Heroes of HR

Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, Ryan Leary and William Tincup sit down with industry analyst and keynote speaker Stacey Harris for a candid conversation that starts with leveling up HR—and doesn’t let up. From who really controls HR tech budgets (hint: not always HR) to why women in HR leadership still need more data to be trusted, this episode breaks down the hidden dynamics shaping the profession. Stacey unpacks why "HR is female-led" is both true and misleading, and how bias, brand perception, and clustering tech stacks intersect with business outcomes. The trio tackle tough topics: why women hold back other women, what trust really looks like in the C-suite, and the silent shift of HR tech decisions back to IT and finance. If you think compliance is boring, or gender equity is a solved problem, this one will force a second look. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live in Charlotte: pre-show chaos, banter, and keynote aftermath 01:00 — Leveling up HR: bias, perception, and why it still holds the function back 03:01 — Budget control shifts: from HR to IT, and the strategic consequences 04:43 — Branding HR tech to the C-Suite: who needs to know your name 06:00 — The Frankenstein effect: point solutions, data silos, and creeping IT takeover 08:04 — The “clustering model” explained: 3-4 anchors + best-of-suite agility 09:05 — Who should own vendor relationships? HR vs IT and business outcomes 10:00 — Why native integrations beat shallow “whizzy-wig” solutions 10:33 — The gender gap at the top: 70% female in HR, but not in leadership 13:00 — Why time tracking is a leadership issue, not just a process 14:50 — AI, wearables, and HR's frontline role in privacy and compliance 17:10 — The new compliance reality: constant change, no time to catch up 18:33 — Selling HR strategy: know your execs, brand, and organizational dynamics 21:25 — Women holding women back: the zero-sum trap in executive rooms 24:30 — Bias vs preference: how unconscious filters shape hiring and promotion 27:00 — Why women in HR bring more data—and why it’s expected of them 30:00 — Transformational leadership traits: how gender impacts process priorities 32:11 — Metric visibility gaps for female HR leaders 33:30 — Trust, retention, and why staying power matters more than ever This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Amberly Dressler, VP of Corporate Marketing at isolved, to uncover how a vibrant brand and thriving user community can drive adoption, advocacy, and trust. In this episode, they explore what makes isolved more than a software platform—from a pink cape movement to customers turning into evangelists. Amberly walks through how isolved’s community evolved from a digital engagement idea to a frontline knowledge network, powered by HR pros helping HR pros. They dive into the real business impact: certifications that follow users across jobs, feature updates based on user feedback, and a brand that shows up in Halloween costumes and job descriptions. Amberly also breaks down what it means to be a “People Hero” and why it’s not just HR leaders—but every manager on the ground—who shapes employee experience. If you're in HCM and still treating marketing as decoration instead of a strategic driver of loyalty and product growth, this one’s your mirror. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: intros, inside jokes, and isolved love 00:45 — What corporate marketing owns at isolved (spoiler: nearly everything but payroll) 02:00 — Why isolved customers name-drop their CSMs 03:19 — Building trust you can't fake: community-first service model 04:10 — The rise of isolved’s Community: from FAQ board to digital lifeline 05:25 — 30–40% of product updates come from customer input 06:10 — People Heroes certification: why isolved built one and what it covers 07:51 — Product adoption, job descriptions, and customers taking isolved with them 09:03 — Brand as adoption engine: pink swag, capes, and real-life buy-in 10:45 — Could isolved Community power a job board? (and why it might already be happening) 11:59 — Empowering the selfless: certifications, credits, and 8-hour growth windows 13:10 — Expanding the definition of People Heroes: managers, not just HR 14:32 — The daily mindset: “Who wakes up thinking about this?” defines your impact 15:11 — Wrapping up: on the road again, together This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Kaitlin, an HR leader in the credit union space, for a grounded conversation on feedback, burnout, and why putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s survival. Kaitlin shares the mindset shift that changed her leadership style: learning how to give effective feedback as a people pleaser. She breaks down how holding others accountable doesn’t have to mean being harsh—and why the delivery matters just as much as the message. The conversation moves into burnout, boundary-setting, and the permission COVID gave everyone to finally say “no.” From the rise of AI anxiety to HR’s ongoing juggling act, Kaitlin offers a personal, practical perspective on how professionals—especially working moms—can protect their energy and still lead with empathy. They close out with a look into what “people heroes” really are and why the credit union model might just be HR’s best-kept secret. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: local shows, travel woes, and South Carolina roots 02:28 — Kaitlin on feedback: holding people accountable as a people pleaser 04:00 — The feedback model: public praise, private criticism 06:11 — What HR’s really going through: burnout, boundaries, and balance 07:16 — Giving yourself permission to leave early and take the break 08:46 — The lasting cultural impact of COVID: empathy and working hour boundaries 09:54 — Caitlin on AI: helpful for grammar, overwhelming as a trend 11:05 — Advice to her younger HR self: the task list can wait, personal development can’t 12:04 — What “people heroes” really means: helpers, problem-solvers, lifters 12:43 — HR in credit unions: people helping people isn’t just a slogan—it’s the structure This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Forget fire drills—most HR leaders don’t even know the building’s on fire. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Steve Lenderman, Head of Fraud Prevention at isolved, for a sobering look inside the underbelly of payroll fraud—and what most vendors aren’t telling you. From synthetic identities and device biometrics to dark web marketplaces and machine learning scams, Steve exposes how payroll fraud is evolving faster than most teams can keep up—and why treating payroll like a bank is the only path forward. This episode isn’t just a wake-up call—it’s a blueprint for survival in a world where one compromised login can bankrupt a business. If your payroll provider can’t answer basic questions about fraud prevention, you’re already at risk. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: small shows, real conversations 00:45 — Steve Lenderman joins: banking roots and the road to isolved 02:05 — Payroll is banking: incoming, outgoing, and holding funds 04:26 — First-party fraud: fictitious businesses and payroll float scams 07:00 — Third-party fraud: account takeovers, ghost employees, diverted funds 08:29 — Predictive vs. reactive fraud models: what payroll should learn from banks 10:05 — Digital identity: from mouse movements to behavioral biometrics 12:07 — Twins and bad data: how traditional identity checks fall short 14:05 — Synthetic identity: the rise of fully fake individuals and businesses 16:04 — The new dark web: fraud tactics now shared on open platforms 17:51 — Cyber ≠ fraud: most fraud starts with cyber, but ends with money 20:00 — The $10M problem: why local law enforcement won’t touch payroll fraud 20:57 — The knockout question: “What’s your fraud prevention posture?” 23:39 — Final warning: if fraud prevention isn’t baked into the product, run This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Barry Flanagan and Steve McWright to dissect the mess of managing global payroll—and the unexpected consequences of getting it wrong. From pouring the perfect pint of Guinness to navigating compliance chaos in Poland and Argentina, this episode blends humor with hard truths. Barry and Steve share how hidden jurisdiction issues, fragmented systems, and reactive processes threaten not just legal standing, but employee trust. The solution? Full visibility, automation, and radical transparency. They walk through a success story of seven countries unified under one platform, and explain why access to accurate information isn't just operationally smart—it’s a philosophy for 2025. People heroes aren't just administrators. They’re leaders who consolidate, automate, and empathize. Timestamps: 00:00 — Guinness, rugby, and global context: the Irish connection to compliance 04:28 — The real challenge: payroll consolidation across countries and services 06:17 — Success story: 7 countries, 1 platform, total workforce clarity 07:39 — Compliance blind spots from COVID-era remote work 08:32 — Hyperinflation and policy reversals: Argentina, Poland, France 10:03 — The cost of non-compliance: lost benefits, broken trust 12:08 — Steve on the path forward: automate, empower, consolidate 13:00 — Barry on transparency as HR’s 2025 leadership mandate 14:07 — Defining People Heroes: empathy, leadership, and showing up This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What do RBF, flight anxiety, and bilingual recruiting have in common? For Carli, they’re just part of the ride. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, Ryan Leary and William Tincup sit down with Carli—former bank teller turned talent acquisition pro—for a fast-moving conversation on growth, grit, and giving candidates the truth. She shares how internal mobility and hands-on training set her up to thrive in TA, why knowing the roles you recruit for makes all the difference, and how showing up quiet doesn’t mean showing up small. From language gaps in candidate pools to avoiding week-long HR disasters, this episode dives into the real-life challenges of frontline recruiting—and how to face them head-on. If you’ve ever felt underestimated, misunderstood, or unprepared in your first HR gig, Carli’s path will hit home. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: First flights, Xanax jokes, and crash soundtracks 02:01 — Meet Carli: Teller to trainer to HR pro in under six years 03:06 — How teaching every job trained her for TA 04:10 — The bilingual candidate search: open house recruiting and community outreach 05:30 — Why job boards aren’t enough: doing the footwork 06:04 — Filtering 50+ applicants down to 5 that actually care 06:28 — Carli’s go-to interview question that reveals real character 07:07 — “How are you misunderstood?”: the secret question that changes interviews 09:00 — Being quiet, focused, and wrongly judged in the workplace 10:51 — Advice for newbies: be a sponge, take notes, don’t jump the gun 12:49 — “Being a People Hero means saving the day—and stopping the dumpster fires” 13:29 — The post-it mantra: Do first what you dread most 14:47 — Corporate pressure vs. real priorities: why one task done well beats 50 half-finished tasks This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Most employees aren't blowing their paychecks on luxury. They're buying diapers, groceries, and tires to get to work. So why are they still waiting weeks to access money they've already earned? Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, Ryan Leary and William Tincup sit down with Shae from ZayZoon to talk about the financial stress quietly crushing American workers—and what employers can actually do about it. They dig into the data (70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck), the misconceptions ("just budget better"), and the systems that make financial hardship worse, not better. Shae shares her personal story of walking out of a grocery store with $7 in her account and no way to pay for diapers—then explains how earned wage access could have changed everything. The trio also debates car leases, the pros and cons of renting, the psychology of Zoom calls, and why empathy—not judgment—needs to be core to every people strategy. If you think financial wellness is just a "nice to have" benefit, this episode is your reality check. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: plushies, people heroes, and payroll mascots 02:03 — Meet Shaye: ZayZoon, earned wage access, and fixing financial stress 03:15 — 70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck—why it’s not just a “poor” problem 04:48 — Budgeting isn’t the solution when you're suddenly earning more 06:13 — Renting vs. owning: why fluid lifestyles shift financial priorities 08:16 — Shae's Tesla lease and working remote: new rules of money 10:00 — Do we really multitask, or just code switch poorly? 11:27 — HR’s retention problem: losing talent over $2/hour 13:12 — Why financial stress destroys engagement and how to fix it 14:46 — Shae's personal story: $7.57 in the bank and walking out of the grocery line 17:19 — What workers really use wage access for: essentials, not indulgence 18:11 — Teaching financial literacy as part of earned wage access 18:44 — Payday loans vs. autonomy: putting power back in workers’ hands 19:18 — The HR mindset shift: empathy over judgment 21:09 — What being a People Hero really means in practice 22:31 — Final word: awareness, availability, and recognition as leadership tools This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What do audits, algorithms, and HR policy have in common? More than you think—and the consequences of getting it wrong are growing by the day. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Tami Nutt, VP at Aspect 43, to unpack the uncomfortable truths about AI in HR: what’s regulated, what’s not, and why HR leaders can’t afford to stay in the dark. Tami walks through the critical questions HR should be asking their vendors, the myth of in-house AI audits, and why ethical AI starts with knowing what not to automate. From compliance landmines in NYC to why “just because you can doesn’t mean you should” is the new HR tech mantra, this episode puts the spotlight on accountability. If your HR tech pitch doesn’t include third-party audits, transparent data sourcing, or human-centric design—this is your red flag. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: Texas shoutouts, Jersey slander, and opening laughs 02:07 — Tami 's keynote preview: AI, HR, and what compliance really means 03:00 — The compliance blind spot: why ethical AI matters now more than ever 04:27 — NYC laws, vendor audits, and who’s really on the hook for bad AI 05:34 — Buyer beware: the questions you must ask your HR tech vendors 06:44 — Risk, bias, and invisible decisions: the human cost of unchecked AI 07:58 — Can your sales rep explain your AI model? Why they should 08:50 — Proof, not pitch decks: how to verify real compliance claims 10:10 — Open vs closed models: training data, risk layers, and hybrid approaches 12:15 — Empathy over automation: where AI doesn’t belong 14:00 — Post-COVID reality: HR changed, but did leadership forget? 17:17 — Sales and cost savings now outrank recruiting—why HR is stuck in the middle 18:35 — HR’s new mandate: connect people strategy to business performance 19:38 — Live demos, real audits, and vendor red flags to watch 20:51 — Tami 's final takeaway: make AI actionable, human, and accountable now This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What do a basement full of paper records, a ferry ride to work, and a thriving customer advisory board have in common? They're all part of the story behind isolved’s “people heroes” movement. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, Ryan Leary and William Tincup sit down with Paige La Fever, Director of Community Relations at isolved, to unpack how HR tech companies can build real trust—not just tools. Paige reveals how isolved’s community evolved from a tactical advocacy platform into a strategic growth engine, giving HR pros a voice, visibility, and an actual seat at the product table. From leveraging Influitive to activate customer networks to letting executives take live feedback on the chin, this episode is a crash course in customer intimacy at scale. She also shares why letting clients leave gracefully is the key to long-term retention—and why some do come back. And in the middle of it all? A payroll hero from Alaska who went from paper trails to panel talks. If your idea of “community” still involves newsletters and a Slack channel, this conversation will recalibrate your playbook. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from isolved Connect: conference formats, partner strategy, and a face for radio 01:14 — Meet Paige: reputation, advocacy, references, and a whole lot more 02:30 — People Heroes origins: how a tactical program turned into a customer-led movement 03:42 — How isolved uses Influitive to power connection, feedback, and activation 05:00 — Why most vendor communities fail—and why this one didn’t 06:22 — Transparency in action: when product feedback gets answered on the spot 07:53 — Advisory boards, real feedback, and expanding by industry or size 09:34 — Customer story: Jaylene in Alaska, from file cabinets to featured panelist 11:03 — What “People Heroes” really means—and why isolved sees itself as the sidekick 12:04 — Winning over new HR leaders who didn’t choose isolved 13:25 — Why a graceful offboarding is the best retention strategy 14:46 — The part of isolved people don’t see: it still feels like family 16:07 — Analyst relations, vendor bias, and navigating credibility in paid ecosystems 18:34 — Wrapping with Irish goodbyes and party predictions This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What happens when a standalone ATS evolves into a fully integrated talent strategy? You get a platform that doesn’t just fill roles—it fills gaps in bandwidth, strategy, and execution. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, Ryan Leary and William Tincup sit down with Bridget Fleagle to talk talent acquisition, product strategy, and how isolved Talent Services is reshaping support for small HR teams. Bridget shares the real reason standalone solutions still matter, why some HR pros don’t even know what tools they already have, and how isolved’s services team quietly does the heavy lifting for businesses too small to build an HR department. They also dig into the tension between adding features and killing them off—why product teams struggle to sunset, what "broccoli vs. chocolate" has to do with innovation, and how listening to customers is both a gift and a trap. For anyone building product, managing people, or just trying to hire faster with fewer hands, this one hits home. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: regional events, live crowds, and podcast energy 00:49 — Bridget’s origin story: from ApplicantPro to leading TA at isolved 02:27 — Rebranding and integration: from standalone ATS to isolved Talent Acquisition 03:40 — Turning on tools customers didn’t know they had 05:17 — Smart upsells vs. feature frustration 06:14 — Real customer stories and the power of data continuity 07:01 — Why isolved TA isn’t just “another ATS” 07:48 — Deep integrations and strategy alignment 08:00 — Presentation breakdown: candidate experience and talent services 09:01 — How isolved supports small teams lacking HR resources 10:15 — Screening, video interviewing, and hiring assessments explained 11:03 — Why trades and sub-50 headcount companies benefit most 12:09 — Inside the isolved product roadmap process 13:48 — The balance of agility and vision in product planning 14:54 — Feature bloat, user adoption, and killing your darlings 17:50 — Why product teams resist removing features (and why they shouldn’t) 20:02 — A deleted feature no one noticed: when silence is insight 21:22 — Chocolate vs. broccoli: stretching users past what they think they want 22:14 — Competitor analysis and the trap of roadmap smoke and mirrors 23:19 — Real product = live software, not demo videos 23:48 — People Heroes defined: energy, advocacy, and showing up for humans This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What do 8th graders, international trade shows, and HR feedback culture have in common? According to Patty Kallman—everything. Recorded live at isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Patty Kallman, Director of Professional Development at Kallman Worldwide, to unpack the parallels between education and leadership development. Patty brings a nontraditional HR lens to the table, drawing from her 16 years in the classroom and her PhD in education. The conversation digs into the real markers of disengagement, why pizza parties don’t solve burnout, and how to create safe, trust-driven work environments without hiding behind anonymous surveys. They cover the reality of post-COVID growth, hybrid work patterns, the psychology of feedback, and the surprising similarities between a high school dropout and a disengaged employee. Whether you're leading 50 people or 2,000, this episode drives home one point: trust isn't scalable without intention—and feedback without safety is noise. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: trade shows, podcast jokes, and teacher energy 00:54 — Patty's origin story: from high school classrooms to company leadership 02:55 — From 50 to 9 to 57: rebuilding a team post-COVID 03:45 — Disengagement red flags: the data behind absentee patterns 04:43 — Culture isn't bean bags: how post-COVID leadership must evolve 05:16 — The feedback gap: why most managers never ask the right questions 06:30 — Building feedback loops without fear or punishment 07:19 — Proactive vs reactive leadership in small orgs 08:10 — Anonymous feedback vs real conversations: what’s actually useful 08:52 — Trust is a two-way street: transparency, consistency, and intent 10:24 — Clear intent: what HR can learn from military command structures 12:17 — The power of storytelling to align managers and mission 14:14 — What being a “People Hero” actually looks like in practice 15:02 — Creating environments where people thrive, not just survive This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

What do Walmart cash pickups, DoorDash paychecks, and AI-powered wage access have in common? A future where your job doesn’t need a bank to pay you. Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Art Kimball from Green Dot’s rapid! division to explore the evolving world of pay distribution and why traditional payroll systems are failing today’s workforce. From unbanked middle-class workers to Gen Z avoiding resumes altogether, this episode unpacks how earned wage access is reshaping employee expectations—and why choice, ethics, and transparency matter more than ever. Art also breaks down why payroll needs guardrails, how predatory models are slipping through, and what HR leaders should be asking before rolling out any pay-on-demand solution. If you think early access to pay is just a “nice-to-have,” you’re already behind. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: Kimball museums, DNA detectives, and HR talk derailed 03:20 — What is Green Dot? Financial inclusion and the unbanked 04:56 — Earned wage access: how rapid! gives employees control 05:25 — Walmart cash pickup: payroll without a bank 06:46 — Breaking payroll traditions: why the biweekly check is outdated 07:11 — rapid! vs Green Dot: B2B vs DTC, and launching with Samsung 09:13 — Text-to-pay: money movement through mobile 10:21 — The client sell: helping HR leaders compete with gig work 11:10 — Why fast food led the earned wage revolution 13:00 — The hidden trap: taxes, benefits, and getting it wrong 14:34 — Net vs gross access: how rapid! protects employees and employers 15:45 — Guardrails, fee caps, and the ethics of access 16:27 — The payday loan problem: not all wage access is created equal 18:33 — Financial literacy: the real challenge isn’t access, it’s behavior 20:09 — Why delivery mechanisms matter more than you think 20:40 — People Heroes defined: showing up, staying human, and doing the work This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Live from isolved Connect in Charlotte, William Tincup and Ryan Leary finally catch up with Amy Mosher (Chief People