Your Work Friends | Fresh Insights on the Now and Next of Work

Send us a textJoin Mel and Francesca, your workplace insiders, as they break down the biggest workplace news affecting your career and wallet. This week: Major developments in overtime pay as Texas courts strike down new federal rules, shocking new data about the salary Americans say they need to feel successful ($270K!), and the latest research on paid family leave that could change your benefits. Plus, the childcare crisis hitting working parents harder than ever.🔍 In this episode:Breaking: Texas federal court invalidates nationwide overtime exemption rulesNew DOL research reveals only 27% of workers have paid family leaveThe real cost of childcare vs. rent in 2024Why Gen Z says they need $500K to feel successfulWhich companies are stepping up for part-time workersInside Portillo's innovative corporate staffing strategyYour Work Friends delivers no-nonsense workplace news, salary insights, and career strategy you can actually use. Perfect for professionals navigating corporate and workplaces in America who want to stay ahead of workplace trends and protect their careers.New episodes every week. Subscribe for the latest in workplace news, labor laws, salary trends, and corporate culture.#WorkplaceNews #CareerAdvice #CorporateAmerica #SalaryTalk #WorkLife #HRNews #Leadership #WorkTrends #CareerGrowth #WorkplaceCulture"Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textIn a world obsessed with productivity, could play be your team's secret weapon?Brandon Wetzstein has helped transform teams at major organizations by tapping into the power of strategic play. In this episode, he breaks down why traditional "serious" approaches often lead to mediocre solutions, and how structured play can break through conventional thinking to unlock breakthrough ideas.Key Episode Highlights: [00:03:45] Why NASA and Google use play-based methods for complex problems [00:12:30] The psychology behind why play creates psychological safety [00:18:20] How one leadership team resolved long-standing conflicts through play [00:25:15] Practical techniques for introducing play in traditional environments [00:35:40] The science of why play leads to better solutions than conventional methodsWhether you're:Leading a team through transformationLooking to drive innovation in a traditional industryTrying to break down silos between departmentsBuilding psychological safety in your teamThis episode provides actionable strategies for using play as a serious business tool.Featured Guest: Brandon Wetzstein, founder of In8 Create, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, and expert in using play-based methodologies for organizational transformation.Resources Mentioned:Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn In8 Create Book: "Play" by Dr. Stuart BrownLEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methodologyTags: workplace innovation, leadership development, team building, organizational psychology, corporate culture, professional development, business strategy, team communication, change management, employee engagementDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textAI Is Making 71% of Workers Less Productive: The Truth About Tech Burnout + Why You Need $1.6M to RetireWe're tackling tackle two major workplace challenges:AI & Burnout: We expose alarming new research that shows a massive disconnect between executives and workers when it comes to AI. While 96% of leaders are betting big on AI to boost productivity, 71% of employees report it's actually making them less productive and more stressed. We unpack five hidden digital stressors that are burning out today's workforce and share real solutions for managing the tech overwhelm. Plus, find out why Gen Z – our most tech-savvy generation – is actually the most anxious about AI's impact.The Retirement Crisis: Brace yourself: we reveal why the average American now needs $1.6M to retire comfortably – and that number keeps climbing for younger generations. We break down exactly how much each generation needs to save (Gen Z, you might want to sit down for this), and count down the surprising best states for retirement in 2024. Is traditional retirement even realistic anymore? We get honest about what retirement might actually look like for millennials and beyond, plus share practical strategies for planning your financial future - like moving to Delaware. Whether you're drowning in AI tools or wondering if you'll ever be able to retire, we've got the data, the insights, and the real talk you need to hear.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Explore the striking findings revealing that young women endure double the ageism compared to their male counterparts. Discover the staggering $1,200 monthly costs of return-to-office policies for employees. Delve into the surprising trend of companies offering divorce benefits to boost employee wellness and productivity. Personal anecdotes highlight the ongoing struggles for gender equality and the resilience of women tackling corporate America's outdated norms. It’s a blend of serious dialogue and lighthearted discussions!

