In this HR Sound Off podcast episode, we welcome Bill Brown, Principal and Chief People Officer at Think People.Culture. Bill shares his inspiring journey through HR, offering valuable advice for those aspiring to become a Chief People Officer. We dive into his book Don't Suck At Recruiting, and get a sneak peek into his upcoming release, Don't Suck at Culture. Bill emphasizes the importance of ethical consistency in HR and building early company wins. He also shares his favorite reads, including Redefining HR by Lars Schmidt and insights from the Harvard Business Review. This episode is packed with practical insights and resources for HR professionals aiming to excel in their careers. Don't miss out!

In this episode of HR Sound Off, I'm thrilled to welcome Kim Blue, Chief Executive Officer at K Blue Consulting. Kim takes us through her inspiring HR journey, from her corporate beginnings to becoming an entrepreneur and a leader in Fractional HR. She shares valuable insights on how to articulate boundaries for better work/life integration and the importance of evolving as a strategic partner in HR. Kim also gives us a peek into her favorite reads, including Atlas of the Heart, the Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review. Plus, she offers special shoutouts to Minda Harts and Dr. Meisha-ann Martin, two thought leaders who continue to inspire her. One of the highlights of our conversation is Kim's take on a common HR misconception—HR is often seen as the bottleneck in processes, but she’s excited about the evolution of the field. "pivot past the discord," Kim says, as she looks forward to the future of HR.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Organizational Ombuds with the remarkable Dina (Lynch) Eisenberg, Founder and President of Ombudsology LLC. Dina shares her extensive experience and insights, having dedicated three decades to the role of an Ombuds. Are you curious about stepping out of corporate HR? Dina offers invaluable advice on how to transition into this rewarding career path, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges it presents. Whether you're considering a career change or simply want to broaden your understanding of conflict resolution within organizations, this episode is a must-listen. Dina's book recommendation, In Sheep’s Clothing, by Dr. George K. Simon, also provides practical strategies for dealing with manipulative people at work—an essential read for anyone navigating complex workplace dynamics.

In this episode of HR Sound Off, I sit down with Kara Boyce, the Director of Human Capital for Guyana & Dutch Caribbean at Unicomer. Kara brings a wealth of experience and insights from her journey in the HR world, sharing her unique perspective on mentorship, change management, and the common misconceptions that often cloud the profession. Kara reflects on her transformative experiences of being mentored, highlighting the profound impact it has had on her career and personal growth. She delves into her passion for change management, emphasizing the importance of guiding organizations and employees through transitions with empathy and strategic planning. She candidly discusses the realities of working in HR and offers her thoughts on how the profession can better communicate its true value. Kara shares her current reading list, which includes "Ego Is the Enemy" by Ryan Holiday and "The Diary of a CEO" by Steven Bartlett. These books have influenced her leadership style and approach to personal development, and she explains why they are must-reads for anyone looking to grow in their career. Check out Kara's thought-provoking LinkedIn newsletter, "Letters of Apology Signed a Corporate Leader," where she addresses various leadership topics with honesty and insight.

This week, I am talking to Sally Loftis, a trailblazing consultant in human resources, organization development, and social justice. Sally shares her unique HR origin story and delves into the critical issue of pay equity and its profound impact on the workplace. She also reveals her current reading list and dispels a common HR misconception that you won't want to miss! Don't miss this enlightening episode. The HR Sound Off Podcast is brought to you by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

This week, we're thrilled to have Emma Djemil join us. Emma is the Founder of Be Unstoppable, a movement dedicated to transforming workplaces for everyone, one brave woman at a time. In our conversation, Emma emphasizes the importance of truly knowing yourself as a human being to discover who you are as an HR professional. She shares her captivating HR origin story, detailing her journey and the lessons learned along the way. Emma also introduces us to her initiatives, the HR Club and HR Big Meet event, which she hosts in the UK. These gatherings are designed to foster community and growth among HR professionals. As someone who has stepped outside corporate HR, Emma discusses her journey and the significance of self-care in maintaining her well-being as an Entrepreneur. Her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of HR while staying true to themselves. This episode is brought to you with the compliments of HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

When I share success stories from my coaching practice, I always tell the story of my guest's today. Melissa Lockhart and I met at a pivotal moment in her HR career. Our work together led her to leave a successful career in HR to start her very own nightwear brand, Melda Moda. Today, Melissa joins me to share her HR story and explain why she left corporate HR to pursue her passion. It was a pleasure speaking with Melissa to learn about the drivers that led her to make the choice she did and about her success so far. Melissa is a true success story of what life looks like on the other side of HR burnout. She has been featured in Essence, Brides, and Uptown, and her line is worn by everyday women as well as Real Housewives and Influencers. I am so proud of Melissa for doing the work internally to help her get to where she is today. I am honoured to have been a part of her story, and we hope her story will encourage you. Melissa also recommended checking out the book Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie by Bevy Smith. Check out Melda Moda https://meldamoda.com/  Follow Melissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissalockhart/. Her tagline is "People Ops & Pajamas." This episode is brought to you by HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.    

The brilliant Stephanie Lemek is joining me in the studio this week. Stephanie left In-house HR after spending 16 years working in various industries. Why? Like many of us who took the time to reflect on our HR careers during the pandemic, she realised corporate HR was not serving her gifts as an HR professional. Today, Stephanie runs her own HR consultancy and spends time on a pet project she likes to call The Wounded Workforce, where she helps HR professionals recognise employees experiencing trauma by first recognising their trauma. You do not want to miss this episode. HR professionals experience trauma in the workplace, and often they brush it aside to move on to the following work task; as time passes, that trauma builds until it explodes and shows up in your body and behaviour in ways that make you have to take a step back to address the trauma. Stephanie and I take some time to talk about our workplace traumas and why the work we both do matters at this time. Stephanie's resources: What Happened To You? - Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey The Deepest Well - Nadine Burke-Harris Go check out The Wounded Workforce to learn more about Stephanie's work. https://www.thewoundedworkforce.com/certifications This HR Sound Off Podcast Show episode is brought to you with the compliments of HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space. www.hratheart.com

This week's guest joins me from New Zealand as I talk to fellow HR for HR Coach - Lisa Young. Lisa joins me to share her HR origin story (coming into HR having started her career in TV). Lisa is very passionate about the work she is doing now to support HR professionals in building their competencies and skills. Check out her online community and follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn to keep up to date with her work. Lisa shares some podcasts she is listening to, including Bridget James Ling's The Business Coaching Podcast. We also talk about confidence anchors and Beyonce. The episode is sponsored by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

Join me in the sound booth this week as I sit down with the dynamic Bria McCray! Bria's journey from her first HR role to becoming the VP of People at RelationalAI and Founder of HRBP Consulting is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Bria shares her unique HR origin story and invaluable advice for anyone seeking an HR internship. Her passion for creating innovative and effective people ops strategies that support rapid growth without compromising company culture is truly captivating.  Discover the tools and techniques Bria used to thrive as an HR department of one and hear what currently excites her most about the HR world. Plus, you won't want to miss the HR misconception that's got her buzzing!  📚 Bria's book pick: The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Morgan and Michael Lennington.

In this episode, I sit down with Felicia Shakiba, the founder and host of CPO Playbook. Felicia shares her HR origin story, and then we get into organizational design in HR. Felicia emphasizes the importance of effective people management in supporting business growth and suggests that HR teams should adopt a Center of Excellence (COE) model and implement agile practices. Felicia also shares her decision to leave corporate and start her venture, highlighting the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the HR space.  We also touch on the value of external perspectives in HR and the need for more women and HR leaders on boards. We debunk the misconception that HR is unnecessary in the boardroom, emphasizing our strategic importance. Felicia's resources: Balancing Acts: Unleashing the Power of Creativity in Your Life & Work by Daniel Lamarre

My guest this week is the brilliantly talented Cavelle Joseph-St. Omer. Cavelle is the Divisional Manager of Human Resources at UDeCOTT in Trinidad and Tobago. She is devoted to creating great workplace experiences and is focused on her HR career's legacy story. As such, she serves as the President of the Human Resources Management Association of Trinidad & Tobago (a.k.a. HRMATT) and the Caribbean Institute of Human Resource Management. She sits on many other boards dedicated to improving productivity and engagement in the workplace.  In this episode, Cavelle tells us how she does everything and what is coming next for her. She is just getting started, and I am excited to see what she is planning. Cavelle shares her HR origin story and the HR misconception that bothers her.   Cavelle's top read: Atomic Habits by James Clear This episode is sponsored by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

This week, I am magnifying the voice of Nicholas Roberts. Nicholas is the Regional Manager, Human Resources (Barbados & The Eastern Caribbean) at Coralisle Group Ltd. and the President of the Human Resource Management Association of Barbados (HRMAB). In this episode, Nicholas shares his HR origin story. I was today years old when I learned that Nicholas has a culinary background. Nicholas also shares some of the amazing things happening at HRMAB, including their upcoming conference in October and why he believes HR professionals need to utilize LinkedIn more. My favourite quote from this episode is, "You cannot eat HR."

What is Fractional HR? Is it the same thing as consulting, or is it something more? The brilliantly talented Anessa Fike is here to answer these questions this week. Anessa has been working in fractional HR roles for over a decade, and in this episode, she shares her HR origin story and her Fractional HR journey. Anessa started her career in journalism and shares some of the similarities between journalism and HR. Anessa is also the Author of the book: The Revolution of Work: F*ck the Patriarchy and the Workplace It Built, and she shares the why behind writing this book. We also talk about the importance of being business savvy in HR and much more. Enjoy the conversation.

On this week's episode of HR Sound Off, I interview the amazing Cassidy Edwards, the Director of People Operations at Tradeblock. Cassidy shares her HR origin story and offers valuable insights into her journey and experiences in the field. In our conversation, Cassidy discusses the importance of radical rest and shares tips on how to deal with a toxic boss. She emphasizes the need for HR professionals to prioritize self-care and not carry trauma from one organization into another. We talk a bit about sneaker culture and some of our favorite kicks. Check out our fangirl moment on two of our favorite people, Hebba Youssef and Anessa Fike. My favorite quote from Cassidy is, "HR professionals are not passive participants in business strategy; we are active engineers of it."   Cassidy's Picks HR Community - The Safe Space by Hebba Youssef - https://workweek.com/i-hate-it-here/community/safe-space/ Books Born to Create by Anne Jacoby The Revolution of Work: F the Patriarchy and the Workplace It Built by Anessa Fike Podcast I Hate It Here by Hebba Youssef Total Meditation by Lil Jon   The HR Sound Off Podcast Show is Powered by HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

I had the pleasure of meeting Candice Walker while she was interviewed on the Redirection Podcast by Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid. Her story and insights were so compelling that I knew immediately she had to be a guest on my show. Candice is an HR professional and an Attorney at Law, bringing a unique perspective to her work at Toyota Jamaica. In this episode, Candice shares her inspiring journey in HR and highlights the impactful initiatives she's spearheading at Toyota Jamaica. We also delve into her self-care practices, the books currently influencing her, and what keeps her passionate about the field of HR. This episode is a bit longer because Candice and I took a moment to celebrate our mutual admiration for our dear friend, Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid, and the incredible work she continues to do. Candice is reading: My Brand Compass by Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid A Pirate of Exquisite Mind: The Life of William Dampier: Explorer, Naturalist, and Buccaneer by Diana and Michael Preston This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. -The HR Safe Space.

Do you believe that happiness at work truly matters? Many organizations are now recognizing the importance of well-being and engagement, but what about ensuring that your employees are genuinely happy? If you're an HR professional, I want you to treat this episode as your annual retreat, a moment to pause and reflect on the essence of creating a happy workplace. Joining me this week is Sriram, an HR Professional and workplace happiness expert who focuses on making workplaces happier and more human-centric.  In this episode, Sriram emphasizes the need for organizations to shift their focus to the feelings of employees by adopting Human First metrics and strategies. This involves demonstrating core human virtues such as gratitude, appreciation, and compassion. Sriram offers a Human Centricity Audit to help identify areas for investment and implement behaviour change within organizations. We also delve into why happiness at work matters and how it impacts output, productivity, and profitability. Sriram makes a compelling case for organizations to prioritize emotions and feelings in the workplace as a strategic imperative.    Sriram's resources: Happiness Habits Solve for Happy by Mo Gawdat      

In this episode of HR Sound Off Live, I am amplifying the voice of the brilliant Samara Jaffe, the Co-Founder and GM of Transform, one of the most well-attended conferences in the world. Transform is the people-driven thought leadership ecosystem driving the conversations and innovations shaping the new world of work. Samara shares some details about the conference and the story of how it was created. I am honored to be one of the speakers at this conference and look forward to this deep-dive conversation with Samara. Transform is happening from March 11 - 13 in Las Vegas. 

