HR Mixtape

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

Wired to Become: Navigating Change and Finding Purpose with Dr. Britt Andreatta

Calling all managers! Learn how to support your employees' sense of purpose and unlock their full potential.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Dr. Britt Andreatta, CEO of Brain Aware Training, about the intersection of neuroscience, leadership, and purpose in the workplace. The conversation explores the importance of finding balance between happiness and purpose, how HR professionals can help employees unearth their sense of purpose, and the role of managers in encouraging employees to fulfill their potential.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Happiness and purpose are both important for employee well-being. While happiness focuses on immediate joy, purpose provides a deeper sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
2. HR professionals can support employees in discovering their purpose by making it a common conversation, asking about their sense of purpose during hiring and onboarding, and providing resources for self-reflection and exploration.
3. Managers play a crucial role in helping employees fulfill their potential by setting goals, pushing them out of their comfort zones, and removing roadblocks that hinder their growth. When employees feel supported in their purpose, they are more likely to be resilient, have better health, and stay with the company.

To learn more about the fascinating connection between neuroscience, leadership, and purpose, tune in to this insightful episode of the HR Mixtape podcast with Shari Simpson and guest Dr. Britt Andreatta.

Guest(s): Dr. Britt Andreatta, CEO, Brain Aware Training, Inc.

The Evolution of Workplace Investigations and Uncovering Hidden Signals with Lisa McConnell

Have you ever wondered what goes into conducting workplace investigations?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Lisa McConnell, an HR professional with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the evolution of workplace investigations and share insights on conducting effective investigations.

Three key takeaways from the episode are:

1. The importance of being open-minded and asking thorough questions during investigations.
2. The significance of recognizing and addressing union activity as a potential trigger for workplace issues.
3. The need for empathy and reassurance when dealing with sensitive investigations, such as those involving assault.

Overall, this episode provides valuable advice and strategies for HR professionals conducting workplace investigations.

Guest(s): Lisa McConnell, Certified EEO Investigator, McConnell Consulting Services

Closing the Gap: Bridging the Divide Between Young Professionals and Employers with Kamber Parker

It's amazing how much we can learn from the younger generation!

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Kamber Parker, founder of the YoPro Know. They discuss the gap between young professionals and employers and debunk some common misconceptions about Gen Z and Millennials in the workplace.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. The importance of embracing intergenerational communication to bridge the gap between different generations in the workplace.
2. The impact of AI on young professionals' roles and the need to train them in AI to ensure future success.
3. The significance of understanding young professionals' communication preferences and incorporating them into workplace communication strategies.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights for HR professionals on how to better engage and empower young professionals in the workplace.

Guest(s): Kamber Parker, Founder & CEO, The YoPro Know