SpeakEasy HR

In this episode, we sit down with James "JON" Keel to tackle a challenge almost every professional faces but few openly admit—LinkedIn can feel like a grind. From inconsistent posting to low engagement and uncertainty around what actually works, the struggle is real. Jon breaks down why most people get stuck on LinkedIn and, more importantly, how to get unstuck. He shares practical strategies to simplify your approach, clarify your voice, and start showing up with purpose instead of pressure. This conversation dives into building authentic content, creating meaningful connections, and using LinkedIn as a tool for opportunity—not obligation.

We’re going LIVE from the 2026 HR Collaborative with fast-paced 15-minute conversations featuring forward-thinking HR and leadership voices. This morning edition delivers real-time insights from the event floor—quick hits, big ideas, and practical takeaways you can use right away. Morning LIVE Guest Lineup: Jessica Palatka Julie Doyle Andre Young Sharon DeLay Pete Schramm

We’re going LIVE from the 2026 HR Collaborative with a fast-paced lineup of 15-minute conversations featuring leading HR and leadership voices.This afternoon edition dives into the real challenges leaders are facing today—how to better engage employees, elevate leadership impact, navigate change, and align people strategy with business outcomes.Afternoon LIVE features 4 speakers:Davis Robinson opens with a fresh take on employee engagement, challenging organizations to rethink traditional approaches by putting the employee experience at the center—not the organization.Todd Bertsch follows with a leadership shift from “fixer” to “influencer,” focusing on how great leaders build trust and become people others genuinely want to follow.Sean Olson brings a practical framework for leading change, helping leaders “ignite their SPARK” by turning resistance into resilience in times of disruption and uncertainty. LIVE from HR Collaborative Together, these conversations explore engagement, leadership influence, change management, and workforce strategy—all through a highly practical, people-first lens.Short sessions. Big ideas. Real-world application.If you’re leading people, shaping culture, or driving performance, this is a lineup you won’t want to miss!

AI is everywhere—but making it work inside your organization is where most leaders get stuck. In this episode, Alex Meyer brings a practical, grounded perspective on how to move beyond the hype and actually implement AI in ways that create real business value. As Founder & Partner of Dualis Studio, Alex shares what he’s seeing across organizations—where AI efforts succeed, where they fall short, and why. We dig into:👉 How to align AI initiatives with real business outcomes👉 Gaining buy-in across leadership and teams👉 Avoiding common mistakes that stall progress👉 Moving from experimentation to execution with confidence This conversation is all about making AI useful, usable, and impactful—not just interesting.If you’re trying to figure out how AI fits into your organization in a meaningful way, this episode delivers real clarity. Find his newsletter here. https://dualisstudio.com/newsletter

AI may dominate today’s HR conversations, but David Turetsky believes the real challenge for HR in 2026 isn’t artificial intelligence — it’s HR data. Many organizations are eager to adopt AI tools, yet still struggle with the fundamentals like data quality, governance, and turning workforce data into meaningful insights. In this Top Shelf discussion, we explore why HR leaders must focus on building stronger data foundations before AI can truly deliver value, and how better people analytics and data-driven decision making will shape the future of HR. To learn more about the HR Channel: https://thehrchannel.tv/ Connect with David on LinkedIn or his work at HR Data Labs, https://hrdatalabs.com/

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR HR, I sit down with Mark Lane, a corporate communications and strategic marketing executive with over 20 years of experience helping organizations strengthen their messaging, brand reputation, and employee engagement. Mark also hosts the podcast Ghosted by the Machine, where he explores the growing disconnect between job seekers and today’s AI-driven hiring process. Together, we discuss why job searching feels so broken right now—from automated screening tools and candidate ghosting to the lack of communication many applicants experience. Mark shares insights on how organizations can improve the candidate experience by bringing more transparency, empathy, and human connection back into hiring. A great conversation for HR leaders, recruiters, and job seekers navigating today’s evolving hiring landscape.

