
Punk Rock HR
Welcome to the Punk Rock HR Podcast, hosted by the influential and unconventional Laurie Ruettimann. This podcast breaks away from the traditional constraints of the HR world to bring you candid and compelling conversations with some of the most disruptive and innovative minds in the business. Each episode, Laurie dives deep into critical topics surrounding the real world of work, exploring the modern workplace's nuances, and challenging the status quo of HR.Guests range from renowned thought leaders, authors, and entrepreneurs to HR professionals and individuals who have reshaped the way we approach work and organizational culture. Punk Rock HR is not your usual HR talk. It’s a blend of insight, wit, and irreverence, aiming to bring a fresh, unfiltered perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing today’s workforce.Whether you’re an HR professional looking to revamp your approach, a leader trying to understand the people side of the business better, or just someone interested in the dynamics of the modern workplace, this podcast is your ticket to engaging discussions and actionable insights. Expect energizing conversations, guests with big ideas, and a punk rock twist, with episodes released every Monday.Follow the Punk Rock HR Podcast to keep your finger on the pulse of work, leadership, and human resources. Your journey towards a more progressive and enlightened workspace starts here!
Latest episodes

Dec 16, 2024 • 41min
284: HR Like a Boss with John Bernatovicz
In this episode of Punk Rock HR, Laurie welcomes John Bernatovicz, who shares the journey of his multifaceted life, emphasizing how his personal values guide him through the unpredictable world of business and family. From his son's budding career in landscape design to his daughter's artistic pursuits, John’s deep familial ties are as foundational as his passion for golf, which has been a staple since childhood. His candid stories reveal how strong faith weaves through his life, shaping everything from personal growth to leadership.Laurie and John’s conversation then shifts gears to the transformative power of human resources within workplace culture, inspired by Laurie’s book “HR Like a Boss.” They discuss the significant role HR plays in shaping purpose-driven organizations that prioritize social responsibility and employee well-being alongside profitability. With insights on the triple bottom line, Laurie and John examine real-world examples like TOMS Shoes and the philanthropic journeys of Bill Gates and Warren Buffett. This episode shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of HR professionals who tirelessly cultivate positive work environments.Finally, Laurie and John address the need for a cultural shift in business leadership, particularly focusing on the gaps in traditional management training. By emphasizing empathy, curiosity, and compassion, they advocate for a new approach where managers are equally accountable for human relationships as they are for financial outcomes. John's story of founding Willory during a recession becomes a powerful lesson on resilience and the importance of community-building.As technology and social media continue to reshape our interactions, Laurie and John underscore the value of focusing on personal wellness for a rewarding and meaningful career.In this episode, you will hear:
John Bernatovicz on balancing faith, family, and business
Exploration of HR's transformative role in workplace culture
Importance of empathy, compassion, and curiosity in leadership
Challenges of traditional management training and its gaps
The significance of a purpose-driven approach in business
Predictions on the future of workplace culture and community
John’s insights on resilience and community-building from founding Willory
Resources from this Episode
John Bernatovicz’s website: www.johnbernatovicz.com
HR Like a Boss website: www.hrlikeaboss.com
Willory website: www.willory.com
Connect with John Bernatovicz on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johnbernatovicz
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Dec 3, 2024 • 42min
283: John Frehse is Obsessed With Work
What if the key to transforming your organization lies hidden within the voices of those you might be overlooking?In this episode of Punk Rock HR, John Frehse, a leader in global labor strategies at Ankura, is Laurie’s guest. Dressed to impress for the Journalism Freedom Awards, John brings a wealth of experience and a tuxedo to our discussion on the critical role of aligning labor strategies with both employee and organizational needs. From tackling employee burnout to navigating the complexities of financial distress and rapid growth, John shares actionable insights that promise to reshape how we think about workforce engagement.Throughout our conversation, we spotlight the unsung heroes of society—frontline workers. Often undervalued despite their pivotal roles, these workers hold the potential for enhanced performance and recognition when they feel truly heard. With anecdotes from factory floors and reflections on the journey from finance to labor consulting, we challenge the status quo and echo Viola Davis's call for appreciation of all workers. We question the entrenched perceptions that leave frontline workers in the shadows and explore the ripple effect of listening and acknowledgment in driving positive change.Laurie and John’s conversation uncovers the challenges facing today's HR professionals in a world of evolving workforce management, where personal experiences meet broader economic policies and social justice issues. We explore the tension between corporate values and business realities, encouraging HR leaders to step into the fray and wield their power through genuine listening. With humor and camaraderie, we wrap up by reminiscing about workplace banter and friendship, illustrating how authentic connections can shape our careers and organizations.Join us for a candid episode filled with laughter, gratitude, and a shared vision for a more inclusive and dynamic workforce.In this episode, you will hear:
Discussion on labor strategies and improving workforce conditions with John Frehse
Exploration of the critical role and recognition of frontline workers
Insights into balancing company needs with employee well-being to reduce burnout
Analysis of the interplay between economic policies, social justice, and workforce management
Examination of the transformative power of listening and acknowledgment in workplaces
Candid reflections on societal perceptions and undervaluation of frontline workers
Consideration of corporate authenticity and the impact of humor and friendship on workplace dynamics
Resources from this Episode
Ankura: ankura.com/experts-and-advisors/john-frehse
Connect with John Frehse on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johnfrehse
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Nov 11, 2024 • 52min
282: Jennifer McClure & The Defense Business Board
Have you ever received a voicemail you thought was spam, only to discover it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Jennifer McClure did, leading her to a pivotal role on the Defense Business Board.In this episode of Punk Rock HR, Jennifer shares her remarkable journey into the heart of the Department of Defense, where she navigates the unique challenges of managing talent in a vast organization that rivals the size of a major city. Despite the financial contrasts with the private sector, her story is one of passion for meaningful work and triumph over imposter syndrome, all while rubbing shoulders with accomplished figures and even a few unexpected celebrities.Jennifer also opens up about her political evolution, revealing how recent political climates have led many, especially women and Christians, to reevaluate their political affiliations. Her candid reflections reveal the complexities of reconciling personal faith with political choices and the shifting perspectives within traditionally conservative circles. Tune in for a conversation that underscores the importance of leadership and character over party lines while offering a glimpse into Jennifer’s aspirations for a leadership choice that appeals to the nation’s better angels.Throughout the episode, we tackle the role of the Department of Defense in global challenges such as cybersecurity and international cooperation. Jennifer provides an insider’s view of the intricate balance between government and private sector practices, emphasizing the need for collaboration to drive impactful change. From managing a workforce like no other to handling the unpredictability of political transitions, her insights offer a captivating look at the dedication required to serve in government roles.Join us for a thought-provoking discussion filled with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and a touch of humor that promises to leave you both informed and inspired.In this episode, you will hear:
Jennifer McClure's journey and experiences with the Defense Business Board and the Department of Defense
Navigating public service roles and the balance between private sector opportunities and meaningful government work
Shifts in political engagement and values among conservatives, especially women and Christians
The Department of Defense's multifaceted roles, including military and non-military activities like hurricane relief
Challenges of implementing change within the Department of Defense, influenced by political cycles and leadership transitions
Jennifer’s path to board membership and encounters with prominent figures
Global interconnectedness, U.S. defense priorities, and cybersecurity challenges
Resources from this Episode
Jennifer McClure’s website: jennifermcclure.net
Defense Business Board: dbb.defense.gov
Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclure
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.

Nov 4, 2024 • 34min
281: CHRO and Author Pat Wadors
Pat Wadors, an expert in the HR field, joins Laurie on Punk Rock HR to light the path from discovering a passion for human resources at just 19 to leading workplace cultures at giants like LinkedIn and UKG.Prepare to be inspired as Pat unpacks her insights into the critical role of managers in safeguarding employee well-being and the power of aligning corporate promises with reality. With stories from her tenure at LinkedIn and ServiceNow, Pat highlights how a commitment to culture and development can drive impressive business outcomes. Her vision for the future of HR prioritizes talent, leadership, and mental health, offering a roadmap for anyone eager to build healthy, high-performing workplaces.Navigating the dynamic landscapes of organizational change and growth, we explore the challenges and rewards of aligning leadership with a company's maturity curve. Pat emphasizes fostering inclusion and belonging as we consider the human cost of leadership transitions and cultural shifts. The conversation takes a creative turn, discussing using fables and folktales, like the story of Mulan, to impart valuable HR leadership lessons. Through this unique lens, we reflect on authenticity and the journey of learning from imperfections to lead effectively.This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and insight for those passionate about transforming the workplace into a more inclusive and effective environment.In this episode, you will hear:
Pat Wadors’s journey in HR, from discovering her passion at 19 to leading transformative cultures at LinkedIn and UKG
Managers’ role in employee well-being and aligning corporate promises with reality
Insights on navigating organizational change, emphasizing inclusion, belonging, and aligning leadership with a company's maturity curve
The use of fables and folktales, such as Mulan, to teach HR leadership lessons
The importance of authenticity and learning from imperfections
Pat Wadors’s new book, "Unlocking Your Leadership Story," which uses fables to impart leadership lessons
Driving change within traditional corporate structures and striving for high-performing, inclusive workplaces
Fostering diverse perspectives to create better business outcomes
The human cost of leadership transitions and cultural shifts
Resources from this Episode
Pat Wadors’s website: wadors.com
Get the “Unlocking Your Leadership Story” book: amzn.to/3YzuVb5
Connect with Pat on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/patwadors
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Jun 17, 2024 • 37min
280: The Critical Role of a Manager with Wisq
Can AI revolutionize how we lead and manage teams?On this episode of Punk Rock HR, Laurie sits down with Jim Barnett and Marc Maloy of Wisq to explore this question. From their successful stint with Glint, where they became leaders in employee engagement, to their current mission at Wisq, Jim and Marc share how AI is opening up continuous, personalized coaching to a broader audience. This episode uncovers the pivotal manager-employee relationship and how AI can create a more dynamic and thriving workplace.We'll also unpack the practical applications of Wisq, a groundbreaking AI tool that provides managers with personalized coaching and expert advice within platforms like Slack and Teams. By focusing on soft skills like trust, authenticity, compassion, and empathy, Wisq aims to transform managers into more effective and people-centric leaders. Jim and Marc passionately discuss how these skills can be developed with the right tools and mindset, ultimately creating better workplace dynamics.Don't miss this deep dive into the evolving landscape of AI in leadership and management!In this episode, you will hear:
AI-powered coaching for managers: continuous, personalized support
The importance of manager-employee relationships and enhancing workplace dynamics
Introducing Wisq, an AI tool integrated with Slack and Teams for managerial coaching
An emphasis on soft skills: trust, empathy, and a service-oriented leadership approach
A discussion on whether good management skills are innate or can be learned
AI's role in making difficult conversations easier and encouraging honest feedback
Insights on the ideal customer profile for Wisq
The impact of AI on managerial effectiveness
Resources from this Episode
Visit the Wisq website: wisq.com
Connect with Marc Maloy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/marcmaloy
Connect with Jim Barnett on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jim-barnett-a5312
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Jun 9, 2024 • 45min
279: The Corporate Recruiter’s Playbook with Carmen Hudson
Have you ever wondered why so many hiring processes fall short of finding the best talent?On this episode of Punk Rock HR, Laurie welcomes recruiter Carmen Hudson, author of The Corporate Recruiter’s Playbook, who shares the secrets behind effective hiring strategies. She challenges the outdated reliance on question banks, highlighting understanding core skills and behaviors needed for a role before crafting interview questions. It is a must-listen for recruiters, leaders, and HR professionals eager to attract and assess top candidates with a balanced approach that integrates both professional and personal insights.Carmen Hudson shares her career path, from executive search to launching her own startup, reflecting on recruiting challenges. With market variability and economic shifts constantly altering the playing field, Carmen offers an optimistic perspective on the future. She discusses the impact of AI on job availability and provides foundational principles and best practices from her book to help recruiters and leaders navigate these changes successfully.Laurie and Carmen’s conversation covers effective recruiting techniques and the complexities of diversity hiring. Carmen provides practical strategies for developing clear, jargon-free job descriptions and moving beyond superficial diversity measures to promote genuine inclusivity at all organizational levels. We explore how recruiters and hiring managers can reshape their approach to create a more inclusive and effective hiring environment in 2024.Don't miss this discussion with one of the industry's leading voices.In this episode, you will hear:
Crafting interview questions based on core skills and behaviors and challenging conventional recruitment practices
Carmen’s career journey from executive search to entrepreneurship
The impact of AI and market changes on recruiting
Clear communication with hiring managers
Moving beyond outdated interview methods
Focusing on essential candidate qualities
Going beyond superficial measures and promoting genuine inclusivity at all organizational levels
The importance of understanding the recruitment process
Integrating technology with human elements
Aligning recruitment strategies with organizational goals
Carmen’s perspective on question banks
The role of AI in job availability
The importance of candidate experience in the recruitment process
Misconceptions around meritocracy in diversity hiring
Practical strategies for fostering a more inclusive hiring environment
Resources from this Episode
Visit Carmen Hudson’s website: carmenhudson.com
Connect with Carmen on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmenhudson
Get The Corporate Recruiting Playbook book: amzn.to/3V3xKOr
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Mar 11, 2024 • 35min
278: HR Leadership with Angela Cheng-Cimini
When Laurie first stumbled into the HR world, what struck her was not just the depth of paperwork but the human stories behind each form and policy.On this episode of Punk Rock HR, fast forward several decades, and Laurie is sitting down with Angela Cheng-Cimini, an HR expert with an enviable three-decade portfolio, to share those very tales that have shaped our careers and the field of human resources. Together, we unwrap the evolution of HR from a back-office function to a strategic powerhouse, reflecting on the times we had to stand our ground and the moments that taught us the true value of our professional worth.Workplace dynamics are never static, and this episode peels back the layers on wielding influence without the crutch of rank or authority – a nuanced art in HR. Angela and Laurie swap stories from the trenches, discussing confrontations with workplace bullying and the leaps of faith in self-advocacy that propelled our careers forward. We also delve into how we've seen HR evolve, moving from policy enforcers to holistic partners in business strategy and the critical role of mentoring up-and-coming HR champions.Peering into the crystal ball, Angela and Laurie discuss the future of work, tackling the burning question of whether the traditional nine-to-five is on its last legs. We unravel the implications of a global talent pool, the urgency for flexible work solutions, and the importance of doubling down on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in a world constantly reshaping its social contours.This episode isn't just a walk down memory lane but a rallying cry for innovation in HR practices and an example of the irreplaceable human element in the workplace.In this episode, you will hear:
HR's transformation from administrative paperwork to strategic business partnership
How HR professionals can exert influence without relying on hierarchical power
Standing up against workplace bullying and advocating for self-worth
Addressing generational differences in the workplace
The urgency to enhance DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives amid shifting social dynamics
The future of work, including the viability of the traditional nine-to-five workweek and the rise of remote work opportunities from a global talent pool
The evolution of HR practices and the ongoing need for mentorship in developing strategic HR leaders
Social media’s role in shaping employer branding, talent acquisition, and the challenges of fostering authentic dialogue in the digital age
Committing to DEI efforts within organizations and “doubling down” despite potential societal and legislative backslides.
Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Angela Cheng-Cimini on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/angela-cheng-cimini-160890a
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Mar 4, 2024 • 32min
277: Optionality with Elisa Camahort Page
On this episode of Punk Rock HR, discover the secrets to aligning your career with your personal values as Laurie chats with BlogHer co-founder Elisa Camahort Page.We walk down memory lane, reminiscing about the early internet days that revolutionized communication and fostered female empowerment through blogging. Elisa and Laurie’s conversation is a goldmine for understanding the delicate balance between nurturing a company's growth and adhering to your original mission—even when boardroom battles and investor pressures loom large. Plus, we get the inside scoop on Optionality, Elisa's latest venture with Jory Des Jardines, which reimagines professional communities for those who want to weave their values seamlessly into their work lives.Prepare to explore the evolution of workplace culture, where the gig economy and the Great Resignation have reshaped our expectations for flexibility and meaningful work. Through the lens of Elisa's extensive experience, we discuss the transformation from online arenas full of bots and trolls to intimate sanctuaries crafted within platforms like Substack and Slack. Learn how these digital spaces nurture a new breed of online communities—private, controlled, and rich with engagement.Whether you're a corporate veteran, an HR aficionado, or a solopreneur, this episode is your gateway to understanding and shaping the digital workplace of tomorrow.In this episode, you will hear:
Elisa Camahort Page’s reflections on the early internet's role in female empowerment and community building through blogging
The balance between company growth and staying true to original missions, even under investor pressures
An introduction to Optionality, a venture aimed at redefining work-life integration and aligning careers with personal values
Evolving workplace culture and the impact of the gig economy and the Great Resignation on expectations for work flexibility.
The transition from public online platforms to private, controlled digital spaces like Substack and Slack
The shift towards intimate, engagement-rich communities
Elisa's path from corporate tech to media and her desire to build a product with intrinsic value
Optionality and its aim to be a community-driven platform that fosters collaboration between workers seeking flexibility and companies adapting to the future of work
Resources from this Episode
Visit the Optionality website: optionality.life
Elisa Camahort Page’s website: elisacp.com
Connect with Elisa on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/elisacamahortpage
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Feb 26, 2024 • 31min
276: Performance Unlocked with Kevin Brady
Imagine a world where leaders aren’t buried in spreadsheets and are fully present, creating a heartbeat within their organizations through genuine connections.On this episode of Punk Rock HR, that's the future Kevin Brady, a pharmaceutical industry veteran and founder of Performance Unlocked, envisions. Kevin and Laurie examine the inevitable revolution in leadership, where artificial intelligence offloads our analytical burdens, causing leaders to cultivate empathy and forge deeper relationships with their teams. It's a future where algorithms crunch the data, leaving us to master emotional intelligence—a skill set essential for any business to survive and thrive in the rapidly approaching 2030s landscape.As Kevin shares stories from his path, we uncover the soft underbelly of leadership—a place where vulnerability meets strength and where creating a culture of open communication and innovation is paramount. We dissect the repercussions of inadequate leadership and celebrate heart-centric guidance to uncover creativity and drive organizational success. This conversation goes beyond industry boundaries and offers HR professionals and leaders a new perspective.Join us for a session that will challenge your preconceptions of leadership and inspire you to engage with your workforce in a way that leaves a lasting imprint.In this episode, you will hear:
Kevin Brady’s thoughts on the evolving role of leadership and the importance of emotional connections in the workplace
The impact of poor leadership on personal growth and organizational performance
Leaders’ need to balance analytical skills with emotional intelligence post-pandemic
Emotional intelligence in leadership as a way to unlock hidden potential and drive innovation
The generational shift in workplace expectations, with a focus on the shared human need for purpose, belonging, and feeling valued at work
Kevin Brady's new venture, Performance Unlocked, and how it aims to enhance individual and team performance using emotional intelligence and psychological safety
The future of leadership where emotional connection with employees becomes the key differentiator
Resources from this Episode
Visit Performance Unlocked’s website: performanceunlocked.ie
Connect with Kevin Brady on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brady-80b42618
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Feb 19, 2024 • 34min
275: Transform 2024 with Samara Jaffe
Have you ever wondered how to navigate your first big conference without getting lost in the shuffle?On this episode of Punk Rock HR, Laurie teams up with Samara Jaffe, co-founder and general manager of Transform, and Josh Schwede, HR tech guru, to share the insider track for newcomers. It's all about striking the perfect balance between self-care and forging deep connections rather than sprinting through every scheduled event.But there's more to a conference than just showing up. It's about the community and the culture that it grows. Transform, once known as HR Transform, has blossomed into a hub for innovation within the HR industry. Samara is at the heart of it, cultivating a space where executives, leaders, and entrepreneurs can converge to shape the workplace of tomorrow. Through a tapestry of human-centric interactions and even some furry friends, this episode peels back the curtain on how Transform stands out in a sea of professional gatherings.Finally, we’re not shying away from workplace concerns, addressing topics like women's health and sobriety in the workplace. And let's not forget the Transform Awards, a celebration of industry trailblazers that's anything but your average awards ceremony.With practical takeaways for maximizing your conference experience and a sneak peek into the eclectic excitement of Transform 2024, this episode will resonate long after its conclusion.In this episode, you will hear:
Expert tips for first-time conference attendees, including comfort, hydration, and prioritizing meaningful interactions over attending every session
Transform 2024 as an HR ecosystem fostering innovation, community, and human-first interactions with unique elements
Women's health and workplace transformation
Upcoming talks on contemporary issues and the Transform Awards that spotlight industry leaders
The unconventional Transform 2024 Awards ceremony
The future for Transform as it expands to a global community intersecting workforce, healthcare, and education sectors, with potential international events
Samara Jaffe on creating impactful connections
Josh Schwede on navigating transitions within the HR tech industry
Practical advice for conference success
Resources from this Episode
Visit the Transform website: transform.us/partners/punk-rock-hr-podcast
Connect with Samara Jaffe on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/samarajaffe
Find Josh Schwede on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joshschwede
Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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