Unmuted

Does HR Need More Outsiders?

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:37:09 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #84
Topic: Does HR Need More Outsiders?
Guest: Kara Wilson Oliver - VP, People Operations at DealMaker
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karawilsonoliver/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

The Unmuted Podcast, hosted by Jeff Waldman, explores the topic of whether HR needs more outsiders. Kara Wilson Oliver, the guest, shares her background and transition to HR, emphasizing the application of a product mindset to the people function. The conversation also delves into the benefits of bringing outsiders into HR, the potential for HR leaders to transition to broader roles, and the transformative power of AI in HR.

Takeaways

Application of a product mindset to HR
Benefits of bringing outsiders into HR

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Unmuted Podcast
01:13 Episode 84: Does HR Need More Outsiders?
03:23 Kara's Background and Transition to HR
14:28 Applying Product Mindset to People Function
23:11 Bringing Outsiders into HR
27:27 HR Leaders Transitioning to Broader Roles
32:40 The Power of AI in HR

About Kara Wilson Oliver

Kara is a People executive with 25 years in Toronto’s startup ecosystem and an unusual career path: 15 years building products before realizing that organizations are really just the most complicated product of all. She brings a product mindset to culture, leadership, organizational design and AI adoption - building practical People systems that help ambitious companies scale.

Connec with Kara on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/karawilsonoliver/

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), helping emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech companies accelerate brand awareness and lead generation through Catalyst, our community-driven content and omnichannel marketing solution.

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #Recruiting #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #HR #FutureOfWork #Leadership #HRTech #Business #Careers #AI

Stop Filling Jobs. Start Solving Business Problems.

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 15:50:57 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #83
Topic: Stop Filling Jobs. Start Solving Business Problems.
Guest: Mike Bettley – VP, Talent Acquisition, StackAdapt
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbettley/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

The Unmuted Podcast episode features a discussion on the changing role of talent acquisition and the impact of AI on workforce planning. The conversation emphasizes the need for talent leaders to understand business problems and build stronger partnerships with other functions. It also explores the future of talent acquisition in the context of AI and automation.

Takeaways

Talent acquisition is evolving to focus on solving business problems, not just filling jobs.
The successful TA leader of the future will leverage AI and automation to create space for high-value, human-centric work.

Chapters

00:00 Introducing the Unmuted Podcast
03:11 The Role of Talent Acquisition is Changing
04:11 The Best Solution Isn't Always Just Another Hire
09:26 Building Stronger Partnerships with Other Functions
26:56 The Future of Talent Acquisition and AI

About Mike Bettley

Mike has spent almost 15 years in Talent Acquisition, guiding companies growth across all stages and maturity levels. From the early days in an agency in the UK, a few years in Dublin at Google, before jumping across to Canada and building a few series A-C companies, pioneering sourcing at Thomson Reuters. Now, as VP of Talent Acquisition at StackAdapt one of Canada’s fastest growing companies, Mike leads a 25 person TA team driving over 600 hires per year for this highly competitive AI powered marketing and advertising technology company.

🔗 Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbettley/

About ScaleHR

The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), helping emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech companies accelerate brand awareness and lead generation through Catalyst, our community-driven content and omnichannel marketing solution.

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #Recruiting #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #HR #FutureOfWork #Leadership #HRTech #RemoteWork #AI

HR Tech 2023 is Around the Corner

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:47:09 -0000

This is our first re-launched episode of the Unmuted Podcast with Jeff Waldman, Founder & Principal of ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/). The guests on this episode are Adam Phelps of Hibob (https://www.hibob.com/) and Alper Tekin of (https://www.findem.ai/).

The topic of this episode is "HR Tech is Around the Corner". The infamous HR Technology Conference (https://www.hrtechnologyconference.com/) is taking place on October 10-12, 2023, in Las Vegas, and both Hibob and Findem will be attending, speaking and exhibiting.

HR and Recruitment technology has seen a massive explosion during the past 3+ years that has largely been fueled by the shift in how, when, and where work. This refers to remote work, hybrid work, and everything in between, with our reliance on work technology skyrocketing.

In this episode, we get into a conversation about what has changed in HR tech during the past few years and how both Hibob and Findem have adapted and played lead roles in their respective categories. We also get into high-level overviews of each platform, specifically about their newest features and points of differentiation. We then segway into the future of HR tech and close the episode with a discussion about the upcoming HR Technology Conference in October.

New Unmuted Podcast Episodes:
New episodes will be dropped on a weekly basis and will cover a wide range of topics about HR, Talent and HR Tech. Episode guests will be HR and Talent leaders and practitioners working in the tech industry, and HR Tech vendors, analysts, influencers, and thought leaders. Our main goals in relaunching Unmuted are to provide education, inspiration, and some entertainment value. Be sure to subscribe to our channel, share your thoughts in the comments section of our videos, and of course, hit that big "like" button.

Unmasking Ghosting: Tackling the 'Tinderification' of Hiring

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:45:43 -0000

In this episode, Jeff Waldman dives into the rampant problem of "ghosting" -- employers ghosting candidates and candidates ghosting employers. We are dealing with an incredibly complicated and challenging talent landscape. We're experiencing layoffs, restructuring, fierce competition for talent, exploding technology, and a really tough economic climate. How we think about attracting, recruiting, engaging and retaining talent has changed significantly, and how we run our organizations has changed. While the virtual and remote work world has generated huge value for organizations, it has created many difficult problems.

In this episode with guest, John Fleischauer, CEO of Pivot + Edge (https://www.pivotandedge.com/), we get into the nitty gritty of what ghosting really means, and what John means by the 'Tinderification of hiring'. Further, how do we solve the problem of ghosting, or, can we actually solve it? There are huge ramifications when employers and candidates engage in ghosting, and some are more important than others.

John brings his candid approach and awesome sense of humour to the table as he unwraps the complicated problem of ghosting and game-playing in hiring. His company even published a recent blog post on this very topic that you should all read - https://www.pivotandedge.com/our-blog/why-ghosting-happens-in-hiring/.

John's company, Pivot + Edge is a strategic partner of ScaleHR's. They think like us, operate like us, and live a little bit on the edge, just like us. They offer a really unique and fresh approach to recruiting at small to medium-sized companies. Curious? You should be. Want an introduction? It's one of the things we do really well; connect people with people. Ping us.

Ontario’s New Licensing Rules: Deep Dive for Recruiters

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:44:09 -0000

This is a unique episode that dives into Ontario's new legislation requiring recruitment firms to be licensed as of January 1, 2024. These changes will be found in Ontario's Employment Standards Act (ESA), which governs the employer-employee relationship for all provincially regulated organizations - e.g. tech companies. It appears that the main reason for implementing these new regulations is to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable foreign workers by some job recruiters. While tackling this huge problem of exploitation is applauded, the application of these new regulations was not well thought out. These changes will apply to every single recruitment agency and staffing agency that does business in the province of Ontario.

For more information about the new legislation please go to https://www.ontario.ca/page/licensing-temporary-help-agencies-and-recruiters.

This new law is generating a lot of concern in the recruitment community, notably smaller third-party recruitment agencies. The legislation is meant to tackle the exploitation problem of temporary staffing agencies that take on employee payroll of temp workers. The legislation lists several requirements, some of which are financially based. The financial requirements are causing a significant amount of backlash, and may even result in many smaller recruitment agencies going out of business.

Jeff meets with Suky Sodhi and Jessica Smith, both recruitment agency founders and operators. They are playing a lead role in sounding the alarm bell to these new legislative changes and have undertaken many activities to make a positive impact.

A petition on change.org was created and can be accessed at https://www.change.org/p/change-ontario-s-new-recruiter-law-license-policy. A new Facebook was created for concerned individuals to come together and share information - https://www.facebook.com/groups/eliteglobalrecruiters. Finally, a LinkedIn group was created called "Recruiters for Fair Licensing" - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14289791/. If you are concerned about this new legislation in Ontario, please take the time to engage and interact with one, or all, of the online platforms.

@CTVNews covered this story and you can watch the clip at https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=2770762.

You can find more information about Suky Sodhi at https://professionalselection.com/, and Jessica Smith at https://savantrecruitment.ca/.

Helping Your Business and Your Employees Recover After a Layoff

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:42:50 -0000

In this episode, we dive into how businesses can manage through and recover from a layoff. We have seen more companies go through multiple rounds of layoffs, restructuring, right-sizing, and many other disruptive activities. The volatility in our global business climate has been extremely taxing on companies, notably small businesses.

It's interesting that while the tech industry in Canada continues to grow, many tech organizations have reduced the size of their organizations. An interesting fact is that we have more vacant job openings today than we did pre-pandemic, yet layoffs continue to plague companies. Regardless of the statistics, layoffs are extremely disruptive to organizations on many fronts, and this is what this podcast episode is all about.

Unmuted podcast host, Jeff Waldman, speaks with Amy Davies, CEO of First30 (https://first30ready.com/), a growing Toronto-based company that focuses on outplacement, onboarding and various other critical areas that impact organizational success.

New Unmuted Podcast Episodes:
New episodes will be dropped on a weekly basis and will cover a wide range of topics about HR, Talent and HR Tech. Episode guests will be HR and Talent leaders and practitioners working in the tech industry, and HR Tech vendors, analysts, influencers, and thought leaders. Our main goals in relaunching Unmuted are to provide education, inspiration, and some entertainment value. Be sure to subscribe to our channel, share your thoughts in the comments section of our videos, and of course, hit that big "like" button.

First30 - Strategies for Running Compassionate & Effective Layoffs Guide. To download this invaluable guide, go to https://bit.ly/3RxdWmF.

AI-Powered Recruitment: Leveraging ChatGPT for Talent Acquisition

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:41:15 -0000

In this episode, ScaleHR Founder and Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, dives into the world of ChatGPT and how to leverage it for Talent Acquisition and Recruiting. Guest, Shweta Jacob, Founder of SJ Growth Advisors is a tech recruiting veteran and expert in all things AI and recruiting.

We are seeing massive adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in recruiting and this trend will only continue as we head into 2024. ChatGPT already has over 1 billion users, and this platform has been hugely influential in the increasing rate of adoption of AI tools in recruiting and HR. The use cases within HR are infinite and we are just touching the surface of what AI can do to help HR and Recruitment realize huge and unprecedented value.

In this episode, we talk about the following:

What is ChatGPT and why should recruiters care about it?
How is AI, specifically ChatGPT, being utilized in recruiting today?
What success stories can we find in the industry regarding how ChatGPT has significantly improved recruiting?
What are common misconceptions or concerns that businesses might have when considering the adoption of AI in recruiting, and how have they been addressed?
What does the future look like regarding AI in recruiting? Will ChatGPT continue its leadership role as the industry evolves?
What can HR practitioners and recruiters do to start using AI (i.e. ChatGPT) in recruiting?

About Shweta Jacob
Shweta is a Toronto-based recruiting expert and is the Founder of SJ Growth Advisors (https://sjgrowthadvisors.com/). Shweta Jacob has spent the majority of her career in the People space. From 8 years of agency recruiting to in-house HRBP and most recently 10 years scaling StartUPs in both Canada & the US. This has included recruitment, training and leadership coaching at companies such as Chango, Flipp and Lever. Shweta has moderated and participated in numerous panels on the topics of DEIB in the workplace, Starting an ERG and candidate experience to name a few.

Turning Words into Action: Advancing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:39:23 -0000

In this episode, Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, invites Dr. Kristen Liesch to talk about how organizations can move past "talking about DE&I" to moving to action. Real action with a lasting positive impact that makes a difference. According to Deloitte, nearly 70% of employees reported that their organization prioritizes DEI but only 35% reported that their company has substantially followed through on their commitments. This episode is a must-watch to learn how to easily make this shift from words to action.

The following areas are discussed:

How can leaders and organizations start to make this shift from “words to actions”. Where can they start?

Is there a way to ensure new efforts last and are sustainable? Another way of putting this is, “Is it about programs and activities, or is it about mindset and how you operate”?

Are there any case studies or personal experiences you can share that illustrate the journey from talk to action in the realm of DEI?

Tidal Equality created the “Equity Sequence”. What is it and how does it help organizations move from words to actions?

What is unconscious bias and can you eliminate it?

About Dr. Kristen Liesch
Dr. Kristen Liesch is co-CEO and co-founder of Tidal Equality (https://www.tidalequality.com/). Named a Forbes Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer, Kristen is a strategist and educator with 15 + years of experience designing transformative curricula, implementing equitable process changes, and capacity-building programs to support the design of more equitable organizations in Canada, the U.S., Europe, and New Zealand.

Inclusive Leadership for a Remote Work World: Navigating Challenges

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:37:56 -0000

In this episode, Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, invites Gabby Zuniga to talk about inclusive leadership and how to implement it in a new work world; remote work, hybrid work structures and leveraging virtual technologies.

The following areas are discussed:

What is the definition of inclusive leadership and why is it important in today’s business environment?

Are there specific qualities, characteristics or behaviours of an inclusive leader? If yes, what are they?

Now that we operate in a virtual environment, what has changed regarding inclusive leadership?

In your opinion, are there any myths or misconceptions about inclusive leadership that need to be squashed?

Do you have any examples of organizations that have successfully implemented inclusive leadership practices? What were the key noticeable outcomes?

How can organizations start incorporating inclusive leadership practices?
Are there any resources or tools that you can recommend for leaders who want to learn more about inclusive leadership and best practices?

About Gabby Zuniga
As the founder of Inclusive Kind Inc (https://inclusivekind.com/), Gabby's focus is developing diverse and inclusive workplaces with practical action plans that get results. Most recently, she was the Diversity and Inclusiveness Leader at EY Canada, leading the development, execution and implementation of the DEI strategy. She is currently an adjunct professor at Queen's University and is developing an online undergrad course on DEI in the workplace, which launches in 2021.

Bridging the Gap: Disability Advocacy & Activism & Its Importance to HR

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:37:08 -0000

In this episode, Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, gets into a conversation with well-renowned motivational speaker and accessibility consultant, Marco Pasqua, about disability advocacy and activism and why it's important to HR. It's a well-known fact that, while diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) efforts have increased in organizations, only 4% of them include people with disabilities. While this needs to change, it's also an excellent opportunity for businesses to play a lead role in this change.

The following areas are discussed:

The notion of "activism" versus "advocacy within the context of people with disabilities is an interesting one. What do activism and advocacy mean, and what are their differences? Why should HR care?

Are there solid examples of advocacy efforts and how they made a positive impact in the workplace?

We know that diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in organizations do not typically take into account people with disabilities. How can HR play a role in boosting inclusion through advocacy and activism? Where do they start?

How can HR professionals provide employees with disabilities the tools, resources or support to help them engage in advocacy or activism efforts?

Does our virtual and hybrid work environment change anything? If so, what are those changes and how can we solve them?

About Marco Pasqua
Marco Pasqua is an award-winning Entrepreneur, Accessibility Consultant and Inspirational Speaker with Cerebral Palsy. Throughout his life, Marco has been involved with a number of organizations as a spokesperson, helping to spread advocacy for persons with disabilities across Canada.

Advocating for universal design and inclusion is among his passions. He is a designated Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) Professional and has consulted with municipalities & business leaders on creating universally designed spaces and inclusive employment strategies for people with disabilities, including the Province of BC's employment advisory committee the Presidents Group.

He has worked with some of North America's biggest change-driven leaders who are champions for more accessible, inclusive communities and workplaces. It's through these experiences that he is helping to pave the way for all members of society to have universal access to the programs, services and places where they live, work, play and learn.

Taking a Breath: Why Slowing Down Matters in DE&I

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:35:22 -0000

In this Unmuted podcast episode, host Jeff Waldman meets with Dr. Dominique Riviere, an expert in equity and social justice, in both the academic and professional arenas. In this episode, the focus of the conversation is on the concept of "slowing your roll" when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I). In a world of constant and rapid change, many people think moving faster is always better, but that is not always true. This is particularly the case when dealing with DE&I.

The following areas are discussed:

What does “slow your roll” mean? What does this mean in the context of DE&I?

In our world today, why do organizations and people often rush DE&I efforts, and what are the potential consequences?

How can we strike a balance between the urgency to address DE&I issues and the need to take a more measured, thoughtful approach?

Are there any suggestions of key indicators or signs that may suggest it’s time to “slow your roll”?

Are there any suggestions for organizations to take a more calculated, strategic and slower approach?

Are there any examples from organizations of the long-term benefits of organizations slowing their roll?

About Dr. Dominique Riviere:
Dr. Dominique Riviere earned her Ph.D. from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, at the University of Toronto. Since then, she has held positions in research, policy analysis, and business operations across multiple sectors, including post-secondary education and technology/innovation.

Her academic training in ethnography and narrative inquiry also helped to show her the importance of stories, and how they can be used to create injustice and to repair it.

As such, in 2020, Dr. Riviere created Fictive Kin Equity Lab (https://fictivekinlab.ca/), a learning and development consultancy that takes a narrative-based approach to supporting the work of equity professionals and other advocates

Dr. Riviere is also an unapologetic romance junkie, an unabashed chocoholic, a ballet dancer, a mother to the world’s most energetic 5-year-old, and wholly determined to someday live in a country where winter does not exist.

Top of Mind: HR in Tech Interview with Josh Siegal at Tech Talent North Toronto

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:34:04 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff had the privilege of sitting down with prominent HR leaders in the Canadian technology industry to talk about their perspectives, strategies and forward-thinking initiatives that are shaping the future of HR in the tech industry.

Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Joshua Siegal:
Josh is currently the Vice President of People at 7shifts. 7shifts is a leader in the restaurant management software space and recently was selected as the #1 Workplace in Canada. At 7shifts, Josh leads all things around talent acquisition, learning and development, HR and driving mission and values. Prior to 7shifts, Josh has had a breadth of experience in both the private, NFP, and academic fields, even teaching organizational behaviour and marketing at multiple Universities. In addition to his day job, Josh has been training non-stop as one of ten participants in the Fight to End Cancer. Culminating with a sanctioned boxing match, these white-collar professionals are putting their faces on the line as part of a bigger fight, the fight to end cancer in our lifetime. Check out Josh on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuasiegal/.

The Evolution of the HR Leader w/ Erin Ashton at Tech Talent North Toronto

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:33:12 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff had the privilege of sitting down with prominent HR leaders in the Canadian technology industry to talk about their perspectives, strategies and forward-thinking initiatives that are shaping the future of HR in the tech industry.

Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Erin Ashton:
Erin is currently the Director, Learning & Engagement at Resolver. She has spent the majority of her career in the tech industry with organizations including EventMobi, MaRS Discovery District, Scotiabank Technology, and more.

Resolver is a Toronto-based tech company that gathers all risk data and analyzes it in context—revealing the true business impact within every risk. Resolver’s Risk Intelligence Platform traces the extended impact of all types of risk—whether compliance or audit, incidents, or threats—and translates those effects into quantifiable business metrics. So, customers can communicate risk persuasively, framing it in terms of the business. And with this changed perspective, comes an entirely new role for risk to play. Finally, risk goes from being seen as a barrier, to becoming a strategic partner driving the business. Welcome to the new world of Risk Intelligence. Check out Erin on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ecashton/.

Leaning on HR for Stability & Guidance with Raquel Binder at Tech Talent North Toronto

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:32:14 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff had the privilege of sitting down with Raquel Binder, Talent Management Leader at Jobber (www.getjobber.com) where we talked about the notion that our organizations are leaning on HR teams for stability and guidance. The world has been turned upside down several times over the past 3+ years since the COVID-19 global health pandemic started in March 2020.

This episode is one of several that we recorded. Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, and HR Tech influencers share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Raquel Binder:
Raquel is a Toronto-based Learning & Development leader with over 10 years of experience in creating innovative learning opportunities. Coming from a background in education, leadership, and program development, Raquel uses a creative approach to her mission to help develop, support, and retain great talent - aka, help awesome people keep being awesome. After working in the non-profit sector for 8 years in a variety of roles, Raquel made the leap into tech. She leads the Coaching & Development Team at Jobber, one of Canada’s Top 10 Great Places to Work and a Deloitte Fast 15 winner. She is proud and grateful that every day she gets to listen to people’s stories and help set them up for successful careers. Outside of work, you can find Raquel cooking up a storm, working out, or planning her next trip.

Check out Raquel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/raquel-binder/.

HR is Burned Out. What Should We Do?

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:25:08 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff sat down with Amy Tailby, Senior Leader, Total Rewards where we talked about how HR in Tech is burned out, and what we need to do to change this. In March 2020, the COVID-19 global health pandemic hit our shores and our organizations shifted and changed overnight. Leaders turned to HR to lead the way through this unprecedented time. Not only was HR at "the table", but they were also "leading it". Not only were we seeing an explosion in employee burnout, exhaustion and mental health challenges, but the same things were happening to HR. We are now more than 3 years removed from the start of the pandemic and we are seeing this burnout trend reversing. It came without its consequences, and we need to take a pause and learn from this experience. Watch the full episode as Amy talks about what we need to do to reverse this trend.

This episode is one of several that we recorded. Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, and HR Tech influencers share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Amy Tailby
Amy is a strong senior leader with expertise in total rewards. She is highly knowledgeable in all aspects of compensation, benefits and global mobility, and she is passionate about developing employees. Amy helps companies grow and refine their Total Rewards programs to create strong attraction, engagement and retention. She has a unique focus on designing for organizational needs and partnering with HR colleagues to ensure a strong understanding and effective use of Total Rewards programs. She possesses a unique blend of systems thinking, people focus, change management capability, and relationship building creating a powerful connection to leaders, teams and employees, leading to strong solutions for achieving HR and organizational goals.

Connect with Amy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-tailby/.

Talent Shuffle Mayhem w/ Michelle Brooks at Tech Talent North Toronto

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:24:12 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff sat down with Michelle Brooks, Chief People & Culture Officer at Security Compass where we talked about the concept of the "talent shuffle mayhem". This refers to the mayhem that we experienced in 2022 with talent leaving organizations in droves, and finding new opportunities with other organizations. As 2023 came, this trend reversed where talent was staying put in their current organizations, largely due to financial instability and insecurity. Will we experience "talent mayhem" again as we head into a brand new year? Watch the episode to find out.

This episode is one of several that we recorded. Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, and HR Tech influencers share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Michelle Brooks
Michelle is currently the Chief People & Culture Office at Security Compass, a software security firm in Toronto. Michelle has experience working in a series of progressively senior leadership roles within industry-leading recruitment firms, before making the transition to human resources and corporate training in the tech and consulting sectors. Michelle has successfully helped multiple tech companies build for scale by building a strong employer brand and recruitment functions, developing lean people operations that drive the development of talent, and relentlessly focusing on a corporate culture that evolves with scale.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-brooks-1747b924/.

The Tech Consolidation Era with Emily Zukauskas at Tech Talent North Toronto

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:22:56 -0000

In this special episode, join Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman, as he takes you behind the scenes of the recent Tech Talent North Toronto conference (October 24, 2023), hosted by TAP Network. Jeff sat down with Emily Zukauskas, Sales Manager - Canada at Hibob where we talked about entering "The Tech Consolidation Era". HR and Recruitment technology has seen massive proliferation and development during the past 3-5 years, and most recently, Generative AI making its way into all areas of "work" tech. Emily is an expert in HR technology and has a very strong understanding of how HR technology can improve HR's ability to drive more value and business outcomes for organizations. As technology gets better, so does its ability to integrate. How can HR do more with less, through technology? Watch the episode to find out.

This episode is one of several that we recorded. Our guests, seasoned HR leaders and experts, and HR Tech influencers share their insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing talent in the fast-paced world of technology. From attracting top-notch tech talent to fostering inclusive workplace cultures, these conversations provide a rare glimpse into the minds of those at the forefront of HR innovation.

If you're curious about the future of work, the role of HR in shaping it, and how the tech industry is driving change, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of "HR in Tech" as we unpack the key insights and trends shared by the thought leaders who are actively shaping the future of talent management in the tech sector.

About Emily Zukauskas
Emily is the Sales Manager - Canada at the leading HRIS company, Hibob (https://www.hibob.com/. Connect with Emily on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyzukauskas/.

Cracking the Talented Jerk Code

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:21:34 -0000

In this episode, Unmuted Podcast host, Jeff Waldman switches roles with Savant Recruitment Founder & CEO, Jessica Smith. Jessica becomes the host of this podcast episode and Jeff is the guest as they dive into the complex challenges of how to deal with talented jerks at work.

Talented Jerks possess remarkable skills and abilities but often come packaged with challenging personalities and behaviours. We explore the intricacies of understanding and managing these individuals, aiming to decipher what makes them tick and how to navigate working with them effectively. In SMBs (small-mid-sized companies) employing talented jerks can be extremely detrimental to their success. In fact, they can sometimes destroy an organization - culture, workplace, product, sales, brand, leadership, engagement, retention, etc... Drawing from real-life experiences and expert insights, we provide practical insights into the world of talented jerks and what to do about it.

About Jessica Smith
Jessica is the Founder and CEO of Savant Recruitment. A next-gen boutique technology recruitment agency that is focused on changing the game on how we hire in the Technology Space. With over 11 years of experience hiring across the Software Development Lifecycle, Jessica has strategically partnered with CoderPad, ScaleHR, and Communitech, to take the nuisance of engineering hiring off her client's plates. She's not just filling roles, she's committed to solving serious technical problems that engineering teams are facing, while helping grow their company with numerous resources, no matter what the challenges are.

Uncovering Unseen Talent: Navigating Bias in Recruitment

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:19:48 -0000

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of recruitment bias, aiming to shed light on its definition, its various forms, and practical strategies to mitigate its impact in hiring processes.

Recruitment bias, as defined by our guest expert, refers to the unconscious preferences or prejudices that influence decision-making during the hiring process. These biases often lead to overlooking qualified candidates based on factors such as race, gender, age, or socio-economic background.

Throughout the discussion, we explore some common types of bias encountered by candidates, including:

Implicit Bias: Unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect judgments.
Affinity Bias: Favoring candidates who share similar backgrounds or interests.
Confirmation Bias: Seeking out information that confirms preconceived notions about a candidate.
Halo Effect: Allowing one positive trait to overshadow other aspects of a candidate's profile.

Recognizing that bias is a multifaceted challenge, we provide actionable steps to address it in hiring processes. Starting with raising awareness among hiring managers and implementing structured interview processes can help mitigate bias. Additionally, fostering diversity and inclusion within the organization's culture can lead to more equitable hiring decisions.

As technology plays an increasingly significant role in recruitment, we emphasize the need to be mindful of its potential to perpetuate bias. Algorithms and AI-driven tools must be regularly audited and calibrated to ensure fairness and transparency in decision-making.

If our viewers can take away just one key insight from this episode, it's the importance of actively combating bias in recruitment. By embracing diversity and implementing evidence-based practices, organizations can uncover untapped talent and create more inclusive workplaces.

About Dimitra Dimitropoulou
Dimitra is a Human Resources & Digital Marketing professional on a mission to help people grow! Her personal mantra is “I have what it takes to be successful,” and because success means different things to me at different times in my life. She continuously pushes herself out of her comfort zone to gain knowledge and experiences that will contribute to her success. This mantra combined with her background is why she is so passionate about helping others with their professional journey, whether that is in an HR or marketing capacity. Dimitra holds degrees in Business, Digital Marketing, Communications, Psychology, and Leadership from three of Canada's top universities, and has spent over 12 years working in various roles within Human Resources, Digital Marketing, Event Planning, Project Management, and Client Relations across companies of all sizes and industries. During this time, Dimitra has helped people and companies grow by implementing effective strategies and building genuine relationships which have led to greater customer satisfaction and increased revenue. In addition to my extensive experience within corporate and agency environments, she proudly offers specialized consultancy services in Marketing and Human Resources across a wide spectrum of topics to clients around the world.

Connect with Dimitra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddimitropoulou/ and on her website at https://www.dimitradimitropoulou.com/.

Scaling at Speed: Thriving in the Fast Lane of Organizational Growth

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:17:03 -0000

In this episode, we delve into the dynamic world of organizational growth, where the distinction between high growth and rapid scale-up can be blurred. Our guest, an experienced HR leader, Penny Farinha, shares insights on recognizing the need to shift strategies between these phases and the lessons learned from being in the thick of it all.

From navigating the broad and constantly evolving landscape of HR to finding inspiration amidst challenges, Penny reveals where they turn for guidance and motivation while scaling. With a focus on assembling the right team, Penny discusses the critical mix of skills and attributes necessary for success in a scaling HR department.

Exploring the nuanced differences between growth and scaling, particularly in industries like technology, the conversation highlights the importance of HR's role in driving sustainable revenue increases. Amidst global challenges ranging from remote work to supply chain disruptions, this episode offers valuable strategies for thriving in the fast lane of organizational growth. Tune in for actionable insights and expert advice on steering your company toward success in today's ever-changing business landscape.

Connect with Penny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennyfarinha/.

Workforce to Careforce: How Employers are Addressing Caregiving Needs

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:15:07 -0000

Cindy Diogo discusses practical ways for employers to support caregiving employees, effective policies and benefits, the inspiration behind creating Consol, trends in the caregiving space, and the future of caregiving support.

Takeaways

Flexible work arrangements are crucial for supporting caregiving employees.
Authentic conversations and solutions are essential for accommodating employees' needs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview
05:29 Practical Ways to Support Caregiving Employees
09:09 Effective Policies and Benefits for Caregivers
11:34 Inspiration for Creating Consol
14:53 Trends and Developments in Caregiving Space
17:53 Key Takeaway: Future of Caregiving Support

About Cindy Diogo
Cindy, CEO and co-founder of ConSoul, is dedicated to shaping the landscape of caregiving support while balancing the joys of motherhood, caring for both her human child and furry companion. With nearly two decades of experience in talent acquisition and a commitment to innovation, she spearheads ConSoul in delivering vital services and resources to family caregivers. Cindy's approach blends humour with expertise, earning her the admiration of her son, who finds her quite amusing.

Connect with Cindy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindydiogo/ and her company at https://www.consoulapp.com/

The Generalist Vs Specialist Conundrum: Crafting the Modern Org Blueprint

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:13:33 -0000

The conversation explores the role of generalists in organizations, defining generalists in the workforce, the value of generalists in problem-solving, the debate between generalists and specialists, transitioning between generalist and specialist roles, changing organizational approach to jobs, and assessing good and potential in the future.

Takeaways

Value of Generalists in Organizations
The Importance of Systems Thinking

Chapters

00:00 The Role of Generalists in Organizations
06:30 Defining Generalists in the Workforce
08:05 Generalists vs. Specialists
09:10 The Value of Generalists in Problem Solving
09:39 The Debate Between Generalists and Specialists
12:11 Transitioning Between Generalist and Specialist
14:28 The Value of Generalists in Organizations
16:57 Changing Organizational Approach to Jobs
21:52 Assessing Good and Potential in the Future

About Julie Lavergne
Julie is on a mission to minimize THINKING waste; organizations, teams and leaders NEED to make better faster decisions. She focuses on organizational readiness, supporting them in addressing the challenges and changes knocking on every organization’s door: AI. As the Founder and CEO of 8Ball Clarity, she loves needling brains to co-create sustainable, innovative solutions tailored to the needs of today's dynamic landscape. As a former executive with nearly two decades in a global tech company, she is the quintessential Generalist. Julie holds a Master of Engineering and is a certified Critical Thinking facilitator and coach. She also partnered with an AI Startup and has an AI Business Strategies and Application Certificate (in progress) from Berkeley.

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/ and her company at https://8ballclarity.com/.

Beyond Exit Interviews: Why Stay Interviews Are Your Secret Weapon

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:11:19 -0000

Heidi Hauver shares insights on the 'great reimagination' post-pandemic and the importance of stay interviews. She emphasizes the proactive nature of stay interviews and the need for continuous communication and feedback with employees. Additionally, she discusses the significance of trust, transparency, and the use of technology in HR practices.

Takeaways

Great Reimagination
Proactive Stay Interviews

Chapters

00:00 The Great Reimagination
04:24 Overview of Background and Community Building
05:01 Ottawa as the Best Place to Live, Work, Learn, and Play
06:02 Difference Between Stay and Exit Interviews
11:06 Purpose and Benefits of Stay Interviews
16:29 Building Trust and Transparency
23:56 Utilizing Tools and Technology in HR Practices
27:13 Leadership Habits and Continuous Communication

About Heidi Hauver
Heidi is a dedicated leader committed to cultivating world-class cultures where individuals thrive and reach their full potential. Her innovative and data-driven approach, coupled with a growth mindset, positions her as a strategic people leader who is passionate about driving business success and cultivating exceptional leadership at every level of the organization. With over twenty years of proven experience, Heidi has consistently demonstrated her ability to create transformative strategies that empower teams, foster diversity and inclusion, and nurture a thriving company culture. Her collaborative approach not only drives sustainable growth but also unlocks the full potential of the companies she works with, making her a catalyst for positive change and organizational excellence.

Since 2007 she has founded an HR practice, built three HR departments for companies from the ground up and became the founding HR Executive for three companies. Heidi’s energetic leadership and constant innovation have earned her several awards, including the 2022 WBN Businesswomen of the Year Award for Community Impact, the 2020 Alumni of the Year Award (Business) with Algonquin College, the inaugural nationally recognized 2018 Leadership Agency Award for Woman of Distinction, a 2017 Top 25 HR Professional, the 2012 Ottawa Business Journal/Ottawa Chamber of Commerce Forty Under 40 Award, and the 2012 CATA Information Technology Strategic HR Leadership Award.

Heidi is a Certified Human Resources Executive, a Chartered Professional in Human Resources, a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional and a Certified Coach Practitioner. She is a dedicated volunteer and community builder who supports a variety of organizations including Algonquin College, Hire Immigrants Ottawa, and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).

Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidihauver.com.

Complicated to Clear: Building Buy-In for Your Compensation Strategy

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:09:30 -0000

Deanna Brousseau, Director of People at Elta ML, discusses her background, the importance of building a compensation philosophy, the components of total compensation mix, work-life balance and benefits, communication of compensation strategies, and trends in compensation. The conversation emphasizes the significance of transparency, multiple data sources, and understanding the needs and wants of employees in compensation strategies.

Takeaways

Transparency and multiple data sources are crucial in compensation strategies.
Understanding the needs and wants of employees is essential in building a compensation philosophy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
07:06 Building a Compensation Philosophy
09:13 Total Compensation Mix
10:11 Work-Life Balance and Benefits
18:11 Communication of Compensation Strategies
22:03 Trends in Compensation
24:26 Key Takeaways

About Deanna Brousseau
Deanna is living her dream as the Director, People & Talent with AltaML. As a human resources and talent acquisition specialist, Deanna has worked across various industries including oil & gas, nonprofit and government. Currently, Deanna leads the recruitment function at AltaML and is uniquely positioned to source and deploy qualified talent across AltaML’s broader family of companies. In addition, she is responsible for AlphaLayer’s people strategies and programs. Deanna holds a Bachelor of Management from the University of Lethbridge and is a Certified Human Resources Professional.

Connect with Deanna on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-brousseau/.

Generation Next? Managing the Evolving Workplace

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:07:40 -0000

Sally De Rosa discusses the impact of generational diversity in the workforce and the challenges and opportunities it presents. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, collaboration, and understanding in managing multiple generations and leveraging technology to bridge the generation gap.

