We're Only Human

In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks connects in an insightful discussion with Debra Squyres from Bonusly and Hope Weatherford from Fountain. They delve into strategies to improve workplace performance and the evolving nature of performance management. The conversation covers the significance of real-time feedback, building trust between managers and employees, leveraging recognition platforms, and the importance of addressing the human element in work environments. Both guests share practical tips for managers to enhance employee engagement, foster personal growth, and create meaningful relationships within teams.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:45 Hope Weatherford's Background and Insights01:55 Debra Squyres' Background and Insights04:08 Challenges in Current Performance Management07:08 Solutions and Best Practices for Performance Management12:03 The Importance of Real-Time Feedback and Recognition24:36 Engaging Managers in the Performance Process30:25 Final Thoughts and Top RecommendationsConnect with Hope on LinkedInConnect with Debra on LinkedInCheck out the 2025 State of Recognition report from BonuslySee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks sits down with Michael Cleavely, founder of CoComply, to discuss the complexities of compliance in contingent workforce management. Michael shares the journey of CoComply, a platform that assists organizations in classifying, managing, and discovering their contingent and non-permanent workforce. The conversation delves into the challenges companies face with worker classification, common compliance risks, and the two-fold benefits of leveraging AI in compliance tools for both risk mitigation and strategic workforce optimization. They also explore the broader implications of having a total workforce view, encompassing all talent acquisition channels. Michael provides practical insights and suggests how firms can better manage compliance and make informed workforce decisions. This episode offers valuable perspectives for HR leaders and procurement professionals looking to enhance compliance and workforce efficiency.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Michael Cleavely's Background and CoComply's Mission02:31 The Importance of Compliance04:02 Common Compliance Challenges15:44 AI in Compliance Management21:18 Strategic Benefits of Compliance24:50 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Michael on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode, Kellee Webb shares the remarkable journey of Cenikor Foundation since 2009, growing from 82 employees across three locations to nearly 600 employees today, with 75 people in their corporate office (or "operations support," as they call them at Cenikor). The discussion highlights significant milestones such as the adoption of technology, the creation of a robust back office support system including a call center, and the strategy behind twelve acquisitions. The conversation delves into leadership development programs, employee motivations, and the importance of compassion and servant leadership in a service-oriented organization. The transformative impact of expanding services like detox, outpatient programs, and recovery support specialists is also discussed. Finally, the episode touches on HR challenges and strategies, the importance of aligning organizational and individual goals, and the rewarding experience of helping employees grow and thrive.00:00 Introduction and Initial Growth01:32 Challenges and Strategic Moves04:09 Leadership Development and Employee Engagement07:19 Substance Abuse Treatment Services11:06 HR Strategy and Cultural Integration17:23 Performance Metrics and Bonus System27:18 Personal Reflections and Leadership Insights32:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis episode is part of the Insperity SMB HR Challenges podcast series.Learn more about our research with Insperity on SMB HR challengesConnect with Kellee on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks engages in a dynamic conversation with Ryan Faught, HR leader at Milo's Tea Company. Ryan shares insights into Milo's unique culture, emphasizing values like safety, responsibility, and integrity, along with their 'HAT' values: Hungry, Agile, and Together. The discussion delves into how Milo's fosters cross-departmental collaboration, continuous improvement, and leadership development through authentic leadership pillars and comprehensive feedback mechanisms. Ryan highlights the importance of having a 'teachable spirit,' celebrating wins, and maintaining humility while growing both personally and professionally within the company. Whether discussing the joy of discovering hidden talents or the power of genuine care and concern for team members, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for creating a people-centric workplace that drives both individual and company success.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Milo's Tea Company Culture and Values02:21 Employee Growth and Cross-Departmental Opportunities05:50 Discovering and Nurturing Talent12:48 Leadership and Teachable Spirit19:26 Authentic Leadership and Feedback Culture34:26 Celebrating Wins and Continuous Improvement38:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis episode is part of the Insperity SMB HR Challenges podcast series.Learn more about our research with Insperity on SMB HR challenges Connect with Ryan on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of ‘We’re Only Human,’ host Ben Eubanks sits down with Jen McCann and Maria Jugin from Insperity to discuss the evolving landscape of human resources. The conversation covers a range of topics including the increasing interest and uncertainty surrounding AI, strategies for recruiting and retaining top talent, and the differences in priorities between business and HR leaders. Jen and Maria also highlight the importance of aligning company vision with HR practices and the challenges companies face as they expand and adapt. The episode offers actionable insights for HR leaders looking to move from administrative tasks to strategic initiatives, emphasizing the critical role of HR in driving business success.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions01:41 Current HR Challenges and AI04:49 Recruitment and Retention Strategies06:35 HR Conversations with Business Leaders12:07 Adapting to Remote Work and Compliance19:16 Strategic HR and Outsourcing Benefits25:42 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysGet the free HR research reportSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks welcomes Nikhil Arora, CEO of Epignosis, the parent company of TalentLMS. They explore various facets of learning and development, focusing on mindsets, supporting employee growth, and the impact of AI. Nikhil shares insights from TalentLMS's data, revealing that over 50% of employees prioritize growth opportunities and discusses the importance of transitioning from fixed to growth mindsets. Additionally, they discuss strategies for incorporating soft skills training, leveraging AI ethically, and maintaining employee mental wellness in a hybrid work environment. The episode offers practical advice for leaders aiming to enhance their organization's learning culture and technological adaptation.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:34 Nikhil's Background and Mission01:45 Challenges in Learning and Growth Mindset05:10 Strategies for Transitioning to a Growth Mindset10:31 The Role of AI in Learning and Development16:15 Soft Skills and the Future of Work20:03 Mental Wellness and Learning22:12 Conclusion and Contact InformationLearn more about TalentLMSSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks engages in an enlightening conversation with Jason Lawson, an HR veteran with over 30 years of experience. They delve into the importance of building strong relationships with leaders, the critical role of trust in the workplace, and the evolving views on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Jason shares profound insights on making HR policies more humane and treating employees as individuals. He highlights the significance of moving beyond administrative tasks to become a strategic partner in the business. Jason also stresses the role of creating a community at work, even in remote environments, and the impact of being one's authentic self. The episode is a master class in HR leadership, focusing on making an impact through humane treatment, trust-building, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:40 Meet Jason Lawson01:09 Why HR?02:17 Real Stories, Real Impact05:44 The Human Side of HR12:40 Building Relationships and Trust23:05 Creating Community in the Workplace28:10 Challenges in HR and DEI33:24 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Jason on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks sits down with Jeff Palkowski, an HR leader with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an active volunteer with SHRM. They discuss the unique challenges of public sector HR, the importance of mental health and employee well-being, and how to support managers in addressing these issues. Jeff also shares insights from his role as the incoming state director for Wisconsin SHRM, emphasizing the value of creating connections at HR events. Additionally, he offers advice on being proactive in HR rather than just a 'fire extinguisher,' drawing from his popular blog post and recent Disrupt HR talk.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 Meet Jeff Palkowski: HR Leader and Volunteer01:36 Public vs. Private Sector HR03:08 Challenges in HR: Mental Health and Wellbeing05:25 The Impact of Remote Work on HR10:33 Supporting Employees: Tips and Advice17:51 The Importance of Networking and Conferences24:06 HR as More Than a Fire Extinguisher29:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLink to Jeff's blogJeff's DisruptHR talkConnect with Jeff on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

