Up Next @ Work

Up Next @ WorkTech! Lawsuits, Layoffs, and the AI Panic Button

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode of Up Next @ WorkTech, Katie Achille and George LaRocque navigate another packed week of industry turbulence, from Workday's ongoing age-discrimination lawsuit to Senator Hassan's public rebuke of data-broker practices reaching HR Tech. Episode highlights include:

Meta's recent acquisition spree, followed by rumors of major layoffs
New research from Brookings forecasts profound AI disruption, with a recommendation of how to adjust the path forward
The potential for 30 percent unemployment for new grads entering the job market
What corporate jargon really signifies, according to a study out of Cornell
One of the biggest TA tech funding rounds in recent memory - Series B secured by the folks at Juicebox

Up Next @ WorkTech! Reverse Recruiting, Security Risks, and the Rise of "AI Native" Everything

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode of Up Next @ WorkTech, Katie Achille and George LaRocque dive into the latest updates impacting the world of work, from companies like Accenture tying promotions to AI usage and Burger King's voice agent Patty tracking upsells and friendliness scores to the security risks of OpenClaw and the soon-to-be omnipresence of the AI native everything.

Episode highlights include:

AI‑driven performance management enters the chat, or in some industries, the headset.
Agentic security risks escalate with the introduction and rapid adoption of OpenClaw.
Reverse recruiting surges, revealing predatory practices in a down market.
HR tech funding continues to accelerate with new capital flowing into a variety of solutions and regions.

Up Next @ WorkTech! Turbulence, Shakeups, Hype, and the Future of HR Tech

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Katie Achille and George LaRocque are back with a fast-moving breakdown of the changes over at Workday, the hype and hazards of vibe coding as it relates to the software market at large, findings from the latest Corporate Equality Index, and more.

Episode highlights include:

Does Workday’s CEO transition signal deeper strategic and market pressures?
Vibe coding might be accelerating, but remains risky, lacking compliance, scalability and security
AI adoption is shifting from “build” to “buy,” with enterprises rapidly increasing investment
HR’s role is transforming (again!), requiring new skills to manage AI agents, automated workflows and hybrid human‑machine teams
Early‑stage HR Tech funding remains active, while mid‑stage companies face pressure

Up Next @ Work Meets HR & Payroll 2.0

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this crossover episode, Katie Achille sits down with Pete A. Tiliakos and Julie Fernandez, hosts of the popular podcast, HR & Payroll 2.0, to discuss where public relations stands in 2026 in the HR tech space. During their rapid-fire conversation, Katie, Pete, and Julie cover everything from the value of the industry analysts to the ongoing emergence of AEO and GEO.

Episode highlights include:

The trouble with the term "public relations" nowadays
The AI of it all and what that means to vendors versus practitioners
The importance of nailing your message right in a crowded market
How brand awareness infiltrates the psyche, even without a mention in WSJ

For more from Katie, you can connect with her on LinkedIn or subscribe to her newsletter, The How, over on Substack. And of course, don't forget to listen to HR & Payroll 2.0 and follow Pete and Julie.

Up Next @ WorkTech! AI on Trial, Labor Power, and HR Tech’s Reckoning

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:30:00 -0000

2026 kicks off with a jolt as Katie Achille and George LaRocque unpack a wave of developments reshaping HR tech. They dive into the new class action lawsuit against Eightfold, exploring what it signals to the market, around AI transparency, vendor accountability, and compliance.

The conversation widens to worker power, including Microsoft's landmark agreement with Australian labor unions, and the heated rhetoric coming out of Davos about AI's impact on jobs. Katie and George also consider Apple and Google's latest partnership and the first acquisitions of the year.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 31 with Robert Mattson of Intrigue Communications and Coaching

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

As we start the New Year, Jeanne Achille welcomes guest Robert Mattson of Intrigue Communications and Coaching to Up Next @ Work. Mattson helps us understand the importance of storytelling on a corporate level, leaning into the tried-and-true three-act structure: the introduction, the conflict, and persuasive conclusion. He discusses the curse of knowledge and why storytelling from the inside out doesn’t produce optimal results.

Robert also gives us some gems from his workshops that can help all of us create the emotional connections with our target audiences through better storytelling. Bonus feature: We discuss favorite movies – the ultimate expression of storytelling – and why AI only makes you sound like everyone else.

Learn more about Robert's work and follow him on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 30 with Tracee Bowles, Advisory Practice Leader at The Hackett Group

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Up Next @ Work, Jeanne Achille speaks with Tracee Bowles, CPP, SHRM-SCP, Global Payroll & Workforce Management Advisory Practice Leader at The Hackett Group (R). Tracee’s expertise in payroll is unprecedented – whether discussing geo-fencing, mobile-based workforces, job costing in the construction industry or certified payrolls – she understands what’s complicating the inherent complexities of payroll and how to sort through them. Her career started as a practitioner, leading a team of 30 HR, payroll admin and ops, UE, IT, recordkeeping and reception professionals across 10 locations. With that strong foundation in place, she took her knowledge of how to streamline this business-critical function from lots of moving parts across shared services, PEO, direct, and partnership models. Oh, and did we mention she is also a tax and wage garnishment expert? Take a listen and learn about one of the toughest challenges faced by employers: paying their workforces accurately and on time.

Learn more about Tracee's work at The Hackett Group and connect with her on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ WorkTech! The New HR Frontier: From AI Agents to Regulation Battles

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0000

In episode five of Up Next @ Work Tech, Katie Achille and George LaRocque talk through the turbulence defining today's labor market. From conflicting signals and the rise of AI-driven HR roles to the urgent need for thoughtful regulation, Katie and George consider how to navigate this liminal moment.

Key Takeaways

Gartner's predictions for the HR roles of the future
The disconnect between layoffs and stock market highs
What ServiceNow's acquisition of Veza represents
The importance of Findem's partnership with AnitaB.org
And of course, the SHRM lawsuit as it unfolded

Up Next @ WorkTech! Workday’s PipeDream, Payroll Pitfalls, and HR’s Strategic Crossroads

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0000

In this installment, Katie Achille and George LaRocque dissect the paradox of HR Tech funding, Workday’s Pipedream acquisition, payroll automation failures, workplace safety concerns, and The Economist’s claim that HR has “taken over the world.”

Key Takeaways

Despite $4.9B invested in 2025, early-stage founders face unprecedented challenges in raising capital.
Workday’s acquisition of Pipedream positions it as a leading enterprise AI agent platform for HR and finance.
AI-driven payroll failures highlight the need for human oversight and off-cycle payment safeguards.
The Amber Czech tragedy underscores the importance of escalation processes, psychological safety, and frontline worker protection.
The Economist’s claim that HR has “taken over the world” sparks debate on strategy, DEI, and AI disruption.

Content Warning: There is a discussion of workplace violence in this episode.

Up Next @ WorkTech! Funding, Fumbles, and the Future of Work

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 19:02:00 -0000

In this episode, George LaRocque and Katie Achille dig into another whirlwind week in HR and Work Tech, from massive valuations and new funds to geographic exits and the morass of missing data.

Key Takeaways

Demand and the impact on valuation
The ethics and economics of AI training
How durable skills are influencing a shift toward "boring jobs"
The need for alternative data sources
Clever marketing reminds us to use that PTO

Up Next @ WorkTech! AI is Everywhere

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:01:00 -0000

Katie Achille and George LaRocque are back with another episode of Up Next @ WorkTech, and this time, they're talking about everything from the latest M&A wave to hit HR Tech to Microsoft's introduction of "Mico," the so-called Clippy of the modern era.

