HR Mixtape

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Alexandra Levitt, the founder and CEO of Inspiration at Work, to discuss the future of work, leadership, and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Alexandra, a workforce futurist and Wall Street Journal columnist, shares her insights on how organizations can prepare for upcoming workforce trends and the unique challenges faced by the emerging Gen Z workforce.

Key Takeaways:

Upskilling for the Future: Alexandra emphasizes the importance of applied technology skills and technological curiosity for women in the workforce, highlighting how these skills can enhance their unique strengths in emotional intelligence and creative problem-solving.

Understanding Gen Z: The episode explores the expectations of Gen Z employees, who are entering the workforce with different experiences and challenges, particularly in communication and mental health. Organizations need to adapt their onboarding and training programs to meet these needs.

The Role of Technology in DEI: Alexandra discusses how technology can help level the playing field in the workplace, particularly for underrepresented groups, and the necessity for organizations to embrace pay equity and transparency to foster a more inclusive environment.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to navigate the evolving landscape of work and empower diverse talent in your organization!

Guest(s): Alexandra Levit, Workforce Futurist, WSJ Columnist, CEO at Inspiration at Work, Int'l Bestselling Author of Humanity Works

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Aaron Robbins, president of Intrinsic First, to discuss the critical topic of motivation in the workplace. With nearly 20 years of experience in leadership, HR, and process improvement, Aaron shares his insights on the difference between increasing motivation and improving the quality of motivation. He emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and the psychological needs of autonomy, relatedness, and competence in fostering a thriving organizational culture.

Key Takeaways:

Guest(s): Aaron Robbins, President, Intrinsic First

🤝 How do you build accountability from day one?

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. David S. Cohen, a renowned author, keynote speaker, and consultant specializing in leadership, organizational behavior, and talent management. They delve into the critical topics of communication and accountability within organizations, particularly focusing on how HR leaders can effectively convey the importance of accountability to senior executives.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into fostering a culture of accountability, understanding the significance of psychological safety, and implementing effective onboarding practices that set new hires up for success.

Key Takeaways:

Tune in to discover how to create a more accountable and engaged workforce!

Guest(s): Dr. David S. Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen & Associates

✨ "Trust your gut and treat people decently." - Jim Reidy

In this episode of "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with employment lawyer, public speaker, writer, and artist Jim Reidy. They delve into the complexities of HR law, sharing bizarre case stories and discussing the balance between legal compliance and fostering a positive company culture. Jim emphasizes the importance of staying informed about legal changes and the role of HR professionals in navigating these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of HR law and how to effectively manage compliance while creating a thriving workplace culture.

Guest(s): Jim Reidy, Attorney, Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with keynote speaker and president of Vantaggio HR, Lauraine Bifulco, at SHRM 24. They delve into the complexities of interviewing and compliance in the HR landscape, highlighting the importance of avoiding protected categories and ensuring fair hiring practices. Lauraine shares valuable insights on how to coach managers in conducting effective interviews while maintaining compliance with evolving legislation.

Key Takeaways:

Tune in to gain practical advice and thought-provoking insights that will help transform your interviewing process and enhance your HR practices.

Guest(s): Lauraine Bifulco, HR Expert | HR Consulting | Speaker, Vantaggio HR

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Joanna Colosimo, an IO psychologist and pay equity expert from DCI Consulting Group. They discuss the latest trends in pay equity, challenges in achieving pay equity, and the impact of pay transparency on organizations.

Key Takeaways:

Guest(s): Joanna Colosimo, Vice President at DCI Consulting Group

😂 From prom pictures to childhood posters, learn how simple conversations can spark joy and connection in the workplace!

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes John Baldino, speaker and president of Humareso, to discuss the importance of incorporating fun into workplace culture. Recorded live on the SHRM floor, Shari and John explore how genuine fun can enhance employee engagement and foster a positive work environment. They share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for HR professionals to create a more enjoyable workplace, whether in-person or remote.

Key Takeaways:

Tune in to gain insights on transforming workplace culture through fun and connection!

Guest(s): John Baldino, President, Humareso

In this episode of the "HR Mixtape" podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes back John Bernatovicz, author of "HR Like a Boss" and founder of Willery. They dive into the transformative power of HR in the workplace, discussing how HR professionals can enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. John shares his personal journey of writing his book, the importance of assertiveness in HR, and the misconceptions that often surround the field.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to foster a positive workplace culture and the critical role HR plays in connecting employees to the organization's purpose.

Key Takeaways:

Tune in to discover how to elevate your HR practices and make a lasting impact in your organization!

Guest(s): John Bernatovicz, Author of HR LIke A Boss and Willory Founder

In this episode of HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. John Austin, the Dean of the University of New England Honors College and a partner at Dynamic Foresight. They discuss the shift from change leadership to strategic foresight and how HR professionals can navigate uncertainty in the workplace. Dr. Austin shares insights on the importance of adaptability, resiliency, and the integration of foresight and change management in organizations.

Understanding Uncertainty: Dr. Austin emphasizes the importance of engaging with uncertainty rather than avoiding it, as it can lead to anxiety and missed opportunities.

Building Resiliency: By preparing organizations to be future-proofed and adapting to changing circumstances, HR professionals can help build resiliency within their teams.

Foresight in HR: Dr. Austin suggests incorporating discussions of uncertainties into HR facilitations and developing customized futures for organizations to stress test strategies effectively.

Guest(s): Dr. John Austin, Dean of the University of New England Honors College and a partner at Dynamic Foresight

💼 Looking to make DEIA initiatives more than just a trend?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast hosted by Shari Simpson, Dethra Giles, a people and culture strategist, discusses combating DEIA fatigue in organizations. They delve into the importance of attaching results to DEIA initiatives and making them practical for business success. Dethra shares a success story of reviving a fatigued organization by aligning DEIA efforts with business strategies, ultimately saving and potentially making millions. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding business acumen as an HR professional and implementing fresh, engaging approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Three Takeaways:

Guest(s): Dethra Giles, Speaker, Author, & Chief Human Resources Officer at ExecuPrep