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This week on Overall HR, there’s no guest. Just me (Chase).

I’m walking through the same questions I ask every guest and sharing my own HR story: how I landed here, the moments that broke my heart, the ones that clarified my values, and why I believe neutrality is one of the most damaging myths in this profession.

From accidental beginnings to walking away when integrity was no longer negotiable, this episode is about what HR actually carries, what it costs to see everything, and why protecting culture sometimes means being willing to be unpopular.

If you’ve ever loved this work and questioned whether it loves you back... this one’s for you.

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Emily Pearson has spent her career in the spaces where risk is high, scrutiny is public, and HR judgment actually matters.

We talk about isolation, authority without power, why HR gets left out of the room; and why that’s a problem.

This episode is for the HR pros who can see the freight train coming… and are still expected to smile while it does.

In this episode of Overall HR, Chase Niceley sits down with Keisha Toussaint, Founder & CEO of BCC'D HR, a self-described “culture disruptor” who got into HR on purpose; not by accident.

Keisha breaks down the gap between textbook HR and real-world HR, the “ick” of translating harm into policy language, and the weight HR carries when HR has no one to go to.

They talk about moral injury, layoffs, the silence HR is expected to keep, and why “protecting the company” should mean protecting people. Keisha also shares why building an independent practice gave her the freedom to speak truth, walk away from misaligned money, and practice HR with values... not fear.

Daniel’s HR Origin Story explores how an unplanned entry into HR during the 2008 job market shaped a career rooted in judgment, influence, and people-first leadership.

In this episode, we unpack what HR is actually responsible for beyond compliance, why the idea that “HR protects the company” falls short, and how COVID permanently shifted the expectations placed on the function. Daniel shares the pressure HR carries quietly, the moments that challenge personal values, and where he believes the profession must evolve next. This conversation is for HR professionals, leaders, and anyone who wants to understand the human side of work more honestly.

In this episode of Overall HR, Chase sits down with inclusion strategist Amri B. Johnson to unpack the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in organizations. They tackle common misconceptions, the balance between meritocracy and DEI, and how data-driven hiring can foster genuine workplace diversity. The discussion also dives into the challenges of navigating polarized DEI conversations, emphasizing the need for curiosity, empathy, and fact-based decision-making. Amri highlights actionable strategies for creating inclusive cultures where all employees can thrive, even amidst social and political divides.

In this episode, Chase and Chase Dodson discuss the evolution of HR and the impact of applicant tracking systems (ATS) on modern recruitment. They explore how technology has transformed hiring, the importance of streamlined communication, and challenges like time to fill and candidate engagement. Focusing on the hospitality industry, they examine the complexities of candidate experience, the role of delegation, and the implications of DEI initiatives and privilege in hiring. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the need for a balanced approach that benefits both employers and candidates.

In this episode of Overall HR, Chase interviews Sandy Adams, a successful entrepreneur and owner of Century 21 Pinnacle and Just Love Coffee Cafe. Sandy shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced in the real estate industry, and her passion for empowering her agents and employees. The conversation delves into the importance of trust, empowerment, and employee engagement, as well as the significance of personal development and the pursuit of greatness in business. Sandy's insights and experiences provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.

In this episode, Chase speaks with Michael Franco about the evolving role of HR, particularly in the context of fractional HR services. They discuss the importance of aligning HR strategies with business goals, the need for effective communication within teams, and the transition from fractional to in-house HR as businesses grow. Franco emphasizes the value of HR as a strategic partner rather than just a reactive function, and the potential for technology to enhance HR's impact on business outcomes.