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Whether you’re buried in paperwork or just looking for a break from the grind, we’ve got your back with HR Mixtape. Tune in each week to hear thought-provoking interviews with industry leaders, compliance tips, coffee chats with human resources trendsetters, and the latest HR-related news. It’s like nothing else out there: it’s the perfect mix of practical advice and stories that just hit different so that work doesn’t have to feel like...well...work!

Meet the Host:
Shari Simpson, MBA, MHRM, SHRM-SCP
16+ years of experience as an HR professional, Shari Simpson brings a unique, veteran perspective to a range of topics, from training and development to talent acquisition and employee relations – many of which she dives into with other industry experts. When she’s not lending her voice there, she’s finding other ways to elevate HR, payroll, and business professionals in and outside of her day job by collaborating with other leaders and speaking at local and national conferences. Shari also co-leads a women’s employee resource group called SHEroes.
Find her on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter
Join the Conversation: thehrmixtape.com
Episodes

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Leah Stiegler, a principal employment attorney at Woods Rogers. Leah shares her expertise on navigating toxic workplaces, discussing the legal implications of a toxic work environment and how HR professionals can identify early warning signs. She emphasizes the importance of transparency in termination discussions and the need for consistent documentation to protect organizations from potential lawsuits.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the legal definition of a toxic workplace and the signs of a potentially actionable environment.
- Learn best practices for handling terminations, including the importance of clear communication and documentation.
- Discover strategies for managing "brilliant jerks" in the workplace while maintaining a positive company culture.
Tune in for practical advice and insights that can help transform your workplace dynamics!
Guest(s): Leah Stiegler, Principal Employment Attorney at Woods Rogers

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Caroline Brookfield, a veterinarian, researcher, and keynote speaker specializing in creative leadership and embracing ambiguity. With over 25 years of experience, Caroline shares insights on how leaders can foster creativity within their teams, emphasizing the importance of psychological safety and the need to redefine creativity beyond traditional artistic boundaries.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Creativity: Creativity isn't just about art; it encompasses problem-solving and innovative thinking in everyday tasks.
- Embracing Ambiguity: Leaders must cultivate an environment where team members can sit with uncertainty, which can lead to greater creativity and resilience.
- Practical Strategies: Caroline introduces the "DANCE" model, highlighting habits like daydreaming and curiosity that can enhance creative thinking in the workplace.
Tune in to discover how to inspire innovation and navigate change effectively!
Guest(s): Dr. Carolline Brookfield, Author, Keynote Speaker https://carolinebrookfield.com/

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Andy Garrett, a strategic growth consultant and clinical psychologist at AG Thrive. They delve into the concept of authentic identity and its crucial role in personal and professional growth. Dr. Garrett emphasizes the importance of aligning individual values with organizational goals to foster a thriving workplace culture.
Key Takeaways:
- Authenticity as Leadership: Discover why authenticity is the ultimate leadership skill and how it enhances team dynamics.
- True North Blueprint: Learn about the True North Blueprint and how defining personal and organizational values can reduce burnout and increase engagement.
- Courageous Conversations: Gain insights on how to address inauthenticity in leadership through compassionate and constructive dialogue.
Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking insights that can transform your approach to HR and leadership development!
Guest(s): Dr. Andy Garrett, Psy D., Strategic Growth Consultant, Coach and Clinical Psychologist, AG Thrive Psychological Consultation, Inc.

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Jared Rosenthal, founder and CEO of Health Street. Jared shares his unconventional journey from healthcare CEO to entrepreneur, highlighting his innovative approach to mobile DNA testing and the evolution of his tech platform. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing technology, fostering a culture of innovation, and navigating challenges during uncertain times like COVID-19.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace Technology: Small businesses can significantly improve efficiency by adopting scalable tech solutions rather than relying on outdated systems.
- Foster Innovation: Encouraging a culture where employees feel empowered to take risks and innovate can lead to substantial growth and adaptability.
- Transparent Leadership: Open communication during crises builds trust and helps employees understand the company's direction and their role in it.
Tune in for valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of small businesses!
Guest(s): Jared Rosenthal, Founder & CEO, Health Street

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Luis Garcia, president and co-founder of PETE, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on workforce training and learning development. With over 25 years of experience in digital education and ed tech, Luis shares his journey and insights into how AI can enhance personalized learning experiences and improve evaluation methods in the workplace.
Key Takeaways:
- AI in Learning: Discover how AI can create adaptive learning models that personalize training experiences and evaluate learning outcomes effectively.
- Challenges in Hiring: Understand the complexities of modern hiring processes and how AI can complicate rather than simplify recruitment.
- Getting Started with AI: Learn practical tools and strategies for individuals and businesses to embrace AI technology in their professional lives.
Tune in to explore how AI is reshaping the future of work and education!
Guest(s): Luis Garcia, President and CoFounder, PETE

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Paul Butler, Client Partner at Newleaf Training and Development. They delve into the critical importance of financial acumen for HR professionals, emphasizing how understanding financial metrics can enhance decision-making and drive business success. Paul shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the need for HR to partner with finance to maximize organizational performance.
Key Takeaways:
- Financial literacy is essential for HR professionals to align human resources with business results.
- Building relationships with finance colleagues can create a safe space for HR to ask questions and improve their financial understanding.
- Implementing zero-based budgeting encourages a more strategic approach to financial planning and resource allocation.
Tune in to learn how HR can leverage financial insights to foster a more effective workplace!
Guest(s): Paul Butler, Client Partner, Newleaf Training and Development
Book: Business Financial Intelligence: A mindset and skillset few people have and all organizations need.

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Siri Chilazi, a senior researcher at the Women in Public Policy program at Harvard Kennedy School. They discuss the importance of data-driven approaches to advancing gender equality in the workplace and explore practical strategies for creating fairer work environments. Siri shares insights from her book, "Make Work Fair," emphasizing how organizational design can influence equity and inclusion.
Key Takeaways:
- Data-Driven Design: Learn how small changes in workplace design, like table shapes and resume formats, can significantly impact fairness and inclusivity.
- Flexibility in Work: Discover the benefits of hybrid work models and how they can enhance job satisfaction, especially for caregivers.
- Building Fairness: Understand that fairness should be integrated into everyday practices rather than treated as a one-off program.
Tune in for actionable insights that can transform your HR practices!
Guest(s): Siri Chilazi, Senior Researcher at the Women in Public Policy program, Harvard Kennedy School
Book: Make Work Fair: Data-Driven Design for Real Results

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes David Dilger, director and co-founder of Edge Legal, to discuss the critical topic of psychological safety in the workplace. David shares his extensive experience in employment law and HR, emphasizing the legal risks associated with employees feeling unsafe to speak up.
Listeners will learn about the importance of fostering a people-first approach in management, the biological factors influencing managers' fear of confrontation, and effective strategies for addressing performance issues while maintaining trust.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the legal risks of psychological safety, including workers' compensation and anti-discrimination claims.
- Practical strategies for managers to balance empathy and accountability in performance conversations.
- The significance of building trust within teams to enhance communication and overall workplace culture.
Tune in for valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR and management!
Guest(s): David Dilger, Director and Co-Founder, Edge Legal
Email: ddilger@edgelegal.com.au