Workforce Unscripted

Our returning guests are back! Shiara Ramos Fernandez brings the latest Q1 labour market stats and trends, while John Cappelli provides the real-world employer perspective. In this episode, they uncover the surprises, highlight the biggest gaps between candidate expectations and employer needs, and share practical takeaways for business leaders. If you want to understand what’s really happening in Canada’s workforce and how to plan for what’s coming next, this episode is for you.

Mental health is no longer a side conversation at work. It is central to how we perform, grow, and sustain our careers.In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa are joined by Maurice Wery, Global Wellbeing Manager, for an honest discussion on burnout, boundaries, and the importance of protecting your well-being for long-term success.Maurice shares practical insights on how to manage pressure, maintain balance, and continue growing professionally without compromising your health. This conversation also challenges the idea that career success and well-being are at odds, offering a more sustainable and human approach to work.Whether you are feeling stretched, looking to reset, or simply want to build healthier habits, this episode is a reminder that you do not have to choose between doing well and being well.

Returning to work after caregiving is not about starting over, it’s about starting from a place of strength, resilience, and experience.In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa are joined by Michelle VanSluytman and Ashley Rauscher for an honest and encouraging conversation about what it really looks like to re-enter the workforce after time spent caregiving.Together, they explore the mental hurdles many returners face, the confidence it takes to step back in, and the often-overlooked skills caregiving builds along the way from adaptability and leadership to problem-solving, empathy, and resilience. They also share practical advice for creating a strong re-entry plan and insights on how employers and recruiters can better support caregivers returning to work.Whether you’re planning your next step or supporting someone on their journey back, this episode is a reminder that caregiving brings real, valuable experience and that those strengths absolutely belong in the workplace.

Work is about more than tasks and deadlines — it’s also about connection.In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa are joined by Vanessa Duarte, Director of EmpowerWork Solutions at Adecco Canada, to explore the powerful role workplace friendships play in engagement, confidence, and long-term career growth.From navigating your first job to building meaningful relationships in remote or hybrid environments, Vanessa shares honest insights on why connection at work isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s essential. Together, they discuss how the right relationships can support professional development, foster belonging, and help people thrive throughout their careers.Whether you’re new to the workforce, adjusting to a new role, or simply looking to build stronger connections at work, this episode is a reminder that the relationships you form along the way can shape your experience — and your future.

AI. Automation. Economic uncertainty. If it feels like job security is constantly under threat, you’re not alone.In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, we’re talking about how to deal with employment uncertainty in a world full of disruption and fear-driven headlines. Joined by Tao Qiu, Country President of The Adecco Group Canada, we explore what’s really changing in the labour market, what’s being overstated, and how workers can build resilience without burning themselves out.This conversation covers both the practical and emotional sides of uncertainty, from skill-building and adaptability to managing anxiety and staying grounded when the future feels unclear. If you’re feeling uneasy about what comes next in your career, this episode is for you.

Leadership isn’t just about performance... it’s about people.In this powerful episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa sit down with Joyce Russell, President of The US Foundation, to explore what it truly means to lead with joy, generosity, and grit.Drawing from an extraordinary career journey spanning business leadership and philanthropy, Joyce reflects on the human qualities that define great leaders - empathy, resilience, purpose, and the commitment to lifting others along the way. She shares personal stories about the leaders who shaped her, the lessons she learned through transition, and what “putting the cherry on top” means when it comes to creating lasting impact.From navigating change to balancing heart and results, this episode offers thoughtful insights for emerging and experienced leaders alike. It’s a reminder that the most meaningful leadership legacies are built not only on outcomes, but on how we show up for others.

Starting your first “real” job is a major milestone - and often a challenging transition. Beyond the excitement, many new graduates quickly realize that workplace expectations, unspoken norms, and day-to-day realities differ greatly from life in school.In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa are joined by Mariana Gomez, former Digital Marketing Strategist at Adecco Canada, to share the insights many professionals wish they had in their first 90 days. From navigating imposter syndrome and workplace dynamics to understanding how to set yourself up for long-term success, this conversation offers practical, honest guidance for early-career professionals.Thoughtful, reassuring, and grounded in real experience, this episode serves as a roadmap for new graduates looking to begin their careers with confidence and clarity.

AI is transforming recruiting - but is it creating opportunity or risk? On this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa sit down with Ray Chaaya, HR VP and Head of Talent & Employee Experience at Zurich, to explore how AI and automation are reshaping the hiring landscape.Ray shares his insights on the risks of bias in AI-driven recruiting, practical steps companies can take to ensure fairness, and how organizations can build inclusive, future-ready workforces. From the challenges of automation to the promise of responsible AI, this episode provides Canadian employers with actionable strategies to harness innovation without compromising equity.Whether you’re a recruiter, HR leader, or simply curious about the future of work, this conversation offers a clear, human-centred perspective on AI, talent, and DEI in 2026.

New year, new opportunities! ✨ Got an interview coming up? Don’t stress — we’ve got you covered.On this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Heather, a top recruiter, shares insider advice on how to prep, stand out, and leave a lasting impression — without sounding rehearsed.Learn what hiring managers really care about, the questions that impress, and the signs an interview went well. Bonus: tips to calm those nerves before you walk in the door!Listen now.

