Why Your Employees Won't Tell You The Truth (And How To Fix It) with Maureen Brown
HRchat Podcast
Maureen Brown joins the HRchat Podcast to reveal why employee voice isn't just another corporate buzzword—it's the untapped resource transforming workplace culture and employer branding across industries. As founder of Sullivan Brown Resourcing Partners and MySay, Maureen brings 16+ years of recruitment expertise to this conversation about why companies struggle to truly hear their employees.
We dive deep into the disconnect between conducting engagement surveys and implementing genuine listening strategies. Maureen explains why even well-intentioned HR teams and managers often can't hear feedback without bias, and how independent partners create the psychological safety essential for honest communication. "People want to feel heard," Maureen emphasizes, "and I don't know how heard you feel when you've filled in an online survey."
The conversation with Bill Banham reveals a fascinating post-pandemic shift in workplace dynamics. While pre-COVID exit interviews often contained negative feedback about direct managers, today's employees express positive sentiments about their managers while directing frustration toward leadership teams. Maureen unpacks the complex reasons behind this change—from decreased leadership visibility to middle managers increasingly identifying with their teams rather than with leadership.
Perhaps most compelling is Maureen's challenge to conventional employer branding approaches. Rather than investing in slick recruitment websites or referral schemes, she advocates for fostering genuine employee advocacy through meaningful listening practices. "There's nothing more powerful than genuine advocacy," she asserts, pointing to the missed opportunity when companies fail to amplify authentic employee voices.
Whether you're struggling with retention, rebuilding your culture post-pandemic, or simply wanting to strengthen your employer brand, this episode offers actionable insights on creating psychological safety, conducting effective stay interviews, and transforming employee feedback into strategic advantage. Connect with Maureen on LinkedIn or visit sullivanbrown.co.uk and mi-say.com to learn more about amplifying employee voice in your organization.
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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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DisruptHR Birmingham and The HR Shockwave with Sara Andrews
HRchat Podcast
What happens when engineering principles meet people strategy? Sara Andrews, Chief People Officer at Ecovyst, brings this powerful combination to the HRchat Show, revealing how her background as an engineer transformed her approach to human resources leadership.
Looking toward her upcoming presentation "HR as a Shockwave: From Compliance to Competitive Edge" at DisruptHR Birmingham, Sara previews how trust, talent frameworks, and culture serve as driving forces for organizational transformation. She also offers practical insights on balancing legacy practices with innovation, adapting strategies across different business environments, and leveraging AI for talent attraction, workforce planning, and personalized development.
Sarah also shares her journey of recognizing that truly effective HR requires building "strong, capable, competent and coherent teams" that directly impact business outcomes. Rather than viewing HR as a support function, she positions it as a strategic driver of enterprise value. Her refreshing perspective cuts through typical HR rhetoric to focus on measurable results: "My entry into HR was always about making a difference, having an HR function that created value and initiatives that really spoke to the bottom line."
While acknowledging HR's progress in gaining organizational influence, Sarah candidly assesses our current reality: "I think we have a seat at the top table. I'm not quite sure that our voice is as clearly heard as it should be." She outlines how HR professionals must develop skills to demonstrate how people management directly connects to growth, revenue, and DEI. This represents the evolving frontier for HR leadership – moving beyond presence to genuine influence.
Ready to transform your HR function from a support role to a competitive advantage? Listen now to discover how engineering principles can revolutionize your people strategy and drive measurable business impact.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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When Values Drive Growth: Authentic Leadership in Scaling Companies with Christina Luconi
HRchat Podcast
In this episode, Christina Luconi, dubbed "the original people innovator," takes host Bill Banham on a fascinating journey through her pioneering career in transforming how fast-growing companies approach their most valuable asset - their people. With refreshing candor and hard-earned wisdom, she reveals how she's helped multiple tech startups scale from dozens to thousands of employees without sacrificing their cultural foundations.
The conversation explores Christina's unconventional entry into HR after studying psychology, where her willingness to question established norms ("why do we call humans 'resources'?") set her on a path of people-centered innovation. Her formative experience at Sapient during the 90s tech boom—where she helped scale from 150 to 3,500 employees in just four years—established her philosophy that culture isn't just important for growth; it's the essential foundation that makes rapid growth possible.
Christina shares practical strategies from her 14-year tenure at Rapid7, where she developed the concept of "scaling with soul." Rather than imposing values from the top down, she engaged employees directly in defining the company's identity and integrated these values throughout the employee lifecycle. The approach was so successful that even terminated employees would recommend the company to others—perhaps the ultimate test of cultural strength. She eloquently articulates how diversity of thought and cultural alignment can coexist when organizations focus on shared values while encouraging authentic self-expression.
Now launching her consulting practice, People Innovations, Christina aims to help early-stage companies recognize the critical importance of human-centered approaches from day one. Having faced personal health challenges that shifted her perspective, she's passionate about maximizing her impact across multiple organizations. Despite acknowledging the current difficulties in people leadership, she remains optimistic: "This could be one of the most pivotal and important roles in a company because ultimately, it doesn't matter what you're building or selling...AI might replace a lot of stuff, but it can't replace human relationships and trust and collaboration."
Ready to transform how your organization approaches culture and growth? Subscribe to the HRchat Show for more insights from visionary leaders who are redefining the world of work.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
The Complete Guide to Hourly Hiring with Sean Behr, Fountain
HRchat Podcast
Frontline recruitment isn’t just hiring at scale—it’s an entirely different discipline from traditional corporate hiring. In this episode of the HRchat Show, Fountain CEO Sean Behr pulls back the curtain on the unique challenges of recruiting hourly workers and shares strategies that help employers keep pace in an increasingly competitive market.
