The Evolution of AI: Past, Present, and Future

Host: Steve Boese 

Guest: Miranda Nash, Group Vice President of Applications Development Strategy, Oracle

Summary

In this episode of the HR Happy Hour Show, Steve Boese interviews Miranda Nash, Group VP of Applications Development Strategy at Oracle, discussing the transformative impact of AI in enterprise applications. They explore the evolution of AI from predictive models to generative and agentic AI, emphasizing the importance of security, reliability, and data management. Miranda shares insights on how Oracle is leveraging AI to automate complex processes and enhance user experience, while also addressing the future of AI in enterprise solutions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Enterprise

3:17 Understanding Enterprise AI vs Consumer AI

6:10 The Evolution of AI: From Predictive to Generative

09:16 Agentic AI: A New Frontier

11:14 Real-World Applications of Agentic AI

14:05 The Future of AI in Enterprise

17:12 Advice for Organizations Adopting AI

20:20 Conclusion and Future Outlook

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

Transforming Workplace Mental Health in 2025

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Dr. Nick Taylor, CEO of Unmind

Summary

In this episode of At Work in America, Steve and Dr. Nick Taylor discuss the critical importance of mental health in the workplace, emphasizing the need for early intervention and the role of AI in transforming mental health support. They explore the stigma surrounding mental health, generational shifts in awareness, and actionable steps organizations can take to improve employee wellbeing. The discussion highlights the necessity of training leaders to support mental health and the ethical considerations in deploying AI tools.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in the Workplace

05:02 The Importance of Early Intervention

08:15 Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

11:08 The Role of AI in Mental Health Support

17:18 AI's Impact on Mental Health Services

23:25 Scaling Mental Health Support with AI

29:13 Actionable Steps for Organizations

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes. 

Listeners, quick question for you: How prepared is your business for a surprise I-9 audit? If that question made your stomach drop, you're not alone. Even if all your employees are authorized to work, small errors on your I-9 paperwork could lead to fines that rack up into the thousands. 

That's where our friends at Paychex come in. With audits on the rise, they've got a free, on-demand webinar called I-9 Audits and ICE Raids: What Employers Need to Know to Stay Protected. It's a step-by-step guide to help you protect your business from expensive fines, stress, and confusion.  

Don't wait until it's too late. Watch it today at paychex.com/awia.

It only takes 45 minutes to gain peace of mind. 

Using People Analytics to Create Culture and Make Work More Human

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Meisha-ann Martin, PhD., VP, People Research, Workhuman

Summary

In this episode of the HR Happy Hour Show, hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed discuss how People Analytics and rich recognition data can help leaders create culture, improve workplaces, and drive positive business outcomes with Dr. Meisha-ann Martin, VP, People Research at Workhuman.

On the show we talked about Meisha-ann's journey to People Research, how asking the right questions is key to understanding people data, how the emergence of new AI tools can help us make workplaces even more human. Additionally, Meisha-ann shared some ideas on how to make employee surveys more valuable, actionable, and meaningful for employees as well as leaders.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Sponsor thanks

1:20 Introduction to People Analytics and Recognition

02:54 Dr. Misha Ann Martin's Journey and Insights

09:41 The Role of Recognition in Workplace Culture

15:53 AI's Impact on Human Connection

20:08 Evolving Data Usage in HR

24:23 The Nirvana Approach to HR Strategy

28:44 Feedback Mechanisms and Continuous Listening

32:01 Two-Way Feedback and Empowering Employees

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

Powering AI with Human Data at Workhuman Live

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Tom Libretto, President of Workhuman

Summary

In this episode of the HR Happy Hour Show, hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed discuss the evolving role of AI in HR with Tom Libretto, President of Workhuman. They explore the significance of AI in enhancing employee recognition, its impact on business outcomes, and the insights derived from recognition data. The conversation also touches on the challenges of AI fatigue, the responsibility of organizations to educate their workforce about AI, and the future potential of human intelligence in the workplace.

Chapters

00:00 The Promise of AI and Data Quality

05:17 Recognition as a Tool for Business Outcomes

08:47 Insights from AI and Recognition Data

12:46 Visualizing Organizational Networks

16:35 Disrupting Traditional HR Processes

19:13 Navigating AI Fatigue in Organizations

23:04 The Role of Education in AI Adoption

28:35 Future of AI in HR and Human Intelligence

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

Making Hybrid Working Effective

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Gary Cookson, Epic HR

In this podcast interview Mervyn talks with Gary Cookson from Epic HR whose latest book - Making Hybrid Working Work - helps business leaders and HR professionals ensure that hybrid working works for their people.

During the conversation they discuss:

- What is and isn't 'hybrid working'

- Evolution of the 9-to-5 routine and mindset

- Personalisation of work with a people centric approach

- Technology and space

- The hybrid employee experience

- HR and Leadership's role in making hybrid work successful

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work. But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

Made in China? The Price of Global Trade

Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer

Summary

In this episode of The Play by Play, Jack and Nick discuss the complexities of tariffs and the ongoing trade war between the US and China. They explain what tariffs are, their purpose, and the timeline of events that have led to the current state of trade relations. The conversation highlights the effects of tariffs on consumers, the job market, and young entrepreneurs, as well as evaluating the success of tariffs in reshoring manufacturing. They also explore the ideal future outcomes of tariffs and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset in the face of economic challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tariffs and Trade Wars