Takeaways

Empathy and collaboration are essential in managing multiple generations in the workforce.
Technology plays a crucial role in bridging the generation gap and fostering collaboration in virtual work environments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sally De Rosa
04:22 Pre-Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Events
04:50 Generational Diversity in the Workforce
07:06 Challenges of Managing Multiple Generations
11:02 Fostering Collaboration Among Different Generations
14:48 Role of Technology in Bridging the Generation Gap
16:57 Adapting to Virtual Work Environments
18:00 Key Takeaways

About Sally De Rosa
Sally is a seasoned HR professional turned entrepreneur in the technology space. With over 15 years of experience building and streamlining HR departments, she saw a need to elevate strategic people management in business. While simultaneously heading up the people and culture department at Diabsolut since 2011, Sally was given the opportunity and support to build her vision from the ground up resulting in HRWize, a customizable HRIS for growing businesses. Now supporting clients across the globe with their HRIS needs, Sally continues to look out for clients’ best interests while elevating the game in people technology. Sally focuses on working with organizations which align with HRWize’s core values, as well as a matter close to her heart: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB).

Connect with Sally on the following social media platforms:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sderosa/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrwize/
https://www.hrwize.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hrwize/
https://www.youtube.com/@hrwize5574
https://www.facebook.com/hrwize
https://www.tiktok.com/@hrwize

Bridging the Feedback Gap with AI

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:53:34 -0000

Ansel Duff, CEO of Fordi, discusses the use of AI for feedback and the gaps it addresses. He highlights the importance of feedback as a business concept and the role of AI in enabling real-time, self-service feedback. The responsible use of AI for feedback is also emphasized, along with key takeaways for the audience.

Takeaways

Feedback as a business concept
AI enables real-time, self-service feedback

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
06:04 Identifying Gaps in Feedback
10:16 AI as a Solution for Feedback Gaps
15:14 Responsible Use of AI for Feedback
20:35 Key Takeaways and Closing

About Ansel Duff:
Ansel Duff is the CEO of Fordi, an artificial intelligence software business based in New York City. Fordi’s copilot provides teams with self-service tools to share task-level feedback, access their group’s knowledge base, and receive coaching guidance, all in real-time. Before starting Fordi, Ansel worked in financial services as an investment banker and private equity investor. While investing in professional services businesses, Ansel saw how siloed and clunky the tools were for sharing knowledge and handling feedback, and thus Fordi was born to address these pain points. When he’s not working on Fordi, Ansel loves to cook, run, and play guitar.

Connect with Ansel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/anselduff/ or on the Fordi website at https://fordi.io/.

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that builds business leaders' and HR practitioners' skills and careers. We offer a wide range of products and services from coaching, mentorship and strategic advisory services to our new Leadership Activated program and G.R.O.W. Learning Community for HR practitioners. Be sure to take a few minutes and browse through our website.

To contact ScaleHR please go to https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/. We always love an awesome chat!

The Trust Problem in Hiring: What Remote Work Has Exposed

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 02:33:13 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #82
Topic: The Trust Problem in Hiring: What Remote Work Exposed
Guest: Kristina Benassi – Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition, Euna Solutions
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinabenassi/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Remote hiring changed everything. Organizations can now recruit talent from virtually anywhere, using virtual interviews, AI-powered tools, and digital hiring processes that are faster and more scalable than ever before. But every innovation comes with trade-offs. As hiring fraud, AI-assisted interviews, proxy candidates, and increasingly polished online personas become more common, many organizations are realizing that the traditional signals they once relied on to assess talent are no longer as reliable.

The bigger question isn't simply how to prevent fraud. It's how to design hiring processes that prioritize trust, authenticity, and long-term hiring success.

In this episode, Kristina Benassi joins Jeff Waldman to explore what trustworthy hiring looks like in a world where technology has fundamentally changed both how candidates present themselves and how employers evaluate talent.

We explore:

👉 Why remote hiring optimized for convenience, but not always for confidence
👉 What organizations have unintentionally lost as hiring became more digital
👉 Why interviews often measure performance under pressure instead of performance on the job
👉 Why adding more interviews, assessments, and verification steps doesn't necessarily lead to better hiring decisions
👉 Practical principles for designing hiring processes built on trust, authenticity, and better outcomes

Whether you're an HR leader, recruiter, hiring manager, or executive, this conversation will challenge how you think about evaluating talent in the age of AI and remote work.

About Kristina Benassi:

Kristina Benassi is the Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition at Euna Solutions, where she has spent the past six years building and leading the company's talent acquisition function. With more than 15 years of recruiting experience, she leads while remaining hands-on, hiring technical, engineering, and senior leadership talent across a complex, multi-product SaaS organization. Kristina is passionate about the difference between having a hiring process and having a hiring strategy. Her focus is on building hiring systems that are consistent, trustworthy, and reflective of how people actually perform on the job.

🔗 Connect with Kristina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinabenassi/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #Recruiting #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #HR #FutureOfWork #Leadership #HRTech #RemoteWork #AI

AI and Workplace Investigations: Finding the Right Balance

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:08:34 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #81
Topic: AI and Workplace Investigations: Finding the Right Balance
Guest: Ashley Brown – Partner, Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti LLP
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
AI is transforming nearly every aspect of HR, and workplace investigations are no exception. From organizing evidence and summarizing interviews to drafting reports and identifying patterns, AI has the potential to make investigations more efficient and consistent. But workplace investigations are ultimately about people. They require trust, fairness, credibility, and sound judgment. As AI becomes more capable, and challenges like privacy concerns, bias, transcription errors, and deepfakes become more common, HR leaders must understand where technology adds value and where human judgment remains irreplaceable.

In this episode, Ashley Brown joins Jeff Waldman to explore how organizations can responsibly integrate AI into workplace investigations while maintaining fairness, accuracy, and trust.

We explore:

👉 Where AI can improve efficiency during workplace investigations
👉 Why credibility assessments and difficult conversations still require human judgment
👉 The emerging risks of AI, including bias, privacy concerns, and fabricated evidence
👉 How HR leaders can responsibly adopt AI without compromising fairness or trust
👉 What the future of AI-powered workplace investigations could look like

Whether you're an HR leader, employment lawyer, investigator, or business executive, this episode offers practical guidance for navigating one of HR's most sensitive responsibilities in the age of AI.

About Ashley Brown:
Ashley Brown is a Partner at Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti LLP, practising out of the firm's Kitchener-Waterloo and Toronto offices. She advises employers across all areas of labour and employment law, including workplace investigations, human rights, occupational health and safety, employment contracts, executive compensation, labour relations, collective bargaining, and workplace restructuring.

🔗 Connect with Ashley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-brown-95718a45/
🌐 Ashley's Profile: https://filionlaw.com/team-member/ashley-brown/
🔗 Filion on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/filion-wakely-thorup-angeletti-llp/
🌐 Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti LLP: https://filionlaw.com/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), helping emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech companies accelerate brand awareness and lead generation through Catalyst, our community-driven content and omnichannel marketing solution.

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #AI #WorkplaceInvestigations #EmploymentLaw #HR #Leadership #PeopleAndCulture #HRTech #FutureOfWork

Insurance Transformation: Catch-Up or Collaboration?

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:08:30 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #26
Topic: Insurance Transformation: Catch-Up or Collaboration?
Guest: Chris Gory
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

In this episode of our podcast, titled "Insurance Transformation: Catch-Up or Collaboration?", we dive into the state of the health insurance industry in Canada with our guest, Chris Gory. We explore why the Canadian health insurance landscape seems slow to innovate compared to other markets, particularly the U.S. Over the past 25 years, the industry has struggled to keep pace with the evolving needs of Canadians, especially with the recent surge in demand for coverage in areas like medical marijuana, fertility treatments, and mental health support.

We tackle several pressing questions:

Why do legacy carriers lag in evolving their coverages for new or niche areas?

Are insurtech companies truly disrupting the space, or are they merely partnering with traditional carriers to gain a foothold?

What is the potential impact of specialty platforms focusing on niche areas such as fertility, virtual care for kids, and support for women dealing with menopause?

What trends are emerging in the Canadian health insurance market?

Are there any innovative platforms that our viewers might not yet be aware of?

Watch this episode; an insightful discussion on whether the Canadian health insurance industry is perpetually playing catch-up or if there's a shift towards meaningful collaboration and innovation.

About Chris Gory:
Chris is the President & Employee Benefits Consultant at Orchard Benefits (Launched in 2000 and formerly known as Insurance Portfolio Financial Services). Orchard Benefits specializes in helping startups and fast-growing companies get the right benefits coverage to meet their budgets and the needs of their employees. They began doing business with startups after realizing their insurance needs were unique and needed someone who knew the challenges companies faced. Orchard Benefits works closely with dozens of advisors and organizations across Canada and startups in Toronto’s flourishing tech space.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgory/ or on the Orchard Benefits website at https://orchardbenefits.ca/.

About ScaleHR:

The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Engagement Equation: Data Meets Action

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:04:33 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #27
Topic: The Engagement Equation: Data Meets Action
Guest: Larissa Currah – Founder, LC People Consulting
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Employee engagement is slipping—but collecting more survey data isn't the answer. The real challenge is turning employee feedback into meaningful action.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman and Larissa Currah explore how HR leaders can use engagement data to build stronger cultures, improve retention, and create better employee experiences—even during periods of economic uncertainty.

We explore:

👉 Which engagement metrics matter most
👉 How often organizations should survey employees
👉 Best practices for communicating engagement results
👉 How to improve engagement during layoffs and cost pressures
👉 Practical advice for leading disengaged teams

Whether you're an HR leader, manager, or executive, this episode offers actionable ideas for moving from insight to impact.

About Larissa Currah:

Larissa Currah is the Founder of LC People Consulting and an experienced HR leader who has helped high-growth technology companies build scalable, high-performing cultures. She previously led People Operations at ThinkLP and played a key role in scaling Magnet Forensics through its IPO and eventual acquisition by Thoma Bravo.

🔗 Connect with Larissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissacurrah/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/

#Podcast #EmployeeEngagement #Leadership #HR #PeopleAndCulture #FutureOfWork #HRTech

AI and HR: Taking the Leap

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:01:14 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #28
Topic: AI in HR: From Experimentation to Everyday Impact
Guest: Manuela (Mani) Paoletta – SVP, People & Culture at AlayaCare
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

AI has gone from curiosity to everyday reality for HR teams.

With tools like ChatGPT and Gemini transforming how work gets done, HR leaders are rethinking everything from talent acquisition to employee experience. But successful adoption isn't just about technology—it's about building confidence, capability, and a culture of experimentation.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman is joined by Manuela (Mani) Paoletta to explore how AI is reshaping HR and what leaders can do to stay ahead.

We explore:

👉 How Mani's AI journey began
👉 Real examples of AI improving HR practices at AlayaCare
👉 How to build AI literacy across HR teams
👉 Where AI in HR is headed next
👉 Practical advice for HR professionals just getting started

Whether you're experimenting with AI or looking to accelerate adoption across your organization, this episode is full of practical insights.

About Manuela (Mani) Paoletta:

Manuela (Mani) Paoletta is the Senior Vice President, People & Culture at AlayaCare. She is a recognized HR leader known for integrating AI into the employee lifecycle and has held leadership roles at Shutterstock, TAXI, Gameloft, and Dassault Systèmes. Mani is passionate about helping organizations apply AI in practical, people-centered ways.

🔗 Connect with Mani: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuela-mani-paoletta-42a1523/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/

#Podcast #AI #HR #HRTech #FutureOfWork #Leadership #PeopleAndCulture #ChatGPT

AI at Work - Navigating the New Frontier of HR Governance and Adoption

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:58:30 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #29
Topic: AI at Work - Navigating the New Frontier of HR Governance and Adoption
Guest: Ryman Stringer
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this latest episode of the Unmuted Podcast, we delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in Human Resources with our esteemed guest, Ryman Stringer. AI is revolutionizing many aspects of our lives, including how we practice and think about HR. It’s been incredible to witness the transformation and innovation happening in our field.

We’re seeing significant adoption of AI-powered chatbots, enhanced predictive analytics, and the growth of AI-driven learning and development tools. But this is only the beginning. The potential of AI in HR is vast and yet to be fully realized.

However, with great power comes great responsibility. The adoption of AI introduces a host of challenges and ethical considerations, including systems bias and fairness, employee privacy, data privacy, and overall governance.

In this episode, we explore these critical issues and more through a series of thought-provoking questions for our guest:
1) What is AI governance?
2) Why should we care about governance in HR?
3) With so many AI tools available, it can feel like the Wild West. How should organizations determine which tools to use and which to avoid?
4) The role of IT in managing tech stacks has changed. What role, if any, should HR play in the adoption and implementation of AI?
5) What are the biggest challenges HR faces when adopting AI, and how can they be overcome?

Tune in for a comprehensive look at AI in HR and discover how to navigate the new frontier of HR governance and adoption. Don’t miss this insightful conversation packed with actionable advice and expert insights!

About Ryman Stringer:
Ryman is a culture and people ops guru with experience in recruiting and developing AI talent. She currently leads people operations, HR, and talent acquisition for KUNGFU.AI, an artificial intelligence professional services firm. Her interests and expertise lie in emerging tech, AI ethics, remote-first culture building, DEI, and scaling startups through a people-focused lens. She is a graduate of Leadership Austin’s Emerge program and is a two-time nominee for Austin Business Journal’s Women in Business.

Connect with Ryman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rymanstringer/

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Accommodated Journey: Ensuring Success in the 1st 90 Days & Beyond

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:56:18 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #30
Topic: The Accommodated Journey: Ensuring Success in the 1st 90 Days & Beyond
Guest: Kate Kalcevich
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this insightful episode of the Unmuted Podcast, we delve into the crucial topic of workplace accommodations and their impact on employee success, particularly in the pivotal first 90 days. Our guest expert, Kate Kalcevich, sheds light on the various stages of the employee journey where accommodations can make a significant difference.

Key Discussion Points:
1. Points of Accommodation in the Employee Journey: we explore the critical touchpoints where accommodations can be most effective, from the initial job application to onboarding and ongoing employment.

2. Accommodations for Job Applicants and Candidates: Kate discusses essential accommodations that should be made during the hiring process to ensure that all candidates have an equitable opportunity to succeed.

3. Post-Hire Accommodations: we examine the range of accommodations employers can offer once an employee has started working, ensuring that they are set up for long-term success.

4. Role of Technology in Accommodations: the conversation shifts to how technology can facilitate both physical and behavioral accommodations, enhancing the overall employee experience.

5. Identifying Unrecognized Accommodation Needs: Kate provides strategies for addressing situations where an employee may not be aware of their need for accommodations, ensuring that no one is left without the support they require.

Let's take a deep dive into the world of workplace accommodations, where we uncover practical insights and strategies to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for everyone.

About Kate Kalcevich:
Kate Kalcevich has championed accessibility primarily for digital services, but also in the area of workplace accommodations, since 2001. Kate is currently the Head of Accessibility Innovation at Fable, a leading accessibility company enabling the development of inclusive digital products. In her role at Fable, she focuses on helping large organizations practice innovative approaches to accessibility. Kate wears hearing aids in both ears.

Connect with Kate on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/katekalcevich/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Evolution of HR Tech: PeopleOS vs HRMS

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:53:56 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #31

Topic: The Evolution of HR Tech: PeopleOS vs HRMS
Guest: Noah Marks
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode, we explore the dynamic evolution of the HR tech industry over the past decade, moving from outdated, cumbersome platforms to today's sleek, mobile-first, and AI-integrated systems. While delving into the key differences between PeopleOS and HRMS, we recognize that HRMS initially aimed to enhance administrative functions like payroll, recruitment, and employee data management, eliminating paper processes and improving scalability for administrators. However, focusing solely on the administrator experience is now inadequate. User experience is paramount, driving the concept of People OS, which parallels the hyper-personalization seen in customer experiences across various industries.

Discussion Points:
1) Fundamental Differences and Core Functionalities:
Host Jeff Waldman and guest Noah Marks discuss the fundamental differences between HRMS and People OS. They highlight the core functionalities that set them apart, with People OS emphasizing a user-centric approach, unlike the traditionally administrator-focused HRMS.

2) Evolution of HR Technology:
The conversation shifts to the significant evolution in the HR tech landscape over the past decade. Key trends driving the shift from traditional HRMS to PeopleOS are explored, including advancements in mobile technology, AI integration, and the increasing importance of user experience.

3) Benefits and Challenges of Adopting PeopleOS:
The episode examines the main benefits of adopting a People OS over a traditional HRMS, such as enhanced user engagement and streamlined processes. Conversely, challenges organizations might face during this transition are also discussed, providing a balanced view of the shift.

4) Real-World Examples and Case Studies:
Noah Marks shares real-world examples and case studies of organizations that have successfully implemented PeopleOS. These examples illustrate the significant impact on HR processes and overall employee experience, offering listeners practical insights.

5) Future Innovations in HR Technology:
Looking ahead, the discussion anticipates the future evolution of HR technology. Innovations and emerging technologies expected to shape the future of PeopleOS and HRMS are explored, giving listeners a glimpse into the potential advancements on the horizon.

About Noah Marks:
Noah Marks is a South African-born Go To Market Specialist, living in Israel and working at DreamTeam. Noah leads the company's growth efforts for their revolutionary PeopleOS, bringing this awesome and game-changing product to the strongest HR leaders around the globe.(Edited)

Connect with Noah on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahrubinmarks/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

InnovAbility: Driving Digital Transformation with Diverse Talent

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:50:05 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #32
Topic: InnovAbility: Driving Digital Transformation with Diverse Talent
Guest: Eyra Abraham
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Accessible technology is better technology. As organizations embrace digital transformation, people with disabilities must be part of designing, building, and testing the technologies they use every day. Inclusion isn't just the right thing to do, it's a powerful driver of innovation.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman speaks with Eyra Abraham about how disability inclusion fuels better products, stronger teams, and smarter businesses.