Unlike corporate hiring, where companies may only need to fill a handful of roles, frontline hiring often means recruiting hundreds or even thousands of workers at once. As Sean explains, that scale alone completely changes the rules of the game. Standard applicant tracking systems weren’t built to handle that kind of volume, which is why businesses need new tools and processes if they want to stay ahead.
Communication is another big differentiator. White-collar candidates may check their emails or LinkedIn messages, but frontline candidates live on their phones. They apply late at night, respond to text messages instead of emails, and often juggle multiple applications at once. As Sean points out, the convenience of mobile hiring is a double-edged sword—while it makes applying easier, it also means candidates are only “one click away” from a competitor’s job.
To help employers succeed, Sean highlights innovative approaches across the entire hourly worker lifecycle. From AI-powered, on-demand interviews that accommodate non-traditional schedules to paperless onboarding that replaces mountains of first-day paperwork with meaningful orientation, these solutions are reshaping how companies attract and retain talent. He also introduces Fountain’s new Shift product, designed to tackle one of the biggest reasons frontline employees quit: mismatched schedules. Because for many hourly workers, flexibility and compatibility with their lives matter just as much as pay or job satisfaction.
For HR leaders who feel overwhelmed by the idea of revamping their entire hiring system, Sean offers practical, actionable advice: don’t try to fix everything at once. Start by identifying the single biggest pain point in your frontline hiring process—whether it’s candidate drop-off, interview scheduling, or day-one experience—and focus your energy there. Solving one critical problem at a time not only drives real results but also builds momentum for broader change.
If your organization relies on frontline workers, this conversation is a must-listen. Sean’s insights will help you rethink your approach, em
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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DisruptHR Birmingham, Culture, and Heroism with Shakil Butt
HRchat Podcast
Shakil Butt never planned to leave his comfortable 20-year finance career for HR leadership. What began as a three-month interim assignment transformed into a passionate pursuit that would redefine his understanding of strategic people management and earn him recognition as one of the UK's most influential HR leaders.
Bringing his finance background to HR gave Shakil a unique advantage. "Every single decision I'd ever made as a finance person had a people implication," he reflects, highlighting the critical intersection between financial decisions and human capital. This perspective helps him bridge the persistent gap between HR's traditional focus on people and the data-driven approach that commands attention in the boardroom.
Shakil, a speaker at next month's DisruptHR Birmingham Summit, challenges HR professionals to move beyond trendy but superficial initiatives like "Fresh Fruit Fridays" by focusing on measurable impact. "What's the problem you're trying to fix? What's the opportunity you're trying to take advantage of?" Without answers to these fundamental questions, HR initiatives lack strategic value. His approach transforms HR from what he calls "the poor cousin to finance" into a vital strategic function with demonstrable business impact.
When discussing organizational culture and equity initiatives with HRchat show host Bill Banham, Shakil offers a critique of "performative EDI" – actions taken for show rather than substance. "Culture is exactly what you allow to happen in the absence of any real thought," he notes, emphasizing that meaningful cultural change requires intentional leadership rather than disconnected programs. True equity work means addressing systemic issues throughout the employee lifecycle with clear metrics and ownership, not simply creating employee resource groups or celebrating diversity events without purpose.
Drawing inspiration from his love of sci-fi and fantasy, Shakil envisions HR professionals as potential organizational heroes who have the courage to "do the right thing" even when difficult. His message resonates with HR practitioners seeking to elevate their impact: embrace data without losing humanity, lead with purpose rather than trends, and have the bravery to champion meaningful change.
Connect with Shakil on LinkedIn
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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From Generative to Agentic: Reimagining People Practices Through AI with Kim Chaumillon
HRchat Podcast
Kim Chaumillon believes HR leaders must champion AI adoption from the inside out. "HR goes first" isn't just her mantra—it's the foundation of effective organizational transformation. Drawing from 30 years of global HR experience, Kim reveals how she's reimagining traditional people practices through AI implementation at two different organizations where she serves as fractional Chief People Officer.
Kim's conversation with hosts Pauline James and David Creelman explores practical strategies for building AI fluency within HR teams, starting with curated use cases and ongoing experimentation. Kim distinguishes between leveraging existing solutions with embedded AI capabilities and developing bespoke applications—highlighting three key opportunities for custom solutions: automating repetitive tasks, creating disruptive capabilities, and developing "chief of staff" functionality that transforms how work gets managed.
What makes Kim's approach particularly effective is her focus on enablement rather than restriction. While addressing important governance and ethical considerations, she frames AI guidelines in terms of possibilities rather than limitations. This positive orientation accelerates adoption and fosters innovation while maintaining appropriate boundaries around confidential information and potential biases.
The discussion provides a compelling vision of AI as HR's historic opportunity. Just as finance led during the 2008 financial crisis and HR guided organizations through COVID-19, AI transformation offers HR leaders the chance to drive tremendous business value while fundamentally reimagining work. For those who have long sought "a seat at the table," AI implementation provides the perfect blend of business impact and people-centered innovation—so significant that Kim delayed her retirement to participate in this transformative period.
Ready to take your HR function from reactive to proactive? Connect with Kim on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about leading your organization's AI transformation journey.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
What AI Can't Replace in Recruitment with Ian Knowlson
HRchat Podcast
The recruitment landscape is transforming at breakneck speed, with business models that once lasted decades now becoming obsolete in just a few years. How can talent leaders navigate this change while maintaining the essential human elements that technology can't replace?
