Advertise on podcast: HR & Cocktails

Your customer experience is only as good as your employee experience. In this episode, Kimberly Prescott sits down with Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR, to talk about how the way you treat your team shows up in every customer interaction. They cover why the experience starts before day one, how bloated interview processes drive candidates away, and what it takes to set people up for success with training, feedback, and clear expectations. Amber also explains what white glove service really looks like, why nonprofits see such low turnover, and how psychological safety keeps small mistakes from becoming big ones. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails, including a from-scratch Bloody Mary with an Old Bay rim! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR

That free NDA you downloaded might be the most expensive document you own. In this episode, Kimberly Prescott sits down with Aisha Massengill of Sedgwick Andrews, to talk about why off-the-shelf templates put small businesses at risk. Drawing on 30 years of practicing law, Ayesha explains how a borrowed handbook can obligate you to COBRA, FMLA, and progressive discipline you never had to offer, why Maryland's non-compete salary threshold trips up employers, and how "employment at will" is more holes than substance. They also dig into documentation, performance improvement plans done right, and why hubris costs six figures. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails, including a dirty gin martini with blue cheese olives! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Aisha Massengill of Sedgwick Andrews

Your 401k isn't just a benefit. It's a message to your workforce. In this episode, Kimberly Prescott sits down with Mike Camerata, Partner at Tai Creek Financial Group, to break down how employers can use 401k plans as a strategic retention tool. They cover the biggest misconceptions about cost and complexity, the plan design features that drive real participation (auto-enrollment, auto-increase, and matching formulas), and why safe harbor plans are the go-to for most small businesses. Mike also explains the key differences between Maryland Saves and a customized 401k, and why communication is just as important as the plan itself. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails, including a Sazerac, the official drink of New Orleans! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Mike Camerata, Partner at Tai Creek Financial Group

Fractional HR sounds great in theory, but how does it actually work? In this episode, Kimberly Prescott sits down with Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR, to break down what fractional HR really means and why it's often misunderstood. They discuss the difference between what managers should handle versus what HR does, common misconceptions about outsourced HR support, and the full range of services fractional HR provides: from handbooks and onboarding to strategic planning and compliance. Amber shares real examples of when fractional HR clicks perfectly with clients and when expectations miss the mark, plus why HR is nothing like accounting or bookkeeping (despite what job ads might say). We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails, including a Hotel Nacional straight from Puerto Rico!Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HRGuest: Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR

In this episode of HR and Cocktails, Kimberly Prescott sits down with employment attorney Morgan Thomas Harried of Gordon Feinblatt, LLC to unpack when you need HR, when you need an attorney, and why most organizations actually need both. They talk about the limits of Google and AI for HR decisions, how wage transparency and leave laws really play out in practice, and how HR handles day-to-day implementation while legal keeps you compliant. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails, including an apple cider old fashioned. Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Morgan Thomas Harried, Employment Attorney at Gordon Feinblatt LLC

A bad interview process can cost you great talent. In this episode, Kimberly Prescott sits down with Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR, to talk about how to design interviews that actually work. They discuss what makes candidates drop out, how to simplify applications, and why shorter, smarter interviews lead to better hires. Amber shares practical tips for phone screens, panel interviews, and training managers to stay compliant while finding the right fit. It’s all about creating a better experience for candidates and for your company. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Amber Trail, Managing Consultant at Prescott HR

Guest: Sara Bordeaux, Founder of Purposed HR When employees understand why their work matters, everything changes. In this we talk about how purpose fuels engagement, culture, and performance. They explore what it really means to build a purpose-driven workplace, from hiring and onboarding to leadership and retention, and why intentionality is the secret to keeping your team inspired. Sara shares real-life examples of how defining purpose transforms company culture and helps attract top talent. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR

In this episode, we’re diving into the benefits of training and development plans and why they’re not the same thing. We break down the distinction between training and development. Our conversation explores how companies can use development plans not only to manage performance more effectively, but also to create meaningful succession opportunities. Tune in to hear practical strategies for building a workforce that’s ready for today’s challenges and prepared for tomorrow’s leadership needs. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Amber Trail, Managing HR Consultant

We’re raising our glasses for a double celebration! Not only is this our 50th episode of HR & Cocktails, but we’re also toasting one of our favorite guests, Cheryl Brown, on her exciting new role.  In this milestone episode, we dive into the real dangers of toxic work environments—where the cost goes far beyond low morale. From lost productivity and high turnover to compliance violations and legal exposure, we break down the ways a harmful culture can damage both your people and your bottom line. We also share practical strategies to spot issues early, address them effectively, and build a workplace where employees can thrive. We discussed these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails Guest: Cheryl Brown, attorney at Davis, Rapaport &  Skalny

In this episode, we dive into the wild side of the workplace! Have you ever wanted to hear the craziest stories from behind the scenes—unbelievable employee terminations, unhinged manager meltdowns, and workplace drama you truly couldn't make up? We’re sharing some of the most outrageous real-life HR moments that prove truth is stranger than fiction. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Amber Trail, Managing HR Consultant at Prescott HR

In this episode, we’re digging into the growing presence of artificial intelligence in today’s workplace—from automated hiring tools to productivity monitoring But with innovation comes complexity.We’ll explore the real benefits AI offers for HR and business operations, like efficiency, data insights, and scalability—but also the legal, ethical, and cultural risks that can’t be ignored. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails!Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HRGuest: Cheryl Brown, Attorney at Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny

In this episode, we discuss the real-world challenge of balancing employee wellness with organizational performance. As demands on teams grow, so does the need to prioritize mental health, burnout prevention, and sustainable productivity. But how do you support your workforce without compromising business goals? We explore practical strategies to integrate well-being into your culture in a way that drives retention, engagement, and results. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails!Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HRGuest: Amber Trail, Managing HR Consultant- Prescott HR

In this episode, we discuss how to navigate political conversations in the workplace. They explore ways to create a safe space for employees, foster respectful dialogue, and maintain a culture of inclusivity—especially during politically charged times. Whether you're in HR or leading an organization, this conversation offers practical tips for keeping things civil while encouraging open, thoughtful communication. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails!Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HRGuest: Cheryl Brown, Attorney at Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny

In this episode, we discuss what does employee engagement really mean and how can employers make it happen? We break down what engagement is, why it matters, and how to implement initiatives that actually work. From leadership involvement to recognition programs, we’ll explore strategies to build a motivated workforce. Plus, we’ll discuss how to measure engagement effectively using surveys, feedback, and key performance indicators. Grab a drink and join us for a conversation on creating a thriving workplace! We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Hosted by Kimberly Prescott, Founder and President of Prescott HR Guest: Amber Trail, Managing Consultant, Prescott HR

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of managing cannabis in the workplace. From understanding state and federal laws to revising drug testing policies, we'll explore best practices for balancing employee rights with organizational needs. Our guest will share insights on addressing impairment concerns, accommodating medical cannabis use, and crafting clear workplace policies that reflect the changing legal landscape. As legal adult-use cannabis becomes more prevalent, employers face new challenges in maintaining compliance, safety, and a productive workplace culture. We discuss these topics…and of course, we talk about cocktails! Guest: Andrew Griffin, Partner at Providence Strategies LLC Hosted by Kimberly Prescott of Prescott HR