
HRchat Podcast
Listen to the HRchat Podcast by HR Gazette to get insights and tips from HR leaders, influencers and tech experts. Topics covered include HR Tech, HR, AI, Leadership, Talent, Recruitment, Employee Engagement, Recognition, Wellness, DEI, and Company Culture.Hosted by Bill Banham, Bob Goodwin, Pauline James, and other HR enthusiasts, the HRchat show publishes interviews with influencers, leaders, analysts, and those in the HR trenches 2-4 times each week. The show is approaching 1000 episodes and past guests are from organizations including ADP, SAP, Ceridian, IBM, UPS, Deloitte Consulting LLP, Simon Sinek Inc, NASA, Gartner, SHRM, Government of Canada, Hacking HR, McLean & Company, UPS, Microsoft, Shopify, DisruptHR, McKinsey and Co, Virgin Pulse, Salesforce, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Coca-Cola Beverages Company.Want to be featured on the show? Learn more here. Podcast Music Credit"Funky One"Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Latest episodes

Feb 5, 2025 • 22min
The Power of Data-Driven Strategies with Kristen Boyle, PeopleInsight by HireRoad
Implementing an effective DEI strategy relies on a deep understanding of your organization’s current position, the required steps for progress, and a reliable method for ongoing DEI metrics measurement. In this HRchat episode, we discuss why the numbers should determine leadership direction. In light of recent changes, we also consider if now is the time to double down on demonstrating the need for the DEI data. Bill's guest this time is Kristen Boyle, VP of Marketing at PeopleInsight by HireRoad, a leading people analytics solution. Kristen, joined the PeopleInsight by HireRoad team in January 2024 after serving as VP of Marketing at PandoLogic, B2B marketing lead for Amazon Ads, and climbing the marketing ranks at Indeed and Nielsen during peak growth periods. Kristen is a marketing strategist with a passion for insights-driven storytelling and leads the mission of telling HireRoad’s impressive story of growth and innovation.QuestionsPeopleInsight by HireRoad has seen big changes at the leadership level over the past 18 months. What are some of the challenges and opportunities that come with a fresh leadership team? You believe that "a data-driven strategy is no longer optional... Anyone who is in the throes of year-end reporting knows what I'm talking about". What did you mean by that?In light of recent political decisions and the broader pullback on DEI efforts across industries, the urgency to back DEI initiatives with data has perhaps never been more critical. Why is NOT collecting (specifically) DEI data no longer an option? Can you share some ways PeopleInsight provides the DEI data that can correctly inform business decisions?What are some of the primary challenges your team has seen HR professionals face when adopting data-driven decision-making (and how does PeopleInsight help address them)?Why did HireRoad decide to publish The State of People Analytics 2025, and what do you hope readers will take away from it?The ebook mentions that only 22% of organizations rate their people analytics as “very effective.” What advice from the ebook would you offer to companies aiming to build a more robust data-driven HR function?Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Feb 3, 2025 • 19min
Embracing AI and Reducing Bias with Torin Ellis
Ever wondered how AI can transform HR practices? Get ready to explore its potential to revolutionize employee communication and personalized learning and development. In this HRchat episode, Bill Banmham welcomes back the dynamic Torin Ellis. Listen as Torin shares insights from his co-authored report, "Reducing Bias in HR Using Artificial Intelligence," revealing both the triumphs and hesitations organizations face as they journey towards AI adoption. Discover how even small steps toward embracing AI can lead to significant enhancements in HR processes and boost employee engagement.Our conversation takes a dive into ethical AI implementation, especially in hiring, through our collaboration with Plum. Learn how their AI-driven tools are reshaping recruitment by reducing bias and ensuring fairness. We stress the importance of human oversight and the integration of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging into AI solutions. With shifting governmental attitudes towards DEIB, we explore why adopting a thoughtful approach is crucial. As we wrap up, we share insights on balancing professional and personal interactions, sprinkled with plans for an upcoming networking trip to Las Vegas. Don’t miss out on this episode packed with practical and forward-thinking strategies!Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 31, 2025 • 27min
Transforming the Workplace: Inclusivity and Accessibility with Lila Nazef
