

Punk Rock HR
WRKdefined Podcast Network
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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 4, 2023 • 38min
259: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Well-Being at Work with Dr. Lipi Roy
Could your choice of drink impact your career, culture, and health? Join Laurie as we navigate the intricate world of alcohol, work, and culture with her guest, Dr. Lipi Roy. This renowned doctor, writer, international speaker, and media personality is a titan in addiction medicine. She’ll debunk some common misconceptions about alcohol, including the ubiquitous theory surrounding the health benefits of wine. Dr. Roy will also explore the need for businesses, leaders, and HR departments to step up to address addiction and mental health issues in the workplace.We’re challenging traditional norms and perceptions around alcohol in this episode. We explore binge drinking, its prevalence, and the unique challenges women face when it comes to alcohol consumption. With her expansive experience and knowledge, Dr. Roy guides us through different treatment options for alcohol use disorder, from professional counseling to support groups, and highlights the role of medication like Naltrexone and Ozempic. This is more than just a podcast episode; this is a call for a healthier, more mindful approach to alcohol use within our lives and workplaces.In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Lipi Roy’s experience in addiction medicine and her new company, SITA MED, which addresses addiction and mental health in the workplace
Debunking the misconceptions about alcohol, like the supposed health benefits of wine
The binge drinking trend, the unique risks women face with alcohol consumption, and COVID-19’s role in escalating these issues
Treatment options for alcohol use disorder, including professional counseling and support groups, and the role of medications like Naltrexone and Ozempic
The complicated relationship between work, culture, and alcohol and the responsibility of businesses, leaders, and HR departments
Binge drinking and how to recognize harmful drinking before addiction takes hold
The increasing numbers of alcohol addiction among women and COVID-19’s role in this rise
Resources from this EpisodeSITA Med’s website: sitamedllc.comFind Dr. Lipi Roy on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DrLipiRoy Connect with Dr. Roy on Instagram: www.instagram.com/lipiroymdVisit Dr. Roy’s TikTok page: www.tiktok.com/@lipiroymdFind Dr. Roy on Twitter/X: twitter.com/lipiroyFollow 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.

Aug 28, 2023 • 42min
258: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Recovery Mindset with Bryan Wempen
Today, on The Corporate Drinker, Laurie invites you on an extraordinary journey of bravery, resilience, and self-discovery with her guest, Bryan Wempen.With an openness that is at once jarring and inspiring, Bryan translates his personal battles with alcohol addiction into a narrative that brings to light the often unaddressed issue of substance abuse in the corporate world. We dive head-first into the murky waters of his past, tracing the path from his early days of drinking to his arduous journey to recovery, exposing the power of a recovery mindset, self-compassion, and kindness. Their conversation takes a powerful turn as we dissect the correlation between work culture and alcohol. Through Bryan's eyes, we explore the changing landscape of professional behavior in the age of social media and the increasing visibility of substance abuse. He shares his revelations during recovery meetings and highlights the importance of managing negative emotions and staying committed to the mission for a better, healthier work environment.In the final part of their conversation, Bryan introduces us to his work with CHESS Health and how it fits into his mission to help those in recovery. He talks about his upcoming book, “Fuck My Demons: A Next Chapter in Recovery,” and the role writing played in his journey to self-improvement. His commitment to doing the right thing while caring for himself and his family, along with his perspectives on tolerance, is nothing short of inspirational. Tune in as we celebrate the power of second chances and the companions who challenge, support, and spur us on our journey to self-discovery and growth.In this episode, you will hear:
Bryan Wempen's journey from alcohol addiction to recovery and the impact of work culture on substance abuse
The correlation between work culture and alcohol and the increasing visibility of substance abuse due to social media
Bryan's experiences and revelations from recovery meetings and why managing negative emotions and committing to a healthier work environment is crucial
His work with CHESS Health, aimed at helping individuals in recovery, and his upcoming book “Fuck My Demons: A Next Chapter in Recovery”
The power of writing in Bryan's recovery and self-improvement journey
Corporate drinking culture and its implications for workplace wellness strategies
Bryan Wempen's commitment to tolerance, self-care, and making a positive impact through his work and lifestyle
Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Bryan Wempen on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwempen Find Bryan on Twitter: twitter.com/bryanwempenGet Bryan Wempen's Books: amzn.to/3q8zmLn 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.