Officer) and Celia Fleischaker (Chief Marketing Officer) after a few tech hurdles and plenty of banter. This conversation blends HR leadership with real-time transformation, as Amy and Celia break down what HR teams are actually dealing with—beyond the buzzwords. They dive into the results from isolved’s latest HR Leaders Report, exposing the real tensions between employer priorities and employee well-being, and why HR now has to do more with less—again. Amy brings the CPO perspective: where AI isn't a looming threat but a practical tool to give time back to people. Celia adds insight on how adoption is happening—not everywhere, but in the right places—and why optimization isn’t about buying more software, but using it better. The episode closes with personal reflections on “People Heroes,” a term that becomes more than just branding—framing HR as mission-driven professionals navigating change, empathy, and impact. Timestamps: 00:00 — Live from Charlotte: chaos, chemistry, and pink champagne 02:12 — Keynote preview: HR Leader Report, product solutions, and real-world application 04:46 — Why live feedback loops between customers and product matter 06:19 — The HR pendulum: shifting power back to the employer 07:13 — AI trust is rising, but clarity still determines adoption 08:47 — Amy on what AI is—and isn’t—replacing in HR 09:52 — Understanding leads to acceptance: the human side of HR tech 12:00 — Pandemic reflections and the return of real empathy in business 13:34 — Are HR teams actually adopting new tech? Where, how, and why 14:50 — Optimization over expansion: using what you already have 17:01 — Amy defines People Heroes: HR on a mission to change the world 17:42 — Celia’s take: empathy, selflessness, and life-stage impact through HR 18:32 — Tearjerker warning and the last laugh with two of isolved’s best This episode was recorded live at isolved Connect on the UNC Charlotte campus. The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM platform that modernizes HR, benefits, and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, and more. Learn more about isolved: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Michelle Hamilton from Adore Me joins the Heroes of HR podcast to discuss flexibility in job applications, navigating career changes, and the value of community. With insights from isolved’s customer service excellence and the People Heroes community, this episode is packed with actionable advice for HR professionals. In this episode, we look at HR, job applications, career growth, flexibility, community, customer service, isolved, Adore Me, Michelle Hamilton, and People Heroes. Michelle emphasizes that job descriptions are guidelines, not barriers, and shares strategies to empower HR professionals through supportive networks and exceptional service standards. Key Takeaways Adore Me is a fashion brand prioritizing sustainability and green practices Applicants should view job descriptions as flexible guidelines, not rigid criteria Applying for jobs outside your comfort zone fosters growth People Heroes is a supportive community for HR professionals to share and recharge Flexibility in HR is essential for navigating career changes and fostering resilience isolved is known for responsive and reliable customer service Timely support in payroll is critical to business success Webinars and master classes help HR professionals stay current Community challenges and activities bring fun and connection to the HR world Building communities like People Heroes strengthens the HR industry isolved sets a high bar for customer satisfaction in HR tech Flexibility and support networks are key to long-term success The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

In this episode of the Heroes of HR podcast, Jaylene Owens shares her experiences as an HR professional in Sitka, Alaska, navigating the unique challenges of talent retention and employee wellbeing in a remote community. From the critical importance of mental health to leveraging AI and automation to enhance HR processes, Jaylene highlights the role of ‘People Heroes’ in creating a supportive work environment. With isolved as a trusted HR solution, she offers actionable strategies for overcoming obstacles and prioritizing self-care as an HR leader. We explore HR, talent retention, mental health, AI, automation, employee experience, isolved, People Heroes, wellbeing, and HR challenges to uncover practical insights for today’s HR professionals. Key Takeaways: Securing and retaining talent is especially challenging in remote areas. Limited mental health resources can significantly impact employee wellbeing. AI and automation streamline HR processes, improving efficiency and experience. People Heroes are central to fostering a positive and productive work environment. isolved serves as a comprehensive tool for managing HR and payroll effectively. Self-care practices like time blocking and prioritizing tasks help HR professionals manage stress. Technology and physical wellness are key to achieving work-life balance and maintaining wellbeing. Chapters: 00:00: Who is Jaylene Owens? 03:03: Challenges in HR: Talent Retention and Wellbeing 06:06: The Future of HR: Embracing AI and Automation 08:54: Understanding the Role of People Heroes 10:58: Describing isolved: A Comprehensive HR Solution 12:00: Recharging the HR Battery: Self-Care Strategies The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Jaylene Owens here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlineberry/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

Summary: In this episode of the Heroes of HR Limited Series podcast, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Brandon Rumler, Executive Director of Skyline Center, to explore the unique HR challenges in the nonprofit sector. From talent acquisition hurdles to the transformative power of isolved’s HR technology, Brandon highlights how passion and thoughtful employee recognition drive success. He shares insights on building a supportive workplace culture and finding joy in making a difference for individuals with disabilities. We cover nonprofit, talent acquisition, employee management, passion, isolved, Skyline Center, community service, HR technology, employee experience, and disability services to provide actionable insights for HR professionals in the nonprofit sector. Key Takeaways: Skyline Center provides essential services for individuals with disabilities, making employee commitment crucial. Finding quality candidates remains a significant challenge for nonprofits in competitive job markets. Passion for service is a vital attribute for nonprofit employees. isolved’s HR technology streamlines employee management and enhances the employee experience. Celebrating employee milestones fosters a positive and engaging workplace culture. Wage competitiveness continues to challenge nonprofits compared to for-profit organizations. Employee recognition and community-building are vital for nonprofit success and retention. Chapters: 00:00: Who is Brandon Rumler? 02:51: Brandon Rumler's Role and Skyline Center Overview 05:54: Challenges in Nonprofit Talent Acquisition 08:54: The Importance of Passion in Nonprofit Work 12:03: isolved's Impact on Employee Management 14:55: Finding Joy in Nonprofit Work 17:59: Closing Thoughts and Call to Action The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Brandon Rumler here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-rumler-04282576/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

Summary: In this episode of the Heroes of HR podcast, William Tincup and Ryan Leary sit down with Isela Conley, Director of Talent Acquisition at isolved, to explore the evolving world of recruiting and employee experience. From her journey from accounting to talent acquisition to the critical role of AI and data-driven insights, Isela provides a candid look at the challenges and opportunities in modern HR. She emphasizes the balance between candidate advocacy and business needs, the importance of meaningful workplace culture, and her personal strategies for recharging as a leader. We discuss HR, talent acquisition, recruiting, employee experience, technology, AI, staffing, workplace culture, career development, and people hero to uncover actionable strategies for navigating the future of work. Key Takeaways: Isela Conley’s leadership drives innovation in talent acquisition at isolved. Post-COVID competition for top talent has fundamentally changed recruiting. Creating meaningful employee experiences is critical for retention and engagement. AI and data-driven tools are essential to optimize the recruiting process. Recruiters must balance candidate advocacy with achieving business goals. Building a culture where employees feel valued fosters loyalty and productivity. Personal well-being and discipline, including fitness, are key to effective leadership. Chapters: 00:00: Who is Isela Conley? 06:01: Challenges in Talent Acquisition Today 12:07: Defining the People Hero Role 17:52: Personal Insights and Recharge Strategies The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Isela Conley here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iselaconley/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

Summary: In this episode of the Heroes of HR podcast, William Tincup, and Ryan Leary are joined by Amy Mosher, Chief People Officer of isolved, to explore the evolving role of HR in workplace transformation. With over 25 years of experience, Amy dives into optimizing talent acquisition with AI, the significance of performance management, and the transformative power of strong company culture. She discusses the concept of 'People Heroes' and offers practical strategies for HR professionals to recharge their passion for the profession. We cover HR, isolved, talent acquisition, AI, employee experience, performance management, company culture, People Heroes, leadership, and workplace transformation to provide actionable insights for driving organizational success. Key Takeaways: Amy Mosher’s 25+ years in HR bring a wealth of insight into industry challenges and solutions. Leveraging AI can significantly enhance talent acquisition and hiring processes. A strong focus on performance management is key to successful cultural transformation. A four-and-a-half-day workweek can improve employee morale and engagement. The concept of 'People Heroes' highlights the importance of HR’s advocacy for employees. Building trust within an organization fosters growth and collaboration. A supportive team is essential for recharging and sustaining passion in HR. Chapters: 00:00: Who is the real Amy Mosher, isolved Chief People Officer? 05:59: Optimizing Talent Acquisition with AI 12:07: Explaining isolved to the Uninitiated 17:57: Recharging the People Hero Battery The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Amy Mosher here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-m-mosher/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

In this episode of the Heroes of HR podcast, Sagar Lakhani brings over 11 years of HR expertise to the table, sharing insights on navigating the shifting landscape of talent acquisition, employee expectations, and payroll management. From the importance of quality in hiring to adapting to post-pandemic workforce needs, Sagar emphasizes the role of HR in improving employee lives. With isolved as a critical tool for streamlining payroll and workforce management, this episode delivers practical strategies for creating engagement and maintaining productivity in HR roles. We cover HR, talent acquisition, employee expectations, payroll, workforce management, compliance, staffing, work-life balance, employee engagement, and human resources to provide actionable insights for HR professionals. Key Takeaways: Finding and hiring the right talent remains a top priority for HR professionals. Quality in hiring processes has a lasting impact on workforce success. Post-pandemic, employee expectations demand flexibility and adaptation. isolved simplifies payroll management and reduces the risk of errors. Taking breaks and handling easier tasks helps maintain productivity and energy. Work-life balance and well-being are essential for both employees and HR teams. Engaging with employees drives satisfaction and retention. Chapters: 00:00: Who is Sagar Lakhani? 05:57: Understanding Employee Expectations 08:42: The Role of Payroll in Workforce Management 10:15: Recharging and Maintaining Productivity The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Sagar Lakhani here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagardlakhani/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

In this episode of the Heroes of HR podcast, we’re joined by Mary Kay Kirgis, HR Director at Guttenberg Municipal Hospitals and Clinics, to dive into the unique challenges of healthcare staffing. From addressing the nursing shortage to creating talent pipelines through community engagement, Mary Kay shares actionable insights for HR professionals. With isolved as a trusted HR solution, she highlights the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and continuous learning in building a resilient workforce and a thriving workplace culture. We cover HR, healthcare staffing, talent pipelines, employee advocacy, human resources, nursing shortage, and community engagement to uncover strategies shaping the future of HR in healthcare. Key Takeaways: Nursing shortages remain a critical issue in healthcare staffing. Partnering with community colleges helps build sustainable talent pipelines. HR professionals must advocate equally for employees and the organization. isolved is a comprehensive tool for streamlining HR operations. Collaboration within HR teams boosts morale and efficiency. Understanding community needs enhances recruitment strategies. Continuous learning keeps HR professionals prepared for evolving challenges. Chapters: 00:00: Who is Mary Kay Kirgis 03:32: Challenges in Healthcare Staffing 05:53: Building Talent Pipelines for the Future 07:05: The Role of HR as Employee Advocates 09:11: Understanding isolved: A One-Stop HR Solution 10:06: Recharging the HR Battery: Personal Growth and Learning The Heroes of HR podcast is a limited series sponsored by isolved. isolved is an HCM solution modernizes HR, benefits and payroll across Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing & more. You can learn more about isolved here: https://www.isolvedhcm.com/ Connect with Mary Kay Kirgis here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-kay-kirgis-40ba8b4a/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network