Send us a textIn this episode of Your Work Friends, Francesca and Mel dive into the long-term impacts of corporate layoffs and the crucial role of trust in AI adoption. They discuss recent research revealing how layoffs can damage employee morale, engagement, and company recovery for up to 24 months. We also explore Fortune's findings on how top European companies are building trust to facilitate AI integration, highlighting the importance of fair compensation, talent mobility, and transparent communication. With real-world examples from Spotify, Stellantis, and Salesforce, this episode offers valuable insights for both employees and leaders navigating today's rapidly changing workplace landscape. Tune in for a mix of expert analysis, practical advice, ah-has and ha-has as Francesca and Mel break down these critical workplace trends.We referenced: The Long-Term Costs of Layoffs - HBRCutting Too Much: When HR needs to pump the brakes on layoffsCompanies that announced major layoffs and hiring freezes - IntellizencePublic WARN trackerThe Best 100 Companies - FortuneDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textDiscover two major work trends that are reshaping the workplace: the shift away from managers and the growing importance of bonus-based pay. Learn why human capital is an investment, not an expense.Two Game-Changing Work Trends:👉 Explore two major work trends transforming corporate America: the decline of traditional managers and the rise of bonus-based pay. Find out what this means for your career.We referenced: Amazon's Plan to Cut 14,000 Managers The Big Shift from Salaries to Bonus Based Pay Human Capital: Why Investing in People is the Key to Growth:👉 The data is officially in - Human Capital is actually an investment (I know, all of us in talent are like, no duh. But, we love the data!!). The SEC's human capital reporting rules and why diverse teams are crushing it financially (35% better). Plus, Microsoft's secret sauce for employee retention.We referenced: From Expense To Investment: Human Capital - A Driver Of Business ValueMcKinsey & Company: Delivering Through DiversityGallup: Employee EngagementDeloitte Global Human Capital TrendsMorris & Garritano Ex. future of work, no managers, bonus pay, human capital, employee investmentDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textIn an era where employee wellbeing is paramount, leaders are increasingly recognizing the need for more compassionate and psychologically safe work environments. But what if I told you that over 80% of people globally have experienced some form of trauma? This statistic, highlighted in the latest episode of "Your Work Friends" podcast, underscores the urgent need for trauma-informed leadership in our workplaces.Featuring Debra Lee, founder of Creaturae and , this eye-opening discussion delves into the world of trauma-informed care and embodied leadership. Here are some key takeaways that could revolutionize your approach to leadership:Understanding Trauma Responses: Beyond the well-known "fight or flight," learn about lesser-known responses like "fawn," "collapse and submit," and "attach cry for help." Recognizing these in your team members can be a game-changer in how you support them.The Mind-Body Connection: Debra emphasizes the importance of somatic intelligence in leadership. By understanding how trauma manifests physically, leaders can create more holistic support systems for their teams.Psychological Safety is Key: The episode highlights how creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and valued is crucial for their wellbeing and productivity.Reflection as a Leadership Tool: One simple yet powerful step leaders can take is to prioritize self-reflection. This practice helps in developing the self-awareness necessary for embodied leadership.The Impact on Retention: Leaders who practice embodied leadership are more successful in retaining talent, creating a win-win situation for both employees and the organization.As we navigate the complexities of modern workplaces, adopting a trauma-informed approach to leadership isn't just beneficial—it's essential. It's about creating spaces where people can bring their whole selves to work, fostering innovation, engagement, and ultimately, success.I encourage all leaders and HR professionals to tune into this episode of "Your Work Friends." It's time we acknowledge the human experiences that shape our work lives and lead with empathy and understanding.What steps are you taking to create a more trauma-informed workplace? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.#TraumaInformedLeadership #WorkplaceWellbeing #EmbodiedLeadership #EmployeeRetention #PsychologicalSafetyDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textThe work news is HITTING in September, here are the four what we're watching...Pizza Hut: Wanting to help you get a job, Pizza Hut will print your resume on a pizza box and send it to a recruiter. We referenced: https://adage.com/creativity/work/pizza-hut-will-deliver-pizza-your-resume-box-potential-employer/2580841Sam's Club and Bank of America: We’ll also shine a light on inspiring stories of companies investing in their frontline workers, such as Bank of America and Sam's club raising their minimum wages. We referenced: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sams-club-costco-walmart-hourly-pay/ https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/bank-of-america-minimum-wage-24-an-hour/The Company with the 5:1 CEO Salary Cap: Can a pay cap for CEOs really transform the workplace into a more equitable environment? We think yes as we spotlight Dr. Bronner's. They have a five-to-one salary cap for their CEO. The average is 268:1.  