This week, I'm amplifying the voice of the remarkable Anthony Howard. Anthony serves as the Founder & CEO of HR Certified and has over two decades of HR expertise across diverse industries. What began as a side venture evolved into his primary focus following profound introspection prompted by a traumatic event that led to a period of depression. Emerging from this ordeal, Anthony birthed HR Certified, dedicating himself to supporting underrepresented HR professionals through SHRM certification while also offering coaching and fostering community. In this episode, we delve into HR Certified and Anthony's experiences as the sole black male in HR within an organization. Reflecting on his extensive career in HR, spanning over two decades, Anthony reveals encountering only one instance where a black manager supervised him. Additionally, Anthony discusses his enthusiasm for the current state of HR and much more. It was an enriching conversation. One of my favourite quotes from Anthony is, "Everyone needs to get uncomfortable to grow." Anthony recommends the following resources: "I'm Not Yelling: A Black Woman’s Guide to Navigating the Workplace" by Elizabeth Leiba "Great Place to Work For All: Better for Business, Better for People, Better for the World" by Michael Bush Explore HR Certified at www.gethrcertified.com. Fun fact: In 2023, HR Certified earned recognition as a 🌟 Toplist Company 🌟 in the 2023 U.S. BASA Awards! This episode was sponsored by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Ivori Johnson, the Head of People & Inclusion at ChartHop. Join us as we delve into Ivori's unique journey from studying medicine to becoming a trailblazer in Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Discover how Ivori's life took an unexpected turn when someone entered her world and redirected her path from medicine to HR and DEI. Despite facing discrimination in her pursuit of HR roles due to presenting herself as masculine and Queer, Ivori defied the odds and ascended to senior positions in DEI at tech giants Google and Twitter. In this candid conversation, we explore the challenges Ivori encountered, the resilience that propelled her forward, and the significant milestones in her career. Uncover the parallels between Ivori's journey and unexpected connections with pop culture as we delve into what she and John Wick surprisingly have in common. Join us as we tackle the important topic of breaking down barriers in the workplace, fostering inclusivity, and creating a positive impact in the world of HR and DEI. Ivori Johnson's story is not just one of career transition but also a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful change. Ivori's Resources: I Hate It Here Newsletter by Hebba Youseff Race Ahead Newsletter This podcast is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space  

This week, I am magnifying the voice of the remarkable Cassandra Rose. Join us as Cassandra takes us on a journey through her extensive career in Human Resources, shedding light on the unique challenges and triumphs of working in HR. Cassandra, a seasoned Global HR Executive, brings a wealth of experience to the table. In this episode, she generously shares insights into her HR journey and the intricacies of steering the HR ship in the ever-evolving startup landscape. Discover the passion that fuels her mission to support employees as they navigate their own professional journeys within an organization. Having worn the hats of leadership at both multibillion-dollar global brands and unicorn startups, Cassandra has honed proven strategies. These strategies positively impact employees' physical, mental, and financial well-being. Get ready for a deep dive into the real-world examples and leading industry practices she brings. Cassandra doesn't just stop at the boardroom; she actively engages with the HR community. Through consultation, coaching, and facilitating workshops, she empowers HR and People Leaders to connect the value of talent with the mission of their organizations. What is Cassandra reading: Silo by Hugh Howey The Rational Optimist by Matt Ridley   This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

Join us for a fascinating conversation with the incredibly talented Leah De Souza, a renowned expert in Talent Development and Workplace Performance Improvement. We delve into a wide range of topics that are sure to inspire and inform: 🚀 AI in Talent Development: Leah shares why she believes that AI cannot replace what she does. 👩‍👧‍👦 Lessons from Mom: Leah reflects on a valuable lesson she learned from her mother about entrepreneurship, offering a heartwarming and personal perspective on what it takes to succeed in the business world. 💼 Transitioning from HR to Talent Development: If you're looking to make a career shift from core HR to Talent Development, Leah provides valuable tips and guidance to help you navigate this transition successfully. 🎬 Sci-Fi and Horror Enthusiast: Uncover a surprising side of Leah as she talks about her passion for sci-fi and horror movies and how her love for these genres influences her approach to Talent Development. 📚 The Laws of Human Nature: Leah is currently engrossed in reading "The Laws of Human Nature," and she shares the insights and inspiration she's gained from this compelling book. 💡 Favorite Quote: "You learn in and by doing."  With her extensive experience working with international business and human resource leaders across various industries, Leah's wisdom and expertise shine through as she discusses her work and its impact on improving productivity, profitability, and positivity within organizations. Join us for an episode filled with valuable insights, personal stories, and a dash of fun as we explore the dynamic world of Talent Development with Leah De Souza.    This episode is Powered by HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

In this week's episode, I sit down with the remarkable Melanie Naranjo, the VP of People at Ethena and the brilliant mind behind the popular newsletter "How to People."  In this episode, Melanie peels back the curtain on her incredible HR journey, revealing her HR origin story and how she climbed the ladder to become a true leader in the field. Her insights are not just informative but incredibly inspiring. We delve deep into the power of LinkedIn and how Melanie harnesses its potential for personal and professional growth. If you want to level up your networking game, this episode is a treasure trove of expert tips. But what truly makes this episode special is Melanie's infectious passion for Human Resources. She shares what has her buzzing with excitement about being in HR in today's dynamic workplace. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and it's hard not to feel invigorated after hearing her perspective. If you're an avid reader, you'll love Melanie's book recommendation – "The Advantage" by Patrick Lencioni. She explains how this gem has been a game-changer for her in the world of HR and why it's a must-read for anyone in the field. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Melanie also demystifies HR, offering candid insights into the challenges and hard truths that often go unnoticed. She doesn't hold back, and her candour is both refreshing and eye-opening. And here's a little teaser for you – my favourite quote from this episode: "I think HR is one of the mouse underserved, under-resourced and under-trained functions, period." 💡 Melanie dissects this statement, shedding light on the untapped potential within HR and why it's high time organizations recognize its true value.

Today, we have a truly remarkable guest with us. Laurie Louard is the HR Manager at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and the Immediate Past President of HRPAB. Laurie joins us to share his incredible journey of wearing many hats, from being a father and husband to an HR professional, mentor, coach, and facilitator. How does he manage it all? We're about to find out. Episode Highlights: The Multifaceted Laurie Louard In this segment, we delve into the diverse roles Laurie Louard plays in his life. From his responsibilities as an HR Manager to being a family man, mentor, coach, and facilitator, we explore how he successfully manages these different aspects of his life. Laurie's insights into work-life balance, time management, and personal growth are sure to inspire. What Keeps Laurie Excited About HR? In this segment, Laurie shares his passion for the field of HR and what keeps him excited about it. We discuss the evolving landscape of HR, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities it presents. Laurie's perspective on the future of HR is a must-listen for HR professionals and enthusiasts alike. Laurie's Current Obsession: Rewatching 'Suits' Ever wondered what HR professionals binge-watch when they're not working? Laurie confesses his current obsession with the TV series 'Suits.'  Fanboying/Fangirling Over Ambassador Joan Underwood Laurie and I share our admiration for Ambassador Joan Underwood. He shares what makes her a remarkable figure in the world of HR and leadership and how her work aligns with his values and aspirations. Laurie's enthusiasm for Ambassador Underwood is infectious, and you won't want to miss this part of the episode. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends and colleagues. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations with HR professionals who are making a difference in the world. Until next time, keep thriving in your HR journey! This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

I am thrilled to welcome Sheba Wilson to the show. Sheba has not only excelled in HR but has also made her mark as an accomplished author, speaker, and resilient figure in her personal life. Today, Sheba opens up about her unique HR journey and the motivation behind her insightful book, "Get Up and Lead." Exploring HR Leadership: We kick off the episode by examining the qualities that make Sheba an exceptional HR leader. Sheba emphasizes the importance of leading with empathy, a trait she's known for. She firmly believes that successful HR leadership is rooted in genuine care for people.  The Heart Behind "Get Up and Lead": Sheba shares the personal experiences and revelations that inspired her to write "Get Up and Lead."  Building Happy and Healthy HR Teams: In our conversation, we discuss what it takes to lead an HR team that's not just efficient but also happy and healthy. Sheba's insights into creating a positive work environment and fostering trust among team members are enlightening. Trust: The Foundation of HR Success: One key aspect that we dive deep into is trust. Sheba passionately articulates why trust is the cornerstone of any thriving HR team. We explore how trust impacts relationships within organizations and how HR professionals can cultivate it. Getting Personal: This episode isn't just about HR leadership; it's about Sheba's journey and the challenges she's overcome as a mother and widow. Her resilience and determination are truly inspiring, and her story will resonate with anyone facing adversity. Favourite Quote: Throughout our conversation, one quote stood out as the essence of Sheba's leadership philosophy: "If you don't genuinely care about people, you can't lead them."  This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

This week, I have a truly inspiring guest joining us, Amad Thompson. Amad is a seasoned HR professional with a wealth of experience in Talent Development. He currently serves as the Talent Development Manager at Sysco Bahamas Food Services and wears the hat of CEO at Astute Talent Management. In this episode, Amad takes us on a captivating journey through the world of Talent Management, sharing insights, experiences, and invaluable wisdom. Together, we delve into the heart of Talent Management, exploring how it plays a pivotal role in shaping organizations and nurturing their most valuable asset – their people. Amad's journey into Talent Management, also known as Learning and Development (L&D), is inspiring and instructive. He shares his personal story, highlighting the passion and dedication that led him to this dynamic field. Amad's journey reminds us that sometimes, our career paths are not linear, and embracing change can lead to extraordinary opportunities. One of the central topics we explore in this episode is why Talent Management often faces unique challenges when it operates within HR departments of one. As HR professionals know, managing the entire HR spectrum single-handedly can be a daunting task. Amad sheds light on how to navigate these challenges and unlock the true potential of Talent Management, even in smaller HR teams. Throughout our conversation, Amad shares practical strategies and actionable advice on how aspiring HR professionals can step into a Talent Management role. From developing a deep understanding of your organization's needs to honing critical skills in talent development and employee engagement, Amad provides a roadmap for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in this field. A standout moment from this episode is when Amad shares this thought-provoking quote: "Learn the difference between accessibility and availability." In a world where HR professionals are constantly pulled in different directions, this quote reminds us of the importance of balancing our own well-being with our professional responsibilities. Remember, the HR Sound Off Show is created by an HR professional for HR professionals. Our mission is to amplify HR voices and empower the HR community. Amad's Resources 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication - John Maxwell As We Grow Together - Wellington Hepburn This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc.

In this week's episode, I have the pleasure of magnifying the voice of the amazingly talented Hebba Youssef, the Chief People Officer at WorkWeek and the brilliant mind behind the thought-provoking newsletter "I Hate It Here." Episode Highlights: Hebba takes us on a captivating journey through her experiences in HR and much more. Here are some of the highlights from our conversation: 1. HR Journey Unveiled: Hebba opens up about her fascinating journey into HR, sharing valuable insights gained from years of experience. From her early career to becoming the Chief People Officer at WorkWeek, Hebba's journey is filled with wisdom and inspiration. 2. Navigating the Writer's Strike: We delve into an intriguing discussion about the impact of the writers' strike in the US and how HR professionals like Hebba have had to adapt and evolve in the face of such challenges. Her perspective on managing workplace dynamics during turbulent times is truly enlightening. 3. HR in the Startup World: Hebba shares her unique perspective on the dynamics of HR within the fast-paced world of startups. She provides valuable tips and strategies for HR professionals navigating the unique challenges and opportunities presented by startup environments. 4. The Power of Positive Self-Talk: We explore the importance of positive self-talk in the workplace and in life. Hebba shares practical advice on fostering a positive mindset and how this can contribute to personal and professional growth. 5. "I Hate It Here" Newsletter: We also dive into Hebba's popular newsletter, "I Hate It Here," which resonates with many HR professionals. Discover the inspiration behind this unique newsletter and how it serves as a platform for open discussions about workplace experiences. To stay connected with Hebba, you can find her on LinkedIn. This episode is brought to you by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. The HR Safe Space

Disclaimer - I thought about splitting this conversation up into two parts, but I couldn't do it. So buckle up and enjoy the ride. Why does HR often feel the need to do it all? In this week's episode of The HR Sound Off Podcast Show, we dive headfirst into the turbulent waters of Hustle Culture within Human Resources. Join us for an insightful conversation as I sit down with Teresa Vozza, a former HR professional turned Executive Coach.  Burnout Stories: Teresa and I discuss our own experiences with burnout in the HR field, sharing candid moments of vulnerability that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of their job. Finding Your Zone of Genius: Discover practical tips for identifying your strengths and operating from your "zone of genius." Learn how this can help you not only survive but thrive in the HR world. The Empowered No: When is the right time to say no? Teresa and I explore the art of setting boundaries and assertively saying no when necessary, empowering HR professionals to prioritize their well-being. Tune in to this episode and unlock valuable insights to transform your HR journey. It's time to demystify the misconceptions, break free from the hustle, and rediscover the heart of Human Resources.  Let's redefine HR together! Teresa's resources: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman Think Fast Talk Smart Podcast by Matt Abrahams This episode is powered by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

In this week's episode, I am thrilled to welcome Ellyssa Smith, a true Maverick and the remarkable C.E.L.E.B: Curator Engagement Lightkeeper for Exquisite Beings Coach. Together, we delve deep into the core of HR, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion on embracing a holistic approach to human resources. Ellyssa takes us on a compelling journey through her HR career and shares how entering the profession intertwined beautifully with her Trinidadian heritage. Amidst our insightful conversation, Ellyssa unveils a prevailing misconception about HR, vowing to set the record straight. Tune in for an enriching exchange that showcases the fusion of HR expertise and cultural heritage. Resources: The 15 commitments of conscious leadership The Bro Code Podcast This episode is sponsored by HRatHeart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space  

In this episode, I am thrilled to welcome a remarkable guest who found her passion for Human Resources through a unique and inspiring journey. Join us as I sit down with Cindy Maurer, a dedicated HR professional who traces her path back to her father's illustrious career in employee relations. While employee relations may not always be perceived as the most glamorous aspect of HR, Cindy sheds light on its undeniable significance and the unsung heroes who undertake this vital work. A true advocate for the field, Cindy believes that those who tackle employee relations challenges deserve our utmost applause. During our conversation, Cindy shares her personal experiences and reveals what she loves most about the dynamic world of HR. Cindy shares valuable insights and strategies that have contributed to her success in this ever-evolving domain. Listen out as we also extend a special shout-out to Workday, a leading HR software company, and the inspirational Mel Robbins podcast show. These exceptional resources have played a pivotal role in shaping Cindy's HR journey, and we can't wait for you to explore their impact as well. So, whether you are an HR enthusiast, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about employee relations, this episode is not to be missed!    This episode is sponsored by HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space.

This week, I have the pleasure of hosting the incredible Tiersa Hall, a true HR & Culture Consulting powerhouse. Tiersa is truly authentic and brilliant – a dynamic combo, indeed! Tiersa wears many hats, and she wears them oh-so-stylishly! As a Master Trainer, Forbes Expert Contributor, and Amazon Best Selling Author of the captivating book "Culture Impact," public speaker, Leadership & Engagement Coach, and Autism Advocate, she's a force to be reckoned with. But wait, there's more – she's also one of the most beautiful souls we've ever had the pleasure of hosting on our show. Get ready to be blown away by her wisdom and charisma! We dive into some eye-opening topics that'll challenge your perspective on success. Tiersa shares her secrets on embracing failure like a boss – because, let's face it, folks, failure happens to the best of us. And why, oh why, do some HR professionals hesitate to ask for help? Tiersa unpacks this intriguing question and reveals the keys to unlocking your full potential in the HR world. If you've been looking for that spark to supercharge your career, look no further. Tiersa drops some knowledge bombs on growing your HR career that you simply can't afford to miss. Ever wondered how singing karaoke could be an essential part of self-care? Tiersa spills the beans on this surprising yet delightful self-care secret that'll have you humming your way to a more balanced life. And guess what? There's an exciting bonus – Tiersa's new book "Culture Impact" is a must-read! Dive into the pages of wisdom she's packed in there, and you'll be well on your way to positively impacting your workplace and beyond. I couldn't resist sharing my favourite quote from this episode, and it's a gem: "Be comfortable where you are." Tiersa drops this nugget of wisdom that'll have you embracing your journey and savouring every moment. Don't miss out – tune in and prepare to be wowed by the one and only Tiersa Hall! This episode is sponsored by: HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

Join me this week as I sit down with Shaara Roman for an insightful conversation. Shaara is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, former CHRO, and board member who excels in aligning people and culture with business strategy. With diverse industry experience, she helps organizations strengthen their trajectory by creating purpose-led cultures and advising on talent, leadership, and workplace well-being. She's a sought-after speaker, author, and recognized HR leader known for her strategic insights and transformative impact. Shaara shares her remarkable journey in the field of HR, discussing her experiences in both corporate HR and running her own business. We delve into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, uncovering Shaara's personal likes and dislikes along the way. Tune in to gain valuable insights from her wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives. Shaara's Watchlist: Ted Lasso Succession The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel   This episode is powered by: HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space  

In this episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming Stephanie Murdock, who has amassed over 24 years of experience in HR, primarily in the public sector of the Jamaican government. Stephanie shares her insightful journey, highlighting the lessons she learned while transitioning into private-sector HR. We delve into fascinating topics such as leading next-gen HR, tackling imposter syndrome, and the danger of losing one's identity in the HR field. Stephanie's resources: 📚 Beyond Performance 2.0 A Proven Approach to Leading Large Scale Change by Scott Keller & Bill Schaninger 📚 The Five Levels of Leadership by John Maxwell Don't miss out on this thought-provoking and informative episode! Powered by HR@Heart consulting Inc.

Have you ever questioned your HR career, feeling like you've lost your way? Don't worry; you're not alone. In this week's episode, I have a special guest, Colin Mincy, who opens up about his journey of realigning his HR career through the power of self-reflection. Join us as Colin shares his captivating HR odyssey, offering a refreshing perspective and some eye-opening truth bombs about the often-neglected aspect of self-care within the HR profession. Get ready to be inspired and motivated as we delve into the transformative effects of prioritizing your well-being while navigating the intricate world of HR. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and reignite your HR career alongside Colin Mincy. It's time to rediscover your purpose and embrace the transformative power of self-care. Enjoy!"

Step into the world of transformative HR leadership as we welcome Alexandre (Alex) Seiler to the sound booth. Alex, a global-minded executive and a strong advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), joins us to share his HR journey and what fuels his passion for the field in the current landscape. Get ready to glean valuable tips and tricks from Alex as he discusses creating a nurturing environment that fosters growth within your HR team. Discover his perspectives on the significance of workplace well-being and why it should be a top priority for organizations worldwide. Throughout the episode, Alex generously shares his go-to resources, including "The Anxious Achiever" by Morra Aarons-Mele, the enlightening insights from Josh Bersin and Adam Grant, and the eye-opening blog "I Hate It Here" by Hebba Youssef. Join us for a riveting conversation with Alexandre Seiler, where you'll gain profound insights into unleashing the untapped potential of HR and nurturing a thriving workplace. Sponsored by: HR@Heart Consulting Inc. The HR Safe Space  

I am thrilled to have Anitra St. Hilaire as my guest today. Anitra is an accomplished and values-based executive with over fifteen years of experience in human resources, talent, and operations. She has worked with start-up, for-profit, and non-profit organizations in the financial services, education, and digital media industries. In today's episode, Anitra shares her HR story and talks about the importance of developing business acumen for HR professionals. She provides valuable insights on how to present yourself to an organization and how to share your personal values to be successful in the company. I enjoyed talking with Anitra, and I know you will too. So, make sure to check out this episode and learn from her vast experience in HR leadership. And as always, if you enjoy this podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends and colleagues. Thanks for tuning in, and let's get started!   Anitra's Resources: The Speed of Trust - Stephen Covey CGP Grey on YouTube Episode Sponsor: HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

The incredible Beth Elletson, a 3x Startup Founder and former MLB HR Executive, is joining us this week. With over 13 years of experience in leadership, talent management, sales, recruiting, training, career coaching, and HR, Beth has achieved top-ranking performance in corporate and startup environments. In this episode, we hear Beth's journey of navigating her HR career while growing her family and her experience of working for the Major League Baseball team, the Miami Marlins. But that's not all; we also hear her insights on the biggest misconception about HR that bothers her. Beth now runs her career development firm, ABE, and we want you to tap into this resource, so check out Abe.work to learn more.   Sponsored by: HRatHeart Consulting Inc.

On this week's episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Anita Grantham, the Head of HR at BambooHR. Anita is a culture champion who is dedicated to creating teams that inspire individuals to do their best work. During our conversation, Anita shares her journey of how she got into HR and the importance of prioritizing self-care. She also gives us a peek into what life is like at BambooHR and the steps they take to create an intentional people culture using their people data. Additionally, Anita shares how my content on Instagram and LinkedIn has helped her in her HR journey. If you're looking to learn more about building a positive work culture and finding ways to take care of yourself while managing HR responsibilities, then this episode is for you. Join us for an insightful discussion with Anita Grantham on the HR Sound Off Podcast. Anita also shares why she hates when people say that HR people are not fun.   Anita's Resources: 🎙️ The Tim Farris Show - Podcast 🎙️ FranklinCovey on Leadership with Scott Miller - Podcast 📺 Ted Lasso    Sponsored by: HR@Heart Consulting Inc.  

In this week's HR Sound Off Podcast Show episode, we're thrilled to have Paula Walcott as our special guest. Paula is the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Sagicor in Barbados, and she has a wealth of experience and expertise in various aspects of strategic and functional HR. Paula is a business-focused HR Professional who has successfully managed change during mergers and acquisitions while keeping the organization focused on the desired outcomes. She has also developed strong skills in organizational culture-building and has repeatedly demonstrated that a focus on employee engagement, especially in a post-merger business, positively impacts all stakeholders, including corporate shareholders. During our conversation, Paula will share her HR journey, her experience with internships in HR, and what she believes makes a great HR professional. We'll also discuss why knowing the business matters and much more. So, whether you're an HR professional or simply interested in learning more about the HR industry, you won't want to miss this episode. Sit back, relax, and enjoy as we dive into the world of HR with Paula Walcott.   Paula's Resources: No Ego - Cy Wakeman Disruption Proof - Brant Cooper   Sponsors: HR@Heart Consulting Inc.

Welcome to another episode of the HR Sound Off Podcast Show. I'm excited to have Rachel Martinez with me today. Rachel is a seasoned bilingual Human Resources Professional with a legal background who believes that HR is more than just enforcing disciplinary procedures and handbooks. As a true curator of cultures, Rachel has partnered with leadership to establish and continuously improve awesome cultures and employee experiences in large companies and start-ups. Rachel has proven to be a key player in the leadership teams she has been a part of, resulting in a substantial impact on the organization and its employees. During this episode, Rachel shares her experience on how her legal background has helped her in her HR career, the importance of developing a coaching mindset and balancing your HR career. She also shares who she is listening to in Twitter spaces. Rachel has achieved many accomplishments throughout her career, including restructuring disciplinary procedures, implementing an efficient employee engagement strategy to maintain a low turnover ratio, and aligning departmental strategies with organizational goals, resulting in a high retention rate for new hires. Rachel is passionate about results-driven and dynamic environments where employee success, achievement, collaboration, and compliance are highly valued. In addition, she loves writing HR-related articles on her blog and LinkedIn page @ HR Power by Rachel. So, please sit back and relax as Rachel shares her knowledge and experience on this week's HR Sound Off Podcast Show episode.   Sponsor: HR@Heart Consulting Inc.  

Join us on this week's episode as I sit down with Anthony Louis, a seasoned recruiter who's helped growth-stage companies hire, retain, and scale their organizations. With over 1,000 open roles filled, Anthony has partnered with CEOs and executive teams across various functions and industries. In addition, he'll share his talent strategy, headcount planning, and organizational development expertise.  In this episode, you'll also glimpse Anthony's life as an avid journaler, amateur marathonist, and corporate TV drama junkie. In addition, he'll share his current watchlist, including Succession and The Morning Show, and his bookshelf filled with must-read titles like "Principles" by Ray Dalio and "Imposter Syndrome" by Kathy Wang. Don't miss out on this exciting episode, where Anthony will share his wealth of knowledge and help you navigate the world of talent engagement. Get in touch with Anthony for a consultation at [email protected]. Sponsored by: HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - The HR Safe Space

Daniel Space, or you may know him as Dan from HR on TikTok, is a Senior HR Business Partner who describes himself as passionate and experimental in the HR field and discipline. In 2021 Daniel began creating HR Content on TikTok - focused on debunking destructive job search myths, writing optimal resumes, optimizing Linkedin and how Compensation works. As a fan of his content, I asked him to join me on the show, and he said yes! In this episode, we talk about the following: Creating HR content on social media How to grow your HR career The importance of mentors Is HR your friend?   Daniel's movie pics: Sinister Seven Follow Daniel on LinkedIn & TikTok   Sponsors: Process Street HR@Heart Consulting Inc.

I found Alisha Parchment on Instagram, and I was instantly hooked on her content and personality. Alisha is a People Career and Performance Management Partner at Dassault Systemes. Her aim and purpose for this role is to provide clarity and guidance to employees and managers by coaching and advising on career development topics. Alisha wants individuals who work with her to realise their potential and the opportunities available on their respective journeys. Alisha also helps HR students, graduates and professionals gain clarity and confidence in CV writing and interview techniques to land entry-level HR roles. Through her YouTube channel, HR Talks with Lish, Alisha is on a mission to motivate, inspire and elevate.  In this episode, we talk about the following: Alisha's HR career journey Encouraging your people to get into HR HR on social media Alisha's self-care regime Alisha's booklist: The Gifts of imperfection and Dare to Lead by Brene Brown   Special shout out to Adese Okojie & Black Women In HR   Check Alisha on social media: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@hrtalkswithlish Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hrtalkswithlish/ Alisha's Website - https://www.alishaparchment.com/ Connect LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alishaparchment98/   Sponsors: Process Street - https://www.process.st/ HR@Heart - https://hratheart.co/  

When it comes to attrition and retention, do you have all the answers? The truth is none of us has the solutions to every HR challenge that comes our way, which is why we need community.   Lizabeth Wesley-Casella joins me this week to share some practical tips and tricks to help you with retention and attrition. Lizabeth is the Founder & CEO of L-12 Services, which helps CEOs, owners, and operations professionals ensure their teams are poised for success, functioning at high capacity, and experiencing unparalleled job satisfaction.   Lizabeth's Resources: Testing Business Ideas by David Bland - https://amzn.to/3Hq7RTG Take the attrition prevention quiz - https://l12services.com/quiz/   Sponsors: Process Street - https://www.process.st/ HR@Heart Consulting Inc. - https://hratheart.co/

Amy Lavoie joins me for this week's episode, and she is breaking down why she loves focusing on people success. As an HR professional, I truly believe it is essential to do the things that make your heart sing because our profession can be very lonely and thankless. Amy shares her HR story and why she agrees with me when it comes to changing the title of the HR profession to people experience/success. Amy has spent her career studying, practicing, building, and evangelizing the science of happiness at work. She is on a mission to help organizations, leaders, and teams create cultures where people can bring their best selves to work and do their best work. Because happier employees = better humans and a better world. And oh yeah, it's great for business! Amy's Pic's Good Inside Podcast by Dr. Becky The Dip by Seth Godin Connect with Amy on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and HR journey. This episode is brought to you with compliments of Process St.

Welcome to the HR Sound Off Podcast show created by an HR professional for HR professionals. This week I sat down with Tracy Avin. Tracy is an experienced Human Resources professional and a leader in building online communities around the needs of HR people. She has built a thriving community called TroopHR to make sure that HR people get access to the resources they need to do their jobs better. Tracy has spent the last 20+ years as an entrepreneur working at the intersection of HR, healthcare, and startups. In 2013, she started the Post'd People Group, a network for senior HR leaders. This would be the start of her passion project, pushing forward and doing more by building out the network, curating content, and organizing HR events to contribute to the advancement of the people leader profession. Tracy considers herself a bit of a warrior, never giving up and constantly pushing forward, using her determination to build out the HR network to become the platform it is today, TroopHR. Tracy's favourite podcasts: Brown Table Talk by Dee C. Marshall and Mita Mallick HBR Women at work Connect with Tracy on LinkedIn and check out Troop HR This episode was brought to you compliments of Process Street.

How can you be a successful HR professional in the startup world? How do you get your leadership out of the startup mindset when you have grown beyond a startup? Jennifer Armstrong-Owen describes herself as a strategic and operationally focused Talent and People Executive with significant experience building and leading in global environments. Passionately focused on people development and driving cultural change that elevates team members while achieving business goals and priorities. She has extensive experience with organizational design, change management, total rewards strategies, leadership development, employee engagement strategies, M&A transactions and integrations, private and public boards, and compensation committee partnerships. Jennifer joins me this week to share her HR story and some golden nuggets on how she has held a successful HR career in the tech startup space spanning over two decades. Jennifer's resources: 📚 Dan Pink - Drive 📚 Susan David - Emotional Agility This episode is once again brought to you compliments of Process St.  

Jane Ferré is the Executive Career Coach at Jane Ferré Coaching, a private outplacement firm for HR Directors to offer to their senior leaders whose roles are now redundant. Offering this external 1:1 support enables them to exit their people from the business with speed, dignity and grace so that everyone can move on with their heads held high. Jane joins me to share her HR story, and she gets real on some critical HR topics such as: HR taking their seat at the table Navigating your exit from HR Prioritizing self-care Her views on lunch and learns Managing your diary  Jane's must-read book: Getting Things Done The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen. This episode is brought to you complements of Process St.

With almost 100% of HR professionals struggling with burnout, I felt it necessary to share another HR burnout story with you. So joining me in the sound booth this week is Charli Gamber, and we are talking about moving from burnout to brilliance.   Charli is the Owner/Independent Agent of Benefits With Heart where she serves employers by strategically setting up their benefits packages, allowing them to attract and retain the best and brightest. In addition, administering their benefits seamlessly gives them valuable time back in their day. As a result, employees understand the value of their benefits presented, complain less about their benefits, and spend less time trying to figure out why that one claim isn't getting paid.    Charli is also the author of the book HR Burnout: Reigniting the flame, and you should check this out. Charli shares why she wrote the book, and we also talk about her most important lesson learned as an HR professional.   Chali's book list 📚 Fanatical Prospecting by Jeb Blount and 📚 Yes You Can Talk About Mental Health at Work by Melissa Doman   Follow Charli on LinkedIn and check out her book on Amazon.   This episode is brought to you with compliments of Process Street.

Cheryl DeSantis is the Chief People and Diversity Officer at the SmileDirectClub based in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. Cheryl describes herself as a purpose, and values-based leader and her values are courage, compassion, integrity and learning. She believes her purpose is to inspire and empower courageous transformation in leaders and to bring more empathy, love and kindness to the world. In this episode, Cheryl and I unpack what it means to have a coaching mindset in HR and how to be a more heart-centric professional. While many leaders may think that leading with empathy and focussing on creating meaningful moments that matter at work is "soft HR", Cheryl explains why this type of leadership is the future of leadership in the workplace. Cheryl is also a published author of the book "Steel Backbones Soft Heart", where she shares the story behind the turnaround in her HR career to heart-centric leadership and why all HR professionals and leaders should lead this way. We also discuss why her team value of "better is better" should be adopted across HR, what she does for self-care and the advice she would give to her younger self. This was a truly inspiring conversation, and I hope you enjoy it.  Follow Cheryl on LinkedIn and check out her new book on Amazon.  

This week I am magnifying the voice of Emily Connery, the VP of People & Talent at ChartHop. Emily shares her HR story, and we also learn about ChartHop and all of the wonderful things she and her team are doing to enhance the people experiences there.   Why ChartHop? Your people data is your most important data. And ChartHop was purpose-built for it. ChartHop brings together all your people data - from payroll & demographic to performance & engagement. They handle it extremely carefully, ensuring the most sensitive data is protected. But, with ChartHop, data is just the beginning. ChartHop is everything you need in one platform.   Emily also shares the resources that she finds helpful to keep her up to date on all things HR and the things she does for self-care.   Be sure to follow Emily on LinkedIn and check out ChartHop at https://www.charthop.com/.    

Reimund Nienaber is a Talent Development, Talent Analytics and Learning Analytics enthusiast and evangelist. Senior HR leader and generalist with profound hands-on global leadership capabilities, expertise and business acumen innovating 20 years in human resources and 15 years in technical and managerial roles with commended performance and proven results. Totalling 20+ years in the telecommunications industry. Excelling as a trusted senior management sparring partner and coach to develop business and people in a relentlessly and changing dynamic environment. Leading first-class HR teams favouring agile methodology. This week Reimund joins me to talk about Eligo and the work they are doing to provide organizations around the world with AI-powered learning and talent analytics.   Reimund also shares what he does to take care of himself while working in this demanding profession and shares one of his favourite resources to stay up to date in HR.   Check out Eligo at www.edligo.net and follow Reimund on LinkedIn.

Would you consider yourself a People Scientist? When we think about HR and how the profession has changed over the last ten years, the science behind how people think and feel about work has become a huge priority for us in HR.   This week I am happy to magnify Kevin Campbell's voice, an Employee Experience  Scientist with Qualtrics in the USA. Kevin shares his origin story, why he believes that the science behind what makes people happy at work matters, and why HR professionals should be more involved in people numbers.   Kevin helps organizations acquire, develop and retain their most valuable asset: their people. Kevin also helps people manage an aspect of their lives that plays a crucial role in their happiness: their work. He's spent the last decade of his career building leaders at every level and creating scores of engaged, high-performing, strengths-based teams.   Kevin's resources  Upstream by Dan Heath Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi   Connect, learn and grow with Kevin on LinkedIn.

What did you learn from the stillness of lockdown? As nature took a moment to catch itself, HR was continuously on the move, pivoting through the pandemic. Yet, in the moments of stillness, what did we actually learn?   Paul LaLonde joins me this week to share his HR story, talk about the power of stillness and celebrate women in HR.   Listen as we discuss: 📌 How men in HR can use their privilege and influence to elevate women in the profession. 📌 How sitting still can bring you to the answer 📌 Pandemics through the ages   Paul's resources: 📚 stillness is the Key 📚 The Sum of Us 📚 Redefining HR 📚 People Strategy 📚 The Tower Strategy   Be sure to follow Paul on LinkedIn and check out his booklist; it's great.  

Josh Schwede from Spotlyfe joins me to talk about hustle culture and Spotlyfe. SPOTLYFE is the first work tech solution aimed at helping to restore personal sustainability and fulfilment in order to promote business sustainability. Because when people are more fulfilled in their lives, businesses are more fulfilled by their people. I love the mission that Josh and the team at Spotlyfe are on and I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation. You can learn more about Spotlyfe by checking out their website at https://www.spotlyfe.com/ and be sure to follow them on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thespotlyfe/. 

When was the last time that you recognized someone on your team? Do you believe that recognition is an essential tool for building employee engagement? Debra Corey is back to talk about her new book, "Appreciate It | The Playbook for Employee Recognition. In this episode, Debra shares her mistakes in creating past recognition programs, what she learned from those mistakes and how her new book can help you to develop or improve your recognition practices. It is always a pleasure to catch up with Debra, and in our conversation, you can listen out for ways that she practices self-care and some advice that she would give to her younger self now starting in HR. Follow Debra on LinkedIn and pick up her book on Amazon.

Ekow Sani-Thomas is the Founder of Inside Voices an online platform that helps job-seekers figure out how companies treat people of color by hearing from current employees. Making diversity more transparent by providing a safe space for employees to share the truth.   In this episode Ekow shares: 📌 Why he created Inside Voices 📌 How Inside Voices works 📌 His personal experiences with racism in the workplace 📌 How HR and DEI departments can use Inside Voices to raise DEI awareness in the workplace We also break down some of his amazing content on TikTok   Be sure to follow Ekow on LinkedIn and check out Inside Voices.

Minda Harts joins me for this week's episode to talk about her new book, Right Within. From the lyrics of one of my favourite artists Lauryn Hill, we ask you, how will you win the war of racism in the workplace if you are not right within? How will you move on to bigger and better things if you do not heal and get right within?   If you have not read Minda's book, I highly suggest you put it in your shopping cart right now. Minda shares why she wrote this book, how HR failed her and practical suggestions on healing from racial trauma in the workplace. This is an episode you do not want to miss.   Have you ever experienced racial trauma at work? Do you believe that HR failed you in the process of dealing with it? What was the most challenging part of your healing journey? Share your story in the comments.

Gary Cookson describes himself as a father of four, husband and Director at EPIC in his spare time. This week I am magnifying his voice and his new book HR for Hybrid working, which is in stores now.   Listen as Gary shares: 📌 His HR story 📌 How workplace trauma changed his life 📌 Why he believes that more men should share their workplace trauma stories 📌 Why organizations need to consider being ok with HR to work hybrid, and much more.   Gary's resources: The Power of Geography - Tim Marshall Prisoners of Geography - Tim Marshall   Pick up Gary's book, and feel free to reach out to him on LinkedIn to let him know your thoughts on the book.

This week I am magnifying the voice of Lilian Phung. Lilian and I met on Twitter, another community I encourage HR professionals to participate in. Check out #hrcommunity on Twitter for insights and encouragement.    Lilian is the HR Manager for a fintech company called Vinovest, the world's first platform for investing in fine wine. In this episode, Lilian shares how she transitioned from being a pre-med Bio major to choosing HR. Listen to Lilian share:   Why she chose HR How she has shifted her professional style from managing to coaching How she copes with burnout and anxiety Lilian also shares some advice she would give to her younger self.   Lilian's book's Radical Acceptance - Tara Brach The Coaching Habit - Michael Bungay Stainer High Performance Habits - Brendon Burchard   Be sure to follow Lilian on LinkedIn and Twitter.    

This week I have the privilege to magnify the voice of John Baldino. John has over 25 years of experience in the HR profession and stepped aside from corporate HR to open his firm Humareso. He and his team provide Human Resources strategy and outsourced administration for all business types.   In this episode, John shares his HR story, and through our love of the animated movie Robots, we discuss how to see and fill a need in HR. It takes great bravery to step outside of your comfort zone to do something pioneering when others may think you are too much. John shares: Why you should consider advice from people who do not like you. Why he would tell his younger self to take a break. How he practices self-care. Why he believes that HR needs to "stop being the office of prescription". John also shares some resources with us, so get ready to load your Amazon cart. Follow John on LinkedIn and check out his LinkedIn Live show on Thursday mornings at 10:00 am, "But First Coffee", with his co-host Jackye Clayton.      

The first time content from @Peopleculturecollective started showing up in my TikTok feed, I was hooked and I knew that I had to have Veronica Sargeant as a guest on my show.   Veronica is a Fintech HR Leader who is passionate about Diversity and Inclusion and Leadership Development in both corporate and startup environments. She has held HR positions in a variety of industries, including FMCG, professional services, hospitality, manufacturing, and mining and her philosophy on HR as a function is to "nurture people to nurture talent."   Navigating social media as an HR professional can be difficult, especially when you are trying to be both engaging and funny (something HR is not known for). Pay attention to Veronica she definitely has the secret sauce.   You can follow Veronica on LinkedIn but be sure to check out her content on TikTok where she goes as the People Culture Collective.

Stacey Lewis is the Founder/CEO of HR Interrupted and is a true force of nature in the HR profession.   I had the pleasure of meeting Stacey last year during a panel discussion. At that moment, I knew she had to be a guest on the show.   Stacey has been in HR for 30 years and in this episode, she shares her why and what's next.   Some key quotes from this episode include:   "Everybody has a why"   "Sometimes you just have to jump"   "It takes will, drive & fortitude to get where you want to go"   "We have not, because we ask not"   Stacey's message today is going to light a fire under you to move you to your next season. Are you ready? Then let's sound off.   You can learn more about Stacey by following her LinkedIn. Use this link to out her company HR Interrupted.

Have you been having trouble getting your HR career off the ground? Or are you having trouble progressing in your HR career? This week's guest has some fantastic advice as she tells me about her 20-year HR career with the same employer.   Jennifer Wale works for the Body Shop in the United States as the People Director, Home Office & Distribution Center. Jennifer tells her inspiring HR story in this episode, and you'll learn:   📌 How she progressed in her HR profession from an administrative position to where she is now 📌 Key strategies for advancing your HR career 📌 The significance of career planning 📌 Jennifer's favourite aspect of working at the Body Shop 📌 The impact of open hiring on her life and much much more.   Jennifer also shares her self-care routine and what she reads these days to stay ahead in her career.   Be sure to connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn and follow The Body Shop to learn more about their people story.   You can also check out my YouTube channel to see my interview with Lauren Higgins - US Public Relations to learn more about how The Body Shop is supporting the people of Ukraine during this difficult season.  

Anna Bakunts made one of the most significant pivots I have ever heard about since I started this podcast show. Anna shares how she pivoted from studying as a pre-med to HR in this episode. Yes, you heard me right; it was a genuinely inspirational conversation.   Listen to us exchange thoughts on: 📌 Competing with other HR Consultants 📌 How to navigate social media as an HR Consultant 📌 Diversifying your consultant portfolio 📌 How to overcome client bias   Anna's picks: 📚 Never Split The Difference - Chris Voss 📚 Lost & Founder - Rand Fishkin   Be sure to connect with Anna on LinkedIn and check out HR Labs.

Tiffany Castagno describes herself as a transformative HR Curator of Culture, who is not afraid to challenge the Status Quo or shake up a Culture when needed because she owns and loves her Craft. Tiffany is extremely passionate about 𝑪𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑯𝑹. Which led her to open her company, 𝗖𝗘𝗣𝗛𝗥.    It was a pleasure to magnify Tiffany's voice this week. Join us for this poignant conversation on switching from being an HR Generalist in a company to becoming an HR Consultant. So many challenges come from being in the HR space, especially as an entrepreneur. Tiffany shares her why behind making the switch and her challenges.   We break down consulting for a large organization Vs consulting in a family business (yes, there is a difference). Tiffany drops so many words of wisdom in this episode, we hope you enjoy listening.   Tiffany's Picks: 📚 The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety - Timothy Clarke 📚 Anything Brene Brown 📚 The Power of Moments - Chip Heath   Be sure to follow Tiffany on LinkedIn and to check out CEPHR.

Keirsten Greggs is the Founder and CEO of TRAP Recruiter, LLC, a Recruiting Consulting and Career Coaching firm. With over 20 years of experience in Talent Acquisition, she's passionate about helping organizations attract, select and retain the best people, including underrepresented candidates, and helping job seekers find their voice in the hiring process. She does this through consulting, facilitating workshops, hosting training sessions and webinars, coaching job seekers, etc.    In this episode, Keirsten breaks down talent acquisition and explains why it is not as easy as everyone thinks. There are many layers to HR and many career paths to choose from, so I am delighted that Keirsten took the time to share her story with us, and I hope you enjoy this episode.   Kirsten's top picks: 📺 The new season of Ozark 📺 Abbot Elementary 📺 This is us 🎼 Gospel music 🎼 Old school rap   Follow Keirsten on LinkedIn and Twitter and check out her company TRAP Recruiter LLC

This week, I am magnifying the voice of the brilliantly talented Joseph Ifiegbu. Joseph is one of the Co-founders of the HR tech company eqtble, and in this episode, you get to learn more about the company and the tech.   eqtble works with over 150 HR and human capital management systems, requiring no technical knowledge. Plug in engagement, compensation, talent and workforce data direct from the source. You won't have to mess around with spreadsheets ever again.   Joseph and I sit down to chat about why he and his fellow co-founders decided to create this technology, why HR data matters and why HR professionals need to have a deeper understanding of the impact people data has on the organization. We also share our thoughts on the statement made by many leaders that "HR is not strategic."   Joseph also shares what he does to practice self-care, and the book series is currently grabbing his attention.   Be sure to follow Joseph on LinkedIn and check out eqtble today.