Recruitment veteran and Disrupt Manchester speaker Ian Knowlson draws on his 40+ years of experience to illuminate the path forward in this compelling conversation. Having established and scaled recruitment operations across Europe and led public sector initiatives that grew from 2% to 52% of Hays IT's turnover in just four years, Ian brings practical wisdom to the AI revolution.
"AI will not replace people," Ian asserts with conviction. "What will happen is AI with people - augmented AI - will replace those recruiters who aren't using AI." This distinction is crucial. While automation streamlines processes, the uniquely human capabilities of empathy, emotional intelligence, and contextual reasoning remain irreplaceable. When a candidate inexplicably declines an apparently perfect offer or a client has complex talent challenges requiring creative solutions, artificial intelligence alone cannot navigate these nuanced waters.
The conversation with host, Bill Banham explores VUCA leadership principles (Vision, Understanding, Clarity, Agility) that leaders need to master, plus the critical fifth element for our times: Emotional Intelligence. As jobs undergo "fractionalization"—being deconstructed and redesigned with AI integration—recruiters must shift from being aggressive hunters to relationship builders who can identify candidates with transferable skills for emerging roles.
For Gen Z candidates seeking authentic connections rather than hard sells, this evolution in recruitment approaches couldn't be more timely. Whether you're a talent acquisition leader, recruitment professional, or business executive navigating workforce transformation, this episode provides both strategic vision and practical insights for thriving in an AI-augmented future.
Connect with Ian on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about recruitment's exciting evolution in the age of AI.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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Speak Up, Stand Out: From LinkedIn to TEDx with Bobby Umar
HRchat Podcast
What makes a leader truly memorable? According to Bobby Umar, one of Inc Magazine's top 100 leadership speakers globally, it's the courage to tell authentic stories that showcase vulnerability and build genuine human connections.
Bobby joins the HRchat Show to share his expertise on storytelling as a leadership superpower that transforms personal brands and organizational cultures. Drawing from his experience delivering thousands of keynotes across four continents and as a five-times TEDx speaker, Bobby reveals why so many leaders remain trapped in outdated communication approaches that limit their impact.
"There are lost, stuck or unfulfilled leaders everywhere," Bobby explains, highlighting his mission to help professionals escape career stagnation. The conversation explores the striking disconnect between what we know about effective communication and what leaders actually practice – while LinkedIn boasts over a billion users, only 7-8% actively create content, with an even smaller fraction sharing vulnerable stories that truly connect.
The episode dives deep into practical strategies for optimizing your digital presence, from crafting a compelling LinkedIn profile to navigating content creation across multiple platforms. Bobby offers his 80/20 rule for balancing professional expertise with personal authenticity, while providing tactical advice for handling online trolls and leveraging feedback to continuously improve your messaging.
Perhaps most valuable is Bobby's insider perspective on why TEDx talks represent the ultimate thought leadership opportunity. With just 20-30 hours of preparation spanning 3-6 months, a well-crafted TEDx talk can amplify your professional brand more effectively than strategies requiring significantly more time and resources.
Whether you're an HR professional looking to elevate your personal brand, a leader seeking to communicate more authentically, or simply someone who wants to create more meaningful connections in your professional life, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the transformative power of storytelling. Follow Bobby on LinkedIn to learn more about his speaking engagements, TEDx coaching, and personal branding support.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Turning Employee Engagement Data into Action with Karina Young, 15Five
HRchat Podcast
When was the last time your organization conducted an employee engagement survey? If it was more than a few months ago, you're likely making decisions based on outdated information. As Karina Young, VP People at 15Five, points out in this episode, "Think about who you were a year ago. You might have had a whole different set of needs, wants, desires, hopes than you do right now."
This conversation with host, Bill Banham dives into the limitations of traditional annual engagement measurements and offers a refreshing alternative: the "diagnose, plan, act" framework. Rather than the old cycle of "measure, guess, hope," this approach creates a continuous improvement loop that delivers real-time insights when they're most needed. Karina shares practical strategies for making engagement data actionable, from identifying targeted opportunities in specific population segments to implementing seamless accountability systems that don't overburden HR teams or managers.
The discussion highlights a remarkable case study from Trust Radius, where implementing strategic people analytics reduced attrition from 40% to 8% and significantly increased employee sentiment scores. We explore how AI-assisted coaching tools are revolutionizing manager effectiveness by providing personalized guidance in the flow of work, helping leaders address potential issues before high-performers become flight risks. Throughout the conversation, Karina emphasizes how data-driven approaches elevate HR's position within organizations, transforming the function from administrative support to strategic business partner.
Ready to revolutionize your approach to employee engagement? Subscribe to the HR Chat Show for more insights from innovative people leaders, and connect with Karina Young on LinkedIn or through the HR Superstars podcast to continue the conversation about strategic people analytics.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Company Culture: Inside Breeze Airways' People Strategy with Jeff Weber
HRchat Podcast
What happens when you combine cutting-edge technology with a more human approach to airline service? Jeff Weber, Chief People Officer at Breeze Airways, reveals the fascinating intersection of high-tech innovation and high-touch customer experience in this engaging conversation about the future of work in the aviation industry.
Jeff, who joined Breeze after successful HR leadership roles at forward-thinking organizations like Ancestry.com, explains why CEO David Neeleman specifically sought someone outside the airline industry to build Breeze's unique culture. "He said 'I don't really want someone who has been in the airline industry before. I want someone that's going to bring a culture like you had at the software companies you built,'" Weber shares, highlighting Breeze's distinctive positioning as a "tech company that flies."