07:47 Tariffs Definition and Purpose

14:02 The Timeline of the US-China Trade War

22:21 Evaluating the Success of Tariffs

28:10 Game Time Segment Begins

43:39 Closing Thoughts and Quote of the Show

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

Building Opportunity and Community with 84 Lumber

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Paul Yater, CIO and Head of HR at 84 Lumber

Summary

In this episode of At Work in America, Steve and Trish interview Paul Yater, the Chief Information Officer and Head of HR at 84 Lumber. They discuss the company's commitment to training and development, the impact of AI on entry-level jobs, and the skills needed for new graduates. Paul shares insights on building a collaborative culture, the importance of trust in the workplace, and the company's future growth plans. The conversation highlights 84 Lumber's unique position in the industry and its dedication to fostering a supportive environment for employees.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to 84 Lumber and Its Mission

05:28 Training and Development at 84 Lumber

08:27 The Impact of AI on Entry-Level Jobs

11:18 Skills and Opportunities for New Graduates

17:27 Trust and Recognition in the Workplace

20:34 Future Growth and Technology Integration

23:23 The Value of Investing in People

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

These days, it feels like there isn’t much good to go around in the world of work.  

But Workhuman knows when we celebrate the good in each of us, we bring out the best in all of us. 

It’s why they created the world’s # 1 employee recognition platform — and they didn’t stop there, combining rich recognition data with AI to create Human Intelligence, so you can get uniquely good insights into performance, skills, engagement and more. 

To learn more about how you can join their force for good, go to Workhuman.com, or check out their own podcast, “How We Work,” which explores, the trends, issues, relationships, and experiences that shape our workplaces. 

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes. 

Listeners, quick question for you: How prepared is your business for a surprise I-9 audit? If that question made your stomach drop, you're not alone. Even if all your employees are authorized to work, small errors on your I-9 paperwork could lead to fines that rack up into the thousands. 

That's where our friends at Paychex come in. With audits on the rise, they've got a free, on-demand webinar called I-9 Audits and ICE Raids: What Employers Need to Know to Stay Protected. It's a step-by-step guide to help you protect your business from expensive fines, stress, and confusion.  

Don't wait until it's too late. Watch it today at paychex.com/awia.

It only takes 45 minutes to gain peace of mind. 

Designing the Workplace of the Future

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Isobel Elton, Founder of Future of the Office

In this podcast interview Mervyn talks to Isobel Elton, founder of the consultancy Future of the Office, about future workspace design and how to build spaces that will bring people together.

During the conversation they discuss:

- What should a workspace look and feel like?

- Are RTO mandates a backward step? How can we use them as a catalyst for a rethink of workspaces?

- The evolution of what we call 'work' in the knowledge era

- Creating workspaces that can appeal to all generations and levels of experience

- The concept of the workspace as a 'private club'

- Principles of neurodiverse office design

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. If you’ve ever wondered what good can come of AI for HR, meet Human Intelligence. It uses the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform to uncover insights into good culture, skills, performance, and more. It also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it surfaces feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.comand join their force for good.

Defining the Skills that Matter in the Age of AI

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Caitlin MacGregor, CEO, Plum

Summary

In this episode of At Work in America, Steve Boese and Trish Steed engage with Caitlin McGregor, CEO of Plum, to discuss the innovative approach of Plum in assessing durable skills and the impact of AI on the workforce. They explore how organizations can better match employees to roles that suit their strengths and the importance of shifting towards skills-based hiring in a rapidly changing job market.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Plum and Its Vision

03:31 Understanding Durable Skills and Their Importance

07:49 Enhancing Productivity Through Skill Matching

12:07 AI's Impact on Career Paths and Entry-Level Jobs

16:28 The Role of AI in Transforming Work Dynamics 

21:11 Common Language for Skills and Self-Awareness

26:48. Skills-Based Hiring and a New Approach to Talent Management

Create your own Plum Profile HERE

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

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

HR is about to change for good with the power of Human Intelligence.

By combining AI and the rich data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence answers HR’s most demanding needs…

…unlocking insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement — ultimately elevating performance and, above all, people.

The future of HR has arrived. Will you – and your company – be a part of it?

Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com and join their force for good.

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Are you ready to crush the year ahead? The 2025 Priorities for Business Leaders Report from our friends at Paychex is here, and it's packed with insights from 600 companies on how to drive growth and get ahead.

This isn't your average data dump — it includes actionable strategies on everything from attracting new hires to improving employee retention, managing HR compliance, and leveraging technology to stay competitive.  

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and tackle 2025 with confidence, download the report today at paychex.com/awia.

It’s free, it’s insightful, and it might just give you the edge you need.

HR Means Business: Increasing HR's Impact in Facilitating Change

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Lucy Adams, CEO of Disruptive HR

In this podcast interview Mervyn talks to Lucy Adams, former HR Director and author of the books HR Disrupted and The HR Change Toolkit, about dealing with disruption and emerging trends, and how to help bring about change in organisations.

During the conversation they discuss:

- Assessing an organisation's 'fitness' for embracing change and disruption

- Emerging AI technology

- Effectiveness of RTO mandates  

- How HR leaders can balance the demands and preferences of different generations in the workplace

- Rethinking D&I initiatives

- Shifting HR mindsets

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. If you’ve ever wondered what good can come of AI for HR, meet Human Intelligence. It uses the uniquely authentic data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform to uncover insights into good culture, skills, performance, and more. It also helps coach employees on what good peer-to-peer recognition looks like, turning every “good job” into better engagement, retention, and wellbeing. And it surfaces feel-good stories that illustrate the best of your company culture. Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com and join their force for good.