Care of Mom and Dad with Alan Ormsby

In this episode of Wholly Fractional, Andrew sits down with AARP Utah State Director, Alan Ormsby, to tackle an issue that affects nearly every working-age American: caregiving. Whether you're already in the role or haven't yet thought of yourself as a caregiver, this conversation will open your eyes to what's ahead, and how to prepare. Alan shares his personal story of how his grandfather's experience with fraud led him to dedicate his career to protecting and advocating for vulnerable adults. He explains the mission of AARP, the crucial role of state-level advocacy, and why recognizing yourself as a caregiver is the first step toward easing the journey. Key Moments & Insights: * Why caregiving often begins before you realize it, and why you should identify as a caregiver early * The demographic reality of Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials, and how it will shape the caregiving landscape * Essential planning steps to avoid family crisis moments * Why household safety and fall prevention are among the most critical (and overlooked) issues for aging loved ones * The rising threat of fraud, how scammers target older adults, and practical tips to protect your family * Resources you can access immediately, from AARP's guides to local Area Agencies on Aging Alan reminds us that while caregiving can be overwhelming, it is also an opportunity to deepen bonds and find unexpected joy in helping those we love.

Getting Out of Your Own Way (and Why That's the Real Work) with KC Hildreth

What does it really mean to grow — as a leader, a solopreneur, or just a human trying to do meaningful work?This week's guest, KC Hildreth, has navigated that question across a career that spans founder, CEO, CTO, consultant, and investor. But today, he brings those lessons to bear as an executive coach working with high-achievers at a crossroads.In this episode, KC joins host Andrew Graft for a deeply honest conversation about: * How success can quietly become its own trap * Why burnout isn't failure, it's feedback * What fear actually is (hint: not a thought) * How to shift from tension into presence, and why that's where confidence lives. This isn't an episode full of hacks or hustle. It's a reminder of something more essential: that the hardest work we do often starts with getting out of our own way.

Building Community for Fractional HR Leaders with Elles Skony

This week on Wholly Fractional: the Podcast, we're joined by Elles Skony [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAADFcGwBeeXaJC9lr_ntUOMS_AgDlVAJ7KA] — fractional Chief People Officer and founder of Fractional People People [https://www.linkedin.com/company/fractional-people-people/], a thriving Slack-based community for HR solopreneurs. What started as a small peer group has grown into a trusted space for 600+ experienced HR professionals navigating fractional work, business building and the realities of solopreneurship.In this episode, we explore: - Why so many HR leaders are moving toward fractional roles - How FPP became "the coworkers you wish you had" - What HR and community-building have in common - How values like abundance and joy guide the community culture - The mindset shift from in-house identity to independent brand Elles shares candid insights from her own career, including the moment she transitioned herself out of a Chief People Officer role and into her first fractional engagement. Whether you're in HR or simply curious about what community looks like in the world of solopreneurism, this episode offers a thoughtful look from a gifted connector & fractional visionary.

How We Got Here and Where We're Going on The Wholly Fractional Podcast with Andrew Graft and Todd Hines

In our milestone 10th episode, co-hosts Andrew Graft and Todd Hines pull back the curtain on what it really took to get Holy Fractional off the ground, and why this show matters to the growing community of fractional professionals. From heartfelt reflections and early lessons to guest recaps and bold aspirations, this episode is part celebration, part strategy, and all heart. Watch as we highlight standout moments from past guests, share our learnings from launching this show, and talk openly about everything from impostor syndrome to the future of work. If you're building your own fractional career, this one's for you. Thanks to our founding cohort of guest speakers: 1. Mark Jackson – Founder of Besolo 2. Dipti Patel – Fractional product executive and coach 3. Sal Imami – Fractional Chief Revenue Officer 4. Drew Burdick – Founder of StealthX 5. Fatima Alam – M&A consultant, investment banker, coach 6. Kurt Rudsinski – Fractional team builder and coach 7. Heather Leek – Fractional business adviser 8. Meg Niman – Coach focused on overcoming impostor syndrome From redefining leadership to navigating imposter syndrome, each guest has brought something unique to the table -- the kind of immeasurable value and insight we could only hope for when we started down this "fractional" path. So whether you're a loyal listener or just now discovering Wholly Fractional, this episode is a great way to catch the essence of the series. And to our amazing and talented guests: thank you. You are -- and will always be -- the heart of our show.