Rather than replacing human workers with technology, says Jeff, Breeze focuses on augmentation – using AI-enabled tools like "Harper," their virtual HR generalist, to provide immediate support for team members on the go while maintaining the irreplaceable human element of their service. "We're not seeing roles getting replaced," Weber emphasizes. "We're seeing more of being augmented by technology. Pilots and flight attendants will be needed in the future, but how do we make their job easier?"
Perhaps most impressively, Jeff spent his first month at Breeze working frontline positions – cleaning planes, packing bags, assisting ground crew – to truly understand operational challenges. This hands-on approach exemplifies his leadership philosophy of aligning talent strategy with business objectives through three key pillars: acquisition, engagement, and development.
For HR professionals looking to future-proof their careers, Jeff offers clear guidance: "We should no longer be the police or compliance department. We should be the 'how do we help you deliver on your business plan' department." By staying current with emerging technologies while maintaining a focus on human connection, HR leaders can position themselves as essential strategic partners in any organization's success.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Disrupt Manchester, Analytics and the Art of HR with Mark Lawrence, Deloitte
HRchat Podcast
What happens when you combine archaeological curiosity with data science expertise? You get Mark Lawrence's fascinating approach to HR analytics.
In this conversation, Mark shares his unconventional career journey from aspiring Indiana Jones to Head of Analytics and Reporting at Deloitte, revealing how his fundamental desire to understand why things work the way they do connects these seemingly disparate fields.
With over 25 years of experience across multiple disciplines, Mark offers rare insights into how analytics can transform HR from a traditional service function into a strategic powerhouse. He candidly discusses the cultural divide that often exists between HR professionals and analytics specialists, describing how most "HR colleagues look at their analytics colleagues as if they're from another species." His practical suggestions for bridging this gap go beyond technical solutions to address the human factors that determine success or failure in data-driven HR initiatives.
Mark challenges both HR and analytics professionals to reconsider their relationships and expectations. For analytics specialists, he emphasizes the importance of demystifying their work and showing "the art of the possible" in accessible ways. For HR leaders, he highlights the extraordinary value hidden within their data ecosystems, suggesting that despite common complaints about HR data quality, the breadth and depth of people information represents a gold mine of analytical opportunity when properly approached.
Connect with Mark through LinkedIn or email him at mark@datadrivenhr.co.uk to learn more about his research on closing the expectation gap between analytics leaders and senior executives. And don't miss his upcoming presentation at Disrupt Manchester on September 24th, where he'll share lessons from both inside and outside the HR domain.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
From Hard Hats to High Earnings: Scaffolding's Secret Career Appeal
HRchat Podcast
Ever considered a career in scaffolding? Most haven't, but Paul Napper is on a mission to change that perception. As the Head of Training and Education at NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Confederation), Paul joins Bill Banham on the HRchat Show to reveal how this overlooked industry offers diverse career pathways and impressive earning potential.
"There are people I know earning £100,000 a year," Paul explains, highlighting how advanced scaffolders, especially those working in specialized sectors like offshore platforms, can achieve significant financial success. But perhaps more surprising is the range of career options beyond the physical construction work. The industry needs designers, contract managers, health and safety specialists, trainers, and entrepreneurs – creating opportunities for individuals with varied skills and interests.
The timing couldn't be better for exploring this field. With approximately 1,800 weekly vacancies in scaffolding across the UK, there's a genuine skills gap that needs filling. The NASC is actively working to bridge this gap through innovative approaches, including their "talent pack" with VR headsets that allow potential recruits to virtually experience scaffolding work, a talent portal connecting job seekers with employers, and partnerships with educational institutions to develop clear career pathways from entry-level positions through to university qualifications.
What sets scaffolding apart is its global relevance. The UK leads worldwide in scaffolding standards through technical guidance documents like TG20 and TG30. Countries including Australia, Malaysia, Jersey, and even the United States are now looking to adopt these standards, creating international opportunities for UK-trained scaffolding professionals. As major projects like the new Universal Studios theme park in the UK and worldwide construction continue to drive demand, scaffolding represents not just a job, but a career with genuine security and advancement potential.
Whether you're a school leaver, considering a career change, or simply curious about unexpected professional paths, Paul's insights reveal an industry that offers far more than meets the eye. Connect with him on LinkedIn or visit nasc.org.uk to explore how you might build a future in this dynamic field.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
The Flexibility Revolution with Dessalen Wood, Syntax
HRchat Podcast
The days of mandatory office attendance are (mostly) behind us, but how do you maintain a vibrant workplace culture when your team is scattered across 15+ countries? In this conversation, Dessalen Wood, Chief People Officer at Syntax, reveals the company's innovative approach to workplace flexibility that's become their competitive advantage.
Drawing from 25 years of experience across retail, entertainment, and technology sectors, Dessalen shares how Syntax transformed workplace flexibility from a pandemic necessity into a permanent, branded employee experience called "Global Flex." Unlike companies that offered remote work only to later withdraw it, Syntax made a public commitment they couldn't rescind, complete with company-wide town halls, dedicated branding, and clear guidelines addressing when, where, and in which country employees can work.
The results speak volumes—Syntax recently earned Great Place to Work certification across all eligible countries with over 80% employee participation. Rather than mandating office attendance, they create meaningful in-person experiences that naturally draw employees in, resulting in growing participation rates year over year. As Wood explains, "The biggest buzzkill for an employee experience is the word 'mandatory'... The word trust and having experts and mandatory cannot be in the same sentence."
Dessalen also unpacks the challenges of developing leaders in a global organization, emphasizing that leading across cultures requires far more adaptability than simply managing remote teams. At Syntax, over 50% of leaders manage team members in different countries, necessitating a leadership approach that respects cultural differences while maintaining core company values.
