The Virtual Vibe Podcast

Welcome to The Virtual Vibe, the podcast that dives deep into HR strategies for keeping a workforce happy, healthy, and connected in a work-from-home world. Join our host, David Howe, CEO of Bright Breaks, as he interviews industry experts, thought leaders, and HR professionals who are pioneering innovative approaches to promote a culture of well-being in their companies. Whether you're an HR professional looking for inspiration or a business leader interested in cultivating a productive remote workforce, this podcast is your go-to resource for practical tips, insights, and success stories.

Building a Virtual Culture: Eran Mizrahi’s Secrets to Remote Employee Engagement

Hello, workplace wellness champions! Welcome to Episode 15 of The Virtual Vibe Podcast. I'm your host, David Howe, CEO and co-founder of Bright Breaks. This week, we're thrilled to have Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Ingredient Brothers, join us. With a background in global raw, natural, and specialty ingredient sourcing and as a former COO of Nuts.com, Eran brings a wealth of experience managing remote teams across multiple continents.In this insightful episode, we dive into effective HR strategies for a happy, healthy, connected remote workforce. Eran shares his journey from South Africa to the U.S., his entrepreneurial leap with Ingredient Brothers, and his valuable lessons. Get ready to explore the nuances of employee engagement, the importance of purpose, values, and security in a virtual work environment, and practical tips for fostering deep connections and trust within your team.Tune in for a compelling conversation that promises to equip you with actionable strategies to enhance your remote workforce experience. Enjoy the episode!

05-19
20:59

From Concept to Culture: Building Authentic Corporate Values

Welcome to The Virtual Vibe Podcast! I'm David Howe, your host, and today, we have the amazing Madeline Des Jardins, the global senior director of internal communications and employee engagement at Walkme, joining us.In this episode, Madeline reveals the five key elements of strong corporate values: simplicity, targeted actions, aspiration, authenticity, and stability. Discover how these principles can make values easy to remember and how they can be integrated into daily company life, including performance reviews and bonuses.Madeline shares her insights from her time at Disneyland to Walkme, emphasizing that values should not just be words on a page but should be lived and breathed in every aspect of an organization.Learn about the six-month journey to develop values that empower and unite employees and how these values can enhance performance and engagement.Join us as we discuss maintaining authenticity in your values, the importance of getting employees on board with company culture, and how recognition platforms like Walkme's Work Proud can reinforce values every day.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on creating a workplace where community thrives through shared, lived, and celebrated values. This is The Virtual Vibe Podcast, and we're just getting started!

04-19
42:33

Integrating Benefits and Wellness: Insights from Roger Thorpe of Thorpe Benefits

Welcome to The Virtual Vibe Podcast, where we explore HR strategies for building a happy, healthy, and connected workforce. In this episode, our host, David Howe, sits down with Roger Thorpe, President of Thorpe Benefits, to discuss the evolving landscape of employee wellness and the role of benefits in the workplace. Roger shares valuable insights on the changes in the benefits and wellness space, advising companies on building effective wellness programs, securing budget for wellness initiatives, and measuring the success of these programs. Join us as we delve into the details of creating a healthy and supportive work environment.

03-22
23:45

Unveiling 2024 Workplace Well-Being Trends: Insights from Sequoia's Shannon Arens

Welcome to The Virtual Vibe Podcast, where we explore HR strategies for a happy, healthy, and connected workforce. In this episode, our host, David Howe, is joined by Shannon Arens, the manager of wellbeing consulting at Sequoia. Shannon shares her 20-year journey in the wellness and corporate wellbeing space and gives insight into the trends in well-being for 2024. They delve into the pillars of well-being, how to reframe the value of well-being programs and strategies for building a holistic well-being plan for employees. Shannon's advice for HR leaders on getting started with well-being initiatives is also a highlight of this enlightening conversation. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of The Virtual Vibe Podcast!

03-15
21:40

From Tech to Healthcare: Lauren Ernst’s Bold Career Leap

Welcome, Virtual Vibe listeners, to another fascinating episode of your favorite deep-dive into the interplay of technology and human dynamics in the workplace. I'm your host, David Howe, and today's show, episode eleven, promises to be a truly inspiring listen.We're thrilled to have Lauren Ernst join us on The Virtual Vibe Podcast. As the Communications and Employee Experience Lead at Halliburton Highlands Health Services, Lauren has a unique story that takes us from the bustling tech hubs of London, Ontario, to the heart-centered corridors of healthcare. Her journey is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the search for meaningful work.In today's conversation, we'll uncover the pivots and passions that led Lauren from a high-paced tech environment to crafting roles that touch the hearts and minds of hospital staff. She'll share insights into overcoming industry burnout, the art of pitching impactful wellness initiatives to leadership, and the importance of nurturing a supportive culture in any sector.What's more, Lauren is a prolific sharer of video content and discussions that relate to these topics on LinkedIn, where she encourages the continuation of dialogue. David recommends everyone to follow her there for a more in-depth look at her work and ideas.So, whether you're seeking inspiration to rejuvenate your team's spirit or simply curious about the personal drive that leads to a career shift, this episode with Lauren Ernst is not one you'll want to miss. Join us in exploring how to be bold, curious, and proactive in both personal and professional realms. Don't forget to follow Lauren on LinkedIn to keep the conversation going, and, as always, stay tuned for more of The Virtual Vibe Podcast.

