70: AI, Real-Time Feedback, and the End of the Annual Review | Ash Hynie

AI is transforming performance management, but it’s not about robots replacing people. It’s about making feedback faster, development more relevant, and performance reviews finally… human.

In this episode of The Learnit Lounge, host Dr. Mickey Fitch-Collins sits down with Ash Hynie, CEO and founder of ManageUp, to dig into how AI is streamlining performance management and coaching without losing the heart of what really matters: people.

Drawing on Ash’s journey from engineering to HR leadership and DEI, this conversation explores the real challenges of annual reviews, misconceptions around AI, and the powerful impact of real-time feedback and evidence-based coaching. Whether you lead a team or want to be better seen in your organization, this episode brings you actionable insights, honest reflection, and fresh perspective on the future of work.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why annual performance reviews are outdated and how real-time AI-powered feedback changes the game
• The biggest misconceptions and “fear-based” narratives about AI (and the truth HR leaders need to know)
• Practical examples of AI in performance management: from Slack summaries to bias-reduced coaching
• How AI helps managers balance quantitative data with qualitative stories for better, fairer development
• Why centering humans (not tech) should always be at the core of performance management
• How Ash’s DEI expertise shapes her approach to building tech that sees and advocates for everyone

In This Episode:

00:00 – Introduction to The Learnit Lounge & episode theme

00:45 – Meet Ash Hynie: where engineering meets DEI and HR

02:36 – Rethinking performance management: real-time data, not six-month-old snapshots

05:52 – Top misconceptions: Is AI just another “popularity contest”?

08:44 – Centering humanity in AI-powered processes

10:49 – What AI-powered performance management looks like on a Monday morning

14:18 – AI-powered Slack summaries, real-world examples

15:21 – Using AI to blend quantitative and qualitative insights

18:56 – How AI supports better coaching, feedback, and L&D

22:16 – Real-time feedback makes employees more coachable (and feedback less scary)

23:42 – Addressing bias, “Big Brother” concerns, and inclusive AI development

27:52 – The biggest leadership lesson: Activism is loud, fellowship is soft

30:11 – The uncomfortable truth: Leadership development is underappreciated in organizations

31:40 – How to reach Ash or learn more about ManageUp

About Ash Hynie:

Ash Hynie is the founder and CEO of ManageUp, an AI-powered performance management platform designed to bring real-time feedback and smarter development to organizations. Formerly Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Credit Karma, Ash’s career spans engineering, product, employee experience, and HR leadership. She’s known as a distinguished speaker, coach, and mentor in the tech industry, recognized for weaving together technical expertise with deep empathy for people and culture. Her unique lens, grounded in both data and DEI, shapes how she’s building tools that help people and companies thrive.

Resources Referenced:

• Ash Hynie’s website: yourtechbestie.com/
• Ash Hynie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ash-hynie/
• To contact Ash: ash@manageup.com

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