The BARF

The BARF

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The BARF episodes

  • The Engagement Dilemma: Burnout, Layoffs, and the Future of Work

    Employee engagement is anything but one-size-fits-all. Burnout is rising, workplace discrimination cases keep making headlines, and companies are doubling down on corporate accountability (or avoiding it altogether). Meanwhile, job mobility is skyrocketing as workers chase better pay, and remote work continues to reshape employee expectations. Add in the rising skepticism around MBAs and a wave of strategic layoffs, and it’s clear: the workforce is in flux.


    In this episode, we look at employee engagement, burnout, workplace discrimination, corporate accountability, pregnancy rights, employment trends, MBA value, acquisitions, layoffs, remote work, job mobility, employee communication, HR technology, funding, fleet safety, economic trends, workforce changes, employee expectations. From HR tech innovations to fleet safety advancements, we unpack what’s shifting in the job market and how companies—and employees—are adapting.


    Key Takeaways
    1. Employee engagement isn’t universal—what works for one doesn’t work for all.
    2. Burnout rates are surging, and engaged employees are significantly less affected.
    3. Workplace discrimination lawsuits continue to push corporate accountability forward.
    4. Pregnancy rights remain a battleground in many industries.
    5. Layoffs are projected to rise, with 46% of employers considering cuts in 2025.
    6. MBA programs are losing value in a rapidly changing job market.
    7. Acquisitions and corporate roll-ups are reshaping industry power dynamics.
    8. Remote work is still a major factor in retention and job satisfaction.
    9. Workers are increasingly treating the job market like free agency, hopping for better pay.
    10. The communication gap between leadership and employees is wider than ever.
    11. HR tech funding is booming, signaling more automation in hiring and workforce management.
    12. Fleet safety innovations are evolving to combat distracted and drowsy driving.


      13. Chapters:


      00:00 Introduction and Context Setting

      01:24Sports Talk and Team Dynamics

      04:31 Diversity in Executive Roles

      07:23 Corporate Layoffs and Communication Failures

      10:17 Discrimination Settlements and Corporate Accountability

      13:25 Pregnancy Discrimination and Workplace Rights

      16:23 Financial Struggles of Clinicians

      19:23 The Future of Management in an AI World

      20:46The Changing Landscape of MBA Graduates

      25:05 Acquisitions in the Corporate World

      34:25 Layoffs and Workforce Dynamics

      38:23 The Remote Work Debate

      42:11 Job Hopping for Better Pay

      45:19 Communication Gaps in Organizations

      47:28 Understanding Business Goals and Employee Incentives

      49:06 The Importance of Effective Communication in Corporations

      51:11 Innovations in Internal Data Access and Security

      52:40 The Role of Consulting Firms in Future-Proofing Businesses

      54:20 Funding Trends in HR Tech and Automation

      55:53 AI-Driven Resume Tailoring for Job Seekers

      59:04 Safety Innovations in Fleet Management

      01:04:50 Enhancing Communication Governance in Business


      Connect with us:


      William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

      Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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      1 hr 9 min
    13. AI in the Workforce: Navigating DEI and Emerging Workplace Trends

      Summary:

      In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in today's workforce, examining its intersection with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and the broader workplace trends shaping the future. We discuss how AI is influencing company culture, impacting employee empowerment, and addressing skills gaps in the labor market. Additionally, we explore recent shifts in DEI strategies and the evolving expectations of employees in an AI-driven work environment.

      Key Takeaways:

      1. AI Integration: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing workforce dynamics, enhancing productivity, and creating new roles that require advanced skill sets.
      2. DEI Evolution: Companies are reassessing their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, with some scaling back initiatives, while studies indicate that robust DEI practices lead to greater innovation.
      3. Employee Empowerment: The rise of AI and flexible work models is shifting power dynamics, enabling employees to have more autonomy and say in their work environments.
      4. Skills Gap Challenge: Despite technological advancements, 63% of global employers still view the skills gap as a significant barrier to growth, highlighting the need for continuous learning and development.
      5. Workplace Trends: The future of work is being shaped by AI integration, evolving DEI efforts, and a focus on employee well-being, requiring organizations to adapt proactively to stay competitive.


        William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

        Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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        59 min
      6. The Future of Work: AI, Parental Leave, and California's Workforce Reforms

        California’s job policies are breaking barriers, AI is transforming the way businesses operate, and workplace flexibility is redefining employee loyalty. This episode dives into workplace challenges like mansplaining, shifting parental leave norms, and the ongoing wave of industry acquisitions shaping tomorrow’s workforce.