Aug 21, 2023 • 46min
257: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Substance Misuse in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown Merriwether
What if we told you that the corporate world could be playing a significant role in triggering addiction and mental health issues? It's time to challenge perceptions and spark meaningful dialogues as we welcome Cheryl Brown Merriwether, Vice President and Executive Director at the International Center for Addiction and Recovery Education. With her experience in HR management, adult education, and lived experience of addiction, we uncover unsettling truths about substance misuse in the workplace and discuss the significant part we can all play in fostering recovery.We tread into contentious territory, examining the reclassification of substance use disorders and how our choice of language can shape the fight against addiction stigma. Cheryl provides insight into the various schools of thought and the transformative power of education in bridging these divides. We also explore the tricky area of workplace culture and its impact on employee mental health - how do businesses strike the right balance between providing support and encroaching on personal boundaries?But it's not all heavy discussion; we also dive headfirst into the adoption of exciting new approaches to tackle mental health and substance use disorders in the workplace. From creating safe spaces through affinity groups and employee resource groups to the pivotal role of data in measuring the success of these initiatives, there's much to be hopeful about. And as Cheryl shares the inspiring stories of Project Opioid and her work with ICARE, we're reminded of the immense potential of interagency partnerships and the vital role of education in making a real, tangible difference. Tune in for a conversation that challenges, provokes thought, and inspires action.In this episode, you will hear:
An in-depth discussion with Cheryl Brown Merriwether, executive director at the International Center for Addiction and Recovery Education, on substance misuse in workplaces, along with her her personal and professional experiences
The controversial reclassification of substance use disorders, focusing on the role of language in destigmatizing addiction and the power of education in bridging different viewpoints
The impact of workplace culture on managing mental health, including the delicate balance that companies need to strike when offering support without overstepping professional boundaries
Some innovative strategies for addressing mental health and substance misuse in professional environments, like establishing affinity groups and employee resource groups
The use of data in measuring the efficacy of mental health initiatives in workplaces
Project Opioid and ICARE, initiatives that demonstrate the potential of interagency partnerships and the transformative power of education in driving change
The evolving language and understanding of substance misuse and mental health and the need for ongoing education and open conversations in the workplace
Resources from this EpisodeInternational Center for Addiction and Recovery Education: www.icare-aware.orgConnect with Cheryl Brown Merriwether on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cherylbrownmerriwether Project Opioid: projectopioid.orgFollow 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.

Aug 14, 2023 • 27min
256: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Corporate Culture and Drinking with Claude Silver
Ever wondered how to transform workplace dynamics with a heart-centered approach and a dash of courage? Join us as we reveal these secrets with Claude Silver, the Chief Heart Officer at Vayner X. Claude takes us on a compelling journey, sharing stories from her early days in advertising, where she defied the norms and chose not to participate in strip club-related client meetings. Her reminiscences underscore the essence of authenticity and the richness each of us contributes to our professional spaces.Focusing on the complex landscape of the corporate world, we grapple with striking the right balance between an inclusive atmosphere and promoting self-leadership. This discussion probes corporate responsibilities towards those who choose not to drink and organizations' pivotal role in setting boundaries while fostering teamwork. We also delve into the power of emotional resilience and adopting a heart-centric approach to resolve issues in the workplace.In our conclusion, we muse on the art of achieving success without compromising personal boundaries. Claude and Laurie reflect on finding tranquility and taking time to recharge amidst a bustling lifestyle. We underscore the importance of patience and understanding that success takes time. Summing up, we stress the significance of expressing gratitude, nurturing robust relationships, and the invaluable role of having a dependable support system.Listen in, and enrich yourself with a wealth of wisdom about cultivating a balanced and fulfilling career.In this episode, you will hear:
Claude’s reflections on the early days in advertising, where strip clubs were the norm for client meetings, and how she chose a different path
The balance of fostering an inclusive environment and self-leadership in the corporate world and considering everyone's experiences, especially those who choose sobriety
Corporate responsibility and a heart-centered approach to problem-solving, along with maintaining boundaries and promoting emotional resilience
The necessity of setting personal boundaries while striving for success, finding solace, and recharging amidst a busy lifestyle
The role of patience and understanding that success takes time and is not an overnight feat
The need to balance between socializing and forming authentic connections, along with gratitude, nourishing relationships, and a supportive network
Claude's experiences at a super conference promoting empathy, kindness, patience, success, and ambition
Resources from this EpisodeClaude Silver’s website: www.claudesilver.comConnect with Claude on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/casilverFollow 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.

