

HR BESTIES
HR Besties
Get ready to mix business and bullsh*t with the HR Besties - your favorite watercooler crew! Join Leigh Henderson (@hrmanifesto), Jamie Jackson (@humorous_resources and @millennial_misery), and Ashley Herd (@managermethod) for the staff meeting you actually WANT to attend. We have a full agenda to discuss every Wednesday and don’t worry, we’ll stick to your hard stop. On Fridays, you’re invited to meet up with us for Happy Hour to celebrate surviving another week of work!Visit our website at www.hrbesties.com and follow us on the socials (@hrbestiespod) for sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes fun!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 6, 2025 • 42min
HR Besties: Coping With Job Loss
Today’s agenda:
HR Worsties
Cringe corporate speak: difficult but necessary
Hot topic: all things layoffs, job loss and coping with uncertainty and a big transition
Taking the time to heal and reach out for support
Not only the loss of benefits, but perhaps self worth and identity
Letting it in and letting it out - taking the time to process or be upset is more than okay
Letting go of the control over the situation
Honesty = respect. Leaders should approach tough conversations with empathy and respect for team members
Questions/Comments
Your To-Do List: Grab merch, submit Questions & Comments, and make sure that you’re the first to know about our In-Person Meetings (events!) at https://www.hrbesties.com.
Follow your Besties across the socials and check out our resumes here: https://www.hrbesties.com/about.
Subscribe to the HR Besties Newsletter - https://hr-besties.beehiiv.com/subscribe
We look forward to seeing you in our next meeting - don’t worry, we’ll have a hard stop!
Yours in Business + Bullsh*t,
Leigh, Jamie & Ashley
Follow Bestie Leigh!
https://www.tiktok.com/@hrmanifesto
https://www.instagram.com/hrmanifesto
https://www.hrmanifesto.com
Follow Bestie Ashley!
https://www.tiktok.com/@managermethod
https://www.instagram.com/managermethod
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/
https://managermethod.com
Follow Bestie Jamie!
https://www.millennialmisery.com/
Humorous Resources: Instagram • YouTube • Threads • Facebook • X
Millennial Misery: Instagram • Threads • Facebook • X
Horrendous HR: Instagram • Threads • Facebook
Tune in to “HR Besties,” a business, work and management podcast hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson (HRManifesto), Ashley Herd (ManagerMethod) and Jamie Jackson (Humorous_Resources), where we navigate the labyrinth of corporate culture, from cringe corporate speak to toxic leadership. Whether you’re in Human Resources or not, corporate or small business, we offer sneak peeks into surviving work, hiring strategies, and making the employee experience better for all. Tune in for real talk on employee engagement, green flags in the workplace, and how to turn red flags into real change. Don't miss our chats about leadership, career coaching, and takes from work travel and watercooler gossip. Get new episodes every Wednesday, follow us on socials for the latest updates, and join us at our virtual happy hours to share your HR stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

6 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 41min
HR Besties: Work Life Balance
Today’s agenda:
Workplace wubbie
Cringe corporate speak: core competency
Hot topic: all things work-life balance - who is responsible and is it achievable?
What does work-life balance look like to us?
The B word (boundaries)
Unbalanced power dynamics - work-life balance is a shared responsibility but not always an equal opportunity
Balance is fluid and circumstantial
Questions/Comments
We'll be back for season 6 in August, Besties! Until then, we're due for a little R&R...
Your To-Do List: Grab merch, submit Questions & Comments, and make sure that you’re the first to know about our In-Person Meetings (events!) at https://www.hrbesties.com.
Follow your Besties across the socials and check out our resumes here: https://www.hrbesties.com/about.
Subscribe to the HR Besties Newsletter - https://hr-besties.beehiiv.com/subscribe
We look forward to seeing you in our next meeting - don’t worry, we’ll have a hard stop!
Yours in Business + Bullsh*t,
Leigh, Jamie & Ashley
Follow Bestie Leigh!
https://www.tiktok.com/@hrmanifesto
https://www.instagram.com/hrmanifesto
https://www.hrmanifesto.com
Follow Bestie Ashley!
https://www.tiktok.com/@managermethod
https://www.instagram.com/managermethod
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/
https://managermethod.com
Follow Bestie Jamie!
https://www.millennialmisery.com/
Humorous Resources: Instagram • YouTube • Threads • Facebook • X
Millennial Misery: Instagram • Threads • Facebook • X
Horrendous HR: Instagram • Threads • Facebook
Tune in to “HR Besties,” a business, work and management podcast hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson (HRManifesto), Ashley Herd (ManagerMethod) and Jamie Jackson (Humorous_Resources), where we navigate the labyrinth of corporate culture, from cringe corporate speak to toxic leadership. Whether you’re in Human Resources or not, corporate or small business, we offer sneak peeks into surviving work, hiring strategies, and making the employee experience better for all. Tune in for real talk on employee engagement, green flags in the workplace, and how to turn red flags into real change. Don't miss our chats about leadership, career coaching, and takes from work travel and watercooler gossip. Get new episodes every Wednesday, follow us on socials for the latest updates, and join us at our virtual happy hours to share your HR stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

