HR Mixtape

Pay used to decide who took the job. Now the first question most candidates ask is whether they can work from home, and companies still writing postings around salary alone are losing candidates before anyone even applies. Myla Ramos, co-founder and CEO of SearchPros, built the company from a local Sacramento staffing firm into a nearly $175 million global managed service provider. She cut her company's time to hire by 45% using AI while keeping retention above 70%. In this episode, she covers: Why flexible job postings pull in 10 times more applicants than office-only roles, and why candidates will take 30% less pay to get it How SearchPros cut time to hire by 45% by pointing AI at candidates it already had, instead of chasing new ones What determines whether a new hire survives the first 90 days, and why Ramos calls it a two way responsibility Timestamps [00:01:10] Myla's early years making 200 calls a day, and the shift required to stop doing the job yourself so the company can scale [00:03:45] The origin of "Change the World Tuesday," SearchPros' internal term for rebuilding a broken process by the start of the next week [00:05:04] The widest gap between what employers say they want and what candidates actually bring to the table right now [00:08:41] What leaders get wrong about hiring and keeping Gen Z, beyond the usual complaints [00:09:21] Why SearchPros dropped its call and placement quotas in favor of measuring results [00:13:08] Why flexible postings draw 10 times more applicants than office-only roles, and why candidates will take 30% less pay for remote work [00:15:43] The real hiccups of adopting AI in recruiting, and why there's no single tool that does all of it [00:17:48] How SearchPros uses AI to mine a database of millions of existing resumes instead of chasing new candidate sources [00:19:44] Why an estimated 85% of applicants inflate their information, and the in-person interview SearchPros added to catch it [00:24:10] What actually determines whether a new hire survives the first 90 days, and why Ramos treats retention as a two way responsibility Guest Bio Myla Ramos is the CEO and Co-Founder of SearchPros, a full service provider of human capital and workforce solutions. A member of the 2024 SIA Global Power 150, Ramos has earned numerous leadership awards, including the Business Journals Most Admired CEO, Power 100, and Women Who Mean Business; and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Outstanding Women Leader of the Year. She is a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award. Ramos is proudest of SearchPros' "Best Place to Work" recognition from numerous organizations, including Inc., the Sacramento Business Journal, and SIA. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: AI in recruiting, staffing industry, talent acquisition, Gen Z hiring, employee retention, flexible work, remote work, managed service provider, recruiter productivity, candidate experience, resume fraud, pay transparency, onboarding, contingent workforce, HR technology, time to hire, work from home, new hire retention

HR asks for a new system, more headcount, a bigger training budget. Finance says no. The instinct is to assume the idea wasn't good enough. John Sansoucie, Founder and CEO at CogNet, spent years as a CFO inside HR service companies and PEOs before he built his own business process outsourcing company, so he has sat on both sides of that budget table. In this episode, he covers: Why HR requests get denied even when they're worth funding, and what a CFO is actually listening for before approving a budget line How to turn a list of 28,000 possible metrics into the three numbers a CFO will remember What cost to serve measures and how to calculate it for any HR function Timestamps [00:01:05] John's path from CFO inside an HR outsourcing company to founding CogNet with his own former team [00:02:20] Why finance treats HR as a cost center, and the shift in language that changes that perception [00:03:18] What cost to serve actually measures and how to calculate cost per unit for HR work [00:04:04] Why John sent his newly promoted CPO 28,000 metrics, and how they got that down to three [00:05:14] The five-year cost of ownership question that ends most new software pitches [00:08:23] How John used to pitch the true cost of turnover to justify outsourcing deals [00:12:06] Why John cares more about losing star performers than his overall turnover rate [00:16:23] How to find a bestie in finance, and why that person is often junior [00:17:47] Why payroll gets scrutinized while performance management and open enrollment go unmeasured [00:22:41] Why HR doesn't have to choose between process discipline and automation Guest Bio: John Sansoucie is the Founder & CEO of CogNet, a global business process management company that helps HR service firms, staffing companies, and payroll providers scale their operations through specialized offshore teams and process automation. With more than 30 years of experience across payroll, HR technology, PEOs, and operational leadership, John brings a practical operator's perspective to conversations around HR operations, AI, and the future of work. Brought to You by Paylocity: Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: cost to serve, HR metrics, CFO relationship, finance and HR, business process outsourcing, HR outsourcing, turnover cost, cost per hire, regrettable turnover, HR budget, AI in HR, HR technology, process automation, Six Sigma, ISO 9001, offshore teams, PEO, payroll, workforce metrics, HR leadership

Leave of absence looks like paperwork until you're the one holding it. A request lands, and you're reading federal, state, local, and company policy against each other while an employee waits on an answer during the worst week of their year. Rachel Wyngaard, Senior Product Manager at Mitratech, worked in HR, talent acquisition, and recruiting before moving into product. She now leads the build and launch of Mitratech Leave, an AI-powered leave of absence intelligence platform. In this episode, she breaks down: Why leave requests keep climbing while HR headcount stays flat, and what that gap does to case quality How the tactical thing HR asks a vendor for differs from the root need sitting underneath it What changes when you design HR software for the worst day of the quarter instead of the ideal one Timestamps [00:00:16] Rachel's path from recruiting and talent acquisition into product leadership at Mitratech [00:01:01] The three problems running at once inside every leave case, and why only one of them is paperwork [00:01:41] The employee at the center of a leave case is living through surgery or a family emergency, not filing a request [00:02:14] Leave volume climbed for more than half of employers last year and staffing never followed [00:02:35] New and updated laws add qualifying reasons, stacking questions, and complexity to every single case [00:03:40] The gap between what HR asks a product team to build and what HR needs it to solve [00:04:11] What goes wrong when teams hand leave to an outside administrator, and why the liability stays home [00:05:29] Rachel's product rule: design for the most stressful version of the interaction [00:06:42] The one change small teams can make this quarter without buying anything [00:07:00] Headcount thresholds, new states, and a remote workforce that moves all change your leave obligations Guest Bio Rachel Wyngaard is a Senior Product Manager at Mitratech with a focus on building HR technology to solve real workforce problems. With deep roots in HR and talent acquisition, she brings both practitioner perspective and product expertise to the Leave of Absence space, and is currently leading the build and launch of Mitratech Leave, an AI-powered leave of absence intelligence platform. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: leave of absence, leave management, HR compliance, FMLA, state leave laws, absence management, leave administration, employee experience, HR technology, product management, talent acquisition, case management, compliance risk, small HR teams, remote workforce, multi-state employers, HR operations, AI in HR

Retention sits near the top of almost every HR priority list. The main tool most organizations use to understand it is a conversation with someone who has already quit. Jim Link is the Chief Human Resources Officer at SHRM, the largest HR professional association in the world with more than 340,000 members. Before SHRM, he spent three decades in HR at GE, Porsche, and Randstad, where he held full HR accountability for a $5.2 billion business with up to 100,000 employees. In this episode, he covers: • Why the reasons your best performers stay are usually a different list from the reasons other people leave, and what that does to a retention plan built on exit data • How a written performance review becomes a static record that can work against the organization later, especially when the rating feeds a compensation formula • What SHRM's 2026 State of the Workplace report found about employee experience, including a 91% to 44% split in reported job satisfaction Timestamps [00:01:17] Turning the exit interview into a stay interview, and asking the people you want to keep what's keeping them there [00:01:38] Why leaders wrongly assume stay interviews will produce the mirror image of exit interview answers [00:02:22] Knowing one personal fact about every person on your team, and why that single connection changes how you manage [00:03:39] Separating performance ratings from compensation, and what happens when a 2.3 out of 5 turns into a .06% raise [00:05:39] How an overly glowing written review becomes a bad fact if the employee later exits under performance or restructuring [00:07:32] Employees and employers both know today's skills won't carry forward five years, which makes the gap solvable [00:09:10] The risk of cutting headcount before anyone in the organization understands what AI can actually do [00:12:02] What separates organizations moving the needle on manager development from the ones running the same programs every year [00:13:48] SHRM research showing 91% job satisfaction where workplace needs get addressed, against 44% where they don't [00:15:29] Treating stress and burnout as an organizational liability a CHRO is expected to manage Guest Bio Jim Link is the Chief Human Resources Officer for SHRM. With more than 340,000 members around the world, SHRM is the largest HR professional association in the world and the leading voice for matters related to workers and the workplace. Prior to joining SHRM, Link's career included roles of increasing responsibility across a variety of industries and companies including General Electric, the Pillsbury Company, Porsche Cars, and Randstad. While at Randstad North America, he led a global team of 150 HR professionals who were instrumental in transforming the company into an award-winning, inclusive, and sustainable global leader. Link consistently demonstrates dynamic and visionary thought leadership with a variety of presentations focusing on the interconnection between effective human capital management and business results. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: stay interviews, exit interviews, employee retention, performance management, continuous feedback, compensation strategy, internal mobility, upskilling, AI in the workplace, critical thinking skills, manager development, middle managers, employee experience, State of the Workplace, burnout, workplace stress, SHRM, CHRO, HR leadership, talent strategy

A little less than half of workers now use AI regularly on the job. Of that group, 44% admit the output looks finished on the surface and holds nothing underneath. SHRM has a name for it: work slop. Dr. James Atkinson is VP of Thought Leadership at SHRM, where he leads the research teams behind that finding. He spent nine years at Gartner, finishing as Managing Vice President of Data Products for its HR research practice, and ran data products at Payscale before joining SHRM. James walks through SHRM's Skills Revolution research in this conversation. Read the full report here: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/research/skills-revolution-preparing-employees-tomorrows-jobs In this episode, he covers: • Why CFOs approve people investments framed as productivity gained and cost avoided, and why SHRM's navigating the C-suite research found finance leaders want that case backed by workforce data • How 44% of AI users admit to producing work slop, and where HR can step in to define what good output looks like • What SHRM's Skills Revolution research says about learning and development systems that can't track how fast skills are changing Timestamps [00:01:01] Why the labor market is uneven rather than hot or cold, and why the last two months shouldn't set your expectations [00:01:51] Healthcare keeps adding jobs as the population ages while federal employment declines and local government picks back up [00:03:13] Framing a people investment as a business opportunity with a productivity number and a cost number attached [00:04:49] SHRM's navigating the C-suite research: CFOs want the ROI spelled out and backed by workforce data [00:05:34] Turnover as the metric finance already understands, because a role sitting empty is a day of lost productivity [00:06:11] Ask your executives how they want to be presented to before you build the deck [00:06:48] Just under half of workers use AI regularly, and 44% of them admit to producing work slop [00:07:28] Why AI needs guardrails and how managers become the people who say what good looks like [00:09:12] The Skills Revolution research: skills are changing faster than learning and development systems can follow [00:11:10] Why skills inventories still haven't replaced job descriptions, and what might finally move that Guest Bio James Atkinson is the VP, Thought Leadership at SHRM, where he leads research teams uncovering key insights on the challenges and trends affecting HR and the workplace. James joined SHRM with more than 15 years of research, data, and product experience, having spent a decade in various leadership roles within the HR industry. Prior to SHRM, James was the Vice President of Data Products at Payscale, where he was responsible for the overall strategy, development, and delivery of data products for compensation professionals. He also spent 9 years at Gartner, finishing his tenure there as the Managing Vice President of Data Products for the HR research and advisory practice. Across his career, his teams have created award-winning research and data products for HR executives and their teams on topics including learning and development, total rewards, recruiting, talent management, HR strategy, HR technology, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. This work has been featured in top business journals and media outlets such as Harvard Business Review, Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. James holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Ohio State University. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: SHRM research, labor market outlook, work slop, AI guardrails, HR ROI, CFO conversations, workforce data, skills revolution, learning and development, career development, employee attrition, talent retention, healthcare hiring, HR strategy, skills inventory, job descriptions, people analytics, workforce planning, HR Mixtape

Most HR teams have already run their AI experiments. A pilot here, a policy draft there. Turning that scattered activity into something people actually use on a Tuesday is a completely different problem. In this episode: Why the biggest available gains from AI now come from teams working with it together, not individuals getting better at prompting How to pick a first project by finding the rock in your shoe instead of announcing a sweeping overhaul nobody asked forWhat the three Cs (crisis, commitment, and conflict) tell you about where AI should never touch an employee interaction Timestamps [00:01:52] What an AI catalyst actually does inside an HR function, and why the job changed from building fluency to driving adoption [00:02:49] Why HR teams that feel behind on AI are not, and what the range across SHRM's membership really looks like [00:03:53] Finding the rock in your shoe, and why the most annoying problem beats the most sophisticated one as a starting point [00:07:29] Nichol's dictation method for getting a model to write her prompts, including asking for a McKinsey-style or Fast Company-style prompt [00:08:15] How vibe teaming works, including the AI wrangler role, the facilitator role, and the transcript loop that feeds the group's corrections back in [00:10:08] The loneliness problem created by heavy individual AI use, and the 70-page proposal exchange that illustrates it [00:11:22] Over 44% of people use AI daily and nearly as many run into work slop daily, and what a biweekly team session does about it [00:12:44] Eight executive assistants who used vibe teaming remotely to redesign how their C-suite works together [00:15:09] The three Cs guardrail: crisis, commitment, and conflict are the moments to keep AI out of entirely [00:17:19] Why people can always tell whether a real human was on the other side, even when they can't identify AI-generated text Guest Bio Nichol Bradford is a futurist, investor, and executive with more than 20 years across technology and human potential. Her mission is to strengthen humanity's mental, emotional, and social health (MESH) as the foundation for innovation and progress. She reaches over 100,000 people annually through thought leadership and public speaking, including TEDx. As SHRM's AI + HI Executive-in-Residence, Bradford shapes global strategies that reach 362 million workers and their families through 340,000 HR professionals in 180 countries. In June 2025 she founded and launched Human Tech Week, which drew 250 speakers and more than 1,200 attendees in its first year. That event grew out of TransformativeTech.org, the global community she co-founded and built to members in 72 countries. She also co-founded Niremia Collective, a venture fund backing the future of human potential. Bradford works at the seam between advanced technology and deep human need, with a focus on human-centered AI adoption. Before this, she operated World of Warcraft in China. Today she runs the largest network for human potential technology. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: AI adoption in HR, responsible AI, vibe teaming, collective intelligence, work slop, AI guardrails, human potential, SHRM, AI catalyst, HR technology, team productivity, prompting, talent acquisition AI, performance management, employee experience, change management, workforce wellbeing, human-centered AI, Nichol Bradford, HR Mixtape

