HR Mixtape

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Anita Roach, founder of the Safe and Sound Workplace Alliance, to discuss the critical concept of trauma-informed workplaces. This timely conversation delves into how organizations can foster psychologically safe and equitable cultures, especially in light of increasing employee trauma due to societal pressures and crises. Anita shares unique insights on trauma awareness, the impact of workplace dynamics on employee experience, and the importance of inclusive leadership in mitigating trauma responses. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and address trauma weaponizing in the workplace. Discover why fostering a trauma-informed culture can enhance employee retention and productivity. Explore strategies for implementing clear behavioral guidelines to create a safe work environment. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your organization’s approach to employee well-being! Guest(s): Anita Roach, Founder, Safe and Sound Workplace Alliance

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn's first Chief HR Officer and founder of Cadigan Talent Ventures. They delve into the evolving landscape of the modern workforce, focusing on the shift from traditional job security to career security. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations face rapid changes driven by digital transformation and the need for agile talent strategies. Steve emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, making this episode a must-listen for HR professionals navigating today's challenges. Learn how to shift your focus from employee retention to career development. Discover why fostering a culture of learning can enhance employee loyalty. Explore strategies for building partnerships with educational institutions to future-proof your talent pipeline. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your HR approach! Guest(s): Steve Cadigan, Chief HR Officer, Cadigan Talent Ventures

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Margaret Andrews, author of Manage Yourself to Lead Others and a leadership educator at Harvard University. They delve into the critical role of self-awareness in effective leadership, especially in today's fast-paced, hybrid work environments. This conversation is timely as organizations navigate complexities like AI integration and the evolving employee experience, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership and personal growth. Listener Takeaways: Learn how understanding your values can guide decision-making under pressure. Discover why self-awareness is essential for fostering strong interpersonal skills in leadership. Explore strategies for creating a culture of open communication and feedback within teams. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your leadership approach! Guest(s): Margaret Andrews, Author, MyLo Center

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dave Garrison, co-founder of Garrison Growth, to discuss the critical role of leadership in fostering a culturally intelligent and collaborative workplace. With a wealth of experience as a CEO and board member, Dave shares insights on how leaders can inspire their teams to engage fully and create an environment of psychological safety. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the evolving employee experience landscape, emphasizing the importance of purpose-driven leadership and inclusive practices. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to cultivate psychological safety by prioritizing human connection over tasks. Discover why aligning on a compelling purpose can enhance employee engagement and retention. Explore strategies for effective feedback that reinforces trust and encourages open dialogue. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your leadership approach and improve team dynamics! Guest(s): Dave Garrison, Co-founder, Garrison Growth

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Collin Williams, founder and chairman of New Era ADR, to explore the critical role of transparency in conflict resolution within organizations. This conversation is timely as many companies grapple with fostering a positive employee experience while managing risks associated with traditional HR practices. Collin emphasizes that viewing conflict as navigable rather than fearsome can transform workplace culture, making this discussion both unique and insightful for HR leaders. Listener Takeaways: Learn how transparency can significantly reduce workplace conflict and build trust. Discover why rigid rules can stifle creativity and how flexible policies can enhance employee engagement. Explore strategies for implementing effective mediation and arbitration processes to resolve disputes amicably. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can reshape your approach to HR! Guest(s): Collin Williams, Founder and Chairman, New Era ADR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Scott Tillema, corporate trainer, retired SWAT hostage negotiator, and co-founder of the Negotiations Collective. Scott draws from his experience as an FBI-trained negotiator to share how HR professionals can use proven negotiation and communication techniques to manage high-stakes conversations with confidence. Listener Takeaways: Why listening is your most powerful negotiation tool as an HR leader. How to use emotional intelligence to build trust, even in tough conversations. Strategies for staying grounded when negotiations get emotional. Why silence can be one of the most effective tools in HR conversations. Guest(s): Scott Tillema, Keynote Speaker | Corporate trainer | Retired SWAT Hostage Negotiator | Founder, Negotiations Collective

