The Shifting People Podcast

Transforming QSR Industry Leadership with Jolene Clayton of Whataburger

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive deep with Jolene Clayton, Operating Partner at Whataburger, to discuss effective people management and leadership in the QSR industry. Jolene reflects on her 17-year journey in food service, transitioning from casual dining to quick service, and the unique perspectives she brought along. Key topics include fostering employee morale, one-on-one coaching, the importance of recognizing team members, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Jolene also shares insights into her new leadership blog, 'People Over Patties,' aimed at revolutionizing leadership in the food industry.

Visit and subscribe to Jolene's blog, People Over Patties, here: https://www.peopleoverpatties.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Jolene Clayton: A Journey in Food Service

02:07 Transitioning from Full Service to Quick Service

03:37 The Whataburger Experience

10:14 Investing in Team Members

16:56 Creating a Positive Work Environment

24:56 Adapting Coaching with Compassion

25:28 The Shift in Job Priorities

26:17 Generational Changes in Job Seeking

26:53 The Role of Technology in Hiring

29:34 The Importance of Leadership Development

30:27 Finding and Developing the Right Managers

33:31 Launching a Leadership Blog

35:27 The Transferability of Leadership Skills

37:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Unlocking Employee Potential: Insights from Connie Beal on Supporting Workforce Stability

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough engage in an in-depth conversation with Connie Beal from United Way's Working Bridges. Connie delves into the intricacies of the Working Bridges program, which collaborates with employers to enhance employee retention, advancement, and financial stability through community resources. She shares real-life examples of how the program addresses critical employee needs like housing, transportation, childcare, and mental health. The discussion also explores barriers to implementing such programs in small businesses, the importance of assessing employee benefits, and the broader systemic issues affecting workers today. This episode underscores the vital role of comprehensive support systems in creating thriving workplaces.

You can learn more about United Way's Working Bridges here: https://www.gmunitedway.org/working-bridges

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Connie Beal from United Way's Working Bridges

00:39 Understanding Working Bridges

03:54 Real-Life Examples of Employee Support

05:08 Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace

07:11 Navigating Financial Stability and Benefit Cliffs

10:33 The Importance of Mental Models in the Workplace

15:16 Challenges and Opportunities for Small Businesses

19:45 Supporting Small Businesses Through Training and Education

26:05 Assessing and Enhancing Employee Benefits

32:00 Encouragement for Employers to Seek Help

35:09 Employer's Role in Problem-Solving

36:16 Boundary Setting and HR's Role

37:41 Challenges Faced by HR

39:21 Employee Benefits and Community Resources

40:29 Supporting Essential Workers

42:11 The Importance of Trust and Support Systems

44:58 The Privilege of Showing Up for Work

47:50 The Role of Workplace Support in Employee Stability

49:46 Systemic Challenges and Worker Resilience

50:36 Reflecting on the American Worker

54:55 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

Climbing the Corporate Ladder: From Entry-Level to VP in Restaurants - Anthony Rodriguez's Story

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough sit down with Anthony Rodriguez, Vice President of Operations at Gratitude Restaurant Group, franchisee of Dunkin' and Baskin Robbins. Anthony shares his inspiring journey from his first job at Bill Miller's Barbecue to becoming a key leader in the restaurant industry. Learn about the importance of homegrown talent, leadership versus talent shortage, and the significance of mentorship. Tune in for real insights on how to grow your career in the restaurant industry!

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Anthony Rodriguez's Journey in the Restaurant Industry

07:13 Lessons Learned from TGI Fridays

09:38 Mentorship and Leadership in the Restaurant Business

14:19 The Transition from Doer to Delegator

17:22 Focus Fridays: Innovative Communication

23:02 Addressing Leadership Shortages

24:51 The Power of Gratitude in Leadership

26:21 Opportunities in the Restaurant Industry

30:19 Building a Strong Leadership Team

32:45 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

00:00 The Shifting People Podcast - Episode #8:The Leadership Difference: Anthony Rodriguez on Talent vs. Leadership Shortage

Discovering Stone Acre Hospitality with Nicole Canning: The Queen of Newport

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Nicole Canning, Director of Operations and Marketing at Stone Acre Hospitality Group. Nicole discusses the expansion and success of Stone Acre Hospitality, their unique events, and the team's passion for preserving Newport's historic charm. She highlights their community involvement, social media strategies, and the emphasis on creating a positive work environment. Nicole also shares insights into her personal journey, working alongside her husband, and the vibrant Newport restaurant landscape.

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Nicole Canning: The Queen of Newport

00:55 The Stone Acre Hospitality Journey

01:31 Expanding the Stone Acre Empire

03:04 The Impact of Newport's Historic Preservation

08:40 Social Media and Personal Branding

14:14 Exploring Newport's Restaurant Landscape

14:34 Community and Competition Among Restaurants

16:00 Building a Positive Work Environment

18:02 Philanthropy and Community Engagement

20:49 Employee Benefits and Perks

22:27 Maintaining High Morale During Busy Seasons

26:24 Social Media and Brand Identity

27:14 Encouraging Staff Creativity and Engagement

28:24 Conclusion and Future Plans

00:00 The Shifting People Podcast - Episode #6: The Stone Acre Experience: A Hospitality Journey with Nicole Canning

Balancing Act: Humanizing HR with Anya Avinash of Your Friendly HR Girlie

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive into an enlightening conversation with Anya Avinash, founder of Your Friendly HR Girlie. Anya discusses her motivation to transform traditional HR practices by incorporating empathy and therapy, ultimately humanizing the experience for employees. The discussion covers the unique approach of offering third-party services, including HR consulting and therapeutic support, to foster better workplace wellness and productivity. Whether you're a startup, large corporation, or individual professional, Anya's insights highlight the importance of creating a supportive and communicative work environment. Tune in to learn how Your Friendly HR Girlie is making waves in the HR industry and how these innovative methods can be applied to improve your business today.

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Anya Avinash: Founder of Your Friendly HR Girlie

00:43 The Mission Behind Your Friendly HR Girlie

01:37 Concrete Solutions for HR Challenges

04:09 The Balancing Act: Integrating Therapy and HR

09:14 Building Happier, Healthier Teams

11:54 Services for Individuals and Companies

13:54 The Inspiration and Vision Behind the Business

16:00 Global Perspectives on HR and Mental Health

20:00 How to Get Started with Your Friendly HR Girlie

27:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

Overcoming Job Market Challenges: Insights from a Dynamic Job Seeker

Welcome to the Shifting People Podcast with co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough. In this first job seeker mini-episode, we interview Melissa Besong, a passionate and energetic professional with a diverse work history in special education, restaurant management, and floral design. Melissa shares her experience navigating the tough job market, discusses the importance of company culture and team engagement, and offers invaluable advice for job seekers looking for their next adventure. Don't miss her inspiring story and practical tips for career success!

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Exploring the Job Market Challenges

01:23 Meet Melissa Besong

02:08 Melissa's Personal Life and Hobbies

03:58 Melissa's Career Journey and Achievements

10:26 Job Seeking Challenges and Insights

20:37 Melissa's Future Aspirations

27:07 Advice for Job Seekers

29:43 Conclusion and Farewell