        In this episode, we look at California job policies, AI in business, workplace flexibility, employee loyalty, mansplaining, acquisitions, parental leave, workplace dynamics, leadership trends, workforce consolidation, and how companies like Netflix are setting new standards for employee benefits.

        Key Takeaways
        1. California is eliminating degree requirements to promote equitable hiring.
        2. AI is becoming the backbone of modern workforce strategies.
        3. Workplace flexibility directly correlates with improved employee retention.
        4. Mansplaining persists as a cultural challenge in workplace communication.
        5. Industry acquisitions signal rapid consolidation and market growth.
        6. Netflix’s parental leave update reflects shifting priorities in employee benefits.
        7. Honesty in the workplace is valued, but excessive transparency can backfire.
        8. Companies urge employees to embrace authenticity within professional boundaries.
        9. Effective job performance remains the cornerstone of career success.
        10. The evolving work environment demands adaptability and innovative strategies.
        11. AI-driven hiring strategies are paving the way for smarter recruitment.
        12. Leadership must navigate a complex blend of technology and human-centric policies.

          13. William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

          Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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          1 hr 4 min
        13. AI, Ethics, and Automation: Top Stories Shaping Workforces and Workplace Trends in 2024

          BARF is back, and we’re diving headfirst into AI’s growing role in the workplace, the ethical landmines of corporate policies, and the future of workforce automation. This week’s stories uncover the harsh realities of workplace culture, from harassment allegations to AI-driven layoffs—and the hidden costs of being “productive.”

          In this episode, we look at workforce automation, workplace ethics, AI decision-making, talent onboarding, leadership priorities, strategic acquisitions, workplace security, employee rights, HR tech funding, workplace trends, and productivity metrics. It’s all about the stories driving the HR conversation forward.

          Key Takeaways
          1. AI's Role in Decision-Making: Employees penalized for ignoring AI advice signals trust issues and human-AI dynamics in modern workplaces.
          2. Workplace Harassment: A reminder that ethics and safety should never play second fiddle to profit—teens entering the workforce deserve better safeguards.
          3. Rising Costs and Minimum Wage: The need to raise wages is more about dignity than dollars—because who can afford a $19 sandwich on $7.25 an hour?
          4. Automation’s Double-Edged Sword: Amazon’s most automated warehouse in Louisiana might be a glimpse into the future—where humans train their replacements.
          5. Global Expansion in HR Tech: Phenom’s thousand-person expansion in India underscores the globalization of HR solutions.
          6. HR and Work Tech Mergers: The Joined-Cloud Connectors merger reshapes integration, creating seamless solutions for the work tech landscape.
          7. Talent Verification Evolution: Spectre’s funding showcases the rising need for fraud prevention and AI-human applicant verification.
          8. AI in Workforce Management: Legion Technologies' $50M funding emphasizes efficiency in scheduling and time tracking over sheer productivity.
          9. Leadership During Change: Strategic acquisitions like Axios HQ’s purchase of Mixing Board redefine communications and talent priorities in HR.
          10. Future of Work Funding: Asterix Security and similar startups continue to attract investment to fortify workflow protections.
          11. Healthcare Workflow Innovation: Companies like Evidently are streamlining operations while consumers demand better patient experiences.
          12. HR’s Relationship With Productivity: Being the most productive shouldn’t come at the expense of mental health and employee well-being.


            Chapters:

            0:08 - It's time for the BARF

            0:42 - The Cold Office and Some Fun Banter  

            1:40 - The Business World Stuck in the '90s  

            2:17 - AI in Presentation Design  

            4:04 - EEOC Settlement for Harassment Allegations  

            7:18 - Teen Workforce Protection Needs  

            8:10 - Minimum Wage Debate  

            10:27 - AI Decision-Making in Workplaces  

            13:38 - Amazon’s Shreveport Warehouse and Automation  

            17:12 - Phenom Expands in India  

            19:27 - U.S. Productivity Versus Canada and EU  

            21:40 - Axios HQ Acquires Mixing Board  

            24:04 - Joined and Cloud Connectors Merger  

            27:13 - Evidently Raises $15M for Healthcare AI  

            28:56 - Asterix Security’s $45M Funding  

            30:21 - Relocation Management Spotlight  

            31:32 - Hiring Branch’s Series A  

            36:26 - Spectre’s Fraud Prevention Tech  

            38:36 - Let's get the F out of here


            William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

            Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

            Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

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            43 min
          13. The BARF: AI, DEI, Union Battles, Money, Morals, and Messy Workplaces

            In this episode, we tackle workplace power plays, leadership under fire, the rise of union battles, and how AI is reshaping hiring strategies. From housing market chaos to healthcare headaches, we’re breaking down the trends redefining HR and the future of work.