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we talk with Meghan Hensley, Vice President at Beech Acres Parenting Center, about how organizations can move from a culture where employees are just surviving to one where they are truly thriving.With over 20 years of experience in HR, leadership, and organizational development, Meghan shares practical insights on building authentic leadership, creating real belonging, and shaping cultures where people feel connected, valued, and inspired to bring their best to work every day. If you care about building stronger leaders and workplaces where people can truly flourish, this conversation is packed with ideas you won’t want to miss.

n this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we turn up the heat on growth with our Top Shelf Topic: Ignite Your Spark: Choosing Growth Over Comfort in Times of Change featuring keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and mindset coach Todd Bertsch.Change is inevitable—but growth is a choice. Todd shares how individuals and leaders can move beyond comfort zones and embrace the opportunities that come with uncertainty. Drawing from his work as a Mental Fitness (PQ®) Coach, keynote speaker, and host of The BOLT Podcast, Todd explains how strengthening your mindset can help you navigate change with clarity, resilience, and purpose.In this energizing conversation, Todd discusses the power of mental fitness, why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills, and how creating safe spaces for honest conversations can unlock untapped potential in people and organizations. He also shares practical steps to help leaders and teams shift their mindset, reignite their passion, and pursue meaningful growth—both personally and professionally.If you’re feeling stuck, facing change, or looking to spark new energy in your life or leadership, this episode will challenge you to step beyond comfort and ignite the spark that drives transformation. ⚡ If today sparked something in you. Head to Todd's landing page to download the 30-Day Playbook and take the Spark assessment to see how lit your spark is. You’ll find everything you need to keep the momentum going. https://bit.ly/4s770vQ

Payroll isn’t just processing numbers — it’s building trust, culture, and stability inside your organization. In this episode, Tammy shares her powerful framework for elevating payroll from a back-office function to a strategic driver of success. From improving processes and system implementations to solving payroll challenges and mentoring the next generation of payroll pros, she makes the case for why payroll deserves a seat at the leadership table. If you’re ready to see payroll differently — and start doing it like a boss — this episode is for you. New book, "Payroll Like a Boss" drops April 28!

In this episode, we sit down with Thomas Hansen, CEO of AINIRO, a pioneer in AI chatbot solutions and intelligent web agents. With over 42 years of experience in software engineering, Thomas shares his deep insights into how AI can augment human work rather than replace it, and why this mindset is critical for the future of organizations. Thomas walks us through the practical ways AI can enhance productivity, improve decision-making, and foster creativity — all while keeping humans at the center of the workplace. He also discusses how his company’s customizable AI chatbots leverage LLMs, machine learning, and web-scraped data to engage visitors, increase conversions, and drive business growth. Beyond AI, Thomas reflects on his long career in software development, including his work with Azure DevOps, serverless computing, Docker, Kubernetes, low-code frameworks, and his groundbreaking contributions to declarative programming with Hyperlambda. From building critical enterprise software across industries like FinTech and Health, to creating automation tools for software development, Thomas shares lessons on innovation, adaptability, and designing technology that empowers people rather than replaces them. Whether you’re a leader, developer, or just curious about the future of AI at work, this episode provides actionable insights on how to embrace AI as a tool to augment human potential, not automate it away.

Many organizations are chasing bold outcomes with systems built for a different era—leading to burnout, broken collaboration, and rising delivery risk. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Colledge explains why these aren’t people problems, but system signals. We explore how neuro-inclusive performance infrastructure helps organizations adapt—designing ways of working that unlock diverse thinking, strengthen collaboration, and deliver impact without relying on heroics. To learn more about her work, go to https://www.lisacolledgeconsulting.com/

Great leadership isn’t about title—it’s about intentional action. In this episode of Top Shelf, I’m joined by Andre Young as he dives into three powerful leadership tools designed to elevate both your professional impact and personal fulfillment.Andre breaks down: The 5 Points of Your Day — Five key focus points to improve work/life harmony and help you live the life you want, both professionally and personally. The 5 Types of Leaders — Learn the five leadership styles, identify your own, and understand the strengths and potential challenges of each. The Leader’s Blueprint — Discover how you prefer to be approached, questioned, and challenged—and why sharing this with your team is a game-changer for trust and communication. This conversation is packed with practical insight, self-awareness, and actionable takeaways for leaders at every stage. If you’re looking to lead with clarity, intention, and impact, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. To learn more, go to https://www.youevolvingnow.com

