HR Bytes S5E4: Jay Polaki in conversation with Ann Osten

Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), sits down with Ann Osten, a seasoned HR professional with over 25 years of experience spanning nonprofits, for-profits, education, military environments, and consulting. Currently serving as the sole HR professional at Consortium — an 80-person organization operating across multiple states — Ann brings a grounded, practical perspective on navigating AI, automation, and the evolving world of HR as an HR team of one. Throughout the conversation, Ann shares candid insights on how to thoughtfully pilot AI without going "full bore," the importance of keeping the human element front and center, and her real-world approach to tackling the ever-changing landscape of leave and pay laws across multiple states. HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos — check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com. Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html. 🎙️ In This Episode: Ann's HR journey — from education and military environments to leading HR solo at a multi-state organization How to approach AI and automation strategically — pilot first, don't go full bore Keeping the "human" in human resources while leveraging digital tools AI as a "digital co-worker" for HR teams of one The future of AI in HR — a tool, not a replacement The challenge of multi-state leave and pay law compliance — and how AI can help Ann's advice: Be open, explore, and trust colleagues over salespeople 🔗 Reach Ann Osten on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-osten-phr-a0897719/ Ann's Connection Recommendation: Theresa Fesinstein — Founder of People Powered AI. A dynamic leader with great insight and practical advice for HR professionals navigating AI. Ann's Learning Recommendation: Strategic HR Leadership — available on Udemy. A practical series ideal for HR professionals looking to level up their strategic capabilities. Ann's HR Playlist Pick — 🎵 Geckos Grooves: "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley — Ann's happy song to keep HR pros grounded and positive through all the changes. Give it a listen on our Spotify playlist, Geckos' Grooves → https://open.spotify.com/show/7lijLCy4lnkCxrSg89uU4H?si=j8EktqZgSjC6hUJnYe7quQ   📲 Reach Jay Polaki on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/ 📲 Follow HR Bytes on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrgeckos/  ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@HRGeckos 🌐 Visit #HRBytes' Web Home: https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html Copyright @HRGeckos 2026