02-04
39:17

Remote Workforce Wellness: Monty Washington's HR Insights

In this episode of The Virtual Vibe Podcast, we have Monty Washington, the VP of Human Resources at M Science, a data-driven research and analytics firm. Monty shares insights on HR strategies for a successful remote workforce. From building a strong HR team to organizing engaging off-site events and wellness initiatives, Monty emphasizes the importance of knowing your audience, being open to new possibilities, and actively seeking feedback to improve the company's culture and wellness programs continuously. Tune in to hear Monty's valuable tips for HR leaders navigating the remote work landscape and striving for a happy, healthy, and connected workforce.

01-05
26:27

Shaping Remote Work Culture: Emily Brunelle's Blueprint at Bloomerang

Hey there, vibrant listeners! Tune into another electrifying session of The Virtual Vibe Podcast where we delve deep into the heart of remote work culture. I'm your host, David Howe, and today I was joined by the magnificent Emily Brunelle of Bloomerang.In just 30 seconds, let me whisk you through the revolutionizing ways Bloomerang is redefining employee wellness and engagement in a remote-first world. With 356 team players spread across North America, they're crafting a company culture that's as dynamic as it is supportive. Think virtual events, monthly social gatherings, and initiatives that prioritize emotional, physical, and mental well-being — all because at Bloomerang, it's not just about making an impact; it's about flourishing while you do it. Remember to stay connected, keep thriving, and until next time, keep vibing with us on The Virtual Vibe Podcast. Thanks for listening!

01-01
31:46

Positive Psychology at Work with Laurie Butson

Hello, go-getters! This is a powerhouse session with the fabulous Laurie Butson. She’s transformed her career to help businesses inject positive psychology into their culture, boosting happiness and performance. Remember, it's not just about fixing what's wrong; it’s about amplifying what's right and thriving in work and life. Laurie's wisdom on creating meaningful workplace well-being, through mindful strategies and practical resilience training, is pure gold for modern leaders. Just envision a workforce that’s not only content but flourishing. Stay driven, stay vibrant, and tune into our full episode for an exclusive deep dive with Laurie Butson on how to spark positive change in your workspace. 

12-14
35:24

Unpacking "Love + Work" with Doug Zeh: The Future of Happy Workplaces

Hello and welcome back to The Virtual Vibe Podcast, where we explore the harmony of passion, technology, and the future of work. I'm your host, David Howe; joining me in this episode is the remarkable Doug Zeh, an expert in cultivating workplace wellness and a former Chief People Officer of Quility Insurance. Today, we dive into a discussion inspired by Marcus Buckingham's insightful book "Love + Work," examining the profound connection between personal passions and professional engagement. Doug shares his transformative journey from behavioral health to pioneering wellness strategies in people operations and embracing positive psychology for a balanced work-life.We unpack the power of positive attention in the workplace; challenging conventional management styles by showing care is vastly more effective than criticism. Doug also urges us to consider the impact of our belief systems on job satisfaction and encourages embracing challenges to fuel personal growth and productivity.Join us for a candid conversation on finding love in your work, championing wellness initiatives, and the simple yet transformative practice of regular, meaningful dialogues. Together, we'll delve into the practical ways to align your strengths with your work, foster a supportive culture, and perhaps rediscover the joy in your profession.So, tune in to this soul-stirring episode of The Virtual Vibe Podcast with Doug Zeh. Whether you're a leader, a team player, or simply someone searching for that spark of fulfillment in your work life, this conversation promises valuable insights and actionable advice for all. Let's get started!

12-08
54:54

Nurturing Employee Wellness: Insights from the Senior HR Generalist at Bennington Financial

Welcome to The Virtual Vibe Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Michelle Anderson, Senior Human Resources Generalist and Team Lead at Bennington Financial. Michelle shared valuable insights into the tools and values that help support the culture of wellness at Bennington, a company that has ingrained a family-oriented culture since its founding in 1996. She also provided advice for HR professionals looking to build a culture of wellness for their teams. Additionally, our host, David Howe, shared the story of Bright Breaks evolution from a hair service company to a digital wellness program. Tune in to hear about the pivotal moments and innovative approaches that led to the success of both Bennington Financial and Bright Breaks.

