Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave are joined by Jeff Nowak to talk about how a moment of professional curiosity turned into a deep focus on the FMLA and ADA – and eventually into one of Littler’s most comprehensive master classes. Jeff shares how practical storytelling, real-world scenarios, and fast-moving case law shape the way he practices and teaches in this space.

The conversation covers reasonable accommodation, remote work, neurodiversity, mental health, performance management, and why the interactive process remains a constant through it all. Along the way, Jeff introduces a few familiar (and fictional) employees, explains how recent court decisions are influencing employer approaches, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a course designed to meet people wherever they are.

And if this episode leaves you wanting more, Jeff’s FMLA and ADA Master Class kicks off March 3-6, 2026. Four full days of instruction, with a return session later in the year to cover the updates that will inevitably follow.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-so-much-fmla-so-little-time-preview-littlers-fmla-and-ada

Employee discipline may not sound like party conversation, but stay with us – this one’s worth a refill. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave welcome Kat Siegel, Executive Director of Littler’s Labor Practice, to the lounge for a conversation inspired by a common workplace moment: good intentions, solid decisions, and a process that doesn’t always get the same memo.

Together, they unpack what thoughtful corrective action looks like in the real world, sharing practical insights on investigations, documentation, consistency, and the ever intriguing idea of “just cause.” Kat brings clarity to a topic that’s often overcomplicated, showing how clear policies, steady decision making, and a focus on fairness can make the process feel far more manageable. The conversation demystifies employee discipline and brings added perspective – and a little breathing room – to the process.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-just-cause-chat-about-corrective-actions

New year, same Lounge – and we’re kicking off 2026 with a topic that proves procedural questions can have surprisingly big consequences.

Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave welcome Rich Black and Josh Waxman as the first guests of the year for a conversation that starts with a Supreme Court update and quickly turns into a guided tour of how collective actions actually get off the ground. From the different ways courts approach notice in FLSA, ADEA and EPA cases to how early decisions can put pressure on employers to settle, the discussion looks at how procedural details can shape the life of a case.

Rich and Josh also share what it was like to help prepare an amicus brief on the issue, what employers are seeing across different jurisdictions, and how procedural rules can look dramatically different once you cross a circuit line. It’s a timely conversation for anyone keeping an eye on collective actions – especially the early decisions that tend to set the tone for everything that follows.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-new-year-familiar-fight-collective-actions-back-spotlight

As 2026 approaches, workplace regulations are shaking up the scene – and Maureen Lavery from Littler’s Knowledge Management team joins Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave to help employers stay ahead of the curve. The trio dives into new legislation and regulatory trends set to impact organizations in the coming year. From Connecticut’s paid sick leave expansion (spoiler: almost everyone’s invited), Colorado’s first-in-the-nation NICU leave, and Minnesota’s meal and rest break overhaul, the team tackles compliance changes with the energy of people who’ve had one too many krumkake. Plus, a round of predictions for what’s next in anti-TRAP laws, AI in hiring, menopause accommodations, and immigration protections – helping employers prepare for what could be ahead.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-ahead-bill-curve-2026-legislative-look-ahead

This episode kicks off with a little red-carpet flair – Littler’s Stephan Swinkels returns from the 2025 European Executive Employer conference in London to share the inside scoop. Hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason get the unfiltered download – straight from the source as they dive into the findings from Littler's 2025 European Employer Survey Report, spotlighting workplace trends shaking up Europe – from pay transparency and the EU AI Act to IE&D and return to work policies.

Whether you’re navigating new regulations, planning ahead, or trying to make sense of how EU directives intersect with local implementation, this conversation bridges the U.S. patchwork of state and local laws with the European landscape – offering practical insights and fresh perspectives to help employers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-european-employer-edition-policy-shifts-workplace-solutions

The holidays are here, and so are the workplace traditions that make this season sparkle. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave, joined by Littler Shareholder Charlotte Main, dive into the practical realities of the holiday season for employers and HR leaders. Together, they unwrap the fun side of year-end celebrations – from creative ways to show appreciation (turkey, anyone?) to holiday bonuses, charitable initiatives, and the art of surviving the office party without starring in next year’s cautionary tale. Listeners will discover how organizations can keep celebrations inclusive, compliant, and memorable – while sidestepping legal hangovers and avoiding the jelly-of-the-month club.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-festive-compliance-unwrapping-holiday-parties-bonuses-and

Open enrollment: the time of year when HR professionals load up on caffeine and employees wonder if “PPO” is a new streaming service. In this episode, hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave invite benefits attorney Anne Sanchez to help decode health plans, compliance, and the latest shiny objects in workplace benefits. From the great PPO vs. high-deductible debate to the lively world of wage deductions (spoiler: it’s not just about your lunch money), Anne shares practical advice, emphasizes the importance of communication, and helps set the stage for a smoother paperwork season.

Curious about what’s trending in benefits this year, like GLP-1 programs or new approaches to fertility? Ready to brush up on clear communication and compliance tips? Pull up a chair and join the conversation – your benefits questions are welcome, and fresh perspectives are guaranteed.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-ppos-perks-understanding-employee-benefits-landscape

In this episode, Pro Bono Committee Member Lavanga Wijekoon speaks with fellow Pro Bono Committee Member Dave Haase, Paralegal Bahar Azari, and Attorney Practice Coordinator Una Pavlovic about their experience partnering with the National Immigrant Justice Center to host a pro bono clinic for migrant families seeking asylum in the U.S. The team shares stories of working with individuals from around the world, the challenges of preparing asylum applications, and the personal impact of helping those fleeing persecution and hardship. Their reflections highlight the importance of teamwork and the deep connections formed through pro bono service.

As part of the annual National Celebration of Pro Bono hosted by the American Bar Association, Littler is proud to highlight the outstanding pro bono efforts of our attorneys and professional staff. Through dedicated service to organizations in their communities, our firm continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to making a meaningful difference.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/pro-bono-week-podcast-helping-migrant-families-littlers-attorneys-and-staff

Associate Kim Rivera joins Pro Bono Committee Member Dave Haase to share the story of a high-stakes pro bono case involving an international custody dispute under the Hague Convention. After an initial loss at trial, Kim’s advocacy led to a successful appeal, allowing her client’s children to remain safely in the U.S. The episode highlights the impact of pro bono work and the importance of legal representation for those in need.

As part of the annual National Celebration of Pro Bono hosted by the American Bar Association, Littler is proud to highlight the outstanding pro bono efforts of our attorneys and professional staff. Through dedicated service to organizations in their communities, our firm continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to making a meaningful difference.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/pro-bono-week-podcast-advocacy-across-borders-hague-convention-success-story

Pro Bono Committee Members Brandon Mita and Steve Biddle speak with Associates Sarah Boxer and Lillian Manning about their experiences tackling the justice gap – the difference between the civil legal needs of low-income Americans and the resources available to meet those needs. Sarah and Lillian share how they partner with local legal aid organizations to provide vital services, from helping unaccompanied minors and survivors of domestic violence to supporting small businesses and nonprofits. The conversation offers practical advice for attorneys looking to get involved.

As part of the annual National Celebration of Pro Bono hosted by the American Bar Association, Littler is proud to highlight the outstanding pro bono efforts of our attorneys and professional staff. Through dedicated service to organizations in their communities, our firm continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to making a meaningful difference.

https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/pro-bono-week-podcast-bridging-justice-gap