HR Mixtape

The Role of HR in Shaping Effective Leadership Transitions with Meg Crosby

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

SHRM25 for HR Leaders: Top Tips, Hidden Gems, and President Biden’s Keynote with Shari Simpson

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson takes you behind the scenes of SHRM25—the world’s largest HR conference—happening June 29 to July 2 in San Diego. Drawing from over 20 years in the HR profession and countless conferences, Shari delivers a real-talk survival guide for navigating SHRM25 like a pro.

From how to prep for President Biden’s keynote to what to pack (and what to leave behind), Shari shares practical advice, first-timer strategies, and unexpected tips that will help you get the most out of your time in San Diego. Whether you’re attending for the first time or the tenth, this episode will help you show up prepared, confident, and ready to make the most of every minute.

Plus, learn how you can participate in Paylocity’s GIVES event to help pack 10,000 sensory break kits for United Way San Diego and eight local YMCA locations.

Listener Takeaways:
 • Discover what to pack, what to wear, and how to avoid rookie mistakes at SHRM25
 • Learn how to build a smart, flexible daily schedule with room for recharge
 • Get security tips for attending President Joe Biden’s keynote session
 • Hear Shari’s favorite networking hacks and hidden session gems
 

Hit “Play” and take 20 minutes to feel fully prepared for SHRM25—because showing up ready is the first step to making it unforgettable.

Guest(s): Solo episode featuring Shari Simpson, Host of HR Mixtape

Connecting the Dots: The Strategic Role of Internal Communication in Business with Alejandra Ramirez

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, an internal communication strategist at Ready Cultures. They delve into the critical role of internal communication in enhancing employee experience and driving organizational culture. This conversation is timely as companies increasingly recognize the importance of strategic communication in fostering trust, boosting productivity, and facilitating sustainable cultural change.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to bridge the gap between strategy and action through effective internal communication.

• Discover why understanding your audience is essential for crafting impactful messages.

• Explore strategies for measuring communication effectiveness, even with limited resources.

Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your internal communication approach and elevate your HR practices!

Guest: Alejandra Ramirez, Internal Communication Strategist, Ready Cultures

Lessons from the Warehouse: Rethinking HR for Deskless Workers with Tracie Sponeberg

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Tracy Sponenberg, founder and chief people officer at Tracy Sponenberg LLC. They dive into the often-overlooked topic of deskless or frontline workers, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities in enhancing employee experience for this critical group. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of inclusive leadership and effective communication strategies, especially in a post-pandemic world where employee engagement is paramount.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to implement a listening tour to build trust with frontline employees.

• Discover why flexibility in roles and schedules is essential for enhancing employee experience.

• Explore strategies for leveraging technology, like AI and mobile solutions, to support deskless workers.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on transforming your HR approach for frontline teams!

Guest(s): Tracy Sponenberg, Chief People Officer, Tracy Sponenberg LLC

Tactical HR to Strategic Leadership: Defining Values and Integrity in the Workplace with Jamy Conrad

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR at TrustRadius. They delve into the evolving role of HR professionals, focusing on the critical transition from tactical support to strategic partnership in the workplace. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the integration of AI in HR practices. Jamy shares her unique insights on fostering a culture of belonging and leveraging soft skills as power skills to drive business outcomes.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to balance employee advocacy with organizational goals for mutual benefit.

• Discover why developing an HR mission and values statement is essential for internal branding.

• Explore strategies for embracing AI as a tool to enhance HR efficiency and effectiveness.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach!

Guest(s): Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR, TrustRadius

The Sole Trap: How Successful Managers Sabotage Their Teams with Sabina Nawaz

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Sabina Nawaz, an elite executive coach at Nawaz Consulting, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of effective management, particularly for high-performing leaders who often overlook the importance of feedback and psychological safety within their teams. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership in today's dynamic work environment.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to cultivate a culture of feedback that empowers team members to share their insights openly.

• Discover why speaking less can enhance your leadership effectiveness and foster better communication.

• Explore strategies for creating psychological safety, enabling your team to engage in tough conversations without fear.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your management approach!

Guest(s): Sabina Nawaz, Executive Coach, Nawaz Consulting, LLC

Building Dream Teams: The Power of Positivity with Dr. Joey Faucette

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Joey Faucette, an executive coach and culture architect at Work Positive. They dive into the concept of "dream teams" in today's hybrid work environment, emphasizing the importance of positivity and active listening in fostering a successful workplace culture. Dr. Faucette shares practical strategies for leaders to cultivate a strengths-based approach, highlighting the significance of gratitude and collaboration.

Key Takeaways:

1. Active Listening: Learn how to enhance team dynamics by truly listening to your colleagues, especially in a hybrid setting.
2. Positivity vs. Toxic Positivity: Understand the difference and how to maintain a realistic yet optimistic workplace culture.
3. Empowering Teams: Discover how to shift from providing answers to asking powerful questions that encourage team collaboration and innovation.

Tune in for insights that can transform your leadership style and workplace culture!

Guest(s): Dr. Joey Faucette, Founder & President, Work Positive

Navigating Belonging Through Personal Connection with Dan Berger

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dan Berger, founder and CEO of Assemble Hospitality Group, to discuss the critical concept of workplace belonging. Dan shares his personal journey of adoption and the impact of belonging traumas on his life, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual experiences in the workplace. He introduces the idea of belonging archetypes and outlines six paths to foster belonging both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding your belonging archetype can help you navigate relationships and foster a sense of belonging in the workplace.
2. Employers should create spaces for employees to build connections outside of work to enhance workplace culture.
3. Measuring belonging goes beyond traditional metrics; focusing on feelings of acceptance and value is essential for a thriving workplace.

Tune in to explore how to cultivate a culture of belonging in your organization!

Guest(s): Dan Berger, Founder and CEO, Assemble Hospitality Group