Most HR professionals treat the annual retirement plan review like a status update. The advisor presents, the team nods, and everyone gets back to the work they actually understand. The plan keeps running. Probably. Andrew Farrell, Retirement Plan Advisor at North County Wealth, has spent 20 years working with businesses on plan design, compliance, and the advisor relationship. He's watched the same dynamic play out across organizations of every size: HR teams that know everything about their company but defer entirely on the plan. In this episode, he breaks down: Why HR is already a subject matter expert in the room, and how to use that expertise to get more out of every advisor meeting How to draw a clear line between what HR should own and what should get handed off the moment it leaves the building Why missed payroll contributions are the most common retirement plan compliance failure, and the simple calendar habit that catches them before they become a problem Timestamps [00:00:39] Where HR's ownership starts in the retirement plan decision chain, from matching rates to enrollment [00:02:00] Why getting employees enrolled early is HR's most impactful retirement plan move, and why starting late is the primary headwind in savings [00:03:32] When auto-enrollment creates more administrative burden than it's worth, and the specific scenario where high turnover changes the math [00:05:08] The "excess deference" dynamic: why HR professionals hand over authority in advisor meetings they should be keeping [00:06:17] Why your plan advisor needs your company knowledge as much as you need their 401(k) expertise, and what a conversation of equals actually looks like [00:07:00] Asking your advisor to teach you something, and why using their availability is part of what you're paying for [00:08:18] The front door rule: what HR should own in plan administration and what to hand off the moment it leaves the building [00:11:19] Why missed payroll contributions are the most common compliance failure, and how to build the redundancy and calendar checks that catch them [00:15:38] Why "no" is a valid answer when your advisor pitches new plan features, and the ongoing operational cost of adding any bell or whistle [00:18:40] What "fiduciary" actually means, how to know if you're a named one, and the four primary duties that come with it Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: 401k, 403b, retirement plan, fiduciary responsibility, HR compliance, auto-enrollment, plan advisor, payroll contributions, benefit design, retirement savings, plan document, financial wellness, employee benefits, retirement readiness, plan sponsor, benefits administration, excess deference, contribution timing, investment liability, HR strategy

Most founders treat culture as a launch-phase item: define the values, hire people who believe in the mission, and trust that early momentum carries it forward. It does, for a while. But as the team grows, the distance between the CEO and the day-to-day experience of employees widens quietly, and the gap between what's on the website and what employees actually live starts to show. Jeannie Kidera, CEO of Kidera Culture Consulting, uses Gallup-backed research methods to help mission-driven companies turn employee listening data into concrete leadership action. Her practice is built on one argument she's made dozens of times: culture isn't a morale issue, it's a revenue line. In this episode, she covers: Why the disengaged employee who stays costs up to 34% of their annual salary every year, a figure that outweighs the turnover number most HR leaders already track How to translate an engagement argument into a money argument, and why that reframe is the most important skill an HR leader can bring to a C-suite conversation What a 90-day culture improvement plan actually looks like: the Gallup 12, one focused pain point, a pulse survey, and an action plan communicated back to employees so change is visible Timestamps [00:01:19] How teaching literature, and specifically asking "what's the subtext," directly maps to the skills needed for employee listening and interpreting between employees and leaders [00:03:33] The four Gallup stats every HR leader should have ready: 23% higher profitability, 20% higher sales, 17% greater productivity, and 10% higher customer loyalty in top-quartile engagement companies [00:05:01] The most common culture mistake founders make without realizing it: assuming that hiring mission-aligned people is enough to sustain and build culture as the company scales [00:06:00] Why rapid growth forces founders to look outward, creating a belief that culture is a soft part of business strategy rather than a direct revenue driver [00:06:42] The Gallup stat that rarely makes it into culture conversations: a disengaged employee who stays costs up to 34% of their annual salary every year, and that number compounds across teams [00:08:16] Why responding to employee survey data matters far more than collecting it, and why ignoring results is actually worse for engagement than not asking at all [00:11:28] How internal communication functions as a core component of employee experience, including why word choice, "subordinates" versus "team members," alters both morale and culture [00:12:15] How to turn an empathy-based engagement argument into a money argument, and the Gallup stat that should anchor every culture conversation with leadership [00:15:39] What it actually takes to live your company values: leadership modeling, public acknowledgment, values alignment assessments, and policies that match what you say you believe [00:18:31] Jeannie's 90-day culture improvement plan: start with the Gallup 12, identify one pain point, run a focused pulse survey, build an action plan with named owners and deadlines, and communicate it back to employees Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: employee engagement, Gallup research, culture consulting, employee experience, mission-driven companies, startup culture, culture as revenue driver, disengagement cost, values alignment, internal communications, employee listening, 90-day culture plan, action planning, pulse surveys, people analytics, retention, people-first culture, culture ROI, HR leadership, founder culture

Revenue growth is the metric every business celebrates. Record quarters become press releases, and the top line becomes a proxy for health. But when the revenue line on a P&L keeps climbing while the profit line doesn't, growth stops being a sign of success and starts functioning as a cover story. Ben Hansen, CEO of Profit Doctor and founder of an 8-figure staffing firm, built a team of over 100 employees in eight years while maintaining profitable growth. He now works with companies earning between $2 and $50 million in annual revenue, and most see meaningful profit improvements within 12 weeks. In this episode, he covers: Why growth often hides profit problems rather than solving them, and the P&L signals that reveal the gap before it gets painful How to align middle management incentives around profitability rather than revenue alone, including real-world examples that work at the rank-and-file level What HR leaders should do before entering cost-cutting conversations, and how to frame the employee value trade-off in a way that gets real buy-in Timestamps [00:00:37] Defining profititis: when top-line revenue is strong but net profitability is weak, declining, or sick [00:01:25] Why growth often hides profit problems rather than solving them, and what owners typically deprioritize in the process [00:03:14] The most common root cause of profititis: serving customers and offering products outside your core sweet spot [00:04:37] A cyclical approach to balancing innovation with staying in your profitable lane [00:05:42] Why people spend hurts profitability at two levels: payroll growth rate and the quality and fit of talent [00:08:28] Why HR should do the cost-benefit analysis on every program before walking into the cost-cutting meeting [00:09:35] Ben's approach with his own 100-person team: asking employees whether they'd rather have higher salary or richer benefits [00:12:19] Why incentivizing managers on revenue while hoping they'll protect profit guarantees misaligned behavior [00:14:05] Translating a financial target into a metric the whole team can act on: the revenue-per-labor-hour example [00:19:27] The construction company that went from break-even for 20 years to 20%+ net profit in nine months by communicating labor budgets Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: Ben Hansen, Profit Doctor, profititis, profit margins, revenue growth, cost-benefit analysis, HR cost-cutting, employee compensation, talent quality, incentive alignment, middle management, nonprofit finance, mission-driven organizations, payroll efficiency, P&L management, contribution margin, labor productivity, cost reduction, business profitability, workforce metrics

Most CHROs have a fraud problem they didn't sign up for. Deepfakes in video interviews. Synthetic IDs at the application stage. AI-generated credentials that pass every automated screen. Only 31% of CHROs say they're confident in their ability to prevent hiring fraud, and the technology making it easier gets more sophisticated every quarter. Nik Daruwala, Vice President of Sales at Checkr, has spent 21 years in B2B technology sales, including thousands of direct conversations with HR leaders trying to protect their hiring funnels without losing speed. Checkr powers background verification for Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart, and was the first API in the background check industry. In this episode, he covers: Why hiring fraud appears at every stage of the funnel, from the initial application through post-hire monitoring, and what a continuous identity verification strategy actually looks like in practice How CHROs should be thinking about partnering with their CISO to address a risk that's moved from the cyber stack into the talent pipeline https://thehrmixtape.com/episodes/trust-at-speed-hiring-fraud-deepfakes-and-the-identity-risks-chros-cant-ignore-with-nik-daruwala Why the speed-versus-safety trade-off in hiring is a false choice, and what good looks like when both coexist in the same program Timestamps [00:00:39] Context: this conversation was recorded live at the Checkr booth at SHRM 2026 [00:01:01] How enterprise hiring changed over 24 years: global sourcing, the normalization of remote hiring, and why the explosion of application volume made quality screening harder [00:02:50] The CHRO anxiety most people aren't talking about: making sure candidates throughout the funnel are actually who they claim to be [00:04:13] Only 31% of CHROs have confidence in their ability to prevent hiring fraud, and why the AI tools now available to candidates are changing that threat surface fast [00:04:39] The three identity threats CHROs weren't trained for: deepfakes in interviews, synthetic IDs at the application stage, and AI-generated credentials that pass automated screens [00:06:44] Why most organizations are reactive on hiring fraud, and the parallel to the early days of cybersecurity: you don't prioritize it until you have your first incident [00:08:42] Where fraud actually shows up across the hiring funnel: application, interview, background check, and continuously post-hire [00:09:41] The speed-versus-compliance trade-off is a false choice, and why the best hiring programs don't ask their teams to make it [00:13:27] Nik on what it actually means for trust to be a competitive advantage, and why that should be the north star for every hiring program [00:16:00] The two-to-three year horizon: AI automating talent sourcing and administrative tasks, continuous monitoring as table stakes, and why the hiring decision stays human Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: hiring fraud, background checks, identity verification, deepfakes, synthetic IDs, AI-generated credentials, CHRO priorities, talent pipeline security, hiring at scale, continuous monitoring, background screening, hiring compliance, HR technology, Checkr, credential fraud, HR risk management, fraud prevention, remote hiring risk, AI in hiring, talent operations

When performance problems show up at work, most organizations respond by adding something: a new policy, more training, another initiative. But those problems usually aren't what they look like. What gets logged as a performance issue is often a nervous system response to culture, and no policy fixes a nervous system. Shenandoah Chefalo, Trauma Informed Systems Change Consultant at Chefalo Consulting and author of Garbage Bag Suitcase, has spent 20+ years helping organizations apply what we know about trauma to how they lead, drawing on both rigorous research in adverse childhood experiences and her own experience aging out of foster care at 18. In this episode, she covers: Why what looks like a performance problem is usually a nervous system problem caused by culture, and why that changes the intervention entirely How the community meeting practice from Dr. Sandra Bloom creates felt safety through ritualized behavior, so hard conversations stop feeling like surprises Why the first move in any culture change effort should be asking what you can stop doing before adding anything new Timestamps [00:01:40] Shenandoah's personal story: 50 moves, 35 schools, and self-reporting into foster care at 13 with the hope of an Annie ending [00:04:00] Aging out at 18 mid-senior year, hiding her foster care background, and taking eight years to finish her undergrad degree [00:05:22] How 20+ years of organizational culture change work grew out of lived experience and timing with the adverse childhood experience research [00:07:37] A corrections officer's observation that reframed everything: "It's hard to know who the bars are holding in" [00:08:05] Every organization says it wants emotionally intelligent employees, but almost no organization wants to talk about feelings at work [00:10:20] What looks like a performance problem is usually a nervous system problem caused by the culture, not the individual [00:11:31] Why modeling repair work is the most powerful thing a leader can do to maintain trust and keep small things from becoming big ones [00:13:19] The transparency framework for building felt safety: share what you know, what you don't, what's decided today, and what needs to come back [00:15:11] The critical difference between feeling unsafe ("if I say this I might get fired") and feeling uncomfortable ("I have something hard to say") [00:19:01] The community meeting practice from Dr. Sandra Bloom: three questions that normalize emotional check-ins so hard conversations stop being exceptional Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: trauma-informed leadership, felt safety, psychological safety, repair work, culture change, nervous system regulation, community meeting practice, adverse childhood experiences, burnout prevention, employee retention, middle manager development, mental health at work, transparency in leadership, workplace wellbeing, accountability, HR leadership, Shenandoah Chefalo, Chefalo Consulting, Garbage Bag

Most change initiatives fail not because the strategy was wrong but because the communication didn't move anyone. HR leaders deliver their message, check the box, and wonder why nothing shifted. The problem almost never lives in the data. It lives in the absence of story. Mary Czarnecki, Brand Messaging Consultant at Mary Czarnecki LLC, spent more than two decades in marketing and strategy at Johnson & Johnson, WebMD, and Accenture before building a practice that trains leaders at Fortune 500 companies to use story as a practical tool for influence and organizational change. In this episode, she covers: Why more information alone can't produce behavior change, and what story does that information can't How to identify where people are getting stuck before looking for a story, so the narrative actually closes the right gap The three ingredients in any story that actually lands: a specific moment, sensory details, and a clear arc from before to after Timestamps [00:00:16] What it means to help leaders turn ideas into influence, and why storytelling is the vehicle [00:01:49] Why change initiatives fail because of communication, not strategy, and how story closes that gap [00:02:31] The first step in storytelling most leaders skip: identifying what someone isn't getting before finding a story [00:04:11] What the HR Story Advantage actually means, and why knowing the facts about a habit doesn't create the habit [00:07:47] How to find the right story when you're the messenger, not the creator of the message [00:09:43] Balancing transparency and oversharing: the audience-centric gut check that keeps stories from backfiring [00:12:47] The bad perm story: a client example of how a personal, humble story got an entire sales team to bring their own stories [00:16:42] Where AI helps with storytelling and the one trap to avoid when using it [00:18:10] The most common communication mistake leaders make today: building a message without putting yourself in the audience's shoes first [00:19:29] The treasure trove habit: why the best communicators don't find stories on demand, they collect them over time Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: storytelling, leadership communication, change management, HR strategy, influence without authority, organizational change, internal communication, narrative, employee engagement, communication skills, HR leadership, people strategy, trust building, audience-centric communication, Mary Czarnecki, behavior change, change communication, HR story advantage, story structure, workplace storytelling

Most organizations assume they have resilient teams. What they actually have, in a lot of cases, are teams that have gotten good at tolerating hard things. The two aren't the same, and the gap becomes visible the moment something real changes. Aaron Golub, founder of Aaron Golub Consulting, made history as the first legally blind Division I athlete to play in a Division I game, serving as team captain at Tulane University before signing with the NFL as a free agent. He's been translating that lived experience into leadership development work since the age of 17. In this episode, he covers: • Why acceptance is the prerequisite to any real change, and how skipping it is the reason most leadership development doesn't stick • How to read what each person on your team actually needs, and why applying the same leadership approach to everyone is the core mistake • Why the next generation of leaders is too comfortable, and what that costs organizations when pressure finally arrives Timestamps [00:00:16] Aaron Golub's origin story: how becoming the first legally blind Division I athlete became a leadership framework, not just a personal victory [00:01:10] Why the football story is the vehicle, not the point, and how Aaron translates a personal resilience model into organizational change [00:02:16] The acceptance principle: why you can't form new perspectives around a challenge you haven't first acknowledged as real [00:03:57] What leading a Division I football team taught Aaron about the danger of applying one leadership style to every person [00:06:48] Why every engagement starts with a needs assessment, and why skipping it makes the work ineffective regardless of how good the content is [00:08:18] Gratitude-based leadership: why positivity and negativity both spread through an organization, and the four-step framework that gets you there [00:11:00] Why inclusion starts with asking, not assuming, and the airport wheelchair story that shows what happens when you don't [00:13:10] Aaron's case against automatic visual descriptions in meetings, and why well-intentioned practices can create the tension they're meant to prevent [00:17:14] Why the next generation of leaders is too comfortable, and what organizations lose because of it [00:20:42] Aaron's final takeaway: reframing "I can't" to "I haven't been able to yet," and why the language shift is the strategy Guest Bio Aaron Golub is a professional speaker, entrepreneur, and consultant who specializes in helping to shatter perceived limitations. He made history as the first legally blind Division I athlete to play in a game, serving as a team captain at Tulane University before moving on to the NFL as a free agent. After his story captured the national spotlight on Good Morning America, Aaron realized his journey wasn't just about football, it was a blueprint for resilience. Since the age of 17, he has traveled the globe delivering high-impact strategies that challenge teams to rethink their "impossible" and take immediate action. Aaron doesn't just deliver a keynote and leave; he is a dedicated partner who works alongside leadership to implement lasting change and ensure insights turn into results. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com paylocity.com Keywords resilience, limiting beliefs, leadership development, gratitude-based leadership, inclusion, disability in the workplace, people management, team building, change management, performance management, employee engagement, psychological safety, workplace culture, HR strategy, personal development, adversity, blind athlete, resilient teams, organizational change, discomfort

