

HR Mixtape
Powered by Paylocity
Whether you’re buried in paperwork or just looking for a break from the grind, we’ve got your back with HR Mixtape. Tune in each week to hear thought-provoking interviews with industry leaders, compliance tips, coffee chats with human resources trendsetters, and the latest HR-related news. It’s like nothing else out there: it’s the perfect mix of practical advice and stories that just hit different so that work doesn’t have to feel like...well...work!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 16, 2025 • 16min
Nutrition and Productivity: Wellness Coaching in the Workplace with Danielle Dinkelman
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Danielle Dinkelman, co-founder and CEO of Advanced Corporate Wellness. They delve into the critical role of wellness coaching in enhancing employee experience and combating burnout, a timely topic as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Danielle shares her personal journey into wellness coaching and highlights how companies can invest in their employees' health to improve retention and productivity.
Learn how wellness coaching can bridge the gap between information and application for employees.
Discover why investing in employee well-being is not just altruistic but a smart business strategy.
Explore strategies for creating a psychologically safe environment that fosters open communication and stress management.
Hit “Play” to gain insights that could transform your organization’s approach to employee wellness!
Guest(s): Danielle Dinkelman, Co-founder and CEO, Advanced Corporate Wellness

Sep 9, 2025 • 20min
Supporting Working Caregivers: Balancing Family and Productivity with James Atkinson
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership for the Society of Human Resource Management. They delve into the pressing issue of working caregivers, a topic that has gained urgency as over 50 million individuals balance professional responsibilities with caregiving for children, adults with chronic conditions, and the elderly. This conversation is particularly insightful as it highlights the evolving landscape of employee experience and the need for inclusive leadership in supporting caregivers, especially in light of the ongoing shifts in workforce demographics.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to identify the unique needs of caregivers within your organization.
Discover why flexibility in workplace policies can enhance productivity and retention.
Explore strategies for embedding a culture of support that benefits all employees.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on how to better support working caregivers in your organization!
Guest(s): James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership, Society of Human Resource Management

Sep 2, 2025 • 23min
Human-AI Collaboration: Redefining HR Practices with Dr. Dieter Veldsman
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist at AIHR. They delve into the integration of AI in HR practices, emphasizing the importance of managing the narrative around AI to alleviate fears and enhance employee experience. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of AI adoption while striving for inclusive leadership and data-driven decision-making.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to effectively introduce AI into your talent strategies without overwhelming your team.
Discover why understanding the ethical implications of AI is crucial for fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Explore strategies for enhancing data literacy within HR to leverage analytics for better decision-making.
Hit “Play” to gain insights on transforming HR practices with AI!
Guest(s): Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist, AIHR

Aug 26, 2025 • 19min
Inside the Shift: How Leadership Styles are Evolving Post-Pandemic with Dr. David Cohen
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. David Cohen, founder and senior consultant of DS Cohen and Associates. They dive into the concept of agile leadership and its relevance in today’s evolving workplace, particularly in light of shifting employee expectations post-pandemic. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee experience and foster inclusive leadership while navigating the complexities of AI in HR.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how aligning organizational values with hiring practices can boost employee retention and engagement.
Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for modern leaders to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments.
Explore strategies for fostering a culture of learning from failure to drive innovation and growth.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and HR practices!
Guest(s): Dr. David Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen and Associates

Aug 19, 2025 • 22min
Authentic Allyship: Moving Beyond Performative Gestures in the Workplace with Dr. Steve Yacovelli
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Steve Yacovelli, owner and principal of Top Dog Learning Group, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of authentic allyship in the workplace, contrasting it with performative gestures often seen in organizations. This conversation is particularly timely as companies face increasing pressure to foster inclusive leadership and diverse cultures, especially with the rise of Gen Z in the workforce. Dr. Yacovelli shares insights on how organizations can genuinely support LGBTQ+ employees and the importance of aligning corporate values with actions.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to identify and combat performative allyship in your organization.
Discover why inclusive leadership is essential for employee experience and retention.
Explore strategies for fostering a culture of accountability and respect in the workplace.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on creating a truly inclusive environment!
Guest(s): Dr. Steve Yacovelli, Owner and Principal, Top Dog Learning Group, LLC

