Guest: Minal Bopaiah, Founder & Principal Consultant, Brevity & Wit

It takes more than passion to create and/or maintain a successful diversity program. That is the topic I tackle in this episode with an expert dedicated to helping organizations improve their diversity and inclusion efforts. Minal Bopaiah, Principal & Founder of Brevity & Wit (https://brevityandwit.com/) is a marketing, communications, and branding strategist with 20 years of professional experience. She is an expert in using psychological principles to create brand identities and communications that win both hearts and minds.

Remember you can always follow us on Twitter at @HRWorksPodcast (https://bit.ly/3l0dzP3), and we are also now available on Spotify (http://spoti.fi/3t8of13) and Audible (http://adbl.co/30uhdaq).

HR Works Podcast 154: You Need More than Passion to Tackle Diversity

Today’s guest is Erin Diehl, founder and CEO of professional development company, Improve It! Learn how Erin embraces a mindset of “failfluence” and uses improvisational comedy tactics to create cultures of trust, teamwork, and collaboration across some of the largest organizations in the business world.

HR Works Podcast 166:  Improving Corporate Culture Through Improv

We all dread tough conversations at work. But what if they held the key to a thriving, inclusive workplace? Listen in as Hannah Yardley, Chief People and Culture Officer at Achievers, dives deep into the importance of fostering open dialogue, even when it gets messy. Discover how HR leaders can cultivate psychological safety and create a space where employees of all backgrounds feel comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work, and how diversity and inclusion play a crucial role in building a culture of safety and belonging.

HR Works Podcast: How to Eat an Elephant One Bite at a Time

In part two of this series, Julie Tschida Brown, EVP, Chief People & Culture Officer at Zayo, dives into the critical role HR plays in preserving company values and fostering a positive unified culture during transformative times. Listen in as we explore strategies for bringing teams together, aligning goals, and ensuring employees feel valued and motivated throughout significant times of change, including the M&A process.

HR Works Podcast: Leading Your Team Through Change (Part II)

In part two of this two-part series, we wrap up our conversation on career development with Dr. Beverly “Bev” Kaye. Dr. Kaye is recognized internationally as one of the most knowledgeable and practical professionals in the areas of career development, employee engagement and retention. Listen in as we discuss the importance of “capturing the moment” with employees, common challenges managers and HR professionals face when implementing effective career development programs, and more.

HR Works Podcast: Grow or Go—Nurturing Careers for a Thriving Workforce (Part II)

Jesse Meschuk, Principal at Exequity, returns for the final part of our conversation on living wages. Tune in to learn more about the importance of living wages, financial literacy, and how leaders can help employees improve financial wellness.

HR Work Break: Living Wages and Living Well Part 2

In this episode, we dive into the heart of the DEI debate. With recent setbacks and growing skepticism, many are wondering if the end of DEI as we know it is imminent. We've curated a powerful clip from HR Daily Advisor's webinar, "Is It the End of DEI as We Know It?"

Listen in as our expert panelists discuss the decline in DEI efforts, their personal perspectives on the issue, the importance of curiosity in fostering meaningful dialogue, and more. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that explores the challenges and opportunities facing DEI in the workplace.

Listen to the full webinar here: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4699198/B037E143BB70131E1B8996E612E24D49

Speakers:

Dr. Lisa Coleman, President, Adler University

Reggie Willis, Chief Diversity Officer, Ally Financial, Inc.

Rachel Bourne, Transformation Director, Cummins

Antoine Andrews, Chief Diversity and Social Impact Officer, SurveyMonkey

HR Works Podcast: DEI Under Fire—A Critical Conversation

In this episode of HR Works, we discuss the transformative impact of kindness and empathy in workplace leadership. I’m excited to have Jamie Graceffa, VP, Learning, Development & Culture at Quanterix with me. Jamie is also author of Kind Cards, which he created to help HR leaders and organizations develop kindness skills at work.

In the first part of this series, listen in as we discuss the impact of kindness and stigmas associated with it, the value of kindness in the workplace, practical strategies for HR leaders to develop their own empathy skills, common mistakes leaders make when trying to be more empathetic, and more.

HR Works Podcast: Kindness is King—The Power of Empathy in Leadership (Part I)

In this episode of HR Works, we continue our discussion on the transformative impact of kindness and empathy in workplace leadership with Jamie Graceffa, VP, Learning, Development & Culture at Quanterix. Jamie is also author of Kind Cards, which he created to help HR leaders and organizations develop kindness skills at work.

In part two, listen in as we discuss the difference between empathy and sympathy, and why is empathy crucial for effective leadership, the crucial role empathy plays in DEI, why it’s important to remember the humanity of everyone, and more.

