Comp and Coffee

Compensation isn’t just an HR function—it’s a core business strategy. In this episode of Comp and Coffee, we look into the pay crystal ball with Rebecca Toman of Pearl Meyer, Ruth Thomas, Chief Compensation Strategist at Payscale, and Sara Hillenmeyer, Payscale’s Director of Data Science. Together, they explore how trusted data, AI, and a forward-thinking approach to comp strategy can help organizations not just keep up—but lead. If you care about performance, retention, equity, or executive pay, this episode is your blueprint for aligning comp strategy with long-term business success. 

What happens when your pay strategy sparks more questions than confidence—and your best people start walking? In this episode, we bring in the experts to tackle the hard truths behind tough pay conversations and how to rebuild trust before it’s too late.

Compensation has come a long way—from handwritten ledgers and dusty binders to AI-powered insights and real-time salary data. But what does the past teach us about where we’re headed? Join us for a nostalgia-packed, future-forward journey through the history of comp, featuring expert reflections from WorldatWork, and predictions from the people shaping the next era of pay. 

Amy Stewart, Principal Content Strategist at Payscale, dives into the crucial findings from the 2025 Gender Pay Gap Report. She discusses the distinction between controlled and uncontrolled pay gaps, revealing that women currently earn 83 cents for every dollar men make. The impacts of pay transparency legislation across states are highlighted, alongside systemic issues affecting women, particularly women of color. Stewart also emphasizes the 'motherhood penalty' and provides actionable recommendations for organizations aiming to close these persistent pay disparities.

In this discussion, Sarah Hillenmayer, a lead in AI and data insights at Payscale with over 15 years in HR tech, delves into refining compensation data strategies. She highlights that having multiple data sources isn't always beneficial unless used strategically. The conversation covers the necessity of data transparency and monitoring biases. Additionally, Sarah explores the transformative role of AI in compensation practices and provides insights on crafting effective pay ranges, especially for budget-conscious organizations.

Lexi Clarke, Chief People Officer at Payscale, and Kate Peter, Chief Customer Officer, join the conversation to tackle the gender pay gap and women's leadership challenges. They discuss the role of pay transparency and systemic issues stalling progress since 2022. Personal anecdotes reveal the impact of motherhood on career paths and emphasize the significance of authentic leadership. The need for a personal board of directors is highlighted, showcasing the importance of mentorship and genuine support for women aiming for C-suite positions.

In a compelling discussion, Amy Stewart, Principal of Research and Insights, Sara Hillenmeyer, Senior Director of Data Science, and Lulu Seikaly, Senior Corporate Employment Counsel at Payscale, analyze the evolving landscape of compensation. They dive into the 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report, highlighting trends in pay transparency and AI's growing role in HR. The trio emphasizes the need for organizations to foster clear communication about compensation practices while also addressing the challenges of pay equity and legislative impacts on compensation strategies.

Cliff Stevenson, Director of Research at Sapient Insights Group and an expert in HR technology, dives into the dynamic world of compensation tech. He highlights AI's transformative role, emphasizing its shift from theory to practical solutions for HR professionals. The conversation reveals the importance of real-time data for compensation strategies and how HR anchor systems improve employee experiences. Stevenson also discusses future trends, including the integration of contingent labor markets and user satisfaction in compensation tools.

Lulu Seikaly, a senior corporate attorney and pay transparency expert at Payscale, joins the discussion to shed light on the evolving landscape of pay transparency. She reveals the latest developments in pay legislation across the U.S. and Europe, debunking common misconceptions for organizations. Lulu emphasizes the significance of internal pay equity checks and offers best practices for fostering trust through transparency. As employees demand greater visibility into compensation, she discusses emerging trends that organizations must navigate for a fair future.

Join Kim Taylor, VP of Compensation Services at Payscale, and Roberto Molina, Compensation Consultant at Payscale, as they dive into the nuances of effective pay conversations. They discuss the growing importance of manager preparedness in light of new pay transparency laws. Discover the pitfalls of avoiding these discussions and how to align performance reviews with compensation to foster trust. Innovative training methods to empower managers are highlighted, ensuring better communication that enhances employee engagement and satisfaction.