Whether you're an HR professional seeking fresh approaches to remote work policies or a leader navigating global team dynamics, this conversation offers practical insights for creating authentic workplace cultures where flexibility enhances rather than diminishes employee engagement. Connect with Dessalen Wood on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about evolving workplace strategies for today's distributed workforce.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Addiction: How HR Can Champion Treatment and Recovery with Carrie Bates
HRchat Podcast
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Carrie Bates isn't just celebrating over a decade of sobriety—she's revolutionizing how workplaces approach addiction recovery. As Director of Strategic Growth and Advocacy at Caron Treatment Centers, Carrie brings a powerful dual perspective to the conversation on substance dependence in professional environments.
Over 26 million Americans report struggling with addiction, with countless others suffering silently. Furthermore, 80% of people who abuse substances are employed. Yet stigma and fear of career consequences keep many from seeking help through their HR departments or employee assistance programs. This silence allows addiction to progress unchecked, affecting productivity, attendance, and overall culture.
Caron Treatment Centers stands out in the recovery landscape through its focus on brain health and neuro-restorative care. Using advanced technology like PET scans, they examine blood flow and neural activity, often discovering that patients have been misdiagnosed with conditions like ADHD or bipolar disorder. This neurological approach treats addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing—a crucial distinction for workplace policies.
In this discussion with Bill Banham, Carrie shares candidly about losing her career in sports marketing because of a lack of supportive recovery protocols. "There was no culture, no environment to which this was an acceptable conversation to have," she explains. This experience fuels her advocacy for HR policies that treat addiction with the same compassion as other medical conditions, including graduated return-to-work plans and appropriate accommodations.
Corporate culture often unwittingly excludes those in recovery through alcohol-centered events like "Thirsty Thursdays" and "Wine Wednesdays." Carrie doesn't suggest eliminating these traditions but recommends including appealing non-alcoholic options so everyone feels "a part of, rather than apart from" these important social experiences. For executives and high-profile individuals, Caron's Ocean Drive program offers specialized treatment that balances recovery needs with limited work responsibilities, addressing a major barrier to seeking help.
Ready to transform your workplace? Visit caron.org.com to learn more or connect with Carrie Bates on LinkedIn.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Why HR Leaders Must Pivot to Skills-Based Talent Management with Shrikant Pattathil, Harbinger Group
HRchat Podcast
The future of workforce efficiency is skills-based, and organizations that fail to make this pivot risk being left behind. Shrikant Pattathil, President and CTO of Harbinger Group, joins Bill Banham to unpack why skill proficiency has become a critical metric for organizational success in today's hyper-personalized, hyper-automated workplace.
Shrikant reveals that companies implementing skills-first approaches are seeing dramatic improvements, including 25% faster hiring processes. But the benefits extend far beyond recruitment, touching everything from internal mobility to workforce planning. The conversation explores the complex question of AI-driven job displacement, with Shrikant estimating that while 70-80% of employees can be upskilled for evolving roles, organizations must prepare for 20-25% of positions to undergo complete transformation.
The episode takes a deep dive into the architecture of effective skills-first platforms, outlining six essential components including AI-driven skills graphs, gap analyzers, and personalization engines. Through real-world case studies, Shrikant demonstrates how these systems have transformed recruitment processes and leadership development programs. He emphasizes that building a skills ontology isn't a one-time project but an ongoing commitment requiring continuous adaptation to organizational needs.
Shrikant Pattathil also provides practical guidance for HR leaders navigating the build-versus-partner decision when implementing skills platforms. He advocates for a strategic approach that balances custom development of core components with partnerships for standard functionalities. The conversation concludes with insights on incorporating contingent workers into skills frameworks and how centralized skills management serves as the ultimate insurance policy against future disruptions.
Ready to transform how your organization approaches talent development and workforce planning? Subscribe to the HRchat Show for more conversations with innovators reshaping the world of work, visit hrgazette.com for additional resources on skills-first transformation and learn more about the services offered by Harbinger Group.
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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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From Lawyer to CHRO: How Dual Roles Create Better Leaders with Joshua Horenstein
HRchat Podcast
What happens when one executive combines legal expertise with human resources leadership? Joshua Horenstein, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal and Human Resources Officer & Corporate Secretary at Innophos, reveals the powerful advantages of his dual role in this fascinating conversation.
Leading both legal and HR departments for a global phosphate company with 1,500 employees worldwide, Joshua leverages his unique position to provide comprehensive solutions that traditional, siloed departments often miss. "Running both departments has made me better at both functions," he explains. "It made me a better lawyer, a better executive, a better leader overall."
Throughout his 15-year tenure at InnoFOS, Joshua has navigated significant corporate transitions, including a $1 billion public-private sale. His cross-functional perspective proved invaluable during these pivotal moments, allowing him to address both the structural aspects of transactions and their human impacts simultaneously. "CEOs and boards like just having one person to talk to," he notes, highlighting how his multifaceted role streamlines executive communication.
Beyond his formal responsibilities, Joshua also leads the company's ESG initiatives with a practical approach that balances environmental and social objectives with business performance. "I refuse to believe you can't be a good environmental steward and also make money," he asserts, though he acknowledges this equilibrium requires thoughtful effort rather than pursuing ESG initiatives for their own sake.
Mentorship represents another cornerstone of Joshua's leadership philosophy. Drawing from mentors who shaped his own career, he's implemented innovative programs at InnoFOS, including an English-Spanish buddy system connecting employees across different regions—strengthening both language skills and cross-cultural collaboration.
