Paychex THRIVE, a Business Podcast

In this week’s episode, Gene Marks takes a look at what’s happening around the country following elections at the state level. California, which historically gets out in front of others to set trends on legislation, has new laws regarding discrimination enforcement and driver’s licenses related to employment. Other states have minimum wage changes and ballot initiatives on paid leave, and New Jersey is flush with money for construction. Listen to the podcast for details. 

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In the aftermath of a heated election, managing politics in the workplace is more important than ever. On this episode of Paychex THRIVE, Gene is joined by Paychex Talent Enablement Partners Alisha Moberly and Lisa Reyes to share practical ways to manage political discussions and potential conflicts at work. Learn about different tolerance approaches for political expression, the importance of establishing clear policies, and how to equip leadership to handle these challenges. Plus, hear what a new administration could mean for your business.

For more in-depth information on managing politics in the workplace, check out Alisha’s and Lisa’s on-demand webinar: https://bit.ly/3CwGqHv

Topics include:

00:00 – Episode preview and welcome

00:38 – Introduction of guests Alicia Moberly and Lisa Reyes

01:08 – Explanation of what Talent Enablement Partners

01:57 – Specific services provided to support Paychex customers

02:55 – Start of discussion about navigating politics in the workplace

04:31 – Encouraging post-election workplace civility

06:49 – Differences between employer's political stance and tolerance in the workplace

08:06 – Approaches for political tolerance in the workplace

10:37 – Perspectives on employers taking a political stance

12:28 – Establishing and enforcing political tolerance policies

18:45 – Managing and mitigating conflicts related to politics

20:10 – Importance of leadership training

21:20 – Managing political differences with customers

23:06 – New administration's impact on employers

26:09 – Upcoming regulatory changes

27:14 – Wrap up and thank you

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Economists have said that with tariffs comes inflationary pressure and with tax cuts comes deficits, but there have been some lights around the stock index futures. So, as with any new administration there are pros and cons. Gene Marks comments on what small businesses might be facing. In other news, an EEOC decision has made zero proof a standard for employee religious accommodation, and order fancy drinks at your wallet’s risk because hidden fees are shaking people down. Listen to the episode.

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The real estate industry is in a state of flux, with shifting interest rates, inventory levels, and market dynamics creating both challenges and opportunities for buyers, sellers, and agents alike. On this episode of Paychex THRIVE, Tracy Tutor, a top real estate agent, best-selling author, and star of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, shares her invaluable insights into the current state of the market and strategies for navigating these changes. Tracy also gives us a peek into the day-to-day realities of a luxury real estate agent, debunking the glamorous portrayal often seen on TV — behind the scenes, it's a grind that requires dedication, strategic planning, and the ability to adapt quickly.

Topics include:

00:00 – Episode preview and welcome

01:19 – Introduction of Tracy Tutor

02:46 – Tracy’s general overview of the real estate industry

05:15 – Impact of interest rates on real estate market

06:36 – Advice for buyers in the current market

09:36 – New taxes in California's luxury real estate market

12:02 – Strategies for real estate brokers in changing market conditions

14:19 – The National Association of Realtors (NAR) decision impact

17:52 – Importance of commission negotiation and education

20:27 – Misconceptions about real estate TV shows and reality

21:17 – A day in the life of a luxury estate agent

25:07 – Work-life balance and setting boundaries

27:01 – Thoughts on hiring and team building

28:50 – Wrap up and thank

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There are still funds to be found for businesses in 2024 that could set them up for 2025, and Gene Marks provides a roadmap. Businesses working in tech that supports capabilities that could benefit national defense can find a source in a new SBA program. There are grants available for education, and women startups that have a viable product prototype, not to mention grants available to restaurants who are recovering from natural disasters. Gene shares the names of the resource hubs, as well as a study that says people who give money to their children might not be gaining the expected impact. Listen to the podcast.

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Small businesses expressed that inflation is their top concern with 93% of those surveyed indicating that for the past three years that it has been their primary focal point. Gene Marks shares the other concerns businesses have ahead of the election. This episode also focuses on how employers plan to use AI in hiring and the impact that could have. And for those who have pushed for a shorter work week, look to Iceland for the positive impacts such a move could produce. Listen to the podcast.

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We conclude our series live from the floor of HR Tech 2024 with John Phillips, vice president and general manager of Findem, an AI-driven talent acquisition platform. John explores how AI is reshaping the way businesses of all sizes connect with top talent — and it’s not just about speed and efficiency. The traditional "post and pray" model is being replaced by a more dynamic, targeted, and human-centric process. Curious how AI can help build stronger connections, reduce bias, and find the perfect fit beyond the resume? It’s all in this episode of Paychex THRIVE.

Topics include:

00:00 – Episode preview and welcome

01:21 – Introduction of John Phillips

01:46 – HR Tech 2024 highlights and trends

02:33 – Discussion on changing workforce demographics

03:46 – Impact of data consumption on younger generations

04:12 – Recruiting evolution and technology

05:17 – How AI enhances recruitment processes

07:00 – Speed and efficiency in hiring

08:12 – AI's role in inclusivity and reducing bias

12:16 – Creating a talent-first culture

13:29 – Benefits of efficient recruitment processes

13:57 – Wrap up and thank you

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A study by the Small Business Administration reveals that breached records can cost as much as $164 per record and the cost of a breach to businesses with less than 500 employees can be as high as $3 million. Gene Marks shares some tips during Cybersecurity Month to help your businesses understand and mitigate threats. Gene also shares the skinny on the latest healthcare benefit employees seek; weight loss drugs. However, only 18% of businesses are offering it on their plans. Gene shares insights on the trend, as well as why one retail association predicts growth for the holiday season. Listen to the podcast.

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Feeling workplace dynamics shift under your feet? With at least five generations now sharing office space, the old one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t cut it anymore. On this episode of Paychex THRIVE, live from HR Tech 2024, we chat with Pete Tiliakos from GxT Advisors about a hot topic at the conference — the diverse expectations of a multigenerational workforce. As businesses grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by Millennials and Gen Z employees, Tiliakos shares how technology is key in bridging generational divides and creating a workplace where everyone thrives.

Topics include:

00:00 – Episode preview and welcome

01:26 – Introduction of Pete Tiliakos

02:18 – HR Tech 2024 highlights and trends

03:00 – Impact of evolving workforce needs

04:27 – Compensation strategies and technology

05:59 – Technology's role in pay experience

07:02 – Big data and tech for SMBs

08:12 – Empowerment through technology

09:01 – Evolution of HR and payroll roles

10:16 – Future of HR tech and AI

11:11 – Importance of human capital

12:08 – Crystal ball time: Predicting future trends

14:12 – Top three actions for a culture-first organization

16:27 – Wrap up and thank you

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Owners of trades businesses such as plumbing and HVAC outfits are becoming millionaires by selling their businesses. Gene Marks looks at who and what is behind this latest trend. Also on this episode, Gene shares the findings of a survey that shows nearly three-quarters of business owners plan to replace their point-of-sale systems. What will this mean for customers and the business? In other trends, many business leaders are thinking about rescinding their work-from-home policy, which Gene doesn’t agree with. Listen to why he thinks this might not be a great move for anyone.

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