NOW of Work

Hosts, Jess Von Bank and Jason Averbook are joined by UKG's Julie Develin. Together they reflect on the challenges and changes brought by the New Year, particularly focusing on the situation in Minneapolis. They discuss the importance of empathy and community support during difficult times, the evolving role of AI in the workplace, and the need to empower frontline workers. The conversation emphasizes personal responsibility in learning and adapting to new technologies while finding joy in everyday life.

• UKG’s 2026 Megatrends:  https://www.ukg.com/learn/resources/ebook/workplace-evolution-megatrends-defining-2026-and-beyond
• UKG’s 2026 Megatrends press release: https://www.ukg.com/company/newsroom/ukg-reveals-2026-trends-reshaping-workforce-ai-without-trust-fails-talent-models-must-flex-and-employee-enablement-era-begins
• UKG's new global study highlighting frontline work preferences that dropped this week: https://www.ukg.com/company/newsroom/global-study-reveals-flexibility-and-financial-wellness-are-top-2026-priorities-frontline-workers
• UKG's new and upcoming podcast "When Work Works"  https://www.ukg.com/podcast

Sarika Lamont joins Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank for the last Digital Meetup of the year to explore the evolving landscape of work, focusing on community engagement, personal growth, and the impact of AI on workplace dynamics. The speakers reflect on their experiences in 2025, emphasizing the importance of belonging, innovation, and the need for reskilling in a rapidly changing environment. They discuss the challenges faced by middle management and the necessity of open communication to foster a culture of collaboration and adaptability. Looking ahead to 2026, they highlight the potential for composable software and the importance of creating value in a capitalist society while navigating the complexities of talent management and employee agency.

SAVI's, Lance Thompson , joins Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank to explore the intersection of AI and hospitality, focusing on personal stories, the importance of communication, and the evolving role of technology in enhancing employee and customer experiences. The speakers share insights on how AI can support hospitality operations, improve employee satisfaction, and create a more seamless experience for guests. They also discuss the balance between technology and human interaction, emphasizing the need for thoughtful implementation of AI tools in the industry.

In this episode, we dive into the future of Talent Acquisition with AI at its core. Dominik Hahn, Global Head of Group Talent Acquisition at Allianz, joins Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank to explore how organizations can responsibly harness AI to transform recruiting on a global scale. Tune in to hear insights on enhancing candidate experience while maintaining the human touch, building trust through ethical AI practices, and scaling recruitment technology across diverse regions and business lines. Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation on the evolving landscape of recruitment in the age of AI.

In this episode, Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank are joined by PopCandi.ai's Patrick Payne to discuss the intersection of technology and human interaction in the world of talent acquisition. Our guests discuss the evolving role of AI in hiring, the importance of maintaining human touch, and the future of work. Discover how innovative platforms like Pop Candy AI are reshaping the recruitment landscape, blending efficiency with personal connection. Tune in for insights, humor, and a fresh perspective on the ever-changing job market.

Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank are joined by ⁠Joey Price⁠. to discuss the importance of empathy and self-awareness as antidotes to loneliness, especially in the context of AI’s growing presence. The group reflects on insights from industry thought leaders like Scott Galloway and explores how technology can enhance efficiency while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human decision-making and emotional intelligence. The episode also features personal anecdotes, cultural references, and a sense of camaraderie, underscoring the podcast’s focus on navigating the next chapter of work with purpose, agility, and impact.

The conversation explores various themes including personal updates, reflections on life events, the impact of AI on the job market, and the evolving role of HR in organizations. The speakers share personal stories, discuss healthcare innovations, and delve into the ethical considerations of cloning pets. They also highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making in HR and the need for a shift in how organizations approach talent management.

Jason Averbook and Jess Von Bank are joined by Joey Price. to discuss the importance of empathy and self-awareness as antidotes to loneliness, especially in the context of AI’s growing presence. The group reflects on insights from industry thought leaders like Scott Galloway and explores how technology can enhance efficiency while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human decision-making and emotional intelligence. The episode also features personal anecdotes, cultural references, and a sense of camaraderie, underscoring the podcast’s focus on navigating the next chapter of work with purpose, agility, and impact.

The conversation explores the evolving dynamics of the workplace in the context of AI and automation, highlighting the increasing impersonal nature of employee experiences during onboarding and offboarding. It emphasizes the need for individuals to prioritize their own well-being and loyalty to themselves, rather than solely to their employers.

Jess Von Bank and Jason Averbook cover a whirlwind of topics from the excitement of Halloween preparations to the profound reflections on human connection in the age of AI. Our hosts share personal stories, including a heartwarming football comeback of Jason's son and the challenges of parenting through tough times. With engaging discussions on the impact of technology on loneliness and the importance of maintaining genuine human interactions, this episode is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Tune in for a mix of humor, insight, and community spirit!