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Mary Ellen Slayter and Steve Smith of Rep Cap join Punk Rock HR to talk about the state of the job market, the reality behind AI hype, and what’s actually changing in work tech and HR tech. Drawing on decades as journalists turned operators, they break down why this moment feels uniquely disorienting and where real opportunity still exists. From capital shifts and consolidation to brand, people investment, and human connection, Mary Ellen and Steve share what’s breaking, what’s quietly working, and why 2026 may mark a turning point for companies willing to think long term. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why today’s job market feels brutal despite strong labor numbers How AI hype differs from real innovation in work tech Why VC-era assumptions are gone and what replaces them Where private equity, consolidation, and M&A are reshaping the market Why brand and long-term value matter more than short-term performance Where optimism still exists for work, people, and leadership in 2026

Scott Stratten, speaker and author joins Punk Rock HR to talk about the hype, fear, and noise around AI in HR. Instead of focusing on tools, he asks why they exist in the first place and what they mean for the future of work. From AI bots in interviews to the risk of HR jobs disappearing in the next 24 months, Scott brings the truth. He calls for the act of slowing down, asking better questions, and remembering that HR’s role is to defend humanity at work. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why interviews with AI bots are dehumanizing for candidates The biggest red flags HR should watch for with AI adoption How “efficiency” is often a cover for economic cruelty Why HR jobs may vanish in 24–36 months without reinvention What a pre-mortem can teach us about slowing down AI adoption How referrals and relationships still drive most hiring Why universal basic income is entering the conversation The true value of HR: advocacy and human connection

Laura Maffucci, Head of HR at G-P, joins Punk Rock HR to explore how AI and global employment solutions are reshaping the HR landscape. From “agentic AI” and compliance challenges to the human side of leadership, Laura shares what HR leaders need to know about embracing AI responsibly while unlocking global talent with Employer of Record services. In this episode, you’ll hear: What an Employer of Record (EOR) is and why it matters in today’s global labor market The difference between generic AI and “agentic AI” built for safe, HR-specific use Why HR jobs aren’t going away, but the work is changing How leaders can create safe AI adoption practices at work Real HR use cases for AI, from summarizing investigations to tracking compliance changes The risks of over-relying on AI and why human judgment remains essential Why global talent strategy is becoming a must-have for companies

Blair Whitman, VP of Client Success at Homethrive, joins Punk Rock HR to talk about the stigma around caregiving, why it’s a workforce issue, and how companies can move beyond performative support. From personal caregiving stories to the ROI of real benefits, Blair shares how employers can create cultures that support both productivity and compassion. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why many people don’t identify as caregivers and why it matters How caregiving impacts careers, especially for women What managers can do to support employees under strain The difference between EAPs and deeper caregiving support How caregiving benefits deliver real ROI for companies Why including men in the caregiving conversation is essential The unexpected joy and beauty that come with caregiving

Robin Schooling, a luminary in the HR field, joins the Punk Rock HR Podcast for a compelling conversation about her new book, “Real HR: What It Is, What It Can Be, and How to Get There.” Robin shares personal and professional milestones, including a health scare that inspired her to complete her decade-long writing project. Her story is one of resilience and passion, challenging the absurdities of the HR world and advocating for practices grounded in authenticity. Laurie and Robin explore the intriguing contradictions within the field, highlighting Robin’s unwavering commitment to reshaping HR into a more genuine and impactful profession. The episode addresses common myths about HR, including the misconception that HR should handle all emotional labor and solely protect the company. Laurie and Robin argue for a more nuanced understanding of HR’s role in ensuring fair systems and highlight the growing importance of technology in the workplace. With anecdotes of resourcefulness in budget-constrained environments, such as utilizing emerging technologies like SMS-based chatbots, they showcase the ingenuity required to thrive in HR today. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for those eager to see HR evolve beyond traditional confines, offering inspiration and innovative ideas for making significant strides in the field. In this episode, you will hear: Robin Schooling’s book, “Real HR: What It Is, What It Can Be, and How to Get There” Insights into Robin's personal and professional journey, including a health scare that inspired her to complete her book Debunking common HR myths, such as HR's role in emotional labor and solely protecting the company Emphasizing the importance of fair and equitable systems in HR practices Exploring the integration of technology in HR, including early adoption of tools like SMS-based chatbots Resourcefulness in HR, especially in budget-constrained environments Advocating for authentic, innovative, and impactful HR practices that challenge traditional boundaries Resources from this Episode Robin Schooling website: robinschooling.com Connect with Robin on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robinschooling Find Robin on Threads: www.threads.com/@robinschooling Get “Real HR: What It Is, What It Can Be, and How to Get There”: realhrbook.com Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Facing a brain tumor and navigating menopause were not challenges Christine Muldoon ever anticipated would redefine her role as a leader and a woman. Her story is a powerful testament to the resilience and empathy that arise from confronting personal health challenges head-on. On this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Christine, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategy at WebMD Health Services, offers an intimate look at her journey toward well-being, highlighting the importance of self-care and robust support systems both at home and in the workplace. As societal expectations shift, so too does the landscape of workplace well-being. Christine and Laurie explore the evolving strategies that now prioritize an employee's mental and emotional health in tandem with physical well-being. Christine's commitment to breaking down the stigma around menopause in the professional world is both inspiring and necessary, as she shares her vision for a more inclusive and understanding approach to women's health issues at work. Her insight is a reminder of the vital role organizations play in nurturing an environment where all employees feel valued and supported. At the heart of the conversation is a call to action for organizations to create a culture of well-being that extends beyond mere programs. Christine details how WebMD Health Services is leading the charge with personalized initiatives like WebMD One, which seamlessly incorporates health coaching and wellness challenges to build a sense of community and connection among employees. By sharing success stories and emphasizing the need for open dialogue, Christine and Laurie hope to inspire a movement toward workplaces where well-being isn't just an afterthought but a cornerstone of daily operations. In this episode, you will hear: Christine Muldoon's personal journey with a brain tumor and menopause, and its impact on her leadership style and well-being focus Evolution of workplace well-being strategies, emphasizing mental, emotional, and caregiving support Importance of creating a supportive and inclusive work culture that addresses women's health issues, like menopause WebMD Health Services' initiatives, such as WebMD One, to foster community and connection through personalized well-being programs Role of health coaching and digital tools in enhancing employee wellness and setting personalized health goals Breaking the stigma of menopause in the workplace and promoting open dialogue and education Empowering organizations to integrate well-being into their culture beyond mere programs, enhancing productivity and employee satisfaction Resources from this Episode WebMD Health Services: https://www.webmdhealthservices.com/ 4 Ways To Support Women’s Well-Being at Work: www.webmdhealthservices.com/resources/tip-sheets/4-ways-to-support-womens-well-being-at-work Christine Muldoon on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/christine-muldoon-0417525 WebMD Health Services Podcasts: www.webmdhealthservices.com/podcasts Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Ever pondered the hidden complexities behind AI and HR compliance? On this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Laurie sits down with Joel Stupka, the Enterprise Partnerships Director at PosterElite and podcast host of HR Snacks. Using his expertise, they explore the unsung hero of HR compliance—the labor law poster. They also touch on the serious financial penalties businesses face for non-compliance. Joel shares how PosterElite’s innovative digital solutions transform how companies maintain compliance across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring they stay ahead of the ever-changing legal landscape. Laurie and Joel also dissect the experience of attending the Transform conference, a unique blend of networking and engaging discussions at The Wynn. While the conference focused on AI, Joel and Laurie reflect on the need for patience and human-centric solutions during rapid technological advancements.  In this episode, you will hear: The critical role of labor law posters in maintaining compliance and avoiding significant fines Automating compliance processes to free HR professionals for more strategic tasks PosterElite's digital solutions for keeping labor law posters up-to-date Reflections on the Transform conference and the desire for more diverse and practical session topics beyond AI The complexities and challenges of AI adoption in large organizations and its impact on HR compliance The importance of human-centric solutions and the social implications of AI in the workplace Patience and realistic expectations in the early stages of AI integration in businesses Resources from this Episode PosterElite: posterelite.com Joel Stupka on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joelstupka HR Snacks Newsletter: www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7049840001571844096 Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Have you ever wondered what differentiates a skilled moderator from a polished keynote speaker? On this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, join Laurie as she unpacks her recent experiences navigating the challenging art of