When Laurie first stumbled into the HR world, what struck her was not just the depth of paperwork but the human stories behind each form and policy.

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, fast forward several decades, and Laurie is sitting down with Angela Cheng-Cimini, an HR expert with an enviable three-decade portfolio, to share those very tales that have shaped our careers and the field of human resources. Together, we unwrap the evolution of HR from a back-office function to a strategic powerhouse, reflecting on the times we had to stand our ground and the moments that taught us the true value of our professional worth.

Workplace dynamics are never static, and this episode peels back the layers on wielding influence without the crutch of rank or authority – a nuanced art in HR. Angela and Laurie swap stories from the trenches, discussing confrontations with workplace bullying and the leaps of faith in self-advocacy that propelled our careers forward. We also delve into how we've seen HR evolve, moving from policy enforcers to holistic partners in business strategy and the critical role of mentoring up-and-coming HR champions.

Peering into the crystal ball, Angela and Laurie discuss the future of work, tackling the burning question of whether the traditional nine-to-five is on its last legs. We unravel the implications of a global talent pool, the urgency for flexible work solutions, and the importance of doubling down on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in a world constantly reshaping its social contours.

This episode isn't just a walk down memory lane but a rallying cry for innovation in HR practices and an example of the irreplaceable human element in the workplace.

In this episode, you will hear:

• HR's transformation from administrative paperwork to strategic business partnership
• How HR professionals can exert influence without relying on hierarchical power
• Standing up against workplace bullying and advocating for self-worth
• Addressing generational differences in the workplace
• The urgency to enhance DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives amid shifting social dynamics
• The future of work, including the viability of the traditional nine-to-five workweek and the rise of remote work opportunities from a global talent pool
• The evolution of HR practices and the ongoing need for mentorship in developing strategic HR leaders
• Social media’s role in shaping employer branding, talent acquisition, and the challenges of fostering authentic dialogue in the digital age
• Committing to DEI efforts within organizations and “doubling down” despite potential societal and legislative backslides.

Resources from this Episode

• Connect with Angela Cheng-Cimini on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/angela-cheng-cimini-160890a

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Episode Credits

If 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.

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, discover the secrets to aligning your career with your personal values as Laurie chats with BlogHer co-founder Elisa Camahort Page.

We walk down memory lane, reminiscing about the early internet days that revolutionized communication and fostered female empowerment through blogging. Elisa and Laurie’s conversation is a goldmine for understanding the delicate balance between nurturing a company's growth and adhering to your original mission—even when boardroom battles and investor pressures loom large. Plus, we get the inside scoop on Optionality, Elisa's latest venture with Jory Des Jardines, which reimagines professional communities for those who want to weave their values seamlessly into their work lives.

Prepare to explore the evolution of workplace culture, where the gig economy and the Great Resignation have reshaped our expectations for flexibility and meaningful work. Through the lens of Elisa's extensive experience, we discuss the transformation from online arenas full of bots and trolls to intimate sanctuaries crafted within platforms like Substack and Slack. Learn how these digital spaces nurture a new breed of online communities—private, controlled, and rich with engagement.

Whether you're a corporate veteran, an HR aficionado, or a solopreneur, this episode is your gateway to understanding and shaping the digital workplace of tomorrow.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Elisa Camahort Page’s reflections on the early internet's role in female empowerment and community building through blogging
• The balance between company growth and staying true to original missions, even under investor pressures
• An introduction to Optionality, a venture aimed at redefining work-life integration and aligning careers with personal values
• Evolving workplace culture and the impact of the gig economy and the Great Resignation on expectations for work flexibility.
• The transition from public online platforms to private, controlled digital spaces like Substack and Slack
• The shift towards intimate, engagement-rich communities
• Elisa's path from corporate tech to media and her desire to build a product with intrinsic value
• Optionality and its aim to be a community-driven platform that fosters collaboration between workers seeking flexibility and companies adapting to the future of work

Resources from this Episode

• Visit the Optionality website: optionality.life
• Elisa Camahort Page’s website: elisacp.com
• Connect with Elisa on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/elisacamahortpage

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 Credits

If 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.