Key Takeaways

Humanly, Jack & Jill, Findem and FairNow were out there making moves.
Is AI augmenting our work or coming for our jobs? Seems like the jury's still out as Amazon, Meta, and the like lean into layoffs.
Reddit is suing everyone, particularly Perplexity —what does that mean?
Women leave the workforce in droves in 2025.
And the rise of vibe working brings us new AI "assistants" to keep us company.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 29 with Philip Wilson, Labor Relations Expert, Author & CEO of LRI Consulting Services

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Up Next @ Work, Jeanne Achille talks to Phillip B. Wilson, labor lawyer turned leadership consultant and CEO of LRI Consulting Services. While there’s no shortage of leadership advice out there, it’s rare to find a proven framework that sticks. Drawing from his Amazon No. 1 bestseller, The Leader-Shift Playbook, Phil shares what he believes drives meaningful change in the workplace: approachable leadership. Phil also opens up about his own professional journey, including what’s worked, what failed, and how listeners can learn from it.

Episode highlights include:

Your impact matters—every time. Leaders leave every interaction either better or worse. There’s no neutral.
Real relationships are a leadership superpower. It’s not about perks or policies—it’s about trust, vulnerability, and genuine interest in people’s lives.
Feedback is a gift. Phil shares a candid moment when a team member told him, “I told your dad I’d never work for you.” That feedback became the turning point in his leadership evolution.

Whether you're a rising manager, seasoned executive, or someone passionate about organizational culture, this conversation will leave you with tangible strategies to build a more human-centered, high-performing workplace. Connect with Phil on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 28 with Beth White, Founder & CEO of MeBeBot

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this must-listen episode, host Jeanne Achille sits down with Beth White, the dynamic founder of MeBeBot, to explore how AI is transforming the employee experience—and why HR professionals must take the lead in this shift. Beth shares her fascinating journey from decades in HR to leading enterprise retail tech sales, where she learned firsthand how consumer experience principles can and should be applied to the workplace.

Episode highlights include:

AI isn’t new—but it is different now. Beth reminds us that AI has been around for decades. What’s new is the accessibility and mainstream application of tools like ChatGPT, which demands broader organizational understanding.
The power trio: HR, IT, and Finance must collaborate to build AI strategy. HR should not be sidelined—if you’re not invited to the table, invite yourself.
Responsible AI matters. With regulation catching up (EU AI Act, U.S. executive orders, state-by-state laws), HR leaders must be proactive in understanding AI governance, fairness, and vendor accountability.

Jeanne and Beth also unpack the ethical, operational, and emotional challenges of AI adoption, from the organizational silos stifling innovation to the unexpected grief employees and leaders may experience as work evolves. This episode is packed with wisdom on change management, cross-functional collaboration, and governance frameworks that can help companies implement AI responsibly—and effectively. Follow Beth on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ WorkTech! AI Lawsuits, Resume Hacks, and HR Tech Shakeups

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In the first episode of "Up Next @ WorkTech," George LaRocque and Katie Achille look at AI in recruiting, HR Tech lawsuits, resume optimization, applicant tracking systems (ATS), workforce planning, HR compliance, and future of work trends.

Key Takeaways

Workday’s age discrimination lawsuit moves forward, with court-mandated social media outreach and protected client disclosures—raising major compliance and reputational risks for HR Tech vendors.
AI-generated resume hacks resurface, including embedded ChatGPT prompts and invisible keyword stuffing—reviving concerns about ATS manipulation and ethical recruiting practices.
The missing BLS jobs report disrupts Q4 workforce planning, forcing HR leaders to rely on alternative labor market data from ADP, Paychex, and Lightcast.
Sora’s viral explosion surpasses ChatGPT downloads, spotlighting the growing influence of generative AI in entertainment, recruiting, and digital identity.
Major M&A activity reshapes the HR Tech landscape, with Workday acquiring Sana and Paradox, SAP absorbing SmartRecruiters, and Sage buying Criterion HCM.
Investor sentiment rebounds in HR Tech, with Q3 funding surging and AI dominating deal flow—signaling renewed momentum for startups and strategic innovation.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 27 with Ranya Nehmeh, Senior HR Strategist

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Up Next @ Work, Jeanne talks with Ranya Nehmeh, a senior HR strategist based in Vienna, about her latest book titled “In Praise of the Office: The Limits to Hybrid and Remote Work.” Co-authored with Peter Cappelli of the Wharton School, the book delivers a balanced, research-based approach to navigating the complex landscape of remote and hybrid work. Jeanne and Ranya explore when in-office works best, when fully remote is viable, and what’s required to make hybrid work.

Episode highlights include:

The hidden benefits of being in person
The new employee journey, examined in the context of in-office
What leaders need to know to navigate these conversations

Leaders everywhere are grappling with this post-pandemic dilemma, and this episode provides a helpful framework for rethinking return-to-office conversations. Learn more about Ranya's research and follow her on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 26 with Jenni Catron

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Recent research from Gallup puts U.S. employee engagement at only 31 percent. That means for every one of your three employees sitting around the conference room table, two of the three might be looking for a new job or doing the minimal amount of work to get by. There’s a direct correlation between engagement and culture, and Jenni Catron, author of “Culture Matters,” joins host Jeanne Achille for this episode of Up Next @ Work to explore how to help your team grow and thrive.

Episode highlights include:

The intersection of culture and business goals
What it takes to build teams in today's world
Real-life stories of impactful leadership

You’ll definitely enjoy this podcast episode on why planning and strategy need to be part of any organization’s culture-building journey. Learn more about Jenni's work at her website.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 25 with Joey Price + Tami Nutt of Aspect43

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Up Next @ Work, host Katie Achille sits down with Joey Price and Tami Nutt of Aspect43 to demystify the role of the HR tech analyst in 2025. What exactly is an analyst today, and how have their responsibilities evolved?

Joey and Tami bring their decades of HR practitioner experience to the conversation – discussing how analysts serve as strategic advisors to both HR leaders and tech vendors alike. From decoding buyer sentiment and trends to helping HR teams make more informed business cases, Joey and Tami share what it really means to connect the dots between HR needs and tech innovation.

Episode highlights include:

The day-to-day life of an analyst (hint: it’s more than just writing reports)
What ROI really looks like in 2025
How HR professionals and tech vendors can make the most of conferences like HR Tech
Why analyst days are no longer just for the “big guys” in tech
Upcoming research from Aspect43

Whether you're an HR leader, tech vendor, or getting ready to kick off the fall conference season, this episode will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the critical role analysts play. Connect with Joey and Tami on LinkedIn and follow their work at Aspect43.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 24 with Labor Tech Research Network

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this powerful episode of Up Next @ Work, Katie Achille welcomes members of Labor Tech Research Network — a transnational, member-driven community examining the intersection of labor, technology, and social justice. Katie is joined by Steph Jordan (Board Member), Winnie Poster (Director), and Karina Ripley (Lead Organizer) for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the realities of visible and invisible labor reshaping both physical and digital landscapes.

Episode highlights include:

Background on the network’s 750+ members across 55 countries
How the network collaborates on research, policy, and grassroots organizing
Why “labor,” not just “work,” is the focus — highlighting global inequalities, power dynamics, and firsthand accounts of global labor challenges
A look at how communities are beginning to respond — and where resistance and refusal are still possible.

Whether you're in HR, HR Tech, academia, or simply interested in how the future of work is being built, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about the Labor Tech Research Network at labortechresearchnetwork.org or follow on BlueSky and LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 23 with Mary Faulkner of IA

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this thought-provoking episode, Katie Achille is joined by Mary Faulkner of IA. The two dive deep into the growing gap between AI excitement at the executive level and the real-world readiness of organizations able to implement it meaningfully. Looking at the first half of 2025, Kate and Mary unpack the disconnect between vision and execution in today's HR tech landscape.

