Dec. 16, 2025

Starting from Scratch: How to Build an HR Team at a Startup

Starting from Scratch: How to Build an HR Team at a Startup

Welcome to People Person! In this episode, host and Morning Brew’s SVP Head of People Operations Kate Noel, speaks with Josh Reeves, CEO & Co-Founder of Gusto. They discuss how Josh made some of Gusto’s early People Ops hires, the barefoot tradition that lived on for many years, how leaders can help employees find success in their role and with conquering new skills, and the business values that Josh is also teaching his family. 


00:00: Intro 

01:25: The beginnings of Gusto

05:57: Gusto’s early People Ops hires

12:30: Focusing on compliance vs. culture 

14:20: Performance management   

15:50: Traditions at Gusto  

21:10: Josh’s highlights of Gusto’s growth for employees and customers

23:10: The differences between Gusto and the small businesses it serves

26:58: How business values can translate to family values

29:20: The future of HR and AI in startups  

36:30: Advice for people who want to start a business


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People Person is a candid and conversational show where People Professionals can feel seen and heard, and learn from fellow experts in their field. Host and SVP, Head of People Operations at Morning Brew Inc, Kate Noel, brings years of expertise and a healthy sense of humor to discussions about the latest developments and insights that can help others enhance their workplace and their careers. 

Biweekly episodes will feature Kate speaking with entertaining and experienced professionals about everything from holidays to healthcare, and AI to onboarding, in compelling episodes available everywhere you get your favorite Morning Brew podcasts.