For professionals navigating their own system transformations, Joshua offers this wisdom: "Plan...but part of that humility is recognizing it's never going to go 100 percent to plan." This balanced perspective—thorough preparation paired with adaptive flexibility—defines his approach to leadership challenges in today's complex corporate landscape.
Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about cross-functional leadership and how breaking down departmental silos can create more effective executive leadership.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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Leading with Purpose in the Luxury World with Gena Smith, LVMH
HRchat Podcast
Bob Goodwin welcomes Gena Smith, North American CHRO for luxury powerhouse LVMH, for a masterclass in leadership development and cultivating excellence across iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Tiffany.
Gena shares her unexpected journey from small-town Texas to leading human resources for one of the world's most prestigious luxury groups. A pivotal study abroad experience in Greece awakened her passion for people and culture, establishing a personal benchmark that guided her career choices: "Any role had to have an international dimension and I had to be working with people." This philosophy ultimately led her to LVMH, where she now champions a culture built on creativity, innovation, excellence, and entrepreneurship.
Gena's conversation with Bob explores how LVMH maintains the delicate balance between preserving brand heritage while pushing creative boundaries. "We don't want our brands sitting in museums," Smith explains, highlighting the tension between honoring each brand's DNA while ensuring contemporary relevance. This balancing act requires diverse perspectives and trustful environments where creativity can flourish.
Leadership development emerges as a cornerstone of LVMH's success. Smith details their comprehensive succession planning process that examines potential leaders across all 75 brands, paired with targeted development experiences. She emphasizes that leadership must be approached with the same intentionality as any business objective: "You actually have to want to be a great leader. That has to be something that's important to you."
Looking toward the future, Smith discusses LVMH's "HR New Deal" initiative, which positions employees at the center of their career journey with access to opportunities across all brands. While acknowledging technology's growing role, she returns to a fundamental truth that transcends industry or era: "At the end of the day, we rely on talented, motivated, inspired, engaged people to drive our business."
Ready to discover what truly lights your fire professionally? Tune in to this insightful conversation about finding your passion, developing leadership excellence, and creating environments where people and creativity thrive.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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Bridging the $11 Trillion Skills Gap with Dan Benveniste, SkillWaze
HRchat Podcast
Imagine a world where job candidates arrive with an ironclad guarantee that they can apply the skills listed on their resumes. That's the vision shared by Dan Benveniste, Founder and CEO of SkillWaze, a company that’s redefining career readiness through AI-powered, skill-based learning.
Dan and his team just announced the acquisition of tilr.com, a leading learning management and credentialing platform. Together, they’re building what they call the first guaranteed career-readiness solution for both learners and employers.
The pandemic created a perfect storm for today's young job seekers. Cut off from crucial workplace socialization during formative years and now facing entry-level positions being automated away, Gen Z faces unprecedented barriers to meaningful employment. When 60% of recent college graduates get fired within 90-120 days due to skills mismatches, something fundamental needs to change.
Dan explains how SkillWaze's acquisition of learning platform Tiller creates what he calls "the first guaranteed career readiness solution." Their approach solves the critical difference between knowledge acquisition and skill application: "You can learn hockey, but that doesn't mean you can play it." By combining AI-powered learning pathways with virtual apprenticeships where skills are observed and validated in real contexts, SkillWaze creates verifiable talent profiles employers can trust.
What makes this especially compelling is the "Waze for careers" navigation system that lets users explore different paths, earn micro-rewards (including Bitcoin, which drives 2-3x engagement), and recalculate their journey as interests evolve. For employers, it builds custom talent "farm teams" based on specific skill requirements, making skills-first hiring practical rather than theoretical.
With the World Economic Forum identifying an $11 trillion global skills gap, solutions that bridge learning and earning couldn't be more urgent. As Benvenisti puts it: "If we don't have Gen Z meaningfully engaged in employment and highly productive mode in a couple of years, that's like having a fuel gap on an airplane." Connect with Dan on LinkedIn or email dan@skillwaze.com to learn more about this revolutionary approach to guaranteed career readiness.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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Ethical Leader of the Year: Winner Announced at SHRM with Brian Peckrill, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund
HRchat Podcast
Yesterday at the 2025 SHRM Annual Conference & Expo in San Diego, the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund named Brian Moynihan, CEO at Bank of America as this year’s Ethical Leader of the Year Award winner.
Brian Peckrill, Executive Director of the McGowan Fund, presented the award and praised Ethical Leader of the Year Award winner Brian Moynihan's commitment to ethical leadership. With this honor, Brian Moynihan joins an esteemed group of past recipients, including Prudential Financial CEO Charles Lowrey and Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian.
In this special HRchat episode, recorded live at SHRM25, Brian Peckrill returns to the show to reflect on the evolving role of HR in championing ethics and purpose in today’s organizations.
Host Bill Banham and Brian also dive into the Ethical Leader of the Year Award itself - what makes it special, the qualities of its recipients, and what’s next for the McGowan Fund.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
SHRM, Balancing Technology and Human Connection with Lila Nazef
HRchat Podcast
"AI is not going to replace workers – it's going to create super workers." This powerful insight from Lila Nazef, VP of Sales and Marketing North America at Neocase and attendee at this week's SHRM Annual Conference and Expo, sets the tone for a fascinating exploration of how artificial intelligence is transforming HR service delivery while addressing common concerns about this rapidly evolving technology.
The conversation delves into the most pressing worries HR professionals express about AI implementation: data privacy, job displacement, and the potential loss of human connection. Lila offers reassurance by explaining how modern platforms like Neocase maintain data security by keeping information within closed systems while leveraging AI's capabilities. She articulates the importance of understanding different generational preferences – while seasoned employees might value face-to-face interactions, younger generations often prefer immediate digital solutions without human intervention.
Perhaps most compelling is the discussion around when AI should replace processes versus when human touch remains essential. For routine transactions like timesheet corrections, automation creates efficiency. However, for sensitive matters involving harassment or employee relations concerns, human judgment and empathy remain irreplaceable. This balanced approach allows organizations to deploy their human resources strategically while improving overall service delivery. The metrics supporting this strategy are impressive: up to 95% time reduction for information searches, 81% fewer HR help desk tickets, and 90% improvement in transaction processing times.
Lila advocates for a measured implementation approach that begins with AI assistants for meeting summaries and information retrieval before advancing to more complex transaction automation. Throughout this journey, communication remains paramount – employees need to understand how AI will enhance their experience rather than threaten their roles. When implemented thoughtfully, AI creates what Lila describes as "super workers" – professionals whose capabilities are enhanced rather than replaced by technology.
Lila and Bill also discuss SHRM25 and other upcoming events for HR pros.
Ready to transform your HR operations with AI that respects both efficiency and human connection? Subscribe to the HR Chat Show for more insights, and connect with Lila Nazef on Lin
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
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AI, Economic Uncertainty, and Workplace Civility with Dr. James Atkinson, SHRM
HRchat Podcast
What happens when 19 million jobs face potential displacement from automation and AI? And why aren't half of all workers using AI at all? Dr. James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership at SHRM, uncovers these startling insights and more in our illuminating conversation about workplace transformation.
Fresh from celebrating his one-year anniversary at SHRM after an impressive 11-year tenure in HR research at Gartner, Dr. Atkinson separates AI hype from reality. While headlines focus on job losses, James explains to Bill Banham how his team's research reveals a more nuanced future, one where success hinges not on competing against AI but learning to work alongside it. "It's not just about displacement," he explains. "It's really about the transformation of jobs."
Beyond technology, James and Bill explore how SHRM's research team tackles today's most pressing workplace challenges, from macroeconomic uncertainties to the shocking $2 billion daily productivity loss caused by workplace incivility. Dr. Atkinson shares exclusive insights from SHRM's economics team on wage inflation, labor market trends, and how HR professionals can navigate these complexities. With SHRM25 in full swing, he also previews the cutting-edge research his team will unveil on multiple stages.
Whether you're concerned about AI's impact on your career, struggling with workplace culture issues, or simply trying to stay ahead of workplace trends, this episode delivers actionable intelligence from one of HR's foremost thought leaders.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
The Human Touch in C-Suite Decisions with Chelle O'Keefe, Associa
HRchat Podcast
What makes a truly effective CHRO in today's complex business landscape? Chelle O'Keefe, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Associa, brings refreshing clarity to this question through her remarkable journey from psychology graduate to C-suite leader.
The power of Chelle's approach lies in her unique perspective: despite never taking a formal business class, she's mastered the executive suite by focusing on the fundamental thread connecting all her work—understanding human behavior. "The common thread through my entire background is human behavior," she explains, detailing how this focus has guided her through roles in learning and development, change management, communications, and even marketing before landing in HR leadership.
Chelle shares the strategies behind her impressive achievements, including an 80% internal promotion rate and 30% reduction in turnover. Rather than adopting off-the-shelf solutions, her team developed leadership competency models by studying their own successful leaders. This authentic approach created a powerful eight-month development program that transformed their talent pipeline. On retention, her philosophy is wonderfully straightforward: "Leadership is absolutely the first thing that drives that turnover rate," combined with directly asking employees what they want through simple polls rather than complex engagement surveys.
Leading HR for an organization with 300 branch offices serving 7.5 million residents worldwide presents unique challenges. Chelle discusses how they manage cultural alignment during acquisitions and maintain cohesion across dispersed locations through their "Associa Book" of values. She offers practical wisdom on AI implementation, suggesting leaders focus on automating "painful repetitive tasks" rather than getting overwhelmed by the broader concept.
Perhaps most valuable is Chelle's candid insight into executive influence: "You have to be able to speak the language of the business to sit at the table. That's just table stakes." What truly differentiates exceptional HR leaders is bringing humanity to the C-suite—building relationships, having tough conversations, and sometimes being "the only adult at the table." In a world increasingly focused on technology and metrics, Chelle reminds us that understanding people remains the heart of effective leadership.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Digital Identity in the Age of AI with Joelle Smith, First Advantage
HRchat Podcast
Your next hire could be a deepfake. Identity fraud in employment has exploded, with a 30% increase in 2025 alone and experts predicting one in four candidates will use some form of deepfake technology by 2028. This isn't just resume padding—it's a sophisticated attack on your organization.
Joelle Smith, President of First Advantage Corporation, reveals how the convergence of massive data breaches, advanced AI, and remote work has created a perfect storm for employment fraud. Foreign actors aren't just seeking multiple paychecks; they're targeting something far more valuable: day-one access to your organization's internal systems and data. These threats transcend industries and borders, affecting companies of all sizes.
The traditional hiring approach—taking candidates at their word before conducting background checks—creates a dangerous vulnerability. Joelle explains how "identity-first" verification not only blocks fraudulent candidates but improves the accuracy of background screening, with companies seeing a 17% increase in criminal record detection when identity verification comes first. First Advantage's sophisticated system triangulates technology, proprietary data, and personal knowledge verification to distinguish legitimate candidates from increasingly convincing fakes.
What makes this discussion particularly valuable is the balance between security and candidate experience. The goal isn't just blocking bad actors but creating streamlined processes for legitimate candidates. As Joelle emphasizes, "Our job is to help organizations find great talent and retain them."
Want to protect your organization from the rising tide of identity fraud? Connect with Joelle on LinkedIn or visit FADV.com to explore how identity verification can strengthen your hiring process. The future of secure hiring starts with knowing exactly who you're bringing on board.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Unlocking Potential: Skills First Movement with Wendi Safstrom, SHRM Foundation
HRchat Podcast
The U.S. faces a talent crisis with millions of skilled candidates overlooked due to outdated hiring practices. The SHRM Foundation's Center for a Skills-First Future aims to bridge this gap by transforming how employers approach talent acquisition.
In this HRchat conversation with Bill Banham, SHRM Foundation President Wendi Safstrom reveals why skills-first hiring has moved to the forefront of strategic thinking for forward-looking organizations. "Talent is America's greatest asset," she explains, noting that employers increasingly rely on workforce creativity and innovation to compete. Yet traditional credential-based hiring creates artificial barriers that exclude qualified candidates simply because they lack formal degrees.
The statistics paint a sobering picture: 75% of employers struggle to fill positions, nearly half face retention challenges, and replacing employees costs up to four times their salary. Meanwhile, one-third of working-age adults without four-year degrees possess valuable skills that remain untapped. As AI and technology rapidly transform skill requirements, the disconnect between educational outputs and workforce needs continues to widen.
Beyond addressing the immediate talent shortage, the Center for a Skills-First Future expands support for overlooked talent pools, including military community members and "opportunity youth" aged 16-24 who are neither in education nor employment. The initiative provides HR professionals with practical tools, including a new certificate program focused on skills-first recruitment strategies.
Learn more about the SHRM Foundation to join a movement reshaping America's workplace.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
AI Beyond the Basics: Scaling Your Department's Capabilities with Dr. Tim Scarfe
HRchat Podcast
The gap between casual ChatGPT users and organizations with massive AI teams seems unbridgeable for most departments. But what about that middle ground where small teams can leverage AI effectively without specialized expertise?
Dr. Tim Scarfe, CEO of Machine Learning Street Talk, discusses practical AI implementation for smaller organizations with hosts Pauline James and David Creelman in this HRchat conversation.
Running a sophisticated content production operation with just 15 team members and spending $1,500-2,000 monthly on AI tools, Tim offers a realistic roadmap for departments looking to move beyond basic AI usage.
"ChatGPT is a reflection of you," Tim explains. "It makes dumb people dumber and smart people smarter." This insight highlights why some users remain frustrated with AI while others create remarkable value – the difference lies in approaching AI conversations as iterative journeys rather than one-shot interactions.
Most surprisingly, Tim suggests that building internal AI systems doesn't necessarily require specialized AI expertise. Rather, curiosity and experimentation can take departments far, especially when leaders understand that AI itself can help explain how to use AI more effectively. Tim cautions against waiting for "perfect" technology before diving in, warning that we face a potential digital divide similar to what occurred during the 1980s computing revolution.
For HR leaders and department managers, the conversation offers a practical middle path between doing nothing and pursuing enterprise-wide AI transformation. By starting small, experimenting continuously, and focusing on specific use cases, even modestly-sized teams can create significant value with today's AI tools.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Why Your Employees Won't Tell You The Truth (And How To Fix It) with Maureen Brown
21:40
DisruptHR Birmingham and The HR Shockwave with Sara Andrews
17:17
When Values Drive Growth: Authentic Leadership in Scaling Companies with Christina Luconi
23:56
The Complete Guide to Hourly Hiring with Sean Behr, Fountain
22:49
DisruptHR Birmingham, Culture, and Heroism with Shakil Butt
23:57
From Generative to Agentic: Reimagining People Practices Through AI with Kim Chaumillon
28:16
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What AI Can't Replace in Recruitment with Ian Knowlson
26:20
Speak Up, Stand Out: From LinkedIn to TEDx with Bobby Umar
31:08
Turning Employee Engagement Data into Action with Karina Young, 15Five
19:28
Company Culture: Inside Breeze Airways' People Strategy with Jeff Weber
20:59
Disrupt Manchester, Analytics and the Art of HR with Mark Lawrence, Deloitte
23:07
From Hard Hats to High Earnings: Scaffolding's Secret Career Appeal
21:34
The Flexibility Revolution with Dessalen Wood, Syntax
26:59
Addiction: How HR Can Champion Treatment and Recovery with Carrie Bates
26:27
Why HR Leaders Must Pivot to Skills-Based Talent Management with Shrikant Pattathil, Harbinger Group
23:26
From Lawyer to CHRO: How Dual Roles Create Better Leaders with Joshua Horenstein
32:35
Leading with Purpose in the Luxury World with Gena Smith, LVMH
39:29
Bridging the $11 Trillion Skills Gap with Dan Benveniste, SkillWaze
26:40
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Ethical Leader of the Year: Winner Announced at SHRM with Brian Peckrill, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund
15:02
SHRM, Balancing Technology and Human Connection with Lila Nazef
23:45
AI, Economic Uncertainty, and Workplace Civility with Dr. James Atkinson, SHRM
15:35
The Human Touch in C-Suite Decisions with Chelle O'Keefe, Associa
23:32
Digital Identity in the Age of AI with Joelle Smith, First Advantage
19:00
Unlocking Potential: Skills First Movement with Wendi Safstrom, SHRM Foundation
17:51
AI Beyond the Basics: Scaling Your Department's Capabilities with Dr. Tim Scarfe
28:39