Episode highlights include:

The myth of the "quick fix" AI
Implementation vs. adoption
Frontline workforce tech gaps
Change management that actually works
Decision-making chaos in executive teams
The future of AI, hallucinations, and therapy bots

Whether you're a tech vendor, HR leader, or just trying to stay afloat in a year of AI overwhelm, this episode delivers clarity and candor you won’t want to miss. Be sure to find Mary on LinkedIn and learn more about IA.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 22 with Lisa Kaplowitz + Adam Feigenbaum, Rutgers Center for Women in Business

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Up Next @ Work is back for season three! In episode one, Kate Achille sits down with Lisa Kaplowitz, co-founder and executive director of the Rutgers Center for Women in Business (CWIB), and Adam Feigenbaum, a seasoned executive and advocate for inclusion who works with CWIB. Together, they explore the evolving role of male allyship in the workplace, offering insights, personal stories, and actionable advice for anyone seeking to be a more effective partner in advancing equity. Episode highlights include:

The current state of gender equity
Common misconceptions and practical actions
Allyship across identities
Organizational support and leadership modeling
The role of technology

This episode serves as a reminder that anyone can be an ally, and small, conscious actions have the power to reshape workplace culture for the better. Connect with Lisa and Adam on LinkedIn and learn more about CWIB.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 21 with Al Dea of The Edge of Work

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0000

What does it take to develop strong, adaptable leaders in today’s workplace? In this episode of Up Next at Work, host Jeanne Achille welcomes Al Dea, a renowned talent and leadership development consultant and founder of The Edge of Work. Al shares his expert insights on how organizations can effectively develop and grow their leaders, the evolving landscape of talent management, and what it takes to stay ahead in today’s rapidly changing workplace.

Episode highlights include:

Why leadership development is more critical than ever
The common mistakes companies make when growing their talent
Actionable strategies to foster leadership at every level
Al’s personal take on the future of work and learning

If you’re looking to level up your leadership game or enhance your organization’s approach, this episode is for you! As Al shares, "Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about impact, influence, and adaptability." Find Al on LinkedIn, and don't miss The Edge of Work.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 20 with Gina Alioto of Shaker Recruitment Marketing

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

How can recruitment marketing stay effective in a rapidly changing world? Gina Alioto, VP and Head of Marketing at Shaker Recruitment Marketing—and mother of 18-month-old identical twins—joins host Jeanne Achille to share insights from her journey, from consumer marketing to talent acquisition, and how the best recruitment marketing feels effortless to its audience. As a leader at Shaker, a full-service recruitment marketing agency specializing in employer branding, media strategy, and talent engagement, Gina offers a fresh perspective on the evolving industry.

Episode highlights include:

Why subtle, natural messaging is the key to impactful recruitment marketing.
The balance of "rigor vs. rigid"—setting clear goals while staying adaptable.
How to market recruitment marketing internally to keep stakeholders engaged.

Tune in for Gina’s expert take on recruitment marketing strategy, flexibility in dynamic environments, and the power of understanding your audience. Connect with Gina on LinkedIn or learn more at Shaker.com.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 19 with Michelle Meehan of The Silver Thread

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The rules of HR Tech marketing are being rewritten as companies navigate shifting priorities, faster news cycles, and new technologies like generative AI. In this episode, Michelle Meehan, founder of The Silver Thread, joins host Kate Achille to explore how marketers can keep up by adapting, taking smart risks, and standing out in an increasingly crowded marketplace. With deep experience in talent assessment and purpose-driven branding, Michelle shares why the old playbooks no longer work—and what to do instead.

Episode highlights include:

The risk of clinging to old marketing “rules” and getting lost in the noise.
Balancing the fast-moving nature of modern marketing with the needs and behaviors of HR Tech buyers.
Borrowing from the tech world: developing a "rules roadmap" to navigate shifting industry trends.

Michelle shares her perspective on brands that take risks and push boundaries, emphasizing that marketing is both an art and a science—its impact goes beyond just numbers. Connect with her on LinkedIn and visit The Silver Thread at thesilverthread.com.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 18 with Julie Pridham of Valimail

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:19:00 -0000

In this episode, host Jeanne Achille of The Devon Group joins Julie Pridham of Valimail to explore the growing threats businesses face from phishing, ransomware, and data breaches. Jeanne and Julie discuss how cybercriminals exploit human error to gain access to sensitive information and why organizations must integrate security into their culture and business strategy. Julie shares insights on how businesses can strengthen their defenses, from technical controls like email authentication and password management to fostering a culture of trust and awareness among employees. The two also dive into the risks posed by disgruntled former employees, the importance of HR and IT collaboration, and how companies—regardless of industry—can scale their security measures effectively.

Conversation highlights include:

Cybersecurity as a Trust Issue – Protecting employee and customer data is critical for maintaining trust within an organization. A strong security culture reduces both internal and external threats.
Human Error is the Weakest Link – About 68% of data breaches stem from unsuspecting employees clicking on malicious links or failing to follow security protocols, highlighting the need for better training and awareness.
Technical Controls Strengthen Security – Businesses can implement measures like email authentication, password managers, and multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access and minimize risks.

Whether you're an HR professional, IT leader, or business owner, this episode will equip you with actionable strategies to protect your organization and its people in an increasingly digital world.

To learn more from Julie, connect with her on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 17 with Susan LaMotte of exaqueo

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this thought-provoking episode, Jeanne Achille and Susan LaMotte of exaqueo dive into the profound ways employers and candidates are reshaping the hiring landscape. Together, Jeanne and Susan explore the heightened emotions in the talent market—ranging from excitement to frustration—and how these feelings are redefining candidate experiences. What’s driving this shift? Economic pressures, remote work, and the changing dynamics of employment relationships all play a role.

Episode highlights include:

The rise of "deeply feeling" candidates and their impact on hiring.
The breakdown of workplace culture and reciprocity in employment.
Predictions for 2025: The emergence of Gen Alpha in the workforce and what it means for the future of talent acquisition.

Join Jeanne and Susan for a candid discussion about the evolving expectations of employers and employees, the importance of fostering strong workplace relationships, and how to navigate a rapidly changing labor market. Follow Susan on LinkedIn to learn more about her work.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 16 with Lydia Wu of Oops, Did I Think That Out Loud

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Jeanne Achille and Lydia Wu dive deep into the intersection of HR technology, data-driven decision-making, and the critical role trust plays in successful tech partnerships. Lydia takes us through her journey from corporate HR to HR tech, shedding light on her experiences navigating the complex world of vendor relationships and data analytics. From the early realization that HR tech conversations often miss the mark, to the pivotal role trust plays in buying decisions, this conversation uncovers the untold dynamics of tech selection in enterprise environments. Jeanne and Lydia explore how data can drive impactful changes in workforce management, like reducing turnover and optimizing production lines. Their discussion also delves into the unique challenges faced by both large enterprises and smaller organizations when it comes to selecting the right tech solutions.

Episode highlights include:

Making tech purchasing decisions isn't just about ROI - buyers are investing their political capital and need to trust that vendors will deliver on their promises, not just secure a logo.
HR tech is not just an HR function. To successfully implement solutions, collaboration with departments like legal and procurement is essential. Speak their language to get buy-in and move projects forward.
Smaller organizations face a different set of challenges when selecting HR tech solutions, but with more effort and research, they can find alternatives that cater to their needs.