moderating panels. Unlike delivering a keynote, which thrives on preparation and repetition, moderating requires a balance of research, adaptability, and quick thinking. Laurie guides you through the intricacies of steering dynamic conversations, from understanding the nuances of your panelists to maintaining an engaging flow that captivates the audience. Laurie shares advice on preparation techniques, connecting with your panelists, and responding to the curveballs that inevitably come your way. It is crucial to embrace a flexible approach and anticipate potential challenges with a strategic premortem to create memorable experiences that resonate with your audience. In this episode, you will hear: Contrasting panel moderation with keynote speaking: preparation vs. spontaneity Importance of deep topic and panelist knowledge for successful moderation Key strategies: optimal panel size, session duration, and engaging opening questions The role of a moderator in guiding dynamic and memorable discussions Tips for preparation: conducting a premortem and rehearsing flow Resources from this Episode Glennon Doyle: momastery.com/blog/about-glennon Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Joey Price, a thought leader in Human Resources and the author of “The Power of HR: How to Make an Organizational Impact as a People Professional,” joins Laurie to uncover the evolving landscape of HR in a digital-first world. This episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast discusses the crucial role HR plays in shaping modern workplaces, focusing on transforming HR into strategic partners who understand the business motivations driving organizational change. Joey, the CEO of Jumpstart HR and Aspect43, brings his experience and insights to the table, empowering HR professionals with practical strategies to tackle challenges like automation and AI. Through engaging storytelling, they explore various career paths in HR, blending elements of law, technology, and marketing, and discuss ways to create a fulfilling and enjoyable work environment. Laurie and Joey’s conversation looks at the unexpected journeys many take into HR, including Laurie’s own, and shines a light on the critical skills HR professionals must develop to stay relevant. As AI increasingly influences managerial practices and team dynamics, they provide valuable resources for staying informed and proactive. Joey shares his philosophy of making work not just a job but a source of joy and satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of balance and fulfillment. He also highlights his collaboration with Aspect43, showcasing his dedication to supporting small businesses and enhancing HR practitioner experiences. Whether you're a seasoned HR veteran or just starting, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the future of HR effectively. In this episode, you will hear: The role of HR in a digital-first world, featuring insights from Joey Price Importance of HR as strategic thought partners and the evolving HR landscape Challenges and opportunities presented by automation and AI in HR Exploring dynamic career paths in HR that blend law, technology, and marketing Creating fulfilling work environments and the philosophy of joyful workplaces The collaboration with Aspect43 to enhance small business HR experiences Strategies for HR professionals to stay relevant and engaged in the future Resources from this Episode Jumpstart HR: www.jumpstart-hr.com Aspect43: aspect43.com “The Power of HR: How to Make an Organizational Impact as a People Professional” book: amzn.to/41xoF4W Joey Price on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joeyvprice Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Laurie's chaotic upbringing taught survival. Resilience revealed her true path. In this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Laurie draws inspiration from her unique journey and explores the balance between knowing when to offer help and when silence is the greatest gift. Motivated by Oprah Winfrey's thought-provoking question, "What do I owe people?", Laurie shares her insights, challenges the status quo, and inspires others to reflect on their own journey. Laurie shares her story of overcoming a high Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) score and turning adversity into significant personal and professional growth. Whether you're an HR professional, a leader, or someone curious about the raw truths of work and life, this episode is about finding purpose and resilience despite life's challenges. In this episode, you will hear: Navigating adversity and finding purpose in life and career, especially in HR Reflection on Oprah Winfrey's question, “What do I owe people?” Personal journey from a chaotic childhood to professional success The significance of resilience and transformation in personal growth Insights into the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) scale and its impact Balancing self-leadership with knowing when to help or remain silent Challenges faced in the HR community and broader social issues Resources from this Episode Punk Rock HR Podcast: laurieruettimann.com/podcast ACES Test: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/03/02/387007941/take-the-ace-quiz-and-learn-what-it-does-and-doesnt-mean  Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Harvard Law alum and Bryce Legal's CEO, Shauna Bryce, shares her journey from legal practice to transformative career coaching on this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast. Shauna shares her inspiring journey from pursuing a partnership at a law firm to becoming an entrepreneur and