In this episode, we sit down with Darryl Erby, a data-driven enterprise sales leader with an MBA in Data Analytics and more than a decade of experience helping AI and modern data stack companies drive real revenue growth.Darryl breaks down how job seekers can leverage free AI tools to level up every stage of the job search—from refining resumes and LinkedIn profiles to preparing for interviews, researching companies, and telling a compelling personal story. Drawing from his deep experience in enterprise sales, partnerships, and analytics, he shares practical, real-world strategies for standing out in a competitive, AI-driven market.We also dive into what today’s data-first companies are really looking for, how candidates can position themselves as builders—not just executors, and why understanding the modern data ecosystem (from Snowflake and Databricks to cloud security and analytics platforms) is becoming a must-have skill.This conversation is packed with actionable insights for professionals who want to work smarter, communicate their value more clearly, and approach their job search with confidence, clarity, and strategy.If you’re navigating a career transition, preparing for interviews, or curious how AI can become your personal career assistant—this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

AI is everywhere in HR right now—but is it actually solving the problems leaders care about most?In this episode of the SpeakEasy HR Podcast, I’m joined by Ben Eubanks to cut through the hype and get real about where technology helps, where it falls short, and why people challenges still require human leadership, clarity, and trust.We explore why organizations often look to AI as a shortcut for engagement, performance, and retention—and what gets missed when leaders try to automate what should be understood. Ben shares insights from years of research across HR, talent, and learning technologies, helping us reframe AI as a tool that supports better decisions, not a replacement for relationships, purpose, or accountability.This conversation is a must-listen for HR leaders and executives who want to use AI wisely—without losing the human edge that actually drives results.About the Guest:Ben Eubanks is a bestselling author, researcher, and award-winning speaker with more than 13 years of experience analyzing HR and talent technology trends. He speaks with 300+ vendors annually and has conducted research with tens of thousands of employers and workers, shaping insights featured in his books Artificial Intelligence for HR and Talent Scarcity. Ben is also a passionate educator, longtime HR volunteer, dad of five, and advocate for global workforce development through his support of a ministry in Guatemala. To learn more about his FREE summer school for HR professionals, visit hrsummerschool.org

In this episode of Top Shelf Topic, we sit down with Damon Clark, Founder of Talent Optimizers, to explore how organizations can build high-performing teams by leveraging data, behavioral science, and sustainable development strategies.Damon shares his insights on how data-driven approaches can help leaders strategically prioritize focus areas, monitor progress, and maximize ROI. He explains why traditional development initiatives often fail and how Talent Optimizers’ programs are designed for sustained impact, integrating learning into daily practices to ensure long-term results.Listeners will also learn about the power of science-backed development, combining behavioral science and neuroscience insights to enhance outcomes, and how these programs can now train at scale, extending beyond leadership to every level of the organization to foster a shared language and culture.Whether you’re an HR leader, manager, or executive, this episode offers actionable strategies for aligning talent, optimizing team performance, and driving organizational success with data-informed insights.Tune in to discover how to move from theory to practice and create teams that don’t just perform—but thrive. Check out the Free Talen Strategy Assessment offer! A $3000 value to SpeakEasy HR listeners. https://www.talentoptimizers.com/free-team-strategy-session

In this episode, I’m joined by Christie Engler, a passionate HR leader and champion of people-centric workplace culture, to explore why HR’s greatest advantage in 2026 won’t be technology — it will be humanity.With 20 years of hands-on HR experience across industries like manufacturing, construction, healthcare, hospitality, and nonprofit work, Christie brings real-world insight into what it truly takes to build strong teams and meaningful employee experiences. We talk about leading with intention, supporting people through change, and why putting employees first isn’t optional — it’s essential. Christie also shares her commitment to advancing the HR profession through mentoring, speaking, and her blog Living in the Gray, along with lessons learned from being a two-time small business owner — experience that gives her a deep appreciation for the realities leaders face every day. This conversation is honest, energizing, and forward-looking — a reminder that while tools and trends will evolve, HR’s human edge remains the differentiator.  Catch Christie on the upcoming HR Cruise! https://hrcruise.com/2026/Cruise2/index.cfm

We kick off 2026 with a timely conversation on career growth—and why it can no longer be owned by leaders or employees alone.I’m joined by Lisa Fain, CEO of the Center for Mentoring Excellence, keynote speaker, and leadership coach, to explore how mentoring, inclusion, and shared accountability create workplaces where people don’t just survive—but thrive. Lisa brings real-world experience from building D&I strategy, advising leaders, and helping organizations turn mentoring into a competitive advantage. This episode challenges outdated expectations and reframes career growth as a true partnership between organizations and employees—setting the tone for a smarter, more human approach to work in 2026. To learn more and connect with Lisa, https://linktr.ee/centerformentoringexcellence