Aug 7, 2023 • 29min
255: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - The Problem with Corporate Happy Hour with Leah Goodridge
Have you ever wondered how unseen forces of elitism might drive the dynamics of your workplace?Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Leah Goodridge, an attorney and city planning commissioner from Brooklyn, New York, who has some thought-provoking insights to share about this very subject. Leah draws our attention to the often-overlooked intersection of work and alcohol and how it contributes to a culture of exclusivity and perpetuates financial insecurity among young professionals.In our conversation with Leah, we venture into the labyrinth of workplace elitism, unearthing its subtle manifestations in after-work drinks, power lunches, and even the pressure to outperform. Further, we dissect the concept of dysfunction bonding, a complex issue where work becomes an escape from personal problems, leading to unhealthy dynamics. We delve into the delicate balance between sharing insights and gossiping and how it can create a sense of inequity. Leah also brings to light the undue pressure on marginalized groups to constantly prove themselves, adding another layer to this intricate matrix. Prepare for a riveting conversation that promises to broaden your perspective on the reality of workplace dynamics and equity.In this episode, you will hear:
Leah Goodridge, a legal warrior advocating for housing justice in Brooklyn, New York, shares her thoughts on the intersection of work and alcohol
The hidden nuances of workplace elitism and how it's entangled with after-work drinking and power lunches
Uncovering the reality of financial insecurity among young careerists and the unspoken inequities in professional spaces
An examination of dysfunction bonding in the workplace and the fine line between gaining insight and fostering gossip
The pressures faced by those from marginalized groups in proving their worth at heightened levels
How the culture of after-work drinks can perpetuate workplace inequalities and marginalization
The role of alcohol in fostering an unhealthy work culture and perpetuating sexual harassment
Resources from this EpisodeLeah Goodridge’s website: www.leahgoodridge.comFind Leah on Twitter: twitter.com/Leahfrombklyn Connect with Leah on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leah-goodridge 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.

Aug 7, 2023 • 35min
254: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Mocktails and Bitters with Carly and Ian Blessing
Join me as I chat with Carly and Ian Blessing, founders of the alcohol-free brand “All the Bitter.” They share their candid journey from struggling with alcohol use disorder to launching their innovative brand in the cocktail scene. We explore their experiences working at The French Laundry, how they navigated their path to sobriety, and how they channeled their challenge into an opportunity.Carly and Ian give us an inside look into the world of non-alcoholic bitters, from their kitchen experiments to managing a full-blown commercial operation. We discuss how the pandemic served as a catalyst for their venture and the fascinating process behind the creation of their bitters.Tune in to this episode of Corporate Drinker as Carly and Ian emphasize the importance of a supportive community outside work and share their experiences with AA and online communities. You'll also get to hear about the growth of their family business and the recent addition of Carly's stepdad, Ed, to their team. It's a conversation that unravels a journey of resilience, enterprise, and creativity. Don't miss out on this inspiring episode as we stir up conversations around sobriety, recovery, and innovation in the cocktail industry!In this episode, you will hear:
Carly and Ian’s journey from alcohol use disorder to launching their non-alcoholic bitters brand, “All the Bitter,” influenced by their work experience at the French Laundry
The transformation of their kitchen experiments into a full-scale commercial operation, including insights into inventory management and recipe tracking
How the pandemic served as a catalyst for the idea of alcohol-free cocktail bitters, leading to the birth of their innovative product
Why you need a supportive community on the path to recovery, and Carly and Ian’s experiences with AA and an online community focused on non-alcoholic beverages
The growth of the family business and the addition of Ian's stepdad, Ed, to the team
The process of alcohol recovery in the restaurant industry
A deep dive into the world of non-alcoholic bitters, their creation, and the importance of community-building in the alcohol-free space
Resources from this EpisodeAll the Bitter - allthebitter.com Find All the Bitter on Instagram: instagram.com/allthebitterFollow 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.