executive coach. She highlights how aligning our careers with our values can lead to a fulfilling life. Her insights are invaluable for anyone feeling the weight of the legal industry's pressures, providing a roadmap to finding authenticity and satisfaction in one's career while navigating the intricate landscape of law. We also explore the fascinating connections between capitalism and employee well-being, especially in high-pressure environments like the legal field. We highlight the incredible power of personal agency in tackling challenging work situations. Through inspiring stories of personal branding and self-perception, you’ll uncover how thoughtful self-representation can elevate your career to exciting new heights! Whether it's an undervalued attorney who climbed to the C-suite or a top executive reimagining her career from inside a toxic job, learn how to reshape your professional narrative and unlock new growth opportunities. In this episode, you will hear: Shauna Bryce's transition from legal practice to career coaching for lawyers and executives Aligning career paths with personal values for fulfillment Challenges of capitalism and employee well-being in high-pressure legal environments Strategies for personal branding to advance careers Empowering lawyers to navigate workplace challenges and opt for authentic career paths Success stories of career growth through rebranding and skill development Overcoming disillusionment and societal expectations in the legal profession Resources from this Episode Bryce Legal: brycelegal.com Shauna Bryce on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shaunabryce Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Could understanding autism help create more inclusive spaces—at work and in life? On this episode of Punk Rock HR, host Laurie Ruettimann talks with Dr. Lisa Scott, an assistant professor of psychology at Utah Tech University. Dr. Scott has spent her career teaching, practicing therapy, consulting with businesses, focusing on important topics like autism and neurodiversity. Together, they explore the concepts of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities—what they mean, how they show up, and why understanding the nuances matters. Dr. Scott explains how a late-in-life autism diagnosis can be life-changing, not just for self-acceptance but for navigating professional spaces. She and Laurie discuss how most workplaces are designed for neurotypical and non-autistic employees and what needs to change—from better management strategies to seeing accommodations as a way to unlock talent rather than a “compliance issue.” They also examine the rising trend of women, particularly in midlife, self-diagnosing autism and how social media has played a role in raising awareness. At the heart of their conversation is a simple idea: curiosity and empathy create better workplaces and stronger communities. Dr. Scott challenges listeners to rethink neurodiversity not as a problem to fix or work around, but as a perspective to embrace. This episode offers fresh insights and practical takeaways for anyone looking to build a more inclusive workplace. In this episode, you will hear: What neurodiversity really means beyond the buzzwords How an autism diagnosis can shift someone’s career and life Why flexible work isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential The connection between self-diagnosis, social media, and late autism discoveries in women What companies—especially in tech—can do to better support neurodivergent employees Resources from this Episode Dr. Lisa Scott, Psychology Today: www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/lisa-scott-saint-george-ut/1152464 Connect with Dr. Scott on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-scott-b3aa50100 Dr. Scott on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr_everybrain/# Follow and Review: If you haven’t yet, we’d love for you to follow us. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

On today’s episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Ryan Leary and William Tincup are Laurie’s guests. They share their fascinating journey to building the WRKdefined Podcast Network. They spotlight the power of podcasting by revealing how meaningful content can be created without extravagant equipment. It is a thought-provoking exploration into the essence of authentic conversations, where we aim to challenge the status quo and foster impactful dialogues. Ryan and William reflect on their personal journeys and the evolution of their network, which is dedicated to exploring work-related content. Ryan shares his adventurous career transition from Enterprise Rent-A-Car to recruiting and how it ultimately led us to collaborate on this podcast network. As they expand, they’re embracing a diverse array of shows, including the popular BARF show. The goal is to grow to 100 shows by the year’s end, creating a vibrant community enriched by deep analytics, promotions, and community building while keeping their commitment to valuable content. And they offer aspiring podcasters insights and advice on crafting their podcasts, including theme development, setup, and technology tips. They emphasize authenticity in podcasting, drawing inspiration from celebrated interviewers like Terry Gross and Phil Donahue. Focusing on creating a supportive and collaborative environment, Ryan and William discuss their vision for 2025, which includes integrating wellness and leadership topics into their programming. Ryan and William are excited to attract advertisers and build a hub for innovative ideas and engaging conversations related to work and its many facets.

