NextGen Work Culture: HR, Management, Inclusive Parent-Friendly Work Environment, Employee Recruitment and Retention, Talent Development

In this episode, Emily Stone, a certified breastfeeding counselor and founder of Empowered Breastfeeding Bootcamp talks with Kortney about the logistics of breastfeeding and pumping. ​

We dive into the challenges working moms face when returning to work, especially in a country like the United States where paid maternity leave is not the norm. Emily shares invaluable advice on how moms can prepare for breastfeeding after returning to work, including the importance of establishing a strong milk supply through direct nursing first. She also shares the critical role employers play in supporting lactation, from creating a comfortable pumping environment to being flexible and understanding. 

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Connect with today's guest:

As a mother of three, Emily has experienced firsthand the challenges of birthing and breastfeeding, each time feeling like an unguided DIY project. 

Recognizing the limitations of traditional, medicalized prenatal support, she embraced a holistic approach that values the mind-body-spirit connection in nurturing new life.

Emily created Empowered Breastfeeding Bootcamp™, a comprehensive, holistic, and on-demand breastfeeding course and community. She also hosts local support groups and is a certified Lactation Counselor.

LinkedIn: Emily J Stone

www.empoweredbumpsandboobs.com

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KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

In this episode, we dive into the innovative world of lactation pods with Sascha Meyer, Co-founder and Chief Experience Officer of Mamava. We talk about how Sascha and her co-founder developed the category of lactation pods that are changing the landscape for breastfeeding parents in public places and workspaces. Learn about the challenges that sparked the inception of these pods, the thoughtful design elements that make them both functional and inviting, and how Mamava is advocating for better breastfeeding policies. We also talk about how to develop a family-friendly work culture, whether it's in a remote business or manufacturing. Whether you’re a working parent, an employer looking to support your workforce, or just curious about the intersection of design and social good, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Connect with today's guest:

www.mamava.com

Sasha's podcast: www.mamava.com/the-bodacious-optimist-podcast

Sascha Mayer is a recognized expert on lactation space design, family-friendly workplace policies, and social entrepreneurial leadership. A seasoned brand strategist, she has worked with Levi’s, Lululemon, Nike Women, and Seventh Generation. When she’s not designing new ways to support breastfeeding parents, she’s gardening and tending her chickens.

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

Kate Torgerson joins Kortney on the podcast to share more about her company, MilkStork. Kate tells her personal story that sparked the creation of MilkStork, the first breast milk shipping company and discusses how her company is making a huge difference for working parents, military families, and even Olympic athletes.

In this episode, we'll learn about the challenges faced by breastfeeding and pumping parents, the logistical nightmares of traveling while maintaining a supply of breast milk, and how MilkStork is stepping in to bridge the gap. Kate also talks about why businesses should invest in milk shipping as a benefit for their employees and how it can lead to a more supportive and family-friendly workplace culture.

We also touch on the broader implications for women's choices and mental health, the importance of normalizing the experience of pumping parents, and the strides being made by progressive employers to support their teams.

Register for the webinar with Kortney and MilkStork:

How HR Leaders Can Unlock the Power and ROI of Parental Support Programs

Learn more about MilkStork:

www.milkstork.com

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

In this episode, Kortney speaks with Louise Siwiki, a fertility empowerment coach, about navigating infertility in the workplace. Louise shares her personal journey of overcoming infertility and the importance of holistic support for individuals struggling with fertility issues. They dive into the impact of infertility on mental health, the demands of fertility treatments, and the need for awareness and support in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the recent advancements in Australia in recognizing pregnancy loss and the importance of destigmatizing taboo topics like fertility and breastfeeding in society.

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As a global award-winning Executive Fertility Coach and a passionate Fertility in the Workplace Advocate, Louise Siwiki is dedicated to improving fertility awareness and support in global and Australian workplaces. Her role as Head of Country Development for the European Fertility Society underscores her commitment to integrating holistic fertility strategies within corporate settings and for individuals.

Louise specializes in transforming your chaos into calm! And enhancing workplace environments to address the psychological impacts of fertility challenges, promoting well-being, inclusivity, and resilience among employees navigating their fertility journeys.

Www.linkedin.com/louisesiwicki

Www.louisesiwicki.com

www.instagram.com/louise.siwicki

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

This solo episode dives into how HR departments can enhance communication and employee education to better support working parents. We'll explore the importance of regular benefits reminders, standardized communication for new and returning parents, and the creation of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). Additionally, we'll talk about the importance of employee education on workplace rights under the PWFA and PUMP Act. Uncover actionable steps to build a more inclusive, supportive, and family-friendly workplace culture.