Link to Kind Cards: https://getkindcards.com/

HR Works Podcast: Kindness is King—The Power of Empathy in Leadership (Part 2)

Forbes found that 98% of HR professionals are burned out, and 97% of felt emotionally fatigued from work over the past year. In the face of these shocking statistics, what can leaders do to better support their HR teams? Sarah Devereaux, Co-Founder and Executive Coach at White Pine Leadership Collective & HCI Facilitator, joins HR Work Break to discuss the particular strain on HR professionals, signs of burnout, and how organizational culture plays a role in this issue.

HR Work Break: Battling HR Burnout Part 1

In the latest episode of HR Works podcast, we wrap up our conversation on the transformative impact of kindness and empathy in workplace leadership with Jamie Graceffa, VP, Learning, Development & Culture at Quanterix. Jamie is also author of Kind Cards, which he created to help HR leaders and organizations develop kindness skills at work.

In part three, listen in as we discuss the importance of developing workplace leadership skills, how leaders can balance the need for kindness with the demands of a competitive business environment, and more.

Link to Kind cards: https://getkindcards.com/

HR Works Podcast: Kindness is King—The Power of Empathy in Leadership (Part 3)

With recent setbacks and growing skepticism, many are wondering if the end of DEI as we know it is imminent. We’ve curated a powerful clip from HR Daily Advisor‘s webinar, “Is It the End of DEI as We Know It?”

Listen in as our expert panelists discuss the decline in DEI efforts, their personal perspectives on the issue, the importance of curiosity in fostering meaningful dialogue, and more. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that explores the challenges and opportunities facing DEI in the workplace.

Listen to the full webinar here: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4699198/B037E143BB70131E1B8996E612E24D49

Speakers:

Dr. Lisa Coleman, President, Adler University

Reggie Willis, Chief Diversity Officer, Ally Financial, Inc.

Rachel Bourne, Transformation Director, Cummins

Antoine Andrews, Chief Diversity and Social Impact Officer, SurveyMonkey

A Seat at the Table Podcast: No, DEI Is Not Dead

In August, the New York Times published an article about the distrust employees have toward HR professionals, sparking conversation across LinkedIn about the differences between "boots-on-the-ground" HR leaders and HR "influencers." Sarah Deveraux, Co-Founder and Executive Coach at White Pine Leadership Collective and HCI Facilitator, joins HR Work Break to discuss this article, why there's a history of animosity toward HR, and what leaders can do to humanize their HR departments.

HR Work Break: Humanizing HR, Part 1

In this episode of HR Works podcast, we explore the complex issue of employee retention and turnover. I’m excited to have Charlie Anderson, Strategic Director for Talent Management Solutions and George Boone, Director of Organizational Effectiveness and Talent Management at Mitratech.

Listen in as our experts discuss strategies to address common challenges, including career planning, goal setting, employee expectations for feedback, tough conversations, and more.

If you’re an HR professional looking to discover actionable insights to create a more fulfilling and rewarding workplace this episode for you.

HR Works Podcast: Tackling Turnover and Fostering Engagement

This episode of HR Works honors our veterans not just for their service, but for the valuable skills they bring to the civilian workforce. Eric Ryan, a Marine Corps veteran and senior director of Military Operations at the University of Phoenix, joins to explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by veterans transitioning to new careers.

Listen in as we discuss some of the biggest challenges veterans face when transitioning from the military to a civilian career, how veterans can effectively translate their military experience and skills into civilian job descriptions, how companies create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for transitioning veterans, best practices for attracting and recruiting veterans, and more.

HR Works Podcast: The Post-Military Pivot

In the final episode of this three-part series, we dive deep into the critical role of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the legal industry with Katherine “Kat” Mateo, a seasoned litigator at Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP. Kat is a champion for DEIB, and she brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. Tune in as she discusses the firm’s DEI efforts, her advice for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who want to pursue a legal career, and more.

HR Works Presents A Seat at the Table: Fostering Belonging and Diversity in Law (Part III)

This week’s episode of HR Works is a powerful clip from HRDA‘s panel session, “The Great Retention: Strategies for Building a Resilient and Engaged Workforce.”

Presented as part of our HR Employee Retention & Turnover NOW, listen in to find out where organizations can start to effectively engage and retain employees, including remote employees, practical strategies for building a strong sense of community within the workplace, the role company culture plays in employee retention, and more. Listen to the full webinar here:  https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4698472/A92333EA12FEA15DE2B84DDD80FC0010?partnerref=BHsocial 

Speakers: 

Daniela Elazari, Director of Well-Being, Columbia University’s Office of Work/Life

Lisa Ryan, Chief Appreciation Strategist at Grategy

KristyAnne Thompson Boyd, Employment Attorney & HR Practitio

HR Works Podcast: Strategies for Building a Resilient and Engaged Workforce

In this episode of A Seat at the Table, we dive deep into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Veronica Calderon, Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer at DeVry University.