From consulting at big names like Accenture and Deloitte to leading innovation at Panasonic and building HR tech solutions, Lydia Wu has been around the HR industry block a few times and can probably tell you where all the potholes are.

She is a true HR Swiss Army knife—strategist, translator, connector, and problem-solver extraordinaire. Lydia is passionate about demystifying all things HR and Tech and helping everyone in the HR tech ecosystem find their next “aha!” moment (preferably before their coffee gets cold or watery).

Always keeping things refreshingly real, Lydia is your real-talk bff on all things HR and Tech. Don't miss her insights and engaging stories on her popular channel, Oops, Did I Think That Out Loud? and connect with her on LinkedIn.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 15 with Jeanette Leeds

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Jeanette Leeds, talent acquisition tech expert and co-host of the High Volume Hiring podcast, joins Jeanne Achille for an insightful conversation on the nuances of recruitment. The former CEO of Hourly by AMS, Jeanette has deep expertise in Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) for high-volume scenarios such as campus recruiting and retail hiring. Drawing on Jeanette's rich background, this episode explores how processes and strategies can adapt across diverse hiring needs while maintaining efficiency and scalability.

Episode highlights include:

A breakdown of skillsets and personality types suited for campus recruiting, high-volume hiring, and executive recruiting.
A comparison of high-volume hiring to sales churn, emphasizing compensation level, flexibility, and unique perks as top candidate attractors.
Guidance on selecting the right talent acquisition platform, tailored to your organization’s specific needs.
Predictions for 2025, including AI-powered voice agents and Interview Intelligence tools transforming recruitment workflows.

To hear more about Jeanette's work, connect with her on LinkedIn or visit JeanetteLeeds.com. You can also tune in to the High Volume Hiring podcast, part of the WRKdefined network and available on all major platforms, for more valuable insights.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 14 with Michele Bodda of Experian

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

How are workplace culture and financial innovation shaping the future of inclusion and opportunity? On this week's episode of Up Next @ Work, Michele Bodda, President of Employer Services, Verification Solutions and Housing at Experian, joined host Jeanne Achille for an engaging discussion on Experian’s culture, innovation and the evolving role of credit in promoting financial inclusion. With 26 years at Experian, Michele shared insights from her journey, starting in a call center to becoming a senior leader driving transformative initiatives.

Episode highlights include:

How Experian’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) create supportive communities and influence product inclusivity.
A groundbreaking program with HBCUs, challenging students to solve real-world problems for scholarships.
Changes in credit processes driven by Experian’s Pride ERG to support transgender individuals navigating name changes.
How Experian uses data to make financial services more inclusive, including unconventional credit-building opportunities for renters and new borrowers.

Hear Michele’s unique perspective on leadership, innovation, and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Find her on LinkedIn and learn more about Experian at http://www.experian.com.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 13 with Lighthouse Research & Advisory

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Ben Eubanks, Chief Research Officer at Lighthouse Research & Advisory, joins Up Next @ Work host Jeanne Achille for an insightful conversation on the evolving HR landscape, the challenges professionals face, and innovative solutions for the future of work. With a passion for empowering HR leaders, Ben shares practical advice from his research, books, and transformative HR Summer School initiative.

Episode highlights include:

How HR Summer School fosters community, inspiration, and education for professionals juggling diverse responsibilities.
Unconventional HR strategies like financial literacy training and transportation assistance to better support employees.
Key takeaways from Talent Scarcity, Ben’s latest book on adapting to the hiring crisis and a shrinking workforce.
Predictions for 2025, including AI’s growing influence, the rise of skills-based hiring, and why onboarding is now a top priority.

Connect with Ben on LinkedIn, explore his research at LHRA.io, and find updates about HR Summer School at HRSummerSchool.org. Don’t miss the next event in June 2025!

Up Next @ Work, Episode 12 with Caitlin MacGregor, CEO of Plum

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

What if the secret to solving today’s hiring challenges lies not in resumes but in uncovering hidden skills and innate behaviors? In this episode, host Kate Achille sits down with Caitlin MacGregor, CEO and co-founder of Plum, to discuss how organizations can rethink their talent acquisition strategies. Caitlin introduces the concept of “gap-closers,” individuals driven to identify and fix inefficiencies in pursuit of better outcomes, and explains how adopting a skills-based hiring approach can unlock the potential of these transformative candidates.

Episode highlights include:

The unique traits of “gap-closers” and why they excel at solving problems across all areas of life.
How generative AI tools help HR focus on skills and behaviors over outdated criteria like degrees.
Why durable, transferable skills are key to long-term success, with a real-world example of skills-based hiring in Barbados, where transferable skills filled critical cybersecurity roles.
Why leadership must drive innovation in hiring to adapt to a rapidly changing job market.

Visit plum.io to complete your free Plum profile and learn how skills-based hiring can transform your organization. Be sure to listen to the full podcast episode for more insights and inspiration from Caitlin MacGregor.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 11 with Bennett Sung

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

High-quality, accurate candidate-matching software is considered the "silver bullet" of the HR Tech world. Bridging the gap between the language of the recruiter and the language of the applicant to build the best possible candidate pool has been a puzzle the industry has been trying to crack since the mid-90s. Still, solutions are falling short of expectations. Our guest this week, Bennett Sung, draws on his nearly two decades of experience as a Product Marketing Manager and CMO in the HR/Recruiting Tech industry to discuss how solutions providers can make their products more effective for the end user. Bennett and Kate discuss a wide range of topics, including:

The disconnect between resume and job description language causing issues for automated matching systems.
The need for stricter job intake guidelines, including detailed ideal candidate profiles.
The risk of bias in candidate selection, even with AI, and the need for hiring teams and solutions providers to address it.
Current benefits of Generative AI in hiring and its potential future developments.

Learn more about the state of the candidate matching software landscape by listening to our conversation with Bennett. Thanks for sharing Up Next @ Work with your community.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 10 with Josh Schwede of Aventura Growth Labs

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Old-school go-to-market tactics simply don’t work anymore, says our guest, Josh Schwede of Aventura Growth Labs. In this episode of Up Next @ Work, he talks about why bombarding prospects with unwanted emails, day in and day out, won’t result in a sales order. Given the extreme pressures on CEOs and founders, he recommends abandoning the harsh “grow or die” mentality and redirecting sales and marketing energy towards building loyal followings. This community-building GTM approach generates better engagement and brand awareness. Jeanne and Josh discuss:

What's changed with GTM expectations and experiences.
The problem with over-innovation within the HR Technology space.
What companies need to know now.

Learn more by listening to our conversation with Josh. Thanks for sharing Up Next @ Work with your community.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 9 with Jason Corsello and Jackson Malary of Acadian Ventures

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 16:39:00 -0000

This week on Up Next @ Work, Jeanne Achille meets the future of venture capital and HR tech as she welcomes Acadian Ventures founder and general partner Jason Corsello and his summer intern Jackson Malary. Jeanne and Jason discuss the importance of building strong connections early in your career and how he draws on his network to find exciting investment opportunities for his firm. Jackson also shares how valuable his experience interning at a smaller VC and working directly with its principals has been compared to his colleagues' internships at much larger firms. Jason also shares what trends he sees emerging in the future of HR Tech as the industry begins shifting towards a full embrace of AI.

