HR Mixtape: Human Resources and Business Leadership

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Lily Zheng, a FAIR strategist and consultant at Zheng Consulting. They delve into the pressing topic of fairness in the workplace, emphasizing the need for measurable DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) practices that drive real outcomes. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments that enhance employee experience and foster psychological safety. Lily's insights challenge traditional approaches, urging HR leaders to focus on problem-solving and collective decision-making to address systemic issues. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and measure the right metrics that truly reflect employee experiences. Discover why psychological safety is essential for fostering good conflict and open communication. Explore strategies for reframing DEI initiatives as critical business investments rather than mere compliance efforts. Hit “Play” to gain actionable insights that can transform your workplace culture! Guest(s): Lily Zheng, FAIR Strategist and Consultant, Zheng Consulting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Loretta Stagnitto, President and Executive Leadership Coach at Loretta Stagnito Leadership Associates. They delve into the evolving landscape of leadership development, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership and emotional intelligence in today’s workplace. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership amidst the rapid changes brought on by technology and AI. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to define authentic leadership through self-awareness and empathy. Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership and team dynamics. Explore strategies for leveraging feedback to enhance leadership effectiveness and foster a culture of growth. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership! Guest(s): Loretta Stagnitto, President and Executive Leadership Coach, Loretta Stagnito Leadership Associates

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Marty Dubin, a clinical psychologist and author of "Blindspotting." They delve into the concept of cognitive blind spots in leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in enhancing employee experience and fostering inclusive leadership. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of remote work and the need for emotional intelligence in decision-making. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your strengths and recognize when they become blind spots. Discover why vulnerability in leadership can enhance team dynamics and psychological safety. Explore strategies for effective meta-communication to improve workplace interactions. Hit “Play” to uncover how small behavioral tweaks can lead to significant leadership improvements! Guest(s): Dr. Marty Dubin, Clinical Psychologist and Author, Blindspotting.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Alex Seiler, founder and chief people officer of Alex Seiler LLC. They delve into the complexities of employee experience and inclusive leadership, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and adaptability in today’s evolving workplace. Alex shares insights on how organizations can foster a culture that embraces change while honoring what employees may be losing, making this conversation particularly timely as companies navigate transformations in the age of AI and shifting workforce dynamics. Learn how to cultivate curiosity within your organization to enhance employee engagement. Discover why understanding loss is crucial for effective change management. Explore strategies for redefining talent development beyond traditional career paths. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR practices! Guest(s): Alex Seiler, Chief People Officer, Alex Seiler LLC

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Jennifer Dall, a grief-informed neurodivergent specialist and founder of ADHD Holistically. They delve into the complexities of ADHD in adults, particularly in the workplace, highlighting the importance of understanding neurodiversity for inclusive leadership and employee experience. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the need for neuro-inclusive environments to support diverse talent and enhance overall productivity. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and debunk common myths about ADHD in adults. Discover why emotional regulation and executive function challenges significantly impact workplace performance. Explore strategies for creating supportive policies that foster neurodiversity in your organization. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and employee support! Guest(s): Dr. Jennifer Dall, Grief-Informed Neurodivergent Specialist, ADHD Holistically

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Laura Maffucci, Head of HR at Crackle PR. They delve into the transformative role of AI in HR, discussing how organizations can leverage technology to enhance employee experience and adapt to a rapidly changing labor market. This conversation is particularly timely as HR leaders face the challenge of integrating AI while maintaining critical thinking and human connection in their processes. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify and nurture AI champions within your organization to drive innovation. Discover why curiosity and learning agility are essential skills for HR professionals in today's tech-driven landscape. Explore strategies for implementing effective talent assessment programs that prioritize skills over traditional job descriptions. Hit “Play” to gain insights on navigating the future of HR with AI! Guest(s): Laura Maffucci, Head of HR, Crackle PR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Ron Monteiro, CPA and CMA, former finance leader at YaYa Foods Corp, and author of "Love Mondays." They delve into the importance of employee experience and how to cultivate joy in the workplace, especially in a post-COVID world where many struggle with work-life balance. Ron shares his journey from corporate burnout to finding purpose and joy in his work, offering practical, measurable steps to help others do the same. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee engagement and well-being amidst evolving workplace dynamics. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to set effective boundaries to reclaim your time and energy. Discover why accountability partners can enhance your journey toward workplace joy. Explore strategies for creating a culture where every day feels fulfilling, not just Fridays. Hit “Play” to uncover how you can start loving Mondays again! Guest(s): Ron Monteiro, Author, Love Mondays

