Transform Your Workplace: Recent Episodes
Xenium HR
The Transform Your Workplace Podcast covers everything you need to build a great workplace. Industry experts, thought-leaders, HR experts and entrepreneurs join us to discuss big ideas that can transform your organization. Each week we cover a new topic, ranging from HR, communication and culture to business growth, leadership and workplace trends. Access more episodes, subscribe, and learn more.
Deloitte's David Mallon on the Culture Debt AI Is Building
Most organizations are treating AI like the last big tech rollout. Buy the licenses, run some training, expect results. The data says that approach is backfiring.
David Mallon leads the research behind Deloitte's Global Human Capital Trends report, now in its 15th year. In this conversation, he explains why 59% of organizations taking a tech-first approach to AI are 1.6 times more likely to miss the return, and what changes when you redesign the work instead of layering tools on top of it.
Brandon and David get into the human side of the shift. Work slop and what it means for developing people when entry-level roles disappear. Culture debt, and the 80% of leaders and workers who suspect their teammates are using AI to look more productive. Decision rights, and why accountability breaks down when nobody can trace a choice back to a person. And the question sitting underneath all of it: who actually owns work.
There is a practical throughline here for small and mid-sized companies. You do not need a transformation budget to start. You need to think in capabilities, build friction back in where people need to practice, and say out loud what counts as good work now.
About our guest David Mallon is a managing director at Deloitte Consulting LLP and head of research and chief futurist for Human Capital in the US. He has more than 25 years of experience in human capital and has been a contributor to Deloitte's Global Human Capital Trends study since its inception. He leads Insights2Action, Deloitte's Human Capital decision intelligence capability, and is a former head of research for Bersin. He co-hosts the Capital H podcast and speaks widely on organization design, culture, HR strategy, and learning.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Welcome and what this episode covers
- 01:45 Why 2026 is the year leaders can no longer sit on the fence
- 04:15 The tech-first trap and why AI is not the last tech wave
- 05:40 What a human-centric approach looks like in practice
- 07:25 Hardwiring and softwiring when you design human and AI work
- 08:40 The telecom example, 5% versus 30%, and the lesson for smaller companies
- 10:50 How to bring an entire organization along on new tools
- 13:00 Fabrication, embellished profiles, and verification in hiring
- 15:15 Work slop, the experience gap, and building friction back in
- 17:30 Decision rights, machine autonomy, and where accountability lives
- 19:15 Culture debt and what suspicion does to a team over time
- 21:30 Isolating what the human actually brings to the work
- 22:35 A history teacher's assignment as a model for verification
- 24:45 The orchestration gap and what is getting in the way
- 27:15 Who owns work, and the trio organizations will need
- 29:40 Have organizational functions outlived their function
- 31:45 The biggest change workers felt this past year
- 33:25 Decisions that echo and the one message for every leader
- 35:20 What David wants people to take away and act on
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Resource mentioned: 2026 Global Human Capital Trends report
Connect with David Mallon: LinkedIn X Deloitte profile
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
How you feel on Sunday night tells you something real about your relationship with work. Amy Leneker, the author of Cheers to Monday, calls it one of the most honest assessments we have, and she would know. Seven weeks into medical leave after a panic attack, she sat in a doctor's office, got handed a questionnaire, and could not answer a question about what she did for fun.
In this conversation, Amy walks through what she learned from that unraveling and the research that followed. She explains the difference between the stress that helps you perform and the stress that wears you down, and why leaders and their teams so often talk past each other on exactly that point. She shares the zero-to-10 question that opens up a conversation about stress without putting anyone on the spot, her three-step See, Sort, Solve method, and how to separate what you can control from what you cannot.
There is a lot in here you can use this week if you lead people. Including one calendar trick involving a standing Friday appointment with Dr. Green.
About our guest
Amy Leneker is the founder and CEO of the Center for Joyful Work and the author of Cheers to Monday: The Surprisingly Simple Method to Lead and Live with Less Stress and More Joy, published by Wiley in 2026. The book debuted as the number one bestselling business book on the USA Today list. Amy spent more than two decades in leadership, including ten years in the C-suite, before burnout forced a different path. She has studied leadership at Yale, neuroscience at the NeuroLeadership Institute, and stress resilience at Harvard Medical School. She leads an annual national workforce study on stress and joy at work, has trained more than 100,000 people, and hosts the Less Stress, More Joy podcast. She and her family live in the Pacific Northwest.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Intro and sponsor
- 02:10 The question in a doctor's office she could not answer
- 05:05 The signs she ignored for years
- 05:55 Why your Sunday night mood is honest data
- 07:10 Turning her own burnout into a literature review
- 09:35 Eustress and distress, and why leaders and teams talk past each other
- 11:40 The check engine light and the cost of waiting
- 13:20 See, sort, solve
- 15:25 The stress ruler and the zero to 10 question
- 19:40 Stress and joy are both contagious
- 20:45 Values that leave you out will burn you out
- 24:10 Sorting what you can control from what you cannot
- 26:45 Why the people quickest to offer help are the slowest to ask for it
- 28:50 Cancel a meeting
- 30:20 The Dr. Green calendar story
- 32:35 What leaders get wrong in uncertain moments
- 34:45 Stress thrives in isolation
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Mentioned in this episode: Xenium HR Leadership Cohorts
Connect with Amy Leneker: Website LinkedIn Cheers to Monday
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
You wrote the announcement, rehearsed it, sent it, and a week later the questions rolled in anyway. In this episode, communication strategist Lee Caraher explains why most workplace communication fails on delivery, not message, and what to do about it. She shares a practical three-send formula for making any announcement stick, a protocol for deciding which messages belong in email, Slack, or a meeting, and a test for knowing whether your message actually landed. Silence and nodding, it turns out, are the clearest signs it didn't. Lee also makes the case for retiring the feedback sandwich for good and shows how to remove the ambiguity that quietly creates conflict, starting with how you assign a deadline.
About our guest Lee Caraher is the founder and CEO of Double Forte, a national public relations and digital media agency based in San Francisco. A communication strategist known for practical solutions to big problems, she is the author of Millennials and Management and The Boomerang Principle. This is her third appearance on the show.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Intro and a word from Xenium HR Compensation Services
- 02:00 Why communication fails on delivery, not message
- 05:30 The three-send formula for big announcements
- 08:00 Building a receptacle for questions
- 10:30 Mixed messages and the four parts of delivery
- 13:00 Yes-people and why leaders need truth-tellers
- 14:30 Using AI tools to critique your own delivery
- 16:00 Reading the room and adapting your style
- 20:45 Which messages belong in which channel
- 25:00 The case for a weekly leader email
- 25:45 Nodding heads mean they didn't get it
- 34:00 Crisis, apologies, and losing control of the narrative
- 38:20 What a real deadline includes
- 43:30 Throw away the feedback sandwich
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Lee Caraher: Website LinkedIn
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Stress has become so normal at work that plenty of people wear it like a badge. Justin Hai wants that to change. He is the co-founder and CEO of Rebalance Health and the author of Stress Nation, and he studies what our always-on habits do to our stress, our sleep, and our health.
Justin breaks down cortisol, the hormone he calls the body's alarm system, and explains why it gets stuck in the on position when we never put the phone down. He makes the case that sleep is the first thing to protect, not the last, and that most of the shortcuts people reach for are treating symptoms instead of the cause.
Brandon and Justin also get practical. You will hear simple changes you can make with your phone, your evening routine, and your schedule to feel more like yourself again. They talk through why in-person connection lowers stress, the real difference between stress and anxiety, and why running your work life on four hours of sleep is a decision you would never make behind the wheel.
If stress has become a badge of honor on your team, this one is worth sharing with them.
About our guest Justin Hai is the co-founder and CEO of Rebalance Health, a company focused on cortisol and hormone health backed by clinical research. He is the author of Stress Nation: Escape the Technology Trap, Eliminate Stress, and Reclaim Rest, published by Wiley. Before Rebalance, he co-founded Alastin Skincare and GLO Pharmaceuticals. He holds a degree in industrial design from RISD and an MBA from Pepperdine. His work centers on how modern technology disrupts cortisol, sleep, and overall health, and what people can do to get back into balance.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Intro and sponsor
- 01:35 Why stress belongs on a workplace podcast
- 02:20 How your devices are making you sick
- 04:40 Cortisol, your body's alarm system
- 07:20 Why protecting your sleep comes first
- 09:15 What throws your cortisol out of balance
- 11:30 Your phone as a trigger and the trap of social media
- 14:40 The real cost of being always on
- 16:45 Practical habits to reset your phone and routine
- 19:40 Why in-person connection beats a screen
- 23:00 Stress versus anxiety
- 24:45 In-person versus remote work
- 27:10 JOMO and the power of being present
- 30:10 Would you run your life on four hours of sleep
- 32:40 Tracking stress and what your body already knows
- 36:30 Simple tips for better rest
- 38:35 Finding hope, and where to find Justin
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Justin Hai: LinkedIn Instagram Website
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Most leaders think self-awareness means understanding their patterns. Cam Yenokida sees where that falls short. The executive coach and founder of Achieve Excellence explains why intellectual self-awareness alone never changes anything, and what it takes to turn insight into new behavior.
Cam and Brandon get into the quiet reality of senior leadership, where the higher you climb, the less room you have to think out loud. They talk about what actually makes a leader coachable, why assessments are a starting point and not an answer, and how a simple look at your calendar can reveal where your attention is really going.
Cam spent 20 years in corporate leadership before starting his own practice. He shares the turnover problem that became a defining moment, the two-year onboarding approach behind it, and what separates leaders who are good from those who become excellent.
About our guest
Cam Yenokida is an executive coach and the founder of Achieve Excellence, based in Lake Oswego, Oregon. He spent more than 20 years in corporate leadership before starting his own practice, and he has facilitated over 200 leadership and team development workshops. Cam coaches leaders at every level, from solo entrepreneurs to senior executives, using a systematic approach built around diagnostics, planning, implementation, and follow-up. His focus is on helping leaders move from understanding their patterns to actually changing how they show up.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Welcome and why pay is a quiet driver of turnover
- 01:00 Meet Cam Yenokida
- 02:00 The patterns that pulled Cam toward developing leaders
- 04:00 The turnover problem that became a defining moment
- 05:00 Why onboarding should last two years, not 90 days
- 09:00 Leaving a 20 year career to start Achieve Excellence
- 11:00 The identity shift of becoming the brand
- 14:00 The blind spot of self-awareness that stays intellectual
- 16:00 Turning awareness into real behavior change
- 18:00 Why senior leaders lose room to think out loud
- 20:00 Helping teams say what usually goes unsaid
- 22:00 Assessments as a starting point, not an answer
- 24:00 The three signs of a coachable leader
- 27:00 Leading with clarity and auditing your calendar
- 31:00 What moves a leader from great to excellent
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Cam Yenokida: Website LinkedIn
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Most leaders treat their technology problems as technology problems. Richard Tarity has spent 26 years watching companies prove otherwise.
In this episode, Brandon Laws talks with Richard, the founder of truCX and author of The Intelligence Within, about why how an organization decides matters more than the tools it buys. They get into how slow discovery quietly kills good projects, why sitting on the sidelines costs more than picking the wrong tool, and how some teams gather more insight in one week than others do in ten months.
Richard shares real stories, including a healthcare company that spent ten months on discovery and still watched the project fall apart, and a utility company that rebuilt its customer operation in weeks after a major storm. Along the way, he walks through a four-step framework for making faster decisions without cutting corners.
If you have ever sat through a long, careful process and wondered why it still led nowhere, this conversation will give you a clearer way to think about the choices facing your team.
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Richard Tarity is the founder and CEO of truCX, a discovery platform that helps organizations align, plan, and decide faster when they choose new technology. He has spent 26 years in customer experience and technology, guiding companies through business transformations and seeing firsthand where those efforts succeed and where they stall. He is the author of The Intelligence Within, written for leaders who are tired of slow discovery cycles and want a clearer, faster way to make big decisions.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Welcome and the book behind the conversation
- 00:10 Technology isn't the bottleneck, deciding is
- 03:08 The illusion of progress and a discovery that failed
- 06:27 The paradox of choice and getting yourself right first
- 08:15 The bigger AI risk, wrong tool or no move at all
- 11:58 Why slow discovery only looks like due diligence
- 15:05 Netflix, Blockbuster, and the price of hesitation
- 17:29 A four-step framework for faster discovery
- 21:37 Blame or structure, what alignment problems really signal
- 24:46 Continuous improvement and tapping tribal knowledge
- 27:56 A utility company's turnaround after the storms
- 32:36 Take the future, what to do this week
- 34:07 Where to find Richard and the book
RESOURCES MENTIONED
- The Intelligence Within by Richard Tarity (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Intelligence-Within-Organizations-Breaking-Complex/dp/B0FCCV53C7
- The Intelligence Within on Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Intelligence-Within-Audiobook/B0FRNG1ZN7
- truCX: https://trucx.net
- Richard Tarity: https://richardtarity.com
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Richard Tarity:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtarity/
- Website: https://richardtarity.com
- truCX: https://trucx.net
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon
- About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website: https://xeniumhr.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
#TransformYourWorkplace #Leadership #DecisionMaking #DigitalTransformation #CustomerExperience #ArtificialIntelligence #ChangeManagement #BusinessStrategy #Podcast
The job market feels broken to a lot of people right now. Bonnie Dilber has a different read on it. As Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Zapier, she looks at hiring data for fun, and she says the problem is not that the jobs disappeared. It is that more people are competing for a pool of roles that has stayed flat, while plenty of work in trades, healthcare, and education goes unfilled.
In this conversation, Bonnie and Brandon Laws get honest about what is actually happening in hiring. They cover the myths job seekers still believe, why AI-written resumes are making recruiters work harder, and how Zapier is using agentic AI interviews and automation across its process. Bonnie also shares direct advice for anyone stuck in a long search, including why your self-assessment is probably off and where the real opportunities are.
If you hire people or are looking for your next role, this one is worth your time.
About our guest
Bonnie Dilber is the Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Zapier, where she leads recruiting for the company's business and go-to-market teams. She started her career in education through Teach For America, spent 4 years in the classroom, and moved into teacher development before making the jump to tech recruiting. Today, she is one of the most followed recruiting voices on LinkedIn, and she writes a newsletter for job seekers called Landed.
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00 Intro
- 02:00 From the classroom to tech recruiting
- 04:00 Why she left education for Zapier
- 07:00 Building a following on LinkedIn
- 09:00 The biggest myth about applicant tracking systems
- 11:00 What the job market actually looks like
- 16:00 AI resumes, fraud, and verifying real candidates
- 18:30 Honest advice for a long job search
- 23:00 How AI is helping Zapier hire
- 30:00 Hiring for roles that may not exist in a year
- 36:00 AI and equity
- 41:00 How to vet new HR technology
- 43:00 Where to find Bonnie
Resources mentioned: Landed BrightHire Zapier What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Bonnie Dilber: LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Newsletter
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
What does it mean to truly see your employees? In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Zhou Fang, founder of Intersectional Group LLC, to explore how an intersectional lens can transform the way leaders support their teams. Zhou draws on her experience as an immigrant, multilingual professional, and DEI consultant to unpack what most organizations get wrong about inclusion, how to hold people accountable with warmth and compassion, and why your people are your most important business decision. Whether you're leading a team of five or five hundred, this conversation will challenge you to do better and give you the tools to start!
Key Timestamps
00:02 Welcome and introduction of Zhou Fang, founder of Intersectional Group LLC
00:33 How Zhou's immigrant experience, coming to the U.S. in 2010, shaped her perspective on the workplace
01:04 "Don't make us feel like an alien": What immigrant workers need from employers
02:12 Defining intersectionality and why it matters for leaders and business owners
04:16 How an intersectional lens helps turn workplace problems into opportunities
07:13 How Zhou developed her intersectional lens through lived experience in the U.S. workforce, not in the classroom
09:51 What good and bad employer experiences taught Zhou about what workplaces should look like
11:40 What most leaders miss when supporting employees on visas or non-citizens
14:32 How to start the intersectionality conversation inside your organization
16:34 The most common misunderstanding organizations make when beginning DEI work
18:34 Why deprioritizing people is a harmful business decision
20:16 Practical, low-cost steps small organizations can take to support their teams
22:06 Balancing warmth and accountability: why they are not opposites
24:52 The difference between empathy and sympathy, and why it matters for leadership
28:16 What Xenium HR does internally to build curiosity and belonging across teams
29:38 How company retreats and shared experiences build connection in remote and hybrid environments
31:12 Topics and conversations happening on Zhou's podcast, The Intersection
34:09 What Zhou is hearing across the HR landscape right now: burnout, mental wellbeing, and the need for flexible policy
36:28 Where to find Zhou and her upcoming April event in Portland
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
What separates a leader people want to follow from one they're quietly escaping? Mark Miller, longtime Chick-fil-A executive and co-author of the bestselling book The Secret: What Great Leaders Know and Do, joins Brandon Laws to unpack the timeless leadership framework he helped develop over 25 years of research. With more than 700,000 copies sold and now in its fourth edition, The Secret has reached leaders in 32 languages because it's built on something most leadership books skip entirely: the character beneath the skills.
In this conversation, Mark walks through the SERVE framework, a behaviorally grounded model built on five fundamentals: See the future, Engage and develop others, Reinvent continuously, Value results and relationships, and Embody the heart of a leader. He and Brandon dig into why character is the overlooked "turbocharger" of effective leadership, how most leaders learn by trial and error (and why that fails them), and why the best leaders never stop reinventing themselves.
Whether you're a seasoned executive or a new leader trying to find your footing, this episode is packed with practical, proven insight you won't want to miss.
KEY TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:00] Introducing Mark Miller and The Secret [00:01:00] Why The Secret has sold 700,000+ copies and resonated globally across 32 languages [00:02:00] The iceberg model: why character (90%) matters more than skills (10%) [00:05:00] How new leaders typically learn (trial and error) and why organizations fail them [00:06:00] The key question every leader must ask: "Am I self-serving or a serving leader?" [00:07:00] The origin of the SERVE framework at Chick-fil-A [00:11:00] Breaking down all five fundamentals of SERVE [00:12:00] S: See the future and how to make vision and values stick beyond the wall [00:15:00] The storytelling habit that amplifies culture and gets people to take the vision seriously [00:18:00] E: Engage and develop others, starting with who you hire [00:20:00] Fitting vs. fixing people: how to know when someone needs development vs. a different seat [00:22:00] R: Reinvent continuously and why change is the price of progress [00:23:00] What Mark is personally reinventing right now (even after 13 books) [00:25:00] V: Value results and relationships and why you can't pick one [00:29:00] E: Embody a leader's heart and what a "heart transplant" actually looks like [00:31:00] Heart habits you can cultivate and why willingness is everything [00:33:00] The ministry of presence: why just showing up matters more than what you say [00:34:00] The one habit Mark says is "first among equals": thinking others first [00:36:00] Mark's closing challenge: Don't wait. Start today.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
What if the problem was never the student, but the system? In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Beven Byrnes, Executive Director of Bridges Middle School in Portland, Oregon, the only school in Oregon exclusively serving neurodivergent students. Beven shares how Bridges is flipping the script on traditional education through relationship-based teaching, sensory-aware classrooms, and a deep commitment to belonging. But the conversation doesn't stop at the classroom door. Beven connects the dots between what neurodivergent students need to thrive and what employers are still getting wrong. If you're a business leader, HR professional, or anyone who believes every person deserves a place where they can do their best work, this episode will challenge how you think about talent, culture, and what it really means to build an inclusive workplace.
KEY TIMESTAMPS
00:02 Welcome and introduction to Beven Byrnes and Bridges Middle School 00:44 Why traditional school systems fail neurodivergent students 01:50 The power of relationship-based teaching and small class sizes 02:23 Preparing students for the workforce and the gap employers still need to close 03:39 Compliance vs. belonging: Why the model has to change 05:48 Real examples of meeting students where they are, including advanced algebra with a calculator 07:15 What belonging actually looks like and why it unlocks learning 09:34 The role of language in shifting from a deficit to an asset-based approach 10:24 Neurodivergent brains and AI: A blessing, a challenge, or both? 12:12 Project-based learning and why multiple pathways for demonstrating knowledge matter 14:22 Sensory-aware classrooms and how physical environment shapes engagement 16:34 Movement breaks, reset time, and the small changes that make a big difference 17:30 How Bridges rebuilds confidence in students who've been told they don't fit 19:15 Where students go after Bridges and what success looks like long term 22:02 Self-advocacy as a core life skill for the classroom and the workplace 24:19 What neurodivergent employees bring to teams that employers often overlook 25:38 Why inclusive workplaces benefit every employee, not just neurodivergent ones 27:48 Practical steps business leaders can take to better support neurodivergent employees 30:27 Why language matters and how HR professionals can lead lasting change
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
If 82% of people lack a time management system and the average worker spends half their day on low-value tasks, what's the real cost of doing nothing about it? In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with bestselling author Peter Economy, who has written over 140 books, to dig into his latest release, Wait, You Need a Win? The Essential Guide to Time Management, Productivity, and Powerful Habits That Get Things Done. From the neuroscience behind habit formation to the Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand framework, Peter shares practical, immediately actionable strategies for anyone who has ever ended the day wondering where the time went. If you've been meaning to get more intentional about how you work and live, this conversation is your sign.
Key Timestamps:
[00:01] Welcome Back, Peter Economy Brandon introduces return guest Peter Economy and his latest book on time management and productivity.
[00:54] Why 82% of People Still Don't Have a System Peter explains why most people avoid time management and how ingrained habits keep us stuck in low-value routines.
[02:17] The Real Cost of Poor Time Management Research shows the average employee loses about 500 hours per year to unproductive work. Peter breaks down what that means for individuals, teams, and organizations.
[03:24] Phones, Interruptions, and the 23-Minute Rule The average person picks up their phone 96 times a day, and a single interruption costs over 23 minutes of refocus time. The numbers are hard to argue with.
[07:03] The Paradox of Time We think we have all the time in the world. Peter explains why that illusion is one of the biggest obstacles to getting anything meaningful done.
[08:26] Working from Home Like You Mean It Remote and hybrid workers face a unique challenge: the people around them don't always see them as "really working." Peter shares how to establish non-negotiable work boundaries at home.
[10:50] Designing Habits Using Neuroscience New habits mean new brain pathways. Peter walks through how to intentionally build routines that actually stick, starting small and building over time.
[13:18] The Right Way to Use a To-Do List More tasks do not mean more productivity. Peter makes the case for limiting your daily list to three to five high-priority goals and why that constraint is a feature, not a limitation.
[16:03] David Allen's Getting Things Done Framework Peter explains the five-step GTD methodology (capture, clarify, organize, reflect, engage) and why it remains one of the most effective systems for managing commitments.
[17:46] Why "No" Is a Time Management Strategy People-pleasing has deep roots, and learning to say no is harder than it sounds. Peter shares how taking on one too many projects changed his approach for good.
[21:21] Protecting Your Calendar from Meetings You Don't Need Research suggests around 76% of meetings are ineffective. Peter offers a framework for protecting your time by declining meetings that don't warrant your presence.
[23:05] The Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand Framework One of the most visual concepts in the book: why tackling your biggest priorities first is the only way to make sure they actually get done.
[25:14] Rest as a Productivity Tool Powering through is overrated. Peter makes the case for taking real breaks, getting outside, and prioritizing sleep as essential parts of a high-performance routine.
[27:17] Using AI to Save Time From Otter AI for meeting transcription and action items to organizing project files in Claude, Peter and Brandon trade practical tips for using AI tools to reclaim hours in your week.
[31:01] Is It Your System, or Is It Your Work? Peter closes with the most important question: if you're chronically unproductive, the problem might not be your framework. It might be that you're not doing work you actually care about.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Most of us answer "how are you?" with busy, stressed, or exhausted, and somewhere along the way we decided that was just the cost of doing good work. Meghan French Dunbar lived that way for years as a startup CEO, until a panic attack made her stop and question the whole script.
In this conversation, Brandon and Meghan get into why so many workplaces wear people down, and what the leaders and companies who do it differently actually do instead. Meghan shares the moment her own success started to break her, the interview that reshaped how she thinks about leadership, and a set of practical habits anyone can start this week. You will hear how to essentialize your time, relationships, and inputs, why the healthiest leaders draw from a wide range of human traits, and how opening the books with her team surfaced ideas and savings she never expected.
It started as a book for working women. By the end, it is plainly for anyone who has poured their whole self into work and wondered if there is a better way to succeed.
About our guest
Meghan French Dunbar is an author, speaker, and workplace strategist. She co-founded Conscious Company magazine, a print publication that launched in 2015 and landed in Whole Foods stores across the country. She grew it with angel funding, stayed on as CEO after the company was acquired, and stepped down in early 2020. Her book, This Isn't Working, came out of that experience and the reflection that followed. In it she lays out ideas like holistic leadership, essentializing, and the unified workplace, all drawn from her conversations with leaders who found healthier ways to build and run their businesses.
Timestamps
- 01:50 The book and the moment on the floor
- 04:15 The panic attack and six months of runway
- 06:50 COVID, postpartum, and a forced pause
- 09:50 Why the workplace was not built for women
- 13:50 The interview that changed how she sees leadership
- 18:30 Holistic leadership and healthy versus toxic traits
- 21:30 Authentic leadership and the story of Jocelyn
- 26:30 From overextended to optimized, and how to essentialize
- 34:45 Harmful workplaces versus beneficial ones
- 40:00 The unified workplace and opening the books
- 44:40 Social success versus soul success
- 51:00 Micro agency and the note to close on
A quick glimpse into our podcast
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Meghan French Dunbar: Website · LinkedIn
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn · Instagram · About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website · LinkedIn · Facebook · Twitter · Instagram · YouTube
You've invested in the dashboards. You've declared data a top priority. So why does transformation still feel out of reach? In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. Sebastian Wernicke, author of Data Inspired: Building an Organizational Culture of Inquiry for Lasting Transformation, to unpack one of business's most frustrating paradoxes: companies that succeed at data... and still don't change. Sebastian challenges the conventional wisdom around data-driven organizations, reveals why human psychology is working against your data strategy, and introduces a more powerful mindset: becoming data inspired. From Goodhart's Law to Netflix's bold decision-making model, this conversation is loaded with ideas that will fundamentally change how you think about data, leadership, and organizational transformation. Don't miss it.
Key Timestamps [00:00] — Welcome & Introduction to Data Inspired
[00:39] — The bold opening argument: data initiatives don't fail; they succeed at keeping organizations the same. Sebastian unpacks the difference between getting modest value from data and achieving true transformation, and why only ~10% of companies ever get there.
[07:38] — Are organizations paralyzed by too much data? Sebastian explains why collecting more data is often a way of avoiding the harder, more courageous work of challenging your own assumptions.
[09:39] — What "data-driven" actually means in practice and why it's harder than it sounds. Sebastian introduces the "data deficit theory" and draws on 50 years of psychological research showing that data often hardens our existing beliefs rather than changing them.
[13:45] — The Charles Barkley moment: what a legendary NBA star's skepticism about data analysts gets right and wrong about using data in sports and business.
[16:03] — How data is collected and used in modern organizations, and why the real challenge isn't gathering data; it's organizing it. (Yes, there's a "data swamp" warning here.)
[18:00] — Why the classic 8-step decision-making model is a myth. Sebastian explains what monkey brain research and animal herds reveal about how decisions are actually made and what that means for how you introduce data into the process.
[22:36] — Goodhart's Law and the GE cautionary tale: the dangerous difference between steering metrics and success metrics, and what happens when leaders confuse the two.
[25:38] — The decision-making spectrum: from fully automated machine-learning decisions to pure gut instinct and how Netflix found the sweet spot between data and human judgment.
[30:17] — AI vs. machine learning: why we're wired to trust the type of automated decision-making that's actually less reliable and what that means for your organization right now.
[33:34] — Data fatigue is real. Sebastian introduces two archetypes, the Dashboard Director and the Data Diver, and explains why you need both to build a truly innovative organization.
[36:31] — A peek into Part 5: The Toolbox, with practical checklists, workshop formats, and tried-and-tested methods developed over 20 years of real-world data projects.
[39:03] — Closing wisdom: why copying what successful companies did is a trap, and what it really takes to lead transformative change with data, including the courage to slow down before you speed up.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
What if the very success of your company is what eventually destroys it? Eric Ries, the mind behind the Lean Startup movement, is back with a warning every founder, leader, and employee needs to hear. In his new book Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad and How Great Companies Stay Great, Eric tackles the question he admits he failed to answer the first time around: once you build something worth protecting, how do you actually protect it?
In this conversation with host Brandon Laws, Eric unpacks the invisible force he calls "financial gravity," the systemic pull that quietly bends companies away from their mission. You'll hear the jaw-dropping story of Saul Price (the man Sam Walton credited as the father of modern retail), the real reason Costco still sells a hot dog and soda for $1.50, and why protecting your company's values is always "too early," until suddenly it's too late. If you care about building a business that means something, this episode is essential listening.
Key Timestamps [00:00:00] — Welcome & episode intro; overview of Eric Ries and Incorruptible
[00:01:30] — Why Eric wrote this book: the personal pain of watching great companies get hollowed out — and what The Lean Startup missed
[00:04:00] — Ordinary failure vs. unusual failure: why success itself is often the cause of collapse
[00:05:30] — The legend of Saul Price: the father of modern retail, his "fiduciary duty to the customer" philosophy, and what happened when investors changed the locks on his office
[00:11:00] — The ultimate A/B test: Fed Mart's destruction vs. the rise of Costco — and what it proves about ethos + governance
[00:14:30] — Redefining corruption: it's not just illegal behavior — it's any act that destroys the moral logic of business
[00:17:30] — Organizations as superorganisms: why founders can wake up and not recognize the company they built
[00:21:30] — Financial gravity explained: the force that pulls every company toward mediocrity (and how to fight it)
[00:25:00] — Why protecting your mission is always "too early" until it's too late — and what happens to founders who wait
[00:29:30] — The $1.50 hot dog: Costco's legendary promise to customers, why Jim Senegal said "figure it out" — and what that cost them
[00:35:00] — Mission statement vs. actual mission: how companies like CloudFlare engineer their values into their business model
[00:40:30] — Transmitting the mission: Costco's food safety program, civic infrastructure, and what it means to truly stand for something
[00:43:30] — Where to find Eric Ries and how to get Incorruptible
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
What does it take to build a thriving, high-performance culture inside one of the fastest-growing tech companies in the world, without ever requiring a college degree to get in the door? Mandy Mekhail, Chief of Staff of People at ClickUp, went from teaching in a classroom to leading the people function at a 1,200-person global company, and her journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, Mandy pulls back the curtain on ClickUp's non-traditional hiring philosophy, their obsession with onboarding excellence, and how they're turning AI agents into literal coworkers on the org chart. Whether you're an HR professional, a people leader, or simply curious about where work is headed, this conversation will challenge the way you think about hiring, culture, and the role of AI in your organization. Don't miss it.
Key Timestamps [00:00:00] — Introduction: Mandy's Unconventional Path to People Leadership From educator to customer support to Chief of Staff of People at ClickUp, Mandy shares the leap of faith that started it all and the mindset that carried her through.
[00:03:00] — Joining ClickUp at Employee #110 Mandy reflects on what it was like to join ClickUp when it had fewer than 100 functional employees and what it's meant to watch it scale to 1,200 people globally.
[00:04:00] — The Role That Shaped Everything: Building the Quality Team Six months into ClickUp, Mandy was tasked with building the customer support quality function — and it became the role that fused her education background with her passion for people impact.
[00:05:00] — Recruiting Power Users: ClickUp's Unconventional Hiring Strategy Forget job boards. ClickUp finds top talent by recruiting passionate product users from online forums and communities — and it's still a core part of their strategy today.
[00:07:00] — Why ClickUp Dropped the Degree Requirement From Day One CEO Zeb Evans made a deliberate call early on: if a bachelor's degree isn't the real signal of capability, don't require it. Mandy explains how skills, integrity, and passion took its place.
[00:09:00] — The Interview Question That Reveals Everything One question ClickUp asks every candidate regardless of role: "Give me an example of when you showed fortitude." Mandy explains why resilience is the great equalizer in hiring.
[00:10:00] — Onboarding 500 Employees with a 99% KPI Success Rate Within 90 Days Mandy breaks down the layered, outcome-first onboarding framework that got new hires fully productive in weeks — by embedding them in the product from day one.
[00:13:00] — Maintaining Culture Across Time Zones, Countries, and Hub Offices With teams spanning San Diego, Dublin, Sydney, Manila, and beyond, Mandy shares how a shared mission and core values become the unifying force across global subcultures.
[00:15:00] — Preventing Burnout in a High-Growth, Fast-Shipping Environment High expectations don't have to mean burnout. Mandy explains why clear communication and respectful manager relationships are the real guardrails — not just PTO policies.
[00:17:00] — Practical Boundaries in a Always-On World Mandy shares her personal rule: the ClickUp mobile app gets turned off at 5 PM. A small habit with a big message about modeling the boundaries you want your team to keep.
[00:18:00] — Inclusion at Scale: How ClickUp Runs Global All-Hands Meetings Rotating time zones, recorded sessions, and a commitment to giving every employee the opportunity to attend live — Mandy breaks down what operational inclusion actually looks like.
[00:19:00] — Why Every Single Communication at ClickUp Lives Inside ClickUp No side channels. No email threads. Every conversation, every message, every decision — all in ClickUp. Here's why that radical commitment powers both inclusion and AI at scale.
[00:22:00] — The AI Agent Hour: One Hour a Week That's Changing Everything ClickUp gives employees one dedicated hour per week to play with AI Super Agents — no agenda, no expectations. Mandy explains how this structured playtime is dismantling fear and unlocking innovation.
[00:27:00] — Advice for HR Leaders Who Are Afraid of AI Mandy's message to people leaders sitting on the fence: don't let your own fear set the tone for the rest of your organization. Start by understanding it yourself — and lean into your compliance and legal superpowers along the way.
[00:29:00] — Where AI Has Made the Biggest Impact in the People Function Tier-one operational tasks are the obvious win, but Mandy points to something most HR teams are still missing: using AI for sentiment analysis of HR processes — and why that's the next frontier.
[00:31:00] — AI as a Multiplier, Not a Replacement On the noise around AI layoffs, Mandy is clear: ClickUp treats AI agents as coworkers, not substitutes. They even appear on the org chart with the same data architecture as human employees.
[00:33:00] — 5,000 AI Agents for 1,200 Employees Inside ClickUp's internal "agent wins" channel and Help Wanted Board — a grassroots knowledge-sharing system that has resulted in more AI agents than people at the company.
[00:36:00] — Closing Thoughts: Don't Be Afraid to Try Something for the First Time Mandy's parting challenge to every listener — whether you're in tech or not: dive in, explore, and trust that understanding AI will transform how you see your role, your team, and your future.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
If you think AI is just another productivity tool your business can bolt on to stay ahead, Shawn Busse has a wake-up call for you. In this riveting conversation, Brandon Laws sits down with Shawn Busse, founder of marketing firm Kinesis, keynote speaker, and one of the sharpest strategic thinkers in the business world, to unpack a truth that most leaders aren't ready to hear: AI isn't going to save companies that have optimized the creativity out of themselves.
Shawn draws on provocative ideas from "The Great Rotation" by Latticework, Kent Beck's explore-expand-extract model, and Blue Ocean Strategy to build a compelling case that decades of Wall Street-driven optimization have left businesses intellectually hollowed out, right at the moment when original thinking matters most. From the collapse of "AI slop" content marketing to the resurgence of the physical, tactile "3D world," this episode is packed with ideas that will challenge how you think about your organization, your people, and your competitive future.
Key Timestamps [00:01] Welcome and Introduction Brandon introduces Shawn Busse and the central thesis of the episode: AI is not going to save uncreative, non-innovative companies.
[01:20] "The Great Rotation": AI and the Supply Shock in the Digital World Shawn unpacks the Latticework article that crystallized his thinking: how AI has turbocharged oversupply in the 2D digital world and why the 3D, tangible world is where value is shifting next.
[04:52] The Rise of "AI Slop" and Why Playing the Volume Game Is a Losing Strategy The conversation turns to how AI-generated content floods channels with "halfway decent" material, and why competing on volume alone is a dead end for businesses.
[07:00] Real-World AI Use Cases: Bookkeeping, Contracts, and Appraisals Shawn shares his own eye-opening experiences using AI to replace a $700 bookkeeping task and to expose critical flaws in a real estate appraisal at zero cost, illustrating how AI is moving up market one low-risk task at a time.
[11:34] Business Is in a Crisis of Creativity Shawn delivers his TED talk moment: how 40+ years of Wall Street-driven optimization has squeezed creativity out of corporate America, and how AI is now wiping out the very jobs that optimization produced.
[13:00] The ADP Effect: When Profit Becomes the Enemy of Innovation Using ADP as a case study, Shawn examines how large companies generate extraordinary profit margins while actively cutting employees and delivering diminishing value, and what that signals for the future.
[19:31] The Subscription Trap: How Innovation Gave Way to Lock-In From HP printers to Adobe to Google, Shawn traces the arc of once-great innovators who traded breakthrough products for recurring revenue extraction, and why AI may finally break those lock-ins.
[22:43] Kent Beck's Model: Explore, Expand, Extract, and What Comes Next Shawn walks through Kent Beck's framework for understanding business lifecycles and makes the case that AI's real opportunity isn't labor replacement; it's unlocking entirely new ways to create value.
[24:40] A Live Example: Using AI to Transform LinkedIn Marketing Strategy Shawn shares a compelling real client story, using AI to analyze a year's worth of LinkedIn data across 18 employees, and the surprising insights about storytelling that emerged with zero expensive subscriptions required.
[28:48] 10% GDP Growth and 10% Unemployment: Weighing Dario Amodei's Prediction Brandon raises the Anthropic CEO's striking economic forecast. Shawn offers a grounded, honest take: respect the prediction, don't panic, but don't ignore it either.
[31:43] From Skeptic to Believer: Shawn's Own AI Journey Shawn reflects on how he went from dismissing AI as Silicon Valley hype to making it a core part of his strategic worldview, and why maintaining a beginner's mind is harder than it sounds.
[33:07] The Opportunity for Small Business: Where Small Can Beat Big Why the democratization of software through AI could give small and mid-sized businesses their best competitive opportunity in decades, if they're willing to think creatively.
[35:02] The Digital Rejection Wave: Phones, Schools, and Anxious Generations The conversation broadens to the rising cultural pushback against screen saturation, what it means for the next workforce, and why the "soft skills" of curiosity, empathy, and communication may be the most AI-proof assets a person can have.
[38:35] Blue Ocean Strategy: The Best Answer to an AI-Commoditized World Shawn closes with his rallying cry: stop competing in red oceans of optimized mediocrity and start creating things that have never existed before. AI can optimize what already exists, but it cannot imagine what doesn't yet.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
The labor market is unlike anything staffing veteran Krista DiGiacomo has seen in 24 years, and she's not mincing words about why. In this episode, Krista, franchise owner of Express Employment Professionals in Vancouver, Washington, joins host Brandon Laws to unpack the growing skills gap reshaping hiring today. From soft skills like punctuality and reliability, to hard skills like reading blueprints and running a budget, employers are struggling and the education system is a big part of the story. Krista makes a compelling case for rethinking the four-year degree mandate, investing in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and why the skilled trades may be the most future-proof career path in an age of AI. If you're an employer, job seeker, parent, or anyone invested in the future of work, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.
⏱️ KEY TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Krista DiGiacomo joins the show as the first-ever Express Employment Professionals guest in 580+ episodes
00:51 – The State of the Labor Market: What Krista is seeing on the front lines after 24 years in staffing and why she's never seen anything quite like this
01:19 – The Skills Gap Unpacked: Soft skills (attendance, reliability, punctuality) and hard skills (blueprints, budgets, trade knowledge) are both in short supply
02:53 – Who Uses a Staffing Agency? Krista breaks down the wide range of candidates Express serves, from recent grads to career changers to those reentering the workforce
04:16 – Higher Education's Identity Crisis: Why universities optimized for enrollment over practical application and why a bachelor's degree doesn't mean what it used to
07:50 – Changing the Narrative at Home and in Schools: Why the four-year-degree-or-bust mindset is hurting society and what parents can do differently
08:58 – CTE Programs: The Comeback Story: How Career and Technical Education programs are making a powerful return in high schools and what Krista is doing personally to accelerate that
11:10 – From Classroom to Apprenticeship: How CTE programs are connecting students with local employers, internships, and trade careers through creative funding models
14:00 – The Consultant Role of Modern Staffing: Why Krista challenges clients to question whether a degree requirement is actually necessary and what that conversation looks like
17:13 – Making Trades Glamorous: Why skilled trades need a branding refresh for the next generation, and how AI actually makes the case stronger for going into the trades
20:37 – Earning Potential in the Trades: Comparing income outcomes between trade careers and four-year degree paths, and the numbers might surprise you
21:33 – What Happens If We Don't Course Correct: The looming workforce crisis if CTE investment doesn't scale and reasons for cautious optimism
24:20 – The Future of Staffing in a Changing Market: How Krista's team has evolved from order-takers to career consultants and why AI won't replace the human side of hiring
📌 A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
James Ferguson is back on the show to talk about his new book, Seek the Good and Celebrate, and the leadership framework that came out of 12 weeks of chemotherapy. He shares what it was like to lose his job, get a cancer diagnosis, and watch his wife go into early labor all in the same week, and how that experience rewired the way he shows up as a leader. We get into his CONFETTI model, the mindset shift from protecting your team to preparing them, why engagement is a practice and satisfaction is just a promise, and the simple Friday habit he uses to celebrate small wins. Practical, honest, and full of ideas any leader at any level can put to work tomorrow.
Timestamps
- (00:00) Welcome and a quick word from our sponsor, Xenium HR
- (02:00) The mantra born during 12 weeks of chemotherapy
- (04:30) Job loss, a cancer diagnosis, and a premature birth in the same week
- (07:00) Finding the good in the worst day of your life
- (09:30) Why an attitude of gratitude has to be a daily habit
- (11:30) The CONFETTI framework explained
- (13:00) Why most leaders skip celebrating themselves
- (15:00) The Friday gratitude jar practice
- (18:00) Protect or prepare, the mindset shift every leader needs
- (21:00) Coaching your team by asking better questions
- (23:00) Engagement is a practice, satisfaction is a promise
- (25:00) What you want FROM people versus what you want FOR people
- (28:30) Why your biggest wins come on your worst days
- (31:00) What James would tell himself during treatment
Learn more about James Ferguson
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Most companies don't think about employee mental health until something goes wrong and by then, it's already too late. In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Stephen Sokoler, founder and CEO of Journey and author of The Mental Health Advantage, to make the case for flipping that script entirely. Stephen shares his own transformative personal journey from a decade of rollercoaster habits to discovering meditation through a book he bought at a mall and connects those lessons to what he's building at the organizational level. The conversation covers why traditional EAPs are fundamentally broken, what a 30%+ engagement rate looks like compared to the industry-standard 3%, how AI and tools like Journey Signal are enabling real-time proactive mental health support, and why culture change has to start at the top. Whether you're an HR leader, executive, or someone simply trying to build better habits, this episode is packed with insights you can't afford to miss!
⏱️ Key Timestamps 00:02 — Welcome & introductions: Stephen's book, The Mental Health Advantage, and the focus on proactive mental health at work
00:48 — Stephen's personal story: from gym rat to sloth — and how discovering a book called Buddhism for Busy People at a mall changed everything
02:22 — Demystifying meditation: why it's simple but not easy, and what consistent practice actually does for your day
05:05 — The reactive vs. proactive gap: why society — and employers — default to treating mental illness rather than building mental wellness
08:14 — The EAP problem: why only 3% of employees use their benefits, why EAPs are designed to stay in the background, and what a better model looks like
10:30 — Journey's approach: flipping the EAP model on its head to achieve 30–40%+ employee engagement and treating mental health as "the operating system of the company"
11:32 — Mental health is not a peak state: why the goal isn't to "achieve" mental wellness and check a box — it's an ongoing practice, like going to the gym
14:04 — Bridging the gap: supporting employees with diagnosed mental health conditions while simultaneously building a proactive culture for everyone else
16:13 — Constant engagement in practice: how Journey meets employees where they are — from Slack and Teams apps to break room tablets to daily check-in emojis
18:22 — Introducing Journey Signal: the real-time AI intelligence engine that detects patterns and reaches employees before burnout or turnover happens
20:06 — Wearables and the future of data: the promise and current limits of integrating biometric data into workplace mental health programs
22:00 — Leadership buy-in: why culture change starts at the top, and how a CEO's behavior — even indirectly — sets the mental health tone for 25,000 employees
24:36 — Industry-specific mental health: why a law firm and a hospital system have very different needs, and what Journey is quietly rolling out to address that
26:24 — Metrics that matter: from awareness and engagement to clinical outcomes, daily emoji check-ins, healthcare cost trends, and absenteeism
29:25 — AI and the future of mental health: personalized care recommendations, smarter benefit navigation, and why Stephen isn't excited about replacing therapists with AI
35:07 — Parting wisdom: the compounding effect of simple, consistent mental health practices — and how to connect with Stephen and Journey
🔗 Connect with Stephen Sokoler & Journey * Stephen on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stephensokoler * Journey: linkedin.com/company/journeymeditation * Book: The Mental Health Advantage by Stephen Sokoler
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
What if your company's biggest untapped competitive advantage isn't technology or talent, but well-being? In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. Jennifer Posa, an organizational psychologist with 30 years of experience building well-being strategies inside some of the world's most demanding organizations, including Mayo Clinic, Johnson & Johnson, and the CIA. Jennifer shares her bold 2026 predictions for the workplace, explains why most well-being programs fail before they start, and reveals what it actually takes to build a strategy that drives real business results. From psychological contracts to the AI culture crisis brewing right now, this conversation is packed with insights that HR leaders, executives, and people managers can't afford to miss. If you care about the future of your workplace and who's going to be left standing after the next wave of disruption, this episode is essential listening.
