The HR Sound Off Podcast Show

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: 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 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: 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