Imagine a world where leaders aren’t buried in spreadsheets and are fully present, creating a heartbeat within their organizations through genuine connections.

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, that's the future Kevin Brady, a pharmaceutical industry veteran and founder of Performance Unlocked, envisions. Kevin and Laurie examine the inevitable revolution in leadership, where artificial intelligence offloads our analytical burdens, causing leaders to cultivate empathy and forge deeper relationships with their teams. It's a future where algorithms crunch the data, leaving us to master emotional intelligence—a skill set essential for any business to survive and thrive in the rapidly approaching 2030s landscape.

As Kevin shares stories from his path, we uncover the soft underbelly of leadership—a place where vulnerability meets strength and where creating a culture of open communication and innovation is paramount. We dissect the repercussions of inadequate leadership and celebrate heart-centric guidance to uncover creativity and drive organizational success. This conversation goes beyond industry boundaries and offers HR professionals and leaders a new perspective.

Join us for a session that will challenge your preconceptions of leadership and inspire you to engage with your workforce in a way that leaves a lasting imprint.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Kevin Brady’s thoughts on the evolving role of leadership and the importance of emotional connections in the workplace
• The impact of poor leadership on personal growth and organizational performance
• Leaders’ need to balance analytical skills with emotional intelligence post-pandemic
• Emotional intelligence in leadership as a way to unlock hidden potential and drive innovation
• The generational shift in workplace expectations, with a focus on the shared human need for purpose, belonging, and feeling valued at work
• Kevin Brady's new venture, Performance Unlocked, and how it aims to enhance individual and team performance using emotional intelligence and psychological safety
• The future of leadership where emotional connection with employees becomes the key differentiator

Resources from this Episode

• Visit Performance Unlocked’s website: performanceunlocked.ie
• Connect with Kevin Brady on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brady-80b42618

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 Credits

If 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.

Have you ever wondered how to navigate your first big conference without getting lost in the shuffle?

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, Laurie teams up with Samara Jaffe, co-founder and general manager of Transform, and Josh Schwede, HR tech guru, to share the insider track for newcomers. It's all about striking the perfect balance between self-care and forging deep connections rather than sprinting through every scheduled event.

But there's more to a conference than just showing up. It's about the community and the culture that it grows. Transform, once known as HR Transform, has blossomed into a hub for innovation within the HR industry. Samara is at the heart of it, cultivating a space where executives, leaders, and entrepreneurs can converge to shape the workplace of tomorrow. Through a tapestry of human-centric interactions and even some furry friends, this episode peels back the curtain on how Transform stands out in a sea of professional gatherings.

Finally, we’re not shying away from workplace concerns, addressing topics like women's health and sobriety in the workplace. And let's not forget the Transform Awards, a celebration of industry trailblazers that's anything but your average awards ceremony.

With practical takeaways for maximizing your conference experience and a sneak peek into the eclectic excitement of Transform 2024, this episode will resonate long after its conclusion.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Expert tips for first-time conference attendees, including comfort, hydration, and prioritizing meaningful interactions over attending every session
• Transform 2024 as an HR ecosystem fostering innovation, community, and human-first interactions with unique elements
• Women's health and workplace transformation
• Upcoming talks on contemporary issues and the Transform Awards that spotlight industry leaders
• The unconventional Transform 2024 Awards ceremony
• The future for Transform as it expands to a global community intersecting workforce, healthcare, and education sectors, with potential international events
• Samara Jaffe on creating impactful connections
• Josh Schwede on navigating transitions within the HR tech industry
• Practical advice for conference success

Resources from this Episode

• Visit the Transform website: transform.us/partners/punk-rock-hr-podcast
• Connect with Samara Jaffe on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/samarajaffe
• Find Josh Schwede on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joshschwede

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 Credits

If 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.

Unlock the secrets to a healthier financial and emotional life with Aja Evans, a licensed mental health counselor and financial therapist.