Key Timestamps [00:01] – Introduction & Jennifer's Unique Background Brandon introduces Dr. Jennifer Posa and her remarkable 30-year career in well-being at high-performing organizations including Mayo Clinic, Johnson & Johnson, and the CIA.
[00:55] – When Well-Being Became a Strategy, Not a Perk Jennifer shares the personal and professional turning points that revealed well-being isn't just a "nice to have"—it's backed by decades of research showing measurable improvements in business outcomes.
[03:03] – Lessons from the CIA: Well-Being in High-Stakes Environments What does well-being look like when the stakes couldn't be higher? Jennifer unpacks three powerful lessons from her role as Chief Well-Being Officer at the CIA, starting with the critical insight that well-being is individual—not prescriptive.
[07:25] – Proactive vs. Reactive: The Well-Being Gap Most Employers Miss Brandon and Jennifer discuss why so many organizations wait for burnout, turnover, and absenteeism before taking action—and what a truly proactive approach looks like when it's embedded at the C-suite level.
[08:27] – Prediction #1: Accountability Is the Differentiator in 2026 Jennifer's first 2026 prediction: organizations that hold themselves accountable for employee pain points will win. She breaks down what accountability actually looks like—hint: it's a business strategy, not a wellness app.
[13:32] – How to Find the Real Pain Points (Not the Ones You Assume) Jennifer reveals her research-first approach—why she leads with qualitative focus groups before any survey, and how asking "what matters most to you?" unlocks a well-being strategy grounded in truth, not assumption.
[17:59] – Prediction #2: Strategic Employee Relationships Drive Exceptional Growth Jennifer introduces the concept of the "psychological contract" and explains why every decision an employer makes right now is either building or breaking that unspoken agreement with their workforce.
[21:32] – Scaling the Personal: Well-Being Across 140,000 Employees at J&J How do you make well-being feel personal inside an organization with 140,000 employees across 77 countries—during a global pandemic? Jennifer shares how J&J humanized their strategy at scale.
[27:26] – Prediction #3: AI Is a Cultural Issue, Not Just a Technology Issue Jennifer's most provocative prediction: organizations that fail to address the human side of AI adoption will fracture their culture from the inside out. She explains why AI integration is one of the biggest C-suite conversations of our time.
[31:45] – How to Prepare Your Workforce for an AI-Driven World Jennifer offers a practical framework for thinking about AI and humans as collaborative partners—and introduces the concept of "performance tradecraft" to help employees build the brain skills needed to thrive amid rapid change.
[36:49] – Where to Connect with Dr. Jennifer Posa Brandon wraps up the conversation and Jennifer shares how listeners can follow her work, access her insights, and continue the conversation.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Only 21% of people globally are engaged at work. That number hasn't moved much despite years of attention, investment, and intervention. So what's going wrong?
Aoife O'Brien is back on the show to talk about her new book, Thriving Talent, How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention. After 20 years in corporate roles, a Master's in Organizational Behavior, and over 200 conversations with business leaders on her podcast Happier at Work, Aoife built a practical framework that helps leaders stop chasing engagement scores and start creating the conditions where people actually do their best work.
In this episode, Brandon and Aoife dig into why most workplace interventions fail, why busyness is not the flex we think it is, how AI tools are making us busier instead of freeing us up, and why psychological safety is the foundation everything else depends on. Whether you lead a team of five or five hundred, this conversation will challenge how you think about culture, motivation, and what it really takes to help people thrive.
Timestamps
- 0:00 Introduction and sponsor message
- 2:42 Welcome back, Aoife O'Brien
- 3:17 Why global engagement numbers haven't improved
- 5:38 The busyness trap and why it's not productivity
- 8:38 What else is wrong with work today
- 10:22 Why traditional workplace interventions fail
- 12:30 The personal experiences that shaped the Thriving Talent framework
- 15:15 Breaking down the Thriving Talent framework
- 20:20 Psychological safety and the signals leaders miss
- 23:17 How leaders create culture unintentionally
- 26:26 Should you stay or leave a toxic workplace?
- 29:42 Why money fails as a motivator and the case for emotional salary
- 33:26 The Eggbeater Effect and why AI is making us busier
- 37:38 Leadership as the capstone, not the foundation
- 40:42 Where to find the book and connect with Aoife
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaws/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonlaws
- About: https://www.intothepodverse.com/about
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website: https://www.xeniumhr.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenaborhood
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/xenaborhood
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumResources
#Leadership #EmployeeEngagement #WorkplaceCulture #ThrivingTalent #PsychologicalSafety #HRStrategy #PeopleFirst #TransformYourWorkplace
What if the employees struggling most in your workplace are actually detecting problems everyone else will eventually feel? Dr. Ludmila Praslova, organizational psychologist and author of The Canary Code, joins Brandon Laws to unpack why neurodivergent employees are often the first to feel workplace dysfunction and why that signal matters for everyone. From rethinking job postings and ditching "culture fit" hiring to fixing performance reviews that punish personality instead of measuring outcomes, this conversation is packed with practical ideas leaders can act on now. If you've ever wondered why your best people keep leaving or why your culture feels off despite good intentions, this episode will challenge how you think about inclusion, belonging, and what a healthy workplace actually looks like.
Timestamps:
- 0:00 Introduction and sponsor message
- 2:12 Meet Dr. Ludmila Praslova and The Canary Code
- 4:18 Why neurodivergent employees feel workplace dysfunction first
- 7:30 Defining neurodivergence and who it includes
- 9:42 Why the business case for inclusion can actually backfire
- 11:30 What holistic inclusion means and why people aren't brains on a stick
- 13:45 The six principles of the Canary Code framework
- 16:42 Culture fit vs. culture add and why we keep hiring clones
- 19:15 How to rewrite job postings that attract different kinds of talent
- 22:15 Pre-onboarding and setting up belonging before day one
- 24:30 Productivity theater vs. real outcomes
- 26:45 The story of Charlie and fixing performance management
- 28:30 Supporting neurodivergent leaders who are hiding in plain sight
- 32:00 The Glastonbury moment and what true belonging looks like
- 34:30 Where to connect with Dr. Praslova
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonlaws
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonlaws
- About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws/
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website: https://xeniumhr.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenaboratories
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/xeniumhr
What if the secret to sustained business performance isn't strategy, efficiency, or even culture, but love? In this episode, renowned researcher and bestselling author Marcus Buckingham joins host Brandon Laws to discuss his new book Design Love In: How to Unleash the Most Powerful Force in Business. Marcus makes a compelling, data-backed case that "love" isn't a soft concept. It's the most predictive force in driving employee loyalty, customer behavior, and long-term business value. From a behind-the-scenes look at Disney's most beloved executive to a cautionary tale about a Netflix CMO using AI to crank out 26 performance reviews in 20 minutes, this conversation is packed with insights that will fundamentally change how you think about leadership. If you care about building a workplace where people genuinely thrive and a business that sustainably grows, you cannot afford to miss this one.
Key Timestamps [00:00:00] — Introduction: Marcus shares the personal, vulnerable story of selling his company and watching love drain out of the organization he built — the catalyst for everything in Design Love In.
[00:04:00] — The crisis of trust: Why we're living in the least trusting workplace environment ever recorded, what AI and surveillance are doing to human connection, and how leaders must respond differently today.
[00:07:00] — Experience Intelligence: Marcus introduces the core leadership competency that top business schools don't teach — and why experiences, not directives, are the only path to sustained behavior change.
[00:09:00] — The Josh Effect: Marcus recounts his days shadowing Josh D'Amaro, a senior Disney executive, and what his instinctive, human-first leadership style reveals about what great experience design actually looks like in practice.
[00:18:00] — The business case for love: How data from an 8,000-store retailer proved that the relationship between experience and outcomes isn't linear — it's a hockey stick — and why "fives" are the only scores that matter.
[00:24:00] — Why fives and fours are fundamentally different: Marcus explains why lumping top scores together (net promoter score, top-two-box) is a critical mistake, and why the word customers and employees use to describe their best experiences is always love.
[00:29:00] — The Experience Continuum: A framework for understanding the spectrum from exploitative to loving experiences — and how to identify where your organization currently falls.
[00:36:00] — AI, performance reviews, and the Netflix CMO: A real-world cautionary tale about using AI in ways that quietly destroy the very force that drives business value.
[00:42:00] — The Five Feelings of Love: Marcus breaks down the sequential blueprint leaders can use to intentionally design love into any experience — control, harmony, significance, warmth of others, and growth.
[00:50:00] — One thing you can do tomorrow: A simple, 15-minute weekly ritual that activates the first three feelings of love and is the single most powerful thing a leader can do to start designing love in.
[00:54:00] — Where to find Marcus and the book: Design Love In and the new company, Love That.
About the Guest Marcus Buckingham is a researcher, entrepreneur, and bestselling author with roots at Gallup, where he joined in 1987. He has spent decades studying leadership, strengths, and what makes people thrive at work. His new book, Design Love In: How to Unleash the Most Powerful Force in Business, makes the data-driven case that love — properly understood — is the most powerful and predictive force in business. Learn more at designlovein.com or lovethat.com.
A Quick Glimpse Into Our Podcast Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Most leaders get promoted because they're great at their job. But being great at your job and being a great leader are two very different things. In this episode, Brandon sits down with Margaret Andrews, leadership educator and author of Manage Yourself to Lead Others, to explore why self-understanding is the real foundation of effective leadership. Margaret shares stories from decades of working with executives, including the moment a high-achieving engineer stood up in front of his peers and admitted he'd been a terrible manager. They dig into why 85% of the reasons people choose their best boss come down to interpersonal skills, what happens when your intentions don't match your behaviors, and how to build the muscle of pausing before you react. Whether you're a new manager trying to find your footing or a seasoned leader who's hit a wall, this conversation will challenge you to look inward before you try to lead outward.
Timestamps
- 0:00 Welcome and Xenium HR sponsor message
- 2:30 Intro to Margaret Andrews and episode preview
- 3:00 The Dr. Ventura story and why high achievers see themselves in it
- 6:30 Why talent, hard work, and good intentions aren't enough
- 7:00 There's no single right way to lead. So how do you find yours?
- 9:30 The Best Boss Exercise and what 85% of people say
- 14:14 The gap between intentions and behaviors
- 15:45 What happens when leaders stop growing
- 17:30 Phil's story and finding your own definition of leadership
- 20:30 Bad Mood Beth and why self-awareness without self-management falls short
- 22:30 Using the pause between stimulus and response
- 25:45 Sharon's approach to getting the best out of her team
- 27:00 Culture makers vs. culture takers
- 31:30 The John Reed story and why small ethical lapses matter
- 33:00 Why people fear their potential more than their limitations
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon
- About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website: https://xeniumhr.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
#Leadership #SelfAwareness #ManageYourself #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #EmotionalIntelligence #TransformYourWorkplace #HRLeadership #NewManagers #InterpersonalSkills
What happens when the labor shortage economists warned about finally arrives, AI reshapes entire industries overnight, and the economic outlook is anything but certain? Economist Dr. Bill Conerly joins Brandon Laws to break it all down. With over 1,400 speaking engagements and decades of experience advising business leaders, Bill brings a rare combination of sharp data analysis and plain-spoken clarity. This conversation covers the demographic forces squeezing the labor market, why AI's impact on jobs is more uneven than the headlines suggest, how small businesses can start adopting AI without overthinking it, and what a "flexible stance" looks like when the range of economic possibilities keeps widening. If you're a business owner, HR leader, or anyone making workforce decisions right now, this is the episode you need to hear.
Timestamps
- 0:00 Introduction and episode overview
- 2:00 The labor shortage economists predicted is now here
- 5:30 Why doom and gloom forecasts keep missing the mark
- 7:30 Is the pipeline behind Baby Boomers enough to fill the gap?
- 9:30 How an era of labor abundance created sloppy management habits
- 11:00 Are there people who could work but choose not to?
- 13:00 The trades shortage and whether younger workers are filling it
- 15:00 What skills people should be learning in the age of AI
- 17:30 Are AI-driven layoffs real or a convenient excuse?
- 20:00 Could we see 10% GDP growth and 10% unemployment at the same time?
- 23:00 The shift from wanting stuff to wanting experiences
- 26:00 The productivity paradox of doing more but not working less
- 28:00 How small businesses should start adopting AI
- 32:00 Is AI an existential threat?
- 35:00 Fed decision, inflation, and the economic outlook
- 38:00 Why small businesses are struggling while the stock market climbs
- 41:30 What's underhyped and overhyped in the economy right now
- 44:00 What's going on in Oregon's economy
- 45:30 What a flexible stance looks like for business leaders right now
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words:
"The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonlaws
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonlaws
- About: https://www.intakecreative.com/about
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website: https://www.xeniumhr.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenaborhood
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xeniumhr
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/xenaborhood
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/xeniumhr
Connect with Bill Conerly:
- Website: https://www.conerlyconsulting.com
In this eye-opening episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Sarah Allen Benton, licensed mental health counselor, treatment program owner, and author of Understanding the High-Functioning Alcoholic: Breaking the Cycle and Finding Hope. Together, they unravel one of the most misunderstood issues affecting modern professionals and workplaces today: high‑functioning alcoholism.
Sarah shares her personal journey to sobriety, the psychology behind addiction, and the cultural and workplace systems that keep high achievers hidden in plain sight. She offers practical guidance for leaders and HR professionals on creating healthier work cultures, supporting employees in recovery, and recognizing silent struggles before they escalate.
This conversation is raw, insightful, and essential for anyone committed to fostering a workplace where people can truly thrive. This is a powerful conversation that every workplace leader, team member, and caring human should hear.
Key Timestamps 00:02 — Brandon welcomes guest Sarah Allen Benton to discuss high‑functioning alcoholism. 00:39 — How high-functioning alcoholism hides in plain sight. 01:53 — What defines an alcoholic vs. a high-functioning alcoholic. 02:43 — The danger of craving, obsession, and loss of control. 03:19 — Sarah's personal story: from early drinking to "functioning" success. 05:04 — The strict rules high-functioning alcoholics create to justify drinking. 06:15 — Reaching a breaking point and the failed attempts to control alcohol. 07:03 — Sobriety begins: the moment things had to change. 08:20 — The internal motivators that pushed Sarah to recovery. 09:17 — The illusion of "not hitting bottom" and why accountability matters. 10:43 — Why Sarah believes the workplace is full of high-functioning alcoholics. 12:06 — The harmful stereotype of the "chronic severe alcoholic" and why it misleads us. 13:37 — How workplace culture and performance expectations keep problems hidden. 15:05 — The legal field and professions with high rates of alcohol use disorder. 16:28 — How alcohol becomes normalized in workplace cultures. 17:20 — Why alcohol-centered workplace events can be harmful. 18:03 — Rethinking workplace wellness: burnout, alcohol, and healthier alternatives. 19:26 — Younger generations drinking less—what it means for culture. 20:20 — How alcohol-focused events impact employees in recovery. 22:42 — Respecting personal choices: why some people don't drink. 23:18 — The moments and seasons that make sobriety hardest. 25:22 — What happens in the brain: genetics, dopamine, and self-medication. 28:42 — When alcohol stops "working" and the fear that follows. 29:01 — Talking to kids about alcohol and family risk factors. 31:54 — Shame, guilt, and the stigma surrounding alcoholism. 35:47 — Building pride in recovery and finding support. 36:50 — What leaders and HR can do to support employees struggling or in recovery. 39:18 — The first step someone can take if they're questioning their alcohol use. 41:14 — Where to find Sarah's work and additional resources.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
What should you do when someone on your team is struggling? Most leaders default to jumping in and solving the problem. But that instinct, while well-meaning, can do more harm than good. In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Lacey Partipilo, VP of Client Success at Xenium HR, to talk about how leaders can uncover what's really getting in the way of their people's success. They dig into the difference between being stuck and struggling, why leaders need to take their own "backpack" off before coaching conversations, and the ego trap that comes with being the one who always saves the day. If you manage people, this one will change how you show up in your next one-on-one.
Timestamps:
- 0:00 Introduction to the episode and Lacey Partipilo
- 1:48 Why regular time with your people is non-negotiable
- 3:18 The difference between stuck and struggling
- 4:00 Taking the backpack off: going in with an open mind
- 5:07 The three conversations: solve it, fix it for me, or let me vent
- 6:30 Setting ground rules for better one-on-ones
- 7:30 Helping people solve their own problems by asking better questions
- 8:48 Patterns that signal someone is struggling
- 11:48 Building a culture of trust so people can be honest about their gaps
- 13:50 How self-sabotage and outdated beliefs keep people stuck
- 16:22 Why accountability starts on day one, not when things fall apart
- 18:24 The ego trap: why solving feels good but holds your team back
- 19:48 Angela Perkins' advice on finding fulfillment through your team's success
- 21:48 Practical changes leaders can make starting now
- 23:18 Why every leader needs a peer group
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
Connect with Lacey Partipilo:
#Leadership #TransformYourWorkplace #PeopleManagement #Coaching #HRLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeDevelopment #XeniumHR #LeadershipDevelopment #OneOnOnes #ManagerTips #PeopleFirst
In this compelling episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Sharon Gai, author of How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-Driven Economy. Sharon shares eye-opening stories—from witnessing AI compress weeks of work into seconds at Alibaba to her global perspective on how human roles are rapidly evolving. Together, they explore the widening gap between people who embrace AI and those who resist it, and why learning to orchestrate AI—not fear it—will define the next era of work.
Sharon introduces practical frameworks (like becoming a "centaur worker") that help knowledge workers offload repetitive tasks, elevate their creativity, and reclaim agency in a world that often feels like it's moving too fast. If you're unsure how to keep up—or overwhelmed by all the talk of automation—this conversation will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to adapt.
If you miss this episode, you'll miss the roadmap to staying relevant and empowered in the AI economy.
Key Timestamps 00:02 – Welcome Sharon Gai Brandon introduces Sharon and her new book, highlighting its practicality for both beginners and experienced AI users.
01:13 – The Growing AI Divide Sharon explains why the workforce gap isn't just about technology—it's about power, agency, and access to information.
01:43 – The Bee vs. Beekeeper Metaphor How a simple analogy became the foundation for Sharon's philosophy on doing more with less.
04:52 – The Alibaba Aha Moment Sharon shares the night in 2018 when she watched an AI design tool compress weeks of work into seconds—forever changing her view of what's possible.
12:00 – Resistance to AI & Fear of Replacement Why some people reject AI tools and how fear, identity, and uncertainty shape adoption.
15:26 – A Future of AI-First Workflows A discussion on billion‑dollar one‑person companies, automation, and which predictions hold weight.
19:34 – The Centaur Worker Sharon introduces the half‑specialist, half‑orchestrator worker who will thrive in the AI era.
22:15 – Prompting as the New Literacy Why prompting matters and how employees can level up their "prompt IQ."
26:13 – Who Wins the AI Race? Sharon breaks down today's major AI players—ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini—and why switching costs and use cases matter more than loyalty.
32:24 – The Shift Toward AI Companions How hardware devices and wearable AI may shape the next decade.
35:16 – Fear, Opportunity & Public Pressure Balancing utopian and dystopian futures, and why consumer decision‑making still matters.
37:10 – Creativity, Originality & the Camera Analogy Why AI isn't killing creativity—it's redefining it and pushing humans toward deeper originality.
41:07 – The Future of Learning & Upskilling How HR teams can help employees adapt through AI education and fluid intelligence.
45:24 – Where to Find Sharon Gai Sharon shares how listeners can follow her work, speaking, and updates.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more → https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon * About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR * Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR * Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
📋 Episode Description What happens when an HR director reaches her breaking point during a global pandemic — and decides to cope by making memes? For Jamie Jackson, it became a movement. With over 3 million combined followers across her Instagram channels Humorous Resources and Millennial Misery, Jamie has turned the unfiltered reality of workplace life into one of the most relatable communities on the internet. In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Jamie to unpack the behind-the-scenes chaos of HR, what it's really like being laid off when you've spent 22 years laying others off, why employers are flat-out refusing to hire her because of her social media, and why she wouldn't change a single thing. This one is funny, honest, and hits close to home — whether you work in HR or just survive the workplace every day. Don't miss it.
⏱️ Key Timestamps [00:01] — Welcome & introductions: Brandon explains how he found Jamie through Instagram and why he knew she'd make for a great episode.
[00:08] — The meme that defines Jamie: She shares her all-time favorite ("per my last email… they didn't know you were a gangster") and why it perfectly captures her spicy, no-nonsense personality.
[01:50] — The origin of Humorous Resources: Jamie takes us back to the pandemic, when she was an HR director managing 150 employees across four nonprofit health clinics — tracking daily CDC changes and carrying the weight of an entire organization's safety.
[03:07] — Breaking point and birth of a community: Isolated as a "department of one," Jamie created the page as a personal outlet — never expecting it to go anywhere, let alone resonate with hundreds of thousands of HR professionals who desperately needed to laugh.
[05:59] — The vaccine mandate chaos: Employees screaming in her face, and Jamie walking back to her desk to make a meme about it. The coping mechanism at its finest.
[07:04] — How she actually makes memes: Chronically online (now on purpose), stockpiling screenshots, filling her Notes app at her kids' basketball games — Jamie's creative process is equal parts chaotic and brilliant.
[09:49] — Getting laid off after 22 years on the other side of it: Jamie opens up about being let go last April, the dark days that followed, and the identity crisis of an HR pro who suddenly didn't feel needed.
[11:03] — The data-driven HR work nobody wanted to see: She breaks down how she built out an entire HR metrics system — beyond just turnover — and how her new boss didn't see the value, leading to her elimination (and the role being posted two days later for a friend).
[15:11] — Why nobody will hire her: The worst job market since the pandemic, plus employers flat-out refusing to bring her on because of her social media presence. One quote? "I wouldn't touch her with a 10-foot pole." She gets it. She'd still do it again.