Jul 31, 2023 • 31min
253: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - Discovering Your Strengths in Sobriety with Jessica Winder
As a host, I’ve had the privilege of discussing many bold and brave stories. Still, this conversation with Jessica Winder, the senior vice president of people at Refine Labs and founder of Hidden Gem Career Coaching, truly resonates deeply.Brace yourselves as Jessica unearths her personal confrontation with alcohol addiction, an unspoken secret in her family tree, and the lifeline she found in her career. We navigate her journey through sobriety and relapse, shedding light on how she used her professional success to mask her struggles.A poignant part of our discussion revolves around Jessica's experiences in the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program, where she grappled with feelings of isolation and sought solace in others. Her life took a pivotal turn when she received a DUI, a wake-up call that initiated her sober journey. Jessica also shares insights on how corporations can support sobriety and address historical trauma, a topic often overlooked in corporate conversations. In the final stages of our conversation, Jessica opens up about how her sobriety has positively impacted her personal and professional life. From strengthening her marriage to reigniting her creative spark, Jessica reveals the unexpected benefits of her recovery. She discusses her new-found passion for journaling, her ambitions for a startup, and her aspiration to author a book. Ending on a hopeful note, Jessica imparts her career coaching philosophy centered around personal resonance over financial gains.This discussion with Jessica Winder is a compelling tale of overcoming personal adversities, reaching professional success, and finding true fulfillment in one's career.In this episode, you will hear:
Jessica Winder's struggle with alcohol addiction resulting from unacknowledged addiction issues within her family
Her use of professional success as a cover-up for her addiction and proof that she was not struggling with alcoholism
Jessica’s feelings of isolation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings as often the only black woman in attendance.
Her recognition of her problem when she found a meeting for Black people online
How a DUI started Jessica’s sober journey, positively impacting her personal and professional life by reigniting her creative spark, strengthening her marriage, and finding a passion for journaling
The importance of corporations supporting sobriety and addressing historical trauma in the workplace
Jessica's career coaching philosophy based on personal resonance over financial gains, encouraging people to find careers they love
Resources from this EpisodeHidden Gem Career Coaching: www.hiddengemcareercoaching.comHidden Gem Career Coaching on Instagram: instagram.com/HiddenGemCC Connect with Jessica Winder on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinderGet Jessica’s book, The Hidden Gem Within: Discovering Your Strengths & Talents for a Fulfilling Career: amzn.to/3pE1MN2Follow and Review:If you haven’t yet, we’d love for you to follow us. 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 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.

Jul 31, 2023 • 42min
252: Punk Rock HR Presents Corporate Drinker - The Science of Corporate Drinking with Dr. Jared Pelo
Ever wondered about the deep-rooted intersection of alcohol science and corporate culture?In this inaugural episode, I welcome Dr. Jared Pelo, a physician, executive, and entrepreneur who takes us on an insightful journey through the uncharted territories of corporate drinking and its impact on health. His experiences, including an acquisition by Microsoft, have honed his perspective on thriving amidst the complexities of corporate culture and alcohol science. As the conversation continues, we explore the progression of alcohol abuse and its ever-shifting cultural dynamics. From managing social pressure in a comfortable environment to discussing the health implications of increased alcohol consumption, we pull no punches. Add to this the accelerated narrative around suffering and despair intensified by the pandemic, and you're in for a thought-provoking discussion.Finally, we focus on fostering a workplace culture of help and health. How can corporate wellness programs, government incentives, and social media influences contribute? How can employers empower their employees, and what can individuals do to enhance their work environments? Dr. Pelo and I look honestly at complex problems like racism and gender disparity that may persist beyond our lifetime but are worth our tireless efforts. Along with Dr. Jared Pelo, let's navigate the labyrinth of corporate drinking together.In this episode, you will hear:
The complex relationship between alcohol and corporate culture
An exploration of the progression of alcohol abuse and its transformation of acceptance over the years
Strategies to navigate social pressures surrounding alcohol and the health risks associated with excessive consumption
The impact of the global pandemic on conversations around mental health, suffering, and despair
The possibilities of fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes health and assistance
A reflection on the persisting issues of racism and gender disparity within the workplace
The impacts of alcohol on our health, including damage to organs, disruption of sleep cycles, and increased risk of certain diseases
Resources from this EpisodeDr. Jared Pelo’s website: jaredpelo.com Bionic Health: www.bionichealth.com/about Connect with Dr. Pelo on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jared-pelo-b849026 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 26, 2023 • 35min
251: Make Performance Management Sticky With Betterworks’ Andrea Couto and Harini Sridharan
My guests on this episode of Punk Rock HR are both from Betterworks: Andrea Couto, head of solutions engineering and sales readiness, and Harini Sridharan, head of product marketing. We discuss the evolution of performance management into performance enablement, how small businesses can experiment with performance enablement and the role of people analytics in performance.To read the full show notes for this episode, visit: https://laurieruettimann.com/make-performance-management-sticky

Jun 19, 2023 • 31min
250: Showcasing Real-Life Stories of UBI With Conrad Shaw
My guest on this episode of Punk Rock HR is Conrad Shaw. He is a writer, filmmaker, co-founder of Comingle.us and a universal basic income (UBI) researcher. Conrad is a font of wisdom about UBI, and we discuss what it is, how it works, his upcoming documentary series “Bootstraps” and more.To read the full show notes for this episode, visit: https://laurieruettimann.com/showing-the-real-life-stories-of-ubi