Most organizations solve the wrong problem when they go global. They get the infrastructure right, find the talent, and figure out the cost model. Then the offshore team quietly drifts from the core org, and nobody quite knows why. Ingo Piroth, Chief Revenue Officer at Emapta, has spent 30 years in global delivery and workforce transformation working with enterprise clients across multiple continents. His framework for what actually makes offshore teams succeed goes well beyond the basics. In this episode, he covers: Why connection, context, and commitment are the real performance drivers in distributed teams, and how cultural integration design makes each one possible from day one How to structure the first 30 days of a global team integration so you build momentum and confidence rather than confusion and attrition Why the most common myth about offshore talent, that geography limits capability, is the belief that costs organizations access to some of their strongest people Timestamps [00:00:54] Why culture is now the key differentiator in outsourcing, after infrastructure, talent, and cost barriers have largely been solved [00:02:05] How to design cultural integration from scratch using shared rituals, communication channels, and recognition of local cultural moments [00:03:04] Real examples of shared identity: embracing Philippine Christmas in September and Colombian Semana Santa alongside US holidays [00:04:05] The biggest planning mistake leaders make when setting up offshore teams, and why treating it as cost arbitrage guarantees trouble [00:06:02] Why "treat offshore like it's your core business" is the philosophy that makes the mechanics of distributed work actually function [00:08:26] Time zones as a design challenge, not a barrier: intentional overlap by function, async communication, and protecting personal time [00:09:28] Why recognition has to be personal, not procedural, and why global employee-of-the-month programs fall flat [00:13:08] The first-30-day playbook for global teams: why speed of clarity determines speed of performance [00:15:05] Why global talent wants careers, not just roles, and what succession planning actually looks like in an offshore environment [00:19:58] The biggest myth about offshore talent, and why companies that treat offshore as strategic consistently outperform those that don't Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: global workforce, outsourcing, offshoring, distributed teams, workforce transformation, cultural integration, global talent, HR leadership, people strategy, recognition, succession planning, offshore teams, cross-cultural management, employee engagement, retention, global delivery, talent management, culture design, time zone management, Emapta

In most industries, culture lives in your annual engagement survey. In hospitality, it walks out to the dining room every single night. It shows up in how your server handles a difficult table, in the energy at the host stand, and in whether your team feels taken care of or just managed. Donna Giarratana, Director of Human Resources at Baldi Management Group and founder of MoxeeHR, LLC, has built people-first HR systems across some of the country's most demanding hospitality environments, including the three-Michelin-star Inn at Little Washington and the José Andrés Group. In this episode, she shares what actually moves the needle: Why the parallel between how guests want to feel and how employees want to feel is a management strategy, not a metaphor How to build attendance policies that are fair, equitable, documentable, and still genuinely human What engagement actually looks like across very different worker populations, from career hospitality professionals to first-job team members Timestamps [00:01:03] Donna's origin story: from hostess to HR leader in hospitality [00:01:24] Why culture shows up differently in hospitality than in knowledge work environments [00:01:53] The parallel between what guests and employees both want: to feel seen, acknowledged, and cared for [00:03:41] Debunking myths about leading restaurant teams across multiple generations [00:06:05] What "pouring into your people" actually looks like in daily restaurant operations [00:08:10] Building attendance policies that balance compliance requirements with human compassion [00:12:41] How to develop managers on the spot when desk-based training isn't realistic [00:15:57] Early burnout signals to watch before turnover becomes a problem, including the "clopen" pattern [00:19:11] How engagement needs differ significantly between lifers and newer team members [00:22:11] Donna's single takeaway for every hospitality leader today Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: hospitality HR, high-turnover workforce, people-first culture, restaurant management, attendance policy, progressive discipline, manager development, employee engagement, generational workforce, lifers, onboarding, retention, burnout prevention, clopens, EAP resources, compliance, workforce planning, cultural transformation

Most organizations treat meetings as the default answer to everything, but that's costing you more than you think. Rebecca Hinds, Head of the Work AI Institute at Glean, researcher, and author of YOUR BEST MEETING EVER, brings a product design mindset to the most expensive form of collaboration in your org. She shares how to spot meeting dysfunction, use AI to audit your calendar, and make intentional changes that actually stick. In this episode: • Why meetings have become the 'junk drawer' of organizational communication, and how visibility bias keeps the habit alive. • How to use return on time investment (ROTI) scoring, meeting minimalism, and shared language to redesign your meeting culture. • The role AI and data play in building the business case for calendar reform, especially with a skeptical C-suite. Timestamps [00:01:10] Why Rebecca went all-in on meeting research and the psychology of visibility bias. [00:02:19] The meeting junk drawer: why meetings become the default for everything. [00:04:39] Treating meetings like a product, including the concept of meeting debt. [00:06:26] Return on time investment (ROTI): a data-driven way to rate your meetings. [00:08:16] How leadership buy-in determines how boldly you can reform your calendar. [00:08:56] Using AI to build meeting calculators and get C-suite buy-in. [00:10:52] Making the business case by anchoring on what the most powerful person cares about. [00:13:54] Building psychological safety so people feel empowered to flag bad meetings. [00:16:36] Shared language for meeting dysfunction, including Meeting Doomsday and meeting minimalism. [00:21:05] The one thing every leader can do this week: intentional design across four meeting dimensions. Guest Bio Rebecca Hinds is the author of YOUR BEST MEETING EVER, a leading expert on organizational behavior and the future of work, founder of the Work Innovation Lab at Asana and the Work AI Institute at Glean. She holds a BS, MS, and PhD from Stanford University. Her research is consistently featured in top-tier publications like Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Wired, and more. She is a trusted advisor to companies navigating the challenges of modern work, from meeting overload and hybrid dysfunction to the messy realities of AI adoption and organizational change. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: meetings, meeting culture, organizational behavior, future of work, meeting debt, return on time investment, psychological safety, AI, calendar reform, Meeting Doomsday, meeting minimalism, collaboration, HR leadership, Rebecca Hinds, HR Mixtape

Most high performers don't get passed over because of what they know. They get passed over because of how they lead. In this episode, Dr. Bushra Khan makes the case that emotional intelligence isn't a soft skill, it's the strategic operating system every leader needs right now, especially as AI reshapes what work looks like. In this conversation, she breaks down: Why 'be more strategic' on a performance review usually means something specific and fixable. How influence actually works in the brain, and why title alone won't get people to go above and beyond. A concrete KPI approach for measuring emotional intelligence that most organizations aren't tracking yet. Timestamps [00:00:42] Emotional intelligence as the operating system for the future of work [00:02:30] Why 'soft skills' is out — and 'strategic skills' is in [00:03:10] How technical experts plateau: the real meaning of 'not strategic enough' [00:05:47] What 'be more strategic' is actually code for [00:07:26] Micromanagement as a symptom of not knowing how to teach others [00:09:09] The Peter Principle in action: when great individual contributors struggle to lead [00:12:19] Why title doesn't equal influence — and what builds rapport instead [00:16:55] Integrity in leadership: what it looks like when leaders actually walk the walk [00:17:15] How to give feedback that makes people better, not defensive [00:19:57] Measuring emotional intelligence: the KPI framework most orgs are missing Guest Bio: Dr. Bushra Khan is a founder, educator, and leadership expert with over 15 years of experience in organizational development and adult learning. With a doctorate in Educational Leadership, deep research in emotional intelligence alongside global experts, and the creation of a top-rated executive leadership program (clients include Google, Government of Canada, and ERCOT), her impact is both measurable and deeply human. Dr. Khan helps high-performing professionals strengthen their strategic capabilities, lead with integrity, turn their expertise into meaningful influence, and shape their leadership philosophy. She describes her work as a calm, compelling signal in the noise — a space where leaders come for clarity, rising professionals see possibility, and organizations recognize that emotional intelligence isn't a nice-to-have: it's the operating system for the future of work. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: emotional intelligence, EQ, leadership, strategic skills, soft skills, HR leadership, performance management, people management, coaching, micromanagement, influence, integrity, feedback, AI and leadership, KPIs, organizational culture, future of work, Dr. Bushra Khan, HR Mixtape, Paylocity

What does it really take to hire and retain people across a workforce that's part office, part shop floor? Jason Lerner, HR Director at Groundwater Treatment and Technology, has spent his career doing exactly that. He's grown his current company from fewer than 300 employees to more than 500 across six states, and he's cracked the code on attracting, developing, and keeping talent in grey industries, where blue-collar and white-collar work exist side by side. In this episode, Jason and Dr. Shari Simpson dig into the skills gap hiding in plain sight, why Gen Z is more suited for grey-collar work than most people think, and how accountability is actually a retention tool, not a threat. Key takeaways: • Why candidates with non-traditional backgrounds may be your best hire, and how to screen for it in the interview. • How to build clear career paths that satisfy Gen Z's need for growth without overpromising. • Why holding people accountable is one of the best things you can do for your top performers. Timestamps [00:00:00] Intro from The HR Mixtape announcer [00:00:41] Jason's non-traditional path: from sales to childcare to HR [00:03:10] Defining grey industries and why they matter right now [00:04:39] Skills transfer: helping candidates see their own potential [00:05:09] Real example of a shop employee who moved into engineering [00:08:35] Reformatting the interview process for non-traditional candidates [00:09:41] Taking candidates on a PPE tour before making an offer [00:11:23] Succession planning and why Gen Z fits into grey industries [00:13:32] Setting expectations and using accountability as a retention tool [00:17:00] Why credibility in the shop matters as much as HR expertise Guest Bio Motivating teams, building consensus, and creating a culture of honest and open communication are the tenets that have defined Jason Lerner's professional life. With a nuanced understanding of human behavior and a high degree of emotional intelligence, Jason leads by example and champions the performance and success of his team. Adept at transforming ideas into actionable programs and breaking down complex concepts into understandable parts, Jason is known as an agent of change and an executive who gets things done. He currently leads the HR function for a privately held transportation and logistics company, overseeing its expansion from fewer than 300 to more than 500 employees across six states. Committed to positioning HR as a strategic business partner, Jason collaborates with finance and executive leaders to advance the mission of the organization. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: grey industries, blue-collar hiring, white-collar hiring, workforce development, Gen Z retention, skills transfer, non-traditional candidates, succession planning, accountability, HR strategy, career pathing, grey-collar work, employee retention, interview process

Too many people treat resilience like a switch: either you have it or you don't. But what if the real way to build it is by showing up for hard things again and again, even in your off-hours? In this episode, fitness and wellness coach Nicole Zapoli draws a direct line from the weight room to the workplace, sharing how the discomfort you push through in a tough workout is the same mental muscle you call on when work gets hard. Nicole is a professional fitness coach, owner of NZ Fitness, and author of Live FIT From the Inside Out, with 25+ years of experience training athletes, busy parents, and working professionals around the world. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why "toughen up" is the least helpful thing you can say to someone struggling with resilience • How consistent physical training builds the mental framework to stay steady under workplace pressure • What leaders can borrow from great coaches: balancing honest feedback with genuine care to build trust that actually motivates performance [00:00:34] Nicole's background: from competitive fitness to resilience coaching [00:01:39] Why "just toughen up" misses the point of real resilience [00:02:08] How tough workouts train the mental muscle of resilience [00:03:37] Acknowledging discomfort vs. letting it stop you [00:05:50] Nicole's SHIFTS Framework and the power of daily habits [00:06:56] The stick-shift story: how steady, patient support changes everything [00:10:30] How leaders can become the calm, guiding voice for their teams [00:12:19] Balancing direct feedback with genuine care in the workplace [00:17:01] Why people respond better when they know you actually care [00:18:55] Closing thoughts: using trust to motivate and build resilience Nicole Zapoli is a professional fitness and wellness coach, owner of NZ Fitness, and author of Live FIT From the Inside Out: The 6 SHIFTS to Living Your Strongest, Healthiest, and Happiest Life. With over 25 years of experience, a Pro card in natural bodybuilding (Figure & Sports Model), and ranking among the top 5% CrossFit Games Open athletes, Nicole is a leading expert in holistic wellness, having trained thousands globally. Brought to You by Paylocity Paylocity is the fastest growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: resilience, workplace resilience, fitness coaching, mental health, HR leadership, daily habits, SHIFTS Framework, leadership development, employee wellbeing, performance culture, growth mindset, Nicole Zapoli, NZ Fitness, HR Mixtape, Paylocity

Your meetings are costing you more than you think. Between time lost to bad notes, missed context between conversations, and documents that take days instead of minutes, the hidden tax of poor meeting intelligence adds up fast. Artem Koren, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Sembly AI, is building the fix. His team started in 2019, well before AI was a buzzword, with one simple idea: if technology can understand what happens in a meeting, it can do a whole lot after one. In this episode, Shari and Artem unpack what it really takes to implement AI listening tools responsibly: How to vet AI vendors on security, and the questions that separate good tools from risky ones. Why transparency, not restriction, is the right answer to employee trust concerns. What a $100,000 investment in meeting AI actually returns, and why the number might surprise you. Timestamps 00:16 Artem introduces himself and Sembly AI's origin story 00:38 What 'augmented work' really means for everyday teams 02:05 How Sembly AI carries meeting context well beyond the call 03:00 Product deep dive: artifacts, agentic research, and infinite memory 04:52 Why context continuity changes everything for collaboration 05:35 Addressing security and data privacy concerns head-on 08:42 Table-stakes questions every buyer should ask an AI vendor 10:21 Sovereign data storage explained in plain English 13:35 Transparency in action: how Sembly AI makes its presence known 16:03 The ROI case: $2.5M return on a $100K investment Guest Bio Artem Koren is the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Sembly AI, a meeting intelligence platform that transforms conversations into actionable insights across Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and WebEx. Artem started Sembly in 2019 with a straightforward premise: technology that understands meetings can do far more useful work after them. Today, Sembly's agentic AI builds a living library of meeting content, generates documents from entire interview pipelines, and has been shown to deliver a 25x ROI for its customers. Artem is a vocal advocate for transparent, consent-driven AI, and brings a product builder's clarity to the complex questions organizations face when adopting AI in the workplace. Brought to you by Paylocity Paylocity is the fasted growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: meeting intelligence, Sembly AI, AI collaboration, HR technology, data privacy, SOC2, sovereign data storage, agentic AI, meeting ROI, AI vendor vetting, augmented work, change management, psychological safety, employee trust