[18:21] — Workplace behaviors that get meme-ified: The dreaded Teams "Hi there" with no follow-up. Being called when you're showing green. People lurking outside conference rooms 60 seconds before the booking ends. All of it.
[19:36] — Leadership behaviors that always land: "We're all family." Pizza parties instead of raises. A $5 taxed Starbucks card as the response to low engagement scores. Jamie's delivery here is priceless.
[21:21] — Is humor masking burnout? Brandon asks the uncomfortable question. Jamie's answer: "The line does not exist." A surprisingly honest and important moment in the episode.
[22:13] — HR for HR — Jamie's upcoming keynote speech: She's the closing keynote at an HR conference this April, and instead of positioning HR as the hero, she's going deeper — focusing on what HR professionals need to survive the role, including psychological safety, community, and permission to laugh.
[26:42] — HR Besties Podcast: How Jamie, Ashley Heard (Manager Method), and Lee Henderson (HR Manifesto) got on a call, vibed immediately, and accidentally built one of the most-listened-to HR podcasts — complete with "water cooler talk" featuring wild real-world HR stories.
[29:15] — What's next for Jamie: Leadership coaching, keynote speaking, branded content, and the ongoing mission to make HR people feel less alone — all while being unapologetically herself.
🔗 Connect with Jamie Jackson * Instagram: @humorous_resources * Instagram: @millennial_misery * Personal page: @the_chief_meme_officer * Podcast: HR Besties (available wherever you listen to podcasts)
🎧 A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
🏢 About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Most leaders think delegation is about getting things off their plate. Brad Federman, author of Never Delegate Again, argues it's actually one of the most powerful — and most misused — tools for growing your people, your company, and yourself. In this episode, Brad joins host Brandon Laws to challenge the outdated models that have shaped how leaders hand off work, and introduces a new framework built for today's fast-changing, AI-driven workplace. If you've ever handed an assignment to your go-to person out of convenience, told a struggling employee "just figure it out," or wondered why your team isn't developing the way you'd hoped — this conversation is for you. Don't miss it.
KEY TIMESTAMPS
- 0:00 – Welcome & Introduction — Brad Federman joins the show
- 0:07 – Working harder on someone else's career than they are — the trap well-intentioned leaders fall into
- 1:38 – The Olivia story: how shifting ownership transformed an employee's trajectory
- 3:25 – Brad's unconventional reflection habit — two children's books that help him gain perspective
- 6:05 – Why most delegation models are built for a different era — and how AI is changing everything
- 8:59 – Introducing the Growth Matrix — a new model for thinking about tasks as growth opportunities
- 11:41 – The disappearing entry-level job problem and what leaders must do about it
- 12:18 – Time, reflection, and value: the three ingredients of real growth leaders routinely skip
- 15:50 – Brandon's personal story: a delegation experience from his 20s still in use 17 years later
- 17:20 – Why delegation gets glossed over — and why it's finally time to treat it as a strategic imperative
- 19:02 – Mini-me syndrome and the "I can do it better" trap — how leaders recognize growth-limiting control
- 23:15 – A VP of sales with 25 years of experience and the 6-month benchmark problem
- 25:29 – The Fast Forward Model — meeting people where they are during change
- 29:33 – How to decide what to keep, delete, automate, or assign as a real growth opportunity
- 32:17 – What leaders assume they've communicated clearly — but almost never have
- 33:23 – Leaders as coaches, not players — how to stop stepping back onto the field
- 35:42 – Investment feedback: giving direct, honest feedback that builds confidence instead of fear
- 39:08 – One key takeaway — and why relevance is the new superpower for leaders and companies
- 40:43 – Where to connect with Brad and find the book
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws:
LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon]
Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon]
About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR:
Website [https://xeniumhr.com/]
LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr]
Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR]
Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR]
Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr]
YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR]
What happens when the people leading your organization are silently falling apart — and no one has a system in place to help them? Psychologist and author Melissa Doman returns to Transform Your Workplace to pull back the curtain on one of the most overlooked conversations in the workplace: leadership mental health.
In her new book Cornered Office: Why We Need to Talk About Leadership Mental Health, Melissa makes the case that leaders have been conditioned — by biology, sociology, culture, and centuries of expectation — to hide their emotional struggles. And that silence? It's costing organizations their best people.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who leads, works with, or aspires to lead — because the cost of ignoring this conversation is far greater than the discomfort of having it.
Key Timestamps [00:00] — Welcome & episode intro from host Brandon Laws; why this conversation hits home for leaders
[02:00] — What's in the episode: silence, burnout, and a practical framework for leaders to talk about mental health
[03:30] — Melissa on why she wrote Cornered Office — including the workshop moment in London that changed everything
[07:00] — How leadership mental health has been "quietly erased" by history, biology, and social norms
[10:30] — The psychology of authority, impression management, and why leaders are conditioned to hide emotional struggle
[13:00] — Melissa's three-stage framework: look back, name the present, choose differently — and where leaders get stuck
[16:00] — Why not every workplace is safe for this conversation, and how leaders can find external peer support
[18:30] — What happens when mental health goes unaddressed: burnout, reactive behavior, and the domino effect on teams
[21:00] — How identity, culture, gender, and industry shape whether a leader feels safe speaking up
[24:30] — Systemic change vs. personal responsibility: why individual leaders must take full ownership of their mental health regardless of the environment
[26:30] — Leadership mental health archetypes and why communicating your struggles to your team actually protects them
[28:00] — How to recognize the belief systems (your internal "operating system") that may be quietly undermining your leadership
[31:00] — Mental Wellbeing Non-Negotiables™: Melissa's trademarked, personalized approach to mental health care that throws out one-size-fits-all wellness advice
[34:00] — Why leadership mental health is a strategic and ethical priority — not a nice-to-have
[36:00] — Melissa's biggest takeaway: normalizing the humanity inside leadership is the key to its sustainability
[38:00] — Where to find Melissa, her keynotes, legal compliance program, leadership mental health training, and more
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Most leaders say they value trust. It shows up in mission statements and team meetings. But when trust breaks down, few can explain why performance slows, collaboration frays, or innovation quietly disappears.
Dr. Paul Zak doesn't treat trust as an abstraction. As a behavioral neuroscientist with over 25 years of research, he studies trust the same way an engineer studies load-bearing structures. His work has identified the specific neurochemical, oxytocin, that drives human connection. And the behaviors that trigger it are simpler than most leaders expect.
In this episode, Paul breaks down what trust actually looks like day to day, why autonomy outperforms surveillance, how recognition needs to happen to actually stick, and why human connection matters more than ever in a world shaped by AI and remote work.
Whether you lead a team of five or five hundred, this conversation will change how you think about the small moments that drive performance.
Timestamps * 0:00 Introduction * 2:00 What trust actually looks like at work * 3:30 The role of oxytocin in team performance * 4:48 Why moderate stress builds stronger teams * 6:42 The adjective hack for better Monday conversations * 8:32 Why emotional states are contagious * 9:48 How the brain values experiences (and the 20-minute rule) * 12:28 The real cost of micromanagement and surveillance * 14:30 Coaching to high performance (and firing with dignity) * 16:22 Why forward-looking reviews beat backward-looking ones * 18:08 How home life and work life feed each other * 19:30 Trust in hybrid and remote work environments * 21:40 Vulnerability as a leadership superpower * 23:12 Ovation: How to celebrate wins the right way * 25:20 How to tell the difference between trust and manipulation * 27:30 Why recognition needs to be fast, personal, and peer-driven * 28:48 Celebrating failure to accelerate learning * 29:30 Why human connection matters more in the age of AI * 32:30 The loneliness epidemic and rebuilding social skills * 34:30 Simple trust hacks every leader can use today * 37:20 Where to find Paul Zak and the Six app
https://pauljzak.com/
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws:
About
Connect with Xenium HR:
Website
YouTube
#trust #leadership #workplaceculture #neuroscience #oxytocin #teambuilding #remotework #employeeengagement #hrleadership #transformyourworkplace
Most of us think burnout only hits people who hate their jobs. Psychologist and bestselling author Guy Winch says the opposite is true. In this episode, Guy joins Brandon to unpack the hidden ways work takes over our lives, from the autopilot trap and procrastination to evening rumination and self-neglect. Drawing from his new book, Mind Over Grind: How to Break Free When Work Hijacks Your Life, Guy shares research-backed exercises that any professional can use to reclaim their time, protect their health, and actually be present when they get home. If you have ever told yourself "it's just a busy season," this episode is for you.
Key Timestamps [00:00] Why even mental health experts miss their own burnout
[02:30] The survival mode trap and how autopilot takes over your life
[05:30] The Goldilocks zone: how stress improves performance until it doesn't
[06:30] Why more strokes happen on Mondays and how a simple brain hack can ease the Sunday scaries
[09:15] Reframing procrastination: why treating dreaded tasks as nuisances gets them done faster
[11:45] Challenge state vs. threat state: the mindset shift that changes how you perform under pressure
[14:30] The mind whisperer exercise and how to prep your brain before high-stakes moments
[15:45] Rumination: why replaying work conflicts at home is unpaid overtime that damages your health
[20:30] The "locating your job stress" exercise that turned 90% stress into 10%
[23:30] Role curation: how to take charge of your career growth when your manager won't
[26:00] The red light, green light technique for managing after-hours emails without losing your evening
[30:15] Canaries in the coal mine: identifying your personal early warning signs of self-neglect
[34:30] The empathy effort exercise for switching from work mode to home mode
[36:45] Triple dipping: how to squeeze a month of happiness out of a single weekend away
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Are your meetings indistinguishable from 1940s wartime sabotage tactics? You're not alone. In this episode, Rebecca Hinds, author of Your Best Meeting Ever: Seven Principles for Designing Meetings That Get Things Done, reveals why corporate meetings have become the single most dysfunctional practice in modern organizations—and how to fix them.
Brandon and Rebecca explore a radical idea: what if we treated meetings like products, applying the same design principles that make great products great? From "meeting doomsday" (a complete calendar reset) to Amazon's study hall approach, Rebecca shares actionable strategies that organizations like Slack, Dropbox, and Shopify have used to declare war on meeting bloat.
You'll discover why double-booking has become a toxic badge of honor, how the visibility bias makes us associate presence with productivity, and why crowdsourcing your agenda using the "Dory method" can transform boring monologues into engaging collaboration. Rebecca also tackles the AI paradox—why more meeting bots might be making your meetings worse, not better—and shares the "iron rule" that every leader needs to embrace.
If you've ever walked out of a meeting wondering what you just accomplished (or why you were even there), this episode is your blueprint for change. Don't miss Rebecca's insights on why meetings are the most important—and least optimized—product in your organization.
KEY TIMESTAMPS 00:01 - Introduction and welcome to Rebecca Hinds
00:08 - Brandon introduces Rebecca's book Your Best Meeting Ever: Seven Principles for Designing Meetings That Get Things Done
00:24 - Rebecca explains why meetings are the most important yet least optimized product in organizations
00:58 - The fascinating 1943 OSS sabotage manual story: how wartime meeting sabotage tactics mirror modern corporate meetings
01:33 - Why we use meetings as a "lazy substitute for smart thinking and real work"
03:24 - The toxic "badge of honor" culture: why busyness in meetings signals importance but kills productivity
04:08 - What does it mean to treat meetings like a product? Introduction to the seven product design principles
04:18 - Meeting debt explained: How meetings accumulate technical debt just like software products
05:57 - Meeting Doomsday: The 48-hour calendar cleanse and complete reset strategy
06:13 - Case studies: How Slack, Dropbox, and Shopify implemented organization-wide calendar purges
08:05 - The IKEA effect: Why employee involvement in rebuilding calendars creates lasting change
26:15 - Amazon's study hall approach: How six-page memos and silent reading time revolutionize high-stakes meetings
27:19 - Fighting boring meetings: The Dory method for crowdsourcing agendas
27:37 - User-centric meeting design: Why the organizer and biggest talker are the most satisfied (and why that's a problem)
29:28 - The automation paradox: Why AI and meeting bots might be making bad meetings worse
29:57 - Calm technology: The right way to integrate AI into meetings without letting bots outnumber humans
32:12 - The iron rule of meetings: Treating attendees' time as more valuable than your own
33:39 - Where to find Rebecca's book and connect with her work
34:09 - Closing and final thoughts
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Perfectionism can look like "high standards," but in real life it often turns into burnout, bottlenecks, and teams that overthink everything. In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Jason F. McClennan, author of The Magic of Imperfection, to unpack his three-quarter baked philosophy: a practical way to ship smarter, get better feedback, and unlock innovation without lowering the bar.
Jason breaks down the difference between quarter-baked, half-baked, three-quarter baked, and the illusion of "fully baked." They also dig into how leaders can build cultures where failure is treated as valuable data, how to use feedback without taking it personally, why deadlines must be owned, and how teams can avoid mission drift before they waste months heading in the wrong direction. If your team is stuck polishing the last 10% while everything else suffers, this conversation will help.
Key timestamps * 00:00 Intro and why "imperfection" is a leadership advantage * 01:00 The three-quarter baked idea and why perfectionists struggle with it * 02:40 How perfectionism fuels burnout and steals time from real work * 04:30 Quarter-baked vs half-baked vs three-quarter baked (and why the timing matters) * 06:45 The Buckminster Fuller dome story: reframing failure as a data point * 08:55 How leaders reward learning, not just outcomes * 09:45 The "crit" method: separating ego from work so feedback actually helps * 12:00 The significance meter: calibrating effort so everything is not treated like heart surgery * 14:00 "If you accept the task, you own the deadline" and why that changes everything * 15:30 Momentum surfing: when to push, when to pause, and why grinding backfires * 18:30 Process turning into bureaucracy: how to spot when the system is blocking the outcome * 20:10 End-game thinking and mission drift: the two boats metaphor for team alignment * 22:30 How to bring a team along when perfection is the default culture * 23:40 Becoming a "trim tab": how individual contributors can shift big organizations * 25:20 Bird-dogging vs micromanaging: checking in as a sign of care and performance * 27:15 Communication hierarchy in hybrid work: reducing noise, increasing clarity * 29:00 Building an inner compass: trial, error, and learning without shame * 30:00 Final thoughts and where to find Jason's work
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR: Website https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Brianne Mees, CEO of Tender Loving Empire, shares how a people-first background in psychology and social work shaped the culture of a retail brand built to champion artists, makers, and small businesses. Brianne walks through the company's growth from a scrappy early storefront to seven locations (including airport stores), the toughest leadership decisions during the pandemic, and why mission alignment is the anchor for hiring and culture. Brandon and Brianne also explore "regenerative retail," community investing through Wefunder, and how leaders can build a business that supports local economies without losing sight of sustainability and scale.
Key Timestamps * 00:00 What the show is about + sponsor message from Xenium HR * 01:00 Introducing Brianne Mees and the Tender Loving Empire mission * 03:00 Brianne's unconventional path: psychology, social work, and a people-first approach * 04:40 Why Tender Loving Empire started as a "helping profession" for artists and makers * 05:00 The business today: seven retail locations, hundreds of makers, and a record label * 06:00 The early days: starting before major online platforms existed for creators * 07:00 The turning point: moving locations, hiring the first employee, and shifting from hobby to sustainable business * 08:40 How Brianne's psychology background supported hiring and leadership * 09:20 Scaling a creative retail brand into airports without losing the "feel" * 10:00 Becoming "Portland tour guides" and translating local culture for travelers * 12:00 Leading through the pandemic: scrappiness, resilience, and hard choices * 13:00 The toughest day: furloughing the team while keeping leadership in place * 13:50 Post-pandemic momentum: new airport locations and +$3M in annual revenue * 14:10 How they keep 65 employees aligned: mission fit and kindness * 15:20 The "Empire" name origin and the heart of the brand * 15:40 The impact: celebrating $20M returned to artists and makers * 16:00 Vendor selection today: buying team, data-driven decisions, and mission alignment * 17:00 The ripple effect: vendors who reinvest through sustainability and social impact * 18:00 Geographic focus: Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest * 19:00 Why music remains the heart and soul of the brand * 19:10 Why Tender Loving Empire chose Wefunder and community investing * 20:40 Why VC is not the right fit for a values-based retail brand * 21:20 How their Wefunder raise works: $1.2M goal and a convertible note approach * 23:00 Advice to her 2007 self: confidence, trusting instincts, and staying close to the core * 25:00 Preparing leaders for the next growth phase: transparency and sharing the full vision * 27:20 What keeps Brianne going on tough days: impact, community, and walking into the stores * 28:50 "Regenerative retail" explained: supporting communities vs. extracting from them * 29:50 A first step for leaders: rethink suppliers and where resources flow * 30:30 AI and the creator economy: efficiency benefits vs. IP and compensation concerns * 33:00 Founder advice: grit, tenacity, support systems, and learning along the way * 33:40 Closing: how listeners can support Tender Loving Empire and invest (starting at $100) * 34:00 Podcast disclaimer and wrap-up
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws is joined by Nae Hakala, HR Business Partner at Xenium HR, for a thoughtful and practical conversation about leadership, empathy, and building workplaces that truly support people.
Nae shares her career journey, from managing creative teams early in her career to supporting organizations through complex and often difficult people challenges today. Together, Brandon and Nae explore what it really means to lead with humanity, why belonging and trust are essential business strategies, and how leaders can balance results with empathy in a rapidly changing workplace.
Listeners will hear real-world insights on recruiting with care, navigating hard conversations like reductions in force, the risks of over-automating HR with AI, and why everyday leadership behaviors matter more than big, performative initiatives. This episode is especially relevant for leaders, HR professionals, and nonprofit organizations navigating growth, change, and limited resources.
Key Timestamps * 00:00 – What Transform Your Workplace is all about and why this conversation matters * 02:00 – Nae's early leadership experience managing creative teams and what it taught her * 04:00 – Why getting involved builds community at work and beyond * 05:30 – How retail and hospitality shaped Nae's empathetic approach to HR * 07:00 – Seeing the human behind every HR request, especially in difficult moments * 08:30 – Handling reductions in force with dignity, respect, and compassion * 10:00 – Recruiting at scale without losing the human touch * 11:30 – Where AI helps HR and where it risks doing harm * 13:00 – Lessons from equity-focused work in public education * 16:00 – Why discomfort is part of growth for leaders and organizations * 18:00 – Turning belonging into a practical, everyday business strategy * 20:00 – Moving from talent acquisition into a broader HR business partner role * 22:00 – Studying leadership frameworks and applying them in real time * 23:30 – What today's workforce is asking for that wasn't as visible before * 25:00 – Consulting across different organizations, cultures, and constraints * 27:00 – Supporting nonprofits with limited resources and long-term thinking * 29:00 – Building strong HR foundations that reduce firefighting * 31:00 – Why supporting employees drives results and reduces turnover * 33:00 – Final thoughts on leadership, trust, and showing up for people
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About Brandon: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Compensation is one of the most sensitive and misunderstood topics in the workplace, and one of the most consequential. In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Nicole Blevins to unpack what compensation structure really means, why informal pay decisions stop working as organizations grow, and how leaders can approach pay with more clarity, fairness, and confidence.
Nicole explains how a well-designed compensation structure creates consistency without limiting flexibility, helps leaders navigate difficult pay conversations, and reduces risk tied to pay equity and compliance. The conversation also explores pay transparency laws, common signals that it is time to revisit compensation practices, and why avoiding pay equity analysis often creates bigger problems down the road.
This episode offers practical insight for leaders, HR professionals, and business owners who want to scale responsibly, build trust, and make pay decisions that stand up to scrutiny.
Key Timestamps * 00:00 – Why compensation conversations matter more than ever * 02:00 – What compensation structure actually means in practice * 04:00 – The misconception that structure limits flexibility * 06:00 – What breaks when organizations grow without guardrails * 08:30 – Pay transparency, employee conversations, and trust * 10:30 – The hidden risk of retention raises and pay compression * 12:30 – Why pay equity analysis is no longer optional * 14:30 – Oregon pay equity laws and the importance of proactive action * 16:00 – The real pros and cons of pay transparency laws * 18:00 – Addressing the fear of uncovering pay inequities * 20:30 – How compensation structure changes manager conversations * 23:30 – Why compensation is not a one-time exercise * 25:30 – How often organizations should revisit pay structures * 26:30 – Signals that it is time to review compensation practices * 28:30 – How leaders can approach compensation work without overwhelm
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About Brandon: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws welcomes back Jacob Morgan to explore ideas from his upcoming book, The Eight Laws of Employee Experience: How to Build a Future-Ready Organization, releasing in February 2026.
Drawing from more than 100 interviews with CHROs, Jacob shares why many organizations have lost direction since the pandemic and how well-intended employee experience efforts have sometimes drifted into entitlement, reactivity, and trend-chasing. The conversation unpacks why leaders often operate in "defense mode," how AI is being misunderstood and misused at work, and why employee experience is not an HR initiative but a shared responsibility across the organization.
Listeners will also hear practical frameworks for separating trends from truths, rethinking learning and development, understanding employees beyond survey data, and designing flexibility and culture in more intentional ways. This episode offers clear perspectives for leaders who want to stop reacting and start building the future of work they actually want.
Key Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 02:00 – Why organizations have lost their way post-pandemic 05:30 – Employee experience, entitlement culture, and unintended consequences 08:00 – Why leaders are stuck playing defense instead of offense 11:00 – Trends vs truths and the risks of chasing competitors 13:00 – AI at work and the rise of "work slop" 15:00 – A framework to adapt, pause, or push back on trends 17:00 – Overview of The Eight Laws of Employee Experience 19:00 – Decoding the human signal and knowing employees beyond data 24:30 – Surveys vs real conversations and the importance of human connection 27:00 – Rethinking learning, skill-building, and application on the job 31:00 – The limits of AI and why managers still matter 34:00 – The growth framework for development, readiness, and decision-making 37:00 – Designing flexibility and the idea of a career "command center" 40:00 – Using technology to amplify humanity, not replace it 43:00 – Choosing the future you want to build as an organization 45:00 – Final reflections and where to learn more
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://www.xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with Kate McKinnon, a fractional Chief People Officer with deep experience in high-pressure, high-visibility environments across sports and entertainment. Kate shares what it takes to protect culture when speed and stress are constant, how to address burnout and disengagement without pretending everything is fine, and why "stop, start, continue" feedback loops can help leaders turn frustration into action. They also unpack generational friction, the reality of AI reshaping HR and leadership work, and why developing first-time managers before they step into leadership is one of the most overlooked levers for performance. The conversation closes with practical ways to build belonging without huge budgets, and a reminder that grace and kindness still matter in modern workplaces.
- 0:00 Welcome to Transform Your Workplace + episode overview
- 2:00 Meet Kate McKinnon and why her background matters
- 4:00 Protecting culture in high-pressure, high-performance environments
- 6:00 Burnout, disengagement, and the power of "stop, start, continue"
- 9:00 Generational friction at work and how leaders can bridge the gap
- 11:00 Gen AI, new grads, and the future of work
- 13:00 Making work more human in an AI-driven workplace
- 15:00 Why great performers struggle as new managers
- 17:00 The future of learning and development: microlearning vs in-person
- 20:00 Belonging without big budgets: practical, low-cost ideas
- 22:00 Leadership lessons from crisis, M&A, and COVID
- 25:00 What sports culture teaches us about performance and growth
- 27:00 Using data, feedback, and scorecards to drive engagement
- 29:00 Bridging the gap from college (and military) to career
- 32:00 What the next decade of culture and leadership will demand
- 34:00 Final thoughts: grace, kindness, and what leaders should remember
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] Learning & Development Programs [https://xeniumhr.com/learning-development] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR]
Van Lai-DuMone discusses her book on transforming curiosity into action through small steps. She shares her mother's refugee story of building the nail industry, emphasizes reframing limiting beliefs, and advocates for workplace cultures that welcome all ideas. The framework includes pausing, asking "what if" questions, and embracing creative chaos.
TAKEAWAYS
- Curiosity requires pausing to ask "what if" and "how might we" questions.
- Small steps overcome fear and build confidence toward big goals.
- Welcome all ideas without judgment to foster innovation and trust.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Sarah Escobar and Corinne Murray discuss their book "Work Then Place," arguing that return-to-office mandates alone won't drive transformation. They emphasize understanding how work actually happens before designing physical, digital, and experiential environments. The authors advocate for empirical approaches, building trust through small changes, and creating adaptive organizations prepared for AI's fourth industrial revolution.
TAKEAWAYS
- Work must inform place - analyze workflows first, then design environments to support them
- Leaders must actively participate in change themselves, not just orchestrate it from above
- Address foundational friction like burnout and connectivity before pursuing innovation
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Martha Lawrence discusses her biography of Ken Blanchard, author of The One Minute Manager. She explores his journey from rejected academic to leadership legend, emphasizing his authentic servant leadership philosophy of "catch people doing things right" and how he built a values-driven company focused on people over profit.
TAKEAWAYS * Ken Blanchard co-authored The One Minute Manager in 1982 after being told he couldn't write, creating one of the world's bestselling business books with its accessible, story-based approach * He founded his leadership company on four core values—ethical behavior, relationships, success, and learning—revolutionary for the hierarchical 1970s business culture * His lasting legacy centers on servant leadership and positive reinforcement: catching people doing things right rather than focusing on mistakes
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Lisa Skinner discusses Alzheimer's care beyond memory loss, emphasizing the importance of "joining their reality" rather than correcting false beliefs. She challenges myths about late-stage awareness and stresses early planning, caregiver self-care, and workplace support as cases are projected to triple by 2050.
TAKEAWAYS
- Validate emotions and join their reality instead of correcting false beliefs to prevent distress.
- Establish legal documents and discuss end-of-life wishes early while loved ones can participate.
- Caregivers must prioritize self-care through support groups and breaks to maintain their health.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Nicole Blevins discusses HR burnout with Brandon Laws, describing HR professionals as the "emotional sponge" of organizations. She explains how HR workers struggle to recognize burnout in themselves despite helping others with similar issues, particularly solo practitioners lacking peer support. Nicole shares practical strategies including setting boundaries, scheduling breaks, using music for decompression, and building professional networks. The key message: HR professionals must proactively prioritize their own mental health and apply the same self-care they advocate for employees.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with executive coach and author Susanne Madsen to explore what it truly means to do the inner work. Drawing from her career in high pressure corporate environments, Susanne shares how chronic stress, misalignment with personal values, and ignored emotions can quietly erode well being and performance.
The conversation highlights practical tools leaders can use to regulate their nervous system, challenge limiting beliefs, create space for reflection, and rebuild their energy through simple daily routines. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for sustainable ways to show up better for yourself and your team, this episode offers grounded and actionable insights.
Key Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and episode introduction 01:00 Why inner work matters in modern leadership 02:30 Susanne's experience with chronic stress and early warning signs 04:00 Ignoring emotional signals and wearing stress as a badge of honor 05:30 The moment she considered a sabbatical and how it shifted everything 06:30 Self sabotaging patterns and the belief that stress is "part of the game" 07:30 Near burnout and the internal voice that pushed her to take a break 08:00 How coaching opened the door to deeper awareness 09:00 Uncovering limiting beliefs and the process of coaching yourself first 10:30 What clients bring to coaching and how overwhelm shows up 11:30 Understanding values alignment and how people intuitively sense misalignment 13:00 The role of boundaries in preventing overload 14:00 The habit of saying yes and immediate regret 15:00 Why beliefs carry so much power in behavior and decision making 17:00 How to pause and sit with uncomfortable emotions 18:30 Techniques to acknowledge feelings so they dissipate 19:30 Why self compassion is difficult for many people 20:30 Finding your happy place as a foundation for inner work 22:30 How nature and silence support emotional processing 24:00 Identifying the tasks or relationships that drain energy 25:30 Rebuilding energy with small, meaningful activities 27:00 Introducing breathwork as a tool for emotional regulation 28:30 Coherent breathing and why it changes your physiology 30:00 Daily practice and how breath sets the stage for clarity 31:00 Meditation for training the mind and interrupting negative thought cycles 33:00 Using imagery and awareness to return to center 34:00 Combating negativity bias with gratitude 35:30 Noticing the small wins and everyday "miracles" 37:00 Rewiring the brain and shifting perspective over time 38:00 Encouragement to seek external help when needed 39:00 Final reflections and Susanne's closing advice 40:00 Ways to connect with Susanne and learn more about her work
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Lawrence "Larry" Armstrong—architect, artist, and author of Layered Leadership: Drive Double-Digit Growth and Dominate Your Competition with Creative Strategies and Execution. Larry shares how his unique blend of art and business has shaped his multidimensional approach to leadership.
Through vivid metaphors and real-world examples, Larry breaks down his "layered" model of leadership, emphasizing balance, vision, and execution. He explains why curiosity and creativity are essential traits for leaders, how developing a strong "number two" can multiply impact, and why personal wellness and financial health form the foundation for sustainable success.
Listeners will come away with practical ideas for leading more intentionally, staying curious, and helping teams grow in both structure and creativity.
Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Transform Your Workplace and introduction to Xenium HR's Custom HR Support 01:00 – Introducing Lawrence Armstrong and the concept of "layered leadership" 03:00 – How the idea of layers connects art, architecture, and leadership 06:00 – The importance of building a foundation before chasing growth 09:00 – The "rocket" metaphor for balanced leadership 10:00 – Leonardo da Vinci and the power of whole-brain leadership 12:00 – Why curiosity and discomfort fuel long-term growth 13:00 – Delegate vs. abdicate: developing fluency in all aspects of your business 14:00 – The Tinker Toy exercise for visualizing leadership growth 16:00 – The power of developing a strong "number two" 18:00 – Books that shaped Larry's leadership approach 23:00 – Why personal health and financial wellness matter for leaders 25:00 – The "fleet of ships" metaphor and agile leadership at scale 27:00 – Building innovation into every layer of the organization 30:00 – How being an artist makes Larry a better CEO 32:00 – Leadership legacy and lessons from Layered Leadership
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: https://www.xeniumhr.com/
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws welcomes back Victoria Dew, founder and CEO of Dewpoint Communications, to unpack findings from her latest research report, Connecting the Frontline: Current Trends, Challenges, and Strategic Opportunities in Workforce Communication.
Victoria shares what her team discovered after interviewing communication leaders across 18 industries — from manufacturing and healthcare to construction and education — about the urgent need to better connect with deskless and frontline workers. Together, Brandon and Victoria discuss how to bridge the gap between corporate and hourly employees, why 72% of frontline workers don't understand company strategy, and how leaders can close that gap through listening, technology, and culture change.
You'll also hear insights on AI's role in communication, manager overload, the importance of in-person connection, and how organizations can transform frontline workers into powerful brand ambassadors.
If you lead people, especially those on the frontlines, this conversation will help you reimagine how communication, connection, and culture can drive performance across your entire organization.
Key Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction — Purpose of the show and Xenium's Custom HR solutions [01:00] Meet Victoria Dew — Founder and CEO of Dewpoint Communications [02:00] Inside the new report Connecting the Frontline and its goals [04:00] Why frontline workers are often "out of sight, out of mind" [05:00] The shifting meaning of work for frontline employees [07:00] Understanding the "Ferrari vs. horse and carriage" gap between workers [09:00] Why 72% of frontline employees don't understand company strategy [11:00] Creating context and meaning through internal communication [12:00] Supporting overburdened managers as key communication channels [14:00] Moving beyond one-way communication to real feedback loops [16:00] Listening circles, pulse checks, and two-way engagement [18:00] Bridging the tech divide for frontline communication [19:00] AI as a game changer for communication teams [22:00] Why face-to-face connection still matters [23:00] Empowering frontline workers as brand ambassadors [25:00] Shifting the digital divide from "too hard" to "must have" [27:00] Culture change and adoption challenges in communication tech [29:00] How data drives — but doesn't replace — emotional change [30:00] The evolving role of communication professionals in the AI era [31:00] Practical steps leaders can take to connect with the frontline [33:00] Where to find and download Victoria's full report
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Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX and author of Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart. Together, they unpack what it really means to lead with humanity in today's workplace.
Claude shares stories from her own journey—from leaving a two-decade advertising career to building one of the most human-centered cultures in business—and offers practical wisdom for leaders who want to foster authenticity, connection, and belonging on their teams.
Listeners will come away inspired to lead with heart, embrace imperfection, and create workplaces where people can show up as their true selves.
Key Timestamps
[00:02:00] Claude's bold career pivot and how she discovered her calling as Chief Heart Officer [00:04:30] The truth about workplace conformity and why authentic leadership is a competitive advantage [00:06:00] A pivotal moment at VaynerX that showed the power of inclusion and belonging [00:08:00] How leaders can help their people see their potential by moving ego to the back seat [00:11:00] The link between authenticity, trust, and happiness at work [00:13:00] The hidden cost when employees feel the need to "shrink" instead of being themselves [00:15:00] Claude's concept of emotional optimism and how optimism, bravery, and efficiency fuel resilient teams [00:19:00] Practical tools to stop workplace anxiety and get grounded in the moment [00:24:00] The difference between fitting in and belonging—and how leaders can help people claim their space [00:27:00] Why humility is the foundation of effective leadership [00:30:00] How imperfection and vulnerability build real trust [00:33:00] Collective vulnerability as a cultural agreement for authenticity [00:36:00] The hardest part of heart-centered leadership and how Claude continues to grow in clarity [00:38:00] The biggest mindset shift in leadership—seeing through the lies we tell ourselves [00:40:00] Rediscovering emotional intelligence as a leadership superpower [00:41:00] The real ROI of bringing humanity into the workplace
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience.
Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
HR consultant Nicole Blevins discusses building effective partnerships between internal HR teams and external consultants. She emphasizes starting with clear role definitions, addressing concerns through curiosity rather than defensiveness, and positioning consultants as supportive extensions rather than threats. Success requires open communication, regular check-ins, and customizing support based on each team's unique needs.
TAKEAWAYS
- Start relationships with clear expectations by mapping roles and responsibilities to avoid conflicts over unmet assumptions
- Address resistance through curiosity—ask questions to understand concerns rather than listing credentials defensively
- Customize support based on team needs, whether handling administrative tasks to free up strategic work or providing strategic guidance to developing teams
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Danielle Dinkelman shares her journey into corporate wellness, shaped by personal injury and witnessing her husband's burnout. She emphasizes that effective wellness programs require shared responsibility between employers and employees, focusing on five key areas: rest, fuel, play, connection, and purpose. Success depends on authentic leadership commitment rather than incentive-driven programs.
TAKEAWAYS
- Rest is productive, not a distraction — leaders must recognize that sustainable performance requires intentional recovery time.
- High-impact wellness coaching achieves 20-40% utilization — far exceeding traditional programs when integrated authentically into company culture.
- Burnout prevention requires policy alignment — review employee handbooks through the lens of rest, fuel, play, connection, and purpose.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Construction veteran and certified polyvagal professional Josh Durham returns to explore "embodied safety" — a whole-person approach that connects physical, psychological, and physiological safety. He and host Brandon Laws discuss why practices beat policies, how simple sensory cues (calm voice, clear signage, clean spaces, brief breathing drills) help teams operate in a focused "play zone," and practical steps leaders can use to build respectful worksites that improve retention, decision-making, and outcomes.
Key Timestamps
- 00:00 — Welcome & sponsor; why embodied safety matters beyond "hard hats and harnesses."
- 02:20 — Defining embodied safety: physical, psychological, and physiological components.
- 03:50 — Industry context: advances in physical safety, rise of mental health focus, and the "leading-edge" physiological piece.
- 04:55 — A pivotal harassment incident: why leaders must assume unseen risks exist on every site.
- 06:40 — The "hidden staircase": universal human drivers—survive, belong, become.
- 08:10 — Leading individuals at scale: meeting core needs and empowering "ambassadors."
- 10:05 — Practices vs. policies: proactive habits that build trust, health, and productivity.
- 12:00 — Implementing respectful worksite programs (Green Dot/Rise Up), aligning physical safety, and physiological cues.
- 13:10 — Start with a real "why," expect resistance, recruit influential change ambassadors, iterate openly.
- 15:30 — Overcoming "HR fluff" perceptions; tying respectful work to productivity, quality, safety, profits, and retention.
- 17:10 — The change curve: guiding people from shock/denial to curiosity and commitment.
- 19:30 — Polyvagal basics: the vagus nerve as the body's safety signal network.
- 21:20 — From fight/flight/freeze to the "play zone": operating in an activated-but-safe state.
- 24:40 — Practical cues leaders can use: calm tone, visual grounding, clean/organized spaces, belonging at first contact.
- 26:10 — Breathing as the controllable lever of the autonomic nervous system; simple stretches and breath work.
- 30:10 — Retention, productivity, legal and injury risks when safety isn't embodied.
- 32:30 — Respect as default: people bring invisible burdens through the gate every day.
- 35:00 — First steps: clarify your "why," name bad habits, identify change ambassadors, and frame a simple plan.
- 36:30 — Resources and contact; closing.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Leadership coach Nir Megnazi discusses leading calmly through uncertainty in this Transform Your Workplace podcast. He explains how overwhelming change causes leaders to freeze, micromanage, or become emotionally reactive. Megnazi emphasizes that effective leadership requires emotional awareness—identifying and naming feelings before acting on them. He argues leaders must shift from prioritizing results to enabling team success by understanding individual strengths and creating environments where people can reach their potential, ultimately achieving exponentially better outcomes.
TAKEAWAYS
- Emotional awareness precedes calm leadership: Leaders must identify and name their emotions in real-time to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively to triggers and stress.
- Trust requires competence plus care: People choose to follow leaders who demonstrate professional expertise and genuine concern for their team members' wellbeing and growth.
- Enable results, don't just demand them: A leader's job is growing teams that deliver outcomes by tapping into each person's unique strengths, not personally achieving every result.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders."
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Melissa Swift discusses why modern work is dangerous, boring, and frustrating—comparing today's tech overload to the early industrial revolution. She advocates for human-centric workplace design, reducing work intensification, and treating employee feedback as valuable data rather than complaints.
TAKEAWAYS
- Work intensification is real: Employees are doing more tasks per hour with denser workloads, like carrying bricks instead of sponges
- Technology waste is massive: 42-43% of time with workplace tech is wasted; half of employees want old systems back
- Focus on retention over recruiting: HR spends 3x more effort on recruitment than developing current talent
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Brandon sits down with Mita Mallick, author of The Devil Emails at Midnight, to examine how well-intentioned managers slip into bad-boss behaviors and what leaders can do to course-correct. They discuss stress and personal crises as root causes, the outsized impact managers have on employee mental health, why one-on-ones are a retention tool, and how to prevent cultures of constant urgency. You’ll also hear practical tips for avoiding micromanagement, honoring names, reducing meeting bloat, and inviting real coaching from your team.
Key Timestamps
- 00:00 — Welcome, show purpose, and sponsor message
- 01:00 — Why “bad bosses” are made by circumstances, not born
- 03:00 — Three common triggers: market shocks, trickle-down behavior, personal “earthquakes”
- 06:30 — Managers’ influence on employee mental health
- 07:50 — Time signals care: one-on-ones as a retention tool
- 11:30 — Freeing the calendar: canceling meetings, async options, delegating attendance
- 13:30 — Inclusion in practice: the importance of saying names correctly
- 16:00 — Spotting disengagement and checking in with care
- 18:10 — Addressing the “napper”: direct conversations and recommitment
- 21:00 — Accountability for disengagement and leadership courage
- 22:15 — Escaping micromanagement: show what “done” looks like
- 25:10 — If everything is urgent, nothing is: reducing fire-drill culture
- 27:30 — The overly kind yet incompetent boss vs toxic positivity
- 30:30 — Gossip erodes trust and confidentiality
- 33:00 — Rethinking loyalty and stopping talent hoarding
- 35:00 — AI, time savings, and doubling down on human leadership
- 36:30 — Weekly reflection, reading the room, and asking for coaching
- 38:30 — Where to find Mita and her book
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/]
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws]
Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Transform Your Workplace host Brandon Laws and HR business partner Nicole Blevins discuss a viral workplace scandal involving a CEO and Chief People Officer caught on a kiss cam, allegedly having an affair. They explore the HR implications including power dynamics, conflicts of interest, and challenges employees face reporting inappropriate leadership behavior. Key topics include the importance of third-party investigators for executive issues, the value of external HR consultants for objectivity, and rebuilding psychological safety in toxic cultures. Nicole's main takeaway: "If you see something, say something" - employees must find courage to speak up when witnessing behavior that compromises workplace integrity.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Wes Adams reveals how meaning drives workplace performance through three core elements: community, contribution, and challenge. Leaders act as gardeners, creating conditions for meaning to flourish rather than managing outcomes directly. Simple practices like positive feedback and asking about employees' lives can transform engagement and cut burnout in half.
TAKEAWAYS
- Meaning drives performance - Research shows that meaningful work is the upstream factor that creates job satisfaction, productivity, and even impacts stock prices.
- Leaders control 50% of meaning - Through the "three C's" (community, contribution, challenge), managers can intentionally foster meaning rather than leaving it to chance.
- Small actions have big impact - Simple practices like saying thank you once a week or asking about someone's weekend can cut disengagement and burnout in half.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Bryan Power, Chief People Officer at Nextdoor, discusses how AI is transforming workplace leadership, requiring CPOs to become more strategic and creative. He shares insights on scaling AI adoption, maintaining founder mentality, and building authentic connections while navigating the rapid pace of technological disruption.
TAKEAWAYS
- AI adoption requires treating it like a teammate, not a tool, with dedicated time for learning and experimentation.
- Chief People Officers must be involved in AI implementation decisions as the line between hiring people versus tools blurs.
- Companies should invest in early-career talent who are "AI natives" and bring fresh perspectives to innovation.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Barry Wolfe argues that workplace psychology tools like personality tests and assessments lack scientific validity and don't predict job performance. Instead of relying on psychological profiles, leaders should focus on "value-centric actions" - clearly defining what results employees need to deliver to create business value and advance their careers.
TAKEAWAYS
- Psychology tools are unreliable - Personality tests, competency models, and even Maslow's hierarchy lack empirical support, with IQ predicting job performance at only 0.03 correlation
- Employees lack clarity - 55% of workers don't know what's expected of them, and most can't answer "What do I need to do to get a raise?"
- Focus on value creation - Replace psychological assessments with clear definitions of business value and specific deliverables that help employees understand how to succeed
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Jenny Eversole, CEO of StyleSpace, helps professionals develop confident workplace style in the post-COVID era. As dress codes become more flexible, her company bridges the gap between personal expression and professional appearance, offering individual styling and team training to help people represent their leadership potential through visual presentation.
TAKEAWAYS
- Workplace dress has dramatically shifted - The last five years have seen more change than the previous hundred years, with many Fortune 500 companies eliminating formal dress codes entirely, leaving employees uncertain about appropriate workplace attire.
- Style directly impacts career success - 96% of people believe personal style affects their workplace success and leadership growth, yet only 15% feel they're properly representing their leadership role through their dress choices.
- Personal branding through style is crucial - In an era of AI-generated content and remote work, visual presentation has become the most powerful nonverbal tool for standing out, building trust, and creating memorable first impressions within seven seconds of meeting someone.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Licensed clinical social worker Sarah Harris discusses her transition from individual therapy to workplace leadership consulting. She emphasizes simple, cost-free strategies for creating psychologically safe workplaces, including modeling healthy behaviors like eating lunch away from desks, active listening, and understanding how nervous systems communicate to build trust and retention.
TAKEAWAYS
- Model wellness behaviors - Leaders should eat lunch away from their desk to demonstrate work-life boundaries
- Practice active listening - Give full attention during conversations by eliminating distractions and using polyvagal theory principles
- Create psychological safety - Use vulnerability and feedback loops to make employees feel heard and valued
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Brandon Laws and Lacey Partipilo explore how to allocate a $100,000 HR budget for a 50-person company. They compare their spending priorities, with both emphasizing outsourced HR services, leadership development, and employee recognition programs.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Jayma DuChene discusses her podcast "What's in a Name" and the importance of names in workplace culture. She explores how mispronunciation affects belonging, shares insights from 90+ episodes interviewing people about their names' meanings, and provides practical advice for leaders to create more inclusive environments through intentional name pronunciation and understanding.
TAKEAWAYS
- Names impact workplace belonging - Correct pronunciation and understanding name meanings demonstrates emotional intelligence and creates authentic workplace connections
- Simple solutions for name challenges - Leaders should humbly ask for correct pronunciation and use icebreakers involving name meanings to build team rapport
- Personal transformation through adversity - Jayma turned her negative experience with name mispronunciation into a passion for helping others appreciate the power and meaning behind names
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Bill Shander discusses "stakeholder whispering" - the practice of uncovering what people truly need rather than simply executing their requests. Drawing parallels to horse whispering, he emphasizes using questions, empathy, and slow thinking to guide stakeholders toward identifying their real problems, ultimately creating better outcomes for everyone involved.