We explore:

👉 Why people with disabilities are essential to digital innovation
👉 The business case for hiring more people with disabilities
👉 Common barriers to employment in the tech sector—and how to remove them
👉 How organizations can build more inclusive workplace cultures
👉 What the future of accessibility and innovation looks like

If you're interested in accessibility, AI, HR, or the future of work, this episode offers practical insights on creating workplaces where everyone can contribute.

About Eyra Abraham

Eyra Abraham is the Founder of Lisnen, an AI-powered accessibility startup helping people with hearing loss gain better access at home, at work, and in their communities. She serves on accessibility initiatives at both the provincial and federal levels and is a recognized advocate for disability inclusion, AI, and innovation. In 2019, she was named one of Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch.

🔗 Connect with Eyra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eyraabraham/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/

#Podcast #Accessibility #Inclusion #AI #HR #FutureOfWork #Leadership #HRTech

Tech Without Limits: Ensuring Accessibility for All in Tech

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:47:50 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #33
Topic: Tech Without Limits: Ensuring Accessibility for All in Tech
Guest: Sydney Elaine Butler
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In the latest episode of the Unmuted Podcast, titled "Tech Without Limits: Ensuring Accessibility for All in the Tech Sector," the focus is on the critical importance of accessibility in technology. Host and ScaleHR Founder, Jeff Waldman, begins by emphasizing how deeply technology has integrated into every aspect of our lives—shaping the way we work, communicate, and live. Despite this, there remains a significant gap in accessibility for underrepresented groups, particularly those with disabilities.

With over 25% of the population identifying as having a disability, the need for more accessible workplaces in the tech sector is not just a moral obligation but a strategic business imperative. However, improving accessibility is challenging and requires dedicated effort and commitment.

To explore this vital topic, Sydney Elaine Butler joins the conversation, offering insights and strategies to help the tech sector become more inclusive. The discussion delves into key questions such as the meaning of accessibility, its importance in tech companies, and practical ways to make workplaces and products more accessible.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the tech industry looking to ensure their work is accessible to all.

About Sydney Elaine Butler
A 2020 graduate from Sheridan College with the Honours of Bachelor of Business Administration-Human Resources program. As a neurodiverse individual who is also an HR Professional. It is my understanding that my professional purpose must be to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be successful regardless of barriers in their way, and I must as a professional remove these barriers. I wrote AODA policies, practices and procedures for a non-profit and made sure they were compliant and were in a situation where they could better train their employees to work alongside and provide support to clients with disabilities. I hosted a workshop for my team for Disability Pride Month to help educate them and have them start the importance of Accessibility and Accommodation for all. I believe educating and speaking about these things is essential as part of my duty to both the communities I identify so strongly with.

Connect with Sydney on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydney-elaine-butler/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Game-Changing Candidate Experience - The Power of Small Actions

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:46:06 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #34
Topic: Game-Changing Candidate Experience - The Power of Small Actions
Guest: Marlies Farrill
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode of the Unmuted podcast, host Jeff Waldman dives into the critical topic of candidate experience with guest Marlies Farrill. As our business environment becomes increasingly complex and technology-driven, the need for a positive candidate experience has never been more crucial. Jeff highlights that while we have long considered candidate experience important, today’s fast-paced and specialized job market makes it essential.

Marlies Farrill defines candidate experience as the overall perception a job seeker forms about a company during the recruitment process. She emphasizes its significance in today’s competitive job market, where a single negative experience can not only lose a candidate but also harm a company’s reputation when shared online.

The discussion covers common mistakes companies make, such as poor communication and lack of transparency, which can severely impact the candidate experience. Marlies stresses the importance of balancing personalization with efficiency in the hiring process, ensuring candidates feel valued without compromising on the speed and effectiveness of recruitment.

Finally, Marlies offers practical advice for listeners, encouraging them to take immediate small actions—such as sending personalized follow-up messages or providing clear timelines—to enhance the candidate experience. These seemingly minor efforts can have a game-changing impact on how candidates perceive and engage with a company.

About Marlies Farrill
Marlies, a seasoned HR and recruiting expert is no stranger to the stage! With a background in HR and recruiting, she's honed her skills as a dynamic speaker who knows how to command a room. As the co-host of 'Talent Savvy,' she's uncovered the secrets of success in the modern workforce. Working alongside big names like Booking.com, Pinterest, and Properly, Marlies has earned her stripes as a talent guru. But it's her passion for disability inclusion that truly sets her apart. When she's not advocating for a more inclusive world, you'll find her engrossed in a good book, or eagerly following the drama on 'The Bachelor or cuddling with her pets.

Connect with Marlies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marliesfarrill/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Operating HR as a Team of One

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:43:49 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #35
Topic: Operating HR as a Team of One
Guest: Celine Maasland
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode of the Unmuted podcast, host Jeff Waldman welcomes Celine Maasland of @RVezy to discuss the unique challenges and strategies for operating as a solo HR professional. Jeff opens the conversation by highlighting the evolving demands on HR professionals, especially in small to mid-sized businesses, where they often wear multiple hats and navigate complex challenges. He notes the transformative impact of generative AI on HR, enabling professionals to do more with less, and touches on the financial constraints that often leave HR teams with limited resources.

Celine shares her insights on leveraging technology, particularly AI, to enhance scalability and efficiency in a one-person HR department. She also delves into the importance of building strategic partnerships within the organization to extend her reach and influence. Celine further discusses her approach to time management and prioritization, essential skills for solo HR practitioners, and offers her perspective on how the role of solo HR professionals will continue to evolve as technology advances.

About Celine Maasland
Celine Maasland is the Head of People and Culture at RVezy, a fast-growing Ottawa scale-up offering peer-to-peer RV rentals. As the first and only member of the HR team at RVezy, she has been pivotal in defining and executing innovative HR strategies. Her efforts in implementing full-cycle hiring processes, developing career progression programs, and promoting a diverse and inclusive environment have not only attracted but retained top talent.

Her education in international management and her experiences across various global contexts equip her with the nuanced understanding necessary to enhance organizational effectiveness and foster employee development. As a multilingual communicator with a rich cultural background, Celine brings a distinct perspective that enhances her leadership, driving significant impact in her organization.

Connect with Celine on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/celinemaasland/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Grief in the Workplace: How to Support Employees Through Loss

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:41:59 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #36
Topic: Grief in the Workplace: How to Support Employees Through Loss
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this solo episode of Unmuted, I delve into a deeply personal and important topic: grief in the workplace. Inspired by my recent experience of visiting a long-time friend in palliative care, I reflect on the emotions I’ve been grappling with and explore how organizations can better support employees through similar challenges.

We begin by acknowledging that grief affects everyone differently, and organizations need to create environments where employees feel supported during times of loss. From offering flexible work arrangements and reviewing bereavement leave policies to promoting mental health resources, there are several ways companies can show care and understanding.

I discuss the importance of building a compassionate culture, equipping managers with the skills to support grieving employees, and ensuring long-term follow-up, as grief is not something that resolves after a few days off.

Whether you're an HR leader, manager, or someone navigating grief yourself, this episode offers insight into how we can better care for our colleagues when they need it most.

Please share your comments.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Immigration Insights: Empowering HR in a Shifting Landscape

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:40:01 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #37
Topic: Immigration Insights: Empowering HR in a Shifting Landscape
Guest: Blayne Kumar
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode of Unmuted, we’re diving into the world of immigration and compliance with Blayne Kumar of IMMPROVED, focusing on how HR teams can navigate Canada’s evolving immigration landscape to gain a competitive edge. As global talent becomes critical to business success, understanding immigration complexities is essential for HR leaders.

We start by examining compliance essentials for hiring non-Canadian employees, shedding light on the nuanced legal requirements HR professionals need to manage. Blayne also clears up common misconceptions that could lead to costly risks when supporting non-Canadian hires. As Canada’s immigration policies shift, we break down the latest changes HR teams should watch and discuss strategies to leverage these updates to enhance talent acquisition efforts.

From risk management to strategic opportunities, this episode equips HR leaders with practical insights to empower their teams in a competitive labour market.

About Blayne Kumar
Blayne, Founder and CEO of Bright Immigration (https://brightimmigration.com/), IMMproved (https://www.getimmproved.com/) and Immitracker (https://www.immitracker.app/).

With over 14 years of dedication to fostering ethical immigration services, Blayne's mission is to make Canada an accessible dream for countless individuals. At IMMPROVED, values of transparency and honesty guide them, as they leverage technology to provide personalized immigration solutions. Blayne's expertise in Canadian immigration law is central to their organization's commitment to shaping a noble world, where we celebrate and integrate diverse perspectives while aligning with Canadian values.

As Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Immitracker, Blayne spent the last 1.5 years pioneering the use of strategic innovation to enhance the immigration journey. They built a leading application tracker, aiding immigrants bound for Canada and Australia. His role involves marrying my new business development acumen with a deep understanding of strategy to steer their vision, helping navigate the complexities of immigration for many.

Connect with Blayne on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaynek/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Storytelling in HR

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:37:55 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #38

Topic: Storytelling in HR
Guest: Tovit Neizer
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Storytelling has always been a powerful way for humans to connect, and in the world of HR, it plays a critical role in shaping culture, engagement, and recruitment. In this episode, Jeff Waldman sits down with Tovit Neizer to explore how HR leaders can craft and share compelling stories that align with their company’s mission and values.

Together, they discuss practical strategies for uncovering a company’s unique story, turning employees into passionate brand ambassadors, and enhancing the candidate experience to stand out in a competitive market. Tovit also shares inspiring examples of organizations that have leveraged storytelling to drive employee engagement and build brand loyalty.

If you’re looking to harness the power of storytelling to create deeper connections within your organization and attract top talent, this episode is for you!

About Tovit Neizer
Tovit Neizer helps companies create and sharpen their business story to communicate effectively internally and externally. Her consulting boutique, Yellow Bricks, is focused on strategic projects such as companies' branding and building effective talks for executives and teams' training (personal branding, presentation skills and communication).

Connect with Tovit on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tovitneizer/. Her company, Yellow Bricks, website is https://www.yellowbricks.net/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The First 90 Days - Establishing Trust with Leaders

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:36:06 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #39
Topic: The First 90 Days - Establishing Trust with Leaders
Guest: Jessica Lewis
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode of Unmuted, host Jeff Waldman is joined by Jessica Lewis, Senior Manager of People & Culture at PointsBet, to discuss the critical first 90 days in an HR leadership role. They explore how establishing trust with senior stakeholders early on can dramatically influence an HR leader’s ability to make strategic decisions and impact the organization. Jessica shares practical strategies for aligning with business leaders’ priorities and highlights the importance of distinguishing between urgent and important tasks to stay focused on the right goals. They also dive into common pitfalls that HR professionals face during their first 90 days and discuss effective ways to navigate them. Whether you're stepping into an HR leadership role or aiming to enhance your approach, Jessica’s insights offer valuable guidance on how to build relationships, prioritize tasks, and set the stage for long-term success.

About Jessica Lewis
Jessica Lewis is a human-centric HR leader dedicated to building collaborative team cultures and creating positive employee experiences. With a solid background in developing and implementing HR programs in fast-paced environments, Jessica focuses on driving success through high-performing teams. She thrives in dynamic settings and prioritizes effective communication, time management, and staying focused on my goals. As a passionate team player with a strong understanding of business, Jessica is committed to helping our organization excel.

Jessica is particularly passionate about fostering team culture by leveraging my degrees in Human Resources and Public Relations. Her goal is to enhance team communication, employee engagement, and employee development, and aspires to inspire organizations to adopt new perspectives on culture, human resources, leadership, and employee development.

Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lewis-86744352/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

A Founder's Perspective on Transforming the Employee Experience with AI

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:34:15 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #40
Topic: A Founder's Perspective on Transforming the Employee Experience with AI
Guest: Jack Lau
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode, host Jeff Waldman explores how generative AI is reshaping industries and transforming the workplace. He speaks with Jack Lau, Co-Founder and CEO of Litespace, about the company's journey of innovation and evolution.

Key discussion points include:
- How Litespace began, the challenges it initially aimed to address, and the solutions it offered.
- The pivotal moment that led to a major shift in focus, with insights into what inspired the change and how it aligned with their long-term vision.
- The critical role generative AI plays in their new approach, enabling organizations to elevate employee experience and engagement in meaningful, practical ways.

This episode provides a deep dive into the transformative potential of AI and the story behind Litespace’s evolution.

About Jack Lau
Jack Lau is the Co-Founder and CEO of Litespace, an AI HR copilot that supports administrative tasks such as compliance research, document management, and employee help desk support.

Connect with Jack on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacktlau/. You can check out his company, Litespace, at https://www.litespace.io/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Wild Side of Hiring: A Recruiter’s Untold Stories

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:32:22 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #41
Topic: The Wild Side of Hiring: A Recruiter’s Untold Stories
Guest: Marshall Berenbaum
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Recruiting might seem like a straightforward process—find great candidates, match them with great opportunities, and call it a day. But behind the scenes? It’s an unpredictable rollercoaster filled with unexpected twists, legal gray areas, and moments that will leave you speechless.

In this episode of Unmuted, podcast host, Jeff Waldman, sits down with Marshall Berenbaum to dive into some of the wildest stories from his recruiting career. From candidates who turned out to be completely different people to clients making eyebrow-raising requests, we explore what really goes on behind closed doors in the hiring world.

We discuss:
🔹 The most bizarre and challenging hiring situations Marshall has faced
🔹 A client’s secretive hiring request—and what it meant for trust in the industry
🔹 How an introverted candidate surprised everyone and became a top performer
🔹 Navigating tricky situations when clients and candidates make a recruiter’s job nearly impossible

If you think you’ve seen it all in hiring, think again. Tune in for an inside look at the untold stories of recruiting—because sometimes, truth is stranger than fiction.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered conversations!

About Marshall Berenbaum
Marshall Berenbaum is a forward-thinking Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant who brings expertise in successfully integrating AI into his sourcing and recruiting processes. He brings a strong focus on the engineering and technology sectors and a proven track record of advancing careers and connecting top talent with new opportunities. His innovative approach and adaptability to emerging technologies underscore his commitment to solving conventional problems with fresh, AI-driven solutions.

Marshall's career is distinguished by his dedication to leveraging the latest advancements to enhance recruitment strategies and outcomes. His ability to embrace and implement new technologies reflects his belief in the power of technology to transform traditional practices and drive success.

Beyond his professional achievements, Marshall is a proud father of three who inspire him to continually push boundaries and strive for excellence in and out of the workplace.

Connect with Marshall on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshallberenbaum/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Ripple Effect of Manager Effectiveness on HR

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:17 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #42

Topic: The Ripple Effect of Manager Effectiveness on HR
Guest: Laura Goodridge
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

In this episode, Jeff Waldman and Laura Goodridge explore how manager effectiveness directly impacts HR’s ability to function strategically. Jeff highlights the "dual role of HR" - shaping culture while supporting managers—and the challenge of managerial dependency, where excessive reliance on HR for routine issues hinders organizational efficiency.

Laura discusses common managerial pitfalls, such as poor communication and lack of accountability, that create friction between employees and HR. She shares strategies for balancing HR’s support with manager ownership, emphasizing leadership training and clear accountability to reduce unnecessary reliance on HR.

Key Takeaway: Strong managers allow HR to focus on strategic priorities, fostering a more efficient and engaged workplace.

About Laura Goodridge
Laura is an HR leader turned Manager Coach & Learning Program Facilitator. With over a decade of HR & Culture experience, Laura is known for teaching & coaching managers to connect, communicate & commit to their role as a people leader that drives business results. Laura has developed a unique coach-learning approach that focuses on learning the fundamental skills of management while tackling the challenge of application of learning into the everyday. Laura comes with a proven track record in building human-centric organizations that enable true leadership development.

Connect with Laura on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-manager-coach/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Vision + Voice: Empowering Teams with Clarity & Purpose, & a Good Sleep

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:27:37 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #43
Topic: Vision & Voice: Building Teams That Thrive
Guest: Sheila Avari
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Strong teams don't happen by accident. They start with a clear vision and a shared voice.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman sits down with Sheila Avari to explore how leaders can create alignment, build trust, and foster cultures where employees understand not just what they do, but why they do it.

We explore:

👉 Why vision and voice are essential to high-performing teams
👉 How organizations can embed these principles into their culture
👉 Practical ways leaders can reinforce vision and voice every day
👉 How to measure their impact on engagement and performance
👉 Plus... why getting a good night's sleep might make you a better leader!

Whether you're leading a team or shaping organizational culture, this episode offers practical ideas you can apply immediately.

About Sheila Avari:

Sheila Avari is the Founder of Fusion Consulting Group, where she advises CEOs, CHROs, and executive teams on employee experience, leadership, culture, and organizational growth. She also founded the I.D.E.A.L. Workplace Study, providing research-backed insights into leadership and workplace culture, and is the creator of Career Curiosity Camp, helping prepare the next generation of leaders.

🔗 Connect with Sheila: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaavari/
🌐 Learn more: https://fusionconsultinggroup.com/

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

From Startup to Enterprise: Preserving Culture Amid Acquisition

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:23:48 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode 44
Topic: From Startup to Enterprise: Preserving Culture Amid Acquisition
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Shawna Stewart

Startups thrive on a strong, close-knit culture, but what happens when that startup is acquired by a massive global enterprise? Can its original identity survive? In this episode of Unmuted, Jeff Waldman sits down with Shawna Stewart to explore the challenges and strategies of maintaining company culture after an acquisition.

🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✅ How to preserve startup culture in a 70,000-person enterprise
✅ Ensuring employees stay connected to the original mission and values
✅ Leadership influence in a much larger corporate environment
✅ Lessons learned and advice for HR leaders navigating acquisitions

Shawna shares firsthand insights from her company’s journey, revealing what worked, what didn’t, and how leaders can navigate the complexities of scale without losing their identity. Whether you're a startup founder, HR leader, or simply curious about the impact of acquisitions on workplace culture, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

#podcast #hr #humanresources #WorkplaceCulture #leadership #startup #tech #technology #acquisition

About Shawna Stewart
Shawna Stewart is a strategic People & Operations leader recognized for her innovative approach to blending people strategy with business operations. Initiatives like Recognition BINGO and Innovation Fridays under her guidance have not only revitalized workplace culture but also significantly boosted operational effectiveness and financial performance. Shawna has played a pivotal role in 2 successful startup acquisitions and her work has gained notice from Forbes, Great Place to Work Canada, The HR Awards and more. Shawna leverages her background in psychology to lead in organizational design and behaviour, shaping future standards in tech HR. She has recently been nominated for DMZ's Women of the Year 2025, affirming her impact across the tech landscape.

Connect with Shawna on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawna-stewart-73230a127/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Redefining & Evolving the Chief People Officer: What It Takes to Succeed

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:55:46 -0000

Unmuted Podcast - Episode #45
Topic: Redefining & Evolving the Chief People Officer - What It Takes to Succeed
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Joanna Kmiec

The role of the Chief People Officer (CPO) is undergoing a major transformation. No longer just focused on HR operations, today’s CPO is a strategic business driver, shaping company culture, talent strategies, and overall organizational success. In this episode of Unmuted, host Jeff Waldman sits down with Joanna Kmiec to explore what it truly takes to succeed in this evolving role.

Joanna shares insights on the critical skills modern CPOs need—being data-driven, tech-savvy, and aligned with business goals—to influence at the executive level. She also breaks down the difference between a reactive HR leader and a truly strategic CPO, offering practical advice on how HR professionals can demonstrate their business value.

Other key discussion points include:
✅ The biggest misconceptions about working in HR and who shouldn’t pursue this career
✅ Red flags candidates should watch for when interviewing for a CPO role
✅ How CPOs can advocate for their worth in today’s job market

If you’re an HR leader, aspiring CPO, or business executive looking to understand the true impact of People & Culture leadership, this episode is a must-listen!

#podcast #hr #leader #management #leadership #career #humanresources #work

About Joanna Kmiec
Strategic, results-driven HR Executive with a bias for action, and extensive experience in global HR strategy, workforce transformation, and change management. Joanna leads high-growth organizations through M&A, cultural transformation, and scalable talent strategies to drive employee engagement and business performance. Her passion lies in enabling the intersection between business and people, and building a culture that drives performance and true brand ambassadorship.

Connect with Joanna on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-kmiec-chrl/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Uncomfortable but Unstoppable: Taking Ownership of Your Career

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:49:33 -0000

Unmuted Podcast - Episode #46
Topic: Uncomfortable but Unstoppable: Taking Ownership of Your Career
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Jade Garrido

In this episode of Unmuted, host Jeff Waldman sits down with Jade Garrido to explore what it truly means to take ownership of your career. They dive into why real growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, making bold moves, and embracing challenges rather than avoiding them.

Jade shares personal experiences of leaning into discomfort, highlighting how those moments became turning points in her career. She also provides actionable advice on how to push past fear, take strategic risks, and create opportunities rather than waiting for them.

They also discuss the role organizations play in fostering environments that empower employees to take ownership of their careers while feeling supported. If you're ready to shift from a passive to an active career mindset, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more career growth conversations!

#podcast #hr #leader #career #leadership #career #humanresources #work

About Jade Garrido
Jade Garrido is Shakepay’s Head of People. This marks her third scaleup in the Toronto market, where she has consistently demonstrated that having the right talent in place is key to driving a company's success.

Jade's journey began at Rose Rocket when the company had fewer than 10 employees, and embodied the dynamic, fast-paced environment of a scrappy startup. During her tenure, she helped scale the organization to over 100 people, guided them through two venture capital funding rounds, and played an essential role in hiring and nurturing internal talent.

In 2022, Jade joined ContactMonkey as their first Senior Director of People. Initially a bootstrapped hidden gem, ContactMonkey quickly pivoted to raise a $55 million Series A and was recognized in the Deloitte Technology Fast 500™ as one of the fastest-growing companies in North America. ContactMonkey is the perfect example of “building the plane while flying it,” a challenge that suited Jade perfectly. She is known for her pragmatic, hands-on approach to building resilient, scalable cultures.

Beyond building talented teams from scratch, Jade has a unique blend of experience scaling organizations from both people and operational perspectives, spanning high-growth bootstrapped ventures, strategic funding, and global expansions.

Jade is passionate about preserving that small-company feel to create highly engaged and connected cultures, believing that people always return to places that feel like home.

Connect with Jade on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-garrido/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Skills-Based Organizations: The Future of Work in an AI World

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:47:39 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #47
Topic: Skills-Based Organizations: The Future of Work in an AI World
Guest: Jonathan Braunstein
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

The future of work isn't just about AI -- it's about skills. Organizations are shifting away from traditional job-based structures toward skills-based models that enable greater agility, workforce mobility, and continuous learning.

In this episode, Jonathan Braunstein joins Jeff Waldman to explore how AI is accelerating this transformation and what it means for employees, leaders, and HR teams.

We explore:

👉 What a skills-based organization is and why the shift is happening now
👉 How AI is changing workforce planning, hiring, and career development
👉 What this means for employee growth and job security
👉 How HR and business leaders can build a future-ready workforce

If you're interested in the future of work, talent strategy, and AI, this episode is packed with practical insights.

About Jonathan Braunstein:

Jonathan Braunstein is an organizational consultant with over 15 years of experience helping organizations transform culture, redesign operating models, and build high-performing teams. He has worked with organizations including Lightspeed, BDC, Genetec, Novartis, RONA, and McGill University, and specializes in organizational design, Agile transformation, and human-centered leadership.

🔗 Connect with Jonathan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-braunstein-m-a-30b32917/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/

#Podcast #HR #Leadership #AI #FutureOfWork #Skills #TalentManagement #HRTech

Building High-Impact Teams - Product Thinking for HR

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:44:44 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #48
Topic: Building High-Impact Teams - Product Thinking for HR
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Selina Miah

In this episode of Unmuted, host Jeff Waldman (ScaleHR) sits down with Selina Miah, Head of People & Culture at Maple, to explore a groundbreaking approach to HR: applying product development principles to building and managing teams.

🔹 A New Way to Think About HR: Traditional HR focuses on policies, compliance, and people management. But what if HR operated more like a product team—using iteration, feedback loops, and scalable design to build high-impact teams?

🔹 Balancing Agility & Scalability: HR leaders face the challenge of creating global teams that are both autonomous and aligned. Just like a great product, should HR strategies evolve, pivot, and adapt?

💡 Key Questions We Cover:
✅ What does it mean to apply product thinking to HR?
✅ How can HR use iteration and feedback loops to continuously improve?
✅ What does a product-driven HR strategy look like in action?
✅ How do you design teams that are both autonomous and aligned with company goals?

Selina shares practical insights and real-world applications of how HR can evolve beyond traditional models—creating high-performing, adaptable teams in today’s fast-changing workplace.

🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on the future of HR, leadership, and work! 🚀

#hr #podcast #leadership #management #humanresources #talent #technology #tech #productmanagement #strategy

About Selina Miah
Selina is a seasoned talent leader, who started her career in recruitment before broadening her expertise into HR, and now heads the People and Culture function at Maple. She has over 15 years of experience, leading talent programs at some of Canada’s top tech companies, including Blackberry, OpenText, Shopify, Hootsuite, Wealthsimple and now Maple. Passionate about shaping dynamic, high-performance cultures, Selina thrives in fast-paced, growth-focused environments where she can strategically impact organizational success through innovative people-first initiatives.

Connect with Selina on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/selinaosib/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Hiring Manager Headaches: Recruiters Overcoming the Biggest Challenges

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 22:02:50 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #49
Topic: Hiring Manager Headaches: How Recruiters Can Overcome the Biggest Challenges
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Hilary Wagner

Recruiters and hiring managers are supposed to be partners in the hiring process. But in reality? Misalignment, unrealistic expectations, and poor communication can turn this relationship into a constant headache.

In this episode of Unmuted Podcast, Jeff Waldman sits down with Hilary Wagner to discuss how recruiters and HR practitioners can turn hiring managers from blockers into allies—and build a more effective, collaborative hiring process.

We cover:
✅ The biggest reasons recruiters struggle with difficult hiring managers—and one simple mindset shift that can make an immediate difference
✅ How to push back when hiring managers set unrealistic expectations about candidates and timelines
✅ Proven strategies to get hiring managers engaged and responsive throughout the hiring process
✅ Why influence, not just patience, is the key to recruiting success

Whether you're an HR leader, recruiter, or hiring manager yourself, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply today.

🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on the future of HR, leadership, and work! 🚀

#Recruiting #HiringManagers #HR #TalentAcquisition #Leadership #Podcast #Talent #Hiring

About Hilary Wagner
Hilary Wagner has a long record of success in leading global talent acquisition, people management, and employer branding in hyper-growth companies. Her knowledge and experience encompass North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC, with expertise in the tech, and health and wellness sectors. She is currently Head of Talent at Flexa and Rare Compute and is also an accomplished speaker, author and LinkedIn advisor.

Connect with Hilary on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilarywagner/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Cultivating Leadership Culture: Values, Alignment and Performance

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 22:01:02 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #50
Topic: Cultivating Leadership Culture: Values, Alignment and Performance
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Nora Beatty

In this milestone 50th episode of Unmuted, host Jeff Waldman sits down with Nora Beatty, VP of People Operations at Cohere, to explore the essential link between leadership, values, and performance.

Leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are countless models out there. But one thing remains true: Leaders set the tone. When leaders truly embody an organization’s values, it creates a ripple effect that drives alignment, engagement, and performance.

In this episode, we tackle some of the biggest questions surrounding leadership culture:
✅ What key traits define great leaders who align with an organization's values?
✅ How can leaders across different teams be unified under a shared leadership culture?
✅ What strategies help reinforce values and behaviors at the leadership level?
✅ How do you measure leadership performance beyond traditional metrics?

Leadership is hard work. But when done right, it becomes the foundation for a thriving organization. Tune in for practical insights on fostering a leadership culture that actually moves the needle.

#leadership #management #hr #culture #workplace #work #humanresources #talent

About Nora Beatty
Nora Beatty is an experienced HR professional currently serving as the VP of People Operations at Cohere since September 2021, previously holding the position of Director of People. Beatty's career spans multiple organizations, including roles as Director of People Operations at Common Wealth and various leadership positions in HR at Xero, Hubdoc, League Inc., FreshBooks, Oracle, and Eloqua. Educational background includes a Master of Arts in Philosophy and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Western University. Beatty's expertise encompasses people operations, human resources management, and recruitment coordination.

Connect with Nora on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-beatty-34b73949/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Conscious Evolution of HR Business Partner to DEI Leader

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:59:20 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #51
Topic: The Conscious Evolution of HRBP to DEI Leader
Host: Jeff Waldman

Guest: Mike DesLauriers

Careers are rarely a straight line, and in this episode, we explore how embracing curiosity, learning, and purpose can lead to unexpected and deeply meaningful professional evolution.

Our guest, Mike DesLauriers, shares his personal and professional journey from HR Business Partner to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leader, offering a real-world lens into what it means to grow with intention and lead with impact.

In this episode, we explore:
✅ How learning the business and building trust can lay the foundation for authentic DEI leadership
✅ The ways recruitment experience can uniquely shape a DEI perspective
✅ What it takes to move from performative DEI efforts to fully integrated, strategic work
✅ Why DEI is not a destination but a continuous evolution
✅ Mike’s personal growth journey and what comes next

This episode is all about conscious evolution - as a professional, as a leader, and as someone committed to driving equity and belonging in the workplace.

🧠 Whether you're an HR leader, DEI practitioner, or someone on your own journey of change, this conversation will resonate.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to evolve with purpose.

#UnmutedPodcast #DEI #HRBP #LeadershipJourney #DiversityEquityInclusion #HRLeadership #CareerGrowth #FutureOfWork #peoplefirstlogistics

About Mike DesLauriers
Mike was born and raised in Ottawa, where he has dedicated his career to championing our city's vibrant talent community. With a deep passion and energy for DEI and ERGs, Mike strives to create inclusive environments where people feel valued and can bring their authentic selves to work. Outside of his professional life, Mike values exploring the world with friends, spending quality time with his family, and trying new restaurants.

Connect with Mike on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-deslauriers-ba387b28/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Why I Hit Record: The Heart Behind the Unmuted Podcast

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:57:10 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #52
Topic: Why I Hit Record: The Heart Behind the Unmuted Podcast

In this special solo episode, I’m flipping the mic to share why I started Unmuted, a podcast all about the real talk happening in HR, HR tech, and the ever-evolving world of work. From day one, my goal was simple: amplify the voices of brilliant HR and recruitment practitioners and leaders who are making a real impact, and dig into the “how”, not just highlight the problems we already know exist. Because let’s face it, it’s easier to point out what’s broken than to build what works. I also threw in some behind-the-scenes fun, including a montage of me nervously asking guests, “Are you ready?” (Spoiler: I never really am, and that’s half the fun.)

If you’ve ever wondered what Unmuted is really about or you’re just in it for the bloopers, this one’s for you.

🎧 Hit play and let’s get real.

#podcast #hr #hrtech #work #humanresources #talent #recruitment #worldofwork #hrtechnology #ai

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Beyond the Paycheque - Rethinking Financial Well-Being at Work

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:54:04 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #53
Topic: Beyond the Paycheque: Rethinking Financial Well-Being at Work
Guest: Antonio Zivanovic – Founder of The ReFrame Group & ElektraFi
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Financial well-being is becoming one of the biggest workplace challenges facing employees today. As housing costs rise, inflation persists, and debt continues to grow, financial stress is affecting productivity, engagement, and overall well-being. Yet many organizations still struggle to provide meaningful support.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman and Antonio Zivanovic explore why financial well-being deserves a larger role in workplace strategy—and what employers can do to help.

We explore:

👉 What employees are really saying about financial stress
👉 Why traditional financial wellness programs often fall short
👉 What modern, practical financial well-being looks like
👉 Cost-effective ways employers can better support their people

Whether you're an HR leader, manager, or executive, this episode offers practical ideas to help employees thrive beyond the paycheque.

About Antonio Zivanovic:
Antonio Zivanovic is the founder of The ReFrame Group and ElektraFi, the world's first total financial well-being platform. Recognized as one of Canada's Elite Insurance Advisors, Antonio is passionate about helping individuals and organizations improve financial well-being through a combination of AI, education, and expert guidance.

🔗 Connect with Antonio: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniozivanovic/
🌐 Learn more about ElektraFi: https://elektrafi.io/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://goscalehr.com/book-a-call/

#Podcast #HR #FinancialWellbeing #Leadership #FutureOfWork #EmployeeWellbeing #HRTech #Talent

Evolving Your EVP: How to Stay Competitive in Changing Markets

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:51:21 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #54
Topic: Evolving Your EVP: How to Stay Competitive in Changing Markets
Host: Jeff Waldman, ScaleHR
Guest: Michelle Brooks, Security Compass

In this episode of the Unmuted podcast, host Jeff Waldman is joined by Michelle Brooks of Security Compass to unpack a critical yet often misunderstood concept: the Employee Value Proposition (EVP). Too many organizations treat their EVP as a static statement, but as Michelle and Jeff discuss, a truly effective EVP must be dynamic, evolving alongside shifting market conditions, workforce expectations, and the competitive landscape.

Jeff kicks things off by reframing the EVP conversation. It’s not just about attracting talent, it’s about retaining them, keeping them engaged, and ensuring your company is resilient in a fast-changing world of work.

Michelle brings deep insight into:
1) What an EVP actually is (and why it matters more than ever)
2) The biggest shifts in employee expectations right now
3) Practical steps for HR leaders to modernize their EVP
4) How AI and technology can support EVP evolution without losing sight of core company values

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refresh your existing EVP, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to stay competitive.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this valuable.

#hr #humanresources #talent #recruiting #hiring #recruitment #evp #employerbranding #

About Michelle Brooks
Michelle is currently the Chief People & Culture Officer at Security Compass, a software security firm in Toronto. Michelle has experience working in a series of progressively senior leadership roles within industry-leading recruitment firms before making the transition to human resources and corporate training in the tech and consulting sectors. Michelle has successfully helped multiple tech companies build for scale by building a strong employer brand and recruitment functions, developing lean people operations that drive the development of talent, and relentlessly focusing on a corporate culture that evolves with scale.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-brooks-1747b924/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

High Performance in a Human-Centred World

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:48:23 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #55
Topic: High Performance in a Human-Centred World
Host: Jeff Waldman, ScaleHR
Topic: Gabrielle Caron, 1Password

🎙️ In this episode of ScaleHR, Unmuted Podcast host Jeff Waldman is joined by Gabrielle Caron, People & Culture leader at 1Password, for a timely and thought-provoking conversation about what high performance really means in today’s complex world of work.

With economic pressures rising and expectations around productivity and efficiency intensifying, leaders are feeling the heat. But this isn’t the same world we lived in five years ago. Burnout, mental health struggles, social unrest, and AI disruption are just some of the forces changing the game. So, how do we lead through both urgency and empathy?

Jeff and Gabrielle dive into:
1) How today’s performance pressures are reshaping leadership and workplace culture
2) How leaders can compete hard while still caring deeply for their teams
What sustainable, high-performance cultures actually look like in practice
3) Why it’s time to redefine performance for the realities of today’s workforce

This episode is packed with strategic insights, practical takeaways, and a human-centred lens on leadership. Whether you're an HR professional, people leader, or executive, this conversation will help you navigate the delicate balance between results and well-being.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this valuable.

#hr #humanresources #talent #leadership #performance #employees #ai #management #futureofwork #productivity

About Gabrielle Caron
Gabrielle Caron is a passionate and driven professional development leader with 15+ years of experience, including over a decade at McKinsey and 3+ years in the tech startup ecosystem. During this time, she has developed a keen expertise in leveraging AI and analytics to drive innovative operational and people practices.

As the VP of Talent, DEIB, and People Insights, Gabrielle excels at building thoughtful people strategies that enable the business to achieve its goals, coaching individuals through their career journeys and collaborating with stakeholders across the business to identify tailored solutions that harness the power of data-driven insights.

Gabrielle is known for her highly skilled coaching and mentoring abilities and builds long-lasting, trusting relationships at all organizational levels. Her creative problem-solving, facilitation, and executive-level communication strengths make her a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the industry.

Gabrielle is committed to fostering inclusive environments where individuals can thrive and achieve their full potential. She is excited to share her insights on the intersection of Talent, AI, analytics, and professional development to inspire others in their journeys.

Connect with Gabrielle on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-caron-5607ab13/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Plane Was in the Air Before We Built It

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:46:18 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #56
Topic: The Plane Was in the Air Before We Built It
Host: Jeff Waldman, ScaleHR
Guest: Elizabeth Pecoraro

🚀 In this powerful episode of the Unmuted Podcast, host Jeff Waldman sits down with Elizabeth Pecoraro to explore what it really looks like to bring a bold idea to life, not in theory, but in real-time, under pressure, and without a perfect plan.

With a clear mission and a fast-approaching deadline, Elizabeth shares her experience of "building the plane while flying it", leading through uncertainty, forming a high-impact team, and staying rooted in purpose when things got messy.

Together, Jeff and Elizabeth unpack:
1) What it means to lead through ambiguity and chaos (and how to stay grounded)
2) The power of small, intentional teams and how to build them
3) How community and shared purpose can unlock unexpected momentum
4) Real leadership lessons from high-stakes, fast-moving environments

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating messy middle moments, launching something new, or trying to lead with courage and clarity when the path isn't clear.

💬 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations at the intersection of leadership, people, and purpose.

#hr #humanresources #talent #leadership #management #futureofwork #strategy #community #podcast

About Elizabeth Pecoraro
Elizabeth Pecoraro is a leader in People, Operations, and Customer Success with over five years of experience helping teams work more thoughtfully and efficiently. Most recently, she led these functions at an AI startup, where she helped embed AI tools into everyday operations, building everything from custom GPTs for customer support to internal workflows that saved time without sacrificing human touch.

Currently, Elizabeth is completing a certificate in accounting while dedicating her energy to community-driven work. As the first volunteer to join Crafted for Courage, a large-scale public art and fundraising initiative, she played a key role in bringing the project to life. The initiative raised over $50,000 for four Montreal-based women’s shelters and transformed the lobby of Place Ville Marie with more than 300 hand-knit and crocheted blankets, made from over 3,000 donated squares from volunteers across Canada.

Whether in professional or volunteer roles, Elizabeth is passionate about making complex ideas actionable, building with care, and creating impact through collaboration.

Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-pecoraro-27a05363/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Smarter Systems: How AI + Automation Are Rebuilding the HR Workflow

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:44:26 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #57
Topic: Smarter Systems: How AI + Automation Are Rebuilding the HR Workflow
Guest: Kristjan Kristjansson – CEO & Co-Founder, 50skills
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR

Episode Overview:
AI and automation are transforming HR, but this isn't just about saving time. It's about redesigning how HR works.

In this episode, Jeff Waldman sits down with Kristjan Kristjansson, CEO of 50skills, to discuss how AI-powered automation is helping HR teams move beyond repetitive tasks to create smarter, connected workflows across the employee lifecycle.

We explore:

👉 Why today's automation goes far beyond checklists and email triggers
👉 How AI is making HR workflows more intelligent and connected
👉 The biggest automation opportunities across the employee lifecycle
👉 The mindset shifts HR teams need to embrace
👉 Practical ways to start using AI and automation without a major overhaul

Whether you're an HR leader, practitioner, or HR tech enthusiast, this episode offers practical ideas for building more efficient, scalable HR operations.

About Kristjan Kristjansson:
Kristjan Kristjansson is CEO & Co-Founder of 50skills. Previously, he helped scale fintech leader Meniga to serve more than 50 million users across 20 countries and has founded multiple startups. He is a recognized speaker on the future of hiring, entrepreneurship, and business models.

🔗 Connect with Kristjan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kfkristjansson/
🌐 Learn more about 50skills: https://www.50skills.com/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #HRTech #Automation #AI #FutureOfWork #HR #HumanResources #AIinHR

From Stage to Strategy: How A Background in Acting Enhances HR Leadership

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:39:57 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #58
Topic: From Stage to Strategy: How a Background in Performing Arts Enhances HR Leadership
Guest: Kate Ryan, 1Password
Host: Jeff Waldman, ScaleHR

In this episode of Unmuted, we explore a surprising yet incredibly relevant connection: the powerful overlap between the performing arts and HR leadership. Our guest, Kate Ryan of 1Password, shares how her background in theatre has shaped her approach to people and culture, from mastering executive presence to staying agile in fast-changing environments.

With empathy, storytelling, and adaptability now central to the role of HR, Kate unpacks how the tools she developed on stage have become invaluable assets in the workplace. She shares practical insights into how performance techniques like improv, voice control, and storytelling can strengthen leadership, coaching, and employee engagement.

Whether you're an HR leader looking for a new edge or just curious how the arts can influence business, this conversation will leave you inspired to think outside the traditional HR playbook.

Topics we cover:
* How theatrical training influences people leadership
* The role of presence, voice, and improvisation in HR
* Storytelling as a tool for trust, culture, and change
* Tips for incorporating arts-based techniques into your own leadership

About Kate Ryan
Kate Ryan is a communicator with a passion for storytelling and a proven track record of building and scaling employer brand and communications functions. At 1Password, she has built and scaled the employer brand, DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging), and HR communications functions, ensuring that the people behind the products have opportunities to tell their stories and consistently feel supported in their roles.

Connect with Kate on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateblairryan/.

About ScaleHR:

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Why Most AI Strategies Fail (and How to Make Yours Succeed)

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:37:19 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #59
Why Most AI Strategies Fail (and How to Make Yours Succeed)
Guest: Limor Markman, Absolute Ascent
Host: Jeff Waldman, ScaleHR

Check out Absolute Ascent's new AI Advancement Training & Workshops for Executives at https://absoluteascent.ai/corporateadvancement

AI is the hottest topic in business right now, but here’s the reality: while adoption is skyrocketing, the number of failed or stalled AI initiatives is climbing just as fast. Too many companies chase the latest tools without a clear purpose, and the result is wasted money, frustrated teams, and strategies that never take off.

In this episode of Unmuted, Jeff sits down with AI strategist Limor Markman to break down why so many AI strategies fail, and what organizations can do differently to succeed.

You’ll learn:
* The most common mistakes companies make when rolling out AI strategies
* Why defining the right problem is the foundation of success
* How culture and change management are just as critical as the tech itself
* The first 3 steps any company should take before signing contracts or buying tools

If your organization is exploring AI or struggling to make it work, this conversation is packed with insights you can put into action right away.

About Limor Markman
Limor Markman is a business success coach and certified AI specialist with a proven track record of empowering entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses to reach the next level. As an early adopter of AI, Limor has used it extensively within her own business and many others, achieving significant revenue, efficiency, and cost Savings.

As the founder of Absolute Ascent, our team guides clients through successful business growth strategies and AI integration, helping them unlock their full potential. Her expertise lies in creating unique offers, streamlining processes, developing automated tools, and ensuring business growth becomes a standard measure of excellence.

A long-time influencer, speaker, trainer, and coach, Limor is also a mother of two sweet girls and became a self-made millionaire in her early thirties. Her insights have been featured in prominent publications such as BNN, Global News, The Globe and Mail, and The Huffington Post. Limor is passionate about sharing her knowledge and helping businesses achieve exponential success through the strategic implementation of AI.

Connect with Limor on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/limormarkman/, and her company, Absolute Ascent at https://absoluteascent.ai/.

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that works with emerging HR, Recruitment and Work technology startups and SMBs to boost their brand awareness and lead generation. Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, is a game-changer that provides customers with a unique content/influencer marketing omnichannel solution that "cuts through the noise".

To contact ScaleHR, please go to https://linkly.link/2BtHI. We always love an awesome chat!

Why Leadership in Tech Can't Stay the Same

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:28:51 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #60

✨ Part 1 of our special 3-part series with Schulich Venture Academy

Topic: Why Leadership in Tech Can't Stay the Same – The Forces Reshaping Leadership
Guest: Cherry Rose Tan – Co-Creator & Executive Education Lead at Schulich Venture Academy
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
The tech industry has changed dramatically over the past decade.

AI, distributed workforces, rapid product cycles, and changing employee expectations have transformed how companies grow and compete. The problem? Leadership hasn't evolved at the same pace. Whether you're a founder, HR leader, or functional leader, yesterday's leadership playbook is no longer enough to scale successfully.

In Part 1 of this special three-part series, Cherry Rose Tan explores the forces reshaping leadership in tech, the challenges organizations face as they grow, and the opportunity to rethink how leaders are developed.

In this episode, we cover:

👉 The biggest forces reshaping leadership in tech today
👉 Why traditional leadership models are struggling to keep pace
👉 Common roadblocks founders and functional leaders face when scaling
👉 How growth challenges differ across HR, product, and marketing leaders
👉 The vision behind the creation of Schulich Venture Academy

If you're leading a startup, scaleup, or high-growth team, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of leadership.

About Cherry Rose Tan:

Cherry Rose Tan is a fifth-generation entrepreneur and Entrepreneur in Residence at the Schulich School of Business. She advises more than 250 startups, teaches MBA entrepreneurship courses, and has helped founders raise over $60 million.

Previously, she founded #REALTALK, North America's largest platform dedicated to entrepreneurial mental health. Cherry is also a best-selling author, global speaker, and board member with Wellspring and the Canadian Mental Health Association.

🔗 Connect with Cherry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherryrosetan/

About Schulich Venture Academy (SVA):
Schulich Venture Academy, powered by Schulich Startups, equips founders and functional leaders with practical skills to scale high-growth companies through certificate programs in Venture Sales, Capital, Finance, Operations, and Talent.

Learn more:

🌐 https://execed.schulich.yorku.ca/schulich-masterclass/
🔗 SVA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105926269
🔗 Schulich Startups: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schulichstartups/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #Leadership #Management #Startups #Scaleups #HR #HumanResources #Talent

The Modern Scaleup Leader: A New Model for Leadership Growth

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:25:03 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #61

✨ Part 2 of our special 3-part series with Schulich Venture Academy
▶️ Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/xUJeNuBWHFY

Topic: The Modern Scaleup Leader: A New Model for Leadership Growth
Guest: Cherry Rose Tan – Co-Creator & Executive Education Lead at Schulich Venture Academy
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Scaling a company is one thing. Scaling its leaders is another.

In Part 2 of our three-part series with Schulich Venture Academy, we explore why the skills that make someone successful in a startup don't always translate to success in a scaleup, and what modern leadership looks like in today's rapidly evolving business environment.

Cherry Rose Tan shares practical insights on:

👉 The essential skills every modern scaleup leader needs, regardless of function
👉 Why traditional leadership development often falls short
👉 How experiential learning, cross-functional exposure, and peer learning prepare leaders for growth
👉 How Schulich Venture Academy is redefining leadership development for Canada's startup and scaleup ecosystem

Whether you're a founder, HR leader, or functional leader, this episode offers practical ideas for leading through growth and change.

About Cherry Rose Tan
Cherry Rose Tan is a fifth-generation entrepreneur and Entrepreneur in Residence at the Schulich School of Business. She advises more than 250 startups, teaches MBA entrepreneurship courses, and has helped founders raise over $60 million.

Previously, she founded #REALTALK, North America's largest platform focused on entrepreneurial mental health. Cherry is also a best-selling author, global speaker, and board member with Wellspring and the Canadian Mental Health Association.

🔗 Connect with Cherry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherryrosetan/

About Schulich Venture Academy (SVA)

Schulich Venture Academy, powered by Schulich Startups, equips founders and functional leaders with practical skills to grow and scale companies through certificate programs in Venture Sales, Capital, Finance, Operations, and Talent.

Learn more:
🌐 https://execed.schulich.yorku.ca/schulich-masterclass/
🔗 SVA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105926269
🔗 Schulich Startups: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schulichstartups/

About ScaleHR:

📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#podcast #leadership #management #startups #scaleups #hr #humanresources #talent

Beyond Perks: Redefining Engagement for Today’s Workforce

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:36:14 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #62
✨ Beyond Perks: Redefining Engagement for Today’s Workforce

Topic: Beyond Perks – Redefining Engagement for Today’s Workforce
Guest: Agata Zasada – Chief People Officer at ZayZoon
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Employee engagement has evolved. For years, organizations measured engagement through turnover, retention, bonuses, and workplace perks. But today's workforce expects something more meaningful. Engagement is no longer about ping pong tables and free snacks. It's about purpose, flexibility, growth, and creating an employee experience people genuinely want to be part of.

In this episode, Agata Zasada shares practical insights on how organizations can rethink engagement for today's workforce.

We Explore:

👉 How employee expectations have evolved
👉 Why purpose matters more than perks
👉 Practical ways HR can adapt to today's workforce
👉 Actions leaders can take immediately to improve engagement

If you're an HR leader, manager, or executive looking to build a more engaged workforce, this episode is full of practical ideas you can implement today.

About Agata Zasada:

Agata Zasada (MBA, CPHR) is Chief People Officer at ZayZoon, where she leads people strategy and culture for one of Canada's fastest-growing fintech companies. Previously, she held executive HR leadership roles at Paystone and Bananatag, helping both organizations scale through periods of rapid growth and transformation. With nearly 20 years of HR leadership experience, Agata specializes in culture, leadership, and organizational strategy. In 2024, she was recognized as one of Canada's Most Admired Chief People and Culture Officers.

🔗 Connect with Agata: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agatazasada/

About ScaleHR:

The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), helping emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech companies grow through Catalyst, our community-driven content, influencer marketing, and omnichannel marketing solution.

📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #Leadership #HR #EmployeeEngagement #PeopleAndCulture #FutureOfWork #HRTech #Talent

Transformation in Practice: Scaleup Leadership In Action

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:32:10 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #63

✨ Part 3 of our special 3-part series with Schulich Venture Academy
▶️ Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/xUJeNuBWHFY
▶️ Watch Part 2: https://youtu.be/JiG38HrUNc8

Topic: Transformation in Practice – Scaleup Leadership in Action
Guest: Jenny do Forno – Chief People Officer at TouchBistro & Program Director, Venture Talent at Schulich Venture Academy
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

Talking about leadership is one thing. Seeing it in action is another.

In this final episode of our three-part series with Schulich Venture Academy, Jenny do Forno shares practical lessons from leading high-growth startups, venture-backed companies, and scaling organizations.

Drawing on her experience as both an executive and educator, Jenny discusses:

👉 How her leadership style evolved across startups, venture capital, and scaleups
👉 Key lessons learned from scaling people and organizations
👉 How Schulich Venture Academy's experiential, peer-to-peer learning model prepares leaders for real-world challenges
👉 Practical actions founders, HR leaders, and functional leaders can take to strengthen their leadership today

If you're growing a company, or growing as a leader, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately.

About Jenny do Forno:

Jenny do Forno is Chief People Officer at TouchBistro and Program Director of Venture Talent at Schulich Venture Academy. With nearly 25 years of experience, she has helped startups and scaleups grow from founding teams to organizations of more than 1,500 employees.

Previously, Jenny was Partner, Talent at OMERS Ventures, where she supported more than 90 portfolio companies worldwide on people strategy. She has guided organizations through fundraising, rapid growth, M&A, and successful exits.

🔗 Connect with Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennydoforno/

About Schulich Venture Academy (SVA):

Schulich Venture Academy, powered by Schulich Startups, equips founders and functional leaders with practical skills to scale high-growth companies through certificate programs in Venture Sales, Capital, Finance, Operations, and Talent.

About ScaleHR:

📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #Leadership #Management #Startups #Scaleups #HR #HumanResources #Talent

Empathy Without Absorption: How HR Can Stop Being the Office Therapist

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:28:51 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #64
Topic: Empathy Without Absorption: How HR Can Stop Being the Office Therapist
Guest: Christine Vigna - Chief People Officer at Dejero
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemvigna/
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview
HR professionals play a unique role inside organizations. They’re often the first line of support when employees are stressed, overwhelmed, or facing difficult personal and professional challenges. Offering empathy is part of the job, but the emotional weight that comes with it often goes unnoticed and unaddressed.

This has created a growing trend in the HR profession:
⚠️ Burnout
⚠️ Compassion fatigue
⚠️ HR leaders are questioning whether they want to stay in the field

In this episode, Christine Vigna joins us to talk openly about the emotional realities of HR and the urgent need to redefine what support looks like. Because while empathy is essential, HR cannot, and should not, absorb the emotional load of an entire organization.

