HR Mixtape

By WRKdefined Podcast NetworkBusiness Careers Management

HR Mixtape episodes

June 03, 2025Lessons from the Warehouse: Rethinking HR for Deskless Workers with Tracie Sponeberg
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Tracy Sponenberg, founder and chief people officer at Tracy Sponenberg LLC. They dive into the often-overlooked topic of deskless or frontline workers, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities in enhancing employee experience for this critical group. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of inclusive leadership and effective communication strategies, especially in a post-pandemic world where employee engagement is paramount.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to implement a listening tour to build trust with frontline employees.
Discover why flexibility in roles and schedules is essential for enhancing employee experience.
Explore strategies for leveraging technology, like AI and mobile solutions, to support deskless workers.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on transforming your HR approach for frontline teams!
Guest(s): Tracy Sponenberg, Chief People Officer, Tracy Sponenberg LLC
20 min
May 27, 2025Tactical HR to Strategic Leadership: Defining Values and Integrity in the Workplace with Jamy Conrad
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR at TrustRadius. They delve into the evolving role of HR professionals, focusing on the critical transition from tactical support to strategic partnership in the workplace. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the integration of AI in HR practices. Jamy shares her unique insights on fostering a culture of belonging and leveraging soft skills as power skills to drive business outcomes.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to balance employee advocacy with organizational goals for mutual benefit.
Discover why developing an HR mission and values statement is essential for internal branding.
Explore strategies for embracing AI as a tool to enhance HR efficiency and effectiveness.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach!
Guest(s): Jamy Conrad, Vice President of People and HR, TrustRadius
26 min
May 20, 2025The Sole Trap: How Successful Managers Sabotage Their Teams with Sabina Nawaz
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Sabina Nawaz, an elite executive coach at Nawaz Consulting, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of effective management, particularly for high-performing leaders who often overlook the importance of feedback and psychological safety within their teams. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly prioritize employee experience and inclusive leadership in today's dynamic work environment.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to cultivate a culture of feedback that empowers team members to share their insights openly.
Discover why speaking less can enhance your leadership effectiveness and foster better communication.
Explore strategies for creating psychological safety, enabling your team to engage in tough conversations without fear.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your management approach!
Guest(s): Sabina Nawaz, Executive Coach, Nawaz Consulting, LLC
21 min
May 13, 2025Building Dream Teams: The Power of Positivity with Dr. Joey Faucette
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Joey Faucette, an executive coach and culture architect at Work Positive. They dive into the concept of "dream teams" in today's hybrid work environment, emphasizing the importance of positivity and active listening in fostering a successful workplace culture. Dr. Faucette shares practical strategies for leaders to cultivate a strengths-based approach, highlighting the significance of gratitude and collaboration.
Key Takeaways:
Active Listening: Learn how to enhance team dynamics by truly listening to your colleagues, especially in a hybrid setting.
Positivity vs. Toxic Positivity: Understand the difference and how to maintain a realistic yet optimistic workplace culture.
Empowering Teams: Discover how to shift from providing answers to asking powerful questions that encourage team collaboration and innovation.
Tune in for insights that can transform your leadership style and workplace culture!

Guest(s): Dr. Joey Faucette, Founder & President, Work Positive
24 min
May 06, 2025Navigating Belonging Through Personal Connection with Dan Berger
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dan Berger, founder and CEO of Assemble Hospitality Group, to discuss the critical concept of workplace belonging. Dan shares his personal journey of adoption and the impact of belonging traumas on his life, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual experiences in the workplace. He introduces the idea of belonging archetypes and outlines six paths to foster belonging both personally and professionally.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding your belonging archetype can help you navigate relationships and foster a sense of belonging in the workplace.
Employers should create spaces for employees to build connections outside of work to enhance workplace culture.
Measuring belonging goes beyond traditional metrics; focusing on feelings of acceptance and value is essential for a thriving workplace.
Tune in to explore how to cultivate a culture of belonging in your organization!
Guest(s): Dan Berger, Founder and CEO, Assemble Hospitality Group
20 min
April 29, 2025High Turnover and Legal Risks: What Every HR Leader Needs to Know with Leah Stiegler
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Leah Stiegler, a principal employment attorney at Woods Rogers. Leah shares her expertise on navigating toxic workplaces, discussing the legal implications of a toxic work environment and how HR professionals can identify early warning signs. She emphasizes the importance of transparency in termination discussions and the need for consistent documentation to protect organizations from potential lawsuits.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the legal definition of a toxic workplace and the signs of a potentially actionable environment.
Learn best practices for handling terminations, including the importance of clear communication and documentation.
Discover strategies for managing "brilliant jerks" in the workplace while maintaining a positive company culture.
Tune in for practical advice and insights that can help transform your workplace dynamics!
Guest(s): Leah Stiegler, Principal Employment Attorney at Woods Rogers
25 min
April 22, 2025Dancing with Ambiguity: Five Habits to Foster Creativity in Your Team with Dr. Caroline Brookfield
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Caroline Brookfield, a veterinarian, researcher, and keynote speaker specializing in creative leadership and embracing ambiguity. With over 25 years of experience, Caroline shares insights on how leaders can foster creativity within their teams, emphasizing the importance of psychological safety and the need to redefine creativity beyond traditional artistic boundaries.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Creativity: Creativity isn't just about art; it encompasses problem-solving and innovative thinking in everyday tasks.
Embracing Ambiguity: Leaders must cultivate an environment where team members can sit with uncertainty, which can lead to greater creativity and resilience.
Practical Strategies: Caroline introduces the "DANCE" model, highlighting habits like daydreaming and curiosity that can enhance creative thinking in the workplace.
Tune in to discover how to inspire innovation and navigate change effectively!
Guest(s): Dr. Carolline Brookfield, Author, Keynote Speaker https://carolinebrookfield.com/
19 min
April 15, 2025Thriving Through Authenticity: Unlocking Personal and Professional Growth with Dr. Andy Garrett
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. Andy Garrett, a strategic growth consultant and clinical psychologist at AG Thrive. They delve into the concept of authentic identity and its crucial role in personal and professional growth. Dr. Garrett emphasizes the importance of aligning individual values with organizational goals to foster a thriving workplace culture.
Key Takeaways:
Authenticity as Leadership: Discover why authenticity is the ultimate leadership skill and how it enhances team dynamics.
True North Blueprint: Learn about the True North Blueprint and how defining personal and organizational values can reduce burnout and increase engagement.
Courageous Conversations: Gain insights on how to address inauthenticity in leadership through compassionate and constructive dialogue.
Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking insights that can transform your approach to HR and leadership development!
Guest(s): Dr. Andy Garrett, Psy D., Strategic Growth Consultant, Coach and Clinical Psychologist, AG Thrive Psychological Consultation, Inc.
24 min
April 08, 2025From Unlocking Business Potential: Strategies to Innovate and Thrive with Jared Rosenthal
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson sits down with Jared Rosenthal, founder and CEO of Health Street. Jared shares his unconventional journey from healthcare CEO to entrepreneur, highlighting his innovative approach to mobile DNA testing and the evolution of his tech platform. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing technology, fostering a culture of innovation, and navigating challenges during uncertain times like COVID-19.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace Technology: Small businesses can significantly improve efficiency by adopting scalable tech solutions rather than relying on outdated systems.
Foster Innovation: Encouraging a culture where employees feel empowered to take risks and innovate can lead to substantial growth and adaptability.
Transparent Leadership: Open communication during crises builds trust and helps employees understand the company's direction and their role in it.
Tune in for valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of small businesses!
Guest(s): Jared Rosenthal, Founder & CEO, Health Street
19 min
April 01, 2025From Classroom to Code: The Impact of AI on Learning and Development with Luis Garcia
In this episode of the "HR Mixtape," host Shari Simpson welcomes Luis Garcia, president and co-founder of PETE, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on workforce training and learning development. With over 25 years of experience in digital education and ed tech, Luis shares his journey and insights into how AI can enhance personalized learning experiences and improve evaluation methods in the workplace.
Key Takeaways:
AI in Learning: Discover how AI can create adaptive learning models that personalize training experiences and evaluate learning outcomes effectively.
Challenges in Hiring: Understand the complexities of modern hiring processes and how AI can complicate rather than simplify recruitment.
Getting Started with AI: Learn practical tools and strategies for individuals and businesses to embrace AI technology in their professional lives.
Tune in to explore how AI is reshaping the future of work and education!

Guest(s): Luis Garcia, President and CoFounder, PETE
22 min

About HR Mixtape

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HR Mixtape is a weekly human resources and business leadership podcast for HR professionals, people leaders, and executives navigating the real work of managing people. Episodes cover human resources strategy, HR compliance, workplace culture, leadership development, employee experience, payroll and HR technology, and the future of work.