To download a free pdf to accompany this episode visit: https://mailchi.mp/rosslearningsolutions/communications

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

In this episode, Kortney chats with Eric Girard, CEO of Girard Training Solutions and author of the book "Lead Like a Pro," about empathy and trust in leadership. They dive into why empathy is essential for managers and how it can amp up business success. From practical tips to hilarious monkey metaphors, they break down the nitty-gritty of building trust and relationships in the workplace. Join us for an insightful conversation on how cultivating empathy and trust can elevate work relationships and drive productivity.

Connect with today's guest:

Eric Girard

Eric's Website

Eric's Facebook page

@eric.p.girard on Instagram

Eric on YouTube

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

In this episode, we're delving into the transformative journey of Sarah Willoughby, author of the book "Infertility Saved My Life." Sarah brings a wealth of experience from her ten years in corporate HR to her current role as a transformation coach, fertility coach, author, speaker, and energy healer.

In this moving conversation, Sarah opens up about her struggles with secondary infertility while navigating the expectations of a demanding corporate career. She shares the harrowing experience of undergoing an IVF cycle abroad, which led to a life-threatening situation and a radical shift in her life. Sarah’s journey led her to leave the corporate world, emigrate to Australia, and embrace a life centered around mindfulness, meditation, and personal empowerment.

This episode is a testament to the importance of compassion and empathy in the workplace, particularly for those facing the silent struggles of infertility.

About Sarah Willoughby

Transformation coach, fertility coach, speaker and bestselling author Sarah Willoughby, with a background in corporate human resources, draws on her challenging journey to self-love through secondary infertility, grief, and emigration, to guide women in reconnecting with their inner selves. Through her powerful message of resilience and well-being prioritization, Sarah empowers women to heal, face their fears and embrace their true potential so they can consciously create the lives they deserve. As the author of 'Infertility Saved My Life,' Sarah chronicles her remarkable story of resilience and triumph over a life-threatening IVF cycle and the creation of a heart-centered life and business in Australia. Today Sarah cherishes moments in nature alongside her greatest teachers – her three beautiful children.

Sarah's Facebook page

@sarahwilloughbyaustralia on Instagram

Sarah's Website

Sarah on YouTube

Connect with us at:

KortneyRoss.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

On this episode of NextGen Work Culture, we delve into the experiences of Veronica Malolos, a seasoned commercial real estate broker, founder of Capstack Commercial, host of the Women Influencers podcast, and a passionate advocate for DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). In our conversation, Veronica shares her journey as a woman, an immigrant, and a mother navigating the male-dominated real estate industry. We also explore the challenges of balancing motherhood with professional aspirations, including a candid discussion about the realities of breastfeeding and parenthood in the workplace. Additionally, Veronica discusses the importance of diverse teams and thoughts in driving business success. Join us as we uncover the insights and inspirations from Veronica's multifaceted life and career.

Connect with today's guest:

Connect with us at:

RossLearningSolutions.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

Join Kerri and Kortney as they explore the concept of "askholes" and their impact on workplace dynamics. Kerri introduces the term, describing how it stems from stress and busyness, leading to unproductive behaviors and strained team relationships. The episode discusses practical strategies to combat askhole behaviors, emphasizing the importance of checking your own feelings, active listening, and open-ended questioning to foster healthier work environments.

Learn to recognize and address ask hole dynamics within teams with Kerri's book, Leading out of the ASKhole™ Trap. Tune in to learn how to navigate these challenges and cultivate more effective and supportive work cultures by addressing underlying communication issues.

Connect with today's guest:

Leading out of the ASKhole™ Trap book

Email:  [email protected]

 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046661383779

 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-burchill-phd-pcc-41282261/

 YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB9FMmSqRHjHy-R38sXCeTA

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriburchill/

 Kerri’s Website: https://Kerriburchill.com 

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KortneyRoss.com

Download the NextGen Work Culture Framework

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

The Future-Ready Work Culture Framework will help you foster a work environment that is ready for the next generation of employees and supportive of those who are raising them.

Employees are seeking workplaces that are supportive, empathetic, and family-friendly. By taking the time to build a family-friendly work culture, you are setting your organization up for success for years to come.

With a little bit of planning and perseverance, this framework will help your company create a work culture where everyone feels valued and included, even busy working parents.

Download the framework at kortneyross.com/framework

Book a call with me at: calendly.com/rosslearning/30min

Connect with us at:

RossLearningSolutions.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture