Holiday parties are meant to boost morale—not create legal problems. But every year, employers find themselves dealing with harassment complaints, wage and hour surprises, and liability issues they didn’t see coming.

In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, Pam Howland, Jennifer Walrath, and Doug Plass break down the most common (and costly) compliance risks tied to workplace holiday events. From alcohol-related harassment claims to wage and hour traps, workers’ comp exposure, and religious accommodation considerations, this conversation walks employers through what to think about before the party starts.

If you’re hosting a holiday event—or planning for next year—this episode will help you put guardrails in place so you can celebrate without ending the year with a claim or lawsuit.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

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In this episode, Pam, Doug, and Jennifer walk through the EEOC’s newly released technical assistance bulletin addressing national origin discrimination. The team highlights why the bulletin matters, how it fits into broader enforcement trends, and what employers should keep in mind when navigating workplaces that include a mix of U.S. workers, visa holders, and migrant or foreign labor.

Drawing from recent examples and the EEOC’s stated priorities, the conversation focuses on practical considerations: advertising roles consistently, offering work opportunities fairly, reviewing hiring practices, and responding appropriately when employees raise concerns. The attorneys also emphasize the growing intersection between immigration processes and Title VII compliance — and why employers may need to reassess long-standing practices in light of this guidance.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules, Pam and Jennifer pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to take an employment case to trial. Fresh off a seven-day jury trial, they break down the unpredictability, cost, and intense pressure that come with litigation — and why avoiding the courtroom should be a top priority for employers.

From unexpected evidentiary rulings to long timelines, jury wild cards, and the staggering emotional and financial toll on employers, Pam and Jennifer share real stories, practical insights, and the key steps leaders should be taking now to protect their organizations.

If you've ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in a courtroom — or why so few cases ever make it to trial — this episode is a must-listen

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules, Pam, Jennifer, and Megan take a practical, employer-focused look at one of the most frequently used — and frequently misunderstood — workplace laws: the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Megan shares insights from her recent deep dive into FMLA’s history, purpose, and modern application, including how FMLA interacts with the ADA, workers’ compensation, and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The team breaks down eligibility rules, documentation requirements, common employer mistakes, and the real-world scenarios that often lead to interference, discrimination, and retaliation claims.

Whether you're an HR professional, a supervisor, or a business owner, this episode provides the tools you need to spot potential FMLA issues early, train supervisors effectively, and avoid costly pitfalls — especially when navigating mental-health-related leave, intermittent leave patterns, and overlapping legal obligations.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, Pam, Jennifer, and Doug sit down with keynote speaker and executive coach Michelle Choate to explore how emotional intelligence (EQ) directly shapes compliance, culture, and leadership effectiveness in today’s workplaces.

From understanding the science behind emotions to recognizing how fear responses drive behavior, Michelle explains how emotionally intelligent leaders can prevent legal risk, improve employee engagement, and strengthen team communication. The conversation connects neuroscience with real-world employment law — illustrating how EQ influences everything from investigations and performance reviews to hiring and policy design.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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When it comes to drug and alcohol testing, employers must balance safety, compliance, and employee rights. In this episode, Pam Howland, Jennifer Walrath, and Doug Plass discuss when testing is appropriate, what policies should include, and how documentation can protect both employers and employees.

They also unpack the Lanier v. City of Woodburn case, Idaho’s Drug-Free Workplace Act, and practical tips for handling reasonable suspicion situations. Whether you’re creating a policy or managing a real-time concern, this episode covers what to do—and what to avoid.

Key Takeaways

• Public vs. private employers face different rules on testing.
• A clear written policy is essential.
• Random testing must truly be random.
• Document observations using a checklist.
• Train supervisors on when and how to act.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, Pam Howland sits down with Doug Plass and Jennifer Walrath to unpack the ripple effects of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in Muldrow v. City of St. Louis.

They walk through surprising scenarios that triggered claims — from performance improvement plans to reclassifications — and discuss what this means for HR teams and supervisors moving forward.

You’ll hear how this single decision, which lowered the bar from “significant harm” to just “some harm” under Title VII, is reshaping what qualifies as an adverse employment action. Pam, Doug, and Jennifer also share what steps employers can take right now to prepare for an uptick in claims and stay compliant in this new legal climate.

 Key Takeaways: 

• “Some Harm” Is the New Standard. The Supreme Court ruled that employees no longer need to show significant harm to bring a discrimination claim; this lower bar opens the door to more lawsuits.
• Expect More Claims. Courts and agencies like the EEOC are already seeing an increase in filings as this ruling filters through the system.
• More Important Than Ever For Legitimate Employment Decisions. Transfers, reclassifications, and even performance improvement plans could be viewed as adverse actions depending on the facts.
• Documentation Is Still Your Best Defense. Courts look for contemporaneous, factual documentation — it’s still your best defense, but ensure it is done legally.
• Train and Prepare. Clear job descriptions, consistent policies, and supervisor training are more critical than ever to stay ahead of shifting standards.

 👉 Want to go deeper? Join us for our upcoming webinar, Compliance Considerations in Times of Political Chaos, on November 14 — where we’ll dive into today’s toughest employer challenges, including social media conduct, civility in the workplace, and Title VII updates under the current administration. 

Register here: https://updates.idemploymentlawyers.com/webinar-complianceinchaos

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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The rules around LGBTQ+ protections in the workplace seem to shift every news cycle—but what’s the real legal landscape for employers in late 2025? Pam, Jennifer, and Doug unpack where Bostock v. Clayton County still stands, how recent executive orders and EEOC actions are creating confusion, and what employers should keep in mind when religious accommodations come into play. They also share practical takeaways for navigating these complex, often emotionally charged issues—like why “respectful workplace” training is more critical than ever.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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What should you do if the Department of Labor shows up at your door? In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, Pam Howland sits down with attorneys Doug Plass and Jennifer Walrith to discuss how employers can prepare for — and respond to — a DOL wage and hour audit.

They cover what to expect during an investigation, how to stay organized and cooperative without oversharing, and why having a plan (and your attorney’s number on speed dial) can make all the difference. The team also walks through common violations — from overtime and tip pooling to child labor and nursing mother requirements — and shares practical steps to minimize your risk before the DOL ever comes calling.

Key takeaways:

• What triggers DOL audits and which industries are targeted most
• How to respond when an investigator arrives unannounced
• What records you’re required to provide (and what you’re not)
• The importance of documentation and keeping copies
• How counsel can help protect your business and limit penalties

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, attorneys Pam Howland, Doug Plass, and Jennifer Walrath sit down to unpack one of the most common sources of employer headaches — wage and hour compliance.

They cover what every employer should know about:

• Properly classifying employees as exempt or non-exempt
• Keeping accurate time and pay records
• Calculating overtime 
• Handling final paychecks, deductions, and safe harbor policies
• Idaho-specific wage laws to keep in mind

Whether you’re a new business or a seasoned employer, this episode walks through the fundamentals you need to avoid costly wage claims and DOL audits — and keep your workplace in compliance.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

Don't miss out!
🔗 Connect with us on LinkedIn
📧 Sign up for our email blast
📚 Learn more about our Law for Leaders Training Program
👥 Learn more about your Hosts and Idaho Employment Lawyers