Leaders are burning out quietly, and most organizations are still pretending it isn't happening. Mel Doman, organizational psychologist, author, and founder of the Workplace Mental Health Method, has spent years equipping leaders at Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce with the skills to have real conversations about mental health at work. In this episode, she breaks down why we've systematically dehumanized leaders, what that costs us, and what we can do about it right now. What you'll take away: Why leaders need a "fence, not a door" when it comes to emotional expression at work How gender-based emotion shaming affects everyone, regardless of gender identity What U.S. organizations can learn from the global concept of "duty of care" Timestamps 00:02 Intro: What is the HR Mixtape? 00:16 Mel's background: from clinical therapy to organizational psychology 01:06 The moment Mel decided to leave clinical work and why 03:38 Why shared language is the foundation of mental health conversations 04:48 Introducing Cornered Office and why she wrote it 08:20 Leaders are human too: the forgotten truth in organizations 09:30 The Nike/Air monologue and what it reveals about how we treat leaders 12:00 The fence, not a door: how leaders can navigate vulnerability and authority 13:03 Gender-based emotion shaming and why everyone is affected 18:54 What U.S. organizations can learn from global duty of care practices Guest Bio Mel Doman is an organizational psychologist, author, and founder of The Workplace Mental Health Method. A former licensed therapist, Mel made the shift from clinical practice in 2013 to tackle mental health at a systems level. She has since worked with global organizations including Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce, equipping leaders and teams with the conversational literacy they need to talk about mental health, communication, and team dynamics at work. She is the author of two books, including her latest, Cornered Office: Why We Need to Talk About Leadership Mental Health. Mel has lived and worked across the U.S., U.K., and internationally, giving her a uniquely global perspective on workplace culture. Brought to you by Paylocity Paylocity is the fasted growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: leadership mental health, workplace mental health, organizational psychology, HR podcast, Mel Doman, Cornered Office, duty of care, gender-based emotion shaming, employee wellbeing, people leaders, burnout, HR Mixtape, Paylocity

Your people strategy shouldn't be a support function. It should be a competitive advantage. In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson sits down with James Terry, Head of US Revenue at IndeedFlex, to talk about what it really means to build an agile, flexible workforce in today's labor market. James brings a frontline revenue perspective on how companies can stop treating staffing as a headache and start treating it as a growth lever. Here's what you'll take away: Why workforce flexibility isn't a perk but an untapped labor pool waiting to be activated How AI screening tools are helping recruiters review 80 interviews a day instead of 13, without losing the human element The data-first playbook HR leaders use to run pilots that actually change how operations teams think about shift patterns Timestamps 00:02 Intro — What HR Mixtape is all about 00:15 James Terry introduction and his role at IndeedFlex 01:07 Why staffing is a business survival issue, not just an HR problem 03:02 Hiring for the business vs. hiring for the role 04:05 How AI is reshaping recruiting when applications flood the funnel 08:11 Candidate perspectives on AI screening (and why 60-70% prefer it) 12:37 Removing interview bias and focusing on real skills 13:46 What an agile workforce actually looks like and who gets unlocked 17:53 The pilot program strategy that wins over skeptical operations teams 22:05 James's top takeaways: fall forward and dare to lead Guest Bio: James Terry is the Head of US Revenue at IndeedFlex, the contingent labor arm of Indeed. He specializes in helping businesses build more agile, flexible workforces, particularly in high-velocity industries like logistics, hospitality, and customer service. James brings a data-driven perspective to workforce strategy, championing the idea that HR professionals who speak the language of operations, and back it up with numbers, become some of the most valuable people in any organization. Brought to you by Paylocity Paylocity is the fasted growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: agile workforce, flexible staffing, contingent labor, AI recruiting, talent acquisition, workforce flexibility, HR strategy, IndeedFlex, pilot programs, shift patterns, Gen Z workforce, implicit bias, AI screening, turnover rate, data-driven HR, profit center HR

Most performance problems aren't about effort. They're about unclear expectations. When employees don't know exactly what they're responsible for, how much authority they actually have, or what happens when they hit it out of the park (or don't), the whole system breaks down. In this episode, you'll learn: Why trust and communication breakdowns are the real root cause of most organizational chaos, and how the Three-Legged Stool framework helps diagnose which leg is missing The two authority-blocking archetypes leaders fall into (the micromanager and the cowboy) and how both end up leaving employees without the space to grow or succeed A simple self-reflection exercise you can use this week to evaluate how you're setting expectations and recognizing your team Timestamps 00:02 Intro: What HR Mixtape is all about 00:16 Caroline's background and what she helps leaders solve 01:04 How 'people chaos' shows up in organizations: trust, communication, and the data trail it leaves behind 02:27 The Three-Legged Stool explained: responsibility, authority, and consequences 03:24 Which leg is missing most often, and why consequences get neglected 07:00 Why consequence clarity, both positive and negative, is the foundation of real accountability 11:20 Authority blockers in action: Shari's story about draft work, iteration, and the peek behind the curtain 12:42 The two authority-blocker archetypes: the micromanager and the authority cowboy 17:11 Why leadership development stays in the CHRO top five every year, and what's at stake if we don't fix it 20:56 One quick win this week: a self-reflection exercise for all three legs of the stool Guest: Caroline Quiett is the Principal of Quiett Consulting, LLC, where she helps leaders solve performance issues by building clear accountability structures, defined roles, and practical leadership systems. Drawing on deep curiosity about people and a genuine passion for untangling organizational complexity, Caroline developed the Three-Legged Stool framework to help leaders think more clearly about responsibility, authority, and consequences. She works with organizations of all sizes to restore trust, improve communication, and create environments where both people and performance can thrive. Brought to you by Paylocity. Paylocity is the fasted growing unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: accountability, performance management, leadership development, three-legged stool, responsibility, authority, consequences, people management, HR strategy, organizational culture, trust, communication, manager training, employee recognition

Most leaders are quietly using AI tools to get more done, but the real question isn't whether AI can automate tasks. It's whether your team can do the work AI can't: building relationships, pushing the frontier, and creating ideas that didn't exist before. Steven Puri, founder of The Sukha Company and a veteran of motion picture studios, three startups, and $20M in venture funding, brings a refreshingly grounded take on what humans need to protect in the age of LLMs. In this conversation, Dr. Shari Simpson and Steven Puri cover: • Why flow states are the human edge AI can't replicate, and how to build them into your team's schedule • How hiring for culture alignment (not just skills) is the real foundation for unlocking deep work • The difference between productive AI use and the 'foductivity' trap where tools create the illusion of output Timestamps 00:00:15 Steven's background: motion picture studios, $20M venture, three startups 00:02:00 What LLMs actually are and why they're the forcing function for workplace productivity 00:04:33 The jobs AI will replace first and why repetitive task workers should pay attention 00:06:00 The two futures of work: tech trillionaires vs. skilled laborers, and what's missing 00:07:56 Defining flow state: the psychology behind deep work and why it takes 20-23 minutes to enter 00:09:30 The river metaphor: how Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi defined flow and why it stuck 00:11:18 The interruption cost: why a single distraction sets you back 20+ minutes 00:13:16 Flow state conditions: why 'exploring Claude' doesn't count and what does 00:17:27 When a flow state app doesn't help: the meeting-heavy leader problem 00:21:00 The hiring argument: why culture alignment is the prerequisite for deep work on your team Guest: Steven Puri is the founder of The Sukha Company, a platform designed to help knowledge workers achieve flow states and do their best work. Steven has been a senior executive at multiple motion picture studios, raised over $20 million in venture capital, and built three startups, including one successful exit. He speaks and writes frequently on flow states, deep work, and what it means to do human-only work in an AI-saturated world. He's based in Austin, Texas. Reach him at steven@thesukha.co or explore the platform at thesukha.co. Powered By HR Mixtape is powered by Paylocity, the unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT. Paylocity brings your people, processes, and data together in one place so HR leaders can spend less time managing systems and more time doing the work that actually moves their organizations forward. Learn more at paylocity.com Keywords: flow states, deep work, AI in the workplace, LLMs, productivity, burnout prevention, knowledge work, hiring, culture fit, HR technology, employee wellbeing, focus, Steven Puri, The Sukha Company

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Madeline Kipperman, Human Resource Leader at Gorilla Glue, about the importance of leading with humanity in the workplace. They discuss how compassion and transparency can enhance leadership effectiveness, especially in high-pressure environments. Listeners will learn practical strategies for fostering trust and psychological safety among team members. • Understand the role of metrics in fostering conversations rather than just evaluating performance. • Recognize the importance of having difficult conversations with clarity and compassion. • Learn how to model humane leadership behaviors on the production floor. • Discover actionable steps to build trust when it is low among team members. • Identify the key elements that the next generation of employees seek in leadership. Timestamps: 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode and guest 00:52 -- The importance of leading with humanity 01:54 -- Metrics: helpful or harmful in leadership? 03:14 -- Example of leading with humanity vs. without 08:08 -- Coaching managers for difficult conversations 10:01 -- Leadership in high-pressure environments 12:09 -- Building trust and psychological safety 15:09 -- Transparency in communication with employees 18:02 -- What the next generation wants from leaders 19:17 -- Actionable steps for humane leadership Guest(s): Madeline Kipperman is a Human Resource Leader at Gorilla Glue. She specializes in HR strategy, workforce development, and leadership, bringing a frontline perspective to her role. Madeline has a strong commitment to fostering human potential in the workplace. Keywords: human leadership, workplace compassion, HR strategies, building trust, difficult conversations, employee engagement, metrics in HR, psychological safety, next generation workforce, leadership transparency

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Jillian Ambrose, Counsel at Crowell, about the urgent legal and compliance risks associated with using AI in hiring processes. As organizations increasingly adopt AI tools for recruitment, understanding the evolving landscape of state laws and potential biases is crucial. Listeners will gain insights into how to effectively engage with AI vendors, ensure compliance, and mitigate risks while leveraging AI for efficiency in hiring. • Understand the evolving patchwork of state laws affecting AI in hiring. • Learn key questions to ask AI vendors about their tools. • Discover the importance of conducting bias audits before using AI tools. • Recognize the need for human oversight in AI-driven hiring processes. • Identify best practices for communicating AI use to candidates. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:35 -- Importance of AI in hiring today 01:44 -- Legal and compliance risks of AI tools 02:32 -- Engaging with AI vendors effectively 03:40 -- Liability concerns for employers using AI 06:17 -- Addressing bias and disparate impact in AI 08:02 -- Governance and oversight of AI tools 09:23 -- The complexity of state laws on AI 10:19 -- Starting points for AI policy development 12:10 -- Balancing efficiency and legal compliance 13:05 -- Managing human oversight in AI processes 14:30 -- Baby steps for implementing AI in hiring 17:31 -- Communicating AI use to candidates 19:57 -- Future of regulation in AI hiring Guest(s): Jillian Ambrose, Counsel at Crowell. She advises employers on employment law, focusing on compliance and emerging workplace risks. Jillian has extensive experience navigating the complexities of AI in hiring and its legal implications. Keywords: AI in hiring, legal risks of AI, compliance with AI tools, bias in AI recruitment, engaging AI vendors, human oversight in hiring, state laws on AI, AI policy development, communicating AI to candidates, future of AI regulation

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Meghan Focht, Human Capital Director at Concurrency, about the intentional design of workplace culture. They discuss how to identify cultural strengths and weaknesses through values and behaviors, and how to implement systems that support a positive environment. Listeners will learn practical strategies for assessing their organization's culture and making meaningful changes. • Understand the importance of aligning values with behaviors in the workplace. • Identify key systems to evaluate when assessing organizational culture. • Learn how to create a culture of recognition that reinforces desired behaviors. • Discover ways to engage leaders in cultural conversations and accountability. • Explore practical steps to implement cultural changes in your organization. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:54 -- Meghan's experience with culture change 02:43 -- Key systems to assess culture 04:42 -- Linking values to behaviors and competencies 05:15 -- Hiring for cultural fit 06:19 -- Celebrating values through recognition programs 08:11 -- The role of technology in culture 10:39 -- Engaging leaders in cultural alignment 12:50 -- Identifying cultural misalignments 16:00 -- Signs of a healthy culture 17:55 -- Building values from scratch 19:39 -- Actionable steps for cultural improvement Guest(s): Meghan Focht is the Human Capital Director at Concurrency, where she focuses on developing strong people systems that foster growth and a positive culture. She has extensive experience in identifying and addressing cultural challenges within organizations. Meghan is passionate about creating environments that empower employees and enhance collaboration. Keywords: workplace culture, assessing culture, values and behaviors, recognition programs, leadership accountability, cultural change, hiring for fit, technology in HR, employee engagement, culture systems

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Steve Jaffe, author at Jaffe Marketing and Publishing, about the emotional and practical impacts of layoffs. They discuss how to approach layoffs with empathy and the importance of understanding the stages of grief that accompany job loss. Listeners will learn how to support employees during layoffs and how to rebuild their own identities after being laid off. This conversation provides valuable insights for HR professionals and anyone facing job loss. • Understand the emotional stages of grief after a layoff. • Learn how to separate your identity from your job. • Discover the importance of a compassionate layoff process. • Identify resources to support employees during layoffs. • Recognize the long-term impacts of layoffs on mental health. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:41 -- Steve Jaffe's layoff experiences 01:13 -- The emotional impact of layoffs 02:48 -- Stages of grief related to job loss 04:37 -- The human aspect of layoffs 06:05 -- Distinction between layoffs and terminations 07:36 -- Rebuilding identity after a layoff 09:11 -- Gender differences in handling layoffs 10:38 -- Best practices for HR during layoffs 12:12 -- The importance of community support 14:12 -- Resources for those laid off 15:47 -- Financial considerations after a layoff 19:56 -- Final thoughts and advice Guest(s): Steve Jaffe, author at Jaffe Marketing and Publishing. He focuses on the emotional and practical impacts of layoffs and how individuals can rebuild their lives after job loss. Steve has extensive experience navigating multiple layoffs and aims to help others process their experiences more effectively. Keywords: layoffs, emotional impact of layoffs, stages of grief, HR best practices, compassionate layoffs, rebuilding identity, support resources, mental health after layoffs, gender differences in layoffs, community support after job loss