Episode highlights include:

What VCs look for in a founder
Comparisons to broader adoption of cloud-based applications to the current move towards AI-based software
Discussions of how internships and early work experiences can guide a person's career
The possibility of AI replacing entire jobs in the HR space

Up Next @ Work, Episode 8 with Evelyn McMullen + Trevor White of Nucleus Research

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000

At a time when organizations are trying to "do more with less," how can HR and talent teams make the most of their technology investments? In this episode, Kate Achille talks to Evelyn McMullen, Research Manager, and Trevor White, Vice President, Advisory and Consulting at Nucleus Research, about the return on investment for HR tech. From the basic equation needed to determine ROI to making the business case with finance and procurement, Evelyn and Trevor share what HR professionals need to know about the changing nature of this market and how to ensure they're getting the most out of their existing solutions.

Episode highlights include:

What's different about HR buying habits in 2024 versus previous cycles
How to leverage the continued emergence of data as part of everyday HR
Ways the vendor community can get closer to their buyers
What to expect in the lead-up to 2025 budgeting

Up Next @ Work, Episode 7 with Tim Sackett, SPHR, SCP

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

How does Tim Sackett, SPHR, SCP get up every morning and get the job done? By his own admission, talent acquisition has never been harder. While it’s easier to find talent – thanks to technology – it’s getting tougher to cut through the noise and forge personal connections that matter. He shares his own career journey with us, which includes staffing, corporate and blogging stints. Today, he’s a successful entrepreneur running HRU Technical Resources, a $40M IT and Engineering contract staffing firm and RPO. Every conversation with Tim is educational. Listen in to learn from this talent acquisition master.

Key Takeaways:

He shares the secret of recruiting’s superpower
How demoralizing it is when you turn recruiters into administrators
The role of AI in talent acquisition and why he’s so excited about it
And why AI will actually reduce bias and its transparency will keep everyone informed if bias crops up

Up Next @ Work, Episode 6 with Heather Bussing + Kent Plunkett, Authors of "Get Pay Right"

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Pay Equity That Works With Heather Bussing and Kent Plunkett

It sounds simple, but pay is far more than money. Our compensation feels like a reflection of our worth, our status, and our power. In this spirited discussion, the authors of “Get Pay Right,” employment attorney Heather Bussing and Salary.com CEO Kent Plunkett, demystify pay equity and offer a practical framework to put pay at the core of the employee experience. Not only can you order their book on Amazon, but they’ve also generously shared their recent presentation from the SHRM Conference on this same topic. Thanks for listening to and liking Up Next @ Work.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 5 with Dylan Teggart of 3Sixty Insights

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Up Next @ Work host Kate Achille sits down with Dylan Teggart, Principal Analyst at 3Sixty Insights, to discuss the state of the employee experience in 2024. Taking a socio-political lens to what's most often seen as an HR issue, Kate and Dylan consider what factors most influence engagement rates in today's workplaces and what employers can do to understand and improve the connection to their workforce. This conversation also serves as a preview of Dylan's forthcoming research on building the employee experience from a workforce management perspective.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 4 with Kathy Claytor

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Jeanne Achille hosts Kathy Claytor, GPHR, SPHR, CHRO of Delta Dental.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 3 with CareerXroads

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Up Next @ Work, Jeanne Achille and Kate Achille of The Devon Group sit down with industry legend Gerry Crispin of CareerXroads to talk about transparency. Gerry believes that there's a growing need for transparency in HR Tech, a space that's become increasingly blurry over the years. Which analyst is working with which company? Which influencer is promoting which product? Is anyone objective anymore? Gerry offers his thoughts on why transparency matters as the three work to find a clear-cut answer to the matter of disclosure.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 2 with East Side Staffing

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For episode two of Up Next @ Work, Jeanne Achille and Kate Achille of The Devon Group talk to Laura Mazzullo of East Side Staffing about the hiring landscape in 2024. What's happening? Can anyone make it make sense? And more than that, can anyone help out these poor recruiting teams? They need more support, access to resources, better training, or a hug, at least. No doubt it is rough out there this year, but together, Jeanne, Kate and Laura envision a few different paths forward.

Up Next @ Work, Episode 1 with WRKdefined

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:00:00 -0000

On the inaugural episode of Up Next @ Work, Kate Achille of The Devon Group is joined by WRKdefined's William Tincup and Ryan Leary to discuss 2024 HR tech trends, Gen AI adoption and more. Will HR and talent professionals take a shine to Gen AI? Tincup seems to think the road to meaningful adoption rates will be long and arduous, putting HR tech vendors in the awkward position of selling to whom? For folks on the inside of the industry, especially HR tech marketers, there's lots to mull over here, given the gap in solutions versus buyers.

The Transformative Impact of Generative AI with Anoop Gupta, SeekOut

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 19:13:37 -0000

Generative AI is in its infancy says SeekOut CEO Anoop Gupta; yet, it is already having a transformational impact. As we move from documents to dialogue, John is concerned about AI making judgments about people. Great people and great companies grow together says Anoop, who reinforces that our social systems aren’t built for accountability when the machines make errors and therefore humans still need to be present and accountable. Anoop shares a fun presentation tip thanks to ChatGPT and John doesn’t disappoint when it comes to asking tough questions. This is our 50th episode of #TheWork podcast and we’ve barely scratched the surface of what work means to all of us. Thanks for listening to and liking #TheWork wherever you access your podcasts.

It’s Nifty to be Fifty: Certifying HR & Organizations with Dr. Amy Dufrane

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 17:46:59 -0000

Work is changing and we need to be ready for what’s next, says Dr. Amy Dufrane, the CEO of HRCI and HRSI. In this episode, we deconstruct the emerging role of AI in the workplace, reflect on the importance of ethics, and argue who’s winning the argument of human-powered critical thinking vs. relying exclusively on machines. John and Jeanne spar on whether HR can think mathematically and the overall financial acumen of HR professionals. Amy defuses our spirited argument with the facts: HR understands data, is relying on it to support business decisions, and going toe-to-toe with CFOs every day. We’re grateful to Dr. Dufrane for joining us on #TheWork podcast and we’d be remiss if we neglected to wish HRCI congratulations on its 50th anniversary. The best is yet to come!

Better People Decisions, Better Business Outcomes with Richard Rosenow

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:20:18 -0000

Richard Rosenow is one of the HR industry’s leading experts in the rapidly rising field of people analytics. His experience spans the practitioner side – as director of people planning & analytics at Uber and workforce planning program manager at Facebook – as well as the vendor side, in his current role as VP People Analytics Strategy at One Model. The hairy problem of HR data lurking in different places doesn’t scare him; in this interview, he tells us about what HR needs, what IT expects, and the role of other HR vendors. Richard helps us understand how people analytics helps HR make people decisions - a participatory function that, when executed across the board, also helps organizations drive better business outcomes. What was previously “a wisp of an idea,” people analytics is well on its way to massive adoption. Thanks for listening to #TheWork.

Culture, Organizations, People & Kimonos with Michael Kannisto

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 22:13:21 -0000

If you’re a regular listener of #TheWork #podcast, you know that John Sumser and Jeanne Achille love chatting with guests who have broad interests and a penchant for the creative. Guest Michael Kannisto defines creativity by helping people think differently about the future that can make their organizations better. As an example, he explains the enduring history of the kimono, a product – unlike many on the market today - that people have willingly spent discretionary funds on for more than one thousand years. Masterful at stepping around the mud called business as usual, Michael treats listeners to a peek into his dressmaking hobby and shares how to imagine possible futures. You’ll enjoy this time with the scenario director of Mindemiclab. Thanks for listening.

A Forgotten Talent Pool: Visually Impaired Candidates

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 22:27:26 -0000

People with disabilities, including those facing vision loss, are overwhelmingly underemployed, with only 30% fully employed. Many employers don’t consider people who are blind or visually impaired when hiring, often because they think it’s too difficult to accommodate them in the workplace. Nothing can be further from the truth. In this episode of #TheWork, we chat with Marianne Haegeli, Director, Learning and Leadership, at NSITE. We learned so much from her. We know that you will too.