Mike Wood from HR.com joins to discuss Talent Acquisition in our Top Shelf Topic: The 2026 TA Forecast: What Leaders Should Expect. Mike provides a forward-looking analysis of the talent acquisition landscape, highlighting emerging trends and the challenges HR leaders will face in 2026.The conversation explores strategies for attracting, engaging, and retaining top talent in a highly competitive market, including how to leverage technology, employer branding, and data-driven insights. Mike also offers practical advice on preparing your organization for shifting workforce expectations and navigating uncertainty in hiring and recruitment. This episode is a must-listen for HR professionals, talent acquisition leaders, and business executives who want to stay ahead of the curve, understand future workforce trends, and implement strategies that will drive long-term success in attracting and retaining top talent. Catch Mike on these podcasts: The Wrap: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7214056893361569792/  Totally Talent: https://www.hr.com/en/resources/podcasts/talent/

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving world of talent, leadership, and people development with Lilith Christiansen, Chief Consultant and Founder of HumanGenuity. Lilith brings years of expertise helping organizations reimagine how they onboard, engage, and continually grow their people.We unpack the concept of Everboarding—why the traditional “first 90 days” mindset is outdated, and how continuous development is becoming the new competitive advantage. Lilith shares insights on what Leadership 2.0 really looks like, how leaders can create cultures of ongoing learning, and what companies must do now to build workplaces where people thrive long-term.Whether you’re a leader, HR pro, or someone passionate about the future of work, this conversation offers fresh, practical ways to elevate your people strategy. As a special offering from Lilith, she a 30-minute Clarity & Momentum Session. Use the link: https://calendarbridge.com/book/human-genuity/speakeasyhr

I’m joined by Todd Cherches, CEO & Co-Founder of Big Blue Gumball, for an eye-opening conversation on the true power of visual thinking. Todd breaks down how visuals, metaphors, and simple sketches can transform the way leaders communicate, engage their teams, and bring complex ideas to life. We explore why visual tools stick, how they boost clarity and creativity, and how anyone—no artistic talent required—can use them to become a more effective and memorable leader.

In this episode, Jessica Noon joins us for a top-shelf conversation on what it really takes to build a workplace culture that thrives — and what leaders can do when it starts to fall apart. From intentional design to practical recovery strategies, Jessica shares her insights on aligning values, leadership, and everyday behavior to create a culture that truly works. Tune in for a dynamic discussion packed with real-world examples, actionable advice, and a few lessons learned the hard way. To get a free strategy call with Jessica, use the link below. https://calendly.com/daybreak-ideas/founder-strategy-sesh

SpeakEasy HR Hits the Road — Live from CincySHRM! We broadcasting straight from MadTree Brewing for a special live episode! I was joined by Melanie Booher, Engagement & Experience Officer at Talent Magnet Institute and Amazon Best-Selling Author, as we dive into what it really takes to build workplaces people love — from the inside out. Real talk. Real leaders. Real culture. To learn more about Melanie and her work at Talent Magnet Institute, visit www.talentmagnet.com

Tina-Marie Wohlfield is the founder and Chief People Strategist at TIMAWO, HR storyteller, author, and passionate champion of people-centered leadership.With 25+ years in HR, Tina-Marie will share insights on how leaders can move beyond metrics to bring humanity back into leadership, foster meaningful connections, and create HR partnerships that truly support their people. She’ll also highlight lessons from her book, Stop Collaborate and Listen, and her work with the HRUnite! community.This conversation is a must-listen for leaders, managers, and HR professionals who want to rethink success and prioritize people. To learn more about her work, visit www.timawo.com Future events! HRUnite! 2026 Conference https://hrunitemichigan.com/hrunite-conference HRUnite! Awards https://hrunitemichigan.com/awards

We've made it to our 50th episode!For this milestone episode, Pete Schramm joins me to explore the power of intentional relationships in career growth. We discuss how to build your own personal boardroom — a network of mentors, coaches, and peers who guide, challenge, and champion your success. Pete shares practical strategies for identifying the right people to include, nurturing those connections over time, and aligning your boardroom with your evolving career goals.It’s a conversation about connection, purpose, and how the right people can help you reach your next level. Find more about Pete at www.golattitude.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Casey Webster, CEO and Founder of My HR Extension, for a conversation on aligning business goals with HR strategies for 2026. Casey shares how leaders can start preparing now—by connecting their people strategy to long-term growth, fostering stronger engagement, and using data to guide smarter workforce decisions.Get ready for practical insights and forward-thinking ideas to help your HR strategy fuel your business success in 2026 and beyond.