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Celeste Warren, Vice President of the Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence at Merck. They delve into the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, emphasizing that inclusion is a shared responsibility across all levels of an organization. This conversation is particularly timely as companies navigate the complexities of employee experience and strive for inclusive leadership in a rapidly changing environment. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to foster a culture of inclusion by engaging all employees in DEI initiatives. Discover why aligning employee resource groups with business goals can drive organizational change. Explore strategies for measuring the impact of DEI efforts beyond traditional metrics. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on integrating DEI into your organization’s fabric! Guest(s): Celeste Warren, Vice President, Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, Merck

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Justin Clifford, CEO of Bereave, to discuss the critical yet often overlooked topic of supporting employees through grief and loss. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and holistic wellbeing, especially in light of recent events that have highlighted the need for compassionate workplace policies. Justin shares insights on bridging the gap between personal loss and workplace support, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and empathetic leadership. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to create a comprehensive plan for supporting employees during times of grief. Discover why traditional bereavement policies often fall short and how to improve them. Explore strategies for training managers in empathy and effective communication during difficult times. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on enhancing your organization’s approach to grief support! Guest(s): Justin Clifford, CEO, Bereave

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Rachel Shaw, President and Principal Consultant of Shaw HR Consulting, to discuss the evolving landscape of reasonable accommodations under the ADA. This conversation is particularly timely as it reflects the significant shifts in workplace dynamics since the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of inclusive leadership and creative problem-solving in HR practices. Rachel shares insights on fostering a culture that values employee experience and the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing HR processes. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to approach ADA accommodations with a mindset focused on finding solutions. Discover why the interactive process is essential for effective communication and employee support. Explore strategies for leveraging technology to streamline accommodation requests and improve efficiency. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR! Guest(s): Rachel Shaw, President and Principal Consultant, Shaw HR Consulting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Kevin Wright, a Senior Racial Equity Facilitator and Consultant at the Center for Equity and Inclusion. They dive into the critical topic of financial literacy in the workplace, discussing the significant gaps in access to financial education and the role employers can play in bridging these gaps. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and well-being, especially in light of evolving financial systems and the need for inclusive leadership. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to assess your organization's current financial literacy offerings and identify gaps. Discover why expanding financial education resources can enhance employee retention and productivity. Explore strategies for leveraging existing partnerships to provide valuable financial literacy training. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your workplace culture and empower your employees! Guest(s): Dr. Kevin Wright, Senior Racial Equity Facilitator and Consultant, Center for Equity and Inclusion

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Leah Marone, a psychotherapist and corporate mental wellness consultant, to discuss the critical issue of burnout in HR professionals. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee experience and mental wellness, especially in high-stress environments. Leah shares insights from her new book, "Serial Fixer," emphasizing the need for HR professionals to break free from the habit of solving others' problems and to establish healthier boundaries. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify your role in conversations and avoid the urge to fix others' problems. Discover why setting boundaries is essential for maintaining mental wellness in HR. Explore strategies for fostering a culture of self-awareness and resilience within your team. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR and enhance your well-being! Guest(s): Leah Marone, Psychotherapist and Corporate Mental Wellness Consultant Order Leah's book here: Serial Fixer: Break Free from the Habit of Solving Other People's Problems

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