Fit Scores and AI with Mahe Bayireddi, CEO of Phenom

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 14:12:13 -0000

Phenom is a #HRTech success story: founded in 2011, employing more than 1,500 worldwide, and supporting more than 500 multinational customers. Delivering an exceptional talent experience, Phenom was also one of the early champions of artificial intelligence and its predictive power. In this episode of #TheWork, we chat with Phenom’s CEO, Mahe Bayireddi. He discusses what employers need to consider when hiring frontline versus knowledge workers. Mahe explains how AI can give control back to HR and recruiters, and the multiple data insights – such as offers extended/accepted and how long the candidate stays with the company – that validate its accuracy. Thanks for listening and liking #TheWork #podcast.

Your Frontline Workers Deserve Better Says Cris Grossmann of Beekeeper

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 20:37:00 -0000

In this episode, we chat with Cristian Grossmann, the CEO and co-founder of Beekeeper, a company that helps solve the disconnect between frontline workers and their managers in the retail, hospitality, manufacturing and construction industries. A former frontline worker himself, Cris understands first-hand the technology that is required to make the frontline workforce more effective. Before taking a turn into the world of #HRTech, Cris studied Chemical Engineering and got his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, both at ETH Zurich. Leveraging these disciplines to create Beekeeper’s mobile-first Frontline Success System, Cris gave us a peek into the company’s AI plans and – of course – John had a few thoughts to share on what that means to deskless workers.

Timely Topics with John Sumser of #TheWork

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 18:17:35 -0000

We'd be remiss if we didn't break stride to address the ramifications of NYC Local Law 144 and all things AI. Our own John Sumser is one of the leading experts on artificial intelligence and in this episode of #TheWork he asks (and answers) the tough questions that all of us should be considering as we navigate the nascent world of AI. Thanks for listening to this episode of #TheWork.

Tough Times Require The Right Stuff with Sarah Rodehorst

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:52:39 -0000

Sarah Rodehorst is the CEO of Onwards HR, the leading HR tech provider committed to making separations better for employers and employees. No stranger to the power of technology, Sarah’s expertise includes complex areas including healthcare reform and compliance. After seeing how much organizations struggled with the severance payments and separation regulations intended to ease transitions during workforce reductions, she started Onwards HR. In this episode of #TheWork, Sarah helps us understand who else is involved in a reduction in force (guess what – it’s not only HR) and how messy state WARN acts can be for enterprises laying off employees across different locations. We learned so much from Sarah and we’re sure you will too – please listen to learn more about this timely topic that is fraught with emotion and challenges for employers and employee alike.

Did You Know That Your ERP Needs Dado?

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 22:56:19 -0000

It’s always fun to learn about new companies that are returning value to their customers from day one! That’s Berlin-based Dado. By applying the principles of product management to HR, Dado becomes the extra team member that supports every stage of the employee experience, consistently and transparently. Arielle Kilroy is Dado’s co-founder, CEO and CPO, who has a fascinating career journey and game-changing technology. Thanks for listening to and liking this episode of #TheWork #podcast.

What You Resist, Persists with Hung Lee

Thu, 25 May 2023 21:09:38 -0000

This episode features a fascinating conversation with Hung Lee. He curates Recruiting Brainfood, one of the most popular weekly newsletters for the recruiting, HR, and talent industries. His keen expertise and approach to building a vendor-neutral community are respected around the globe. We discuss why some things in the workplace never change such as workers leaving low paying and low flexibility jobs, the impact of the aging workforce, and “elite overproduction” of highly educated people with elevated expectations without suitable jobs to match. No one has the final answer and we agreed we’re not going to solve it anytime soon. It’s why recruiting remains broken, and regardless of economic pressures, vacancies will always persist. Thanks for listening to #TheWork podcast.

Pay Equity and DEI with Heather Bussing

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:18:18 -0000

Employment attorney, writer and professor Heather Bussing believes pay equity is the easiest place to start a company’s DEI journey. Straightforward and simple, it’s math and shouldn’t be met with so much resistance. Yet, we all know that we’re years away from true pay equity, especially for women of color. Jeanne was surprised to learn how disparate pay is between men and women in the legal profession and we all bemoaned how uncomfortable and non-inclusive mandatory golf outings are. Join us for this episode of #TheWork podcast to learn from one of the HR industry’s most knowledgeable – and authentic – employment law experts.

Management Practices, Corporate Outcomes with Ben Waber of Humanyze

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 15:00:13 -0000

Blindly copying what successful companies did in the past simply doesn’t work anymore. In this episode of #TheWork podcast, our guest Ben Waber, President and co-founder of Humanyze and one of the world’s leading experts in people analytics, discusses why there is no status quo other than change as the new constant. We discuss how it has exposed the shabbiness of management practices and, of course, we also delve into #ChatGPT, preconceived notions of what data does or does not tell us, and why the truth matters. Having presented at high profile organizations including the U.N. and World Economic Forum, Ben’s thought leadership has been featured in Wired, CNN, HBR, and The New York Times. There’s no doubt you’ll understand why his work was selected for the Harvard Business Review's List of Breakthrough Ideas and the Technology Review's Top 10 Emerging Technologies.

Challenge The Norm With William Tincup

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0000

A pioneering voice in HR tech, William Tincup lives outside the box. In this episode of #TheWork, William punches holes in conventional thinking, shares his envy of Gen Z, and takes us on an unexpected magical mystery tour. John, Jeanne and William used to teach the wildly popular "Master Class in HCM" and by listening to this podcast, you’ll have a front-row seat as to why it was so successful. Learn from one of the best strategists in the #HRtech category: William Tincup.

Hiring Intelligence with Mike Fitzsimmons, CEO of Crosschq

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 00:03:01 -0000

While speed-to-hire might seem like the all-important recruiting metric, the person stocking the grocery market shelves requires different skills than the trucker who is delivering the merchandise to the store. In this episode of #TheWork, Crosschq CEO Mike Fitzsimmons takes us through an outcome-driven approach to talent acquisition and shares why hiring intelligence – the verified intelligence that informs quality of hire – is the future of relevant data. By leading with outcomes, Fitzsimmons says we can truly get to a predictive state in recruiting. Learn more by listening to the latest from #TheWork.

HR: Change or Cease to Exist with Jason Averbook

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:53:05 -0000

Leapgen CEO & co-founder Jason Averbook didn't mince words on the latest episode of TheWork. He says that unless HR stops doing what it has been doing for the last 50 years and refocuses within the next five, the function will DIE. Reskilling is part of what will help drive change but even more important is cultivating a mindset of changefulness: the intention and willingness to change. Listen and learn from one of the HR industry's leading experts as he muses over what HR investments are needed now to create a path forward.

The Differences Between Generative & Precise AI with Randy Womack

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 22:05:56 -0000

CEO of Socrates, Randy Womack, helps us understand ChatGPT in the context of generative AI and precise AI. Two separate concepts that tend to be erroneously combined, the differences between generative and precise AI should have all of us thinking about how these tools should be used and in which circumstances. Randy shares how ChatGPT’s well written content will influence many aspects of our lives, including the potential to replace the employment handbook (albeit under a consortium model.) Time with Randy makes all of us smarter. Thanks for listening and liking this episode of #TheWork.

