Amanda Porter
Co-Founder
Hi, I’m Amanda, co-founder of Root + Branch, an HR consulting practice focused on helping businesses grow through thoughtful strategy, practical solutions, and people-centered leadership.
Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked across every area of HR, helping leaders feel more confident and clear when navigating the people side of work. Whether it's responding to day-to-day employee needs or leading enterprise-wide change, I meet challenges with a blend of strategy and practicality. That range of experience allows me to connect the big picture to the small details that matter most.
I bring a thoughtful mix of curiosity, empathy, and sensible problem-solving to every partnership. Whether I’m helping a team navigate change or redesigning a process, I focus on building trust and delivering solutions that are clear, adaptable, and built to last.
Outside of work I am a wife, mom of two teens, and an absolute animal lover. I enjoy reading, watercolor painting, learning the guitar and Spanish, and being in nature. I believe in the power of a good laugh, authentic conversation, and doing work that matters—with people I like.
Connect With Amanda
Kaylee Tanner
Co-Founder
Hello! I’m Kaylee, co-founder of Root + Branch. I’ve dedicated my 20+ year career to bridging strategic thinking with real-world execution. With a focus on building thoughtful people strategies, I’ve worked across the HR spectrum: from designing inclusive culture initiatives, to navigating complex compliance requirements. My passion lies in creating meaningful experiences for employees—where personal growth and business results go hand in hand.
I believe effective HR is deeply human and supportive. I’m driven by the connections I build—asking the questions that spur meaningful change, offering pragmatic solutions tailored to each organization’s unique needs, and always keeping people at the very center. Whether I’m facilitating leadership development programs or refining performance management systems, I approach every challenge with empathy, curiosity, and a commitment to making things better.
Outside of work, you’ll find me exploring new places with my family, playing the piano, baking, dabbling in my garden, or photographing wild locations. I thrive on discovering fresh perspectives and nurturing spaces where everyone feels empowered to learn and grow.
Connect With Kaylee
.jpg)
Layna Shields
Recruiting Strategy Consultant
Hi, I’m Layna. Talent Matchmaker, Recruitment & Sourcing Strategist, and people-first problem solver. With 20+ years of experience across the HR and talent acquisition spectrum, I specialize in connecting high-performing leaders with the right opportunities — especially when the search gets tough. From startups to Fortune 100 powerhouses, I’ve tackled hard-to-fill roles with a data-driven mindset, a headhunter’s edge, and a heart for inclusive, human-centered hiring.
My passion lies in building meaningful talent strategies that don’t just fill seats, they fuel growth. Whether I’m championing diversity initiatives, leading onboarding transformations, or acting as a brand ambassador for the companies I support, I bring energy, adaptability, and genuine partnership to every recruitment search.
Outside of work, I’m a proud wife and mom of three teens and a house full of animals. I enjoy collecting vintage pottery and am a backyard gardener who loves swimming and making memories with my family. I believe great recruiting is about true connection, curiosity, and creating real momentum for people and businesses alike.