12-01
23:05

The Power of Vulnerable Leadership: Isaac Lumley's Insights on Team Building

In our recent episode on The Virtual Vibe Podcast, we had insightful conversations with Isaac Lumley from Quility Insurance. Isaac shared how breaking down project management tasks, addressing employees' struggles, and creating a company culture of vulnerability all contribute to a healthier and more productive workplace. He also hinted at the necessity of consistent communication, especially while embracing a hybrid work model. Isaac's humanitarian approach towards treating employees outside of work and the concept of creating wellness ambassadors within the team are gems for every business. A treat to our ears, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons and leadership advice you'll want to take to heart.

11-24
32:23

Work for All: Creating a Remote-First Work Plan that Prioritizes Employee Well-being and Balance

Welcome back to another episode of The Virtual Vibe Podcast! In today's episode, we have a special guest, Molly Thompson, the Director of Employee Experience and Culture at VelocityEHS. Joining host David Howe, Molly shares insights into how VelocityEHS has embraced a remote-first approach to work and created a culture of wellness for their global team. From their "Work for All" program to initiatives like the "Jan Plan" and bi-monthly fitness challenges, Molly highlights the importance of employee well-being and its positive impact on talent attraction and retention. Tune in as Molly offers valuable advice for HR leaders looking to improve their own remote workforce culture of wellness. Let's dive in!

11-17
22:40

Elevating Employee Wellness in the Remote Work Era: An Interview with Amanda Payne

Welcome to episode three of The Virtual Vibe Podcast! In this episode, our host David Howe, sits down with Amanda Payne, the Employee Relations and HR Program Management Lead at The Commonwell. The Commonwell, a highly regarded insurance provider based in Canada, is known for its commitment to employee wellness and has been recognized as one of the best workplaces in the country. Amanda shares insights into the company's remote work environment, the importance of wellness in their culture, and the various initiatives they have implemented to support their employees' well-being. The Commonwell is dedicated to keeping its team engaged and healthy, from corporate wellness programs to flexible benefits and mental health support. Join us as we delve into the strategies for creating a happy and connected workforce in a work-from-home world. Let's get started!

11-09
25:58

Remote Work and Wellness: An Inside Look at PandaDoc's HR Strategies

Welcome to the second episode of the Virtual Vibe podcast! In this episode, our host David Howe is joined by Melanie Johnson, the Senior Manager, People Operations at PandaDoc. They dive into the world of HR strategies for a happy, healthy, and connected workforce in a work-from-home world. Melanie shares insights about PandaDoc, an all-in-one document automation software, and how their global team operates. They discuss the transition to becoming a remote-first company and the competitive advantage it brings in terms of talent recruitment and hiring. They also delve into the values at PandaDoc - learning, impact, fun, and empathy - and how they shape the company's culture and wellness initiatives. Mel emphasizes the significance of empathy in leadership and the value of providing learning opportunities, making an impact, and incorporating fun into the work environment. Listen in to learn more about how PandaDoc successfully fosters a culture of wellness for both office-based and remote employees!

11-02
23:57

Remote Wellness Strategies: Insights from Jared Perry, Chief of Staff at Bright Breaks

Welcome to the Virtual Vibe Podcast! In today's episode, we have a special guest, Jared Perry, the Chief of Staff at Bright Breaks. Jared joins our host, David Howe, to discuss how to implement and create a culture of wellness in a remote and hybrid working world. As the CEO and co-founder of Bright Breaks, David will be interviewing HR and People leaders at companies of all sizes to gather their advice, tactics, stories, and strategies on remote wellness. Jared, who plays a crucial role in leading the service operations team at Bright Breaks, shares insights into Bright Breaks' strong culture of wellness and the unique challenges they face as a hybrid and remote company. From inviting teammates to take breaks and incorporating wellness into meetings to building trust and creating initiatives to connect team members across different locations, Jared and David provide valuable insights and practical tips for fostering wellness in a remote work setting. Tune in to this enlightening conversation as we delve into the world of remote wellness with Jared Perry and David Howe!  (01:57) - Operating model: on-site and remote team promoting well-being. (05:54) - Trust, communication, and connection are essential values in the company. Remote teams face challenges in creating strong team connections. (09:11) - Encouraging connection through wellness (11:20) - Company culture fosters open communication and feedback. (13:54) - Trust and support in the workplace are crucial. (16:49) - Grateful for the first interview, excited to share!

10-24
17:31

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