With so many employers thinking about the coming year and how to create a positive workplace, we have to consider leadership and manager selection since that is a crucial part of the big picture. In this illuminating rebroadcast episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks delves into effective leadership selection with Ji Yun Kang, Senior Advisor for Leader Assessment and Development at Mayo Clinic. The discussion covers Mayo Clinic's specific criteria for assessing leadership qualities, the importance of values alignment, and the substantial impact of good leadership on employee well-being and retention. Kang also explores the onboarding process, transition coaching, and the unique demands of leadership within a healthcare context. Drawing from Mayo Clinic’s longstanding tradition of excellence, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice for organizations aiming to improve their leadership selection and development processes.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:06 The Importance of Leadership Selection00:46 Insights from Mayo Clinic's Leadership Selection00:54 Research Findings on Leadership Impact01:27 Deep Dive into Leadership Support01:44 Understanding Managerial Support02:31 Introduction to Today's Episode03:14 Guest Introduction: Ji Yun Kang from Mayo Clinic04:01 Values Alignment in Leadership06:18 Mayo Clinic's Leadership Values07:54 Succession Planning and Leadership Selection11:03 Transition Coaching for New Leaders11:55 Challenges in Leadership Transition16:10 Supporting Leaders for Success20:13 Navigating Organizational Culture21:47 Personal Insights and ConclusionConnect with Ji Yun on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates

In this episode of 'We're Only Human',  host Ben Eubanks welcomes Patrika Hardnett, the Customer Eminence Leader at Kyndryl, to discuss the innovative concept of customer eminence. Patrika shares how companies can use this approach to create deeper connections and build powerful, lasting relationships with their customers. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the customer's journey, passion, and personal story rather than just the outcomes of a project. Patrika also provides insights into creating a culture that keeps the customer's voice at the forefront and offers her expertise on implementing customer eminence in organizational practices. Tune in to learn the nuances of unlocking the true value behind customer stories.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:53 Guest Introduction and Role01:49 Understanding Eminence03:02 Challenges and Misconceptions03:37 Building Customer Relationships 07:34 The Importance of Passion11:11 Practical Advice for Companies13:22 Connecting with the Guest14:36 Personal Insights and ConclusionConnect with Patrika on LinkedInSee the show archives and sign up for episode updates