Curious how inclusivity can reshape your workplace? Join us for an insightful conversation with Lila Nazef, the accomplished Vice President of Sales and Marketing North America at Neocase. With nearly two decades of expertise in HR tech, Lila offers a wealth of knowledge on transforming HR service delivery into a more inclusive experience for employees. Tune in and discover how Neocase demystifies complex HR jargon, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their level of tech-savviness, can easily access crucial resources. As social movements continue to shape our understanding of inclusivity, Bill Banham and Lila examine how tools like Neocase are instrumental in crafting environments where inclusivity and efficiency go hand in hand. We also highlight the importance of designing mobile applications that meet advanced accessibility standards, ensuring that users can navigate HR processes seamlessly. From AI integration to real-world feedback, this episode is packed with insights on how technology is revolutionizing the employee experience, making it as pivotal now as it was during the height of the COVID era. Questions For Lila Include:Managing inclusivity is a key priority for HR decision-makers; can you outline the characteristics of this challenge?You mentioned that there’s a balancing act between inclusivity and efficiency. In times of conflict should efficiency always win out?SHRM last year removed the E from DEI and instead now focuses more on inclusivity and civility. What does civility in the workplace mean to you and is SHRM right to place an emphasis on it? What are the recent innovations introduced by Neocase to promote inclusivity?How do you measure the effectiveness of your solutions?We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 29, 2025 • 23min
Transformative Learning and the Future of HR with Sarah Danzl, Skillable
In this HRchat episode, we look at ways to provide employees with the tools to build and validate skills to drive business performance.Bill Banham's guest is Sarah Danzl, Chief Marketing Officer at Skillable, a company that helps pros create hands-on experiences that connect learning to work, validate employee skills, and accelerate job readiness.Unlock the secrets of transformative learning as Sarah guides us through the revolution in skills development. Sarah shares her expertise on blending innovative technologies with traditional training methods to cater to diverse learning styles, making a bold promise to equip individuals and organizations for growth. From her passion for philanthropy to advocating for neurodiversity, Sarah reveals how Skillable is changing the HR landscape with its hands-on experiential learning approach. With the integration of AI, and the challenges posed by market volatility, she emphasizes the shift towards a skills-based approach, highlighting how validated skills are becoming more valuable than traditional metrics.The conversation also looks at the future of remote work culture, as we discuss the balance between virtual and in-person interactions. Explore how scenario-based training can develop practical skills and the importance of customized learning experiences tailored to organizational needs. We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 21, 2025 • 31min
Creating a Safe and Empowering Workplace with John Ferguson, NASCAR
Can leaders truly create an environment where employees feel safe to share their mental health challenges? Join us on the HR Chat Show as John Ferguson, Chief Human Resources Officer at NASCAR, shares insights into how workplace culture is transforming with the entry of Gen Z. Through personal stories and professional experiences, John discusses the importance of leaders modeling transparency and support, creating a culture where employees can bring their whole selves to work without fear of judgment. Listen as Bob Goodwin and John explore how the balance between professional duties and personal life is critical for mental wellness, emphasizing the value of empathy, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in navigating these evolving dynamics.Discover the power of personal agency and autonomy as we delve into how these play essential roles in both personal development and workplace empowerment. By fostering an environment that supports growth and work-life balance, organizations not only benefit current employees but also cultivate future brand ambassadors. We discuss the importance of maintaining a strong sense of self and a guiding "North Star" to help navigate life's challenges, especially amid the ongoing changes since 2020. Insights from Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" illustrate how purpose can be found even in adversity, encouraging a mindset that embraces change while holding onto core values and self-awareness.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 17, 2025 • 20min
Powering Up Your Payroll with Sriram Ganesan, Rippling
In this HRchat episode, we look at building a first-rate payroll product. My guest today is Sriram Ganesan, Senior Director of Engineering at Rippling, a company on a mission to help customers increase savings, automate busy work, and make better decisions by managing payroll, HR, IT & spending in one place.Unlock the secrets to freeing up your HR team's time and enhancing strategic thinking with Sriram. Join us as we uncover how Rippling is transforming payroll, HR, IT, and spending management with cutting-edge technology. From Sriram's journey from Rippling's insurance team to leading the global payroll team, discover how they simplify complex processes and eliminate the tedium of manual tasks, allowing HR professionals to focus on what truly matters.Explore how Rippling is breaking down barriers for companies looking to expand globally. Sriram reveals Rippling's dual approach: the Employment of Record (EOR) for seamless international hiring and a robust software solution that centralizes essential HR functions. Embrace the efficiency of Rippling's interconnected ecosystem, where manual data entry becomes a thing of the past. Much like Apple's renowned integration, Rippling's holistic approach is designed to empower organizations to solve more complex problems and thrive in the global market.Understand the intricacies of building a successful payroll technology product. Our conversation with Sriram dives into the critical components, such as ensuring timely and accurate employee payments and crafting a system that addresses payment queries with clarity. Learn the importance of having a contingency plan and why proactive communication with customers is crucial. We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 15, 2025 • 20min
Labor laws and Staying Compliant with Jocelyn King, VirgilHR
The guest this time is Jocelyn King, CEO and Founder of VirgilHR, a SaaS solution that empowers HR professionals to make smart, compliant employment and labor law decisions in real time. HR has been the passion and focus of Jocelyn’s entire career as she’s supported high-growth technology start-ups and public companies throughout her tenure. She defines herself as a true HR generalist and has touched on all aspects of HR in her senior roles. Jocelyn has strong expertise in creating and executing HR strategy, managing employee relations for multi-state and global organizations, developing a diverse and high-performing work culture, owning organization development and change management, and crafting the total reward, talent development, and talent acquisition strategies.Questions for Jocelyn include: What unique challenges do HR professionals face when it comes to staying compliant with employment and labor laws, and how does VirgilHR address these issues differently from traditional methods?With the thousands of federal, state, and local laws constantly evolving, how does VirgilHR ensure that its platform remains up-to-date and accurate in real time?Any big compliance changes HR pros in the US can expect in the next 3-6 months? One key area for compliance is leave management and wage and hour laws. In one minute or less, how does VirgilHR support HR teams in navigating these complex areas?1 in 10 employers is sued every year by their employees and US employers spend over $14B a year on outside legal counsel. How does VirgilHR’s solution reduce risk and liability for organizations, and what kind of feedback have you received from clients regarding reduced legal costs or avoided settlements?What advice would you give to HR leaders who are overwhelmed with compliance challenges? We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 14, 2025 • 24min
How AI is Transforming Human Resources with John Kannapell, CYPHER Learning
Join John Kannapell, President and COO of CYPHER Learning, as he discusses the transformative role of AI in HR. He emphasizes the need for ethical AI practices, stressing transparency and communication between HR and employees. John also highlights the importance of sustainability, sharing insights on how AI can drive energy-efficient initiatives. Learn about the vital role HR professionals play in navigating AI implementations and fostering employee engagement, ensuring that technology aligns with organizational values.

Jan 10, 2025 • 31min
AI's Transformation of Talent Acquisition with Serge Boudreau
Curious about how AI is reshaping the world of talent acquisition and what that means for aspiring recruiters? Tune in as Serge Boudreau, Vice President of Global Agency Partnerships at C Squared Technology, shares his seasoned insights from two decades in the industry. With the rise of AI, discover how traditional roles are transforming and what it takes to thrive in this rapidly evolving field. Serge delves into the shifting demand for recruiters, offering a unique perspective on the profession's future and recounting memorable moments from his podcasting venture with Recruitment Flex.From streamlining resume screening to the rise of "lazy apply" tools, AI is both a boon and a challenge in talent acquisition. We explore the crucial balance between quantity and quality in recruitment, revealing how companies can navigate the overwhelming influx of applicants to find the perfect match. As AI takes on more roles, maintaining a genuine human touch becomes essential. Listen and learn about the value of human interaction and creativity in the recruitment process, and join us in anticipating the innovations on the horizon that promise to redefine how organizations attract and nurture talent.We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Jan 9, 2025 • 24min
Top Trends Shaping Your Talent Strategy in 2025 with Jennifer McClure
Discover the future of talent strategy with the trailblazing Jennifer McClure, co-founder of DisruptHR, as she takes us on her journey from corporate HR executive to dynamic global speaker and innovator in the HR community. Listen as Jennifer and Bill Banham discuss the worldwide impact of DisruptHR, now flourishing in 30+ countries, including fresh chapters in Nairobi and Tanzania. Jennifer shares insights on launching your own chapter, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity. We dive into the transformative trends predicted for 2025, offering a roadmap for those aiming to revolutionize their HR practices.The conversation also ventures into the evolving landscape of the workforce, highlighting the need for skills development, mental health support, and fostering DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging). Jennifer stresses the importance of continuous learning and empathetic leadership amidst rapid technological advances, urging organizations to nurture existing talent and prepare for future demands. Explore strategic workforce planning as a tool for enhancing employee engagement and retention while navigating demographic shifts. Don't miss this enlightening discussion packed with actionable strategies to maintain competitiveness and foster a thriving, inclusive work environment.We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast and Iceni Media Inc.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events
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