Aug 12, 2025 • 21min
Why HR Must Keep Its Head on a Swivel in Today's Climate with Louis Lessig
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Louis Lessig, a Labor and Employment Litigator at Brown and Connery, LLP. They delve into the pressing legal risks that HR professionals often underestimate, including retaliation, intermittent leave, and the critical need for effective management training. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the evolving landscape of remote work policies, especially in light of AI's growing influence in HR.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to proactively address retaliation and its impact on organizational risk.
Discover why effective management training is essential for mitigating legal issues.
Explore strategies for developing comprehensive social media and remote work policies.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you enhance your HR practices and protect your organization!
Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Labor and Employment Litigator, Brown and Connery, LLP

Aug 5, 2025 • 28min
Evolving Competencies: HR in a Data-Driven World with Dr. Alex Alonso
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer for the Society for Human Resource Management. They delve into the evolving landscape of HR competencies and the critical role of data analytics in shaping employee experience and inclusive leadership. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly leverage AI in HR to drive strategic transformation and enhance workforce readiness.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to identify competencies that are becoming obsolete and those that are essential for future HR success.
Discover why integrating AI into HR practices can revolutionize talent management and employee engagement.
Explore strategies for utilizing data analytics to inform decision-making and drive organizational change.
Hit “Play” to gain insights that can elevate your HR practice!
Guest(s): Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Society for Human Resource Management

Jul 29, 2025 • 25min
Cultivating a People-First Culture in Startups with Nahed Khairallah
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Nahed Khairallah, a global HR strategist and founder of Organized Chaos. They delve into the complexities of building effective HR departments in fast-growing startups, emphasizing the importance of a proactive, people-first approach. This conversation is timely as organizations increasingly recognize the need for inclusive leadership and strategic HR practices to enhance employee experience and drive business success.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to balance structure and flexibility in HR to support rapid growth.
Discover why psychological safety is crucial in fast-paced environments.
Explore strategies for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the core of your organization from day one.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR approach and empower your organization!
Guest(s): Nahed Khairallah, Global HR Strategist, Organized Chaos

Jul 22, 2025 • 24min
Purpose Over Prestige: What Modern Leaders Value in the Workplace with Leslie Vickrey
In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Leslie Vickrey, CEO of ClearEdge, to discuss the myths surrounding women's advancement in leadership. This timely conversation sheds light on the outdated beliefs that hinder women's progress in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of visibility, networking, and redefining success on their own terms. Leslie's insights into inclusive leadership and the need for strategic sponsorship make this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in enhancing the employee experience and fostering a diverse workplace.
Listener Takeaways:
Learn how to challenge the myth that women don't want top jobs due to family responsibilities.
Discover why hard work alone isn't enough for career advancement and the importance of self-advocacy.
Explore strategies for building a supportive network that empowers women in leadership roles.
Hit "Play" to gain valuable insights and empower your journey in leadership!
Guest(s): Leslie Vickrey, CEO, ClearEdge

Jul 15, 2025 • 26min
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Preparing Employers with Kurt Shoemaker
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations at Paylocity. They dive into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a significant piece of legislation that impacts payroll, tax deductions, and employee benefits. This conversation is timely as employers navigate the complexities of compliance with new regulations, especially regarding paid family leave and tax deductions for overtime and tips.
Kurt's insights provide clarity on how these changes will affect employee experience and organizational practices.
Learn how the OBBBA affects tax deductions for overtime and tips.
Discover why employers need to stay informed about compliance changes.
Explore strategies for leveraging new benefits to enhance employee engagement.
Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that will help you adapt to the evolving HR landscape!
Guest: Kurt Shoemaker, Director of Compliance and Government Relations, Paylocity