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Kacy Wickenhauser, Chief HR Officer at Wolverine Power Cooperative. They discuss the importance of maintaining a human-centered approach in the workplace, especially in the context of conflict and the rise of AI. Listeners will learn practical strategies for managing workplace conflict, the significance of validating emotions, and how to balance data-driven decision-making with empathy. • Understand the role of inner dialogue in conflict resolution. • Learn techniques for validating employee feelings without agreeing with inaccurate information. • Discover how to approach difficult conversations with empathy and clarity. • Explore the importance of building trust in union environments. Recognize the value of employee engagement data in decision-making. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode and guest. 00:16 -- Kacy's journey in HR and passion for people. 00:57 -- The impact of AI on workplace credibility. 02:14 -- Best practices for double-checking AI information. 03:38 -- The importance of critical thinking in AI use. 05:04 -- Skills for leaders to navigate workplace conflict. 06:53 -- Managing inner chatter before conflict resolution. 07:45 -- The power of acknowledging and validating feelings. 09:26 -- Developing empathy in HR roles. 12:10 -- The importance of not solving others' problems. 15:33 -- Using data to support tough organizational decisions. 20:17 -- Building trust in union environments. 22:03 -- Final advice for HR practitioners. Guest(s): Kacy Wickenhauser, Chief HR Officer at Wolverine Power Cooperative. She leads HR strategy in complex environments, focusing on trust and operational clarity. Kacy has over 20 years of experience in HR and has developed skills in conflict resolution and employee engagement. Keywords: workplace conflict resolution, validating employee feelings, HR strategies, AI in the workplace, trust in unions, employee engagement data, critical thinking skills, managing difficult conversations, HR leadership, human-centered workplace

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Meghan Grace, consultant at the Institute for Generational Research and Education, about the challenges and opportunities of working with multiple generations in the workplace. They discuss how to address common misconceptions about Gen Z and the importance of creating inclusive environments that foster collaboration. Listeners will learn practical strategies to enhance team dynamics and improve communication across age groups. • Understand the root causes of generational misunderstandings in the workplace. • Recognize the importance of listening to younger employees without creating a power dynamic. • Implement informal check-ins to build rapport and trust among team members. • Encourage mentorship and reverse mentorship to facilitate knowledge sharing. • Create a culture that values transparency and accountability in organizational practices. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:59 -- Meghan's background and experience 02:28 -- Common misconceptions about Gen Z 04:44 -- Creating inclusive work environments 06:05 -- Designing for different generational preferences 08:18 -- Key elements for effective communication 10:03 -- Trust and safety in the workplace 12:05 -- Importance of human connection at work 14:00 -- Marketing workplace culture to Gen Z 16:21 -- Listening to employees without bias 17:36 -- Speeding up collaboration in teams 19:56 -- Practical advice for team meetings Guest(s): Meghan Grace is a consultant at the Institute for Generational Research and Education. She specializes in helping leaders understand generational dynamics in the workplace without relying on stereotypes. Meghan has conducted research on Gen Z and their impact on the workforce. Keywords: generational dynamics, workplace collaboration, Gen Z misconceptions, inclusive work environments, mentorship strategies, employee engagement, communication styles, workplace culture, listening skills, team dynamics

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson talks with Christy Engler about the unique HR challenges faced by small businesses and how to address them effectively. Listeners will learn why even small organizations need robust HR practices, the importance of having a solid foundation in HR, and how to foster a positive workplace culture while remaining compliant with laws. By the end of the episode, you will understand actionable steps to enhance your HR strategy and support your organization’s growth. • Small businesses need to prioritize HR even with few employees. • Establishing a strong HR foundation is crucial for success. • Outsourcing payroll and benefits can save time and resources. • Engaging with local communities can enhance recruitment efforts. • Building a network of HR peers provides valuable support. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:33 -- Christy's passion for small business HR 01:48 -- Unique HR challenges in small businesses 02:21 -- Importance of addressing people problems quickly 04:27 -- Common myths about HR in small businesses 05:24 -- The need for HR even in small teams 06:02 -- Foundations for effective HR practices 07:10 -- Changing the narrative around HR policies 09:00 -- Automations for small HR teams 10:57 -- The role of brokers in HR support 12:23 -- Utilizing HR communities for resources 13:24 -- Common mistakes small businesses make 15:16 -- Competing for talent in small businesses 17:08 -- First steps for new HR leaders 19:00 -- Encouragement for HR professionals Guest(s): Christy Engler, Owner of New Day HR. She provides practical HR solutions for small and growing businesses. With over 20 years of experience in small business HR, she focuses on helping organizations protect their people and reduce risk. Keywords: HR practices, small business HR, employee engagement, HR foundations, outsourcing payroll, recruitment strategies, HR community support, small business challenges, compliance in HR, building workplace culture

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson talks with Megan Leasher, founder of Disruptive Journeys, about the challenges of succession planning in organizations. They discuss how to shift the perception of succession planning from a reactive process to a proactive strategy that involves all levels of the organization. Listeners will learn practical steps to identify critical roles, engage employees in the process, and create a culture of shared responsibility for leadership development. Understand the difference between succession planning and replacement planning. Identify critical roles that impact organizational success. Implement a committee approach to succession planning. Normalize conversations about succession planning within teams. Develop a common language to discuss succession planning effectively. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode and guest 00:30 -- Importance of proactive succession planning 01:05 -- Personal story that sparked passion for succession planning 02:25 -- Difference between succession planning and replacement planning 04:03 -- Basketball analogy for succession planning 05:14 -- Limitations of focusing on high-level positions 07:03 -- Identifying critical roles in organizations 08:49 -- Committee approach to succession planning 10:29 -- Peer recognition in succession planning 11:24 -- Overcoming ego and turf wars in leadership 12:43 -- Common language for succession planning discussions 14:02 -- HR's role versus business leaders' responsibilities 15:02 -- Engaging employees in succession planning 16:20 -- Handling employees who are not interested in advancement 18:05 -- Ensuring fairness and equity in succession planning 20:04 -- Final thoughts and actionable question for leaders Guest: Megan Leasher, founder of Disruptive Journeys. She helps organizations strengthen leadership pipelines and develop intentional succession strategies. With extensive experience in leadership development, Megan focuses on creating proactive approaches to succession planning that involve all levels of an organization. Keywords: succession planning, leadership development, employee engagement, critical roles, committee approach, organizational culture, skills development, HR responsibilities, workforce planning, talent management

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Dr. Rosina McAlpine, founder of Win-Win Parenting, about the challenges working parents face and how employers can better support them. The discussion highlights the misconceptions surrounding working parents and caregivers, emphasizing that the issues they encounter are systemic rather than individual. Listeners will learn actionable strategies to create a more supportive workplace environment that reduces burnout and enhances employee well-being. Understand the systemic issues affecting working parents. Recognize the importance of data in addressing employee needs. Implement targeted programs that genuinely support families. Train leaders to foster a family-friendly workplace culture. Create a community for parents to share experiences and solutions. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode00:36 -- Rosina's personal experience as a working parent01:18 -- The realization of the need for support03:23 -- Misconceptions about working parents and caregivers05:02 -- Defining what it means to be parent-friendly07:36 -- Successful programs that prevent burnout11:16 -- The importance of flexibility in support programs12:20 -- Training managers to support employees effectively14:29 -- Creative initiatives organizations can implement16:43 -- The role of leaders in sharing personal stories17:18 -- Engaging C-suite leaders in supporting parents18:27 -- Key takeaway for organizations to support parents Guest: Dr. Rosina McAlpine, founder of Win-Win Parenting. She equips HR and leaders with research-based strategies to support working parents and reduce burnout. Rosina has over a decade of experience in developing programs that address the unique challenges faced by working families. Keywords: working parents support, employer strategies, burnout prevention, family-friendly workplace, employee well-being, leadership training, workplace culture, caregiver challenges, data-driven solutions, community for parents

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Will Ortiz-Febus, HR Healing Advocate at Beyond HR podcast, about the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by HR professionals. They discuss the emotional toll of the HR role, the importance of setting boundaries, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being while supporting others. Listeners will gain insights into recognizing signs of stress in themselves and their teams, as well as actionable steps to foster a healthier workplace environment. Listener Takeaways: • Understand the unique mental health challenges HR professionals face. • Learn how to set effective boundaries in the workplace. • Identify warning signs of disengagement in HR teams. • Discover strategies for fostering emotional intelligence in leadership. • Gain insights on creating a supportive HR community. Timestamps: 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:39 -- The emotional labor of HR work 01:51 -- The loneliness of being an HR professional 03:52 -- Why mental health is a hidden topic in HR 06:14 -- Importance of boundary setting in HR 09:33 -- Educating leaders on supporting HR teams 12:22 -- Unique stressors in manufacturing HR roles 14:01 -- Warning signs of disengagement in HR staff 17:10 -- Prioritization conversations with business leaders 18:34 -- Building community among HR professionals Guest: Will Ortiz-Febus, HR Healing Advocate at Beyond HR podcast. He focuses on the emotional well-being of HR professionals and the challenges they face in their roles. With over 20 years of experience in HR, he advocates for mental health awareness and support within the industry. Keywords: HR mental health, emotional labor in HR, boundary setting, HR community support, disengagement signs, emotional intelligence in leadership, HR stressors, workplace well-being, HR professional challenges, supporting HR teams

In this episode of HR Mixtape, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Steve Goble, Chief People Builder at The Goble Group, about the sensitive topic of employee terminations. They discuss the importance of treating employees with dignity during layoffs and how leaders can approach these difficult conversations. Listeners will gain insights into building empathy, providing support services, and fostering a culture of respect, even in challenging situations. • Understand the emotional impact of being fired and how to process it. • Learn the importance of clear communication during termination conversations. • Discover ways to provide dignity and support to employees being let go. • Recognize the long-term benefits of investing in employee relationships. • Explore how to build career resilience through continuous learning and networking. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:52 -- Steve's moment of reinvention 01:46 -- The impact of being fired 03:10 -- The importance of empathy in HR 04:55 -- Steps to rebuild confidence after termination 06:38 -- How to approach termination conversations 08:44 -- Providing support services for terminated employees 10:02 -- The role of social media in employee experiences 11:13 -- Building career resilience as an individual 13:14 -- Employer responsibilities in employee development 14:36 -- Lessons learned from past experiences 16:04 -- Advice for new leaders on making an impact 17:07 -- The value of curiosity in leadership 18:21 -- Final thoughts on relationships and support Guest: Steve Goble, Chief People Builder at The Goble Group. He helps leaders and teams improve performance through practical people strategies and real-world leadership lessons. Steve's expertise in navigating employee terminations provides valuable insights into fostering a respectful workplace culture. Keywords: employee termination, HR best practices, communication during layoffs, supporting terminated employees

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Claude Silver about the importance of heart-led leadership in creating a psychologically safe workplace. Listeners will learn how to cultivate trust and empathy among team members, leading to improved performance and collaboration. Claude shares practical insights on how to have difficult conversations while maintaining kindness and clarity, ensuring that employees feel valued and understood. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to enhance their leadership approach and foster a more inclusive work environment. Understand the significance of empathetic leadership in business outcomes. Learn how to create psychological safety within teams. Discover effective ways to give and receive feedback. Recognize the importance of transparent communication in leadership. Identify strategies to support both high performers and those needing improvement. 00:00 -- Introduction to heart-led leadership01:26 -- The role of emotional intelligence in leadership03:38 -- Connecting empathy to business outcomes05:42 -- Building trust through vulnerability08:24 -- The impact of communication on team dynamics10:52 -- Addressing performance issues with kindness12:47 -- The importance of regular feedback15:24 -- Managing legal risks while being human17:10 -- Engaging top performers effectively20:49 -- Essential leadership skills for the future Guest: Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX. Claude focuses on fostering human-centered cultures that prioritize emotional intelligence and psychological safety. She has extensive experience in leadership development and is passionate about helping organizations create environments where employees can thrive. Keywords: psychological safety, empathetic leadership, trust in teams, feedback strategies, transparent communication, performance improvement, HR best practices, employee engagement, leadership skills, heart-led action

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson talks with Enrique Rubio about the current state of work and the significant changes driven by technology, particularly AI. They discuss the challenges organizations face in adapting to these changes and the importance of creating human-centered workplaces. Listeners will gain insights into how HR can navigate these transformations and support employees in a rapidly evolving job market. Listener Takeaways • Understand the impact of AI on job security and workforce dynamics. • Learn how organizations can balance technology and human needs. • Discover strategies for HR to support employee transitions in a changing landscape. • Explore the importance of skills-based hiring and career mapping. • Recognize the need for organizations to prioritize employee well-being alongside customer focus. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:41 – Enrique's perspective on the future of work 01:51 – The impact of AI on job loss 03:33 – Shifts in employee treatment post-pandemic 06:04 – The importance of human-centered organizations 08:04 – Skills-based hiring and its relevance 10:33 – HR's role in employee development 19:01 – Key skills HR practitioners should learn Guest(s): Enrique Rubio is the Founder of Hacking HR, bringing a global perspective on HR innovation, technology, and the future of work. He focuses on practical solutions for organizations navigating the complexities of modern employment. Keywords: future of work, HR innovation, AI impact, employee well-being, skills-based hiring, workforce transformation, human-centered organizations, career mapping, job security, organizational change

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, an internal communication strategist at Ready Cultures. They delve into the critical role of internal communication in enhancing employee experience and driving organizational culture. This conversation is timely as companies increasingly recognize the importance of strategic communication in fostering trust, boosting productivity, and facilitating sustainable cultural change. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to bridge the gap between strategy and action through effective internal communication. Discover why understanding your audience is essential for crafting impactful messages. Explore strategies for measuring communication effectiveness, even with limited resources. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your internal communication approach and elevate your HR practices! Guest: Alejandra Ramirez, Internal Communication Strategist, Ready Cultures

In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of employee benefits and how organizations can leverage them to enhance retention and engagement. Jordan Peace, CEO of Fringe, shares insights on the importance of personalizing benefits to meet the diverse needs of employees. Listeners will learn practical strategies for creating a culture that values employee experience and how to effectively communicate the value of benefits to finance teams. Listener Takeaways Understand the shift from traditional benefits to personalized offerings that resonate with employees. Learn how to effectively communicate the value of benefits to finance executives. Discover the importance of sentiment data in assessing employee satisfaction with benefits. Explore quick wins for enhancing employee engagement through innovative perks. Recognize the role of company culture in attracting and retaining top talent. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:40 – Jordan's journey into the benefits space 02:27 – The shift in employee benefits over the years 03:14 – The impact of gig work on employee expectations 05:34 – The importance of understanding employee needs 08:00 – Engaging finance teams in benefits discussions 10:25 – The productivity of happy employees 12:42 – Metrics to assess benefits effectiveness 15:28 – Creating a culture of feedback 17:33 – Tactical quick wins for HR leaders 21:02 – The future of personalized benefits Guest(s): Jordan Peace is the CEO and co-founder of Fringe, where he focuses on enhancing employee experience through innovative benefits and rewards that resonate with individual needs. Keywords: employee benefits, retention strategies, personalized offerings, employee engagement, finance communication, sentiment data, company culture, quick wins, HR tactics, gig economy

In this episode, listeners will learn about the importance of people-first leadership and how it can transform workplace culture. Jeremy York discusses practical strategies for leaders to enhance communication, build trust, and prioritize employee well-being, ultimately leading to improved team performance and reduced turnover. Listener Takeaways Understand the critical role of people-first leadership in retaining talent. Learn how to shift focus from tasks to employee development. Discover practical strategies for fostering open communication and trust. Explore the impact of automation on human interactions in the workplace. Recognize the importance of setting boundaries to promote work-life balance. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to people-first leadership 00:36 – Importance of treating employees as individuals 01:08 – Data supporting people-first leadership 02:42 – Shifting focus from tasks to people 04:45 – Tactical advice for leaders 06:30 – The role of automation in communication 11:01 – Creating a joy-powered workplace 15:06 – Differences in leadership for frontline vs. desk employees 17:24 – Common leadership behaviors that harm culture 20:15 – Setting boundaries for work-life balance 22:06 – Final thoughts on authentic leadership Guest(s): Jeremy York is the lead consultant and president at Invigorate HR, specializing in helping leaders strengthen communication and trust within their teams. He is also a co-author of "Work on Joy." Keywords: people-first leadership, employee retention, communication strategies, trust building, work-life balance, automation in the workplace, joy-powered workplace, leadership behaviors, employee development, organizational culture

In this episode, we explore the exciting yet risky landscape of AI in human resources. Lisa McConnell shares insights on how HR professionals can effectively implement AI tools while maintaining a people-first approach. Listeners will learn about the ethical considerations, the importance of human connection, and practical strategies for leveraging AI to enhance workplace efficiency without compromising employee relationships. Listener Takeaways Understand the balance between AI efficiency and human connection in HR. Identify ethical questions to consider when implementing AI tools. Learn how to define clear goals for AI usage in organizations. Recognize the importance of critical thinking and oversight in AI applications. Explore training and development as a key area for AI implementation. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to AI in HR 00:34 – Exciting aspects of AI for HR 01:15 – Risks of over-reliance on AI 02:16 – AI in employee investigations 04:13 – Building forethought in AI implementation 05:41 – Survey insights on AI concerns 06:50 – Defining ethical approaches to AI 08:00 – Questions to safeguard ethics in AI 09:12 – Importance of understanding AI algorithms 10:36 – Skills needed alongside AI development 17:16 – Best areas for AI use in HR 19:19 – Risks and opportunities of AI in HR Guest(s): Lisa McConnell is the founder of Steeped Leadership, specializing in helping leaders navigate AI and modern leadership decisions with an ethics-first, people-first approach. Keywords: AI in HR, ethical AI, human connection, employee investigations, critical thinking, AI implementation, training and development, AI risks, HR technology, workforce trends

In this episode, we explore the critical role of HR operations in driving organizational success beyond mere compliance and administrative tasks. La Tonya Roberts shares insights on how HR can evolve from a reactive function to a strategic partner, emphasizing the importance of data, process maturity, and proactive engagement with leadership. Listeners will learn actionable steps to enhance their HR operations and demonstrate their value to the organization. Listener Takeaways Understand the four levels of HR operational maturity and how to progress through them. Learn how to leverage employee engagement data to drive business decisions. Discover strategies to change the perception of HR from a reactive to a proactive function. Explore the importance of compliance being embedded in organizational culture. Gain insights on how to effectively use automation and AI in HR processes. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to HR operations 00:36 – The impact of HR operations on organizations 01:32 – Signs of HR stuck in reactive mode 02:40 – Changing misconceptions about HR's role 03:40 – Importance of employee engagement data 06:32 – The HR maturity model explained 10:11 – The role of technology in HR operations 12:22 – Compliance and its cultural implications 15:05 – The importance of training for managers 18:52 – Automation in onboarding processes 19:26 – Final thoughts on becoming a strategic partner Guest(s): La Tonya Roberts is a Fractional COO and Human Capital Strategist at Harmony Consulting Group, specializing in building scalable operations and people systems that drive clarity and growth within organizations. HR operations, employee engagement, HR maturity model, compliance, automation, strategic partner, data-driven HR, organizational culture, AI in HR, onboarding processes

In this episode, Alfredo Borodowski discusses the critical mistakes leaders make when attempting to future-proof their workforce, particularly the risk of employee burnout. He emphasizes the importance of understanding character strengths and fostering resilience within teams. Listeners will learn practical strategies to create a culture of nourishment rather than fixing, ultimately enhancing employee engagement and performance. Listener Takeaways Leaders should focus on providing orientation rather than trying to predict change. Understanding character strengths is essential for minimizing disorientation in teams. Resilience is about learning from setbacks and coming back stronger, not just returning to the previous state. Companies should shift from a culture of fixing to one of nourishing employee potential. Psychological capital, including self-confidence, hope, optimism, and resilience, is crucial for future success. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:43 – Common mistakes in future-proofing workforces 01:50 – The shift from predicting to providing orientation 02:56 – Importance of character strengths in the workplace 04:51 – Case study on honesty in team dynamics 07:13 – The relationship between strengths and resilience 09:08 – Understanding resilience beyond just recovery 10:31 – The emotional work involved in change 11:18 – The value of humanity in a tech-driven world 15:32 – Practical advice for integrating AI without losing humanity 17:45 – Key components of psychological capital 18:19 – Moving from fixing to nourishing cultures Guest(s): Alfredo Borodowski is a Purpose Factor Facilitator at The Purpose Company, where he helps leaders connect purpose to performance by building cultures rooted in meaning, resilience, and engagement. future-proofing, employee burnout, character strengths, resilience, workplace culture, psychological capital, leadership strategies, employee engagement, change management, positive psychology

In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson speaks with Laura Varn about the unique challenges and opportunities of building HR from the ground up in the manufacturing sector. Listeners will learn about the importance of establishing a strong culture, the role of HR in startups, and practical strategies for engaging hourly workers. Laura shares insights on how to create a people-first environment that fosters growth and compliance while addressing the specific needs of the manufacturing workforce.   Listener Takeaways Understand the critical role of HR in shaping company culture from the start. Learn how to effectively engage hourly workers in a manufacturing setting. Discover practical strategies for implementing benefits that resonate with employees. Explore the importance of leadership visibility and communication in HR initiatives. Gain insights into the value of stay interviews and pulse surveys for employee feedback. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:34 – The excitement of building HR from scratch 02:26 – Where to start when building HR 03:58 – The importance of HR in startups 04:58 – HR's role in manufacturing environments 06:06 – Culture as a strategic lever 07:04 – Leadership's role in shaping culture 09:15 – Creative benefits in manufacturing 10:54 – Approaching skills development in manufacturing 12:57 – Learning from past HR challenges 15:16 – The importance of marketing in HR 16:27 – Building cohesive teams across departments 18:01 – Creating a culture of feedback 20:33 – Implementing stay interviews for engagement Guest(s): Laura Varn is the founder of Laura Varn and Associates, specializing in helping organizations build practical HR foundations that support growth, compliance, and a healthier culture. HR in manufacturing, building HR, company culture, employee engagement, manufacturing workforce, benefits strategies, leadership in HR, skills development, feedback culture, HR startups

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Dr. Shari Simpson welcomes Tracy Austin, Chief Talent Officer at Elevated Talent Consulting. They dive into the often-overlooked world of skilled trades, discussing the misconceptions surrounding these roles and the importance of effective leadership in these environments. This conversation is timely as organizations face challenges in attracting and retaining talent in the trades, especially amidst the rise of AI and changing workforce dynamics. Tracy offers unique insights into how to foster a positive employee experience and build a culture of psychological safety. Learn how to shift perceptions about trade roles and their earning potential. Discover strategies for developing leadership skills tailored to frontline workers. Explore ways to create engaging, hands-on experiences for young talent in the trades. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR in the skilled trades! Guest(s): Tracy Austin, Chief Talent Officer, Elevated Talent Consulting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Lily Zheng, a FAIR strategist and consultant at Zheng Consulting. They delve into the pressing topic of fairness in the workplace, emphasizing the need for measurable DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) practices that drive real outcomes. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments that enhance employee experience and foster psychological safety. Lily's insights challenge traditional approaches, urging HR leaders to focus on problem-solving and collective decision-making to address systemic issues. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and measure the right metrics that truly reflect employee experiences. Discover why psychological safety is essential for fostering good conflict and open communication. Explore strategies for reframing DEI initiatives as critical business investments rather than mere compliance efforts. Hit “Play” to gain actionable insights that can transform your workplace culture! Guest(s): Lily Zheng, FAIR Strategist and Consultant, Zheng Consulting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Loretta Stagnitto, President and Executive Leadership Coach at Loretta Stagnito Leadership Associates. They delve into the evolving landscape of leadership development, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership and emotional intelligence in today’s workplace. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership amidst the rapid changes brought on by technology and AI. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to define authentic leadership through self-awareness and empathy. Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership and team dynamics. Explore strategies for leveraging feedback to enhance leadership effectiveness and foster a culture of growth. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership! Guest(s): Loretta Stagnitto, President and Executive Leadership Coach, Loretta Stagnito Leadership Associates

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Marty Dubin, a clinical psychologist and author of "Blindspotting." They delve into the concept of cognitive blind spots in leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in enhancing employee experience and fostering inclusive leadership. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of remote work and the need for emotional intelligence in decision-making. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your strengths and recognize when they become blind spots. Discover why vulnerability in leadership can enhance team dynamics and psychological safety. Explore strategies for effective meta-communication to improve workplace interactions. Hit “Play” to uncover how small behavioral tweaks can lead to significant leadership improvements! Guest(s): Dr. Marty Dubin, Clinical Psychologist and Author, Blindspotting.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Alex Seiler, founder and chief people officer of Alex Seiler LLC. They delve into the complexities of employee experience and inclusive leadership, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and adaptability in today’s evolving workplace. Alex shares insights on how organizations can foster a culture that embraces change while honoring what employees may be losing, making this conversation particularly timely as companies navigate transformations in the age of AI and shifting workforce dynamics. Learn how to cultivate curiosity within your organization to enhance employee engagement. Discover why understanding loss is crucial for effective change management. Explore strategies for redefining talent development beyond traditional career paths. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR practices! Guest(s): Alex Seiler, Chief People Officer, Alex Seiler LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Jennifer Dall, a grief-informed neurodivergent specialist and founder of ADHD Holistically. They delve into the complexities of ADHD in adults, particularly in the workplace, highlighting the importance of understanding neurodiversity for inclusive leadership and employee experience. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the need for neuro-inclusive environments to support diverse talent and enhance overall productivity. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and debunk common myths about ADHD in adults. Discover why emotional regulation and executive function challenges significantly impact workplace performance. Explore strategies for creating supportive policies that foster neurodiversity in your organization. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and employee support! Guest(s): Dr. Jennifer Dall, Grief-Informed Neurodivergent Specialist, ADHD Holistically

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Laura Maffucci, Head of HR at G-P. They delve into the transformative role of AI in HR, discussing how organizations can leverage technology to enhance employee experience and adapt to a rapidly changing labor market. This conversation is particularly timely as HR leaders face the challenge of integrating AI while maintaining critical thinking and human connection in their processes. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and nurture AI champions within your organization to drive innovation. Discover why curiosity and learning agility are essential skills for HR professionals in today's tech-driven landscape. Explore strategies for implementing effective talent assessment programs that prioritize skills over traditional job descriptions. Hit “Play” to gain insights on navigating the future of HR with AI! Guest(s): Laura Maffucci, Head of HR, G-P

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Ron Monteiro, CPA and CMA, former finance leader at YaYa Foods Corp, and author of "Love Mondays." They delve into the importance of employee experience and how to cultivate joy in the workplace, especially in a post-COVID world where many struggle with work-life balance. Ron shares his journey from corporate burnout to finding purpose and joy in his work, offering practical, measurable steps to help others do the same. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee engagement and well-being amidst evolving workplace dynamics. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to set effective boundaries to reclaim your time and energy. Discover why accountability partners can enhance your journey toward workplace joy. Explore strategies for creating a culture where every day feels fulfilling, not just Fridays. Hit “Play” to uncover how you can start loving Mondays again! Guest(s): Ron Monteiro, Author, Love Mondays

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Celeste Warren, Vice President of the Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence at Merck. They delve into the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, emphasizing that inclusion is a shared responsibility across all levels of an organization. This conversation is particularly timely as companies navigate the complexities of employee experience and strive for inclusive leadership in a rapidly changing environment. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to foster a culture of inclusion by engaging all employees in DEI initiatives. Discover why aligning employee resource groups with business goals can drive organizational change. Explore strategies for measuring the impact of DEI efforts beyond traditional metrics. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on integrating DEI into your organization’s fabric! Guest(s): Celeste Warren, Vice President, Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, Merck

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Justin Clifford, CEO of Bereave, to discuss the critical yet often overlooked topic of supporting employees through grief and loss. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and holistic wellbeing, especially in light of recent events that have highlighted the need for compassionate workplace policies. Justin shares insights on bridging the gap between personal loss and workplace support, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and empathetic leadership. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to create a comprehensive plan for supporting employees during times of grief. Discover why traditional bereavement policies often fall short and how to improve them. Explore strategies for training managers in empathy and effective communication during difficult times. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on enhancing your organization’s approach to grief support! Guest(s): Justin Clifford, CEO, Bereave

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Rachel Shaw, President and Principal Consultant of Shaw HR Consulting, to discuss the evolving landscape of reasonable accommodations under the ADA. This conversation is particularly timely as it reflects the significant shifts in workplace dynamics since the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of inclusive leadership and creative problem-solving in HR practices. Rachel shares insights on fostering a culture that values employee experience and the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing HR processes. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to approach ADA accommodations with a mindset focused on finding solutions. Discover why the interactive process is essential for effective communication and employee support. Explore strategies for leveraging technology to streamline accommodation requests and improve efficiency. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR! Guest(s): Rachel Shaw, President and Principal Consultant, Shaw HR Consulting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Kevin Wright, a Senior Racial Equity Facilitator and Consultant at the Center for Equity and Inclusion. They dive into the critical topic of financial literacy in the workplace, discussing the significant gaps in access to financial education and the role employers can play in bridging these gaps. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and well-being, especially in light of evolving financial systems and the need for inclusive leadership. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to assess your organization's current financial literacy offerings and identify gaps. Discover why expanding financial education resources can enhance employee retention and productivity. Explore strategies for leveraging existing partnerships to provide valuable financial literacy training. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your workplace culture and empower your employees! Guest(s): Dr. Kevin Wright, Senior Racial Equity Facilitator and Consultant, Center for Equity and Inclusion