            Key Takeaways
            1. Family dynamics and financial decisions often spill over into work, driving employee priorities.
            2. Productivity during holidays smashes the myth that downtime kills efficiency.
            3. Hybrid workplaces are creating a caste system—and it’s getting messy.
            4. DEI initiatives are walking a tightrope between progress and shareholder backlash.
            5. Privacy concerns at work are the new battleground for corporate trust.
            6. Unionization efforts are hitting walls, thanks to political interference and outdated policies.
            7. AI recruitment tools are flipping the hiring script and slashing time-to-fill.
            8. HR tech funding is leaning toward small businesses pushing bold, creative solutions.
            9. Rising healthcare costs are forcing companies to rethink benefits, with remote healthcare leading the charge.
            10. The housing market squeeze isn’t just personal—it’s reshaping employer-employee dynamics.
            11. HR leaders are under pressure to lead the charge on adaptability and innovation.
            12. Daxter’s latest expansion shows how tech is setting new standards for workplace satisfaction.


              13. Chapters

              00:00 Family Surprises and Weekend Plans

              03:01 Financial Decisions and Responsibilities

              05:59 Workplace Dynamics and Employee Trust

              09:05 Corporate Policies and Employee Rights

              11:56 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Business

              15:11 Productivity During the Holiday Season

              18:02 Privacy Concerns in the Workplace

              22:53 The Impact of Leadership in a Polarized World

              24:55 Healthcare Challenges and Workforce Solutions

              28:30 Daxter's Expanding Product Line

              30:31 Unionization and Political Influence

              33:06 Recent Acquisitions in the Recruitment Sector

              40:41 Employee Wellbeing and Workplace Satisfaction

              43:55 High Volume Hiring Trends and Tools

              46:20 Housing Market Challenges

              47:26 Shifting Perspectives on DEI Initiatives

              50:37 The Future of HR Leadership

              53:51 Adapting HR Strategies to Employee Needs

              01:00:01 Innovations in Health Benefits Management

              01:02:48 Emerging Trends in Remote Healthcare

              01:06:39 Funding Trends in HR Tech

              01:10:41 AI Innovations in Recruitment


              William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

              Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

              Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

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              1 hr 10 min
            13. The BARF: Child Labor Lawsuit (Smithfield Foods), $3.1 Million in Sex Discrimination Settlement, Amazon's Disability Policies, and Citadel kills FAKE Job Postings...

              In this episode, we tackle key topics shaping work and HR, including meditation, sex discrimination lawsuits, layoffs, Amazon’s remote work policies, telehealth innovations, child labor violations, job postings, and AI’s role in gamifying training. Plus, we unpack career aspirations from a youth perspective and shifting workforce dynamics.

              Key Takeaways

              1. Meditation remains a challenge for many but is essential for workplace well-being.
              2. Reddit offers unfiltered insights into the realities of HR practices.
              3. Sex discrimination lawsuits expose systemic inequities that persist in the workplace.
              4. Remote work is gaining widespread acceptance across industries.
              5. Layoffs are often strategic maneuvers to prepare for IPOs or restructuring.
              6. Amazon’s work-from-home policies highlight the complexity of accommodating disabilities.
              7. Child labor violations continue to plague certain industries, demanding stricter oversight.
              8. Citadel's crackdown on fake job postings underscores the importance of employer transparency.
              9. Texas court rulings on overtime rules set a precedent for labor laws nationwide.
              10. AI-powered funding is driving workforce training innovations, reshaping employee development.
              11. Telehealth adoption is streamlining care without increasing unnecessary services.
              12. Youth perspectives reveal a focus on careers that inspire and support mental health.
              13. Gamified work solutions are boosting engagement and productivity across teams.
              14. Workforce trends show employees demanding more growth opportunities and better work-life balance.


                15. Chapters

                00:00 The Challenge of Meditation and Mindfulness

                02:55 HR Truths from Reddit: Insights and Realities

                05:56 Sex Discrimination Lawsuit: A Case Study

                09:03 The Shift to Remote Work: Positive Trends

                12:02 Investor Conflicts: The Workhuman Case

                14:56 Work-Life Balance: A Global Perspective

                17:59 Layoffs and Restructuring: Maven Clinic's Moves

                21:03 Amazon's Controversial Work from Home Policy

                23:57 Child Labor Violations: Smithfield Foods' Settlement

                26:45 Citadel's Stance on Fake Job Postings

                29:55 Overtime Rule Changes: Texas Court Ruling

                33:05 Acquisitions in HR Tech: B-Swift and Seek

                34:59 Youth Perspectives on Careers and Mental Health

                40:04 Workforce Trends and Job Market Dynamics

                44:59 Funding Innovations in Workforce Development


                William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

                Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

                Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

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                58 min
              15. Budget Cuts, Diversity Initiatives, Job Market Shifts, Skills-Based Hiring, and the Future of Workplace Culture

                The world of work is in flux. This episode dives deep into why big conferences are out and targeted gatherings are in, with a focus on driving genuine connections and actionable value. We don’t stop there—Boeing’s controversial DEI moves, job market uncertainties, and recent business acquisitions are all on the table. We’re calling out major corporate shifts, from the evolving language of diversity to the mounting legal recognition for gig workers. The take? It’s time to rethink how we invest in events, engage employees, and respond to the ever-changing job market.

                In this episode, we look at HR tech, budget cuts, events strategy, diversity initiatives, job market trends, gig economy shifts, workplace culture, employee recognition, corporate acquisitions, skills-based hiring, generational workplace differences, and new funding paths for workforce innovation.


                Key Takeaways:

                • Boeing wraps up strike with a 38% pay increase while cutting DEI departments, stirring concerns over the timing and priorities.
                • October’s job growth falls short with just 12,000 new roles added, hinting at broader economic challenges.
                • “Equity” is dropped from DEI initiatives as controversy grows, shifting focus to Diversity and Inclusion alone.
                • UK tribunal grants Bolt drivers “worker” status, bringing potential cost hikes with added benefits like holiday pay.
                • Librarians are experiencing burnout due to increased social service demands, highlighting mental health strains in unexpected professions.
                • Alphabet faces backlash after announcing budget cuts on Halloween, unnerving employees with its Grim Reaper costume timing.
                • Aetna’s new SimplePay model simplifies healthcare access with no deductibles, potentially shifting patient care expectations.
                • The New York Times Tech Guild strikes for hybrid work and pay equity, leveraging pre-election timing for impact.
                • Salesforce acquires AI voice firm Tenyx, enhancing its automation capabilities, especially in service-driven industries.
                • "Office Workhorse" study shows 61% of employees feel undervalued, with high burnout among Gen X, spotlighting workplace well-being concerns.


                  • Chapters

                  00:00 Kicking it off

                  03:02 Reflections on Recent Events and Elections

                  06:01 Trends in Conference Attendance and Budgeting

                  09:03 The Shift in Event Goals and ROI

                  12:04 Content Quality and Engagement at Events

                  15:00 Future of Events: Smaller Gatherings and User Conferences

                  19:19 The Value of Learning at Events

                  22:16 Shifting Event Landscapes and Marketing Strategies

                  23:58 The Importance of Recognition in HR Tech

                  24:15 Boeing's Controversial Decisions

                  26:06 Job Market Trends and Economic Indicators

                  28:19 The Evolving Language of Diversity and Inclusion

                  30:39 Gig Economy and Employment Classifications

                  34:00 Challenges Faced by Librarians Today

                  37:53 The Joy of Reading and Book Recommendations

                  39:54 Historical Discrimination and Legal Battles

                  43:11 Corporate Culture and Employee Engagement

                  46:47 Healthcare Challenges and Innovations

                  51:01 Strikes and Employee Rights

                  54:25 Diversity in Hiring Practices

                  56:54 Acquisitions and Business Growth

                  57:11 Salesforce's Strategic Acquisition

                  01:00:00 First Advantage and Sterling Check Merger

                  01:01:25 The Workhorse Mentality in the Workplace

                  01:08:15 Funding Innovations in the Workforce

                  01:11:20 Closing Thoughts and Reflections


                  Kate Achille: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieachille/

                  William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

                  Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

                  Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

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                  Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

                  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

                  1 hr 14 min
                • THE BARF: Gen Z Expectations, AI in Recruitment, and DEI Trends Shaping the Future of Work

                  The 'sober curious' trend is reshaping social norms, while AI tools like LinkedIn's hiring assistant are transforming recruitment. We’re tackling tribal employment rights, political impacts on hiring, and the generational shift in workplace expectations, from DEI demands to innovative benefits that boost retention.

