2025 in Review: The Conversations Shaping Work in 2026

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guests: Mervyn Dinnen, Jack McFarlane, & Nick Schlemmer

Summary

In this episode of the HR Happy Hour Show, hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed reflect on the past year and discuss their plans for 2026. They highlight the show's global reach, with listeners from 177 countries, and share insights from their favorite episodes of 2025. The conversation covers topics such as AI, hybrid work, leadership, and the importance of humanizing technology. They also discuss the impact of external factors on workplace wellbeing and the role of benefits in uniting a divided workforce. The episode concludes with a look ahead to new developments on the HR Happy Hour Network.

Takeaways

• The HR Happy Hour network reaches a global audience
• Wellbeing and mental health are crucial workplace discussions
• Hybrid and flexible work models are evolving
• Engagement with the audience is a priority for the network
• Memorable episodes and guests
• Collaboration and connection for the future
• New network developments coming...stay tuned!

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

The HR Happy Hour Network is proudly sponsored by Workhuman. The workplace is changing fast—and the leaders who understand what's coming will have the advantage. 

Workhuman's annual Trends Webinar returns January 29th with research-backed insights on the hottest trends shaping 2026. Discover how top organizations are navigating AI, psychological safety, performance, and equity to outperform their competition—plus exclusive findings from McKinsey's Women in the Workplace 2026 report. 

Featuring an expert panel from McKinsey and Workhuman, you'll get the intelligence you need to lead with confidence this year. 

Join the Trends Webinar live January 29th at noon Eastern, or catch the replay on demand. Register for free at Workhuman.com