We discuss:
Where the pressure on HR to act as “organizational therapists” really comes from. What healthy, sustainable empathy looks like. How HR professionals can set boundaries without abandoning employees. How leaders and culture influence, and often exacerbate HR’s emotional burden

👉 If you’re an HR professional feeling stretched thin, or a leader who wants to better support the people who support everyone else, this episode is a must-watch.

About Christine Vigna
Christine Vigna is an experienced People & Culture executive with over two decades of experience across technology, regulatory, and not-for-profit sectors. She currently serves as Chief People Officer at Dejero, a Canadian technology company, where she leads global People & Culture strategy, technical customer support, and continuous improvement programs. Alongside her corporate role, Christine has contributed 15 years of service on not-for-profit boards, bringing a thoughtful approach to governance and organizational development. She is committed to helping organizations and leaders thrive through purposeful culture, clear strategy, and effective leadership.

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our flagship solution, Catalyst, blends influencer marketing, content strategy, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

A brand-new ScaleHR website is launching in fall 2025.
📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #HR #Leadership #Burnout #PeopleAndCulture #FutureOfWork #HumanResources #EmployeeExperience #UnmutedPodcast

Feedback Obsession: The Secret Weapon for Fast-Track Career Growth

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:26:51 -0000

Topic: Feedback Obsession – Why Treating Feedback as Fuel Can Transform Your Career
Guest: Stefano Grossi – CEO at Branco.ai
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stesx/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview
Everyone wants career growth -- promotions, stretch roles, bigger opportunities -- but most people wait for growth to happen instead of actively creating it.

The truth? Growth is not magic. It’s iteration. And nothing accelerates that process faster than developing a healthy obsession with feedback.

In this episode, Stefano Grossi, CEO of Branco.ai and former product/technology leader at two Canadian unicorns, shares why feedback is one of the most underrated (and underused) career superpowers.

We explore:
* Why feedback is the fastest lever for real career acceleration
* What stops people from asking for it, and how to overcome the fear
* How to build a repeatable feedback habit that actually sticks
* How to turn feedback into an action plan instead of a moment of discomfort

👉 Whether you’re early in your career or an experienced leader, this episode will help you rethink your relationship with feedback and unlock a new approach to professional growth.

About Stefano Grossi
Stefano is the CEO of Branco.ai, a platform designed to help people accelerate their growth through structured feedback and reflection. Previously, he served as Chief Product & Technology Officer at FreshBooks and Head of Development at SOTI, two of Canada’s unicorn tech companies.

Beyond tech leadership, Stefano is:
🔥 A passionate advocate for professional growth
🔥 A firefighter, EMT, rescue diver, and ski coach
🔥 A partner and father of three

He brings a unique mix of operational rigour, human insight, and adventure-driven perspective to everything he does.

🔗 Explore more from Stefano:
Branco.ai → https://branco.ai/
Branco.ai Blog → https://branco.ai/blog
Stefano on Medium → https://medium.com/@stesx51

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our flagship solution, Catalyst, blends influencer marketing, content strategy, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

A brand-new ScaleHR website is launching in fall 2025.
📩 Connect with us: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #HR #Leadership #Career #Feedback #PeopleAndCulture #FutureOfWork #HumanResources #EmployeeExperience #UnmutedPodcast

From Resistance to Readiness: Building Digital Confidence in HR Teams

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:25:07 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #66

Topic: From Resistance to Readiness: Building Digital Confidence in HR Teams
Guest: Mindy Honcoop – Founder & HR Strategic Advisor at Agile in HR
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyhoncoop/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:

HR teams are being flooded with new digital tools, automation, dashboards, and AI. While technology is evolving rapidly, adoption often isn't. Many HR professionals feel overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or worried they're falling behind. But the biggest barrier isn't technology, it's people.

Resistance is often driven by fear, self-doubt, or feeling left out of the transformation process. Until organizations address the human side of change, HR teams will struggle to confidently lead digital transformation.

In this episode, Mindy Honcoop shares practical strategies to help HR move from resistance to readiness.

We explore:

👉 What digital resistance in HR really looks like
👉 Why HR and IT often struggle to align on technology adoption
👉 Practical ways to build digital literacy and confidence
👉 How leaders can turn fear into momentum
👉 A real-world example of successful digital transformation

If you're leading HR through change, or navigating it yourself, this episode offers practical guidance for building confidence in an increasingly digital workplace.

About Mindy Honcoop:

Mindy Honcoop is the Founder of Agile in HR and a seasoned HR executive with more than 24 years of experience helping organizations build agile, human-centered workplaces. She has held leadership roles at Care.com, Expedia, Spiceworks Ziff Davis, and TCP Software, and advises HR technology companies on product strategy and innovation.

A recognized author and speaker, Mindy regularly shares insights on Agile HR, Human-Centered Design, digital transformation, and AI readiness. She also serves on the board of Love Justice International and helped revive the DisruptHR Austin community.

About ScaleHR:

📩 Learn more: https://linkly.link/2BtHI

#Podcast #HR #Leadership #FutureOfWork #PeopleAndCulture #HRTech #ChangeManagement

From Overwhelm to Overflow: The Neuroscience of Better Leadership

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:18:57 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #67
Topic: From Overwhelm to Overflow - The Neuroscience of Better Leadership
Guest: Rebecca Bitton – Founder & CEO at Be and Become Consulting
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbitton/
Guest Website: https://www.beandbecomeconsulting.ca/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview
Most leaders today are operating in a near-constant state of overwhelm. Emails, Slack messages, meetings, decisions, and nonstop problem-solving keep the brain stuck in survival mode. And when overwhelm becomes the default, it doesn’t just hurt productivity, it fundamentally changes how leaders think, react, and show up for their teams.

In this episode, we explore why that happens and, more importantly, how leaders can break the cycle.

What’s fascinating is that sustainable leadership change doesn’t start with new tools, habits, or frameworks. It starts inside the brain. Through neuroscience-informed practices, leaders can rewire stress patterns, move out of survival mode, and step into clarity, creativity, and what our guest calls “overflow.”

Our conversation with Rebecca Bitton dives into:
👉 What’s actually happening in the brain when leaders are stuck in overwhelm
👉 Why survival mode keeps leaders reactive and depleted
👉 What “overflow” looks like in practice, and why it’s such a powerful leadership state
👉 How inside-out transformation creates sustainable change in day-to-day leadership
👉 1-3 practical actions leaders can take this week to build clarity, calm, and impact
👉 Real-world stories that bring this neuroscience-backed approach to life

If you’re a leader feeling stretched thin, or supporting leaders who are, this episode offers a refreshing, science-backed perspective on how to lead with intention, resilience, and lasting impact.

About Rebecca Bitton
Rebecca Bitton is the Founder & CEO of Be and Become Consulting, a corporate wellness strategist, speaker, and educator helping organizations build resilient, change-proof cultures. Her work replaces burnout and perfectionism with purpose-driven performance, without sacrificing well-being.

A former President of Hope + Me’s Peer Talk speaker’s bureau, Rebecca has spoken for organizations including OPSEU, Sunnybrook Hospital, and the Schulich School of Business. Drawing from her lived experience overcoming burnout and bipolar disorder, she blends neuroscience, storytelling, and practical tools to help leaders and HR teams create workplaces where well-being and high performance thrive together.

📩 Contact Rebecca: rebecca@bbconsulting.biz
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbitton/

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/
), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

The Truth Behind the Call: Why Reference Checks Still Matter in 2026

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:17:11 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #68
Topic: The Truth Behind the Call: Why Reference Checks Still Matter in 2026
Guest: James Lord – Director at Refapp
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswlord/
Guest Website: https://www.refapp.com/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Hiring in 2026 is packed with AI tools, automated screening, skills assessments, and data dashboards. But amid all that technology, one thing hasn’t changed:

People still work with people.

Reference checks remain one of the few truly human-powered ways to understand how someone actually shows up at work, not their résumé version, not their interview persona, but their real patterns, habits, and impact on others.

The problem isn’t reference checks themselves.
The problem is how most organizations do them.

Rushed calls. Generic questions. Checkbox exercises designed to confirm what we already believe. When done this way, reference checks add little value. But when done properly, they can uncover red flags, validate strengths, and significantly reduce hiring risk.

In this episode, James Lord joins us to break down why reference checks still matter and how to do them right in a modern hiring environment.

We explore:
👉 Why reference checks remain critical in an AI-driven hiring landscape
👉 What reference checks reveal that interviews, assessments, and automation often miss
👉 Where most companies go wrong with their reference-checking process
👉 What a high-value, well-designed reference check actually looks like
👉 Real examples where reference checks meaningfully changed hiring decisions, for better or worse

If you’re hiring in 2026 and relying solely on automation, this episode is a timely reminder that some of the most important insights still come from real conversations with real people.

About James Lord:
James Lord, originally from the UK, based in Canada for the last 8 years, has a career in HRTech and WorkTech startups & scale-ups across 4 continents. He has a proven track record of building from zero and scaling globally. Loves creating transformative change and streamlining processes for his clients. Outside of work, you’ll find him running, in the gym, hiking mountains, riding motorbikes, or jetting off to new destinations.

📩 Contact James: james.lord@refapp.com
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswlord/

About ScaleHR
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Employer Brand Is a System: How Technology Shapes the Experience

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:15:31 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #69
Topic: Employer Brand Is a System: How Technology Shapes the Experience
Guest: Phill Strazzulla – Founder at SelectSoftware Reviews
Guest Website: https://www.selectsoftwarereviews.com/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

🔎 Need help finding the right HR software?

SelectSoftware Reviews (SSR) Advisors will match you with 2-3 vetted vendors that meet your needs, for free.

🎁 Bonus: If you book a call using the link below, you’ll receive a $50 gift card once you’ve met your match.

👉 Book a free advisor call by clicking here.

Episode Overview:
Employer brand isn’t what companies say anymore. It’s what people experience. For years, employer brand was treated like a marketing exercise -- EVP statements, careers page copy, social posts. But today, candidates and employees experience your brand through systems:

How easy it is to apply.
How respectful the hiring process feels.
How onboarding works.
How modern, or broken, your tools are.

Whether HR intends it or not, the HR tech stack has become the infrastructure of employer brand. Every workflow, handoff, delay, and interaction either reinforces trust or quietly undermines it.

In this episode, Phill Strazzulla joins us to unpack how HR technology shapes real candidate and employee experience and what HR leaders need to think about differently if they want their employer brand to actually show up in practice.

We explore:
👉 Where HR technology most often strengthens employer brand, and where it quietly breaks down
👉 The biggest disconnects between how companies think candidates experience their brand vs. reality
👉 What HR teams should be asking when buying technology if they want to reinforce trust, not just efficiency
👉 How to think about employer brand as a system, not a message
👉 One key takeaway every HR leader should remember when designing or scaling their tech stack

If you care about candidate experience, trust, and credibility, this episode will fundamentally change how you think about HR technology decisions.

About Phill Strazzulla:
Phil Stazzulla is the Founder and Head of People at SelectSoftware Reviews, a platform used by over 10,000 HR teams a month to find the right software for their business through in-depth research and expert advice. Previously, Phil was a fractional HR consultant, where his biggest claim to fame was helping a team scale from 300 to 3,000 employees in 14 months. Phil is a Boston-based father of two amazing toddlers, a sci-fi nerd, and totally obsessed with HR technology.

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

From Listening to Recognition: How AI Will Shape Engagement in 2026

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:07:32 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #70
Topic: From Listening to Recognition: How AI Will Shape Engagement in 2026
Guest: Rob Catalano – Chief Engagement Officer & Co-Founder at WorkTango
Guest Website: https://www.worktango.com/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Employee engagement is evolving. For years, organizations treated employee listening and recognition as separate initiatives. Surveys lived on one side. Recognition programs lived on the other.

But heading into 2026, that separation no longer makes sense. Engagement is becoming a continuous loop where listening, insight, action, and recognition are deeply connected.

And what’s accelerating that shift? AI.
Not as a replacement for human judgment, but as an amplifier.

AI is helping HR teams:
• Make sense of massive volumes of employee feedback
• Identify patterns earlier
• Personalize recognition at scale
• Close the gap between what employees say and what organizations actually do

In this episode, Rob Catalano joins us to unpack how AI is reshaping employee engagement and what HR leaders need to rethink now if they want to stay ahead.

We explore:
👉 Why listening and recognition can no longer operate as siloed initiatives
👉 How AI changes the equation for engagement strategy
👉 What smarter, continuous listening really looks like in practice
👉 How AI can help close the action gap between insight and impact
👉 What HR leaders should start doing today to prepare for 2026

If you're responsible for employee engagement, culture, or performance, this conversation will challenge how you think about listening, recognition, and the future of employee experience.

About Rob Catalano:
Rob Catalano is the Chief Engagement Officer and Co-Founder of WorkTango, an award-winning Employee Experience platform helping organizations improve engagement, increase retention, and boost performance through employee surveys and recognition & rewards software.

About WorkTango:
WorkTango is an Employee Experience platform that helps leaders improve engagement, increase retention, and boost performance while reducing costs through integrated Employee Surveys and Recognition & Rewards solutions.

Learn more:
👉 https://www.worktango.com/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #EmployeeEngagement #HRTech #AI #FutureOfWork #Recognition #EmployeeExperience #PeopleAndCulture #UnmutedPodcast

Low Turnover as a Warning Sign: Retention in an Uncertain Job Market

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:04:02 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #71
Topic: When Low Turnover Is a Warning Sign: Rethinking Retention in an Uncertain Job Market
Guest: Jocelyne Beaulieu - Head of People & Operations at Koru
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
For years, HR leaders have treated low turnover as a sign of organizational health. If people were staying, it meant the culture was strong, engagement was high, and leadership was doing something right. But today’s job market is different.

With AI disruption, economic uncertainty, layoffs, and global pressures like tariffs, employees may not always stay because they’re thriving. In many cases, they’re staying because they’re cautious.

Welcome to the Retention Paradox.

Low turnover may no longer mean stability. In some organizations, it may actually signal fear, stagnation, or disengagement hiding beneath the surface.

In this episode, Jocelyne Beaulieu joins us to explore why traditional retention metrics are becoming less reliable, how macroeconomic uncertainty is shaping employee behaviour, and what HR leaders should start measuring instead.

We explore:
👉 Why low turnover is no longer a reliable indicator of organizational health
👉 How AI disruption, layoffs, and economic uncertainty are changing employee decision-making
👉 The hidden risks of mistaking stagnation for stability
👉 What signals HR leaders should be paying closer attention to beyond retention
👉 Practical ways organizations can rethink how they interpret retention data

If you’re an HR leader, founder, or executive trying to make sense of workforce dynamics in an unpredictable market, this conversation will challenge how you interpret one of HR’s most commonly used metrics.

About Jocelyne Beaulieu:
With over 15 years of experience in people-centred leadership roles, Jocelyne Beaulieu has built her career partnering with founders and business leaders across multiple industries and geographies. Her work focuses on building and shaping people practices that create high-impact employee experiences from end-to-end, helping organizations scale while maintaining strong cultures and engaged teams.

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #HR #Retention #EmployeeEngagement #FutureOfWork #Leadership #HRTech #PeopleAndCulture #UnmutedPodcast

High Performance Isn’t Rocket Science: It’s Discipline

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:57:37 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #72
Topic: High Performance Isn’t Rocket Science: It’s Discipline
Guest: Amber Madison – Founder at Merritt
Guest Website: https://www.merritt.app/

Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Most organizations say they want high performance. But if you look closely at the systems supporting that goal, the story often looks very different. Expectations are vague. Feedback is inconsistent. Performance reviews feel disconnected from day-to-day work.

The result?
Managers struggle to know what “good” looks like. Employees feel unclear about priorities. And performance conversations become reactive instead of intentional.

In reality, high performance isn’t driven by talent or motivation alone. It’s designed. High-performing organizations don’t rely on exceptional managers to carry the load. They build clear systems and the discipline to consistently follow them, so expectations, feedback, and performance reviews reinforce each other instead of operating in silos.

In this episode, Amber Madison joins us to explore why performance management breaks down in so many organizations, and what HR leaders can do to design systems that actually support high performance.

We explore:
👉 Why vague expectations are often the root cause of poor performance management
👉 What effective expectations look like in practice and how organizations get them wrong
👉 Why feedback often fails to reinforce expectations and how to fix the breakdown
👉 The real challenge of manager enablement — and what systems actually help managers succeed
👉 How to design performance reviews that feel fair, aligned, and grounded in real work

If you’re an HR leader, manager, or executive responsible for building high-performing teams, this conversation offers a practical reframe on how performance systems should actually work.

About Amber Madison:
Amber Madison is the founder of Merritt, a platform built for organizations that prioritize continuous feedback over traditional annual reviews. Before launching Merritt, Amber spent over a decade running Peoplism, a DEI and HR consulting firm that helped more than 100 organizations improve performance management and workplace systems.

About Merritt:
Merritt is a performance platform designed for organizations that prioritize continuous feedback over annual reviews. The AI-native platform helps managers build high-performance habits by:
• Helping managers set clear expectations
• Driving high-quality, continuous feedback
• Creating focused 1:1 agendas for meaningful conversations
• Automatically drafting high-quality performance reviews

By connecting expectations, feedback, and reviews, Merritt makes it easier for managers to manage well and for organizations to build sustainable high performance.

Learn more: https://www.merritt.app/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Hybrid Work Isn’t About Flexibility. It’s About Intelligence

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:55:49 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #73
Topic: Hybrid Work Isn’t About Flexibility. It’s About Intelligence
Guest: Arnaud Mardegan -- Operations Leader, Former Head of Operations at Othership
Guest Website: https://othership.com/
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Hybrid work was supposed to solve everything. More flexibility. Better work-life balance. Stronger collaboration. But for many organizations, the reality looks very different.

