The New Science of Momentum: How HR Leaders Can Ignite and Sustain Momentum with Don Yaeger

Episode 171 • 7th January 2026 • The HR L&D Podcast • Nick Day - JGA Payroll Recruitment

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This episode is sponsored by 'Deel.

Hire, manage and pay – anyone, anywhere: https://www.deel.com/nickdayhr/

In this episode of the HR L&D Podcast, Nick Day is joined by Don Yaeger, Hall of Fame speaker, 12-time New York Times bestselling author, and co-author of The New Science of Momentum.

Drawing on six years of research and more than 250 interviews across business, sport, politics, and the military, Don breaks down how great leaders create momentum before it appears, how they sustain it under pressure, and how poor leadership decisions can destroy it overnight.

This conversation explores why momentum is a mindset, not a moment, how storytelling shapes belief inside organizations, why hiring A-players who can cheer for other A-players is critical, and what leaders must do when momentum starts moving in the wrong direction.

A must-listen for HR leaders, talent professionals, L&D teams, and executives responsible for culture, engagement, and performance at scale.

Connect with Don: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donyaeger?utm_source=chatgpt.com

The New Science of Momentum: https://donyaeger.com/shop/new-science-of-momentum/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Nick Day’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickday/

Find your ideal candidate with our job vacancy system: https://jgarecruitment.ck.page/919cf6b9ea

(00:00) Preview

(02:52) What Human Resources Really Means

(04:06) The Difference Between a Spark and Real Momentum

(08:21) Recruiting A-Players Who Can Celebrate Each Other

(10:26) The Scottie Pippen Lesson on Ego and Leadership

(14:57) Why The New Science of Momentum Was Written

(22:02) Peaking at the Right Time as a Leader