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kelly Bunting, a labor and employment attorney at Greenberg Traurig LLP. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of employment law, particularly focusing on compliance issues surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, hybrid work dynamics, and the implications of recent legal changes. This discussion is timely as organizations navigate the complexities of creating an inclusive workplace while adhering to new regulations. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively adapt DEI policies to foster a genuine workplace culture. Discover why documentation is crucial for HR compliance and risk management. Explore strategies for managing employee requests for remote work under the ADA. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you stay ahead in the ever-changing HR landscape! Guest(s): Kelly Bunting, Labor and Employment Attorney, Greenberg Traurig LLP

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Danielle Dinkelman, co-founder and CEO of Advanced Corporate Wellness. They delve into the critical role of wellness coaching in enhancing employee experience and combating burnout, a timely topic as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Danielle shares her personal journey into wellness coaching and highlights how companies can invest in their employees' health to improve retention and productivity. Learn how wellness coaching can bridge the gap between information and application for employees. Discover why investing in employee well-being is not just altruistic but a smart business strategy. Explore strategies for creating a psychologically safe environment that fosters open communication and stress management. Hit “Play” to gain insights that could transform your organization’s approach to employee wellness! Guest(s): Danielle Dinkelman, Co-founder and CEO, Advanced Corporate Wellness

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership for the Society of Human Resource Management. They delve into the pressing issue of working caregivers, a topic that has gained urgency as over 50 million individuals balance professional responsibilities with caregiving for children, adults with chronic conditions, and the elderly. This conversation is particularly insightful as it highlights the evolving landscape of employee experience and the need for inclusive leadership in supporting caregivers, especially in light of the ongoing shifts in workforce demographics. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify the unique needs of caregivers within your organization. Discover why flexibility in workplace policies can enhance productivity and retention. Explore strategies for embedding a culture of support that benefits all employees. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on how to better support working caregivers in your organization! Guest(s): James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership, Society of Human Resource Management

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist at AIHR. They delve into the integration of AI in HR practices, emphasizing the importance of managing the narrative around AI to alleviate fears and enhance employee experience. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of AI adoption while striving for inclusive leadership and data-driven decision-making. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively introduce AI into your talent strategies without overwhelming your team. Discover why understanding the ethical implications of AI is crucial for fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Explore strategies for enhancing data literacy within HR to leverage analytics for better decision-making. Hit “Play” to gain insights on transforming HR practices with AI! Guest(s): Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist, AIHR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. David Cohen, founder and senior consultant of DS Cohen and Associates. They dive into the concept of agile leadership and its relevance in today’s evolving workplace, particularly in light of shifting employee expectations post-pandemic. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee experience and foster inclusive leadership while navigating the complexities of AI in HR. Listener Takeaways: Learn how aligning organizational values with hiring practices can boost employee retention and engagement. Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for modern leaders to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of learning from failure to drive innovation and growth. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and HR practices! Guest(s): Dr. David Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen and Associates

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Steve Yacovelli, owner and principal of Top Dog Learning Group, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of authentic allyship in the workplace, contrasting it with performative gestures often seen in organizations. This conversation is particularly timely as companies face increasing pressure to foster inclusive leadership and diverse cultures, especially with the rise of Gen Z in the workforce. Dr. Yacovelli shares insights on how organizations can genuinely support LGBTQ+ employees and the importance of aligning corporate values with actions. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and combat performative allyship in your organization. Discover why inclusive leadership is essential for employee experience and retention. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of accountability and respect in the workplace. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on creating a truly inclusive environment! Guest(s): Dr. Steve Yacovelli, Owner and Principal, Top Dog Learning Group, LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Louis Lessig, a Labor and Employment Litigator at Brown and Connery, LLP. They delve into the pressing legal risks that HR professionals often underestimate, including retaliation, intermittent leave, and the critical need for effective management training. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the evolving landscape of remote work policies, especially in light of AI's growing influence in HR. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to proactively address retaliation and its impact on organizational risk. Discover why effective management training is essential for mitigating legal issues. Explore strategies for developing comprehensive social media and remote work policies. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you enhance your HR practices and protect your organization! Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Labor and Employment Litigator, Brown and Connery, LLP

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer for the Society for Human Resource Management. They delve into the evolving landscape of HR competencies and the critical role of data analytics in shaping employee experience and inclusive leadership. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly leverage AI in HR to drive strategic transformation and enhance workforce readiness. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify competencies that are becoming obsolete and those that are essential for future HR success. Discover why integrating AI into HR practices can revolutionize talent management and employee engagement. Explore strategies for utilizing data analytics to inform decision-making and drive organizational change. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can elevate your HR practice! Guest(s): Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Society for Human Resource Management

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Nahed Khairallah, a global HR strategist and founder of Organized Chaos. They delve into the complexities of building effective HR departments in fast-growing startups, emphasizing the importance of a proactive, people-first approach. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the need for inclusive leadership and strategic HR practices to enhance employee experience and drive business success. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to balance structure and flexibility in HR to support rapid growth. Discover why psychological safety is crucial in fast-paced environments. Explore strategies for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the core of your organization from day one. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach and empower your organization! Guest(s): Nahed Khairallah, Global HR Strategist, Organized Chaos

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Leslie Vickrey, CEO of ClearEdge, to discuss the myths surrounding women's advancement in leadership. This timely conversation sheds light on the outdated beliefs that hinder women's progress in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of visibility, networking, and redefining success on their own terms. Leslie's insights into inclusive leadership and the need for strategic sponsorship make this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in enhancing the employee experience and fostering a diverse workplace. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to challenge the myth that women don't want top jobs due to family responsibilities. Discover why hard work alone isn't enough for career advancement and the importance of self-advocacy. Explore strategies for building a supportive network that empowers women in leadership roles. Hit "Play" to gain valuable insights and empower your journey in leadership! Guest(s): Leslie Vickrey, CEO, ClearEdge

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations at Paylocity. They dive into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a significant piece of legislation that impacts payroll, tax deductions, and employee benefits. This conversation is timely as employers navigate the complexities of compliance with new regulations, especially regarding paid family leave and tax deductions for overtime and tips. Kurt's insights provide clarity on how these changes will affect employee experience and organizational practices. Learn how the OBBBA affects tax deductions for overtime and tips. Discover why employers need to stay informed about compliance changes. Explore strategies for leveraging new benefits to enhance employee engagement. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that will help you adapt to the evolving HR landscape! Guest: Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations, Paylocity

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Michelle Sims, CEO of Yupro Placement, to explore the transformative power of skills-based hiring. As organizations increasingly prioritize inclusive leadership and equitable hiring practices, this conversation sheds light on the urgent need to move beyond traditional degree requirements. Michelle shares her journey and insights on how skills-first approaches can enhance employee experience and drive economic mobility for overlooked talent. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify the top skills needed for success in various roles. Discover why reframing interview questions can reduce bias and improve candidate assessment. Explore strategies for building partnerships with workforce development organizations to tap into nontraditional talent pools. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on redefining hiring practices for a more inclusive future! Guest(s): Michelle Sims, CEO, Yupro Placement

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Tiffany Castagno, CEO and founder of Sephir LLC, to discuss the importance of shaping a personal leadership brand in HR. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership. Tiffany emphasizes the need for authenticity, vulnerability, and curiosity in leadership, offering insights on how HR professionals can navigate their unique styles while fostering strong, inclusive teams. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your core values and align them with your leadership brand. Discover why vulnerability and curiosity are essential for building trust within teams. Explore strategies for effectively sharing your leadership journey on platforms like LinkedIn. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on enhancing your leadership presence in today’s evolving workplace! Guest(s): Tiffany Castagno, CEO and Founder, Sephir LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Meg Crosby, co-founder of PeopleCap Advisors and operating partner at SSM Partners. They delve into the critical first 90 days for new leaders, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding organizational culture during leadership transitions. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the integration of AI in HR, highlighting the need for inclusive leadership strategies. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to effectively support new leaders by prioritizing listening and relationship-building. Discover why understanding generational dynamics can enhance team cohesion and performance. Explore strategies for leveraging AI to shift focus from functional expertise to essential people management skills. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on leadership development and the evolving role of HR! Guest(s): Meg Crosby, Co-founder, PeopleCap Advisors