12 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 36min
HR Besties: Toxic Positivity
Dive into the intriguing world of toxic positivity and its impact on workplace culture. Explore how the relentless push for #goodvibesonly can lead to neglecting genuine feelings. Discover the delicate balance between hope and hype, and why feeling safe to express concerns is crucial. Hear laughter-filled stories that dissect cringe-worthy corporate jargon, while emphasizing the importance of authentic communication. Learn how to navigate the challenges of fostering emotional wellness amidst organizational dynamics.

11 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 46min
HR Besties: Workhuman Live 2025 with KeyAnna Schmiedl
KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman, joins to explore the fascinating intersection of AI and the workplace. They discuss how AI can enhance productivity while ensuring the human touch remains vital. KeyAnna emphasizes the need for transparency, humility, and authenticity in HR roles as technology evolves. The conversation is enriched with humor and personal stories, highlighting the balance between embracing AI's efficiency and prioritizing emotional support in professional settings.

Jun 4, 2025 • 35min
HR Besties: Our Top Ten Most Memorable Cringe Corporate Speak Moments
How many of these have you heard in your workplace, Besties?
Open kimono
New sheriff in town
Out of pocket
Too many balls in the air
Bang it out
More to come
Executive presence
Ducks in a row
We're like family
Your To-Do List: Grab merch, submit Questions & Comments, and make sure that you’re the first to know about our In-Person Meetings (events!) at https://www.hrbesties.com.
Follow your Besties across the socials and check out our resumes here: https://www.hrbesties.com/about.
Subscribe to the HR Besties Newsletter - https://hr-besties.beehiiv.com/subscribe
We look forward to seeing you in our next meeting - don’t worry, we’ll have a hard stop!
Yours in Business + Bullsh*t,
Leigh, Jamie & Ashley
Follow Bestie Leigh!
https://www.tiktok.com/@hrmanifesto
https://www.instagram.com/hrmanifesto
https://www.hrmanifesto.com
Follow Bestie Ashley!
https://www.tiktok.com/@managermethod
https://www.instagram.com/managermethod
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/
https://managermethod.com
Follow Bestie Jamie!
https://www.millennialmisery.com/
Humorous Resources: Instagram • YouTube • Threads • Facebook • X
Millennial Misery: Instagram • Threads • Facebook • X
Horrendous HR: Instagram • Threads • Facebook
Tune in to “HR Besties,” a business, work and management podcast hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson (HRManifesto), Ashley Herd (ManagerMethod) and Jamie Jackson (Humorous_Resources), where we navigate the labyrinth of corporate culture, from cringe corporate speak to toxic leadership. Whether you’re in Human Resources or not, corporate or small business, we offer sneak peeks into surviving work, hiring strategies, and making the employee experience better for all. Tune in for real talk on employee engagement, green flags in the workplace, and how to turn red flags into real change. Don't miss our chats about leadership, career coaching, and takes from work travel and watercooler gossip. Get new episodes every Wednesday, follow us on socials for the latest updates, and join us at our virtual happy hours to share your HR stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

6 snips
May 28, 2025 • 46min
HR Besties: Our Top Ten Most Memorable (and Cringe) Watercooler Stories
This episode dives into hilarious workplace antics, from a disastrous salad bar to an employee caught pantless after a chaotic night. Expect laughs about a child hiding at work and an office earthquake drill gone wrong. They tackle the absurdities of potlucks and share how a growl helped ease tension. Miscommunication in emails gets a funny twist, while staff engagement strategies feature eye-catching subject lines. And don't miss the jaw-dropping expense report that includes a Plan B pill!

