HR Mixtape – Details, episodes & analysis

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

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

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

🌈 Pride Month is here, and we're talking about navigating diversity, inclusion, and religious accommodations in the workplace. In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast hosted by Shari Simpson, Desmond Lomax, a seasoned clinical mental health therapist and senior consultant at the Arbinger Institute, discusses the misconceptions and challenges surrounding DEI programming in organizations. The conversation delves into the importance of authentic engagement, leadership buy-in, and the impact of mindset on behavior in creating inclusive workplaces. Key Takeaways: 1. DEI efforts should be directly connected to performance, not just seen as a checkbox activity. 2. Leaders need to address their mindset and impact on others to create a psychologically safe environment. 3. Rebranding DEI initiatives as inclusion programs can help overcome political polarization and gain C-suite support. Don't miss this insightful episode for valuable insights on navigating DEI challenges in the workplace. Guest(s): Desmond Lomax, CMHC, CPM, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, The Arbinger Institute  

🤝 Discover the importance of creating a safe space for accommodation requests. In this episode of HR Mixtape hosted by Shari Simpson, Scott Crook, the managing partner at Crook Legal Group, discusses religious accommodations in the workplace. Scott highlights the legal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the importance of providing accommodations for employees with religious objections. He emphasizes the need for employers to navigate the complexities of religious accommodations to avoid legal consequences. Guest(s): Scott Crook, Managing Partner, Crook Legal Group

Discover how AI can enhance job descriptions, onboarding, employee well-being, and more in the HR space. In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with guest Jim Link, CHRO at SHRM to discuss the importance of AI in HR. They explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating artificial intelligence into human resources practices. The conversation highlights the need for HR professionals to increase their literacy in AI and utilize tools to enhance productivity and decision-making. Guest(s): Jim Link, CHRO, SHRM

💼 Are non-competes a thing of the past? In this episode of HR Mixtape with host Shari Simpson, experienced in-house counsel Amy Mulchay from Paylocity discusses the upcoming changes in non-compete laws. The episode delves into the potential impact of the new law, differences from previous legislation, and considerations for employers. Guest(s): Amy Mulchay, Director, Senior Employment and Litigation Counsel, Paylocity

From fake login sites to deep fakes, the world of cybersecurity is evolving.  In this episode of HR Mixtape hosted by Shari Simpson, Nate Peacher, a Risk Investigator at Paylocity, discusses typical phishing schemes and cybersecurity challenges facing businesses. Nate highlights the importance of employee education in identifying phishing emails and protecting against cyber attacks. The conversation delves into the evolving nature of phishing attempts, the use of AI in deep fakes, and the need for proactive cybersecurity measures. Guest(s): Nate Peacherm Risk Investigator, Paylocity

💼 Are you ready for the new earnings threshold for overtime exemption? In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast hosted by Shari Simpson, Corinne Tirone, Senior Director of Government Relations at Paylocity, discusses the final rule issued by the Department of Labor regarding changes to the earnings threshold for overtime exemption. The episode delves into the details of the rule, including updated salary levels and effective dates, as well as considerations for organizations in preparing for the changes. Key Takeaways: Updated Salary Levels: Learn about the new minimum salary levels for EAP exemptions and highly compensated employees. Effective Dates: Understand the timeline for the changes and how they will impact employees. Preparation Tips: Gain insights on how organizations can prepare for the rule changes, including conducting audits, evaluating employee classifications, and crafting effective communication strategies. Guest(s): Corinne Tirone, Senior Director of Government Relations at Paylocity   Webinar May 29th at 12pm central for 1 hour: SHRM and HRCI Eligible Register HERE  

Curious about the future of remote and hybrid roles in organizations? In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast hosted by Shari Simpson, Shannon Hardy from LinkedIn discusses the evolution of flexible work environments and the impact on company culture. Shannon shares insights on how her role at LinkedIn has transformed during the shift towards remote and hybrid work settings. She emphasizes the importance of nurturing company culture, addressing challenges, and supporting middle managers through change. Guest(s): Shannon Hardy, VP of Flex Work, LinkedIn