Advertise on podcast: HR Fresh Take

Season 5 of HR Fresh Take starts here! Dr. Jo welcomes Alexandra Dailerian, VP of Impact & Inclusion at Comcast and a board member of the Pennsylvania Conference for Women, and Alyssa Schaber, Senior Manager on Comcast's Impact & Inclusion team. Together they take a fresh look at how culture gets built inside organizations. Alexandra and Alyssa walk through Comcast's Team Up program and its three pillars: Serve, Give, and Grow. They also explain how a strong HR partnership model turns volunteerism into part of the company's DNA. We'll also preview the 2026 Pennsylvania Conference for Women, held Thursday, November 5, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Philly SHRM is a community partner of this event where over 9000 women will receive a year's worth of fresh perspectives, practical ideas, meaningful connections, and lasting momentum. A return that extends far beyond one day. You can follow the Pennsylvania Conference for Women on LinkedIn and on Instagram at @conferencesforwomen and @pennwomen Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

What does "modern HR" actually mean once you strip away the buzzwords? In this final installment of The Future of HR Beyond Tech, host Dr. Jo gathers five HR leaders on the ground at the Philadelphia SHRM Symposium for a candid roundtable on what it really takes to lead people well right now. The conversation moves from AI and automation to something more fundamental: relationship building, empathy, and psychological safety. The panel digs into why HR has to trade administrative, reactive habits for strategic, proactive ones — connecting people metrics to business outcomes leaders actually care about (think retention, ramp time, and hiring velocity, not just cost-per-hire). They talk candidly about the profession's current uncertainty and attrition, what to look for when bringing new talent into HR, and why the best HR departments are built by people who are, above all, humans first. Plus, don't miss the closing lightning round, where the panel reveals what they'd be doing in another universe — from running a Cajun restaurant to chasing volcanoes. Guests: Melissa Atkins — Founder, Philly HR Group (HR consulting & employment law)Dr. Kayla LaBarge — Senior Consultant, Equilibria Leadership ConsultingKaela Blanks — JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion) Practitioner and Inclusive Culture StrategistStephanie Manzelli — Chief People Officer, EmployincErica Kaufman — President, Evolve Leader KineticsBusiness, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

Data informs. People transform. That's the future of HR. In Part 3 of HR Fresh Take’s special series, The Future of HR: Beyond Tech, recorded live at the 2026 Philly SHRM Symposium, host Dr. Jo continues the conversation with her guests,  Samantha Bussard, Chief Talent Officer at Compass Business Solutions, Kristi Straw, Founder of Lighthouse Leadership Consultants, and Jennifer McSherry, Senior Vice President and Client Advisor with Lockton Companies, to explore how HR is changing in a rapidly evolving workplace.  From AI and data to trust, empathy, and experiential leadership, we discuss people-centered leadership, business impact, data-informed decisions, and the power skills HR professionals need to create workplaces where people can thrive. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

AI may be the buzzword, but people are still the heartbeat of work. In Part 2 of HR Fresh Take’s special series, The Future of HR: Beyond Tech, recorded live at the Philly SHRM Symposium, host Dr. Jo Vazquez continues the conversation on what modern HR requires in a workplace evolving at rapid speed. This episode looks beyond technology to examine how HR professionals can lead with strategy, empathy, courage, and a people-first mindset. Dr. Jo is joined by Gregory Offner, keynote speaker and author of The Tip Jar Culture; Dr. Anna Thomas, founder of Workplaces That Care; Christopher Reidenauer, CEO of Inspired 2 Results; and Catherine Priem, Senior HR business partner at Baker Tilly and past president of Philly SHRM. Together, they discuss the role of HR in balancing productivity with humanity, using AI responsibly, supporting employee wellbeing, strengthening workplace culture, and helping people grow through meaningful work. Listeners will hear practical perspectives on why modern HR is not defined by tools alone, but by the ability to build trust, steward culture, create space for connection, and advocate for the people who power every organization. Whether you are navigating change, exploring AI adoption, or looking for ways to make your workplace more human-centered, this conversation offers timely insights for HR leaders across the Philadelphia region and beyond. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

Human resources is no longer just a support function. It is a strategic driver of organizational success. Today's HR leaders are expected to deliver results that balance people, performance, and broader business outcomes. In this special multi-part series, The Future of HR - Beyond Tech, recorded live at the 2026 Philly SHRM Symposium, we'll explore what it really means to practice modern HR in a workplace that's evolving faster than ever. Looking beyond AI and technology, the series offers a candid discussion of how HR professionals can expand their influence, lead with both strategy and humanity, and keep people at the center of every decision. In this first installment of the series, we'll talk with Corey Crapella, owner and Principal Consultant of Core Coaching and Consulting, and Melissa Sherry, owner and Principal Consultant of Workswell Consulting.  We'll discuss people-centered leadership, thoughtful technology adoption, authenticity, and the evolving role of HR as a bridge between employees and business strategy. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