10 snips
May 21, 2025 • 42min
HR Besties: How to Make the Most of Paid Time Off
Amidst laughter and camaraderie, the hosts dive into hilarious vacation tales, including a trip to Miami gone wild. They share insightful strategies for maximizing time off, tackling cringe-worthy corporate jargon along the way. The importance of disconnecting during vacations for mental well-being is highlighted, alongside tips for creating a supportive environment for team members. The discussion explores the complexities of unlimited PTO policies and emphasizes that time off should mean true rest—not just a shift in focus.

8 snips
May 14, 2025 • 38min
HR Besties: Coaching Difficult Coworkers (Without Losing Your Mind)
Navigating toxic coworkers is a tough journey, but there are effective strategies! Discover how to define 'difficult' in the workplace and the importance of assuming good intentions. The discussion touches on the perils of gatekeeping and how transparency fosters a healthier environment. Personal stories highlight the power of kindness, showing that even small gestures can transform dynamics. Plus, learn when it's necessary to document issues and prioritize your own peace amidst challenges!

10 snips
May 7, 2025 • 41min
HR Besties: Why HR is Needed with Matt Taylor, President of Guardian HR
Matt Taylor, President of Guardian HR, sheds light on why HR is essential for organizations. He emphasizes proactive communication and effective relationships between employees and employers. The discussion covers the evolving roles of HR, the future skills necessary for professionals, and the impact of AI on the sector. Taylor also addresses the challenges of burnout in HR and the importance of maintaining work-life balance. His insights aim to redefine HR as a strategic partner in thriving workplaces.

5 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 40min
HR Besties: Start Ups 101
Today’s agenda:
The manual of me
Cringe corporate speak: take it offline
Hot topic: all things start-ups: how to be successful, key traits and how to survive in an evolving organization
What is it like working as an HR professional in a start-up?
Reactivity vs. proactivity
Working in an unpredictable and evolving environment can be an effective way to grow in your career
Opportunities to build departments from the ground up
RSUs and equity
Informing and influencing on the job - it's not for everybody
How do HR and all other business professionals, employees and leaders help shape a healthy startup culture?
Questions/Comments
Your To-Do List: Grab merch, submit Questions & Comments, and make sure that you’re the first to know about our In-Person Meetings (events!) at https://www.hrbesties.com.
Follow your Besties across the socials and check out our resumes here: https://www.hrbesties.com/about.
Subscribe to the HR Besties Newsletter - https://hr-besties.beehiiv.com/subscribe
We look forward to seeing you in our next meeting - don’t worry, we’ll have a hard stop!
Yours in Business + Bullsh*t,
Leigh, Jamie & Ashley
Follow Bestie Leigh!
https://www.tiktok.com/@hrmanifesto
https://www.instagram.com/hrmanifesto
https://www.hrmanifesto.com
Follow Bestie Ashley!
https://www.tiktok.com/@managermethod
https://www.instagram.com/managermethod
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/
https://managermethod.com
Follow Bestie Jamie!
https://www.millennialmisery.com/
Humorous Resources: Instagram • YouTube • Threads • Facebook • X
Millennial Misery: Instagram • Threads • Facebook • X
Horrendous HR: Instagram • Threads • Facebook
Tune in to “HR Besties,” a business, work and management podcast hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson (HRManifesto), Ashley Herd (ManagerMethod) and Jamie Jackson (Humorous_Resources), where we navigate the labyrinth of corporate culture, from cringe corporate speak to toxic leadership. Whether you’re in Human Resources or not, corporate or small business, we offer sneak peeks into surviving work, hiring strategies, and making the employee experience better for all. Tune in for real talk on employee engagement, green flags in the workplace, and how to turn red flags into real change. Don't miss our chats about leadership, career coaching, and takes from work travel and watercooler gossip. Get new episodes every Wednesday, follow us on socials for the latest updates, and join us at our virtual happy hours to share your HR stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices