In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, a three-time Emmy award-winning broadcaster, keynote speaker, and author of "Cultivating Audacity: How to Dismantle Doubt and Take Bold Risks." With over three decades of experience in sports television, Anne Marie shares her insights on overcoming fear, embracing audacity, and fostering a culture of innovation in the workplace. Listeners will learn about the importance of taking bold risks and how to navigate common obstacles such as fear, time, money, and the inner critic. Anne Marie emphasizes the need for a supportive environment that encourages employees to be audacious and confident in their pursuits. Key Takeaways: Embrace Fear: Learn how to make friends with fear and use it as a tool for growth rather than a barrier. Say No: Discover the power of saying no to prioritize what truly matters and to take actionable steps toward personal authenticity. Curate Your Front Row: Understand the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive individuals who encourage you to take risks and pursue your dreams. Tune in to gain valuable insights on building confidence and audacity in both personal and professional settings! Guest(s): Anne Marie Anderson, Broadcaster, Author, and Keynote Speaker, AMA Speaks LLC
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Margaret McDonald, an international speaker and pro-aging advocate, to discuss ageism in the workplace. Margaret, the author of "100 Words on Everyday Ageism," shares her insights on how cultural beliefs about aging can impact employee well-being, productivity, and organizational dynamics. As the workforce becomes increasingly multigenerational, understanding and addressing age-related stereotypes is more crucial than ever. Key Takeaways: Understanding Ageism: Listeners will learn how common language and phrases contribute to ageism and how shifting this narrative can foster a more inclusive workplace. Pro-Aging Advocacy: Margaret emphasizes the importance of being a pro-aging advocate rather than an anti-ageism advocate, promoting a positive view of aging as a natural and valuable part of life. Co-Mentorship Strategies: The episode explores the concept of co-mentorship, where employees of different ages can learn from each other, enhancing skills and breaking down generational barriers. Tune in to gain valuable insights on creating a more inclusive and age-friendly workplace! Guest(s): Margaret McDonald, Pro-Aging Writer/Speaker/Advocate, Growing and Older
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Pam Jeffords, the managing partner at Diversity Works Group, to discuss the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Pam shares her journey into the DEI field, the challenges organizations face post-pandemic, and the importance of civil discourse in fostering an inclusive environment. They also delve into the impact of language on DEI initiatives and how technology, particularly AI, is transforming the way companies assess equity within their workforce. Key Takeaways: Understanding Civil Discourse: Pam emphasizes the need for civility over respect in workplace discussions, advocating for a culture where differing opinions can coexist without compromising core values. The Power of Language: The episode highlights how language shapes perceptions and behaviors in the workplace, urging listeners to be mindful of the words they use and their historical implications. Leveraging Technology for DEI: Pam discusses how AI can uncover unconscious biases in performance reviews, providing organizations with actionable data to promote equity and inclusion. Tune in to gain valuable insights into navigating the complexities of DEI and fostering a more inclusive workplace culture. Guest(s): Pam Jeffords, Managing Partner, Diversity Works Group
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Margaret Godwin, the HR Technology Consulting Practice Leader. With over 25 years of experience in HR technology consulting, Margaret shares her insights on selecting the right Human Capital Management (HCM) system for organizations. She emphasizes the importance of a thorough discovery process, the need for stakeholder involvement, and the critical factors to consider when evaluating HCM solutions. Key Takeaways: Discovery Process is Essential: Start with a comprehensive evaluation of your organization's needs and wants, involving all relevant stakeholders to ensure the selected HCM system meets everyone's requirements. Integration Testing: Understand the integration capabilities of potential HCM vendors by documenting your existing systems and asking the right questions about their integration experiences. Employee Involvement: Engage employees in the selection process through surveys and by including them in demos to gather valuable feedback on how the new system will impact their daily tasks. Tune in to gain valuable insights into making informed decisions about HR technology and enhancing employee experience in the workplace! Guest(s): Margaret Godwin, HR Technology Consulting Practice Leader
In this episode of "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Drew Fockler, a university professor specializing in HR and leadership studies. Known as a change champion, Dr. Fockler shares his insights on authentic leadership, emphasizing the importance of humility, empathy, and self-awareness in fostering a positive workplace culture. The conversation delves into how authenticity can impact employee engagement, crisis management, and the evolving dynamics of multi-generational workplaces. Key Takeaways: Understanding Authentic Leadership: Dr. Fockler defines authentic leadership as being comfortable with the unknown and embracing vulnerability, which fosters trust and collaboration within teams. The Role of Empathy: The episode highlights the critical role of empathy in leadership, especially in post-pandemic workplaces, where understanding employees' personal challenges can enhance overall morale and productivity. Navigating Generational Differences: Listeners will learn how different generations perceive authenticity and how leaders can adapt their approaches to meet the diverse needs of their teams. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to cultivate authentic leadership in your organization and make a lasting impact on your workplace culture. Guest(s): Dr. Drew Fockler, Course Lead/Assistant Professor, University Canada West
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Jeff Williams, the President and CEO of AptiaUS, to discuss the evolving landscape of benefits administration and the critical role of technology in enhancing employee satisfaction. With a rich background in tech-enabled services and a passion for aligning benefit strategies with organizational goals, Jeff shares valuable insights on how companies can create a culture of ownership through innovative benefits. Key Takeaways: Aligning Benefits with Company Culture: Jeff emphasizes the importance of aligning benefit strategies with the company's culture to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. The Role of Technology in Benefits Administration: The discussion highlights how emerging technologies, including AI, can personalize the benefits experience and support employees' mental and financial well-being. Understanding Employee Needs: Jeff advocates for a data-driven approach to benefits, encouraging HR professionals to survey employees to identify their needs and preferences, ensuring that benefits are equitable and impactful. Tune in to gain insights on how to effectively navigate the complexities of benefits administration and foster a supportive workplace culture. Guest(s): Jeff Williams, US President and CEO, Aptia US
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Brittany Boone, an industrial and organizational psychologist and diversity and inclusion consultant. They delve into the critical topic of unconscious bias in the workplace, discussing its implications even in organizations with strong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Dr. Boone shares her insights on how biases are formed, the importance of self-awareness, and the need for ongoing conversations about bias to foster inclusive workplace cultures. Key Takeaways: Understanding Unconscious Bias: Dr. Boone emphasizes that unconscious biases are not a reflection of one's character but rather how our brains process information and form patterns based on past experiences. The Importance of Self-Reflection: Leaders and employees alike must engage in self-reflection to identify their own biases, which is essential for creating a more inclusive environment. Building a Business Case for DEI: The episode highlights the necessity of demonstrating how diversity and inclusion efforts positively impact organizational performance, employee engagement, and overall job satisfaction. Tune in to gain valuable insights on fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding the nuances of unconscious bias in the workplace. Guest(s): Dr. Brittany Boone, Senior Consultant, VallotKarp Consulting
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Jessica Miller Merrill, the founder of Workology and CEO of Exceptional HR. Jessica shares her insights on the importance of psychological safety in the workplace and how technology can both support and hinder this crucial aspect of employee well-being. With her extensive experience in HR strategy and digital recruiting, Jessica emphasizes the need for open communication and boundaries to foster a psychologically safe environment. Key Takeaways: Understanding Psychological Safety: Learn what psychological safety means in the workplace and how it allows employees to be their authentic selves without fear of judgment or repercussions. Technology's Role: Discover how technology can be leveraged to enhance communication and support psychological safety while also recognizing its potential drawbacks, such as constant notifications and surveillance. Building Trust and Boundaries: Gain insights into the importance of establishing trust and setting boundaries as a manager and how these practices can lead to a healthier work environment for all employees. Tune in to this enlightening episode to explore how HR professionals can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Guest(s): Jessica Miller-Merrell, Founder, Workology
In this episode of "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Jim Link, the Chief Human Resources Officer for the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). They delve into the pressing issue of workplace civility, especially in the context of today's polarized society. Jim shares alarming statistics about the prevalence of incivility in the workplace and its significant impact on productivity and employee morale. He emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of civility and inclusivity within organizations to drive better business outcomes. Key Takeaways: Understanding Civility's Impact: Listeners will learn about the staggering statistics related to workplace incivility and its financial implications, including $1.2 billion in lost productivity per day. Practical Strategies for HR Professionals: Jim outlines actionable steps HR leaders can take to promote civil conversations and establish a culture of respect, including setting clear expectations and providing training. The Role of Leadership: The episode highlights the critical role that managers and leaders play in modeling civil behavior and fostering an inclusive workplace environment. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics and promote a culture of civility in your organization. Guest(s): Jim Link, CHRO, SHRM
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Alexandra Levitt, the founder and CEO of Inspiration at Work, to discuss the future of work, leadership, and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Alexandra, a workforce futurist and Wall Street Journal columnist, shares her insights on how organizations can prepare for upcoming workforce trends and the unique challenges faced by the emerging Gen Z workforce. Key Takeaways: Upskilling for the Future: Alexandra emphasizes the importance of applied technology skills and technological curiosity for women in the workforce, highlighting how these skills can enhance their unique strengths in emotional intelligence and creative problem-solving. Understanding Gen Z: The episode explores the expectations of Gen Z employees, who are entering the workforce with different experiences and challenges, particularly in communication and mental health. Organizations need to adapt their onboarding and training programs to meet these needs. The Role of Technology in DEI: Alexandra discusses how technology can help level the playing field in the workplace, particularly for underrepresented groups, and the necessity for organizations to embrace pay equity and transparency to foster a more inclusive environment. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to navigate the evolving landscape of work and empower diverse talent in your organization! Guest(s): Alexandra Levit, Workforce Futurist, WSJ Columnist, CEO at Inspiration at Work, Int'l Bestselling Author of Humanity Works
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Aaron Robbins, president of Intrinsic First, to discuss the critical topic of motivation in the workplace. With nearly 20 years of experience in leadership, HR, and process improvement, Aaron shares his insights on the difference between increasing motivation and improving the quality of motivation. He emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and the psychological needs of autonomy, relatedness, and competence in fostering a thriving organizational culture. Key Takeaways: Understanding Motivation Quality: Learn the distinction between low-quality external motivation and high-quality internal motivation, and why the latter is essential for employee well-being and performance. The Role of Psychological Needs: Discover the three basic psychological needs—autonomy, relatedness, and competence—that are crucial for enhancing motivation in employees. Creating a Supportive Environment: Gain insights into how leaders can cultivate a motivational environment by recognizing individual preferences for rewards and recognition, ultimately leading to a more engaged workforce. Guest(s): Aaron Robbins, President, Intrinsic First
🤝 How do you build accountability from day one? In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. David S. Cohen, a renowned author, keynote speaker, and consultant specializing in leadership, organizational behavior, and talent management. They delve into the critical topics of communication and accountability within organizations, particularly focusing on how HR leaders can effectively convey the importance of accountability to senior executives. Listeners will gain valuable insights into fostering a culture of accountability, understanding the significance of psychological safety, and implementing effective onboarding practices that set new hires up for success. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Belonging: Dr. Cohen emphasizes that accountability is rooted in employees feeling a sense of belonging and inclusion within the organization. Measuring Behavior: He discusses the need for organizations to measure behaviors consistently, rather than relying solely on performance metrics, to ensure accountability. Onboarding for Success: The episode highlights the importance of having clear expectations and development opportunities from day one to enhance accountability among new hires. Tune in to discover how to create a more accountable and engaged workforce! Guest(s): Dr. David S. Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen & Associates
✨ "Trust your gut and treat people decently." - Jim Reidy In this episode of "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with employment lawyer, public speaker, writer, and artist Jim Reidy. They delve into the complexities of HR law, sharing bizarre case stories and discussing the balance between legal compliance and fostering a positive company culture. Jim emphasizes the importance of staying informed about legal changes and the role of HR professionals in navigating these challenges. Key Takeaways: Bizarre HR Cases: Jim shares intriguing stories from his 35 years of experience in employment law, highlighting the unexpected challenges HR professionals may face. Navigating Legal Compliance: Listeners will learn practical strategies for managing legal risks while maintaining a progressive company culture, including the importance of proper messaging and leadership buy-in. Trusting Your Instincts: Jim encourages HR professionals to trust their gut feelings and prioritize common sense when making decisions related to HR law and employee treatment. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of HR law and how to effectively manage compliance while creating a thriving workplace culture. Guest(s): Jim Reidy, Attorney, Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with keynote speaker and president of Vantaggio HR, Lauraine Bifulco, at SHRM 24. They delve into the complexities of interviewing and compliance in the HR landscape, highlighting the importance of avoiding protected categories and ensuring fair hiring practices. Lauraine shares valuable insights on how to coach managers in conducting effective interviews while maintaining compliance with evolving legislation. Key Takeaways: Understanding Compliance: Learn about the critical compliance issues in interviewing, including protected categories and the importance of steering clear of inappropriate questions. Effective Interview Techniques: Discover how to prepare for interviews with structured questions that focus on cultural fit and teamwork, rather than personal characteristics. The Role of Assessments: Explore the benefits of using work style assessments to gain deeper insights into candidates' communication and management styles, and how to benchmark against your existing team. Tune in to gain practical advice and thought-provoking insights that will help transform your interviewing process and enhance your HR practices. Guest(s): Lauraine Bifulco, HR Expert | HR Consulting | Speaker, Vantaggio HR
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Joanna Colosimo, an IO psychologist and pay equity expert from DCI Consulting Group. They discuss the latest trends in pay equity, challenges in achieving pay equity, and the impact of pay transparency on organizations. Key Takeaways: Latest Trends in Pay Equity: Joanna highlights the global, state, and federal initiatives focusing on pay equity, emphasizing the importance of compliance with regulations. Challenges in Achieving Pay Equity: The episode delves into the complexities of achieving pay equity, including historical salary disparities and the need for annual pay equity reviews. Impact of Pay Transparency: The discussion explores how pay transparency laws are holding organizations accountable and empowering employees to ask strategic questions about their pay. Guest(s): Joanna Colosimo, Vice President at DCI Consulting Group
😂 From prom pictures to childhood posters, learn how simple conversations can spark joy and connection in the workplace! In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes John Baldino, speaker and president of Humareso, to discuss the importance of incorporating fun into workplace culture. Recorded live on the SHRM floor, Shari and John explore how genuine fun can enhance employee engagement and foster a positive work environment. They share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for HR professionals to create a more enjoyable workplace, whether in-person or remote. Key Takeaways: Intentional Fun: Discover how to intentionally integrate fun into daily tasks and team interactions, especially in distributed workforces. Authentic Engagement: Learn the difference between transactional fun and authentic engagement, and how to create genuine connections among team members. Leadership Buy-In: Understand how to approach leadership about the value of fun in the workplace, using relatable stories and examples to gain support. Tune in to gain insights on transforming workplace culture through fun and connection! Guest(s): John Baldino, President, Humareso
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes back John Bernatovicz, author of "HR Like a Boss" and founder of Willery. They dive into the transformative power of HR in the workplace, discussing how HR professionals can enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. John shares his personal journey of writing his book, the importance of assertiveness in HR, and the misconceptions that often surround the field. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to foster a positive workplace culture and the critical role HR plays in connecting employees to the organization's purpose. Key Takeaways: Ownership and Assertiveness: John emphasizes the need for HR professionals to take ownership of their roles and be assertive in advocating for employees. Building Relationships: The importance of creating genuine connections with employees to improve engagement and satisfaction is highlighted. Simplifying Priorities: John advises HR leaders to focus on a few key initiatives rather than overwhelming themselves with too many tasks, ensuring they drive meaningful change. Tune in to discover how to elevate your HR practices and make a lasting impact in your organization! Guest(s): John Bernatovicz, Author of HR LIke A Boss and Willory Founder
In this episode of HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. John Austin, the Dean of the University of New England Honors College and a partner at Dynamic Foresight. They discuss the shift from change leadership to strategic foresight and how HR professionals can navigate uncertainty in the workplace. Dr. Austin shares insights on the importance of adaptability, resiliency, and the integration of foresight and change management in organizations. Key Takeaways: Understanding Uncertainty: Dr. Austin emphasizes the importance of engaging with uncertainty rather than avoiding it, as it can lead to anxiety and missed opportunities. Building Resiliency: By preparing organizations to be future-proofed and adapting to changing circumstances, HR professionals can help build resiliency within their teams. Foresight in HR: Dr. Austin suggests incorporating discussions of uncertainties into HR facilitations and developing customized futures for organizations to stress test strategies effectively. Guest(s): Dr. John Austin, Dean of the University of New England Honors College and a partner at Dynamic Foresight
💼 Looking to make DEIA initiatives more than just a trend? In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast hosted by Shari Simpson, Dethra Giles, a people and culture strategist, discusses combating DEIA fatigue in organizations. They delve into the importance of attaching results to DEIA initiatives and making them practical for business success. Dethra shares a success story of reviving a fatigued organization by aligning DEIA efforts with business strategies, ultimately saving and potentially making millions. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding business acumen as an HR professional and implementing fresh, engaging approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Three Takeaways: Attach Results to DEIA: Combat DEIA fatigue by linking initiatives to performance, profits, and productivity. Focus on Business Acumen: HR professionals should understand the financial aspects of their organizations to drive DEIA efforts effectively. Expand Dimensions of Diversity: Encourage conversations about diverse populations beyond race to create a more inclusive workplace culture. Guest(s): Dethra Giles, Speaker, Author, & Chief Human Resources Officer at ExecuPrep
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Louis Lessig, a partner at Brown and Connery LLP, specializing in labor and employment law. They discuss key legal trends in employment cases, focusing on the impact of AI in the workplace and recent landmark cases like the Muldrow case. The conversation delves into the importance of compliance training, fostering a compliance-focused culture, and the future of HR law. Key Takeaways: AI Impact in Employment Cases: Learn about the evolving legal landscape surrounding AI in the workplace, including a groundbreaking case against Workday. Landmark Legal Cases: Gain insights into recent landmark cases like the Muldrow case and understand their implications for HR professionals. Compliance Culture: Discover the significance of fostering a compliance-focused culture in organizations and the importance of effective compliance training. Listen to the full episode for valuable insights into navigating legal challenges in the HR industry and staying ahead of compliance issues. Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Partner, Brown and Connery LLP,