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Leah Marone, a psychotherapist and corporate mental wellness consultant, to discuss the critical issue of burnout in HR professionals. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and mental wellness, especially in high-stress environments. Leah shares insights from her new book, "Serial Fixer," emphasizing the need for HR professionals to break free from the habit of solving others' problems and to establish healthier boundaries. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your role in conversations and avoid the urge to fix others' problems. Discover why setting boundaries is essential for maintaining mental wellness in HR. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of self-awareness and resilience within your team. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR and enhance your well-being! Guest(s): Leah Marone, Psychotherapist and Corporate Mental Wellness Consultant Order Leah's book here: Serial Fixer: Break Free from the Habit of Solving Other People's Problems

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Anita Roach, founder of the Safe and Sound Workplace Alliance, to discuss the critical concept of trauma-informed workplaces. This timely conversation delves into how organizations can foster psychologically safe and equitable cultures, especially in light of increasing employee trauma due to societal pressures and crises. Anita shares unique insights on trauma awareness, the impact of workplace dynamics on employee experience, and the importance of inclusive leadership in mitigating trauma responses. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and address trauma weaponizing in the workplace. Discover why fostering a trauma-informed culture can enhance employee retention and productivity. Explore strategies for implementing clear behavioral guidelines to create a safe work environment. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your organization’s approach to employee well-being! Guest(s): Anita Roach, Founder, Safe and Sound Workplace Alliance

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn's first Chief HR Officer and founder of Cadigan Talent Ventures. They delve into the evolving landscape of the modern workforce, focusing on the shift from traditional job security to career security. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations face rapid changes driven by digital transformation and the need for agile talent strategies. Steve emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, making this episode a must-listen for HR professionals navigating today's challenges. Learn how to shift your focus from employee retention to career development. Discover why fostering a culture of learning can enhance employee loyalty. Explore strategies for building partnerships with educational institutions to future-proof your talent pipeline. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your HR approach! Guest(s): Steve Cadigan, Author, Future of Work expert, LinkedIn’s first CHRO, Cadigan Talent Ventures

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Margaret Andrews, author of Manage Yourself to Lead Others and a leadership educator at Harvard University. They delve into the critical role of self-awareness in effective leadership, especially in today's fast-paced, hybrid work environments. This conversation is timely as organizations navigate complexities like AI integration and the evolving employee experience, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership and personal growth. Listener Takeaways: Learn how understanding your values can guide decision-making under pressure. Discover why self-awareness is essential for fostering strong interpersonal skills in leadership. Explore strategies for creating a culture of open communication and feedback within teams. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your leadership approach! Guest(s): Margaret Andrews, Author, MyLo Center

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dave Garrison, co-founder of Garrison Growth, to discuss the critical role of leadership in fostering a culturally intelligent and collaborative workplace. With a wealth of experience as a CEO and board member, Dave shares insights on how leaders can inspire their teams to engage fully and create an environment of psychological safety. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the evolving employee experience landscape, emphasizing the importance of purpose-driven leadership and inclusive practices. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to cultivate psychological safety by prioritizing human connection over tasks. Discover why aligning on a compelling purpose can enhance employee engagement and retention. Explore strategies for effective feedback that reinforces trust and encourages open dialogue. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your leadership approach and improve team dynamics! Guest(s): Dave Garrison, Co-founder, Garrison Growth

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Collin Williams, founder and chairman of New Era ADR, to explore the critical role of transparency in conflict resolution within organizations. This conversation is timely as many companies grapple with fostering a positive employee experience while managing risks associated with traditional HR practices. Collin emphasizes that viewing conflict as navigable rather than fearsome can transform workplace culture, making this discussion both unique and insightful for HR leaders. Listener Takeaways: Learn how transparency can significantly reduce workplace conflict and build trust. Discover why rigid rules can stifle creativity and how flexible policies can enhance employee engagement. Explore strategies for implementing effective mediation and arbitration processes to resolve disputes amicably. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can reshape your approach to HR! Guest(s): Collin Williams, Founder and Chairman, New Era ADR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Scott Tillema, corporate trainer, retired SWAT hostage negotiator, and co-founder of the Negotiations Collective. Scott draws from his experience as an FBI-trained negotiator to share how HR professionals can use proven negotiation and communication techniques to manage high-stakes conversations with confidence. Listener Takeaways: Why listening is your most powerful negotiation tool as an HR leader. How to use emotional intelligence to build trust, even in tough conversations. Strategies for staying grounded when negotiations get emotional. Why silence can be one of the most effective tools in HR conversations. Guest(s): Scott Tillema, Keynote Speaker | Corporate trainer | Retired SWAT Hostage Negotiator | Founder, Negotiations Collective

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kelly Bunting, a labor and employment attorney at Greenberg Traurig LLP. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of employment law, particularly focusing on compliance issues surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, hybrid work dynamics, and the implications of recent legal changes. This discussion is timely as organizations navigate the complexities of creating an inclusive workplace while adhering to new regulations. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively adapt DEI policies to foster a genuine workplace culture. Discover why documentation is crucial for HR compliance and risk management. Explore strategies for managing employee requests for remote work under the ADA. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you stay ahead in the ever-changing HR landscape! Guest(s): Kelly Bunting, Labor and Employment Attorney, Greenberg Traurig LLP

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Danielle Dinkelman, co-founder and CEO of Advanced Corporate Wellness. They delve into the critical role of wellness coaching in enhancing employee experience and combating burnout, a timely topic as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Danielle shares her personal journey into wellness coaching and highlights how companies can invest in their employees' health to improve retention and productivity. Learn how wellness coaching can bridge the gap between information and application for employees. Discover why investing in employee well-being is not just altruistic but a smart business strategy. Explore strategies for creating a psychologically safe environment that fosters open communication and stress management. Hit “Play” to gain insights that could transform your organization’s approach to employee wellness! Guest(s): Danielle Dinkelman, Co-founder and CEO, Advanced Corporate Wellness

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership for the Society of Human Resource Management. They delve into the pressing issue of working caregivers, a topic that has gained urgency as over 50 million individuals balance professional responsibilities with caregiving for children, adults with chronic conditions, and the elderly. This conversation is particularly insightful as it highlights the evolving landscape of employee experience and the need for inclusive leadership in supporting caregivers, especially in light of the ongoing shifts in workforce demographics. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify the unique needs of caregivers within your organization. Discover why flexibility in workplace policies can enhance productivity and retention. Explore strategies for embedding a culture of support that benefits all employees. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on how to better support working caregivers in your organization! Guest(s): James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership, Society of Human Resource Management

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist at AIHR. They delve into the integration of AI in HR practices, emphasizing the importance of managing the narrative around AI to alleviate fears and enhance employee experience. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of AI adoption while striving for inclusive leadership and data-driven decision-making. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively introduce AI into your talent strategies without overwhelming your team. Discover why understanding the ethical implications of AI is crucial for fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Explore strategies for enhancing data literacy within HR to leverage analytics for better decision-making. Hit “Play” to gain insights on transforming HR practices with AI! Guest(s): Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist, AIHR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. David Cohen, founder and senior consultant of DS Cohen and Associates. They dive into the concept of agile leadership and its relevance in today’s evolving workplace, particularly in light of shifting employee expectations post-pandemic. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee experience and foster inclusive leadership while navigating the complexities of AI in HR. Listener Takeaways: Learn how aligning organizational values with hiring practices can boost employee retention and engagement. Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for modern leaders to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of learning from failure to drive innovation and growth. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and HR practices! Guest(s): Dr. David Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen and Associates

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Steve Yacovelli, owner and principal of Top Dog Learning Group, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of authentic allyship in the workplace, contrasting it with performative gestures often seen in organizations. This conversation is particularly timely as companies face increasing pressure to foster inclusive leadership and diverse cultures, especially with the rise of Gen Z in the workforce. Dr. Yacovelli shares insights on how organizations can genuinely support LGBTQ+ employees and the importance of aligning corporate values with actions. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and combat performative allyship in your organization. Discover why inclusive leadership is essential for employee experience and retention. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of accountability and respect in the workplace. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on creating a truly inclusive environment! Guest(s): Dr. Steve Yacovelli, Owner and Principal, Top Dog Learning Group, LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Louis Lessig, a Labor and Employment Litigator at Brown and Connery, LLP. They delve into the pressing legal risks that HR professionals often underestimate, including retaliation, intermittent leave, and the critical need for effective management training. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the evolving landscape of remote work policies, especially in light of AI's growing influence in HR. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to proactively address retaliation and its impact on organizational risk. Discover why effective management training is essential for mitigating legal issues. Explore strategies for developing comprehensive social media and remote work policies. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you enhance your HR practices and protect your organization! Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Labor and Employment Litigator, Brown and Connery, LLP

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer for the Society for Human Resource Management. They delve into the evolving landscape of HR competencies and the critical role of data analytics in shaping employee experience and inclusive leadership. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly leverage AI in HR to drive strategic transformation and enhance workforce readiness. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify competencies that are becoming obsolete and those that are essential for future HR success. Discover why integrating AI into HR practices can revolutionize talent management and employee engagement. Explore strategies for utilizing data analytics to inform decision-making and drive organizational change. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can elevate your HR practice! Guest(s): Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Society for Human Resource Management

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Nahed Khairallah, a global HR strategist and founder of Organized Chaos. They delve into the complexities of building effective HR departments in fast-growing startups, emphasizing the importance of a proactive, people-first approach. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the need for inclusive leadership and strategic HR practices to enhance employee experience and drive business success. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to balance structure and flexibility in HR to support rapid growth. Discover why psychological safety is crucial in fast-paced environments. Explore strategies for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the core of your organization from day one. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach and empower your organization! Guest(s): Nahed Khairallah, Global HR Strategist, Organized Chaos

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Leslie Vickrey, CEO of ClearEdge, to discuss the myths surrounding women's advancement in leadership. This timely conversation sheds light on the outdated beliefs that hinder women's progress in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of visibility, networking, and redefining success on their own terms. Leslie's insights into inclusive leadership and the need for strategic sponsorship make this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in enhancing the employee experience and fostering a diverse workplace. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to challenge the myth that women don't want top jobs due to family responsibilities. Discover why hard work alone isn't enough for career advancement and the importance of self-advocacy. Explore strategies for building a supportive network that empowers women in leadership roles. Hit "Play" to gain valuable insights and empower your journey in leadership! Guest(s): Leslie Vickrey, CEO, ClearEdge

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations at Paylocity. They dive into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a significant piece of legislation that impacts payroll, tax deductions, and employee benefits. This conversation is timely as employers navigate the complexities of compliance with new regulations, especially regarding paid family leave and tax deductions for overtime and tips. Kurt's insights provide clarity on how these changes will affect employee experience and organizational practices. Learn how the OBBBA affects tax deductions for overtime and tips. Discover why employers need to stay informed about compliance changes. Explore strategies for leveraging new benefits to enhance employee engagement. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that will help you adapt to the evolving HR landscape! Guest: Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations, Paylocity

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Michelle Sims, CEO of Yupro Placement, to explore the transformative power of skills-based hiring. As organizations increasingly prioritize inclusive leadership and equitable hiring practices, this conversation sheds light on the urgent need to move beyond traditional degree requirements. Michelle shares her journey and insights on how skills-first approaches can enhance employee experience and drive economic mobility for overlooked talent. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify the top skills needed for success in various roles. Discover why reframing interview questions can reduce bias and improve candidate assessment. Explore strategies for building partnerships with workforce development organizations to tap into nontraditional talent pools. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on redefining hiring practices for a more inclusive future! Guest(s): Michelle Sims, CEO, Yupro Placement

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Tiffany Castagno, CEO and founder of CEPHR LLC, to discuss the importance of shaping a personal leadership brand in HR. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership. Tiffany emphasizes the need for authenticity, vulnerability, and curiosity in leadership, offering insights on how HR professionals can navigate their unique styles while fostering strong, inclusive teams. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your core values and align them with your leadership brand. Discover why vulnerability and curiosity are essential for building trust within teams. Explore strategies for effectively sharing your leadership journey on platforms like LinkedIn. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on enhancing your leadership presence in today’s evolving workplace! Guest(s): Tiffany Castagno, CEO and Founder, CEPHR LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Meg Crosby, co-founder of PeopleCap Advisors and operating partner at SSM Partners. They delve into the critical first 90 days for new leaders, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding organizational culture during leadership transitions. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the integration of AI in HR, highlighting the need for inclusive leadership strategies. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively support new leaders by prioritizing listening and relationship-building. Discover why understanding generational dynamics can enhance team cohesion and performance. Explore strategies for leveraging AI to shift focus from functional expertise to essential people management skills. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on leadership development and the evolving role of HR! Guest(s): Meg Crosby, Co-founder, PeopleCap Advisors

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson takes you behind the scenes of SHRM25—the world’s largest HR conference—happening June 29 to July 2 in San Diego. Drawing from over 20 years in the HR profession and countless conferences, Shari delivers a real-talk survival guide for navigating SHRM25 like a pro. From how to prep for President Biden’s keynote to what to pack (and what to leave behind), Shari shares practical advice, first-timer strategies, and unexpected tips that will help you get the most out of your time in San Diego. Whether you’re attending for the first time or the tenth, this episode will help you show up prepared, confident, and ready to make the most of every minute. Plus, learn how you can participate in Paylocity’s GIVES event to help pack 10,000 sensory break kits for United Way San Diego and eight local YMCA locations. Listener Takeaways:  • Discover what to pack, what to wear, and how to avoid rookie mistakes at SHRM25  • Learn how to build a smart, flexible daily schedule with room for recharge  • Get security tips for attending President Joe Biden’s keynote session  • Hear Shari’s favorite networking hacks and hidden session gems   Hit “Play” and take 20 minutes to feel fully prepared for SHRM25—because showing up ready is the first step to making it unforgettable. Guest(s): Solo episode featuring Shari Simpson, Host of HR Mixtape

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Tracy Sponenberg, founder and chief people officer at Tracy Sponenberg LLC. They dive into the often-overlooked topic of deskless or frontline workers, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities in enhancing employee experience for this critical group. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of inclusive leadership and effective communication strategies, especially in a post-pandemic world where employee engagement is paramount. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to implement a listening tour to build trust with frontline employees. Discover why flexibility in roles and schedules is essential for enhancing employee experience. Explore strategies for leveraging technology, like AI and mobile solutions, to support deskless workers. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on transforming your HR approach for frontline teams! Guest(s): Tracy Sponenberg, Chief People Officer, Tracy Sponenberg LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR at TrustRadius. They delve into the evolving role of HR professionals, focusing on the critical transition from tactical support to strategic partnership in the workplace. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the integration of AI in HR practices. Jamy shares her unique insights on fostering a culture of belonging and leveraging soft skills as power skills to drive business outcomes. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to balance employee advocacy with organizational goals for mutual benefit. Discover why developing an HR mission and values statement is essential for internal branding. Explore strategies for embracing AI as a tool to enhance HR efficiency and effectiveness. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach! Guest(s): Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR, TrustRadius