Empty offices on some days. Overcrowded offices on others. Teams are misaligned on when and why they should come in. Leaders are making decisions based on assumptions instead of data. In short, hybrid work isn’t failing because of flexibility. It’s failing because of a lack of intelligence.

In this episode, Arnaud Mardegan joins us to explore why hybrid work needs to evolve from policy-driven decisions to operational intelligence, and what organizations need to rethink if they want hybrid work to actually work.

We explore:
👉 Why flexibility alone doesn’t solve coordination, culture, or performance
👉 The real challenges organizations are facing with hybrid work today
👉 What “workplace intelligence” actually means in practice
👉 How leaders can move from guessing to making data-informed decisions
👉 What intelligent hybrid work looks like with real-world examples
👉 Where most organizations get hybrid work wrong, and how to fix it

If you're navigating hybrid work, workplace strategy, or employee experience, this conversation offers a practical and thoughtful reframe on how organizations should approach hybrid work moving forward.

About Arnaud Mardegan:
Arnaud Mardegan is an operations leader with over 10 years of experience across consulting and startups. He was a founding team member and Head of Operations at Othership, where he helped scale the business across multiple countries before its acquisition by Zenatech Inc.

About Othership:
Othership is a cloud-based workplace intelligence platform that uses data-driven insights to help organizations optimize workspaces, reduce real estate spend, eliminate capital waste, and increase employee engagement. The platform provides executives and HR leaders with access to 30,000+ workspaces worldwide, as well as clear visibility into their existing space utilization, workforce deployment, and operational performance to inform strategic decision-making. Othership supports smarter planning, improved sustainability, and enhanced workplace culture, aligning corporate goals and employee needs.

Learn more at https://othership.com/workplace-intelligence/?utm_source=jeff&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=workplace_intelligence.

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #HybridWork #FutureOfWork #HR #WorkplaceIntelligence #EmployeeExperience #WorkplaceStrategy #HRTech #hrtechnology

How to Be the Strategic HR Partner Your CEO Actually Listens To

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:52:24 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #74
Topic: How to Be the Strategic HR Partner Your CEO Actually Listens To
Guest: Lianne Vineberg - Founder at T6 Talent Partners
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Every HR leader wants a seat at the table. But many find themselves stuck in execution mode, handling hiring, policies, and day-to-day issues, while struggling to be seen as a true strategic partner.

Why? Because there’s often a gap between what HR thinks being strategic means… and what CEOs actually expect. CEOs aren’t looking for more updates. They’re looking for clarity, insight, and business impact.

In this episode, Lianne Vineberg joins us to unpack what it really takes for HR leaders to bridge that gap, and how to communicate in a way that actually resonates with executive leadership.

We explore:
👉 What CEOs really expect from their HR leaders, and what makes them take HR seriously as a strategic partner
👉 Why so many HR leaders get stuck in reactive, tactical work (and how to shift out of it)
👉 How to translate people challenges into business language -- revenue, risk, scalability, and growth
👉 The habits and skills that help HR leaders influence decision-making at the highest level
👉 Real-world examples of HR leaders transforming their relationship with the CEO

If you’re an HR leader looking to elevate your impact, strengthen your influence, and truly partner with the business, this episode offers a practical roadmap for making that shift.

About Lianne Vineberg:
As the Founder of T6 Talent Partners, Lianne leads talent strategy and execution across a broad spectrum of services, partnering with organizations to drive talent alignment, enhance leadership capabilities, and optimize hiring processes, ensuring that every aspect of talent management supports overall business objectives.

Lianne is driven by the belief that diverse perspectives, clear communication, and empowered individuals are the foundation of successful teams. Her approach blends strategic insight with hands-on partnership to help companies build cultures that scale -- ones that balance employee needs with business outcomes.

With T6 Talent Partners, Lianne is cutting through the noise to focus on what really drives success: top talent, strong leadership, and values-driven cultures. She’s on a mission to help Canada’s most ambitious companies unlock their full potential.

📩 Email Lianne at lianne@t6talent.com
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vineberg/
🔗 T6 Talent Partners website: https://www.t6talent.com/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #HR #Leadership #StrategicHR #PeopleAndCulture #FutureOfWork #HRTech #UnmutedPodcast

From Roster to Org Chart - Lessons Leaders Can Learn from Pro Sports

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:42:20 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #75
Topic: From Roster to Org Chart - Lessons Leaders Can Learn from Pro Sports
Guest: Maria Vilshanski - Founder & CEO at Silo-In
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvilshanski/
Guest Website: https://silo-in.com/
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
What if organizations managed talent more like professional sports teams?
In pro sports, talent isn’t static. Athletes are continuously assessed, coached, developed, and redeployed based on performance, readiness, and fit, not simply job title, tenure, or where they happen to sit on an org chart.

Now compare that to many organizations today. Employees are often boxed into roles. Opportunities move slowly. Talent reviews happen once a year. Potential can remain hidden in plain sight. And perhaps the biggest difference of all? Sports teams see failing to develop or redeploy talent as a major risk. Many companies still don’t.

In this episode, Maria Vilshanski joins us to explore what leaders can learn from a pro-sports approach to workforce strategy, and how applying that lens can completely reshape how organizations think about visibility, readiness, mobility, and talent decisions.

We explore:
👉 The biggest difference between how pro sports teams manage talent vs. most companies
👉 Why annual reviews often miss what continuous assessment can reveal
👉 How organizations can improve visibility into who is ready now, and who is developing for the future
👉 How to create opportunity without creating pressure or burnout
👉 1-3 practical ways leaders can start managing talent more dynamically today

If you’re a founder, executive, HR leader, or manager trying to build stronger teams and smarter talent systems, this episode offers a fresh and highly practical perspective.

About Maria Vilshanski:
Maria Vilshanski is the Founder & CEO of Silo-In, a workforce intelligence platform built for the construction industry. She has built and led products across construction, engineering, and manufacturing, bringing a pro-sports mindset to talent strategy. Through AI-powered roles like the Coach, the Scout, and the Sports Agent, Silo-In helps companies gain visibility into their workforce, develop internal talent, and make smarter, data-driven people decisions.

🔗 Connect with Maria: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvilshanski/
🌐 Learn more: https://silo-in.com/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company that supports emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.
Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #Leadership #TalentManagement #WorkforcePlanning #HR #FutureOfWork #PeopleAndCulture #UnmutedPodcast

Why We Built Orbi: What HR Actually Needs From AI

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:40:21 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #76 (Special Episode)

Topic: Why We Built Orbi: What HR Actually Needs From AI
Guest: Limor Markman – AI Strategist & Co-Creator of Orbi
Host: Jeff Waldman – HR Tech Evangelist & Co-Creator of Orbi

Episode Overview

This is a Special Episode of the Unmuted Podcast, where we explore important launches, innovations, and major shifts shaping HR, leadership, and technology.

This episode is about something we've been quietly building: Orbi.

AI is advancing rapidly, but many HR leaders still find themselves caught between curiosity and confidence. They know AI matters, they're experimenting with it, but they're also asking:

👉 Am I using AI effectively?
👉 Can I trust the output?
👉 Do I have time to learn another tool?
👉 How do I apply AI to real HR situations where nuance matters?

Over the past year, Jeff Waldman and Limor Markman listened closely to the HR community. Those conversations revealed a clear need for an AI assistant built specifically for HR, and ultimately inspired the creation of Orbi.

In this episode, Jeff and Limor discuss the biggest gaps in today's AI experience for HR professionals and why purpose-built AI matters.

We explore:

👉 Why curiosity about AI is growing faster than confidence
👉 The prompting challenges that hold HR teams back
👉 Why HR professionals need simplicity, speed, and collaboration, not more complexity
👉 How AI can reduce isolation by becoming a trusted thought partner
👉 Why AI should enhance human judgment, not replace it
👉 The story behind the creation of Orbi

If you work in HR and want practical, trustworthy AI support, this episode is for you.

🌟 What Is Orbi?

Orbi is a ChatGPT-powered AI assistant built specifically for HR leaders, practitioners, and teams.

It helps HR professionals work with:

✅ Greater confidence
✅ Faster, higher-quality outputs
✅ Better collaboration
✅ Smarter support for complex people decisions
✅ A trusted 24/7 HR thought partner

Unlike generic AI tools, Orbi was built around the real-world challenges HR teams face every day.

🔗 Learn more about Orbi: https://www.goscalehr.com/orbi

About Limor Markman

Limor Markman is an AI strategist who helps organizations apply artificial intelligence in practical, high-impact ways. As Co-Creator of Orbi, she is passionate about building AI that empowers HR professionals with intuitive, reliable support.

About ScaleHR

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for future Unmuted Podcast episodes.

#Podcast #AI #HR #FutureOfWork #HRTech #Leadership #ChatGPT #PeopleAndCulture #Orbi

Why the Old HR Playbook is Dead: Managing Talent Like an Asset, Not a Cost

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:37:15 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #77
Topic: Why the Old HR Playbook Is Dead: Managing Talent Like an Asset, Not a Cost
Guests: Daneal Charney & Konstantin Tskhay

Important Guest Links:
🌐 Canadian Talent Benchmarking Study: https://tapnetwork.ca/industry-data/canadian-talent-benchmarking-study/
🔗 Konstantin Tskhay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konstantintskhay
🔗 Daneal Charney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danealcharney/

Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview

For decades, HR leaders have been challenged to become more strategic and commercially minded. Yet many organizations still view HR primarily as a support function rather than a driver of business value.

Today, the pressure is different.

AI is reshaping work. Budgets are tighter. Executive teams are demanding better answers about productivity, workforce value, and return on talent investment. The traditional HR playbook is no longer enough.

In this episode, Daneal Charney and Konstantin Tskhay discuss new research that challenges conventional thinking: "What if organizations managed talent like a strategic asset instead of simply a cost?"

Together, we explore:

👉 Why headcount, compensation, and turnover metrics alone no longer tell the full story
👉 What the Canadian Talent Benchmarking Study reveals about workforce value and organizational performance
👉 Why HR has struggled to adopt an asset-based mindset
👉 Why AI, tighter capital markets, and productivity pressures make this shift more urgent than ever
👉 Practical actions CEOs, CHROs, and HR leaders can take to modernize talent strategy and ROI

If you're an HR leader, founder, executive, or people manager looking to rethink how your organization creates value through talent, this episode offers practical insights backed by new research.

About Daneal Charney

Daneal Charney is the Founder of FIVEX and a leadership advisor who has helped hundreds of high-growth technology companies scale their people, leadership, and performance. Formerly Executive in Residence at MaRS, she has also held leadership roles with Intel, Aviva, NexJ Systems, and Muse.

About Konstantin Tskhay

Konstantin Tskhay, Ph.D., is the Managing Partner at Tskhay & Associates, helping organizations improve people analytics, organizational effectiveness, and operational discipline. He previously held leadership roles at Top Hat and Deloitte and teaches People Analytics at Toronto Metropolitan University.

About ScaleHR

📩 Learn more: https://www.goscalehr.com/

Preventive Health at Work: How Employers Can Help People Get Care Earlier - Jacob Batist

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:47:24 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #78
Topic: Preventive Health at Work: How Employers Can Help People Get Care Earlier Without Giving HR More to Manage
Guest: Jacob Batist - Growth & Marketing Leader at Alan Canada
Host: Jeff Waldman - Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Most organizations still approach employee health reactively. Burnout happens. A leave begins. Claims costs rise. Someone struggles to access support. And only then does the system respond. But by that point, the issue is often bigger, more expensive, and harder to manage, both for employees and for already-stretched HR teams.

In today’s environment, the old model is no longer enough. Preventive health at work isn’t about adding another wellness app, launching another awareness month, or giving HR another program to administer. It’s about making it easier for employees to get care earlier, before a challenge becomes a crisis.

In this episode, Jacob Batist joins us to explore what practical, scalable preventive health support actually looks like and how organizations can improve access to care without creating more operational burden for HR.

We explore:
👉 What reactive health strategies look like inside most organizations today, and where they break down
👉 What preventive health actually means in practice (beyond buzzwords and wellness perks)
👉 How HR leaders can improve preventive support without adding another complex program to manage
👉 Why access to care is one of the most important drivers of employee well-being
👉 What happens when employees can’t get support early enough for physical health, chronic conditions, or mental health challenges

If you’re an HR leader, founder, or business executive thinking about employee well-being, benefits, or the future of workplace health support, this episode offers a highly practical perspective.

About Jacob Batist:
Jacob Batist is a growth and strategy leader with experience across Shopify, PayPal, and Alan. His background spans go-to-market, operations, and product work, giving him a practical view of how companies grow, make decisions, and bring new products to market. He currently leads growth and marketing for Alan Canada, where he is helping build the first Canadian health benefits company since 1957.

🔗 Connect with Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-batist/
🌐 Learn more: https://alan.com/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #EmployeeWellbeing #Benefits #MentalHealth #HR #FutureOfWork #Leadership #PeopleAndCulture

When Change Breaks Down: The CEO-CHRO Alignment Test - Hannah Yardley

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:35:31 -0000

Unmuted Podcast | Episode #79
Topic: When Change Breaks Down - The CEO-CHRO Alignment Test
Guest: Hannah Yardley – Chief People & Culture Officer at Achievers
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahyardley/
Host: Jeff Waldman – Founder & HR Tech Evangelist at ScaleHR & SocialHRCamp

Episode Overview:
Most organizational transformations don't fail because the strategy was wrong. They fail because leaders weren't aligned on how to bring that strategy to life.

During periods of change, CEOs often focus on business strategy, operating models, and outcomes. But what frequently gets overlooked is behavioural clarity, what leaders expect people to do differently, how those behaviours are reinforced, and who is responsible for making key decisions. That's where the CEO-CHRO partnership becomes critical.

In this episode, Hannah Yardley joins us to explore why alignment between the CEO and CHRO is often the deciding factor between successful transformation and organizational confusion. Drawing on her experience leading people and culture functions in high-growth and global organizations, Hannah shares practical insights on behavioural vision, reinforcement, decision rights, and the evolving role of the CHRO in helping organizations navigate change.

We explore:
👉 Why setting a behavioural vision is just as important as setting a strategic vision
👉 How change initiatives break down when reinforcement isn't consistent
👉 The different roles a CHRO plays during transformation -- coach, counsellor, and consultant
👉 Why decision rights should be clarified before tension and confusion emerge
👉 How CEOs and CHROs can build stronger alignment to improve the success of change initiatives

If you're a CEO, CHRO, HR leader, or executive navigating growth, transformation, or AI-driven change, this conversation offers practical lessons on how leadership alignment shapes organizational outcomes.

About Hannah Yardley:
Hannah Yardley is the Chief People & Culture Officer at Achievers, where she helps drive the company's mission of creating workplaces where employees feel recognized, connected, and empowered to perform at their best.

Before Achievers, Hannah worked at Deloitte, advising some of the world's largest organizations on talent strategy and cultural performance. She later served as Global Vice President of People & Culture at Flybits, helping guide the company through periods of rapid growth and scale.

Today, she works closely with leaders across Achievers to build a culture of belonging, engagement, and high performance while helping organizations around the world transform the employee experience.

🔗 Connect with Hannah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahyardley/

About ScaleHR:
The Unmuted Podcast is powered by ScaleHR (https://goscalehr.com/), a rapidly growing company supporting emerging HR, Recruitment, and Work Tech startups and SMBs with brand awareness and lead generation.

Our proprietary solution, Catalyst, blends content strategy, influencer marketing, and omnichannel distribution to help brands cut through the noise.

📩 Connect with ScaleHR: https://www.goscalehr.com/

#Podcast #Leadership #HR #CHRO #FutureOfWork #ChangeManagement #PeopleAndCulture #EmployeeExperience

Growing Beyond Borders: What Global HR Teaches You About Leadership - Stephanie Matzos

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:54:58 -0000

Topic: Growing Beyond Borders - What Global HR Teaches You About Leadership
Guest: Stephanie Matzos – Senior HR Leader at ZenaTech
Guest LinkedIn: / smatzos
Company Websites:
ZenaTech: https://www.zenatech.com/
Othership: https://othership.com/

Episode Overview:
As organizations expand into new markets, acquire companies, and build teams around the world, the role of HR changes dramatically. What starts as a people function quickly becomes a business function, influencing growth, culture, operations, leadership, and strategy. And while global expansion brings complexity, it also creates one of the greatest opportunities for leadership development.

Leading people across countries, cultures, and business environments challenges HR professionals to think differently, communicate more effectively, and balance global consistency with local realities.

In this episode, Stephanie joins us to share what she's learned from helping organizations grow across borders and why global HR experience can be one of the most rewarding and career-defining journeys for HR leaders.

We explore:
👉 How supporting a rapidly growing global organization changes the way HR leaders think about business and leadership
👉 The biggest opportunities HR has to influence international growth and organizational success
👉 How to build a consistent culture while respecting different countries, cultures, and ways of working
👉 The leadership skills and mindsets that separate successful global HR leaders
👉 Practical advice for HR professionals who aspire to build an international career

Whether you're leading a global workforce today or hope to one day, this conversation offers valuable insights into what it takes to help organizations and yourself grow beyond borders.

About Stephanie Matzos:
Stephanie Matzos is a senior HR leader with more than 16 years of experience helping organizations build high-performing cultures and people strategies. Her expertise spans organizational planning, workforce planning, leadership development, talent acquisition, employee relations, diversity and inclusion, and performance management.

Throughout her career, Stephanie has partnered closely with business leaders to support organizational growth, improve employee experiences, and develop strong leadership capability. As part of ZenaTech, she has helped support a rapidly expanding global organization, including Othership, gaining firsthand experience scaling people, culture, and operations across multiple countries.