HR Mixtape

Understanding Accommodations: Navigating the Complexities of the ADA with Lorrie Coffey

Curious about the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on job accommodations?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Lorrie Coffey, an expert in HR and ADA compliance. They discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding accommodations in the workplace.

Three key takeaways from the episode are:

1. The fear and complexity surrounding ADA compliance: Employers often feel overwhelmed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) due to its complexity and the potential consequences of non-compliance.
2. Myths and misconceptions about ADA: There are many myths surrounding ADA, such as the belief that employers cannot terminate employees with disabilities or that accommodations are always costly. In reality, accommodations can be low-cost or even free, and termination is possible if an individual is not qualified for the role.
3. The importance of understanding essential functions and qualified individuals: Employers need to accurately determine the essential functions of a role and assess whether an individual is qualified for the position. It is crucial to engage in an interactive dialogue with employees to find effective accommodations and avoid potential legal issues.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into ADA compliance and offers practical advice for HR professionals.

Guest(s): Lorrie Coffey, Talent Management Consultant, Horizon Point Consulting, Inc.

The Future of Connection and Engagement in the Workplace with Woodrie Burich

Diving into the depths of connection and engagement in the workplace as we discover how organizations and individuals can truly make a difference.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Woodrie Burich, an expert in setting boundaries and cultivating intentional conversations in the workplace. They discuss the challenges of the hybrid work environment and how water cooler chats have been replaced by virtual interactions. Woodry emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and creating cultures of permission to avoid burnout and promote well-being.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. The need for intentional conversations and cultivating deeper connections in virtual workspaces.
2. The importance of setting boundaries and creating cultures of permission to avoid overworking and burnout.
3. The impact of multitasking on cognitive and emotional control, and the need for focus and attention in the workplace.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for navigating the evolving dynamics of connection and engagement in the workplace, especially in the context of remote work and technological advancements.

Guest(s): Woodrie Burich, CEO and Founder, The Integration Group

Unleashing Team Potential: The Renaissance of Good Teamwork with Mark Cruth

Discover the secrets to transforming your team into a cohesive and dynamic force.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Mark Cruth, an expert in team collaboration and employee engagement. Mark, who works at Atlassian, shares insights on modern work practices and how they influence employee engagement. He emphasizes the importance of alignment and inclusion within teams, as well as the power of working agreements to improve collaboration. Mark also discusses the transformation of a team he coached and highlights the need for continuous improvement.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Alignment and inclusion are crucial for employee engagement. Teams need to feel connected and understand the purpose of their work.
2. Working agreements are a powerful tool for fostering collaboration. They make implicit assumptions explicit and provide clarity on how teams should work together.
3. HR professionals should focus on experimentation and customization when it comes to employee engagement. Instead of trying to solve the entire problem at once, they should empower teams to find solutions that work for them.

To learn more about these strategies and gain insights into boosting employee engagement and collaboration, listen to the full episode of the HR Mixtape podcast with Shari Simpson and guest Mark Cruth.

Guest(s): Mark Cruth, Modern Work Coach, Atlassian

The Role of Mindfulness and Philosophy in HR Practices with Paul LaLonde

Are you curious about the connection between philosophy and HR?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Paul LaLonde, a VP of People and Culture, about the intersection of philosophy and HR. They discuss how philosophy can play a role in HR practices and how it can contribute to building a positive company culture.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Philosophy as the art of thinking turned into action to make oneself a better person.
2. Building a culture of virtue, where acting courageously, moderately, judiciously, and with wisdom is encouraged.
3. The importance of focusing on respect in team dynamics and how it can prevent burnout.

If you're interested in exploring the connection between philosophy and HR, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for creating a healthier work environment.

Guest(s): Paul A. LaLonde, Vice President of People and Culture, CEDA

Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence: A Tactical Blueprint with Lynn Fairweather

Gain insights into creating a culturally sensitive and inclusive environment when addressing domestic violence.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Lynn Fairweather, a domestic violence response and prevention expert with over 30 years of experience. Lynn shares a pivotal moment in her life that solidified her dedication to this work and discusses the misconceptions that HR professionals often have when addressing domestic violence issues.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. The importance of a victim-centered strategy: HR professionals should listen to the needs and experiences of domestic violence victims, allowing them to guide their own process and offering support tailored to their specific situation.
2. The need for cultural sensitivity: HR professionals should avoid making assumptions about how individuals from diverse cultures will respond to domestic violence. Instead, they should ask questions, incorporate lived experiences, and tailor their approach to each individual's unique needs.
3. Best practices for responding to domestic violence disclosures: HR professionals should create a safe and confidential environment for employees to disclose domestic violence, state their observations rather than making assumptions, offer support and resources, and respect the individual's choices and decisions.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and practical guidance for HR professionals in addressing domestic violence in the workplace.

Guest(s): Lynn Fairweather, President, Presage Consulting and Training, LLC

The Role of Employer Associations in the Business Community with Kevin Robins

Let’s dive into the world of employer associations and how they can transform your business.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Kevin Robins, the leader of the Mid-Atlantic Employers Association (MEA). They discuss the role and benefits of employer associations for businesses. Kevin shares that employer associations are non-profit organizations that provide resources and support to businesses, particularly midsize organizations that may not have the capacity to handle all HR and employment issues on their own.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Employer associations offer personalized advice and consultation to help businesses navigate complex HR and employment issues.
2. They provide training and development programs to help businesses develop their talent and improve leadership skills.
3. Employer associations can save businesses time and money by providing access to experts and resources, reducing the need for extensive research or costly legal services.

Overall, this episode highlights the value of employer associations in supporting businesses and helping them thrive in a competitive market.

Guest(s): Kevin Robins, CEO, MidAtlantic Employers' Association

Tackling Juicy HR Questions with Kyra Matkovich

Are you ready to level up and learn from uncomfortable experiences?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson is joined by guest Kyra Matkovich to tackle some juicy HR questions sourced from the internet. They discuss topics such as addressing discrepancies in employee information, renaming holiday events for inclusivity, dealing with condescending behavior from a C-suite leader, handling an employee with a drinking problem, and navigating a challenging relationship with an internal candidate.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. When addressing discrepancies in employee information, it's important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and offer support rather than make assumptions or judgments.
2. Inclusive language and renaming events can help create a more welcoming and inclusive workplace environment, especially when it comes to holiday celebrations.
3. Dealing with challenging behavior from a C-suite leader requires open and honest communication, setting clear expectations, and documenting any inappropriate incidents. It's crucial to prioritize the well-being of employees and hold leaders accountable for their actions.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for HR professionals facing various HR challenges in the workplace.

Guest(s): Kyra Matkovich, Principal Human Resources Business Partner, Exact Sciences

Major Legal Changes Impacting HR Professionals in 2024 with Louis Lessig

Are you prepared for the legal changes impacting HR in 2024?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Louis Lessig, an expert in employment law. They discuss major legal changes that HR professionals should anticipate in 2024, including updates to overtime regulations. They also delve into the importance of adapting workplace policies to address discrimination and harassment, considering the complexities of individuality and free speech. Lewis emphasizes the need for HR professionals to upskill themselves in areas such as AI and compliance.

In terms of state-level changes, they highlight the new law in New Jersey that requires closer collaboration between organizations and staffing agencies when it comes to temporary employees.

Three key takeaways from the episode are:

1. HR professionals should prepare for upcoming legal changes, particularly in overtime regulations.
2. Workplace policies need to address discrimination and harassment while balancing individuality and free speech.
3. HR professionals should upskill themselves in areas like AI and compliance to stay ahead of evolving trends.

Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Partner, Brown & Connery, LLP