Recording LIVE on Oct. 13, 2025 In this eye-opening conversation, we sat down with Matt Charney, Executive Editor at ERE Media & Media Bistro — one of the most respected voices in talent acquisition. Top Shelf Topic: Are Employers Acquiring Talent or Inventory? Matt shared sharp insights into the subtle ways hiring practices have slipped into a purely transactional mindset and why the words we use — talent vs. inventory — have a deeper impact than most leaders realize. Together, we explored: How data-driven recruiting has both helped and hurt the human side of hiring The cultural and leadership habits that either elevate people as unique talent or reduce them to “headcount” Metrics that truly measured talent value, not just time-to-fill Practical advice for job seekers who want to join organizations that invest in people, not just fill positions What AI, automation, and the gig economy have meant for the future of “talent-first” hiring Whether you were a business leader, recruiter, or job seeker, this episode challenged listeners to rethink how organizations define — and value — the people who power their success. To connect with Matt, visit https://mattcharney.com/.

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we welcome Steven Rothberg from CollegeRecruiter.com for a conversation that’s as timely as it is thought-provoking.Steven’s Top Shelf Topic dives into a question on every recruiter’s and graduate’s mind: How will artificial intelligence reshape early career opportunities?Together we explore:What kinds of entry-level roles are most likely to change—or even disappear—as AI adoption acceleratesWhen these shifts are expected to have the biggest impact on job seekers and employersWhere the most promising opportunities will emerge for the next generation of talentWhether you’re an HR leader, a hiring manager, or a student preparing to launch your career, Steven’s insights will help you anticipate the future—and position yourself (and your organization) to thrive.Tune in for a clear-eyed look at the future of early career work in the age of AI.

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we’re joined by the one and only William Tincup—editor, analyst, advisor, and the dynamic host of the WRKdefined podcast community.It’s an ask-me-anything conversation, and nothing is off limits:💡 The future of HR and talent strategy🤖 How AI is reshaping the workplace🎧 Insights on podcasting, audience-building, and authentic storytelling📈 His perspective on business trends and what leaders need to know nextWilliam brings a wealth of knowledge and candid insight, making this a must-listen for HR professionals, business leaders, and anyone curious about where work is headed.So pull up a seat in the speakeasy and join us for a fun, insightful conversation that’s equal parts wisdom and wit

Recorded live on September 15, 2025. In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we sat down with the founder of Monster.com—one of the most groundbreaking job boards in history—and now the visionary behind the newest platform, Boomband. With decades of experience shaping how people search for jobs and how employers find talent, he shares insights on the evolution of job boards, what’s changed in the hiring landscape, and where recruiting technology is headed next. We discussed: 1. The early days of Monster.com and lessons from building a category-defining platform.2. The biggest shifts in how candidates and employers connect today.3. What inspired the launch of Boomband and how it reimagines the job search experience.4. What HR leaders should be paying attention to as technology reshapes recruiting. We even discovered some of Jeff’s boldest marketing stunts from his days at Monster—including setting a world record for water-skiing behind a blimp. Don’t miss the full story in this episode! If you’ve ever posted a job, searched for one, or wondered what’s next in the talent marketplace, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Learn more about Boomband at https://boomband.com/

In this episode, we dive into the evolving world of work with guest John McCarthy, Founder & CEO at AGI Management. Together, we explore the new psychology of work—how shifting employee expectations, workplace culture, and leadership practices are reshaping the way people find meaning and motivation in their careers. Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, or employee looking to better understand the changing dynamics of work, this episode offers practical strategies and thought-provoking perspectives on building healthier, more human-centered organizations. To learn more about AGI Management, http://www.agi.jobs Check out this special "SpeakEasy " offer from John! https://agimanagement.com/retention-risk-snapshot?utm=speakeasyhr

