The ASHHRA Podcast
The ASHHRA Podcast is where healthcare HR leaders come to connect, learn, and lead.
Hosted by Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan of The Bo & Luke Show, each weekly episode dives into the real challenges and innovations shaping today’s healthcare workforce. From leadership development and employee engagement to workforce strategy, policy updates, and the latest HR data, this podcast brings practical insights straight from the experts who are redefining what it means to work in healthcare.
Through authentic conversations with CHROs, executives, and industry change-makers, The ASHHRA Podcast helps listeners bridge the gap between strategy and people, turning big ideas into action. Whether you’re leading a hospital HR team, managing talent acquisition, or simply passionate about the future of healthcare work, this show gives you the tools, stories, and inspiration to drive meaningful impact.
Listen weekly for fresh perspectives, timely news drops, and powerful stories from the frontlines of healthcare HR.
The ASHHRA Podcast
#180 - Beyond Perks: Engagement, Recognition, and Innovation
In this engaging solo-hosted episode (Bo's out traveling!), Luke Carignan chats with Erica Samalis, Director of HR Business Partners at Tufts Medicine. Erica shares her pivot from pre-med to HR via business school, her 12 years at Children's National in DC, and her return to New England roots. Amid talent shortages and industry shifts, she discusses elevating HRBPs to strategic roles, workforce development, AI's potential, and fostering engagement in a changing healthcare landscape.
Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:
- HRBP Evolution: Shift from transactional ER to strategic advising—build trust through rounding and proactive support.
- Workforce Planning: Focus on succession, internal mobility, and new business lines; partner with operations for talent pipelines.
- Talent Shortages: Address nursing/tech gaps with education investments, global sourcing, and retention strategies—emphasize culture over perks.
- AI in HR: Use for efficiency (e.g., chatbots, screening) but preserve human elements; frees time for high-impact work like development.
- Employee Engagement: Leverage surveys, DEI, and perks (e.g., pet insurance, tuition); prioritize mental health and flexibility.
- Industry Insights: Innovate amid change—share ideas via networks like ASHHRA for collaborative solutions.
A must-listen for HR driving strategic impact in healthcare. Erica's journey inspires adaptability!
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