Talking Smack about ChatGPT with Thomas Otter

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 18:35:26 -0000

When it comes to HR technology, Thomas Otter has seen it all. He joined Acadian Ventures from his own advisory firm in March 2022 as a General Partner, advising early-stage technology companies building the future of work. Before that, he led the product management organization at SAP SuccessFactors, Earlier in his career, he was a research vice president at Gartner, responsible for proprietary research in HR and HR technology. He earned a PhD from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, where he explored the relationship between enterprise software and compliance. In this episode of #TheWork, he tells us about his firm's investments in pay transparency, nudging technology, a skills engine solutions provider and a copyright infringement vendor. The last one led to a fun-filled discussion about ChatGPT, on which Thomas encourages us to slow our roll because - after all - weren't we all excited about blockchain just a few short years ago? Thanks for following #TheWork.

The ChatGPT Files: TheWork Speaks with Meg Bear

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:08:47 -0000

We kick off the new year with a repeat visit from one of our most popular guests: Meg Bear, President & Chief Product Officer of SAP SuccessFactors. Meg accepted our challenge to discuss ChatGPT - what it means now and what possibilities it holds for the future of work. Her take on how it can be used was refreshing and goes beyond the obvious such as writing marketing content and cover letters. Please listen in and be sure to share your feedback about this episode of #TheWork.

The Shift to Fluid Workflow with George LaRocque, WorkTech

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 14:09:05 -0000

George LaRocque holds a special place at the intersection of HR tech funding, M&A, and what's best for customers. In this episode of #TheWork, George muses over how the world is now moving faster than the technology that supports it. We discuss the moniker "Talent Intelligence" and what that means to customers. John questions if we’re still just conquering what hasn't worked before instead of innovating. We also turn our attention to lower birth rates, the scarcity of qualified talent, and what workflows can be automated when the people to fill jobs simply aren’t available. John calls balderdash when it comes to labor shortages and argues the issue is making work accessible instead. Thanks for listening to #TheWork.

Learning from the Talent Acquisition Master: Gerry Crispin

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 15:44:04 -0000

Why are we making it so difficult to hire? Why are employers expecting candidates to share details of every position ever held and how it ended? Why aren’t hiring managers required to tell candidates how many people they’ve hired in the last five years and where they are now? Restricting information to what can improve decision-making is a big fail for companies in the U.S. says Gerry Crispin, the indisputable kingpin of talent acquisition expertise. We were fortunate enough to sit down with Gerry upon his return from Burning Man to discuss the current state of recruiting and what TA leaders need to do to improve hiring outcomes.

Data Driven Probability with Ben Waber, President of Humanyze

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 17:23:39 -0000

In one of our favorite episodes ever, Ben Waber gives us new ways of thinking by dispelling people decision assumptions and myths. He explores probability and the role of chance, acknowledging how uncertain we are about being certain. If you're responsible for making business decisions - for yourself, your team, your customers and your organization - you'll want to listen to this MIT course in how to use data, creatively.

Workforce Retention Programs That Work with Tracey Parson, CEO of WORQDRIVE

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 02:11:58 -0000

Quiet quitting. The Great Resignation. Low employee engagement. It seems like every headline illuminates how unhappy workers are and what that means to business outcomes. In this episode of #TheWork, Tracey Parsons calls BS. She says we know what employees want and have known for decades. Giving them what they want seems to be the elusive change that employers struggle with and that's why turnover rates remain high. We learned so much from Tracey about creating career opportunities through internal mobility programs. And you will too.

HR is Stretched to the Limit Says Stacey Harris of Sapient Insights Group

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 12:19:21 -0000

Stacey Harris is the keynote speaker on Thursday, September 15 at this year's HR Tech Conference. Why is this so important? Because Stacey conducts the industry's most important buyer decision-making research, which is based on 25+ years of survey data. Stacey observes that HR professionals are stretched to the limit, John jumps in with tough questions about ethics and Jeanne reminds all of us about the importance of boundaries.

Your Employees Are Not Fine Says Cecile Alper-Leroux of UKG

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 21:50:28 -0000

Cecile Alper-Leroux is GVP of Research and Innovation at UKG. Since 2010, she has focused on fostering a culture of innovation, resulting in the delivery of advanced, people-centric technology solutions and services. Cecile is an economic anthropologist and best-selling author of "From Dissonance to Resonance, Bringing your People and Organization into Sync." In this episode of #TheWork, she questions why the trauma created by working through COVID times hasn't been addressed by many employers and the damage being created by organizations pushing tone-deaf agendas like it's still 2019.

Cutting to the Core with Matt Charney of HR.com

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:06:38 -0000

Matt Charney is a legend in the #HRTech category. Known for his ability to see the truth quickly (and call it out), John says Matt is one of the smartest people he knows and Jeanne thinks Matt is a polymath. At HR.com, Matt gets the opportunity to truly shine. In this episode of #TheWork, he talks about HR.com's global community, advisory boards and deep research offerings. Matt also takes us into the nitty-gritty of talent acquisition including the impact of dated technology and bad processes.

How HR Tech Makes Work Better with Thomas Otter, Acadian Ventures

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 12:09:11 -0000

One of the deepest thinkers in the HR tech category, Thomas Otter is our guest on this episode of #TheWork. Thomas helps us understand how disruption at the process level is forcing the evolution of HR systems, especially as work and payments change and organizational models shift. We discuss the innovation happening in the SME, dynamic economic indicators, and how the mobile, aging workforce is driving the shape of work.

Being Human at Work with Jess Von Bank of Leapgen

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:03:59 -0000

Few #HRTech marketers can boast the incredible career of Jess Von Bank. Added to her thoughtful, disciplined approach to people and products, is a deep passion for community: true workforce community, not just "lip service." In this episode, Jess takes us through her ideas for models that truly embrace inclusion and belonging and respect the dynamic nature of the workforce. We enjoyed our chat with Jess about work and we're sure you will too.

Being Present In Ways You Haven't Before with Mike Bollinger, Cornerstone OnDemand

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 12:45:41 -0000

In this fascinating episode of #TheWork, we chat with Cornerstone’s Global VP, Strategic Initiatives, Mike Bollinger. He steps us through the resiliency of organizational bias and muses over flat-screen life vs. office hallway conversations. Don’t miss his take on the metaverse and the opportunities it will create for increased innovation through a return to out-of-band conversations with a twist.

The Positive Impact of Returnships with Addie Swartz, CEO of reacHIRE

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 15:43:25 -0000

Creating pathways back into the workforce for those who've taken a career break is what reacHIRE does and their CEO explains why this is so important to organizations. "A career break is not a career breaker," she says and our co-hosts agree. It was great to learn how skills can be redeployed in new ways, even for jobs that didn't exist previously. Addie also lets listeners know how they can jumpstart their return to work with reacHIRE's free workbook, available for download: https://bit.ly/3mC36Lz

The Strategy of Talent Acquisition with Madeline Laurano, Aptitude Research

Tue, 31 May 2022 14:18:10 -0000

In this episode, the HR tech industry's leading talent acquisition expert Madeline Laurano stumps co-host John Sumser on the topic of skills and role of the resume. She helps us understand how TA teams need to think strategy, not just efficiency, especially when it comes to their tech stacks. We discuss the great resignation, recruiting hourly workers and hiring for potential while Jeanne rails about ghosting candidates. Don't miss the latest spirited discussion on #TheWork.

How AI is Rewiring Work with Anna Tavis

Thu, 19 May 2022 12:34:43 -0000

We're so fortunate to speak with Dr. Anna Tavis in this episode. She helps us understand why the pandemic accelerated changes that were already underway, specifically to the four Ws: work, workforce, workplace, and worth. She explains how machines can already take over simple cognitive tasks and the projected evolution of emotion in AI (AE: artificial empathy.) It's a fascinating discussion with one of the future of work's exceptional thought leaders.

Data-Driven Talent Decisions with Caitlin MacGregor, CEO of Plum

Wed, 11 May 2022 12:48:00 -0000

Entrepreneur, CEO, thought leader and working mother, Caitlin MacGregor knows how to bring clarity into the hiring process through psychometric data. In this episode, we explore what drives or drains employees and how this human-centric approach informs employee engagement and career pathways. Most important, she discusses how Plum data enables managers to be better leaders by aligning talent acquisition and talent management in a way that nurtures and respects workers.

Unleashing the Potential of Talent with Jeff Hunter, Founder of Talentism

Tue, 03 May 2022 15:27:45 -0000

In this episode of #TheWork, talent expert Jeff Hunter helps us understand how to build great organizations by leveraging the potential of talent. Jeff talks about the human experience at work and what's needed to fix it. We talk about coaching, leadership, culture and more. Thank you, Jeff for giving us the clarity we need to make better decisions.

Removing Workplace Friction with Stela Lupushor, Co-author of Humans at Work

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 17:36:20 -0000

In this episode of #TheWork, we have the good fortune to speak with book author and Conference Board Senior Fellow, Stela Lupushor. Stela has a sharp vision of what’s important at work: analytics, technology and the workplace experience. She discusses why there really isn’t a talent shortage yet companies are struggling to deliver on their business commitments. You’ll find her analysis of digital affluence particularly enlightening. Thanks for listening to and liking #TheWork.

Embracing Change in Talent Acquisition with GM's Kyle Lagunas

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 19:39:56 -0000

In this episode of #TheWork, we have the pleasure of speaking with Kyle Lagunas, Head of Talent Attraction, Sourcing & Insight at General Motors. Kyle is spearheading GM's zero emissions talent pipeline: zero waste, highly efficient, super modernized, and future-proof while also ensuring that candidates receive a world-class experience. It's always a good day when you can learn from one of the #HRTech industry's leaders. We hope you'll like and share the latest from #TheWork.

Creating and Driving Innovation in Talent Assessment with Dr. Charles Handler

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 22:13:48 -0000

In this episode of #TheWork, we have the good fortune of speaking with Dr. Charles Handler. Charles is a highly visible futurist and evangelist for the talent assessment space. Throughout his career, he has been on the forefront of innovation in the talent assessment space, applying his sound foundation in psychometrics to helping drive innovation in assessments through the use of gaming, social media, big data, and other advanced technologies.

Job posts suck. Katrina Kibben, CEO of Three Ears Media is Helping Companies Fix This Problem.

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 20:08:11 -0000

Katrina Kibben creates impact on people. They know that job post strategies haven't changed in the last 100+ years, resulting in 100-year-old biases. As the world’s leading expert in writing better job postings, they teach companies how to remove bias, why adding pronouns matter, and about creating more inclusive candidate experiences. And, in this episode, Kat talks about being a ninja and John Sumser tells us about his short-lived career as a door-to-door Santa Claus. You’ll have to listen to hear more.

Meeting and Exceeding Employee Expectations with Randy Womack, CEO of Socrates.ai

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 22:53:21 -0000

Randy Womack has 30+ years of SaaS/healthcare/operations expertise and three IPOs among his many accomplishments. It's no wonder that he understands what makes people feel connected, valued and so much more significant than their employee ID. In this episode of #TheWork, he talks about bridging the gap between our jobs and our lives and the roles that artificial intelligence, content management and good old-fashioned common sense play.

Spatial Computing, Immersive Learning and Skills Mobility with Kyle Jackson, CEO of Talespin

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 22:06:46 -0000

Turns out, working in the Metaverse is closer than you think. In this episode of #TheWork, we chat with Kyle Jackson, co-founder and CEO of Talespin. His company leverages immersive technology to rethink how people learn new skills and measure skill competencies, and in turn, puts a new foundation in place for professional development that helps people and organizations keep up with business transformation. It was a fascinating discussion and one you won’t want to miss.

Helping Companies Deliver on Business Strategies with Mimi Brooks, CEO of Logical Design Solutions

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:51:25 -0000

CEO of Logical Design Solutions (LDS), Mimi Brooks, helps organizations think through organizational design and worker experience. A brilliant strategist, she drives opportunities for bridging across the enterprise and prioritizes high-value initiatives. Listen to this episode of #TheWork to think out of the box about competing in a digital world.

Scenario Planning & Thinking the Unthinkable with Michael Kannisto, Ph.D.

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:11:27 -0000

Having started his career as a research chemist, Michael Kannisto applies a similarly disciplined and science-based approach to the fields of Recruiting and Talent Management. He’s also the Founder and Scenario Director at Mindemic Lab, a think tank dedicated to exploring the future of social constructs such as art, relationships, mental wellness, and disability. In this episode of #TheWork, Michael challenges us to consider the unthinkable, especially as we attempt to use today's thinking to define the future of work.

Moving Data from Transactional to Predictive with Shon Burton of HiringSolved

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 19:00:35 -0000

There’s no dispute that workforce decisions are being made every day based on data. How can we be sure that this data is accurate? What about circumstances where there’s no data to support the decisions we need to make? Our guest Shon Burton discusses talent intelligence and the business improvements that can be made when staffing agencies and HR professionals – and HR technology tools – move data beyond transactional to predictive.

Jon Stross of Greenhouse & Better Hiring Decisions With Structured Interviews

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 18:56:11 -0000

Using interviewing data to make better recruiting decisions seems so logical. Leaving the process to chance - dismissing structured interviews as navel-gazing instead of science - sends a negative message to job candidates plus wastes precious time and resources. Our guest Jon Stross shares how structured interviews can result in a better organization and why process changes can be an important part of HR technology buying decisions.

The Mom Journey and Career Lessons with Jenn Ravalli, VP, Marketing, PandoLogic

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 19:38:21 -0000

In this heartfelt episode of #TheWork, Jenn Ravalli, VP of Marketing at PandoLogic, shares the best and worst of her personal journey through infertility and a high-powered career. She shares the range of emotions, including guilt, sorrow, frustration and elation while giving listeners the encouragement to give yourself grace and expect support. We shouldn't have to set our careers back to become parents. We agree, Jenn!

Putting People at the Center of Business with Meg Bear, Chief Product Officer, SAP SuccessFactors

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 03:12:15 -0000

Kicking off the inaugural episode of TheWork, co-hosts John Sumser and Jeanne Achille welcome SAP’s Chief Product Officer, Meg Bear. Together, they unpack how work is changing and how the resulting discomfort is creating learning and impacting product design. Oh, and Meg also lets us know why her colleagues consider her to be the Roy Kent of SAP SuccessFactors. We hope you’ll enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording this one.

#TheWork with Larry Dunivan, CEO of Namely

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:42:31 -0000

Leading during challenging times means asking hard questions and doing hard work. Who are we? Where are we going? Larry Dunivan shares the building blocks of culture change, from strong employee resource groups to relying on his own kids as a great source of inspiration. In this episode of #TheWork, you'll learn how he ensures that every employee's viewpoint is respected.

#TheWork with Myra Norton, President and CEO at Arena Analytics

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 21:05:10 -0000

Myra Norton has been described as a mathematician with a superb sense of social. She ran student affairs at Temple University; taught at the U.S. Naval Academy; and, most recently, has been leading Arena Analytics in Baltimore, MD. She says she's a recovering academic who thinks talent is distributed but opportunity is not. Listen to this episode of #TheWork to learn how to remove historical hiring bias and especially why women shouldn't buy into the narrative that they're not good in math and science.