This week I am magnifying the voice of Omozua Ameze Isiramen. Omozua is a High-Performance Brain & Neuro Agility Trainer, Certified Executive Coach, Master Practitioner: Emotional Intelligence & Emotional Mastery, & Neuroscience Leadership Development Expert.   Omozua has over 25 years of experience in professional training, coaching and leadership development fields & neuroscience-based coaching methodologies: Neuro Agility™️, the 3-to-5 Brain System Code™️ (Co-creator).    In this episode we discuss: 📌 What is neuro-agility? 📌 Why should HR professionals understand neuro-agility and its impact on the workplace? 📌 How HR professionals can get the most out of their employees through understanding neuro-agility 📌 What the future of HR can look like through a neuro-agility lens.   It was a true honour to have this conversation with Omozua and there are lots of eye-opening, jaw-dropping moments.   Omosua's book picks 📚 Brain Rules - John Medina 📚 Brain Savy HR - Jan Hills 📚 Brain Savy Business - Jan Hills   Be sure to connect with Omozua on LinkedIn.  

This week I am magnifying the voice of Joshua Evans. Joshua helps organizations build phenomenal company cultures, destroying toxic work environments, and empowering leaders to communicate with impact. He does this by focussing on increasing employee engagement to lower turnover and eliminate mediocrity.    Joshua is also an international speaker, TEDx Programmer, #1 Best Selling author of the book Enthusiastic You, and describes himself as an all-around awesome guy.    In this episode, Joshua shares: 📌 What led him to Employee Engagement 📌 The why behind his book 📌 How he helps HR professionals to articulate their ask to get the support they need   Joshua's book pick 📚 QBQ - The Question Behind the Question by John Miller   Be sure to read Joshua's book and connect with him on LinkedIn  

This month I am magnifying the voice of Shakil Butt (FCIPD, FCCA). Shakil (FCIPD, FCCA, DChA) is a values driven, accomplished, award winning HR professional, with over 30 years of experience and has led an award winning global HR team in a multi faith, multi ethnic and multi cultural environment. Now an independent consultant, Shakil is able to add value by engaging with organizations and individuals with their HR and Organizational Development challenges. Join us as Shakil shares his HR story, gives insights into the world of organizational development and much more. 

Lucinda Carney joins me this week for a cross-collaboration. Lucinda is the HR Uprising podcast show host, CEO and Founder of Actus performance management software, and author of the book Change Superhero.   In this episode, we talk about all things HR, from self-care to strategic HR and much more.   Lucinda's resources: 📚 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Steven Covey 💐 Hypno CBT Course 🎹 Gamified piano playing   Be sure to follow Lucinda on LinkedIn and check out the HR Uprising podcast show.

Joining me for this week's episode is Paula Allen. Paula is the Global Leader and SVP, Research and Total Wellbeing at LifeWorks. In this episode, you will learn more about AbilitiCBT and Lifeworks. We can all be impacted by poor mental health at some point in our lives, and I am glad to know that companies such as AbilitiCBT exist. Paula shares her story into the mental health space and all of the fantastic work she gets to do at Lifeworks. Be sure to follow Paula on LinkedIn.

Debbie Cohen and Kate Roeske-Zummer are women on a mission to put the human back into the workplace. They are so passionate about this mission that they created a company and wrote a book together. Their book is called " Humanity Works Better, five practices to lead with Awareness, Choice, and the Courage to Change."   In this episode, we discuss: 📌 How Debbie and Kate met and started this groundbreaking work 📌 The why behind the book and the company 📌 The importance of boundaries    Listen out for how they answer the demystifying HR question.   Debbie & Kate's book picks Subtract - The Untapped Power of Less by Leidy Klotz Peak - How Great Companies Get Their Mojo From Maslow by Chip Conley   Be sure to follow Debbie and Kate on LinkedIn and check out their book, now available store wide.   This episode is powered by AbilitiCBT.    

Marley Huckabee is one of the thousands of HR professionals who left their jobs during the pandemic. Why? In her own words, Marley says, "𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈'𝐦 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟; 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲, 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝, 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝. 𝐈'𝐦 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐧. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈'𝐦 𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈'𝐦 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐒𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭, 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐨 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐑 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐭."   Marley joins me in this weeks episode to discuss:- 📌 Recruiting for HR roles through a pandemic 📌 The importance of HR community in times of crisis and beyond 📌 The joy in finding an organization that deserves you 📌 Words of encouragement to struggling HR pros   Marley's book picks: 📚 Diversity At Work The Practice Of Inclusion 📚 The First 90 Days 📚 HR From The Heart   Click on the link in the comments to listen to the full recording of this episode and connect with Marley and LinkedIn.   This episode is powered by AbilitiCBT.

Heidi Torres joins me this week to talk about her book, "The CEOS of Networking."   In this episode, Heidi shares: 📌 Why she wrote the book 📌 The intended audience for her book 📌 Networking as an introvert in HR 📌 Why your social media presence as an HR professional matters   Heidi's picks: Books 📚 Athena Rising - Brad Johnson & David G Smith  📚 Grit - Angela Duckworth 📚 Saturday Morning Tea - Tony Bridwell Podcasts 🎙 Better Call Daddy 🎙 Leaders & Lagers 🎙 Life In The Leadership Lane 🎙 Marketing Mambo   Be sure to connect with Heidi on LinkedIn and pick up her book. This episode is powered by AbilitiCBT.    

Nakisha Hicks is one of my favourite people in the HR for HR space. In addition to working a full-time job, Nakisha runs her firm, The ElevateHer. Her mission is to help women get clear on their career paths so that they can land fulfilling and purpose-driven roles faster.   In this episode, Nakisha and I talk about: 📌 The evolution of HR moving from "The Help" to being valued 📌 Working through workplace trauma 📌 HR as the essential workers of the organization 📌 How to build your personal brand on LinkedIn   Nakisha's book list 📚 Year Of Yes - Shonda Rhimes 📚 What Happened To You - Oprah Winfrey & Bruce Perry 📚 The One Thing - Gary Keller 📚 Atomic Habits - James Clear   Be sure to connect with Nakisha on LinkedIn and check out her coaching services.   This episode was powered by AbilitiCBT.

Dr. Vivian Woo is the Lead People Science Analyst at Culture Amp. In this episode, we discuss the value of people data to the organization as translated by HR. If you struggle with presenting your HR data, this episode is just for you. Listen to our conversation as Vivian: Shares her HR story Defines People Science Shares the advantages and disadvantages of storing your people data in Excel Explains how HR data can help you to make wise decisions about the people in your organization If you have been considering a career in HR and are not sure where to specialize, we hope that this episode may get you more excited about people analytics.   Vivian's TV pick: 📺 What we do in the shadows   Be sure to connect with Vivian on Linkedin and if you want to learn more about Culture Amp, send an email to [email protected] to learn more.   Thanks to our sponsors at AbilitiCBT for powering this episode.  

Joan Underwood joins me for our first episode of the new year, ringing in 2022 as we discuss Joan's: Career in HR. New book "The Manager's First Aid Kit." Passion for psychological safety in the workplace. Vision for the future of HR. I love Joan's drive to support her clients as they navigate their seat at the table, and I hope that her journey and experiences will inspire you as you continue your journey in the world of work.   Joans' booklist 📚 How Women Rise - Sally Helgesen & Marshal Goldsmith 📚 What Got You Here, Won't Get You There - Marshall Goldsmith   Buy your Copy of the 📚 Managers' First Aid Kit. Connect with Joan on LinkedIn   This Episode is sponsored by AbilitiCBT

What would you say if I asked you what your relationship as HR is like with your in-house legal counsel? Unfortunately, most HR teams only go to their legal counsel at the sound or sight of trouble. Most legal teams only get involved when things are getting terrible, but what if there was a way to counteract all of that by creating a good relationship from the start?   Kim Freeman joins me in the sound booth today to talk about how In-house legal teams can be more proactive and supportive to HR teams. We also chat about:   🎯 Kim's HR journey 🎯 Why in-house legal teams should try to be more well-rounded 🎯 How HR professionals can develop their legal muscle 🎯 Why she believes that HR is not useless.   Kim's top pick is The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho.   Be sure to connect with Kim on LinkedIn and follow her at Above The Rim HR.  

This is a special episode where I get the opportunity to interview Jon Thurmond and Wendy Dailey as I celebrate two years in podcasting, and they get ready to celebrate 200 episodes.   I have learned a lot about podcasting from Jon and Wendy, and they have been so unselfish in what they share with me, I wanted to give a little something back to them to thank them.   In this episode, we : 🦸🏽‍♀️ Geek out about Marvel comics, movies & cartoons (15 minutes, stay with us) 🦹‍♀️ Learn how Jon and Wendy met and started their show HR Social Hour 🦸‍♂️ Listen to their advice on creating and maintaining a podcast 🦸🏾 Learn what is next for Jon and Wendy   Also, listen out for our debate as to whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas movie 🤣🤣🤣   The only resources we shared related to Marvel and Christmas Movies, so be sure to catch: 📽 Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 📽 Super Hero Squad 📽 Fantastic Spiderman 📽 M.O.D.O.K. 📽 Hit Monkey 📽 Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengence 📽 Hawkeye 📽 Hawkeye Vol 1,  My Life As A Weapon 📽 Home Alone 1 & 2 📽 Die Hard 📽 Raya and the Last Dragon 📽 Captain Marvel 📽 It's a Wonderful Life 📽 A Christmas Story   Be sure to follow Jon and Wendy on LinkedIn and listen to the HR Social Hour HR Social Hour on Twitter All things Jon Thurmond Wendy - My Dailey Journey

Kristina Ashley Williams (she/her) is a leading voice in organizational cultures, futurist thinking, and inclusive design, known for her illuminating personality and experiential learning innovations. She currently serves as CEO of two dynamic ventures. Focused on the future of work, Unpacking is an online learning & certifications platform for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the great-great niece of Jackie Robinson, her award-winning work is not just about passion; it is legacy. Williams has received notable recognition from the NAACP, Beyoncé's BEYGood Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Techstars, Verizon, TechCrunch, and more.     In this episode, Kristina and I discuss: 🎯 Why she created Unpacking 🎯 What customers can expect as they experience the platform 🎯 The challenges faced as a black woman building a tech startup 🎯 Why she believes that HR teams in the US need to become more diverse    Kristina shares her joys and fears as a black female business owner in the DEI space, and I could not be more proud of her. This episode is a bit longer than usual, but you will soon see why and hope that you, too, will respect the power of the pause.   Kristina's resource picks Building For Everyone - Annie Jean-Baptiste Brené Brown Podcasts Real Housewives - Every superhero needs some downtime 🙃   Please check out Unpacking and follow Kristina to learn more about her excellent work, and she continues to support organizations in extending their DEI strategies.

Alisha Harris describes herself as a Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Friend, and your HR Advocate, and she means it. This week Alisha joins me to talk about the new HR community she has created called CollabHR.   In this episode, you will learn: 🎯 What is CollabHR 🎯 Why Alisha Created the community 🎯 What CollabHR can do for you as an HR professional and lots more   It is no secret that I love HR tech and so excuse Alisha and me while we geek out a bit on HR tech and why she chose to combine her love for HR and startups together to be her own boss.   Be sure to follow Alisha on LinkedIn, check out CollabHR and join the community. The more we support each other, the better.   Alisha Book Choice 📚 The Wake Up - Michelle MiJung Kim

Upskilling and Reskilling in HR are words that we hear all the time. We work very hard to develop learning opportunities for the employees we serve,  but what about HR? Where can we go to effectively upskill and reskill to prepare us for that next role or to widen our scope of knowledge and expertise in HR? I am very honoured today to introduce you to The Academy to Innovate HR (AIHR).   In this week's episode, I talk to Erik van Vulpen one of the Founders of AIHR. In this episode, we discuss: 🎯 Why Erik and his business partner Nando Steenhuis started AIHR 🎯 Their course content and structure 🎯 The AIHR T-Shaped HR Assessment and why you should take it. 🎯 The AIHR Community   Listen out for Nando's view on the purpose of HR and advice that we would give to his younger self.   Nando's book pick: The Leadership Pipeline by Ram Charan, Steve Drotter and Jim Noel

Matt Phelan joins me live and direct from this years CIPD conference in my home town of Manchester. Matt is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of The Happiness Index and is passionate about his mission to improve the way organizations treat people. A mission that completely aligns with my values.   The Happiness Index helps organizations measure the key employee engagement and happiness drivers to power their people strategy. Underpinned by neuroscience, The Happiness Index platform will help you understand how your people think, feel and behave. Their data-driven insights will enable you to boost retention, productivity and performance.   In this episode, Matt and I discuss: Why measuring emotions at work matters How measuring engagement and happiness impacts your people decisions Why we need to rethink the statement "if you can measure it, you can manage it." How to become more proactive in recognizing disengaged or unhappy employees How to gain freedom through disconnecting from social media   Matt has also graciously agreed to send ten free copies of his book "Freedom To Be Happy" to the first ten listeners of this show. So if you want to win a free copy of his book, send the words #freedomtobehappy along with your address to [email protected], and I will share your information with Matt so that you can get your free copy of his book. Winners of this competition will be announced across our social media.

Victoria Yang joins me this week to introduce you to Bonusly. Bonusly is a fun and easy-to-use employee engagement platform that has an incredible impact on motivation and morale. If you have been searching for a platform to help you to encourage frequent and timely recognition, then Bonusly is the one for you.    Recently I shared my thoughts on compassion and empathy in the workplace in one of Bonusly's blogs, so I thought it would be great to learn more about them and share their platform with you.   Victoria is their VP of People Operations, and so while we talked shop, we also took some time to discuss: 🎯 Victoria's HR origin story 🎯 Advice she would give to her younger self 🎯 How working at Bonusly has affected the way she looks at employee engagement 🎯 Why she is proud to be in HR 🎯 Advice for HR professionals on how to get leadership to support your engagement initiatives   Victoria's Book Pick's 📚 Just Work - Kim Scott 📚 The Making of a Manager - Julie Zhuo   The future looks bright for Victoria and Bonusly, so please be sure to connect with Victoria on LinkedIn and learn more about Bonusly.

Do you struggle with having difficult conversations with your leadership? Are you tired of being seen as the cleanup crew instead of being a part of the immediate response team? Then you are going to love today's show.   Liz Kislik is one of the most wonderful human beings I have ever met. Today, she shares her insights on how HR can manage difficult conversations when we feel misaligned with our leadership.   Liz works as a consultant, coach, and facilitator to help leaders move their companies and careers forward. She shares her professional advice as a contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Entrepreneur and speaker for TEDx and other organizations.   In this episode, Liz shares: 🎯 Her career journey 🎯 Tips on how to have courageous conversations with your leadership 🎯 Reasons why misalignment with leadership occurs 🎯 Why HR should be taking vitamins instead of aspirin 🎯 Why HR needs to start accepting help 🎯 How to stay on top of critical issues in our profession   Listen out for Liz' take on coaching, her broom analogy and that one misconception about HR that bothers her and why.   Be sure to follow Liz on LinkedIn and check out her website for her free download to help you identify and resolve interpersonal conflicts in the workplace.  

Sean Glavin and Paul Roberts of the Boston HR Council join me this week to talk about the community they founded just before the start of the pandemic.   Established specifically for HR senior-level executives, #BostonHRCouncil provides key decision-makers with trend updates, profiles of fellow HR visionaries, success stories, and human resources ideas and innovations.    In this episode we discuss: 🎯 Why two guys with no HR experience decided to create this community 🎯 What to expect at a council meeting 🎯 How you can get involved in the Boston HR Council   Listen to Sean and Paul as they share words of encouragement to HR professionals that are missing #hrcommunity in their lives.   Resources: 📚 Surrounded By Idiots - Thomas Erikson 📚 Atomic Habits - James Clear 📚 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey 📺 Documentaries on 911 on Netflix   Be sure to connect with Sean and Paul on LinkedIn and Follow the Boston HR Council to learn more

I love to share HR communities with you because it is not easy being in this profession, and community is everything. This week, I have the privilege of magnifying the voice of Adese Okojie, who is the Founder of the Black Women in HR (BWHR) community. In this week's episode, we will learn: 🌟 Adese' HR origin story 🌟 The origin story of BWHR 🌟 What the BWHR community can do for you 🌟 The upcoming BWHR conference in November 🌟 The highs and lows of putting the conference together We will also learn about the biggest misconception about HR that bothers Adese. Adese' resources: Amend - Netflix Be sure to connect with Adese on LinkedIn and pick up your conference tickets using this link.

Known as authentic, transformational business leaders, Co-Founders Hema Crockett and Jamie Jacobs believe that people should do what they love and love what they do. Synthesizing decades of combined experience as business and HR executives across a broad range of companies and industries, Hema and Jamie provide their vast consultant and client base with the tools and resources they need to succeed. In this episode, we discuss: 🌟 Their HR origin stories 🌟 The birth of Gig Talent 🌟 The transformation of HR careers 📚 Their book Designing Exceptional Organizational Cultures Resources: 📚 Drunk tank pink - Adam Alter Check out Gig Talent Be sure to connect with Jamie and Hema on LinkedIn

Ricklyn Woods is an HR Pro on a mission to support her fellow colleagues in landing the job they deserve and she does it with great passion and style. Taking all of her knowledge and experience from her HR career, Ricklyn chose to pivot in 2020 during the pandemic to offer her services to the people supporting the people. In this episode, Ricklyn and I discuss: 🌟 Her inspirational HR origin story 🌟 Advice to young women on how to rise from unexpected detours in life 🌟 The impact of connecting with intention on LinkedIn 🌟 How her career pivot has changed her life and the lives of those she serves 🌟 Our petition to HR leaders to support the personal and professional development of their HR teams Listen to us put Tracie Sponenberg on the spot as we petition for our first HR Rebels retreat to be in Barbados. Ricklyn's Picks 📚 Betting on You - Laurie Ruettimann 📚 Own Your Career, Own Your Life - Andy Storch 📚 Redefining HR - Lars Schmidt 🎙 Side Hustle Pro 🎙 Switch Pivot or Quit Be sure to connect with Ricklyn on LinkedIn and check out her podcast show "So You Think You Can HR".

Sejal Thakkar is a woman on a mission to bring awareness to the many unconscious beliefs we hold in the workplace that limit our ability to create great relationships and experiences with others. Sejal is an employment law expert and currently holds the position of Chief Culture Officer at Nobody Studios in California. In this episode, I had the privilege of talking to Sejal about: 🌟 The inspiration behind her first TED Talk 🌟 Defining unconscious beliefs 🌟 Microaggressions and affirmations 🌟 The Power of making intentional connections on LinkedIn 🌟 Biases in recruitment 🌟 The HAT theory Listen out for us fangirling over Luvvie Ajai Jones and our shout out to Brian Bachand. Sejal's picks: 📚 Blank Canvas by Craig Stanland 🎙 How to be a Professional Trouble-Maker - Luvvie Ajai Jones Be sure to watch Sejal's TED Talk The Pain, Power, and Paradox of Bias and follow her on LinkedIn

Fat phobia is defined as the fear of fatness and fat people and is something that Dr. Joy Cox and I are no strangers to, unfortunately. Dr Cox joins me in this episode to discuss her book, "Fat Girls in Black Bodies: Creating Our Own Communities," as well as to share her insights on how we can create a more inclusive workplace by showing support to employees who are fat. When I read Dr Cox's book there were many things that resonated with me about how I have been treated as a fat black woman by family, friends and work colleagues. I hope that our conversation moves you to become more educated about fat phobia and causes you to think about how you frame your conversations with us. Dr. Cox shares some practical tips for HR and leaders on how to make the workplace a more inclusive space for fat bodies and some words of encouragement to the fat community. Dr. Cox's resources: 🎯 Ragen Chastain - Dances with fat 🎯 Ivy Felicia - Fat women of colour 🎯 Dr. Veronica Garnett (LinkedIn) 🎯 Tigress Osborn (LinkedIn) 📚 Leah Vernon - Unashamed: Musings of a fat black Muslim (Amazon) 🎯 Jabbie (FaceBook) Be sure to connect with Dr. Cox on LinkedIn and Instagram @freshoutofthecocoon My favourite quote from this episode would be, "The magic that you (organizations) need is resting in the bodies you reject."

Adam Posner describes himself as a human connector and has a firm belief that to be the best recruiter, you need to fully understand the needs of your client and the candidate. A formula that many in the talent acquisition space get wrong. In this episode, Adam and I discuss: 🎯 Adam's origin story into recruitment 🎯 Life as an entrepreneur and lessons learned 🎯 Why everyone cannot recruit 🎯 The impact of extended open roles on the employee experience 🎯 Reflections and advice to his younger self Adam also shares his thoughts on the "great resignation" and why he would prefer to refer to it as the "great migration." Poz's Picks 📚 Betting on You - Laurie Ruettimann 📺 Below Deck Meditteranean 📺 White Lotus 📺 Ted Lasso (Apple TV) 📺 Never Have I Ever 📺 Billions 📺 The Morning Show Be sure to connect with Adam on LinkedIn and check out the PozCast which is available on all podcast platforms.

If you are an HR Manager, VP, Director, CHRO, how would you describe your leadership style? Are you approachable? Does your team like working with you? or do you rule with fear? This week, Lotus Buckner joins me to discuss what authentic leadership in HR means and what it should look like. Some key takeaways from this episode include: 🎯 How to build trust as a leader 🎯 The power of vulnerability in leadership 🎯 How to become more self-aware as a bad leader and turn behaviours around 🎯 How to have courageous conversations with a bad leader 🎯 When to give up and move on Lotus was very open about her HR career and the changes going on in her life and we also took the time to discuss the one misconception that people have about HR that really bothers her. Be sure to connect with Lotus on LinkedIn.

Judon Bowden is no stranger to Industrial Relations and Compliance. He gives credit to his mother for seeing something in him that moved him to develop his career in HR. Judon joins me in this episode, to touch on one of the most heated topics in the HR space at this time and that is the subject of mandatory vaccinations in the workplace. In addition, we discuss: 🎯 Judon's career highs and lows 🎯 His thoughts on the future of men in HR 🎯 Why HR is not about people-pleasing 🎯 Judon gives his advice to HR professionals on how to handle delicate conversations around vaccinations Judon's references: 📚 The Pause Principle - By Kevin Cashman 📚 The First 90 Days - By Michael Watkins 📺 Manifest on Netflix 🎧 Essence - WizKid Be sure to follow Judon on LinkedIn and Twitter

I met Darlene Slaughter earlier this year while I was moderating a panel discussing at the Hacking HR conference on moving from insight to action in DEI. I knew from that moment that we needed to continue the conversation we started from the panel, on the show. Darlene is the VP, Chief People Officer with March of Dimes and her knowledge and experience in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion space is so great that we wanted to share it with you. In this episode, Darlene and I discuss: 🎙 How the Black Lives Matter movement has impacted her as a human and DEI practitioner 🎙 What DEI means to Darlene 🎙 Why having a heart of gratitude matters to Darlene 🎙 The misconception about HR that bothers her the most Darlene briefly shares her story of losing her husband to COVID, as we have a very vulnerable conversation about where do we go from here to create inclusive workspaces knowing what we know now. Darlene's resources: The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World Be sure to connect with Darlene on LinkedIn

Aubrey Blanche is an absolutely incredible human being. Aubrey joins me today to talk about her journey in the DEI space and why she is so passionate about the work she does. Aubrey is the Director of Equitable Design, Product & People at Culture Amp and I am a huge fan of her and this organization. In this episode you will learn: What equity in the workplace means to Aubrey Aubrey's mental health story Why building a culture of belonging in the workplace matters What it means to bring your whole self Vs your authentic self to work Aubrey's resources The Calm App The Inner Work of Racial Justice - By Rhonda Magee and Jon Kabat-Zinn This Bridge Called My Back - By Cherrie Moraga Chicana Feminism books Also, listen out for our very open conversation about fat-shaming in the workplace. Be sure to follow Aubrey on LinkedIn.

Shannon Pritchett is the Head of Community at Hiretual/Evry1 and joins me this week to discuss the Evry1 community and why creating such a forum matters to her. In this episode, we will also discuss: 🎙 What sets Evry1 apart from other online communities in Talent Acquisition 🎙 What Shannon believes Recruiters should be focussing on to enhance the candidate experience coming out of COVID 🎙 Her experience of being recruited and how it has impacted her career as a recruiter 🎙 Qualities of a great Recruiter Shannon also shares her fangirl story of an encounter that she had with Drew Brees during a university scouting tour as a swimmer. Be sure to follow and connect with Shannon on LinkedIn and check out the Evry1 community. Shannon's resources: The Moment of Lift - Melinda Gates Below Deck on Bravo Marketing Podcasts

Gethin Nadin joins me in the sound booth this week to talk about employee wellbeing through the pandemic and beyond. Gethin is an award-winning MBPsS Psychologist, employee wellbeing champion, author and speaker, and likely to be the one to walk up to your employees on the street to ask them, "do you believe that your employer cares about you?" In this episode, we talk about why employee wellbeing matters, what employers got wrong at the start of the pandemic and how we can move forward to intentionally include wellbeing in our organization strategy moving forward. Gethin's resources Your Honor on HBO The Truth Manifesto Connect with Gethin on LinkedIn

Nicky Hoyland is the Founder and CEO of Huler and a very dear friend of mine. In this week's episode, we talk about the amazing platform that Nicky and her team have created and that we have now christened as the "Glastonbury" of platforms. I am truly honoured to have Huler as the sponsor of this episode and to be using this platform in my coaching programs. Want to learn more about how you can bring your organization closer together with Huler? Listen as Nicky explains why she created it, how it works and where you can plug in and get connected. Nicky also shares her HR story and you can learn more about Huler by clicking on this link. Nicky's resources: Transformational HR by Perry Timms The HR Social Hour Podcast Redefining HR Podcast Be sure to connect with Nicky on LinkedIn

For episode 60, I am joined by the amazing Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid, who is taking over my show to interview me and discuss my new book and more. In this episode you will learn: My HR origin story 🔸 What inspired me to write my book 🔸 What makes me anxious and how I cope with it 🔸 Who really runs my business HR@Heart 🔸 My plans for the future My Resources I'm Judging you and Professional Troublemaker by Luvvie Ajayi Jones Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott Gumbo by PJ Morton Thank you for sticking with me through 60 episodes. I appreciate you so much and look forward to sharing the next 60 and beyond with you. Be sure to pick up my book Confessions of an HR Pro: Stories of Defeat & Triumph available at Amazon in paperback and on Kindle.

This is the first episode in a series of shows that will focus on how companies can build intentional People first cultures. My first guest in Shannon Brodie from DTE and her company was listed in the top 20 companies in the US by a recent Gallup survey. In this episode, Shannon shares: 🔸 Her HR origin story 🔸 What it is like to be a part of the COLD Team 🔸 How the Disney Institute help them to create their culture code 🔸 Her top 3 culture-building tips Shannon's resources The Grid - By Gretchen Bakke You're Not Listening - By Kate Murphy That's What She Said - By Joanna Lipman Be sure to connect with Shannon on LinkedIn. Thanks to Hiretual for sponsoring this episode.

Jameela Hollingsworth, the HR Boss, joins me for this week's episode as we discuss her HR journey. In this episode, Jameela talks about what it is like to run her own business while studying 20 + hours a week, returning to her legal roots, and doing all of this while managing the HR department of one of the biggest tourism management companies in Barbados and, serving in five countries. Jameela shares advice that she has for young and aspiring HR professionals trying to enter the field. We also talk about being "Olivia Pope in real-life", working in politics and crisis management. Be sure to check out her recommendations for your reading pleasure. I know how she does it - Laura VanderKam You Are a Badass - Jen Sincero You Are a Badass at Making Money - Jen Sincero Connect with Jameela on Social media at: LinkedIn The HR Boss

My introvert brother Erich Kurschat joins me for this weeks episode of the HR Sound Off Podcast Show. Erich and I first met over 2 years ago when we sat on a panel for the Hacking HR Global Conference. We discussed networking as introverts in that talk, and our introvert sister Tracie Sponenberg was part of that conversation. We have all remained great friends since making that first connection. It was great to have this conversation with Erich and to share with you his passion for making intentional connections in our HR community. Join the conversation as we discuss: 🔸 Erich's HR origin story 🔸 Being a DISC nerd 🔸 Creating the HR Hot Seat Community Erich's Resources The Obstacle is The Way Getting to Yes Listen to the HR Social Hour Be sure to connect with Erich on LinkedIn and check our video short on our YouTube channel. Don't forget to subscribe while you are there.

Melony James lives and breathes occupational safety and health. Her passion for this profession exudes in our conversation today as we talk about why HR and occupational health & safety go hand in hand. In this episode, you will learn: 🔸 How Melony started her career 🔸 Why Melony believes that Health and safety should be an entrenched value in every organisation 🔸 Why lack of accountability from leadership can affect employee engagement 🔸 Steps HR can take to create a purposeful safety culture Connect with Melony on LinkedIn Melony’s resource: American Mental Health association Newsletter

Kris Dunn joins me in the sound booth today to talk about his book "The 9 Faces of HR". If you are struggling to figure out who you are in the HR space, this book is just what you are looking for. In this episode, Kris and I discuss: 🔸 His HR origin story 🔸 Building your career in HR 🔸 His prediction on returning to work Kris' Resources 🔸 The 9 Faces of HR 🔸 Betting on You - Laurie Ruettimann 🔸 The HR Capitalist 🔸 Fistful of Talent Be sure to connect with Kris on LinkedIn and interact with his content in his newsletters.

