We had the good fortune of connecting with Laura Barbieri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of ONE People Plus® is the strength of my personal brand. The company was born from my own professional journey and reputation, which I’ve built over the years both nationally in the U.S. and internationally in the field of Human Resources. My credibility, integrity, and experience are the foundation of who I am—and also of the services and value ONE People Plus® offers.

From the beginning, my vision was to create a business that people would be drawn to because of the trust they had in me personally. I wanted clients to see how my personal brand, built on deep expertise and a human-centered approach, could be translated into real impact for their own businesses and teams. That personal connection and reputation have been key drivers of growth and long-term relationships with clients.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What truly sets my career apart is that I started from the very bottom. Although I eventually reached senior leadership roles during my 25-year career with Marriott—an incredible company that shaped me professionally—the position I respect the most to this day is the very first one. I was hired at a very young age to clean rooms in a hotel. That experience allowed me to truly see and value the hard work behind every service and operation. It was one of the most important learning moments of my life.

Starting there taught me humility, discipline, and empathy. I always tell people: it doesn’t matter what position you start in—if that place is meant for you and you work hard with focus and purpose, you will go as far as you dream.

My journey was not easy. It took resilience, a growth mindset, and the courage to overcome cultural and professional challenges. But those moments shaped me and helped me build ONE People Plus®—a purpose-driven company that reflects my deep belief in the power of people, culture, and strategic leadership.

What I want the world to know is that ONE People Plus® is not just a brand—it’s the result of lived experience, real work, and a passion for helping organizations and individuals unlock their full potential.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I’d take her on a journey through the most beautiful corners of the city—both its natural landscapes and its vibrant lifestyle. We’d explore stunning beaches, lush parks, and of course, the amazing restaurants, cafés, and boutique hotels—many of which are also places where I provide strategic HR services, so I know their energy and culture firsthand.

We’d definitely spend time in Brickell, my favorite area and also where I live. I love its energy and the way you can feel connected to the city’s pulse. We’d visit Brickell City Centre for some open-air shopping and people-watching, stopping at stylish spots for coffee or cocktails.

As fitness is one of my passions, I’d take her to my favorite gym and for a tennis match at Crandon Park, which is one of the most beautiful and iconic places to play in Miami. It’s a perfect mix of activity, nature, and good vibes.

Throughout the week, we’d soak in all the things that make Miami so special—its diversity, creativity, and vibrant culture—through great food, music, wellness, and meaningful connection

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. They instilled in me the value of hard work from a young age and made great efforts to provide me with a strong education. They also invested in my development as a tennis player and competitor, and the discipline I gained from sports has been a powerful foundation for my professional life. They constantly encouraged me to aim higher, do more, and be better—shaping my character and career with strong values and principles.

I also want to recognize the presence of God in my life. Throughout my journey across many countries, I have always felt His guidance and protection, which gave me strength and a sense of peace even when I was far from home. That spiritual connection has been a source of resilience and comfort in both my personal and professional path.

Website: https://www.onepeopleplus.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1peopleplus/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/labarbieri

Other: Mail: laura@onepeopleplus.com

Image Credits
Marriott

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