                  In this episode, we look at AI hiring tools, DEI, Gen Z workplace behavior, recruitment technology, employee benefits, workplace religion, and mental health, diving into the HR trends shaping today’s workforce.


                  Key Takeaways:

                  • The 'sober curious' trend reflects a shift in Gen Z’s attitudes toward alcohol, impacting workplace culture.
                  • Emphasizing tribal employment rights supports equitable labor practices and cultural recognition.
                  • AI-powered recruitment tools, like LinkedIn's assistant, streamline hiring and improve candidate matching.
                  • Political shifts directly influence recruitment policies, impacting diversity and employee rights.
                  • Religious accommodations in the workplace are increasingly complex and context-dependent.
                  • Gen Z prioritizes DEI and mental health, driving HR to adopt more inclusive policies.
                  • Innovative childcare solutions boost retention and attract talent in a competitive market.
                  • Google’s expanded employee benefits, including death benefits, set a new standard in workforce support.
                  • Recent acquisitions in workforce management signal a trend toward integrated HR solutions.
                  • AI in HR is not just about speed; transparency and accountability are key to adoption.
                  • Recognition and employee experience are crucial for retaining younger talent, particularly Gen Z.
                  • HR tech funding is rising, signaling robust growth in mental health and productivity tools.


                    • Chapters

                    00:00 Introduction and Teleprompter Troubles

                    02:57 Sober Curious: A New Perspective on Alcohol

                    06:07 Tribal Employment Rights and Heritage Recognition

                    08:53 AI in Search: The New Era of Information Retrieval

                    12:02 LinkedIn's AI-Powered Hiring Assistant

                    17:58 The Impact of Politics on Recruitment Strategies

                    22:46 Religious Accommodations in the Workplace

                    27:03 Generational Challenges in the Workplace

                    29:03 Innovative Childcare Solutions at Walmart

                    31:59 Google's Death Benefits and Employee Support

                    34:06 Recent Acquisitions in Workforce Management

                    36:57 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Insights

                    40:02 Talent Acquisition Trends for 2025

                    44:02 Job Seekers' Concerns on DEI

                    47:20 Gen Z's Workplace Expectations and Burnout

                    51:01 Recognition and Employee Experience

                    52:15 Funding Trends in HR Tech

                    55:14 Innovations in Learning and Mental Health

                    01:03:15 AI and Productivity Tools


                    Connect with us here:

                    William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

                    Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

                    Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

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                    1 hr 7 min
                  • THE BARF: Toxic Positivity, LinkedIn Cringe Culture, and Union Trends in 2025

                    Toxic positivity, union trends, and cringe-worthy LinkedIn posts are shaping today’s HR landscape. We explore top challenges in employee engagement, changing leadership roles, and AI’s growing role in monitoring. Discover what it means for workplace culture, leadership, and future workforce trends.

                    In this episode, we look at Toxic Positivity, Union Trends, LinkedIn Culture, HR Leadership, AI Monitoring, Workplace Violence, Remote Work, Discrimination, and Employee Engagement—spotlighting how these factors reshape workforce management, training, and employee sentiment.

                    Key Takeaways
                    • Toxic positivity in workplaces can mask deeper issues, hindering genuine improvement.
                    • Surging union petitions reflect shifting employee engagement and a push for workers’ rights.
                    • LinkedIn’s cringe culture highlights the growing need for authenticity in professional spaces.
                    • Modern HR leadership changes are critical for updating workplace practices and culture.
                    • Evolving workplace violence policies now include controversial firearm allowances in vehicles.
                    • AI monitoring in the workplace sparks significant concerns around employee privacy and autonomy.
                    • CEO perspectives on remote work are becoming more assertive, challenging traditional flexibility.
                    • Discrimination cases, such as those involving Hooters, underscore ongoing hiring biases.
                    • Strict training policies, like those at EY, reflect a no-tolerance approach to compliance.
                    • Workforce investments in skills and training are rising as companies adapt to digital demands.
                    • Mergers and acquisitions in HR tech drive innovation and strengthen workforce solutions.


                      • Chapters

                      00:00 Kicking it off - what is WRKdefined up to?