Monique Russell is a communications expert, trainer, podcaster and sought after keynote speaker. In this episode, we discuss how HR professionals can effectively communicate with their leadership team and cover the following: 🔸 The fundamentals of effective communication 🔸 Activating self-awareness 🔸 Effectively communicating with leaders driven by ego 🔸 Connecting cultures through storytelling Be sure to connect with Monique to learn more about how she can help you unleash the communicator within. Connect with Monique on LinkedIn Resources: Self Care Matters A Revolutionary's Approach - Anana Johari Harris Paris Lauren Ostrowski Fenton

Danielle Tait is a huge advocate for innovation in HR in the Caribbean. It was such a pleasure to sit down and have this conversation with her about how we can move organizations in the Caribbean forward using the analytics available to them to create meaningful work. In this episode, we discuss: 🔸 The Interview JM and the 1 million interviews project 🔸 Her partnership with BambooHR 🔸 Why attending global HR conferences will help with your professional development 🔸 How to step up your game in HR Resources 🔸 joshbersin.com Josh Bersin Academy 🔸 Work Rules by Laszlo Bock 🔸 AIHR | Academy to Innovate HR Be sure to connect with Danielle.

What is a CHRO? How do they support the business? What keeps them up at night? Dr. Cassida Jones-Johnson joins me in this episode to answer these questions and more. Dr. Jones-Johnson has a career that has taken her worldwide and exposed her to numerous cultures. In her last role as CHRO at Grace Kenedy in Jamaica, she grew in leaps and bounds. Her presence is both commanding and heartwarming, and it was a pleasure to sit down with her to discuss: 🔸 The impact of the CHRO role on the business. 🔸 Why it is important to put your leaders in the driver's seat of their careers. 🔸 How to become a strategic thinker and partner. 🔸 Why you need to think like a CEO while in HR. I apologise for this episode's sound quality; I am sure you will enjoy it nonetheless. Be sure to connect with Dr. Jones-Johnson on LinkedIn. Listen out for her explanation on why she uses LinkedIn.

Winona Rajamohan and Keke Mcclaney join me for this episode to talk about Hiretual. I am so honoured to have Hiretual as a sponsor, and I look forward to working with them for a long time. Hiretual was made by recruiters for recruiters and is the candidate search and data engine for your sourcing and recruiting efforts. Integrate with your tech stack for a complete top-of-the-funnel solution — source across 750M+ profiles, engage with personalized campaigns and rediscover lost profiles in your ATS. Winona and Keke discuss their stories on how they joined the team at Hiretual, what they love about the team and communities they have created, and I get them to share what they would tell their younger selves as young women of colour. Listen as they set the record straight on that one misconception that people have about recruiters that drives them crazy. Resources: Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man - Emmanuel Acho The Existentialist's Survival Guide: How to Live Authentically in an Inauthentic Age Beloved Connect with Winona and Keke on LinkedIn Check out Hiretual

Jarrod Best-Mitchell joins me for episode 50, and this time, we take a little twist as we discuss branding on LinkedIn as an HR Pro. Jarrod is from the twin-island of Trinidad & Tobago and is known for sales, LinkedIn and his love for the colour yellow. In fact, Jarrod admits that if he could have a national colour to represent him, it would be yellow. Jarrod took some time out of his busy schedule to discuss: 🔸 The importance of a good LinkedIn profile 🔸 Intro video tips 🔸 Personal branding Many HR professionals are losing out because they are not marketing themselves properly on LinkedIn, so listen to why Jarrod believes that your digital presence on the most important digital platform for professionals should matter to you. Connect with Jarrod on LinkedIn Website Jarrod's resources Competitive Strategy by Michael Forde Favourite quote: "Your LinkedIn profile is your house."

Tisha Peters loves career coaching. You can see it in her face when you talk to her, and it was a pleasure to have this conversation with her. In this episode, Tisha and I discuss: 🔸 Doing what you love on the side 🔸 Her passion for training and development (L&D) 🔸 Creating your own fit 🔸 Personal branding Tisha's Resources: Find Your Why - Simon Sinek Vanessa Lau on YouTube Erin on Demand on YouTube Be sure to connect with Tisha on LinkedIn and check out Careercoach246. Favourite quote, "When you cannot find the right fit, make your own fit."

Khalilah "KO" Olokunola describes herself as an "Impact Architect", and I could not agree with her more. Her story will take your breath away and give you hope. She is the breath of fresh air we all need in HR, and I am so glad that I got this chance to share space with her. In this episode, which I can only describe as a rollercoaster ride you do not want to miss; Khalilah and I talk about: 🔸 How her past and pain has lead her to her purpose. 🔸 Why she measures "shots fired" on the job. 🔸 We break down her acronym for D-I-R-T-Y HR. and, 🔸 Why you should be creating "Bankable Blueprints." My favourite quote: "Your pride is not as important as your purpose." Be sure to connect with Khalilah on LinkedIn. Khalilah's resources: Atomic Habits 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership Watch Black Panther and Thor again because we said so... To receive the PDF Version of Khalilah's Purpose Plan, contact me at [email protected], and I will be happy to share it with you.

Laurie Ruettimann is now on my official HR Hero list! It was an absolute pleasure and honor to interview this amazing woman, speaker, podcaster, and author. The breadth and depth of Laurie's experience come to life in this episode as we discuss: 🔸 Her HR origin story. 🔸 Why doing the work of your life is important. 🔸 Why HR cannot fix work without fixing self first. 🔸 What the future of HR looks like. My favorite quote in this episode: "The sooner we get going with the work of our lives, the bigger the impact." 🔥🔥🔥 Be sure to connect with Laurie on LinkedIn Listen to Punk Rock HR Laurie's Book Recommendation: Mindful money - by Johnathan K DeYoe Check out Laurie's book: Betting on You

Torin Elis Joins me in this episode for a riveting conversation on how organizations can create a DE&I strategy that is robust and holds everyone in leadership accountable. Torin specializes in working with companies to create their DE&I strategy using a top-down/bottom-up approach and is very passionate about what he does. Torin lays out the fundamentals of creating your DE&I strategy as: 🔸 Make a declaration to the organization stating your commitment to having a diverse workforce. 🔸 Allocate the necessary resources for your DE&I initiatives to succeed. 🔸 Hold people accountable and call out non-inclusive behaviors. Connect with Torin on LinkedIn Website Resources: 🔸 Russel Reynolds Inclusive Leadership report 🔸 Larry Fink Letter to CEOs 2018 🔸 Me and White Supremacy

Galen Emanuele joins me in this episode to talk about why organizations need to be intentional about creating a culture built on a code of conduct that people can be proud of and can call each other out on when necessary. Galen is a powerhouse, and he brings his passion and energy for culture to this discussion. In this episode you can find out: 🔸 Galen's origin story 🔸 What a day in the life of team "Shift Yes" looks like 🔸 Why company culture matters 🔸 One misconception about HR that he is setting the record straight on Connect with Galen on LinkedIn: Subscribe to his YouTube Channel: Galen's book recommendations: Traction Fierce Conversations

Kurtis Tompkins is the Owner of Jobready2dey out of Charlotte, North Carolina, and he is extremely passionate about recruitment. So much so that he wrote and published a book called "Resume Writing Simplified." In this episode Kurtis talks about: 🔸 Why HR professionals need to humanize the recruitment process 🔸 Tips on crafting a winner resume 🔸 His book 🔸 What he believes is the biggest misconception about our profession and more. Connect with Kurtis Resources: Resume Writing Simplified Escaping The Trap Project Help You Grow

Believe it or not, Tim Sackett was born into HR. His early career in the recruitment space started with his mother who was a recruiter and entrepreneur and he is proud to share that she taught him everything he knows. Today Tim runs the family business started by his mother and has recruited in various industries through out his career. It is his great passion for what he does brings him to the sound booth to discuss: How to be a self taught Recruiter His worst recruiting experience Striking the balance as an HR Pro Recruitment tech tips Humanizing recruitment Also, hear Tim clear up the biggest misconception about HR that really bothers him and why the other Tim Sackett may not be so pleased with him. Connect with Tim: Tim Sackett on LinkedIn Tim Sackett on Twitter Resources: The Tim Sackett Project Malcolm Gladwell Books Workday The Prof G Show The Economist

Alex Her joins me in the sound booth to talk about employer branding and how we can succeed as a department of one or more. Are you maximizing your branding strategy to attract the best talent to your organization? While most companies in the Caribbean may not be rated on Glassdoor or other company rating sites, we are not far away from this becoming a part of our culture. Alex shares insights on how to boost your employer brand as an HR pro and why this matters and he drops some serious bombs on why reviews on these rating sites matter. Be sure to connect with Alex to learn more. Resources: Give and Get to Employer Branding Talent Chooses You James Ellis Employer Brand Magazine The Boys

James Guilford joins me in the sound booth to discuss this very relevant topic. In a time of pandemic, racism and sexism, it is abundantly clear that people are no longer willing to tolerate toxic behaviours for a paycheck. James has a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with organizations with toxic cultures and has even been known to work with a bunch of clowns. In this episode, James and I discuss: What is workplace bullying and why does it exist? The consequences of a toxic work environment Why you will lose your top talent and Male privilege. Connect with James Resources: The Happiness Advantage

Mandisa Diggs joins me in the sound booth to close out 2020. In this episode she shares: Her HR origin story Why she believes that DEI is a movement and not a moment Points from her article: I am NOT OK: A Grief Stricken Confession from a D&I Professional Mandisa shows an admirable strength and vulnerability in this episode that will make you look at DEI in a different light and hopefully give you a new appreciation for what we do in HR. Resources: How to be an Antiracist Inclusive conversations Black Fatigue The Inclusion Paradox How to be an Inclusive Leader HR Girlfriends Cornell University 1:1 with Mandisa

How self-aware are you? As HR professionals, we are conscious of giving to others but how do we take care of ourselves, so that we can continue to be of service to others? In the Soundbooth with me to discuss this and more is author and speaker Eliot Kelly. Eliot is recognized as a Serial Entrepreneur, and has been featured on CNN, BBC Three’s Be Your Own Boss, and an extensive list of magazines and articles. His four books have been translated into over 7 languages and are sold in 29 countries, recently being shortlisted for Best Self-Help and Best Advice Books 2019 by The Author Academy. In this episode we discuss: Dealing with loss and burnout as an HR Professional Feeding your why Humanizing the interview process during Covid-19 Eliot had lots of information to share. Be sure to connect with Eliot and to check out his books. https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliotkelly/ Eliot Kelly TV Eliot Kelly books

Aura Telman is one of my nearest and dearest of friends. She is one of the kindest and gentle people I have ever met and it was a pleasure to have this conversation with her. She is the Founder of the now rebranded Aura Telman Consulting formerly Huresources Consulting. In this episode, Aura and I talk about: Holistic HR Authentic Inclusion The Be Human Hour Her HR origin story is going to blow you away and she also shares her true passion in life, and be sure to check out her new Leadership Spirit Quiz at the top of her website using the link below. Connect with Aura Website: https://www.auratelman.com/ Resources: Brene Brown https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748

Over the last year, I have had the awesome privilege of getting to know Tracie Sponenberg. Tracie is smart, humble, and very knowledgable in the HR space. I have learned that we have many things in common and our biggest commonality is that we are both introverts. Despite this, we are able to build relationships, champion for the people in our organizations, network and speak publicly. As a result of all that we do, we both have had occasions where people speak in disbelief that we are introverts. In this episode, Tracie and I discuss: Networking as an introvert Tracie's HR origin story The power of building your HR Community What HR really is Connect with Tracie Resources The Memo HR On Purpose HR Rising How to Be an Antiracist HR Social Hour Not the HR Lady

The amazing Yonica Squires joins me in the sound booth to discuss why it is important to find the right tech for your business. Yonica is passionate about ensuring that companies have the right tech and that there is a smooth transition into utilizing the systems purchased. Yonica is determined to break the stigma of being a black woman in tech and it is a firm belief in herself and having faith in the process, that she continues to persevere in the field. In this episode we discuss: Why it is important to be curious about HR Tech Why you cannot throw tech at your problems Mental health apps yay or nay? Quote "the problem is the solution" Connect with Yonica Orbis Human Capital Resources: Hack recruiting Down to Earth Subscribe to her YouTube Channel

Meighan Newhouse is a powerhouse! She is smart, funny and an amazing advocate for people-first cultures. In this episode, Meighan shares: Her HR Origin Story and claims that she is #newtohr. What the future of work looks like. Why she struggles with change. What she has learned about her white privilege. We also connect on why rocking the boat matters and how we can do this is a positive way. Connect with Meighan Resources Indistractable How to be an Anti-racist Born A Crime

As leaders, you want to ensure that you are getting the best out of your team and that does not happen with rigid processes and procedures. Research shows that teams thrive when they understand the organization's strategy, where they fit in the big picture and finally they need to know that they belong. My guest Marjorie Wharton is a Transition Specialist, Host of LinkedIn Local Barbados, and legend in her own right. In this episode, Marjorie and I discuss why coaching matters, why we need to move beyond managing a bum in a seat, and how her company Breakthrough Performance Coaching can help your organization to thrive. Connect with Marjorie Resources: Abundance Now - Lisa Nichols The Code of the Extraordinary Mind - Vishen Lakhiani Mind Valley Talks

In this episode, we answer the question of how you can make that transition from your current career into HR. My guest in this episode made a transition from the pulpit to HR and I believe that he has some great advice on how to make the transition. Brian Bachand is the Founder & CEO of evolution evolution but he started his working career as a priest in a small parish, transitioned to the Vatican, decided to pivot, and enter the world of work. How do you articulate to potential employers why you want to be in HR after being a priest? Brian shares some tips on how to articulate your dialogue in interviews, restructuring your resume, and putting that winning formula together to transition to the career of your dreams. Connect with Brian Resources: The Monk Who Sold his Ferarri

Tiffany Jones not only connects people to jobs but she connects mentees to mentors and so much more. When I first met Tiffany, I was amazed at how much she loves recruitment and that she was intentional about putting the right people in the right jobs for the right organizations. She is the Managing Director of The Job Connect, the company she passionately calls "her baby" which she started in 2018 after seeing a message from a frustrated job seeker on social media who was ready to end it all. Tiffany is one of the most kind-hearted and giving people I have ever met and she does it without expecting anything in return. Her focus and dedication to her side hustle while working a steady nine to five with a very demanding role is nothing short of impressive to see in someone so young. I expect to see even more amazing things from Tiffany in the future as she is definitely a young entrepreneur to look out for. In this episode, Tiffany shares the joys and struggles of her journey, what keeps her up at night, and clears up what she believes is one of the biggest misconceptions people have about HR Professionals. Connect with Tiffany: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-jones-b44174135/ https://www.thejobconnect.co/ Tiffany's resource corner: Recruiting 101 Sincere apologies for the sound quality in this episode.