Calderon shares invaluable insights on how HR leaders can leverage education and training to drive meaningful DEI change, the importance of embedding DEI into an organization’s DNA, and the power of authentic leadership. We also explore the critical role of belonging in a successful DEI strategy and much more.

HR Works Presents A Seat at the Table: Leading with Intention—A Conversation with Veronica Calderon

In this episode of HR Works, Maureen O’Neill, DEI Officer at Consilio, the global leader in legal enterprise technology solutions and services, joins to discuss the latest DEI trends in the workplace and what HR leaders can expect in the coming year. We’ll also discuss the importance of listening to employees’ unique needs, the challenges of overemphasizing talk over action, and much more.

HR Works Podcast: 2025 DEI Trends—What HR Leaders Need to Know (Part I)

Welcome back to HR Works! In this episode, we continue our conversation with Maureen O’Neill, DEI Officer at Consilio, the global leader in legal enterprise technology solutions and services. Listen in as she discusses the latest DEI trends in the workplace and what HR leaders can expect in the coming year.

HR Works Podcast: 2025 DEI Trends—What HR Leaders Need to Know (Part 2)

As we navigate the challenges of 2025, building a resilient workforce is crucial. This throwback episode of HR Works podcast emphasizes the enduring value and power of organizational effectiveness. Learn how to build a thriving workforce that can adapt and succeed in any environment. Simon Taylor, a globally recognized organizational leadership thought leader and Head of Organizational Effectiveness at Gap Inc., joins to discuss the importance of maintaining a dedicated workforce strategy built to withstand challenges and ultimately lead to long-term success.

HR Works Podcast: Build Teams That Can Thrive During Change

This week’s HR Works podcast is a powerful clip from HR Daily Advisor’s webinar, “How the New Labor Secretary Will shape HR.”

Our expert panelists Rachel Ullrich, partner at FordHarrison, and Nicholas Kowalczyk, Vice President, Chief Risk, Compliance, & Privacy Officer at Kelly Services, discussed critical legal and regulatory changes impacting HR leaders in 2025 including independent contractor law, unionization trends, immigration regulations, and more.

This conversation is a must-listen and essential for any HR professional seeking the knowledge to navigate these challenges and ensure your organization remains compliant and successful.

Listen to the full webinar here: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4782498/BD00E1C823944B3C97CCCF473F2448D5?partnerref=DASiteListing

HR Works Podcast: Navigating the New Labor Landscape

As we embark on a new year, the imperative to advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace remains stronger than ever. DEI has evolved from a buzzword to an indispensable strategy for employers who prioritize the work.

In this episode of HR Works podcast, Antoine Andrews, Chief Diversity & Social Impact Officer at SurveyMonkey, joins to discuss the core principles of DEI, dispel common misconceptions and explore its transformative power. We’ll also examine the critical role of curiosity and open-mindedness to drive meaningful change in the workplace.

HR Works Podcast: The Miseducation of DEI

DEI is under disruption like never before. The question is, what can HR leaders do about it? What do they tell their teams? That's why the HR Works podcast is rolling out "Deconstructing DEIB," a series designed to cut through the confusion. In this series, we'll take a deep dive into the often-misunderstood concepts of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). We're going beyond the buzzwords, exploring the nuances of each element and examining how they intersect to truly impact the employee experience.

Through insightful conversations with industry experts and thought leaders, we'll unpack what DEIB really means and uncover practical strategies for creating a truly inclusive workplace so HR can lead the way in building truly inclusive workplaces.

In the first episode of our four-part series, we challenge traditional notions of diversity and explore how the focus on the concept can sometimes unintentionally exclude or alienate employees.

Cynthia McEwen, Head of DE&I and VP of People at Progyny, joins to discuss how a broader understanding of diversity, recognizing that "difference" exists in all of us, can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone. We'll dive into the interconnectedness of employee engagement, DEI initiatives, and overall company culture, and discuss how HR leaders can foster a truly inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and respected.

HR Works Podcast: Deconstructing Diversity—Everyone Belongs

Keisha Nakwa, Director of Talent and Culture at KeyBridge Compliance, and Randy Lytes, Assistant Director of Equity & Compliance at Michigan State University, join HR Work Break to share practical insights to tackle recruiting challenges and strengthen compliance frameworks in their organizations.

HR Work Break: 3 Crucial Errors In Your Compliance Approach to Hiring

DEI. It’s a hot topic, but it’s also a complex one—and it’s under disruption like never before. We’re seeing a lot of confusion, and frankly, some backsliding when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The question is, what can HR leaders do about it? What do they tell their teams? That’s why the HR Works podcast has rolled out “Deconstructing DEIB,” a series designed to cut through the confusion.

In this series, we’ll take a deep dive into the often-misunderstood concepts of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), going beyond the buzzwords, exploring the nuances of each element and examining how they intersect to truly impact the employee experience.

In the second episode of our four-part series, we deconstruct equity, which often gets misunderstood. What does it really mean in the workplace? How can HR leaders move beyond good intentions and create a truly level playing field?

Jennifer Martinez, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer and Partner at Hanson Bridgett joins to discuss. Jennifer leads the firm’s DEI consulting practice to assist other businesses with DEI initiatives, helping them navigate how to continue to promote and support equality efforts in the current climate.

HR Works Podcast: Deconstructing Equity—Leveling the Playing Field

Karen Guzicki, HCI Faculty Member, shares how her passion for HR is driven by helping professionals solve impactful challenges using effective tools and strategies. In a world where employee engagement is essential, leaders must be authentic, curious, and growth-oriented.

HR Work Break: Leading with Curiosity and Growth

Welcome back to our ‘Deconstructing DEIB” series.

DEI is under disruption like never before. The question is, what can HR leaders do about it? What do they tell their teams? That's why the HR Works podcast has rolled out "Deconstructing DEIB," a series designed to cut through the confusion. In this series, we take a deep dive into the often-misunderstood concepts of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), going beyond the buzzwords, exploring the nuances of each element and examining how they intersect to truly impact the employee experience.

In the third part of our four-part series, we're Deconstructing Inclusion. Inclusion is more than just representation. It’s about creating a workplace where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard. But how do we get there?

This episode of HR Works explores what inclusion truly means in practice. Kristine Santa-Coloma Rohls, Chief People Officer and Chief Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Officer at Slalom Consulting, shares her invaluable insights.

HR Works Podcast: Deconstructing Inclusion—Creating a Sense of Belonging

In the latest episode of HR Works, Liz Almeida, Chief Human Resources Officer at Panasonic Corporation of North America, joins. Almeida isn't just managing HR; she's orchestrating a symphony of potential. Driven by a passion to 'unlock potential,' her approach transcends conventional HR practices, creating an environment where employees truly thrive.

Listen in as we explore her unique insights on building engagement, fostering trust through vulnerability, and navigating the rapid changes in technology and the workplace. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the strategies that can transform your workplace from a source of routine to a hub of innovation and human potential.

HR Works Podcast: No Limits—Liz Almeida on Cultivating Potential and the Future of Work

In Episode 91 of HR Works, we discuss the EEO-1 Component 2 Compensation Data reporting rule, which is due for submission on the 30th of September of this year. 

We have two attorneys joining us to discuss this: Partner Maggie Spell and Senior Partner Mark Adams of Jones Walker LLP. They both work in the great City of New Orleans in Louisiana in one of Jones Walker’s 15 locations.

For more than 30 years, Mark has represented employers in disputes before federal and state courts and regulatory agencies. Drawing on the depth and breadth of his experience, he counsels employers on the development of effective human resources policies, procedures, and strategies for complying with federal and state labor and employment laws. He also works with businesses to limit exposure to employment claims, litigation, and government agency investigations.

Maggie focuses her practice on cases brought under federal, state, and local employment laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. She regularly offers wage and hour compliance advice and has represented employers in numerous Fair Labor Standards Act collective actions and state-law wage and hour class actions.

The official FAQ's can be found here:
https://eeoccomp2.norc.org/Faq

And the article that Mark mentioned can be found here:
https://hrdailyadvisor.blr.com/2019/07/12/no-henny-penny-the-sky-isnt-falling-eeo-1-pay-data-portal-goes-live-soon/

Finally, if you want to learn more, please consider joining our webinar on August 23rd at 1:30 p.m. Eastern time entitled, "EEO-1 Report Double Whammy: How to Meet the Sept. 30 Filing Deadline So You Don't Get Sued." Nita Beecher of Fortney & Scott, LLC will help you feel prepared to accurately file the necessary information for the annual EEO-1 survey. This webinar will feature live Q&A: https://store.blr.com/eeo-1-reporting-082319

HR Works 91: What Happens If You Don't File Your EEO-1 Component 2 Compensation Data?

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