🎄✨ ‘Tis the season to celebrate the people who make work… work!In this special holiday episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa take a pause from the hustle to share gratitude, reflection, and a little holiday fun. From the unsung heroes in our workplaces to clients and job seekers, it’s all about acknowledging the people who make a difference every day.Get tips for truly disconnecting, surviving those awkward Zoom holiday parties, and entering the new year refreshed, inspired, and ready to go.Tune in and spread some cheer — because work (and life!) is better when we celebrate together.Listen now.

We’re welcoming a truly special guest — and our very own leader — to Workforce Unscripted.In this episode, Christine and Melissa sit down with Tanya Cerniuk, Country Head of Adecco Canada, for her first-ever appearance on the show. Known for her people-first leadership style and her commitment to developing talent at every stage, Tanya brings both depth and humanity to the conversation.Together, they explore the power of mentorship across generations — how experienced workers pass on wisdom, how younger workers spark fresh ideas, and how real growth happens when both sides stay open, curious, and connected. Tanya shares meaningful stories, memorable lessons, and a grounded perspective on building genuine relationships that last.If you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or a fresh way to think about mentorship, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Listen now.

We’re closing out 2025 with a deep dive into Canada’s labour market - the good, the surprising, and the downright chaotic.In this quarter’s Workforce Watch, we’re joined by Shiara Ramos Fernandez, Marketing Research Analyst and John Cappelli, VP of Onsite Managed Services, Adecco Canada. Together, they break down the biggest workforce shifts of the year, from regional job gains to the rise in part-time work, youth employment trends, sector shakeups, and the macro events that shaped the year.Shiara shares the latest data from Adecco’s Monthly Jobs Report, while John brings nearly 30 years of staffing experience to translate those insights into real-world strategies employers can act on.Whether you’re planning headcount, building teams, or navigating a tight talent market, this episode gives you a clear snapshot of where we are now and where we’re heading as we enter 2026.

Remote work has changed everything - but is it living up to the hype? Vanessa Duarte, Director of TAG Academy, has the inside scoop.On this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Christine and Melissa sit down with Vanessa to explore the real impact of remote, hybrid, and in-office work on careers, culture, and growth. From busting common myths to uncovering surprising trends, Vanessa brings her expertise to help listeners make sense of the new world of work — whether you’re thriving in sweats or craving the office buzz.Tune in: The Rise of the Couch-Based Career.

What makes people stay (and thrive) at work? In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, we sit down with Marla Goddard, Director, Talent and Employee Relations at The Adecco Group, to explore how purpose-driven leadership and authentic culture are at the heart of employee retention.From creating meaningful connections to avoiding common leadership pitfalls, Marla shares what she’s learned about building workplaces where people feel valued, engaged, and inspired to grow.Whether you’re leading a team or shaping HR strategy, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about what truly keeps talent around.

This Thanksgiving, we’re serving up more than turkey. 🦃We’re grateful for our listeners who tune into Workforce Unscripted each week and for the chance to share insights that make navigating the world of work a little easier.This week, we’re joined by Heather Oldenziel to talk about how AI is reshaping resumes and job applications and what tools like Adecco’s AI Resume Builder mean for candidates and employers alike.Between the feast and family time, take a moment to catch up on Resumes That Win in 2025. It’s food for thought you won’t want to miss.

Staffing agencies: what are they? This week on Workforce Unscripted, Andrea Mancini, Adecco Canada's VP of Sales, exposes the biggest myths about recruitment partners and reveals the surprising truths about how outsourcing hiring can save time, money, and headaches. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to partner with a staffing agency, this one’s for you. Tune in now!

Retirement isn’t just an ending, it’s the start of a new chapter. In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, we sit down with Doug Hamlyn, VP of Finance at Adecco Canada (and now retiree) as he reflects on a remarkable career in leadership and finance and shares how he’s preparing for life after corporate. From practical financial planning tips to lessons on career growth and work-life balance, Doug offers wisdom for professionals at every stage - whether you’re just starting out, mid-career, or looking ahead to retirement.

Fake recruiters, shady job offers, and too-good-to-be-true postings, job scams are everywhere, and they’re getting smarter. In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, Nicolette Mueller, VP of Legal and Associate General Counsel at Adecco Canada, breaks down the red flags every job seeker and employer should know. Learn how to protect yourself, spot the warning signs, and avoid falling victim to hiring scams that could cost more than just your time.Don’t miss this one it could save you or someone you know from falling victim.

The world of work is evolving faster than ever and Canadian employers can’t afford to fall behind. In this episode of Workforce Unscripted, hosts Christine and Melissa sit down with Shiara Ramos Fernandez, Adecco Canada’s Market Research Analyst, to unpack the latest hiring trends shaping the labour market. From the rise of remote work to growing expectations around salary transparency, Shiara brings fresh data and quarterly insights to help businesses stay competitive, informed, and future-ready.

In our very first episode, Christine and Melissa pull back the curtain on Workforce Unscripted. You’ll hear who they are, what drives them, and why Adecco Canada is diving headfirst into the podcast world. Expect honest insights, real conversations, and zero corporate jargon. TL;DR: this podcast won’t sound like another corporate webinar.