Dr. Tana M. Session joins me on this episode to share her thoughts on Organizational Development. I am a huge fan of Dr. Session, she is an organizational development strategist, author, speaker, and in 2017, she was recognized by Forbes.com as a top business leader speaking out about D&I. We are both products of the amazing Cher Jones and so we spend a few moments talking about how awesome Cher truly is. In this episode we discuss: Why you should have a mentor that pushes you to be the best. How to get your start in HR. The top 3 people you need to know in your organization to help you understand the business of the business Dr. Session's LinkedIn Live show "HR in the News" What is Organizational Development? and much, much more. Be sure to follow Dr. Session and learn more from her. We hope you enjoy this episode. Connect with Dr. Session https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtanamsession/ https://www.tanamsession.com/ https://www.tanamsession.com/products

Wendy Dailey is an awesome Mum, avid blogger, Cohost of the HR Social Hour & HR Wonder Woman podcast shows, and she loves talent acquisition. In this episode, Wendy and I talk about: Navigating your career in talent acquisition. White privilege Why she does not interview people that are not a part of the #hrsocialhour community. The challenges of talent acquisition in the medical profession. Wendy and I had a great time talking about all of these things and many more and we hope that you enjoy this episode. Connect with Wendy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyrhdailey/ https://hrsocialhourpodcast.podbean.com/ https://hrsocialhourpodcast.podbean.com/e/hrsocialhour-wonder-women-episode-1-wendy-anne-talk-to-margaret-spence/ Wendy's recommendations: https://www.amazon.com/You-Want-Talk-About-Race/dp/1580056776

Jon Thurmond joins me in the sound booth this week and we talk about his passion for recruitment and why he believes it is connected to Marketing. Jon has a wealth of knowledge to share including his experience in union negotiations and we have a blast as he shares some of his stories. Jon is a fellow podcaster and co-hosts the #hrsocialhour with Wendy Dailey who will be in our next episode. Join Jon and me for this thought-provoking discussion which also includes his thoughts on: Why you need people in your life that will challenge you Why you should not be in HR because you "love people" Why you should start a podcast His love for comics and more... You can connect with Jon on Twitter and LinkedIn and be sure to join the HR Social Hour community on Twitter. Jon Thurmond HR Social Hour Jon's recommendations include: Punk Rock HR Hostile Work Environment

Charlene Pedro, Founder and Chief Engagement Officer of Conventus Consultinc joins me in the sound booth for this episode. When is the right time to step away from the business and start your own firm? Should HR Pro's even consider consulting? Charlene shares her story and is very vulnerable in doing so, she shares her challenges and triumphs and why she is optimistic about the future. Conventus Consultinc is a human resource company with one simple mission-helping organizations and people grow. Conventus Consultinc helps organizations address their people and performance challenges. They design and execute customized human resource solutions to drive organizational and personal performance and growth. https://www.conventusconsultinc.com/about.html https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlenepedro/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/conventus-consultinc/

Joining me in the sound booth for this episode is Sana' Rasul who is the Chief Girlfriend at HR Girlfriends LLC. One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do, so the song goes. HR Girlfriends is a community that ensures that you are never alone and Sana' explains how the network and portal work and extends an open invitation for you to join the community. Sana' shares her story, why the community exists, how it works and what is next for HR Girlfriends. Connect with Sana' and join the community today, using these links: https://hrgirlfriends.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanarasul/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/hr-girlfriends-llc/

Vivian Acquah joins me in the Sound Booth this week to talk about why she felt the need to champion for workplace wellness and how questions from her son forced her to create a virtual summit that she has dubbed the Netflix of DEI. There is vulnerability in spades in the episode. Vivian bares her soul on a bad workplace experience that almost caused her to take her life and why she never wants her son or anyone else to go through what she went through. A strong DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) mission within the workplace is one of the most important pillars for business success and employee wellness. The Amplify DEI 2020 Summit will feature 60+ guest speakers who will be: imparting knowledge on what successful DEI is; sharing experiences highlighting why DEI is important; providing evidence on why DEI needs to be a part of the DNA of any company. Implementing successful DEI should not be treated like a one night stand or as a checklist. It’s a long term program and a never-ending commitment to making the workplace a safe and prosperous place for anyone and everyone. Click on the link to register today: http://bit.ly/ampdeievent

In this episode, Francis Wade of the CaribHR Forum joins me to discuss why he and his beautiful wife saw the need to form this online community and their upcoming virtual conference. Francis believes that now is the time for HR to put on their own mask to develop themselves to be of true value to their organizations. The CaribeHR virtual conference takes place from September 17 - 19, 2020 and we hope that you will register and join us to see 40+ speakers coming together to discuss pertinent topics relating to the development and growth of the HR community. Please also take this opportunity to join the CaribHR Forum today and network with HR professionals throughout the Caribbean. You can register here: https://gumroad.com/a/738915443/GRAaK Individual access: https://gumroad.com/a/738915443/WKIol Multiple access: https://gumroad.com/a/738915443/zUACa

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Emma El-Karout from One Circle an online HR consulting platform. Emma gives us the tea on why she created One Circle, how it works, and how you can get involved. Emma is an amazing and warm person and we had such good fun talking about how HR professionals can consult using her portal. If you are currently unemployed in the HR space and looking for new ways to develop and grow, One Circle is just what you have been looking for. Join the community today https://www.onecirclehr.com/.

Joining me for this episode is my dear friend and mentor through my Agile HR journey, the amazing Natal Dank. Natal has the most infectious bubbly personality you will ever come accross and is the exact person you need to bring energy to such a topic. Natal has a passion for helping leaders, organizations and brands build awesome places to work, where talented people want to be. She has worked with organizations both great and small to embrace the Agile mindset, redefine their culture and co-create healthy, happy and financially successful working environments. So just what is this Agile mindset and why must we as HR start to embrace it? Join Natal and myself on this episode to learn more.

Joining me in the Sound Booth on this episode is Anthony Vaughn fellow podcaster and host of the E1B2 (Employees 1st Business 2nd) podcast and we are talking about the highs and lows of Employee Experience. What does this phrase mean and how can HR professionals ensure that they are creating authentic experiences for the people their organizations with the collaboration of leadership. Anthony is also a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for helping others succeed through purposeful collaborations and we hope you enjoy this episode.

The multitalented Rochelle James joins me in the Sound Booth this week to talk about her HR origin story, recruitment, and writing her first HR book on recruiting called "Best Fit". Rochelle is an advocate for recruiting using LinkedIn, using practical scenarios in the interview process and she is the brainchild behind the Caribbean Society for HR Professionals (CSHRP).

Bill Banham the Co-Founder of Innovate Work, joins me in this episode to talk about the event series that is fast sweeping the world and heading to the Caribbean. Bill talks about what it takes to create an HR magazine while sharing his story of how he developed his passion for the HR function. Innovate Work takes place on July 30th 2020 and you can feel free to use this link to register https://innovatework.co/caribbean-july-30-2020/

Joining me in the Sound Booth this episode is Lucy Adams. Lucy is the CEO of Disruptive HR based in the UK and she has a wealth of experience in the HR field which has led her on this new journey to disrupt the way we as HR professionals practice HR in our organizations. Lucy shares her story with me and gives some sage advice on how we can bring HR into the 21st century and beyond. I also encourage everyone to check out her book Disruptive HR on Amazon.

In this episode, I sound off with Steve Browne, HR Guru and author of the book HR On Purpose. We are talking about how HR can be reignited, by becoming more visible in the organization, finding new purpose in our role. What opportunities are open to our profession as a result of Covid-19 and what #hrcommunity means to him.

In this episode, I Sound Off with Simmone L. Bowe from the Bahamas on the topic of Sexual Harassment in the workplace. What is Sexual Harassment? Does it only happen to women? Can it happen in the HR space? How do we help employees who have been harassed? What can HR professionals do to improve the experience an employee has when they go through the grievance process? Simmone shares her personal experience of being sexually harassed and how she came out on the other side as well as what she is doing to create a safe space for employees to engage with her and how we can learn from her.

This episode I sound off with Dessalen Wood who is the Chief People Officer at Thought Exchange. Dessalen and I talk about her experience working 100% remotely while leading the people experience in her organization, what keeps her up at night and how Thought Exchange can benefit your organization.

Joining me in the Sound Booth this week is Enrique Rubio of Hacking HR. In this episode, we discuss how he came up with the concept for Hacking HR, where this movement is to date, and where it is heading in the future. Come and learn how Enrique got into HR and what he believes is one of the biggest misconceptions people have about HR that he wants to set the record straight on. #hrsoundoff #letssoundoff #hackinghr #futureofwork

In this episode, I talk to Madison Butler about the special ingredients to recruiting right. Madison is the VP of People & Culture at Sourced Craft Cocktails. She is a huge advocate for building inclusive organizational cultures and creating a highly engaged workforce. On this edition in the Sound Booth, we hear the "Blue Haired Recruiter" talk about how she got into HR, how she feels about recruiting with purpose, what she believes is the biggest misconception that people have about HR and how she plans to keep on making an impact in the HR space. 

What is the Gig Economy and what are the chances of this being the way forward for companies coming out of COVID-19? Here to discuss this topic with me in the sound booth is Dr. Rochelle Haynes. Dr. Haynes is very passionate about this subject and brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the fore. HR professionals, need to engage in discussions that lead to recruiting talent for the smooth and effective operations of companies. Coming out of this pandemic one of those conversations will surround, does everyone need to go back to the office, and if not which jobs can continue to work from home or anywhere in the world? In addition, what positions can you now consider recruiting for outside of your country and benefit from the immediate expertise of a candidate you would have once dismissed? Join Rochelle and me in the sound booth for this engaging episode.

In this episode, I talk to Debra Corey, Co-author of the book "Build It: The Rebel Playbook for World Class Employee Engagement". Join us as Debra shares her story of how she got into HR, why it is important to think outside of the box when engaging employees, the misconception about HR that bothers her the most, and what she is up to next. Welcome to the rebellution.

In this episode, Jennifer McClure visits the sound booth and we discuss DisruptHR. The speaker event series that she started with her friend Chris Ostoich in 2013 to engage HR and business professionals in her home town of Cincinnati. What started as a potentially one-off event to fill a need for professionals in their home town, has exploded into a global rebelution. What inspired them to create this event? What is the format? How global is it? Jennifer answers these questions and more as we sound off in this disruptive episode. Want to learn more about DisruptHR go to www.dirsupthr.co

2020 has gotten off to a very rocky start. Everywhere we turn we are bombarded by news reports, WhatsApp messages, e-mails and other forms of social media messaging as it relates to COVID-19. Businesses have been forced to lay off, reduce salaries and find other ways to keep their day to day going or shut down altogether. Families are reduced to waiting on government grants and other contributions to keep things going and at the heart of all of what is happening are the HR professionals who are working non-stop to process paperwork, give consoling messages and work with leadership on damage control. This podcast focuses on positive ways to get through each day, despite the difficult times we are going through.

In this episode, I talk to Joanna Robinson on the topic of digital upskilling and reskilling. As we think of the future of work and the skills that will be required for the future of work which is now, how do we engage our employees to learn and grow? How do we challenge them to think about reskilling when the possibility of their current role becoming obsolete is in sight? Managing technology and data has changed dramatically and Joanna is going to walk us through how we can manage these changes and coach our people to shape and grow with the organization.

In this episode, I sound off with Ron Johnson who is the Co-Founder of Blueprint Creative Inc. a branding agency in Barbados. we talk about this formula that he has created that sees the marriage between branding and HR and why organizations should want to include HR in their branding strategy meetings. We also sound off on company culture, employee engagement, Disrupthr Barbados and a misconception about HR that bothers us both, So listen now as we sound off.

In this episode of HR Sound Off, I speak to the amazing Katrina Collier about her book "The Robot-Proof Recruiter" and the importance of keeping the "human" in the recruitment process despite the increasing use of AI. We talk about DisruptHR and as always misconceptions about the HR profession that need to be put right. Katrina is a native Australian based in the UK and we talk about the impact the Australian bush fires have had on everyone. Should you wish to donate to the recovery of this beautiful country and it's wildlife, you can click on the links below to learn more. https://www.wires.org.au/ https://www.redcross.org.au/campaigns/disaster-relief-and-recovery-donate

In this episode, I talk to the very passionate Ms. Jolene king of 246 King Consulting on the topic of mental health in the workplace. The numbers are in from numerous reports around the world and they all say that mental health needs to be a higher concern on the agenda for employers. What can we as HR practitioners do to help remove the stigma and increase awareness? Jolene and I sound off on this and more.

In this episode, I explore the world of HR transformation with Perry Timms. Why does HR need to transform? What are we missing and how can we close the gap to give organizations what they require while achieving self-fulfillment? What in the world is an HR Hackathon? This episode will disrupt you in a great way.

In this episode, I sit down with Katrina Sam to talk about the recent digital transformation that she and her team at the Caribbean Development Bank are undergoing to streamline their HR processes and procedures. Join us as we sound off on the highs and lows of her journey.

According to statistics there are more women in HR than men. Why is that and what can we do to draw more men to the profession? Joining me to sound off on this topic is Shane Howell.

In this episode I talk to the very talented Rishita Jones about why HR needs to become more Agile. Known for working in the tech space Agile has become the new way to bring teams together to create products over a shorter and faster time, but can this really work for HR? Join Rishita and I as we sound off on this topic. Connect with Rishita on LinkedIn NRG HR Agile People Principles

In this introduction, I explain why I created this podcast and what you can look forward to listening to in the many episodes to come.