                      02:58 Toxic Positivity and Glossing Over Issues

                      06:04 Union Trends and Employee Engagement

                      08:57 Cringe Culture on LinkedIn

                      12:02 HR Leadership Changes in Major Companies

                      14:58 Workplace Violence and Firearm Policies

                      17:59 AI Monitoring in the Workplace

                      21:00 CEO Perspectives on Remote Work

                      23:59 Hooters and Allegations of Discrimination

                      27:00 EY's Strict Policies on Training Attendance

                      29:27 Strategic Acquisitions in Business

                      34:21 Innovations in Workforce Management

                      37:15 Balancing Human and Tech Skills

                      39:22 Trust in Leadership and Employee Sentiment

                      43:39 Shifts in Employment Preferences

                      46:43 Investment Trends in Workforce Solutions

                      50:24 Recruitment Trends and AI Integration

                      52:25 Funding and Financial Strategies for Startups


                      William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

                      Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

                      Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

                      The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok

                      Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

                      Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

                      1 hr 3 min
                    • THE BARF: Work Tech Soars: $2.6 Billion Invested in Q3 2024, Trends and Insights

                      Q3 saw a staggering $2.6 billion invested in Work Tech, alongside impactful M&A deals and rising AI trends. We dive into Workday’s UNTAPPED documentary, Walgreens’ game-changing student loan 401(k) match, and SHRM’s major acquisition, reshaping corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives across industries.

                      In this episode, we look at HR trends, Work Tech investments, AI-driven HR tools, Talent Acquisition strategies, Diversity & Inclusion, layoffs, hybrid work preferences, and future workplace strategies. We discuss key developments shaping the HR landscape and how these innovations will impact the future of work.

                      Key Takeaways:

                      1. Q3 2024 saw $2.6 billion invested in Work Tech, a 20% increase from Q2.
                      2. 181 work tech deals were disclosed in Q3, compared to 150 in Q2, with early-stage investments driving growth.
                      3. M&A activity surged, with 336 acquisitions in the first three quarters of 2024.
                      4. Workday’s UNTAPPED documentary follows six young adults pursuing internships at Fortune 500 companies through the Year Up program.
                      5. Walgreens announced a 401(k) student loan match, launching in January 2025, to ease the burden on employees with student loans.
                      6. SHRM’s acquisition of CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion strengthens its influence in corporate D&I leadership.
                      7. Immigrant workers have fueled 88% of U.S. workforce growth since 2019, highlighting their critical role in labor markets.
                      8. Toptal laid off 70% of its engineering team despite positioning itself as a leader in freelance hiring solutions.
                      9. AI tools, like SmartRecruiters’ Winston, revolutionize talent acquisition with features like intelligent scheduling and real-time candidate engagement.
                      10. Recent college graduates are struggling with workplace professionalism, with 81% of employers noting a lack of etiquette training.
                      11. Digital twins and AI-driven agents are transforming HR by automating 80% of repetitive tasks, freeing up time for strategy.
                      12. Hybrid work is valued by employees, equating to a 7.6% pay raise for those working remotely.
                      13. 89.4% of women report their work benefits don’t address needs related to perimenopause, highlighting a major gap in HR benefits.


                        14. Chapters

                        00:00 Introduction and Weekend Recap

                        02:58 Documentary Spotlight: Untapped by Workday

                        05:57 Walgreens' Innovative 401K Match for Student Loans

                        09:01 Work Tech Investment Trends

                        12:00 Legal Insights: Layoffs During Medical Leave

                        14:55 The Role of Immigrant Workers in Workforce Growth

                        17:59 TopTal's Layoffs and the Freelance Economy

                        20:51 Hybrid Work: Pay Raises vs. Flexibility

                        23:58 Chatbots and Workplace Civility

                        26:53 Acquisitions and SHRM's New Direction

                        30:07 Research Findings on New Graduates' Professionalism

                        30:34 The Importance of Etiquette Training for New Graduates

                        36:53 Digital Twins: The Future of Work

                        40:03 Evolving Definitions of Tech Talent

                        44:37 Hiring Challenges in the Fast-Paced Job Market

                        48:29 Addressing Menopause in the Workplace

                        50:28 Innovations in HR Tech Funding

                        53:03 AI in Sales Training and Role-Playing

                        56:26 Advancements in Accessibility Technology

                        58:40 Modern Payroll Solutions for a Diverse Workforce


                        Connect with us here:

                        William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

                        Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

                        Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

                        The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok

                        Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

                        Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

                        1 hr 5 min

                      About The BARF

                      From the publisher's feed

                      Breaking news, Acquisitions, Research, and Funding is The BARF. A look back into last week’s most talked about news in the world of work, what’s happened, what does it mean, and why should you care.…