We referenced: https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/dr-bronners-ceo-salary-cap-based-on-lowest-employee-wage/476435#:~:text=The%20highest%2Dpaid%20employee's%20salary,around%20%24238%2C560%2C%20per%20Entrepreneur's%20calculations.What the Comments Section Tells Us About Nike's New CEO: Prepare to hear about the leadership shakeups at Nike and the anticipated return of Elliot Hill, a move that has both employees and investors buzzing with hope. We’ll also touch upon the transformative leadership trends at other major brands like Starbucks and Victoria's Secret. We referenced: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-09-13/nike-nke-stock-upheaval-defines-ceo-john-donahoe-s-tenurehttps://fortune.com/Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textThere are a lot of reasons why you'd want to talk to Mike Ohata about talent. First, he's got the chops: Fortune 15 Talent Leader (KPMG, Microsoft), Founding Board Member at Ezra Coaching and the Author of "The Talent Fueled Enterprise". He's knows how to put major points on the board the biggest and most complex orgs. In Talent circles, we like to call him, a badass. Another reason why you'd want to listen to Mike about work? About people? Because he cares. There is a people-profit win, win. Mike's made a career of it. Plus, he gives that 'big care' energy which we love. Mike shares his expert insights on maximizing talent and creating a soulful workplace, balancing the fine line between caring for employees and maintaining profitability. We challenge traditional notions of human capital and delve into the importance of psychological safety and genuine connections between leaders and their teams. Next, we explore holistic employee development and the impact of AI on the workforce. Learn why transparency, empathy, and adding 'soul' to corporate practices are more critical than ever. We question the scarcity mentality around talent, emphasize the importance of simplicity and focus in leadership, and reflect on balancing capitalism with people-centric strategies. This is a thought-provoking conversation on aligning personal and organizational values, and discover how genuine employee investment can transform your organization.About Mike Ohata: Mike Ohata brings a career-long history of transforming Big Four and Fortune 15 organizations through talent frameworks, comprehensive people development, and workforce solutions. During his 26-year executive career, he strategically navigated Microsoft Corporation and KPMG through disruption and challenges, building the operational pillars needed to scale national and international markets. His thought leadership has enhanced the growth, diversity, and capabilities of workforces of up to 200K. In 2023, he was honored with the LearningElite Gold Award for pioneering exemplary learning and development strategies at KPMG. Outside his corporate roles, Mike is committed to community service. He serves as Vice Chair of Thrive Counseling Center and Founding Advisory Board Member of EZRA, a virtual coaching and learning provider. He is also an Advisor to startups such as BigSpring and Modal. Mike holds a Master of Education from Columbia University, a Master of Arts in Linguistics and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Hawaii. His recent book, The Talent-Fueled EnterpriseDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com

Send us a textHelp a friend? Tell us how we're doing (we're seriously curious) by filing out this short (seriously, short) survey: https://forms.gle/VG19hQRLy8bCyFMS6ABOUT THE EPISODE: From our Fishbowl LIVE series, the "7 Deadly Work Sins", we bring you the last sin, PRIDE …You know PRIDE: That feeling of apathy, laziness, like you just don't want to be here. Maybe you slacked off on contributing to a project and let your co-workers carry the load. Maybe you keep blowing past your deadlines, and wait until something is due to share you need more time. Or, maybe you find yourself picking up the work of your teammate who routinely drops the ballAt work, PRIDE shows itself in a lot of different ways, and we want to talk about it. How you can recognize it, how you can manage it, and what to do if you're a victim of someone's lack of motivation and ownership. ABOUT "THE 7 DEADLY" SERIES: You want to know what really messes employees up? Raw human emotions. Listen, we ALL experience them from time to time (we totally have), but if you don't handle them well, man can they be deal breakers. In this series, we break down• The common spectrum of experiences with each 'sin', • We talk about real-life (kinda salacious stories) scenarios (yeah, this stuff happens every day), • How to not ‘commit’ the sin, and• Most importantly, how to deal with a sinnerDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.Thanks for listening! Hey! We love new friends! Connect with us! On The Socials! You Tube, TikTok, Instagram on LinkedIn - Mel + Francesca. The LinkedIn Group: We'd love to have you join the Your Work Friends Group on LinkedIn Drop Us a Line: Send us your ideas, questions, comments, complements, whatnot, to friend@yourworkfriends.com