This episode of Punk Rock HR is a deep dive into the intricate connection between our financial behaviors and emotional well-being. Aja helps us see beyond the numbers, revealing how trauma can shape our relationship with money and why the advice to “just budget better” is often a superficial solution to a complex issue.

Alongside Aja, we examine the growing trend of financial wellness initiatives in the workplace, discussing the role of emotional support in achieving financial literacy. We explore how financial therapy could revolutionize employee well-being programs by integrating emotional intelligence into financial education. Throughout our conversation, we share personal stories and reflections on societal attitudes toward money, acknowledging the deep-seated emotions that come with financial decisions.

The path to financial stability is not just about the dollars and cents; it's about personal growth and empowerment. This episode celebrates the victories of those who have emerged from financial hopelessness to a place of confidence and control. We stress the value of community, open dialogue, and fair compensation in fostering a culture of financial empowerment.

Join us as we advocate for systemic change and personal transformation and the undeniable impact of financial wellness on bridging wealth gaps and improving lives.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The emotional aspects of financial behaviors and decisions
• How financial trauma from experiences like job loss or bankruptcy can persist into adulthood and influence financial wellness
• The trend of financial wellness programs in workplaces
• Integrating financial therapy to address both financial literacy and emotional support
• Strategies for managing financial stress, including mindfulness, having a financial plan, and understanding the emotional impact of financial insecurity
• Success stories of individuals overcoming financial struggles
• The importance of personal growth and behavioral changes in financial well-being
• Fostering financial empowerment and bridging wealth gaps with open dialogue, community support, and fair compensation
• Advocating for systemic change and the value of financial education and emotional intelligence in improving overall life quality

Resources from this Episode

• Visita Aja Evans’s website:  www.ajaevanscounseling.com
• Connect with Aja on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ajaevans
• Find Aja on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ajaetherapy

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 Credits

If 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.

Receiving a tough piece of feedback can sting, but it can also be the catalyst for phenomenal career growth.

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, this revelation sets the stage for Laurie’s discussion with Mita Mallick, a luminary in diversity, equity, and inclusion, whose insights and experiences as a marketer, best-selling author, and mother are reshaping the narrative of today's workplace. Their conversation spans from personal trials in the professional world to the myths that stifle true workplace transformation, offering listeners a chance to reflect on the biases and systemic hurdles that persist in corporate environments.

As a storyteller at heart, Mita Mallick dissects how the tales we tell in business can either hinder or advance progress. The episode peels back the layers of diversity and inclusion challenges, addressing head-on the backlash against DEI efforts and the contention between business objectives and social justice. With an eye on the myths that cloud our judgment, from talent assessment to the dynamics of salary negotiation, Laurie and Mita explore the subjective nature of performance evaluations and the importance of debunking misconceptions to establish a more equitable workspace.

The episode continues with future-focused contemplation, looking toward the evolving role of HR as a strategic partner in business and the tug-of-war between remote and in-office work spheres. You’ll hear how HR professionals can harness the power of storytelling and deep industry knowledge to become catalysts for true transformation.

Don’t miss Mita Mallick's expertise on DEI with this must-listen episode of Punk Rock HR.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The role of tough feedback in career growth
• How withholding feedback can hinder professional development
• Mita’s insights on debunking workplace myths that prevent transformation
• The backlash against DEI efforts and the subjectivity in performance evaluations that contribute to inequity
• Continuous feedback, the role of affinity bias in hiring, and challenges women face in salary negotiations
• Storytelling in business as a tool for HR professionals to drive change and align with evolving business landscapes
• Workplace trends such as remote vs. in-office work and the caregiving crisis
• Mita Mallick’s journey to the publication of her book “Reimagine Inclusion”
• Individual initiative in transforming the workplace

Resources from this Episode

• Connect with Mita Mallick on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822
• Get Mita’s book Reimagine Inclusion: Debunking 13 Myths To Transform Your Workplace: amzn.to/3GBFBvS 
• Find Mita on Instagram: www.instagram.com/mita_mallick13

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 Credits

If 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.

Venture capital and HR technology veteran Jason Corsello from Acadian Ventures joins Laurie in an insightful discussion about the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace. In this episode of Punk Rock HR, Jason and Laurie explore the impact of AI technology on innovation and productivity as it expands within Acadian's portfolio.

Their conversation delves into the exciting potential and lurking concerns of AI's role in the future. They debunk the myth of its all-encompassing dominance while underscoring its critical importance in work technology. Jason and Laurie also unravel the complexities of market saturation and the quest for groundbreaking solutions. They spotlight the promise of a new technological supercycle spurred on by AI, while cautiously considering the balance between augmenting workplace efficiency and the pitfalls of an over-reliant and divided economy.

The discussion is not just limited to painting pictures of a utopian workplace but also sizing up the real-world implications for HR tech in the years ahead. Finally, Jason and Laurie offer an insider glimpse into the venture capital universe, where the emotional rollercoaster of investing meets the strategic play of identifying unicorn startups. They reflect on the essential skills for tomorrow's workforce and the emergence of a boundaryless talent pool in a world facing demographic shifts, while also sharing the stories of Acadian Ventures' latest fundraising successes.

If you're fascinated by the evolving narrative of work tech and the celebration of entrepreneurial spirit, then this conversation is definitely worth a listen.

In this episode, you will hear:

• AI's expanding role in the workforce, including a leap in Acadian's portfolio companies
• AI as an innovation shaper and becoming a staple across all sectors with a balanced approach that enhances without dominating every aspect of life
• Venture capital and the importance of luck, judgment, and market timing in identifying successful startups
• The need for companies to continuously invest in work technology to improve workplace efficiency and address budgetary constraints
• AI's integration into daily tools
• Examining innovative AI applications in HR tech, like Perplexity for advanced searches and Tech Wolf for skill inference
• The challenges of venture capital, including realistic company growth, fiscal responsibility, and the emotional toll of witnessing startup failures
• The importance of future skills and a global workforce
• A stagnant population growth's impact on the labor market and the role of global talent in driving innovation

Resources from this Episode

• Visit the Acadian Ventures website: www.acadianventures.com
• Connect with Jason Corsello on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncorsello

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 Credits

If 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.

Have you ever felt tongue-tied or had your mind blank in the middle of a conversation? You're not alone.

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, you’ll get strategies to conquer those moments. Laurie’s guest is communication expert Matt Abrahams, who unpacks the essentials of his book Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot. They explore the science of crafting messages that resonate with audiences and the power of speech variation to keep their attention rapt. This isn't just another chat about talking; it's an arsenal of techniques to transform anyone into a communication pro – debunking the myth that you're either born with it or you're not.

Matt and Laurie also get real about the sweaty palms and racing hearts that come with high-stakes communication. From revealing HR policies to pitching business ideas to the toughest crowds, Matt shares methods to cope and shine. Controlled breathing, focus grouping, ditching filler words – they cover it all, ensuring you walk away poised to present with confidence. And for those wondering about the fine line between authenticity and performance, they tackle that, too.

Plug in and prepare to level up your communication skills – and possibly your entire approach to engaging with others.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Strategies from Think Faster, Talk Smarter for improving engagement by tailoring messages and varying speech
• Overcoming the myth that effective communication is innate
• Effective communication is an acquirable skill applicable in various speaking situations
• Techniques for conveying ideas to skeptical audiences and managing anxiety, like controlled breathing and palm cooling
• Authenticity in communication
• How focusing on connecting rather than performing leads to more genuine interactions
• Exploring the “Talk Smarter” method, a six-step approach that includes mindset shifts and message structuring for spontaneous speaking
• Practical tips on anxiety management and effective communication, such as focus grouping, removing hedging language, and practicing delivery
• Listening well by giving pace, space, and grace to fully understand and respond to communication in the moment

Resources from this Episode

• Visit Matt Abrahams’ website: MattAbrahams.com
• Connect with Matt on LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/maabrahams
• Get Matt’s book: amzn.to/48NKpub

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 Credits

If 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.