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

Guest: Kathy Cullen-Cote, Chief People Officer at Teradata

What does it mean to have a fully flexible work environment in 2023? What elements of the employee experience need to be factored into making a decision on the balance between in-office and remote work?

In this latest episode of the HR Works Podcast, Kathy Cullen-Cote, Teradata‘s Chief People Officer, helps us understand what it means to embrace a fully flexible work environment – one that provides employees with the right balance between in-office and remote work, all without sacrificing the employee experience. An expert in building engaged, connected, and caring workplace cultures, Kathy explains how organizations and their HR leadership teams are being defined by their decisions of being in-office, fully remote, or hybrid and shares how HR leaders can best determine the right balance for their workforce.

HR Works Podcast 255: What Does Workplace Flexibility Mean in 2023?

In honor of HR Daily Advisor’s 2024 HR Employee Experience & Company Culture Now event, this week’s episode of HR Works is a popular gem from our archive.

As the employee experience continues to become more and more personalized, how can HR teams help ensure their company culture remains shared and unified? What are the most-effective ways for HR teams to measure and truly understand the impact of their employee experience?

Kamaria Scott, founder and CEO of consulting firm Enetic, joined the HR Works Podcast to help us answer these questions and more! Listen in as Kamaria discusses the path to creating effective corporate cultures and building an employee experience that supports personalization, while maintaining a shared and distinct identity.

Don’t forget to register for our Now event, which kicks off today and runs through Wednesday, July 5th!

HR Works Podcast: Can the Employee Experience Be Personalized and Shared?

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 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 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)

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 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

Welcome back to HR Works, and our ongoing 'Deconstructing DEIB' series.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren't just buzzwords anymore—they're battlegrounds. We're seeing them play out in boardrooms and on the news, and it's leaving HR leaders wondering, 'How do we navigate this?'

Today, we're cutting through the confusion with Amira Berger, a leading DEI expert and MSNBC Contributor. Amira reminds us that 'DEI is not a trend, it's a necessity,' and that now's not the time for half-measures, performative actions or fluffy initiatives that don't move the needle, telling us, 'Employee trust is currency.'

So, what can HR leaders do? How can they build genuine belonging when the stakes are so high? Per my guest, the first step is to get smart about it. Listen in as we dive into how to reframe DEI as business resilience and risk mitigation, moving beyond defense to build for the future. As Berger emphasizes, 'Employees expect their companies and leaders to stand firm and not back pedal.' We'll learn how HR leaders can tell their teams, 'We’re not here to play defense, we’re here to build workplaces where everyone thrives, not just because it’s trendy, but because it’s good business and good for the humans that are entrusted for care.' 

HR Works Podcast: Deconstructing Belonging—Trust Is Key

In the latest episode of HR Works, we're tackling talent attraction, development, and retention with Fran Maxwell, Managing Director at Protiviti. Attracting talent is only half the battle – retention is key. Losing staff costs a lot, especially entry-level at 50% salary. Fran reveals how understanding and meeting team needs boosts retention and drives business goals. With 25-plus years in HR and transformation, Fran's insights are a must-hear.

HR Works Podcast: The Retention Revolution

Regina Sheridan, with a background rooted in global philanthropy and now Executive Vice President, People & Culture at Libra Group, brings a unique perspective to the evolving workplace. She understands that the next generation, Gen Z and Gen Alpha, are not just seeking jobs, but purpose-driven experiences.

This episode of HR Works dives into how companies can adapt to meet the expectations of these digital natives, who prioritize social responsibility and environmental sustainability. Regina shares insights on building a workplace that resonates with their values, fostering a culture of impact, and preparing for the future of work.

HR Works Podcast: Libra Group's People Leader on Building a Purpose-Driven Workplace

In today's fast-paced business world, traditional leadership models often fall short. Tune in as we dive into the groundbreaking concepts of "Layered Leadership" with Lawrence Armstrong, Chairman of Ware Malcomb and author of the new book of the same name.

In this episode of HR Works, discover how to tap into both the creative and strategic sides of your brain to drive double-digit growth, build resilient teams, and cultivate a culture of innovation. This episode is a must-listen for any HR professional seeking to unlock their team's full potential and achieve sustainable success.

HR Works Podcast: Unleashing Innovation with Creativity, Strategy, and Leadership (Part 1)

Welcome back to part two of our conversation with Lawrence Armstrong, Chairman of Ware Malcomb and author of Layered Leadership.

In today’s fast-paced business world, traditional leadership models often fall short. Tune in as we dive into the groundbreaking concepts of “Layered Leadership,” Armstrong’s holistic, humanist approach to leadership, which centers on developing well-rounded leaders within any organization. In this episode of HR Works, discover how to tap into both the creative and strategic sides of your brain to drive double-digit growth, build resilient teams, and cultivate a culture of innovation.

HR Works Podcast: Unleashing Innovation with Creativity, Strategy, and Leadership (Part 2)

In this episode, HR Daily Advisor Content Director Erika Randall catches up with the delightful Ben Eubanks, author and Chief Research Officer at Lighthouse Research & Advisory, at SPARK HR 2025 in Disney Springs. Eubanks’ research includes surveying thousands of workers each year to understand the latest workplace trends. In this podcast, Randall and Eubanks have a lively chat about Eubanks’ books, the workshops he led at SPARK, and how to help HR leaders solve workplace issues using “innovation sprints.”

Eubanks’ books include:

Artificial Intelligence for HR: Use AI to Support and Develop a Successful Workforce

Talent Scarcity: How to Hire and Retain a Shrinking Workforce

Payroll Promise: Trust, Not Just Transactions

Did you miss SPARK HR this spring? Not to worry! Join us live in San Antonio at SPARK TALENT 2025 and get practical strategies focusing on workforce planning, talent acquisition, and AI-driven processes! Discover proven solutions from top HR thought leaders from PepsiCo, Walmart, Staples, The Coca-Cola Company, Marriott, and GE HealthCare, and get ready to adapt your talent strategy for the future.


HR Works Podcast: Why HR Leaders Should Use Innovation Sprints for Problem-Solving

When I first took over this podcast, my very first guest was Ira Wolfe, and we talked about what HR might look like in 2025.  By all accounts, we were well on track to realize that future. But then the pandemic hit and that future has largely been changed.

You may also listen here: https://bit.ly/350BEzc

In this episode I am pleased to have Ira back with us to ask a few more follow up questions, including what will HR look like next year, and what will it look like by 2030 and 2035?

Ira is the president of Success Performance Solutions (https://www.successperformancesolutions.com/), which excels in pre-employment testing software for sales, leadership, service, and production across a number of industries.

In addition to being a blogger and prolific business writer, Ira is an accomplished speaker, having visited the stages of TEDx and DisruptHR. He has also published books such as The Perfect Labor Storm and Recruiting in the Age of Googlization: When the Shift Hits Your Plan.

HR Works 122: What Will HR Look Like in 2021 and Beyond?

HR Works provides clear, relevant, actionable information on topics that matter to human resources (HR) professionals

Popular tracks by HR Works: The Podcast for Human Resources