Menopause and perimenopause are one of the most overlooked workplace issues. What employees are experiencing often gets misread as performance issues, poor attendance, or “burnout,”.  For this episode, we’re taking a bit of a detour from our usual format  to bring you a conversation from the Take a Pause with MenoPalz Podcast for which I was honored to be a guest. We’ll discuss how symptoms can affect the mid-career professional and how HR can lead with confidence, credibility, and care. We'll also talk about how to equip managers to have respectful conversations, build accommodation readiness, and create a culture where employees don’t have to suffer in silence.  Thank you to MenoPalz founders, Deborah McCarthy and Raquel Riggle, and Mare Krammes, as well as fellow PA SHRM State Council colleague, Angela Hummel for being a part of this joint podcast.  Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

Think the Federal Reserve only deals with interest rates? Think again.   In this episode, we sit down with experts from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia to reveal little‑known but powerful tools designed to support workforce and economic mobility. Deborah Diamond and Theresa Dunne break down two resources that can help HR professionals rethink talent pipelines, skills‑based hiring, and local economic impact. Discover how "Eds & Meds" shape Philadelphia’s workforce and why understanding your region’s economic ecosystem is critical for strategic HR planning. A must‑listen for HR and business leaders seeking data‑driven insight. To learn more about the tools discussed, visit: PhiladelphiaFed.org/OME PhiladelphiaFed.org/AnchorEconomy More about our guests: Deborah Diamond As the senior director of engagement and initiatives, Deborah and her team develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders in the Third District to better understand how economic conditions affect residents, workers, and small businesses. She also focuses on the “anchor economy” locally and nationally to understand how universities and hospitals shape local economic opportunity. Theresa Dunne Theresa Dunne is a community development research analyst in the Community Development and Regional Outreach Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. Her research interests lie at the intersection of community development and public health. Currently, she works on topics related to digital equity and device access, equitable wealth in the city of Philadelphia, and the broad economic impacts of anchor institutions on regional economies. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In this courageous and eye-opening episode of HR Fresh Take, host Dr. Jo sits down with survivor, advocate, and author Dr. Jennifer Gardella to explore how domestic violence—often considered a private issue—profoundly impacts the workplace. From emotional trauma to legal and financial barriers, Dr. Gardella shares her personal journey and offers actionable insights for HR professionals and organizational leaders. Listeners will learn: The hidden costs of domestic violence on employee well-being and productivityThe importance of psychologically safe environments and trauma-informed policiesWhat coworkers and leaders can say (and avoid saying) to support survivorsHow organizations can partner with local resources and offer meaningful accommodations This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to building compassionate, inclusive, and resilient workplaces.  Trigger warning: This episode contains sensitive content related to domestic violence. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to your local domestic violence center or call the National Domestic violence hotline at 800-799-SAFE.  Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

We’re kicking off our 4th season by talking about neurodiversity in the workplace—what it means, why it matters, and how HR leaders can foster truly inclusive environments.  Joining the discussion are Laura Sibbald McAnulty, Executive Director of the Neurodiversity Employment Network (NENPHL); Joseph Riddle, Director of Neurodiversity in the Workplace (NITW), and Alberta Blum, Lead Executive Talent Partner for Radian. We’ll discuss hiring, team dynamics, accommodations, and the power of universal design as well as how small shifts in culture and communication can benefit everyone. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In our final installment of our series, HR and Age of AI Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests examine the dual impact of AI on mental health. Highlighting both the benefits and challenges it presents.  We also discussed building cultures of care and the role of AI as a tool to enhance workplace practices. Special Thanks to our Contributors: Scott J Prendergast is a Professional Speaker, Certified Coach, Author, College Professor and Mental Health Advocate based in Philadelphia, PA and owner of Scotty P Inspiration LLC. A graduate of Temple University, Scott speaks about the importance of acknowledging mental health in society, and encourages techniques to overcome the everyday mental obstacles that hold us back in life.  Danny Goldberg is a Workplace Culture Expert, acclaimed speaker, and award-winning entrepreneur who helps organizations navigate today’s most urgent workplace challenges. With a focus on building future-proof teams that are resilient, adaptable, and free from burnout, Danny empowers leaders to create cultures of engagement, innovation, and connection. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In the penultimate episode of our series, HR and the Age of AI: Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests discuss the importance of curiosity and adaptability in navigating AI technology.   We also highlight the protection of sensitive data as well as the role of organizational culture in fostering a safe environment for experimentation and growth. Special Thanks to our Contributors Kelly Jones is the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. For over 25 years, Kelly Jones has held several progressive and strategic human resource and operations assignments. His career has spanned several industries, including financial services, aerospace and hospitality. Cherise V. Stewart MS, SPHR  is a Human Resource Leader with over 15 years of experience designing and implementing people-centered strategies that drive employee engagement and retention initiatives. As VP of Human Resources at Valley Youth House, Cherise leads the HR, Training, and Development function for 400 plus employees who work everyday as a catalyst for youth to achieve their desired futures through genuine relationships that support families, ensure safe places, and build community connections. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In part 4 of our series, HR and Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their perspectives on how AI is transforming HR practices from improving the employee experience to enhancing recruitment processes.  We also discussed the importance of maintaining empathy and humanity in HR especially as AI technology advances, as well as the need for adaptability and agility among HR professionals. Special Thanks to our Contributors: Gaetan Giannini - Vice President for Adult and Graduate Education at Alvernia University. Dana Scarcella is a leadership consultant with more than 20 years experience, specializing in creating high performance cultures. Dana is on a mission to help people achieve their impossible goals and help leaders get extraordinary results. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In part 3 of our series: HR in the Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their diverse perspectives on skills, tools, and relationships HR professionals need to effectively manage and lead in the age of AI.  The conversation also touches upon overcoming the fear of AI with practical advice on low-risk initiatives and personal experimentation. Special thanks to our contributors: Blair Corcoran de Castillo - As Opportunity@Work’s Vice President of Policy, Blair leads the organization’s partnerships with the public sector, guiding the strategy to support policy shifts to enable STAR mobility nationally and in regions across the U.S. Shane Lloyd - As the Chief Diversity Officer at Baker Tilly, Shane leads the firmwide diversity, inclusion, and belonging strategy and advises executive leadership at Baker Tilly. Prior to joining the top 10 professional services firm based in the United States, he worked at Amazon within their Worldwide Consumer and Global DEI teams. Audrey Mickahail - is Senior Vice President, Private Sector & Membership Experience, at Opportunity@Work. In this role, she is responsible for the organization’s Private Sector business as well as the team that ensures a high quality and consistent customer experience with Opportuniy@Work through its service offerings to help employers, philanthropies, regional consortia, and the public sector enable economic mobility for workers who are Skilled through Alternative Routes (STARs). Celeste Warren - is Vice President, Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence. As the leader for Merck’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, she is responsible for working with Merck’s global leaders to advance and embed diversity and inclusion throughout the organization to enhance the employee experience and maximize business performance.  Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

In Part 2 of our series, HR and the Age of AI:  Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their unique perspectives on how AI is transforming HR practices from creating culture to enhancing neurodiversity inclusion.  We also discussed the need for critical thinking and human oversight in AI applications, as well as the legal implications and ethical considerations. Special thanks to our contributors: Michael S. Cohen Partner, Duane Morris’ Employment, Labor, Benefits and Immigration Practice Group. Michael concentrates his practice in the areas of employment law training and counseling. Kevin Davis -  Principal, Epic Insurance Brokers and Consultants.  His focus is on crafting innovative benefits strategies for his diverse clients. He is also a Board member of the Neurodiversity Employment Network (NEN). Catherine Preim, Senior Business Partner, Baker Tilly US, a leading advisory CPA firm.  She serves as a leader within the Talent Management Business Partner team; she partners with leadership in the Pennsylvania/West Virginia market in the development and execution of their people strategy and advises on various people-related matters Merrick Rosenberg, CEO, Take Flight Learning, affectionately known as The Bird Guy, is not just an author, keynote speaker, and entrepreneur. He is a true visionary! In 1991, he founded Team Builders Plus, one of the first companies in the United States. His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for today’s team building industry. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org

Discussing the benefits and challenges of AI can help reduce anxiety around its integration and use. When HR professionals understand the advantages and limitations of AI, they can develop a balanced perspective and in turn, foster collaboration and proactive planning, ensuring that AI is integrated responsibly and ethically. In this special multi-part series: HR in the Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, recorded during the 2025 Philly SHRM Symposium, we got the perspectives from nationally and locally recognized speakers from different industries on the issue of AI and HR. We asked our guests on what HR professionals may need to tackle this technology that has already revolutionized the workplace.  First up, we'll talk with bestselling author, CEO and our keynote speaker, Charlene Li. She shares her insights on navigating leadership in the age of AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, curiosity, and imagination. More about Charlene... Charlene is a Bestselling Author, CEO, Harvard Alumnus and Expert in Disruption, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work. After earning an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and an A.B. degree magna cum laude from Harvard College, Charlene has spent the past three decades helping people see the future and thrive through disruption. She has advised executives and boards to recognize the vital truth that companies can’t simply innovate in order to stay competitive. They must transform. As a sought-after expert on disruptive transformation, leadership, customer experience, and the future of work, Charlene has worked with hundreds of organizations—ranging from Adobe to Southwest Airlines and 14 of the Dow Jones Industrial 30 companies—to provide her insights to support a winning strategy for disruptive growth and a plan to identify and seize an opportunity no one else has the audacity or confidence to reach for. Business, Engagement, Human Resources, Management, Thought Leadership, Return to work, Inclusion, Hybrid work, AI, phillyshrm.org