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, I sat down with Bob Goodwin for an insightful conversation on The Four C’s for Career Success. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, Bob shared strategies that will inspire and equip you to reach the next level in your career.Whether you’re just starting your professional journey or looking to refine and strengthen your path, Bob delivered practical advice, actionable tips, and a few unexpected insights that will help you stand out and succeed.This is a must-listen for anyone ready to elevate their career—and themselves. Free offering from Bob - https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqduqqqD0qG9HsxIRuL-XG4Pcx9pf7skat

In this powerful episode of SpeakEasy HR, Tammy Castro joins us to explore what she calls The Great Trust Reset. We dive deep into how trust—once lost—can be relearned, rebuilt, and repaired in today’s workplace. From leadership accountability to rebuilding team dynamics, Tammy shares bold truths and actionable strategies to create cultures rooted in authenticity and integrity.Tune in to hear why trust isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation for thriving teams, resilient leadership, and long-term business success

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we welcome bourbon industry expert Ruth Moore, SVP of HR at Lofted Spirits, for a fascinating conversation that distills career growth into its own unique mash bill. With deep experience in both the spirits world and HR leadership, Ruth shares the perfect blend of insight, intention, and grit it takes to grow a successful career—no matter your industry. You’ll hear: 1. How your own “career mash bill” shapes your growth2. What HR can learn from the bourbon-making process3. Why the right mix of people, patience, and purpose leads to long-term success Whether you love bourbon or just want a fresh take on professional development, Ruth brings wisdom—and a little flavor—to this episode you won’t want to miss.

In this energizing episode of SpeakEasy HR, we’re joined by the dynamic team behind "But, First Coffee"—John and Jackye—for a feel-good, real-talk conversation about something every workplace needs more of: celebration. We dive into how leaders and teams can intentionally encourage, recognize, and celebrate the good times—big or small—and why that matters more than ever in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure work environment. From spontaneous shoutouts to structured recognition, we explore how celebration creates connection, boosts morale, and helps build resilient, people-first cultures.Plus—we’re celebrating a milestone of our own: ONE YEAR of SpeakEasy HR! 🎉 So grab your favorite cup of coffee and join us as we talk about:Why celebration isn’t fluff—it’s fuelWays to make recognition personal and meaningfulHow to celebrate without a big budgetEncouraging joy, gratitude, and connection at workBecause when we take time to celebrate what’s good, we create workplaces where people want to stay, grow, and thrive.

What really defines effective leadership today—and how can leaders spark transformation that actually sticks? In this powerful episode of SpeakEasy HR, we’re joined by Jordyne Carmack, the Owner & CEO of AuthentiLead, a boutique leadership development firm known for energizing teams, enhancing creativity, and achieving remarkable outcomes. Jordyne brings a fresh, engaging perspective on leadership that’s aligned, connected, and—most importantly—enjoyable.We’ll explore how values, emotional intelligence, and intentional connection create the cornerstone of strong leadership—and how even small shifts in how we lead can make a big impact on performance, culture, and morale. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, a people manager, or simply passionate about leadership growth, this conversation will challenge, encourage, and energize you. Expect real-world stories, actionable insights, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we’re joined by special guest Diane Allen for a powerful conversation on what it really takes to lead with purpose and elevate employee engagement. Diane shares actionable insights on how leaders can tap into their purpose to stay energized, focused, and effective—especially in today’s fast-paced workplace. If you’re looking to boost performance, inspire your team, and show up as your best self, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss.

Starting the month long one-year podcast anniversary with a bang!Peter Phelan—Your favorite HR Comedian’s favorite HR Comedian—is bringing the humor and the heat in our latest episode:"HR Comedy: What's Your Net Mirth? HumoR in HR!"We dive into the lighter (and laugh-out-loud) side of Human Resources with a conversation packed full of:💼 Why humor belongs in the workplace😂 How laughter builds connection and boosts culture🔥 Hilarious real-life HR moments (yes, they exist!)🛠️ Tips for leading with levity—even when things get heavyIf you’ve ever rolled your eyes at mandatory fun or needed a laugh between policy updates, this one’s for YOU. Come for the insights, stay for the punchlines.

On this week’s SpeakEasy HR, we sit down with Dr. Angela Crawford—an accomplished leadership strategist, consultant, and author of Leaders SUCCEED Together.Angela shares her Superpower Pyramid framework, revealing how leaders and organizations can tap into purpose, passion, and performance to drive real results. With experience leading a 23-country study on workplace motivation and a career spanning Fortune 500 companies, academia, and consulting, she brings a global perspective and practical wisdom.You’ll walk away with insights on building high-performing teams, fostering a culture of growth, and leading with clarity and heart.

In this insightful episode of SpeakEasy HR, we welcome Erich Kurschat, a respected voice in the HR community, to dive into the power and importance of diverse communication styles in the workplace. As the founder of Harmony Insights and HRHotSeat, Erich brings a wealth of experience helping individuals and teams better understand themselves—and each other—through the lens of personality and communication.Get ready to push yourself beyond your comfort zone as we challenge assumptions, embrace differences, and uncover what it really takes to lead and connect in today’s workplace.Whether you're an HR pro, a team leader, or someone looking to grow in emotional intelligence, this episode offers practical takeaways and thoughtful reflections to help you build stronger connections at work—one conversation at a time.

In this episode of SpeakEasy HR, we sat down with Sean Luitjens from Salary.com to explore how the role of payroll has evolved—and why it’s becoming a more strategic player in the total rewards conversation. Gone are the days when payroll was seen as purely transactional. Today, it’s a critical part of how organizations attract, retain, and engage their workforce. Sean broke down how technology, data, and transparency are transforming payroll into a powerful lever for compensation strategy, internal equity, and employee satisfaction. 🔍 Topics We Covered: The intersection of payroll and total rewards strategy How pay transparency is shifting expectations Why payroll teams should have a seat at the table Trends shaping compensation and HR tech Actionable advice for HR leaders and payroll professionals If you’re in HR, payroll, or total rewards—or simply trying to understand how pay drives performance—this episode was packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

This week on SpeakEasy HR, I was joined by the incredible Neil Thompson — engineer, Inc. Magazine contributor, children’s book author, speaker, and founder of Teach the Geek. We got into why strong communication skills are a game-changer for leadership, career growth, and especially for those in technical fields. From boardrooms to classrooms, Neil shares how mastering your message can elevate your impact.If you're looking to grow your influence, lead with clarity, or simply speak with more confidence — this one's for you

When we talk about the "experience" at work, it’s usually focused on employees — but what about the people who advocate for them every day?In this episode, we flip the script and take a closer look at the experience of HR itself. I’m joined by Jennifer DuPont, a passionate HR leader who shares her insights on what it really means to be the voice for employees, balancing organizational needs while championing people-first practices.We dive into:✅ How HR shapes the employee experience behind the scenes✅ The challenges (and rewards) of being an advocate for employees✅ Why the HR experience matters for building a strong, supportive workplaceIt’s a real, honest conversation you won’t want to miss — full of takeaways whether you’re in HR, leadership, or just passionate about creating better workplaces.

Not every workplace disagreement or discomfort equals a "toxic culture." So how do we separate real toxicity from miscommunication, growth pains, or mismatched expectations?In this powerful episode of SpeakEasy HR, Keith Wilson joined me for a real, no-fluff conversation about the overuse of the word "toxic," how it's impacting workplaces, and what leaders and employees can do to create clarity, accountability, and healthier work environments.We dive into:✅ Why labeling everything as toxic is a problem✅ How to handle tough conversations and feedback✅ The difference between a bad day and a bad culture✅ Strategies to shift the workplace narrative—for goodWhether you're in HR, leadership, or just navigating your own work story, this one’s worth a listen

🎙️ SpeakEasy HR: Live from the 2025 HR Collaborative continues in the afternoon with a fresh round of impactful interviews featuring industry leaders who are shaking up how we think about recruiting, leadership, performance, and workplace culture.At 2:25, Kim Dube of ReFlex Recruiting dives into how organizations can build a Recruiting Culture of Agility, sharing strategies for staying responsive and effective in a fast-changing talent landscape. Then at 2:40, Kristie Dierig, founder of Every Spark, delivers an energizing conversation around her session It’s Time to Be Disruptive!—challenging traditional thinking and encouraging bold moves in HR.At 2:55, leadership coach and consultant Todd Bertsch explores The Power of Discomfort and Small Shifts, offering practical insights into how stepping out of our comfort zones can fuel real growth—for ourselves and our teams.After a brief break, the conversations ramp back up at 3:30 with Kathleen Snyder of Clark Schaefer Strategic HR, who shares how Targeted Skill Development can unlock higher performance and long-term retention. Closing out the day at 3:45 is Becky Foster, also from Clark Schaefer Strategic HR, leading a meaningful discussion on Civility in the Workplace—why it matters now more than ever, and how to bring it back into our daily work culture.These 15-minute episodes are fast, focused, and full of real-world value—perfect for today’s busy HR pros. Be sure to tune in and catch the bold ideas and authentic voices shaping the future of work.

🎙️ SpeakEasy HR: Live from the 2025 HR Collaborative is bringing you exclusive 15-minute interviews with some of the event’s most dynamic and thought-provoking speakers.I sit down with each guest for quick, insightful conversations that dig deeper into their sessions, leadership philosophies, and real-time takeaways from the event floor.At 11:00am, Andre Young, author and keynote speaker, kicks things off with a powerful look at the 7 Professional Languages of Leadership, sharing how leaders can improve connection and communication across teams. At 11:15, Kathy Seidel from MRA breaks down the key to Mastering Retention in today’s ever-shifting workforce—exploring what loyalty looks like in 2025.The momentum continues at 11:30 with Scott McGohan of one Morning, who explores why Culture is an Inside Job and how organizations can transform from the inside out. At 11:45, Sammie Kelly, founder of Beyond Neurodiversity, shares lessons in leadership and training from the neurodiverse community—focusing on how to recognize and leverage the unique strengths of every team member.Wrapping up the live lineup at 12:00, Jen Beck of Complete Health Revolution brings fresh insight on Redefining Corporate Wellness, balancing real employee well-being with results that matter to the bottom line.These rapid-fire interviews are packed with energy, ideas, and inspiration—don’t miss this special edition of SpeakEasy HR, live from one of the year’s most impactful HR events!

🚀 Creativity in HR: Shattering Policies & Procedures 🚀Is HR stuck in a policy-and-procedure mindset? 🤔 Or is there room for creativity, innovation, and bold new approaches?This week on SpeakEasy HR, we spoke about Creativity in HR with the incredible Dr. Melanie Peacock, author of "HR Can Be Murder"! 🎙️🔥 Are policies meant to be broken?🔥 How can HR professionals rethink “the way things have always been done”?🔥 What happens when innovation meets compliance?Dr. Peacock shared fresh, fearless insights on balancing structure with creativity—and why breaking the mold might just be the best thing for today’s workforce.💡 HR isn’t just about policies—it’s about people, adaptability, and evolution. Let’s talk about it!

🎙️ New Episode Alert: Ethics in Hiring & Effective Interviewing with Katherine McCord This week on SpeakEasyHR, we sit down with the incredible Katherine McCord—HR consultant, dynamic speaker, and fierce advocate for ethical, inclusive hiring. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what it truly means to hire with integrity in today’s ever-evolving workforce. Katherine brings the heat with practical insights on:✅ Building fair and inclusive interview processes✅ Avoiding common hiring missteps✅ Reducing bias in decision-making✅ Creating a culture of ethical accountability from day one Whether you're an HR leader, a hiring manager, or someone who cares about doing things the right way—this episode is for you.

Traci Austin, Chief Talent Officer with Elevated Talent Consulting, joined me for a game-changing conversation on Turning Complaints Into Requests.In this episode, we explored: ✅ How to shift workplace complaints into productive conversations✅ Practical strategies for leaders to foster a solutions-focused culture✅ The impact of reframing challenges on engagement and retention

Jeff Palkowski, State Director of the Wisconsin State Council SHRM, joins me to dive into The Power of Connectivity in HR and explore how building strong connections can transform workplace culture, boost engagement, and drive success.💡 What to Expect:✅ Real-world insights on the impact of networking and relationship-building in HR✅ Strategies for fostering authentic connections within your organization✅ How connectivity can be a game-changer for both HR professionals and employeesWhether you're an HR pro, a business leader, or simply passionate about creating meaningful connections at work, this episode is for you!

In this episode, Terry Wilson joins me to explore the Seven Essential Skills for Effective Leaders. With over 40 years of experience and his current role as Training & Development Practice Manager at Clark Shaefer Strategic HR, Terry shares invaluable insights on what it takes to lead with impact in today’s ever-evolving workplace. To learn more, visit https://strategichrinc.com/