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Sabina Nawaz, an elite executive coach at Nawaz Consulting, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of effective management, particularly for high-performing leaders who often overlook the importance of feedback and psychological safety within their teams. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership in today's dynamic work environment. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to cultivate a culture of feedback that empowers team members to share their insights openly. Discover why speaking less can enhance your leadership effectiveness and foster better communication. Explore strategies for creating psychological safety, enabling your team to engage in tough conversations without fear. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your management approach! Guest(s): Sabina Nawaz, Executive Coach, Nawaz Consulting, LLC

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Joey Faucette, an executive coach and culture architect at Work Positive. They dive into the concept of "dream teams" in today's hybrid work environment, emphasizing the importance of positivity and active listening in fostering a successful workplace culture. Dr. Faucette shares practical strategies for leaders to cultivate a strengths-based approach, highlighting the significance of gratitude and collaboration. Key Takeaways: Active Listening: Learn how to enhance team dynamics by truly listening to your colleagues, especially in a hybrid setting. Positivity vs. Toxic Positivity: Understand the difference and how to maintain a realistic yet optimistic workplace culture. Empowering Teams: Discover how to shift from providing answers to asking powerful questions that encourage team collaboration and innovation. Tune in for insights that can transform your leadership style and workplace culture! Guest(s): Dr. Joey Faucette, Founder & President, Work Positive

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dan Berger, founder and CEO of Assemble Hospitality Group, to discuss the critical concept of workplace belonging. Dan shares his personal journey of adoption and the impact of belonging traumas on his life, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual experiences in the workplace. He introduces the idea of belonging archetypes and outlines six paths to foster belonging both personally and professionally. Key Takeaways: Understanding your belonging archetype can help you navigate relationships and foster a sense of belonging in the workplace. Employers should create spaces for employees to build connections outside of work to enhance workplace culture. Measuring belonging goes beyond traditional metrics; focusing on feelings of acceptance and value is essential for a thriving workplace. Tune in to explore how to cultivate a culture of belonging in your organization! Guest(s): Dan Berger, Founder and CEO, Assemble Hospitality Group

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Leah Stiegler, a principal employment attorney at Woods Rogers. Leah shares her expertise on navigating toxic workplaces, discussing the legal implications of a toxic work environment and how HR professionals can identify early warning signs. She emphasizes the importance of transparency in termination discussions and the need for consistent documentation to protect organizations from potential lawsuits. Key Takeaways: Understand the legal definition of a toxic workplace and the signs of a potentially actionable environment. Learn best practices for handling terminations, including the importance of clear communication and documentation. Discover strategies for managing "brilliant jerks" in the workplace while maintaining a positive company culture. Tune in for practical advice and insights that can help transform your workplace dynamics! Guest(s): Leah Stiegler, Principal Employment Attorney at Woods Rogers

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Caroline Brookfield, a veterinarian, researcher, and keynote speaker specializing in creative leadership and embracing ambiguity. With over 25 years of experience, Caroline shares insights on how leaders can foster creativity within their teams, emphasizing the importance of psychological safety and the need to redefine creativity beyond traditional artistic boundaries. Key Takeaways: Understanding Creativity: Creativity isn't just about art; it encompasses problem-solving and innovative thinking in everyday tasks. Embracing Ambiguity: Leaders must cultivate an environment where team members can sit with uncertainty, which can lead to greater creativity and resilience. Practical Strategies: Caroline introduces the "DANCE" model, highlighting habits like daydreaming and curiosity that can enhance creative thinking in the workplace. Tune in to discover how to inspire innovation and navigate change effectively! Guest(s): Dr. Carolline Brookfield, Author, Keynote Speaker https://carolinebrookfield.com/

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Andy Garrett, a strategic growth consultant and clinical psychologist at AG Thrive. They delve into the concept of authentic identity and its crucial role in personal and professional growth. Dr. Garrett emphasizes the importance of aligning individual values with organizational goals to foster a thriving workplace culture. Key Takeaways: Authenticity as Leadership: Discover why authenticity is the ultimate leadership skill and how it enhances team dynamics. True North Blueprint: Learn about the True North Blueprint and how defining personal and organizational values can reduce burnout and increase engagement. Courageous Conversations: Gain insights on how to address inauthenticity in leadership through compassionate and constructive dialogue. Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking insights that can transform your approach to HR and leadership development! Guest(s): Dr. Andy Garrett, Psy D., Strategic Growth Consultant, Coach and Clinical Psychologist, AG Thrive Psychological Consultation, Inc.

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Jared Rosenthal, founder and CEO of Health Street. Jared shares his unconventional journey from healthcare CEO to entrepreneur, highlighting his innovative approach to mobile DNA testing and the evolution of his tech platform. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing technology, fostering a culture of innovation, and navigating challenges during uncertain times like COVID-19. Key Takeaways: Embrace Technology: Small businesses can significantly improve efficiency by adopting scalable tech solutions rather than relying on outdated systems. Foster Innovation: Encouraging a culture where employees feel empowered to take risks and innovate can lead to substantial growth and adaptability. Transparent Leadership: Open communication during crises builds trust and helps employees understand the company's direction and their role in it. Tune in for valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of small businesses! Guest(s): Jared Rosenthal, Founder & CEO, Health Street

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Luis Garcia, president and co-founder of PETE, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on workforce training and learning development. With over 25 years of experience in digital education and ed tech, Luis shares his journey and insights into how AI can enhance personalized learning experiences and improve evaluation methods in the workplace. Key Takeaways: AI in Learning: Discover how AI can create adaptive learning models that personalize training experiences and evaluate learning outcomes effectively. Challenges in Hiring: Understand the complexities of modern hiring processes and how AI can complicate rather than simplify recruitment. Getting Started with AI: Learn practical tools and strategies for individuals and businesses to embrace AI technology in their professional lives. Tune in to explore how AI is reshaping the future of work and education! Guest(s): Luis Garcia, President and CoFounder, PETE

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Paul Butler, Client Partner at Newleaf Training and Development. They delve into the critical importance of financial acumen for HR professionals, emphasizing how understanding financial metrics can enhance decision-making and drive business success. Paul shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the need for HR to partner with finance to maximize organizational performance. Key Takeaways: Financial literacy is essential for HR professionals to align human resources with business results. Building relationships with finance colleagues can create a safe space for HR to ask questions and improve their financial understanding. Implementing zero-based budgeting encourages a more strategic approach to financial planning and resource allocation. Tune in to learn how HR can leverage financial insights to foster a more effective workplace! Guest(s): Paul Butler, Client Partner, Newleaf Training and Development Book: Business Financial Intelligence: A mindset and skillset few people have and all organizations need.

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Siri Chilazi, a senior researcher at the Women in Public Policy program at Harvard Kennedy School. They discuss the importance of data-driven approaches to advancing gender equality in the workplace and explore practical strategies for creating fairer work environments. Siri shares insights from her book, "Make Work Fair," emphasizing how organizational design can influence equity and inclusion. Key Takeaways: Data-Driven Design: Learn how small changes in workplace design, like table shapes and resume formats, can significantly impact fairness and inclusivity. Flexibility in Work: Discover the benefits of hybrid work models and how they can enhance job satisfaction, especially for caregivers. Building Fairness: Understand that fairness should be integrated into everyday practices rather than treated as a one-off program. Tune in for actionable insights that can transform your HR practices! Guest(s): Siri Chilazi, Senior Researcher at the Women in Public Policy program, Harvard Kennedy School Book: Make Work Fair: Data-Driven Design for Real Results

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes David Dilger, director and co-founder of Edge Legal, to discuss the critical topic of psychological safety in the workplace. David shares his extensive experience in employment law and HR, emphasizing the legal risks associated with employees feeling unsafe to speak up. Listeners will learn about the importance of fostering a people-first approach in management, the biological factors influencing managers' fear of confrontation, and effective strategies for addressing performance issues while maintaining trust. Key Takeaways: Understanding the legal risks of psychological safety, including workers' compensation and anti-discrimination claims. Practical strategies for managers to balance empathy and accountability in performance conversations. The significance of building trust within teams to enhance communication and overall workplace culture. Tune in for valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR and management! Guest(s): David Dilger, Director and Co-Founder, Edge Legal Email: ddilger@edgelegal.com.au

In this episode of "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Heather Hansen, CEO of Advocate to Win, keynote speaker, and former trial attorney. Heather shares her journey from medical malpractice defense to empowering leaders with advocacy skills. She emphasizes the importance of using psychology and conflict resolution techniques in high-stakes corporate environments. Key Takeaways: Advocacy Skills: Learn how to effectively ask for what you want in your career and for your team, using the energy of delight. The Three C's: Discover the significance of compassion, curiosity, and credibility in conflict resolution and leadership. Reframing Failure: Understand how to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth, enhancing your resilience and decision-making. Guest(s): Heather Hansen, CEO, Advocate to Win Books: The Elegant Warrior: How To Win Life's Trials Without Losing Yourself Advocate to Win: 10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Becca Short, the leader of people strategy at 88 Acres. They dive into the critical topic of supporting deskless workers and ensuring they remain connected and engaged in the workplace. Becca shares innovative strategies for introducing flexibility in roles that require physical presence, emphasizing the importance of communication, employee experience, and career development for frontline employees. Key Takeaways: Flexibility for deskless workers can include job rotation and shift swapping to accommodate personal needs. Effective communication with frontline employees requires face-to-face interactions and the use of technology that mimics social media. Employee engagement can be enhanced by actively seeking feedback and implementing changes based on their input. Tune in to discover how to create a more inclusive and engaged workforce! Guest(s): Becca Short, Director of People and Culture, 88 Acres Foods Inc.

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Sarah Katherine Schmidt, VP of Customer Experience at PeopleLogic, to discuss the transformative approach of agile performance management. With over 16 years of experience in HR and customer experience, Sarah shares insights on how to shift from traditional performance reviews to a more continuous feedback model that fosters growth and engagement. Key Takeaways: Real-Time Feedback Loops: Learn how implementing continuous performance management can enhance employee engagement and performance. Cultural Shift: Discover the importance of psychological safety and a growth mindset in creating an environment ripe for agile performance management. 3 Practical Steps: Gain actionable strategies for initiating a successful transition to agile performance management, including starting small and measuring results. Tune in for valuable insights that can help reshape your organization's performance management practices! Guest(s): Sarah Katherine Schmidt, VP of Customer Experience, PeopleLogic

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Stephanie Lemek, founder and CEO of The Wounded Workforce. With over 16 years of HR experience, Stephanie discusses the importance of creating trauma-informed workplaces. She shares insights on how trauma affects employees and the critical role HR professionals play in recognizing and addressing these issues. Key Takeaways: Understanding Trauma: Learn about the prevalence of trauma among employees and its impact on workplace dynamics. Self-Care for HR Professionals: Discover the significance of self-awareness and self-care for HR leaders to combat secondary trauma and compassion fatigue. Seven Principles of Trauma-Informed Workplaces: Explore actionable steps to foster a supportive work environment that prioritizes safety, trust, community, and empowerment. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in HR practices. Guest(s): Stephanie Lemek, Founder and CEO, The Wounded Workforce

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Tom Schin owner of Build Better Culture, to explore the critical importance of workplace culture in today's organizations. Tom shares his journey from recruiting to becoming a culture expert, emphasizing how effective leadership and employee experience can transform company culture. Listeners will discover: The Importance of Culture: Understand why culture is a top concern for HR professionals and how it impacts employee retention and engagement. Building a Feedback-Rich Environment: Learn strategies for creating psychological safety and encouraging open communication within teams. Adapting to Hybrid Work: Gain insights on how to maintain a strong company culture for remote and hybrid employees, ensuring inclusivity and connection. Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking insights that can help organizations thrive in the evolving workplace landscape. Guest: Tom Schin

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Shari Collins, a consultant specializing in HR, education, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They delve into the often-overlooked topic of ageism as a critical component of DEI initiatives in the workplace. Collins shares her personal experiences with ageism and discusses the cultural implications of aging, emphasizing the need for organizations to address age-related biases. Listeners will gain insights into the following key takeaways: Understanding Ageism: Learn how ageism affects employees of all ages and why it is crucial to recognize and address this bias in the workplace. Coded Language: Discover common phrases and coded language that perpetuate ageism, and how to communicate more inclusively. Actionable Strategies: Explore practical strategies for fostering intergenerational relationships in the workplace, such as mentoring programs and shadow boards. Tune in to this enlightening conversation to better understand the importance of inclusivity across all age groups in your organization. Guest(s): Shari Collins, Owner and Lead Consultant, Shari Collins Consulting

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Lisa Marie Lee, founder of Linked Results LLC, to explore the critical role of data in evaluating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Dr. Lee, with her extensive background in the U.S. Navy and a PhD in education, emphasizes a human-centered approach to enhancing organizational performance through data analytics. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding employee feelings, the effectiveness of training programs, and the need for accountability in DEI efforts. Key Takeaways: Understanding Human Behavior: Dr. Lee highlights the significance of measuring not just demographics but also the emotional and behavioral aspects of employees to foster a truly inclusive workplace. The Kirkpatrick Model: The episode discusses how the Kirkpatrick Four Levels of Evaluation can be applied to assess the impact of DEI initiatives, emphasizing the need for continuous evaluation beyond just training completion. Leveraging Technology: Listeners will learn how technology, including simple tools like chatbots, can facilitate data collection and enhance engagement in DEI programs, making the process more accessible and effective. Tune in to gain insights on implementing data-driven DEI strategies that can lead to meaningful organizational change. Guest(s): Dr. Lisa Marie Lee, Founder | Consultant, Linked Results, LLC

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Kevin Wright, a senior racial equity facilitator and consultant. They delve into the importance of culturally responsive supervision and the need for organizations to shift towards inclusivity and equity. Dr. Wright shares his insights on how traditional supervisory practices can be transformed to better support marginalized communities and foster a more inclusive workplace culture. Key Takeaways: Culturally Responsive Leadership: Learn how to balance task-oriented supervision with a focus on building relationships and understanding diverse cultural backgrounds in the workplace. Addressing Resistance: Discover effective strategies for engaging with leaders who may be hesitant or resistant to DEI initiatives, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and vulnerability. Long-Term Commitment: Understand that progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion is a marathon, not a sprint, and requires sustained effort and intentionality to create meaningful change. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on advancing organizational equity and fostering a more inclusive work environment. Guest(s): Dr. Kevin L. Wright, Senior Racial Equity Facilitator/Consultant, Center for Equity and Inclusion