After a life-changing DUI arrest, Cassandra Worthy discovered the power of self-awareness and authenticity. She transformed her struggle with alcohol dependency into a journey of personal growth and resilience, channeling her experiences into a successful career in change management. On this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Cassandra opens up about the crossroads of personal and professional transformation, sharing how embracing her queer identity and overcoming challenges fueled her passion for guiding organizations through change. Cassandra Worthy is the innovative force behind Change Enthusiasm Global. She brings her unique perspective on emotional waste and its impact on organizations. As a former chemical engineer who navigated the turbulence of multi-billion-dollar acquisitions, Cassandra knows firsthand that mindset trumps strategy when it comes to change. She reveals how recognizing and harnessing emotions can catalyze transformation, offering insights into the dynamic, nonlinear change growth cycle that revolutionizes traditional approaches to change management. Change management takes on a new meaning as we explore the crucial role of mindset in adopting technological advancements like AI. Cassandra shares practical exercises from her book “Change Enthusiasm: How to Harness the Power of Emotion for Leadership and Success,” empowering leaders to enhance their organizations' readiness for change. Learn how fostering a culture of curiosity and enthusiasm can elevate your team's potential, especially in challenging times such as layoffs, and discover how embracing emotions and building trust can transform your leadership approach. In this episode, you will hear: Cassandra Worthy's path from a DUI arrest to a change management and advocacy career Introduction to Change Enthusiasm, a method using emotions as catalysts for transformation Mindset over strategy in successful change management Modernizing change leadership with a dynamic, nonlinear growth cycle The role of emotional agility and self-awareness in navigating personal and professional transformations Importance of mindset in adopting AI and technological advancements Practical exercises and insights from Cassandra's book, “Change Enthusiasm: How to Harness the Power of Emotion for Leadership and Success” Resources from this Episode Cassandra Worthy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cassandraworthy Cassandra’s website: cassandraworthy.com The Change Growth Accelerator Experience: go.changeenthusiasmglobal.com/growth-accelerator Get the “Change Enthusiasm” book: amzn.to/3WCNiKU Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

This episode of Punk Rock HR is proudly sponsored by Mercer. Mercer helps organizations create Total Rewards strategies that attract top talent, inspire engagement, and drive results. To learn more, visit mercer.com/insights/total-rewards. On this episode of the Punk Rock HR Podcast, Laurie sits down with Gord Frost, a seasoned pro in HR consulting and currently a global rewards solution leader at Mercer. With over 30 years in the field, Gord has a deep well of knowledge about creating total rewards strategies beyond salary and bonuses. He shares insights on how companies can develop reward systems that resonate with their employees and align with their core values. Laurie and Gord discuss innovative ways of blending benefits, healthcare, and financial well-being into total rewards systems. This approach helps companies communicate their values more effectively, attract top talent, and increase employee engagement. The conversation also touches on how AI is changing the HR landscape by automating routine tasks, freeing HR professionals to focus on more strategic and impactful work. You’ll learn key elements for designing successful total rewards packages for future workforces. These include empowering managers to support their teams better and promoting pay transparency to build trust and fairness within the company. Laurie and Gord also discuss modern employee analytics as essential tools for understanding workforce dynamics and tailoring reward strategies to fit a diverse and evolving group of employees. Don’t miss this conversation emphasizing a comprehensive approach to total rewards to boost organizational effectiveness and employee satisfaction. In this episode, you will hear: Importance of crafting comprehensive total rewards strategies to attract and retain talent Role of AI and advanced analytics in transforming HR processes and enhancing total rewards leadership Need for collaboration among HR teams to break down silos and improve employee engagement Manager enablement as a critical factor in effective communication about compensation and benefits Growing significance of pay transparency regulations and preparing managers for open discussions Emphasis on employee well-being and its integration into total rewards strategies Vision for HR as a strategic advisory powerhouse by 2026, focusing on proactive talent strategies Resources from this Episode Gord Frost on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gord-frost Mercer Total Rewards: mercer.com/insights/total-rewards Five strategies to future-fit your Total Rewards programs:  www.mercer.com/future-fit-rewards  Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.