Empathy is essential in the workplace, but what happens when it’s taken too far? In this episode, we unpack the dual nature of empathy in HR and leadership. From the power of emotional intelligence to the risk of burnout, favoritism, and blurred boundaries, we explore how good intentions can go sideways without the right balance. Join Holly and Regina as they share real-world stories, ask tough questions, and discuss how to lead with heart and clarity.

The school year is back in full swing, and so are the challenges that come with balancing work and parenting. In this episode, we unpack the realities of being a working parent, from drop-offs and daycare dilemmas to the emotional balancing act many caregivers face.

Whether you’re a parent, a manager, or just someone who works alongside caregivers, this episode offers insight, perspective, and some much-needed validation.

In this sun-soaked episode of HR Stew, we're diving into the not-so-relaxing side of time off. From envy-inducing PTO emails to mysterious “working remotely” situations, we explore how vacation time becomes a workplace minefield. Join us as we unpack quiet vacationing, chaotic scheduling, unlimited PTO myths, and some unforgettable out-of-office disasters.

From awkward small talk to open bar regrets, summer work events can go from team-building to HR horror story in no time. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of workplace social events—those company picnics, happy hours, and offsite parties that are meant to build culture, but sometimes lead to chaos.

Join hosts Holly & Regina, along with special guest Barbara Campbell, HR Business Partner at Vida HR, as they share funny stories, real-world advice, and answers to the questions HR professionals wish employees would ask before they hit the dance floor.

Bullying isn’t just for the playground—it happens in today’s workplaces, too. In this episode of HR Stew, we’re joined by HR Compliance Coordinator and SHRM-CP Sean Hansen to talk about how workplace bullying shows up, why it often goes unchecked, and what HR and leadership should be doing about it. From exclusion and gaslighting to flat-out verbal abuse, we break down real stories, red flags, and the gray areas that employees and managers often struggle to navigate. If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of toxic behavior—or wondered where the line is between "difficult" and "dangerous"—this episode is for you.

Buckle up, HR travelers! In this nostalgic and hilarious episode of HR Stew, we fire up the time machine and take a trip through the evolution of Human Resources—from paper files to AI recruiting and remote work. Hosts Regina and Holly compare the workplace of the past to today’s modern office, tackling everything from dress codes and hiring practices to team-building retreats and wellness perks. Which was better: faxed resumes or filtered inboxes? Offsite retreats or virtual trivia? Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a few smoky flashbacks you won't believe were once totally normal.

In this episode of HR Stew, we’re decoding the secret language of HR—those polished, professional phrases that sometimes have a hidden reality. From job postings to performance reviews to corporate culture buzzwords, we’re pulling back the curtain on what HR says and what’s often really going on behind the scenes. Joined by special guest Shelby Evans, we break down phrases like “We’re looking for a team player” (translation: you’ll be doing three jobs) and “We have an open-door policy” (but does anyone actually use it?). Tune in for laughs, insights, and maybe even a few workplace red flags to watch out for!

Disclaimer:

This episode of HR Stew – '2024 in Review' was recorded in early January 2025, prior to Executive Order 14173, titled Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, which was issued on January 21, 2025. Discussions related to SHRM’s removal of the ‘E’ from DEI and broader DEI trends reflect the landscape at the time of recording and may not fully account for subsequent policy changes.

The holidays are here, and with them come the traditions, celebrations, and occasional awkward moments unique to the workplace. In this festive episode of HR Stew, we explore the best and worst of holiday office dynamics. From thoughtful gift-giving and the chaos of white elephant exchanges to the dos and don’ts of holiday parties, we unpack it all. Join hosts Regina & Holly accompanied by special guest Andrea Castro as they share personal stories, offer practical tips, and reflect on how to keep the holidays fun, inclusive, and professional. Tune in for plenty of laughs, insightful advice, and maybe even a few holiday horror stories!

Warning:

This episode includes discussion of – domestic violence and violence involving children. Listener discretion advised.

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In this special Halloween edition of HR Stew, we dive into real-life workplace horror stories that are guaranteed to send shivers down your spine. From terrifying threats to mysterious disappearances, these stories show that sometimes the scariest place is the office. Join Regina and Holly as they share chilling tales of office life gone wrong—and explore how to handle these nightmarish situations. Whether it’s the fear of retaliation, eerie co-workers, or unresolved mysteries, these stories will have you rethinking what "workplace horror" really means!