TAKEAWAYS
- Question before executing - Don't just say "yes" to requests; use the Socratic method to help stakeholders discover their actual underlying needs through thoughtful questioning
- Combat fast thinking - Recognize that people (including ourselves) operate on instinct and assumptions; deliberately slow down to engage in critical thinking and investigation
- Create experiences, not just deliverables - Everything you do creates an experience for someone; focus on solving real problems rather than delivering feature lists or surface-level requests
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
Cynthia Kane's "The Pause Principle" teaches how to pause and regain control in challenging situations. Using the SOFTEN method (Sensation, Own discomfort, Focus on present, Take a breath, Eyes on other person, Need to say), people can shift from reactive responses to intentional communication by calming their nervous system first.
TAKEAWAYS
- Notice body sensations first - Pay attention to physical discomfort signals like racing heart or tense jaw to recognize when you need to pause
- Use the SOFTEN method - Simple practices like focusing on breath or saying your name help shift from fight-or-flight to calm response
- Practice daily in low-stakes moments - Build the pause muscle through regular practice so it's available during high-pressure conversations
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
In this conversation, Josh Bersin discusses the transformative impact of AI on learning and development (L&D) within organizations. He emphasizes the shift from traditional static courses to dynamic, personalized learning experiences facilitated by AI technologies. The discussion highlights the advantages for small businesses in leveraging AI tools for content creation and training, the challenges faced by traditional learning management systems, and the importance of ensuring content credibility in an AI-driven landscape. Bersin also provides insights for HR leaders on how to effectively adopt these new technologies and decentralize L&D efforts to better meet the needs of employees.
- Small businesses can leverage AI for cost-effective training solutions.
- Personalized learning experiences are the future of L&D.
- Traditional LMS platforms are struggling to adapt to AI advancements.
- Decentralization of L&D will lead to more relevant training.
- Content credibility is crucial in AI-generated learning materials.
- HR leaders should embrace AI tools without lengthy implementation plans.
- AI can quickly transform existing content into new learning formats.
- Cultural factors within organizations significantly influence success.
- AI is revolutionizing learning and development.
- Static courses are becoming obsolete in favor of dynamic content.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
In this conversation, Michael Wozniak discusses his book 'Employee Drift' and explores the concept that employees do not quit jobs but drift away due to poor leadership. He shares insights from his experience in the NBA, emphasizing the importance of trust, clarity, and support in leadership. Wozniak reflects on his own leadership journey, the significance of understanding employee needs, and the necessity of addressing root causes of workplace issues rather than just symptoms. He advocates for a culture of accountability and empowerment, highlighting the role of authentic leadership in transforming workplace culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- People don't quit jobs, they drift from poor leadership.
- Most leadership is very transactional, leading to employee drift.
- Trust is essential for effective leadership.
- Leaders must focus on building relationships, not just managing tasks.
- Support, clarity, and trust are key components of effective leadership.
- Identifying root causes of workplace issues is crucial for improvement.
- Creating a culture of accountability fosters growth and development.
- Empowering employees leads to better performance and satisfaction.
- Authentic leadership builds trust and connection with employees.
- Clarity in roles and expectations prevents burnout and drift.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
HR expert Nicole Blevins discusses navigating layoffs with humanity and professionalism. She emphasizes exploring alternatives first, creating fair selection processes, having managers lead termination conversations rather than HR, providing resources and support to departing employees, and maintaining transparency with remaining staff to address survivor guilt and preserve organizational culture.
Key Timestamps * [00:45] - Nicole explains HR's role in layoffs and the importance of handling them with compliance and empathy * [02:54] - Discussion of who initiates layoff conversations and exploring alternatives first * [05:25] - How to address employee rumors and maintain transparency during budget challenges * [08:17] - Nicole's coaching process for clients facing layoffs, including fair selection criteria * [10:28] - Best practices for layoff conversations - why managers should lead, not HR consultants * [13:35] - Approaches for conducting terminations with humanity and respect * [15:33] - Providing resources and support tools beyond the final day * [18:36] - Managing cultural impact and survivor guilt among remaining employees * [22:56] - Final advice for organizations facing their first layoff situation A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
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HR expert Marcia Homer discusses the workplace dynamics between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees. She explains how different generational upbringings create workplace conflicts - Gen X grew up as independent "latchkey kids" while Gen Z is the most connected and supervised generation ever. Homer emphasizes that Gen Z isn't lazy but wants to work differently, seeking purpose, flexibility, and growth over grinding. The solution lies in improved communication, patience, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations.
TAKEAWAYS * Different upbringings create conflict: Gen X developed independence while Gen Z grew up highly supervised and digitally connected * Gen Z seeks purpose over burnout: They want meaningful work, flexibility, and regular feedback rather than grinding for status * Communication is key: Success requires patience, clear expectations, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations
[00:38] - How Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z grew up differently
[01:06] - Gen X as "latchkey kids" - independent, unsupervised upbringing
[02:30] - Gen X values: resilience, "suck it up" mentality, separating work and personal life
[04:26] - Gen Z as most connected and supervised generation ever
[04:56] - Impact of major events on Gen Z: 9/11, 2008 crisis, climate change, COVID
[06:28] - Workplace conflicts between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees
[10:45] - COVID's impact on workplace dynamics and remote work shift
[11:22] - Debunking the "Gen Z is lazy" myth
[11:53] - What Gen Z actually wants: purpose, flexibility, growth over grind
[13:26] - The positive shift Gen Z brings to workplace conversations
[14:44] - Advice for Gen Z: slow down and learn the rules of the game first
[16:55] - Gen Z prefers real-time feedback over annual performance reviews
[19:04] - Gen Z tendency to overshare personal information at work
[21:05] - Gen Z's digital tool proficiency and time management skills
[22:57] - Career development conversations with Gen Z
[25:28] - The core solution: better communication and psychological safety
[27:24] - Approaching conflicts with "non-judgmental curiosity"
[29:11] - Communicating across multiple generations as a senior leader
[31:56] - Key motivators for Gen Z retention and engagement
[34:22] - Skills leaders need for 2030 workforce dominated by Gen Z
[36:34] - Resources: "Play the Game" book and GenZWorkplaceFixes.com
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
What happens when a brilliant engineer can’t explain their ideas to decision-makers? In this episode, Neil Thompson, founder of Teach the Geek, joins Brandon Laws to share his journey from anxious, sweat-drenched presentations to confidently speaking in front of executives—and how he now helps other technical professionals do the same. If you manage or work alongside STEM professionals, this episode offers a practical look at the communication gaps that stall careers and what leaders can do about it. From filler words to presentation strategy, Neil breaks down how better speaking skills unlock both business outcomes and career growth.
Key Timestamps Key Timestamp Topics [00:00] Welcome & episode overview [01:00] Meet Neil Thompson and the origins of Teach the Geek [02:00] Early career missteps with technical presentations [04:30] The wake-up call: poor communication = missed opportunities [05:30] Joining Toastmasters and practicing communication [07:00] The real challenge: talking to non-technical audiences [08:30] Why jargon blocks understanding [10:00] Body language, nerves, and delivery mistakes [11:00] The career value of strong communication [12:00] Visualization as a tool to reduce nerves [13:00] Why storytelling works—even for technical topics [14:30] Do organizations train STEM pros in communication? [16:00] The missed opportunity in L&D [17:00] Real-world example from a technical conference [18:00] Reps and practice: building the communication muscle [19:00] How Neil structures technical speaking training [20:00] Designing with outcomes and call-to-action in mind [21:00] Feedback loops and real-time improvement [22:00] Tracking filler words and reducing them over time [23:30] Self-advocacy and career advancement through better speaking [24:30] Who reaches out: HR or individuals? [25:00] Success stories and guest anecdotes [26:00] Why silence is better than filler [27:00] Using feedback surveys to measure speaking progress [28:00] Advice to HR and leaders on training technical teams [29:00] Where to learn more about Teach the Geek
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. 👉 Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR
- Website
- YouTube
John Rossman, former Amazon executive and author of "The Amazon Way," discusses Amazon's 14 leadership principles and their application to modern businesses. As a fifth-generation Oregonian who worked at Amazon from 2002-2005, Rossman witnessed the company's transformation into a platform company. He emphasizes customer obsession, the importance of simplifying work processes, and ownership mentality. His latest book "Big Bet Leadership" provides a playbook for organizational transformation in the hyper-digital era, focusing on systematic experimentation and long-term thinking.
TAKEAWAYS * Customer Obsession Beyond Transactions: Practice both tactical customer service and strategic curiosity about customers' broader needs upstream and downstream of current interactions. * Simplify Before Innovating: Focus on zero-based redesign and radical simplification of work processes before adding new technologies - most companies have calcified layers that need unwinding. * Ownership Mindset for Long-term Success: Think enterprise-wide beyond your role, never say "that's not my job," and refuse to sacrifice long-term value for short-term results.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
In this conversation, Brandon Laws sits down with Fritz Brumder, serial entrepreneur and co-founder of WiseOx, to explore how “AI mascots” are helping organizations move from one-off ChatGPT experiments to secure, organization-wide automation. Fritz explains why legacy chatbots struggled, how large-language-model (LLM) technology unlocks far richer support and HR workflows, and what an 80/20 security model looks like in practice. They also discuss practical first-steps for leaders, new skills employees should cultivate, and a realistic one-, two-, and ten-year outlook on AI’s impact on talent and trust at work. If you’re AI-curious but cautious about compliance, this episode offers a roadmap—and a few reality checks—to get started.
Key Timestamps Time stamp Topic 00:00 Welcome, show purpose, and Xenium HR sponsor read 02:00 Introducing Fritz Brumder and the concept of “AI mascots” at WiseOx 03:30 Fritz’s startup journey, timing the leap from video tech to GenAI 07:00 Chatbots 1.0 vs. LLM-powered assistants—what changed and why it matters 11:00 Training an AI on SOPs, policies, and compliance docs: HR use cases 15:00 Internal roll-outs first, then customer-facing support and sales assistants 18:00 Beyond chat: email, voice, multilingual interaction, and task automation 22:00 Data privacy & the 80/20 security model (private vector store + LLM) 26:00 Pricing, five-step implementation path, and change-management tips 30:00 Future-proof skills: clear problem-solving, prompt design, creative thinking 33:00 1-, 2-, and 10-year AI forecasts—why pace feels fast but adoption is a decade-long shift 34:30 Workflow examples: AI-driven applicant screening and onboarding 35:30 How to connect with Fritz and learn more about WiseOx; episode close A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Learn more ›
Connect with Brandon Laws * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon * About: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws
Connect with Xenium HR * Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR * Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Matt Wolfe discusses how the StoryBrand framework transforms both marketing and workplace culture by positioning businesses as guides rather than heroes in their customers' stories. This approach creates shared identity and purpose among teams while improving external messaging, leading to better alignment between departments and stronger organizational culture overall.
TAKEAWAYS * StoryBrand positions businesses as guides helping customer heroes solve problems, not as heroes themselves. * Shared brand stories create internal alignment and unified team identity beyond just marketing benefits. * Implementation requires team conversations, consistent application across touchpoints, and regular reinforcement.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
Catherine Thorpe, CEO of Nurse Next Door and author of "Bold Kindness," discusses her revolutionary leadership approach that eliminates traditional hierarchies and empowers employees to be self-led. She defines bold kindness as caring deeply about people's development while understanding them as individuals to provide feedback they can hear and act upon. Thorpe eliminated performance reviews and managers eight years ago, instead focusing on real-time feedback and quarterly self-led check-ins. Her philosophy centers on treating employees as adults who know their jobs and can make decisions autonomously, creating a workplace where people can bring their whole selves to work and find genuine connection and purpose.
TAKEAWAYS * Self-Led Model: Organizations can eliminate traditional management layers by treating employees as self-directed adults who understand their responsibilities, know when to ask for help, and can make autonomous decisions without constant oversight. * Bold Kindness Definition: Effective leadership combines caring deeply about someone's development with understanding them personally, enabling leaders to give feedback in ways people can hear, accept, and act upon for their growth. * Vulnerability Creates Connection: Leaders who show vulnerability and allow employees to bring their whole selves to work create deeper organizational connections and higher engagement than traditional professional boundaries.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
This HR "Mythbusters" episode features Nicole Blevins quizzing Brandon Laws on common HR misconceptions. They explore myths about HR's role, documentation requirements, overtime exemptions, layoff procedures, performance management, and employee rights. Key takeaways include: HR serves both company and employee interests, culture is everyone's responsibility, and regular feedback beats annual reviews alone.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
John R. Miles, former Fortune 50 executive and military officer, discusses his transformation from corporate success to purposeful living. After experiencing burnout and personal trauma, he developed the "Passion Struck" framework to help people move from lives they "should" be living to lives they "could" be living. He emphasizes that workplace disengagement stems from a "mattering crisis" rather than just workload issues, advocating for intentional leadership focused on helping employees feel valued and significant.
TAKEAWAYS
- The Real Problem: Workplace burnout is less about workload and more about "worth load" - people feeling invisible and that their work doesn't matter to others.
- Mosquito Audit: Identify and address the three types of "mosquitoes" in your life - invisible suffocators (negative people), bloodsuckers (boundary destroyers), and energy drains that prevent intentional living.
- Gardener Leadership: Leaders should be "eyes on, hands off" - providing clear vision and goals while empowering employees to find creative solutions without micromanagement.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
HR consultant Daniel Strode discusses AI's impact on human resources, highlighting recruitment and data analytics as prime areas for adoption. He introduces his "5P model" emphasizing policy/governance and people/culture transformation as critical success factors. While AI adoption remains slow—only 25% of adults regularly use tools like ChatGPT—organizations are unknowingly integrating AI through software updates. Strode advocates for proper governance policies ahead of regulations like the EU AI Act, positioning AI as a collaborative tool enhancing rather than replacing human capabilities.
TAKEAWAYS
- 5P Framework: Success requires addressing process enhancement, personalization, predictive insights, policy/governance, and people/culture transformation
- Governance First: Establish AI ethics policies, bias auditing, and compliance training before implementation, especially with upcoming EU AI Act regulations
- Human-AI Partnership: Use AI for manual processes while focusing HR professionals on strategic work like employee experience and change management
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
Is it possible to make work actually fun without losing sight of business goals? Steve Carse thinks so—and he has the story to prove it. In this energizing episode, Brandon Laws sits down with the CEO of King of Pops to talk about how one humble ice pop cart evolved into a culture-first brand and what fun truly means in the workplace. They discuss how storytelling, ownership, gamification, and pride all contribute to a work culture that people love being part of. Whether you're a leader looking to revitalize your team or an employee wondering if fun has a place at work, this episode will shift your perspective and spark ideas.
🕒 Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: The power of combining HR + payroll with Xenium HR 01:00 – Meet Steve Carse and the origin of King of Pops 03:00 – Getting laid off and finding a new career path 06:00 – Starting a business with $7,000 and a dream 08:00 – Why fun at work starts with storytelling and vision 11:00 – The value of writing a personal or business narrative 13:00 – How to find joy even in the difficult, early stages of a business 15:00 – On career FOMO and staying present in the “good old days” 17:00 – Work-life blend, parenting, and evolving productivity 20:00 – Fostering a culture of ownership and trust 23:00 – Why pride at work creates loyalty (even when it’s illogical) 25:00 – Making monotonous work fun: The Frosty Creek Olympics 28:00 – Using gamification and play to motivate teams 30:00 – Shared struggle vs. traditional team building 32:00 – Actionable tips for creating a joyful workplace culture 34:00 – Revisiting King of Pops’ 2030 Vision 36:00 – Where to find the book and connect with Steve
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🎙️ Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws
“The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” — Brandon Laws
About Xenium HR Xenium HR transforms workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium empowers growth by simplifying HR and creating environments where employees thrive. Learn more →
Connect with Brandon Laws:
- About Brandon
Connect with Xenium HR:
- Website
- YouTube
Dr. Angela Jackson discusses her book "The Win-Win Workplace," advocating for moving beyond traditional zero-sum work environments to create workplaces where both employees and businesses thrive. She emphasizes listening to employee feedback, embracing whole-person identities, reimagining benefits, and fostering ownership mindsets to drive productivity, retention, and bottom-line success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Listen to employees regularly and act on their feedback to build trust and engagement
- Support the whole person by acknowledging employees' full identities and life circumstances
- Create personalized benefits that address real needs rather than generic one-size-fits-all packages
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
This podcast episode explores how "radical listening" transforms leadership by focusing on intentional connection rather than performative techniques. Dr. Christian van Nieuwerburgh and Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener explain that radical listening requires internal quieting, purposeful attention, and genuine curiosity to overcome modern workplace distractions.
TAKEAWAYS
- Radical listening is an intentional act of connection that goes beyond traditional "active listening" techniques to build trust and influence.
- The Radical Listening Framework centers on positive intention, combining internal skills (quieting, noticing) with external skills (inquiring, acknowledging).
- Creating a listening culture requires self-awareness about when you feel heard and practicing appreciation-based listening without the intent to fix or solve.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Rob Shallenberger discusses his book "Do What Matters Most," explaining how implementing three key habits—creating personal visions, setting specific goals, and practicing pre-week planning—can dramatically increase productivity while reducing stress. These practices help people design intentional lives rather than defaulting to reactivity and chaos.
TAKEAWAYS
- Creating written personal visions for each key life role provides direction and meaning, transforming how you approach priorities (only 2% of people do this).
- Pre-week planning (spending 20-30 minutes weekly) allows you to accomplish 800-1,000 additional priorities annually with less stress.
- The "Do What Matters Most" matrix helps identify high-value quadrant 2 activities that lead to peace and fulfillment rather than constant firefighting.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this bonus podcast episode, Brandon Laws catches up with Nicole Blevins, who recently returned from maternity leave and stepped into a new role as Director of HR Services at Xenium HR. Nicole candidly shares her experience transitioning to parenthood, the challenges of balancing work and family responsibilities, and the significance of paid family leave. Despite the challenges of returning to work in a new leadership position while adjusting to parenthood, Nicole emphasizes how the flexibility of remote work, supportive leadership, and her passion for her career have helped her navigate this major life transition!
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this Transform Your Workplace episode, host Brandon Laws interviews Dr. Rosalind Chow about her book "The Doors You Can Open." They discuss the critical difference between mentorship and sponsorship, with Chow explaining that sponsors talk about you to others while mentors talk to you directly. Using Kim Ng's MLB breakthrough as an example, Chow emphasizes how sponsorship requires trust and can take different forms. She explores how "good gossip" celebrates others' achievements, the importance of diversifying social networks, and challenges with meritocracy. Chow concludes that everyone can be a sponsor by connecting people they admire.
TAKEAWAYS
- Sponsorship differs from mentorship in that sponsors promote others through trusted networks, while mentors focus on personal improvement
- Social capital comes in "small town" (close-knit, values-aligned) and "big city" (diverse, innovation-focused) forms, with both being valuable in different contexts
- Everyone can be a sponsor by connecting admired individuals with others in their network, regardless of status or position
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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Jennifer Moss discusses her book "Why Are We Here? Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants," exploring how the pandemic triggered a collective existential crisis about work. She emphasizes that meaningful workplace cultures can be built through small, intentional practices rather than major overhauls, focusing on hope, purpose, and community to combat burnout and disengagement in today's rapidly changing work environment.
TAKEAWAYS
- Building hope through regular goal-setting and celebrating small wins helps combat workplace anxiety and burnout
- Flexibility should be treated as a right rather than a perk, with organizations using "pull" strategies rather than mandates
- Creating community requires authentic connection through simple practices like 20-minute check-ins and positive colleague recognition
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of "Transform Your Workplace," host Brandon Laws interviews Loren Sanders about her book "Empathy is Not a Weakness and Other Stories from the Edge." Sanders shares her journey from being a toxic leader to understanding the power of empathy in the workplace. She discusses how empathy strengthens trust, reduces turnover, and increases engagement, while offering practical strategies for leaders to develop their empathy muscle through self-awareness and intentional practice.
TAKEAWAYS
- Empathy isn't weakness or coddling – it's about listening, understanding, and aligning actions with both people and business outcomes
- Leaders should practice self-reflection daily and create psychologically safe environments where vulnerability is normalized
- Developing empathy requires recognizing blind spots, practicing mindful presence, and taking small, consistent steps toward greater awareness
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Melody Wilding discusses her book "Managing Up," explaining how employees can effectively navigate relationships with those in power. She covers critical conversations about alignment, understanding workplace communication styles, setting boundaries, giving upward feedback, and leaving jobs gracefully. Wilding emphasizes these skills are essential in today's workplace where manager relationships significantly impact mental health and career advancement.
TAKEAWAYS
- Alignment is fundamental for success - Having clear conversations about priorities and expectations with managers helps ensure you're focusing on work that matters to both your boss and the organization.
- Understanding communication styles improves effectiveness - Recognizing the four workplace styles (Commander, Cheerleader, Caretaker, and Controller) allows you to frame messages in ways that resonate with different personality types.
- Setting boundaries requires strategic approaches - Learning to say no respectfully involves understanding your "pushback power" and using techniques like the "trade-off approach" and the "conditional yes" to maintain work-life balance.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
Matty Berryessa, Executive Director of Serendipity Center, shares his journey from a difficult upbringing to leading a therapeutic school for students with complex needs. Drawing parallels between supporting students and staff, he implements trauma-informed practices focused on emotional safety, trust, and predictability. Despite resource constraints, Matty maintains boundaries between work and home life while advocating for sustainable mission-driven work that prevents vulnerable students from falling through the cracks.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders should apply trauma-informed principles to workplace management, recognizing that adults are "better rehearsed kids" who perform best in environments with safety, predictability, and trust.
- Setting personal boundaries is essential for sustainable leadership in emotionally demanding work, as exemplified by Matty's practice of mentally transitioning before arriving home.
- Mission-driven organizations like Serendipity face unique challenges in resource acquisition while maintaining ethical boundaries around sharing the vulnerable populations they serve.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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What makes people stay—and thrive—at work? Career & Culture Strategist Aoife O’Brien joins Brandon Laws of Xenium HR to explore how leaders can build environments where people feel valued, safe, and energized. From toxic cultures to values-driven leadership, Aoife shares practical strategies from her Happier at Work framework and offers a glimpse into her upcoming book, Thriving Talent. If you’re all about retaining top talent and creating meaningful workplace experiences, this episode is a must-listen.
TAKEAWAYS
- Thriving workplace cultures are possible, and leaders are responsible for creating them.
- A company’s culture reflects its values, whether intentional or not.
- Effective leadership balances autonomy with clear guidance.
- People perform best when they can use their unique strengths regularly.
- Psychological safety is essential for honest feedback and team growth.
- Breaks and “unproductive” time are necessary for long-term wellbeing.
- Our guest’s upcoming book, Thriving Talent, offers a practical framework for building better workplace cultures.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this energizing episode of Transform Your Workplace, keynote speaker and author Peggy Sullivan delivers a much-needed wake-up call for today’s overwhelmed professionals. Sharing insights from her book Beyond Busyness: How to Achieve More by Doing Less, Peggy explores the hidden costs of glorifying busyness. Through heartfelt stories, she challenges leaders to rethink their priorities and model healthier, more intentional work habits. If you're a leader who feels stretched too thin, this episode is your invitation to lead differently — listen in and discover how doing less can help you and your team achieve more.
TAKEAWAYS
- Busyness is often mistaken for productivity but usually leads to poor quality, low energy, and burnout.
- Time poverty—lacking time for what matters—is a widespread challenge among professionals.
- Overstuffed schedules and constant multitasking reduce effectiveness and increase mistakes.
- Email and communication overload are major distractions that hinder meaningful work.
- Chronic busyness contributes to loneliness, disengagement, and health issues.
- Leaders who model intentional time management set a healthier tone for their teams.
- Eliminating low-value tasks is essential to creating space for high-impact work.
- Happiness is found in everyday micro-moments, not in achieving big milestones.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry shares powerful insights on navigating change with confidence. He emphasizes that flexibility is the key to effective leadership in uncertain times, challenging leaders to break strong habits, balance outcomes with people, and make smarter decisions. If you want to sharpen your leadership approach and learn how to lead with confidence through change, don’t miss this episode.
TAKEAWAYS
- During change, leaders should refocus teams on what stays the same to help them feel more grounded.
- Flexibility is the key to navigating uncertainty and making effective leadership decisions.
- Balancing outcomes with people is essential—strong leaders don’t have to choose one over the other.
- Breaking habits requires intentionality, as leadership routines can limit adaptability.
- Context matters—leaders must assess situations carefully rather than relying solely on best practices.
- People naturally seek certainty, even if it’s uncomfortable, making clear communication critical during change.
- Strong leadership begins with self-awareness and a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Leading effectively means embracing both stability and change while guiding teams with confidence.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Nikki Innocent, a leadership coach and DEI consultant, to explore the human side of workplace culture. Nikki shares a pivotal moment from her corporate career that ultimately led her to question workplace norms and advocate for more transparent, human-centered leadership. From addressing workplace toxicity to embracing multigenerational collaboration, Nikki challenges leaders to rethink how they create spaces where employees feel seen, valued, and heard. Listen in and discover how to break outdated workplace molds and foster a culture where authenticity and collaboration thrive.
TAKEAWAYS
- When employees leave without acknowledgment, it creates confusion, mistrust, and a lack of psychological safety in the workplace.
- Toxic workplaces are often the result of outdated systems, not just individual bad leaders.
- Viewing workplace dynamics as heroes vs. villains oversimplifies human behavior and limits opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Encouraging open conversations about challenges and discomfort leads to stronger teams and a healthier work environment.
- Modern leadership is shifting toward transparency, inclusion, and belonging—values that professionals across all generations seek.
- Acknowledging difficulties and emotions at work isn’t a weakness; it’s a sign of strength that fosters problem-solving and resilience.
- Since learning happens in every aspect of life, not just through formal education, workplaces should embrace continuous growth and adaptation.
- Multigenerational workplaces thrive when collaboration is prioritized over competition, creating space for diverse perspectives and innovation.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with global executive coach and author Sabina Nawaz to discuss the unseen pressures of leadership and how they can unknowingly change the way we lead. Drawing from her own experience as a former Microsoft executive, Nawaz shares how relentless pressure—not power—can corrupt even the most well-intentioned leaders. Through practical strategies, she offers a path forward for leaders to stay connected, self-aware, and intentional in their management approach. Don’t let pressure derail your leadership—tune in now to learn how to lead with clarity, connection, and confidence.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leadership pressure can quietly push managers toward efficiency over empathy, distancing them from their teams.
- Strengths in previous roles, like efficiency or attention to detail, can be misinterpreted negatively in leadership.
- Employees often avoid giving honest feedback to leaders, leading to blind spots and poor decisions.
- When leaders voice their opinions first, others may hesitate to challenge them, creating blind consensus.
- Small habits, like putting away your phone in meetings, can improve leadership presence and connection.
- Leaders are always being watched—small actions and reactions can significantly impact team morale.
- Leadership is about creating an environment where others succeed, not doing all the work yourself.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Siri Chilazi breaks down how small, practical changes can make hiring and workplace culture more fair and effective. She challenges the idea that bias training alone fixes workplace inequities and instead shows how data-driven tweaks can lead to real results. Chilazi also dives into common hiring biases, the power of accountability, and why companies that commit to fairness attract better talent. If you're a leader looking for simple, research-backed ways to improve your workplace, tune in today!
TAKEAWAYS
- Small changes in hiring practices can reduce bias and help employers focus on what matters.
- Bias training alone isn’t enough to create fairness; structural and data-driven changes are needed to drive real impact.
- Data should be more than just charts and reports—it should be used to identify gaps and take meaningful action toward equity.
- Transparency and accountability push organizations to follow through on diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Workplace norms shape behavior, and leaders can actively influence these norms to create a more inclusive culture.
- People naturally gravitate toward those similar to them, making structured hiring processes essential to reduce bias.
- Leaders don’t have to overhaul everything at once—small, intentional shifts can create big results over time.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Mark Mohammadpour, Founder and Chief Well-Being Officer at Chasing the Sun, challenges the idea of enterprise-wide culture, emphasizing that workplace wellness is built at the team level. He argues that true well-being goes beyond perks—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported. “Is my life better because I work here?” he asks, urging leaders to rethink benefits and communication. Tune in for insights on building a workplace culture that prioritizes both people and business success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Workplace culture is defined by the relationships between employees and their direct teams.
- True well-being isn’t just gym stipends or meditation apps but includes financial, social, career, and community health.
- Many employees don’t fully utilize company benefits due to an awareness gap that better communication can bridge.
- Managers play a crucial role in fostering a culture of well-being by prioritizing connection, clarity, and team-specific needs.
- Employees stay with companies where they feel valued and see opportunities for growth.
- Employees are willing to provide feedback, but only if leadership listens and takes meaningful action.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Emmy-winning sports broadcaster Anne Marie Anderson challenges us to rethink audacity — not as arrogance, but as the courage to take bold risks. She shares how a life-changing moment early in her career pushed her to stop waiting and start saying “yes” to adventure, opportunity, and growth. In this eye-opening discussion, Anderson proves that real success comes from action, not hesitation. Are you fostering a culture where bold ideas thrive, or are you letting fear and doubt hold your team back? Tune in to learn how to lead with audacity.
TAKEAWAYS
- Audacity is about taking bold risks, not arrogance, and it can be developed over time.
- Waiting for the “perfect” time can be riskier than taking the leap, as opportunities can disappear in an instant.
- Saying “yes” to challenges and taking risks is essential for growth.
- Fear of failure, rejection, and judgment never truly disappear, but success comes from learning to navigate them.
- Understanding the difference between urgent and important tasks helps prioritize long-term goals over short-term distractions.
- Success is rarely a solo journey — having a strong support system of mentors and challengers fosters bold decision-making.
- Growth requires change, and staying the same only ensures stagnation and missed opportunities.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
Connect with Xenium HR: Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Maria Ross unpacks insights from her book The Empathy Dilemma, all about how leaders can balance performance, people, and personal boundaries without sacrificing success. She debunks myths about empathy, explains its bottom-line impact, and shares practical ways to build a thriving, high-performing workplace. Tune in to learn how empathy can be your most powerful leadership tool.
TAKEAWAYS
- True empathy goes beyond kindness; it’s about understanding others’ perspectives and making better decisions.
- Empathy involves gathering information, while compassion turns that understanding into meaningful action.
- Employees with empathetic leaders are more innovative, engaged, and productive, driving better business outcomes.
- Effective leaders use empathy as a strategic strength, balancing performance with people’s needs.
- Jumping in with personal stories or solutions can derail connection whereas true empathy focuses on listening first.
- Instead of treating others as you want to be treated, empathy means treating people as they want to be treated.
- With five generations in the workforce, understanding different perspectives fosters stronger collaboration.
- Leaders who model and reward empathy set the foundation for a thriving workplace culture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. Christie Smith, the author of Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership. They explore how traditional leadership models are falling short and how combining human insight with AI is driving faster growth, deeper engagement, and a new set of power skills. The discussion highlights the urgent need for empathy, continuous learning, and genuine connection in today’s rapidly shifting business landscape. Sponsored by Xenium HR, a company dedicated to supporting small businesses with innovative and personalized HR solutions, this episode offers a fresh perspective on leading in an AI-driven world. Listeners are invited to like, subscribe, and join the journey into the future of leadership.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders must develop "emotional maturity" rather than just emotional intelligence, moving beyond self-interest to truly understand and support their employees' needs, challenges, and personal contexts.
- Organizations need to prioritize continuous learning and development, integrating it into daily work rather than treating it as a "side of desk" activity, especially as the half-life of skills continues to shorten.
- Self-care is essential for effective leadership, with Smith emphasizing that leaders must practice genuine self-care, self-forgiveness, and gratitude to build the resilience needed to face today's complex challenges.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws welcomes Robert Glazer to discuss his groundbreaking book, Rethinking Two Weeks’ Notice. Glazer challenges outdated norms surrounding employee transitions, advocating for open communication, mutual respect, and structured programs that benefit both employees and employers. With real-life examples and actionable insights into fostering psychological safety and transparency, Glazer provides a fresh take on improving workplace culture during departures. Tune in to hear how these strategies can transform the offboarding experience for both employer and employee.
TAKEAWAYS
- Rethinking traditional two-weeks' notice policies can lead to smoother and more respectful transitions.
- Psychological safety is essential for open communication and honest feedback between employees and employers.
- Transparent conversations about performance and future roles benefit both employees and organizations.
- Open transition programs allow employees to search for jobs while employed, reducing secrecy and mistrust.
- Clear timelines and written plans are key to successful transitions, including job search expectations and work responsibilities.
- Structured offboarding practices improve workplace culture and leave a lasting positive impression.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn Instagram About
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Michelle Gladieux, author of Communicate with Courage, explores the four hidden challenges of effective communication and shares practical strategies for overcoming them. From embracing vulnerability to balancing authority and empathy, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you communicate with authenticity and purpose.
TAKEAWAYS
- Bravery is a critical component of effective communication as it allows us to take risks and avoid regret.
- Hiding from risk stems from fear of exposing vulnerabilities, which can hinder personal growth and authentic connections.
- Clinging to being right often blocks the opportunity to learn from others’ perspectives and experiences.
- Pessimistic self-talk can negatively color communication, but choosing optimism can transform both interactions and outlooks.
- Settling for "good enough" prevents individuals from reaching their full potential in meaningful situations.
- Balancing vulnerability with authority can humanize communication, especially for those in leadership roles.
- Sharing personal communication goals with others helps shift perceptions and fosters accountability.
- Thoughtful self-reflection and feedback-seeking are essential for continuous growth as a communicator.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Charles Feltman unpacks the dynamics of trust in the workplace, sharing insights from his book, The Thin Book of Trust. With decades of experience coaching leaders and teams, Charles discusses how trust is built through small actions, how to repair it when it’s broken, and why it’s essential for productivity and well-being. Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with practical advice on building trust that lasts.
TAKEAWAYS
- Strong trust in workplaces boosts productivity and well-being, while a lack of trust can derail both.
- Trust involves vulnerability, as it gives others some control over things we value.
- Reliability means keeping commitments, showing up prepared, and following through on promises.
- Sincerity combines honesty and integrity, ensuring words align with actions.
- Caring means considering others' interests alongside your own and acting with good intentions.
- Competence includes being honest about what you can and can’t do and setting clear expectations.
- A solid foundation of trust allows teams to take greater risks and achieve more together.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws speaks with WEX leaders Melanie Tinto and Karen Stroup about the transformative impact of AI on employee benefits. Melanie shares strategies for simplifying open enrollment and building employee confidence through accessible education, while Karen highlights WEX’s innovative AI tools, including the Benefits Admin AI Assistant and personalized advice features. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping benefits navigation, empowering employees, and driving a more efficient and engaging workplace experience.
TAKEAWAYS
- AI-powered tools, like WEX's Benefits Admin AI Assistant, simplify benefits navigation and provide real-time support for employees.
- Personalized advice from AI helps employees optimize decisions, such as leveraging HSAs and other benefit options.
- Simplifying complex processes and removing jargon empowers employees to feel confident in their benefits choices.
- AI innovations enhance employee experiences while aligning business goals, reducing costs, and driving workplace performance.
- Shared organizational goals create alignment and foster collaboration across leadership teams.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with James Lawrence, Co-Founder and CEO of Happy, about the game-changing role of AI in employee development. Lawrence breaks down how AI can help shift the focus from mundane tasks to creative work, making life easier for us all. He also shares how Happy uses behavioral science and AI to scale coaching, improve manager-employee relationships, and navigate healthy workplace conflict. Tune in to learn how AI-powered tools like Happy are transforming workplaces.
TAKEAWAYS
- AI tools reduce mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus more on creative and meaningful work.
- Coaching isn’t just for leaders — AI can provide scalable, personalized coaching to employees at every level.
- Tools like Happy offer insights that help employees understand their managers and improve workplace dynamics.
- AI makes it possible to offer coaching and growth opportunities to large workforces without overwhelming leaders.
- AI tools analyze behavioral patterns to deliver tailored coaching, improving collaboration and team connections.
- Many managers lack training in people management — AI tools bridge the gap by supporting better communication and leadership.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
James Lawrence, Co-Founder and CEO of Happy, is an entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience. He is passionate about empowering people, fostering intentional leadership, and improving workplace culture.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws wraps up his conversation with Josh Durham, founder of Gamut Project Solutions, on the Foundational Five framework for leadership and growth. Josh reflects on lessons from his years in commercial construction and emphasizes the importance of “daring greatly” by embracing failure and taking thoughtful, measured risks. With insights on fostering psychological safety and building with purpose, this episode offers practical tools for anyone looking to lead boldly, build meaningful relationships, and create lasting impact.
TAKEAWAYS
- Embracing failure as a gift and learning opportunity is essential for growth.
- Taking thoughtful, measured risks can drive personal and professional transformation.
- Creating psychological safety is crucial for fostering high-performing teams in any organization.
- Leaders should act with purpose and intention, mapping out meaningful journeys for themselves and their teams.
- Mastering one’s craft requires continuous learning and avoiding repeated mistakes.
- Spreading goodwill generously and maintaining a positive approach can create lasting impact, even during challenges.
- Being both the hero and guide in one’s own life involves taking ownership rather than falling into victim or villain roles.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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This podcast episode discusses balancing workplace flexibility with accountability. HR expert Nicole Blevins addresses how managers can handle situations where employees use flexible work arrangements while maintaining performance standards. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication, regular performance discussions, and addressing issues promptly rather than letting them fester.
TAKEAWAYS
- Regular performance conversations and clear expectations upfront prevent flexibility-related issues from becoming major problems later.
- For exempt employees, flexibility should be judged based on work completion and quality rather than specific hours worked.
- When cultural issues arise around flexibility, managers should focus on addressing individual employee concerns rather than comparing employees to each other
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Matt Norman, author of Lead with Influence: A Proven Process to Lead Without Authority, shares how influence is a skill — one that requires intention, practice, and vulnerability to master. Norman highlights the power of showing up deliberately in relationships, tackling root causes instead of symptoms, and making consistent "deposits" of trust. Tune in for insights on shifting from reactive habits to intentional influence, no matter your title or authority.
TAKEAWAYS
- Influence is a skill that can be intentionally practiced and developed over time.
- Understanding the root cause of challenges is more effective than addressing surface-level symptoms.
- Building trust requires consistent “deposits” through appreciation, generosity, and vulnerability.
- Intentionality in relationships can shift patterns and foster deeper connections.
- Small actions, like listening actively or staying engaged, can prevent others from going into “self-protect mode.”
- Vision and purpose help elevate work beyond tasks to a meaningful collective goal.
- Influence grows when leaders focus on relationships, trust, and the bigger picture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws chats with Chris Laudadio, CEO of VersaDesk, about the company’s evolution from a $100 bootstrap startup in 2000 to a leader in ergonomic workspace solutions. The discussion covers the company's commitment to sustainability, innovative design, and creating healthier, more engaging work environments. Tune in for insights on the future of workspaces, including VersaDesk’s exciting new products for 2025.
TAKEAWAYS
- Chris Laudadio started VersaDesk in 2000 with just $100, growing it into a leader in ergonomic workspace solutions.
- The company has introduced innovative products like standing desks, flip-up monitor tables, and app-controlled desks.
- VersaDesk prioritizes sustainability by sourcing materials locally, using recycled components, and choosing eco-friendly paints and adhesives.
- Standing while working and open workplaces contribute to healthier work environments.
- Focusing on customer feedback has driven the company’s success, particularly in the education and healthcare markets.
- Looking ahead to 2025, the company plans to launch new technologies to stay at the forefront of ergonomic design.
Learn more about VersaDesk
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, bestselling author Moe Carrick explores how fostering purpose and belonging at work drives success for employees and organizations alike. With over 30 years of expertise, she shares actionable strategies for creating connection, building trust, and leading with courage. Tune in to learn how to transform your workplace into a thriving community.
TAKEAWAYS
- Thriving workplaces benefit everyone, creating positive ripples through organizations, families, and communities.
- Belonging is essential, and work often fulfills this need for connection.
- Leaders must balance goals with fostering purpose, keeping values like trust and empathy at the forefront.
- A thriving team relies on self-care and team care, while courage and curiosity build trust and authenticity.
- Consistently showing up, even imperfectly, fosters connection, and meaningful work helps employees find purpose and identity.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this special 500th episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, host Brandon Laws reconnects with longtime friend and colleague, Lacey Partipilo—the very first guest from episode one. Together, they reminisce about the podcast's humble beginnings back in 2012, discussing the challenges and triumphs that shaped its evolution. Dive into their personal growth stories, insights on how HR and leadership have transformed over the past decade, and what the future holds for workplaces everywhere. Plus, enjoy some fun rapid-fire questions as Brandon and Lacey share personal anecdotes and celebrate this incredible milestone. Join us for a heartfelt look back and an inspiring look forward!
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this Transform Your Workplace episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Sean Grace, author of The Art of the Question, to explore the transformative power of curiosity and the skill of asking meaningful questions. Grace emphasizes that curiosity isn’t just for kids — it’s a tool for leaders to foster connection, growth, and innovative thinking. He shares how letting go of the need to "know" and asking the right questions opens leaders up to new perspectives and unlocks team creativity. If you’re a leader looking to deepen your influence and inspire genuine engagement, tune in to learn how to master the art of the question.
TAKEAWAYS
- Curiosity helps leaders grow personally and professionally by fostering open-minded exploration.
- Leaders can create stronger connections and drive innovation by embracing questions over answers.
- Open-ended questions like "How might we...?" stimulate creative thinking and teamwork.
- Leaders focused on inquiry can unlock their team's wisdom and unique perspectives.
- Self-questioning increases leaders' self-awareness, helping them recognize biases.
- Cultivating curiosity prevents the "atrophy" of questioning skills over time.
- The Socratic Method empowers teams by guiding them to discover their own answers.
- Asking "So what? Who cares?" ensures relevant and impactful communication.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
About Xenium HR
Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws interviews Matt Beane, author of The Skill Code, to explore how skill development is being disrupted by modern productivity demands and technology. Beane highlights the timeless power of mentorship and hands-on learning, tracing its roots from ancient craftsmanship to today’s robotic surgeries. However, he also warns that prioritizing productivity over skill-building risks “de-skilling” the workforce. Leaders, if you’re serious about preserving expertise and fostering growth in your organization, this episode is a must-listen.
TAKEAWAYS
- Mentorship and hands-on learning have always been essential for skill development, from ancient craftsmanship to modern robotic surgery.
- Effective learning happens when people are challenged to grow, explore broader systems, and build trust with others.
- Many workers, called "shadow learners," find informal ways to learn, like using technology or online resources, but this can lead to both innovation and risks.
- Systems focused too much on productivity can unintentionally prevent skill-building, leaving workers underprepared.
- Organizations need simple ways to identify and address skill gaps early.
- Leaders should continually refine their strategies to ensure their teams stay skilled and adaptable.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this podcast episode, Sarah Touzani discusses Waggle, an AI-powered leadership coaching platform that provides real-time, personalized feedback for managers. Drawing from her background in finance and startups, she explains how the technology observes meeting interactions to help leaders improve their skills continuously. The platform aims to address traditional leadership training limitations by offering immediate, context-specific coaching insights while prioritizing individual data privacy.
TAKEAWAYS
- Sarah Touzani transitioned from banking to creating an AI-based leadership coaching tool that provides real-time, personalized feedback for managers.
- Waggle uses meeting transcripts and AI to analyze leadership behaviors, offering immediate insights on communication, empathy, and management skills.
- The platform emphasizes data privacy, allowing individual users to own their data while potentially providing aggregated, anonymized organizational insights.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws interviews economist Mallory Vachon, who shares her expertise on the current state of the labor market and what lies ahead. Vachon, a senior economist with LaborIQ, sheds light on key trends like the evolving expectations of Gen Z, the challenges with compensation amidst labor shortages, and the reality of hybrid work becoming a long-term staple. HR leaders, this episode is a must-listen to stay ahead in a changing workforce — tune in to better understand how you can adapt to these trends and meet the evolving demands of today's labor market.
TAKEAWAYS
- The labor market is stabilizing post-pandemic, with job additions slowing to meet steady workforce needs.
- Gen Z values purpose, quality of life, and mission-driven work over traditional motivators like pay and promotions.
- Wage growth will likely stay above pre-pandemic levels due to talent shortages and inflation pressures.
- Remote and hybrid work are likely here to stay as flexibility becomes essential to attracting talent.
- Competition for local talent has intensified, with remote work expanding hiring possibilities.
- The gig economy is growing as workers seek greater control, flexibility, and work-life balance.
- Despite concerns, the labor market is largely stable, with gradual rehiring in many industries.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Emily Etherington, an HR business partner at Xenium, discusses managing substance abuse in the workplace. She explains that with substance abuse affecting one in ten people nationally, workplaces need structured approaches to support affected employees. The discussion covers two main support frameworks: company assistance programs for employees who self-disclose, and last chance agreements for cases involving policy violations or performance issues.
TAKEAWAYS
- Organizations should balance zero-tolerance policies with supportive resources and structures for employee recovery
- Success requires both employer willingness to support and employee commitment to engage in treatment
- Using third-party management for cases helps maintain professionalism and protect sensitive health information
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Sit down for a timely conversation between host Brandon Laws and guest Mitch Warner, co-author of Leadership and Self-Deception. Warner reveals how self-deception is often the hidden root of workplace challenges, and leaders who help their teams shift from blame to accountability unleash creativity and collaboration. Sharing insights from the fourth edition of his book, Warner emphasizes that true transformation isn’t about implementing more tactics but about changing the way people see one another and themselves.
TAKEAWAYS
- Most team challenges come from people dynamics, not technical problems, and resolving these is crucial for progress.
- Team members often struggle to recognize their role in problems, which keeps conflicts unresolved.
- Lasting transformation happens when people change how they view themselves and others.
- Understanding others’ perspectives strengthens relationships and promotes growth within teams.
- The need to be “right” often leads people to ignore their own contributions to problems, which can hurt relationships and team goals.
- Recognizing how each of our actions impacts colleagues leads to better work quality and a more connected, supportive workplace.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Chris Deaver, a people leader at Roblox and co-author of Brave Together, shares his experiences working with some of the most creative teams at Apple, Disney, and beyond. He dives into how co-creation and collaboration are key to overcoming the impossible. Chris also touches on the importance of humility, creativity, and empathy in leadership, offering insights on how to shape the future by co-creating with others. Tune in to hear about turning pain into power, reimagining the mundane, and building a culture that sparks creativity and connection.
TAKEAWAYS
-
Collaboration and co-creation are crucial for achieving challenging goals, especially within innovative teams.
-
Traditional, siloed work structures can lead to friction and burnout.
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Humility and empathy in leadership help to build stronger, more connected teams.
-
By transforming meetings into collaborative, question-led experiences, leaders can increase engagement and creativity within their teams.
-
Great companies see themselves as builders and prioritize creativity as a key driver of innovation.
-
Personal challenges can be reframed into opportunities for growth and leadership.
-
Success in the modern world isn't about being self-made, but about co-creating a future with others, emphasizing teamwork and shared goals.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Shastina Young has been heavily envolved with Xenium HR's equity team since its inception in 2018, starting with external consultants and evolving into an internal volunteer-based equity team structure. The organization operates through three main pillars: "Invest in Our People," "Look Beyond Our Four Walls," and "Cultural Belonging and Career Support."
TAKEAWAYS
- Xenium HR created a volunteer-based equity team with three focused subcommittees, each with specific missions and action items.
- Success comes from leadership buy-in combined with employee passion and ownership over initiatives.
- Regular, accessible programs like Zen Connects help maintain ongoing engagement with EDIB topics through voluntary participation and educational resources.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws interviews Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, diving into the idea of "intelligent failure" and the importance of fostering psychological safety within teams. Edmondson, author of The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, shares insights on how stepping into unfamiliar territory often brings failure but also opens the door to critical learning experiences. Tune in to discover how leaders can cultivate an environment where employees feel empowered to take risks, address mistakes openly, and drive ongoing growth and innovation.
TAKEAWAYS
- Failure can lead to valuable insights if approached thoughtfully.
- Creating an environment where employees feel safe to voice concerns and admit mistakes is essential for fostering innovation and improvement.
- Teams that embrace failure as a learning opportunity are more likely to develop new ideas, improve processes, and grow from their experiences.
- Encouraging employees to take calculated risks without fear of judgment is critical to driving creativity and progress in the workplace.
- While fear can sometimes be helpful in dangerous situations, interpersonal fear in the workplace can stifle communication, prevent learning, and create unnecessary barriers.
- It’s important to take the time to reflect on failures holistically, gathering insights from all team members to understand what went wrong and how to improve.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Annie Oxenfeld discusses disaster preparedness for companies with multi-state employees. She emphasizes the importance of having contingency plans, flexible work arrangements, and support systems in place. The conversation covers communication strategies, employee assistance programs, and ways to maintain operations while prioritizing employee safety and well-being during natural disasters.
TAKEAWAYS
- Develop and regularly update disaster preparedness plans.
- Offer flexible work arrangements and support resources for affected employees.
- Integrate safety and disaster preparedness into company culture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Josh Durham, founder of Gamut Project Solutions, to explore his leadership philosophy and the importance of relationships in the workplace. Durham shares valuable insights on building trust and empathy while fostering psychological safety in the workplace and beyond. Listen in for practical advice on building meaningful relationships and leading with purpose.
TAKEAWAYS
- Relationships are the most important element of effective leadership.
- Self-awareness combined with personal development is essential to building meaningful connections.
- Without mastering key leadership principles such as communication, trust, agreements, and ownership, relationships within teams and organizations will struggle.
- Positive transformation can only occur when basic needs for survival and belonging are met.
- Adopting a positive mindset and spreading goodwill often results in building positive relationships.
- Successful negotiations go beyond facts and figures; they require empathy to understand the other person's broader circumstances.
- Leadership is more effective when leaders focus on guiding and empowering their team rather than trying to solve every problem themselves.
- Fostering trust and psychological safety in teams is best achieved through authentic, purpose-driven leadership, rather than relying on superficial or defensive leadership behaviors.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Nicole Blevins discusses key voluntary benefits trends for 2025. The conversation covers supplemental health benefits, legal plans, identity theft protection, life insurance, long-term care, and pet insurance. They emphasize the importance of offering diverse benefits to meet employee needs and retain talent, noting that 63% of employees would consider changing jobs for better benefits.
TAKEAWAYS
- Supplemental health benefits are gaining popularity due to increased awareness of health risks post-COVID, helping employees cover gaps in traditional insurance.
- Identity theft and cybersecurity protection are becoming more critical as data breaches increase, with employers considering adding these benefits to address employee concerns.
- Pet insurance is a rising trend, with many employers already adding this option to support employees who view pets as family members and want to ensure their care.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, entrepreneur and Speakers Alliance co-founder Terry Beard opens up about his journey from avoiding public speaking to becoming a confident leader in the speaking community. Terry shares how confronting his fear of the spotlight changed his life, helping him build the communication skills and confidence that have since empowered him to guide others on a similar path. Tune in for valuable insights into the transformative power of finding your own voice.
TAKEAWAYS
- Facing fears like public speaking can lead to significant personal and professional growth.
- Discovering and using your voice is the key to expressing yourself authentically and effectively in all areas of life.
- Authentic leadership means empowering others to face and conquer their own challenges.
- A support system is critical on their journey to overcoming fears.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. MH Pelletier, a leading expert in workplace psychology, to discuss insights from her new book, The Resilience Plan. Dr. Pelletier explains how burnout develops gradually, as exhaustion, cynicism, and declining performance set in. That’s why we must stay self-aware, recognizing early signs of overextension before it impacts our well-being. By creating a personalized strategic resilience plan grounded in individual values, we can proactively manage stress, preserve our mental health, and optimize workplace performance. Listen in to find out how fostering resilience at both the individual and organizational levels can lead to healthier, more effective teams and workplaces.
TAKEAWAYS
- Recognizing early warning signs like exhaustion, cynicism, and declining performance is key to preventing full burnout.
- High performers often overlook signs of overextension, but staying mindful of physical and emotional cues can help prevent long-term negative impacts on mental health.
- A personalized resilience plan must align with your core values to ensure it’s both practical and meaningful.
- Regularly incorporating small, actionable habits into daily routines can safeguard resilience and prevent burnout.
- Leaders who prioritize self-awareness and resilience set a positive example for their teams and are better equipped to handle workplace demands.
- Fostering resilience at individual, team, and organizational levels creates a healthier, more productive work environment.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Sit down with Scott Young, author of Get Better at Anything, to explore best practices for achieving mastery in the workplace. In this conversation, Young shares unconventional strategies for accelerating learning in today's tech-driven world, highlighting the importance of externalizing knowledge and prioritizing progress over perfection. Tune in for insight on ditching old habits and adapting to the ever-changing demands of a modern workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Young highlights the importance of leveraging technology and innovative methods to accelerate the learning process in today’s fast-paced workplace.
- Sharing what you know with others is essential for growth and improving efficiency within teams and organizations.
- Focusing on continuous improvement, rather than striving for perfection, leads to better long-term results.
- Letting go of outdated practices is crucial to adapting and thriving in a rapidly changing work environment.
- Flexibility and openness to new approaches are key to navigating the challenges posed by evolving workplace demands.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, entrepreneur and Gen Z expert Kat Walsh sheds light on how organizations can better attract and retain Generation Z talent in a fast-evolving workforce. She debunks common Gen Z misconceptions and illuminates their desire for work-life balance, personal development, and purpose in the workplace. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Gen Z so that, ultimately, you can realize further innovation and engagement in your business.
TAKEAWAYS
- Organizations often focus too much on skill-based job postings and overlook the importance of aligning their values with those of Gen Z.
- Gen Z places a high value on personal development, with 84% prioritizing learning and growth over job titles or promotions.
- Gen Z is known for seeking careers that align with their lifestyle and values.
- Innovation thrives when organizations encourage collaboration between Gen Z and older generations and leverage the unique strengths of each.
- Gen Z is known for their straightforward communication style and skepticism.
- Businesses that can adapt to Gen Z’s needs will be better positioned to attract and retain this growing workforce.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Linda Cohen, known as the kindness catalyst, discusses the importance of kindness in the workplace and how it can transform organizational culture. She shares her journey into this field, which began with a personal project of performing 1000 acts of kindness (mitzvahs) in memory of her father. Cohen now works with various organizations, including credit unions, senior living communities, and healthcare institutions, to implement kindness strategies and improve workplace cultures. She emphasizes the impact of small acts of kindness, the need for recognition and communication, and the benefits of creating a culture where kindness is a core value.
TAKEAWAYS
- Kindness is a smart business strategy that improves employee retention and customer service.
- Small acts of kindness create a ripple effect, significantly impacting morale and workplace culture.
- Direct, honest communication is a crucial form of kindness in the workplace, especially during conflicts.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️
Host: Brandon Laws 📋
his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In a recent episode of Transform Your Workplace, Dr. Yasmin Davidds, a negotiation and leadership expert, delves into the transformative power of gracious communication in the workplace. The episode emphasizes the importance of leading with humanity, gratitude, and empathy because, according to our guest, true leadership emerges when we prioritize understanding and kindness over aggressive tactics. Tune in for a compelling reminder that the journey to becoming a better leader is founded on becoming a better human being.
TAKEAWAYS
- Gracious and empathetic communication fosters better relationships and outcomes in the workplace.
- True leadership is rooted in humanity, where empathy, gratitude, and kindness are prioritized.
- The energy a leader brings into the workplace is reciprocal, creating an environment of emotional safety and transparency.
- Effective leaders must be clear about their values, guiding their decisions not just by profit but by what benefits humanity and others.
- Leaders should offer empathy and understanding before making requests.
- Personal development is essential for leadership, requiring self-awareness, social awareness, and self-regulation to connect effectively with others.
- The concept of "graciously assertive communication" blends kindness with directness, encouraging leaders to communicate clearly while maintaining respect and empathy.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In a captivating episode of Transform Your Workplace, award-winning children's authors and entrepreneurs Alysson Foti Bourque and Lori Orlinsky share their inspiring journeys from corporate careers to the world of publishing, both of whom found new purpose through writing books that resonate deeply with children and families. Together, they've built Expound Publicity, a thriving PR firm, all while balancing the demands of business with their passion for storytelling and family life. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of the courage it takes to pursue one's true calling and the lasting impact of a powerful story.
TAKEAWAYS
- Entrepreneurs can pursue their callings, but they must also balance the demands of business with the responsibilities of family life.
- Expound Publicity focuses on tailoring marketing strategies to fit the unique needs of each client rather than the one-size-fits-all methods common in the corporate world.
- Our podcast guests’ books aim to empower children, tackling important topics like bullying and self-acceptance.
- If you want to pursue your passion, you must push past fear and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws dives deep into corporate wellness with Dr. Monica Vermani, a clinical psychologist and author of A Deeper Wellness: Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety and Traumas. Dr. Vermani sheds light on the vital role of self-awareness in understanding our symptoms and seeking the right help. With the rise in workplace stress and anxiety, made worse by the pandemic, Dr. Vermani's insights advocate for a holistic approach to mental health, both at home and at work. Tune in for practical advice on overcoming burnout and finding peace, no matter where you are in your professional or personal life journey.
TAKEAWAYS
- Self-awareness helps us comprehend how our symptoms impact our own lives and the lives of those around us.
- Many individuals struggle with articulating their mental health issues, which can hinder proper care.
- Employees are often confused about which mental health professionals to consult for various issues, so understanding the roles of different specialists can help in seeking the right support.
- The pandemic has exacerbated stress and anxiety in the workplace, so comprehensive wellness programs are critical to supporting employees during these challenging times.
- According to Dr. Vermani, suffering has a purpose and can act as a catalyst for personal growth and change.
- To find true wellness, we must reevaluate unhealthy lifestyle habits and integrate holistic strategies for well-being.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, seasoned executive coach and leadership strategist Sarah Schneider explores how societal, cultural, and family influences shape leadership. Sarah highlights the human side of leadership, stressing that in an increasingly impersonal world, embracing vulnerability and authenticity is crucial for success. Listen in to learn how leaders can not only craft their unique styles but also bring their true selves to the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Societal, cultural, and familial influences significantly shape how leaders show up in their professional lives.
- Recognizing and embracing the human side of leadership is crucial in today's increasingly impersonal world.
- Leaders must be open and genuine to foster a more effective and relatable leadership style.
- By acknowledging and incorporating human elements into their leadership, leaders can create more compassionate and productive workplaces.
- Self-reflection is an uncomfortable but critical aspect of learning how to lead effectively.
Sign up for the Annual What People Want from Work Survey by August 16th
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest Transform Your Workplace podcast episode, Brandon Laws explores the changing landscape of HR with Kathi Enderes, Senior VP of Research and Global Industry Analyst at the Josh Bersin Company. Enderes, coauthor of The Definitive Guide to Human Resources, introduces the transformative concept of Systemic HR and its critical role in addressing modern challenges such as hybrid work, AI, and leadership development. Thinking about revamping your company’s HR? Give this episode a listen and learn how Systemic HR can have a profound impact on your business success.
TAKEAWAYS
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HR has evolved from a compliance-oriented function to a key player in business strategy, dealing with complex issues like hybrid work, company culture, and leadership development.
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The Systemic HR model emphasizes HR's role in adding value to the business by understanding multiple domains and the overall mission of the business.
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HR is now "the most important function" within organizations, playing a crucial role in adapting to new technologies and driving future success.
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The HR function is adapting to the integration of AI, finding ways to leverage AI for organizational and HR benefits.
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Modern HR must address the dynamics of a multi-generational workforce and rapidly changing work environments.
Sign up for the Annual What People Want from Work Survey by August 16th
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with Josh Durham, Founder of Gamut Project Solutions and a seasoned expert in the construction industry. With over seventeen years of experience managing billion-dollar projects, Josh dives into the principle of agency in leadership and its critical role in professional success. Durham offers valuable insights that can help elevate your leadership skills and workplace dynamics. Don’t miss this essential discussion on empowering yourself and others through agency.
TAKEAWAYS
- Understanding and embodying the principle of agency is crucial for effective leadership and team cohesion.
- Focusing on what you can control helps to reduce anxiety and improve your personal and professional life.
- Leaders who promote agency within their teams create a high-performing and engaged workforce.
- Believing in your own agency and taking ownership of your actions is vital for professional success and overcoming challenges.
- Feeling a sense of control helps us to manage conflicts more calmly and constructively.
- Having well-defined processes in place enhances a sense of control and agency, contributing to better leadership and organizational performance.
- Understanding internal versus external locus of control helps leaders and their team members focus on areas where they can make an impact.
Sign up for the Annual What People Want from Work Survey by August 16th
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, host Brandon Laws sits down with guest Rob Bier to dive into the challenges businesses face as they scale. Rob introduces common pitfalls that arise as companies expand and best practices for supporting growth, sharing insights from his book, Smooth Scaling: 20 Rituals to Build a Friction-Free Organization. The discussion covers crucial aspects like the need for productive dialogue, the impact of remote work on communication, and innovative strategies to ensure alignment and efficiency as organizations scale. This episode is a must-listen if you want to grow without all the growing pains.
TAKEAWAYS
- Proper scaling maintains the core qualities of a small, efficient organization as it expands.
- Businesses often encounter similar issues at specific stages of growth, particularly as they transition from small to larger teams.
- Effective communication forms the foundation for strategic decisions, technology implementation, and hiring practices.
- Remote work tools can hinder relationship-building conversations that require trust and are often best conducted in person.
- Leaders should encourage early, open, and trust-building conversations among team members, helping to prevent and smoothly address conflicts.
Sign up for the Annual What People from Work Survey by August 16, 2024
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Lacey Partipilo, Director of HR and Client Success at Xenium HR, to discuss the recent decline in US employee engagement, now at its lowest in 11 years. Partipilo draws insights from a recent Gallup report and highlights some innovative strategies to re-engage employees. With a focus on building a positive workplace culture, this episode provides valuable guidance for employers striving to navigate the new normal and boost employee engagement.
TAKEAWAYS
- By early 2024, employee engagement in the US had reached its lowest level in 11 years, with only 30% of workers feeling highly engaged.
- The lingering impacts of the pandemic continue to disrupt employee sentiment and stability in the workplace.
- Economic uncertainty significantly affects employee engagement, causing increased anxiety and lower commitment levels.
- Many organizations struggle to effectively manage a hybrid or fully remote workforce, leading to decreased engagement.
- Employees, particularly younger ones, desire to see the impact of their work on the organization and broader community.
- High-engagement organizations prioritize regular surveys and actionable feedback.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Join us for a never-before-discussed topic on our podcast: safety at work. Our two guests, Deb Bridges, a health and safety consultant at Safety Northwest, and Xenium’s own Emily Etherington, an HR business partner, share insights on how to combat safety concerns while fostering a culture of safety. Deb explains the importance of regular risk assessments and proper training, while Emily emphasizes the role of clear communication and supportive policies. Together, they provide practical strategies for creating a safer workplace and discuss the critical partnership between HR and safety professionals in achieving this goal.
TAKEAWAYS
- The significance of going beyond compliance in safety programs.
- Understanding the financial and personal implications of safety incidents.
- The importance of top-down buy-in and team effort in prioritizing safety.
- Effective communication about safety laws and regulations with employees.
- The necessity of having a well-developed, practiced emergency response plan.
- Making safety work meaningful and rewarding to ensure effective execution.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
If you want to see lasting culture change, you’ve got to fall in love with the process, not the goal. In the latest episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, leadership and culture expert James Ferguson discusses his new role as Director of Culture for the Wurzak Hotel Group. He shares his insights on shaping organizational culture with increased engagement, focus on mission, and employee recognition. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance workplace culture and foster a sense of belonging among team members.
TAKEAWAYS
- Lasting cultural change requires embracing the improvement process rather than just aiming for the end goal.
- Effective internal communication helps team members understand the company’s mission, which is crucial for cultural cohesion.
- Orientation “done right” creates context, connection, and culture, which can significantly reduce turnover and unify the team.
- Wurzak’s recognition initiative celebrates employees daily and weekly for living out the company's brand pillars, reinforcing the value of their contributions.
- “Culture Committees” give employees a voice, building trust and encouraging participation in the company’s cultural development efforts.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey before August 16th - https://xeniumhr.com/what-people-want-from-work/
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Listen in on a thought-provoking episode of Transform Your Workplace, where host Brandon Laws sits down with linguistic anthropologist Dr. Suzanne Wertheim to discuss insights from her book, The Inclusive Language Field Guide. To foster respectful communication, she teaches us that context is key and offers guiding principles rather than rigid lists. Dr. Wertheim's insights give listeners practical tools to avoid painful mistakes and engage in meaningful conversations. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to communicate more effectively in our ever-changing world.
TAKEAWAYS
- Language is constantly changing, and it's important to stay updated to communicate effectively and respectfully.
- Instead of relying on fixed lists of acceptable and unacceptable words, it's crucial to understand the context in which language is used, as meanings and appropriateness can change.
- Dr. Wertheim offers six principles of inclusive language that act as guardrails to help ensure respectful and meaningful communication.
- By following the principles of inclusive language, we can all avoid unintentional harm and engage in conversations that are safe and respectful.
- Those who want to change should commit to continuous learning and adaptability because making small, consistent efforts can lead to significant improvements in communication.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey before August 31st - https://xeniumhr.com/what-people-want-from-work/
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
It’s time to talk money with host Brandon Laws and Nicole Blevins of Xenium HR. Generative AI is revolutionizing the salary discussion, arming employees with the knowledge and confidence to negotiate better compensation. But are leaders ready for such transparency? Tune in for fresh insight into how employers can approach the compensation conversation with honest data and open communication in this new era of salary transparency.
TAKEAWAYS
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Employees are leveraging tools like ChatGPT to access salary ranges, providing them significant leverage in salary negotiations.
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The shift in power dynamics from employers to employees is driven by the accessibility of salary information through platforms like Glassdoor and LinkedIn, combined with AI data analysis.
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Employers must adapt to this new landscape by being well-informed and transparent about compensation, using validated and verified data to support their pay structures.
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Clear and specific job descriptions are crucial, as they help align compensation with actual job duties and competencies, tailored to the organization’s size, revenue, and geographical location.
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Employers need to educate employees on the factors that influence compensation, addressing misconceptions and ensuring that comparisons are made on a like-for-like basis.
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Open and transparent communication about compensation strategies is essential in building trust and clarity.
- Employers should be prepared for tough conversations and support employees’ aspirations, even if it means acknowledging higher-paying opportunities elsewhere.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Nicole Blevins and Brandon Laws share tips to boost summer employee engagement. Suggestions include flexible schedules, outdoor team activities, wellness challenges like walking competitions, and providing spaces to work outdoors. They emphasize getting employee input on desired summer perks to create work-life balance.
TAKEAWAYS
- Offer flexible work options like half-day Fridays, compressed workweeks, or remote days
- Plan outdoor team-building activities like picnics, sporting events, or walking challenges
- Create outdoor working spaces and encourage wellness by allowing employees to work outside
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Sit down with host Brandon Laws and guest Dr. Gregory Chasson for a never-discussed topic on our podcast: perfectionism in the workplace. Drawing insights from his recent book, Flawed, Dr. Chasson paints a picture of how the relentless pursuit of perfection can spiral into a toxic force within corporate culture. Tune in to learn how leaders can combat this “perfection obsession” with empathy, understanding, and flexibility.
TAKEAWAYS
- Perfectionism becomes problematic when it involves excessive, inflexible demands that go beyond what's considered normal or healthy.
- Procrastination is often a manifestation of perfectionism because people engage in safety behaviors such as excessive checking, reassurance-seeking, or extensive research to avoid failure.
- Perfectionism undermines workplace efficiency and productivity because it leads to decision paralysis, a toxic work environment, and other-oriented perfectionism, where employees impose unrealistic standards on their colleagues.
- Organizational practices like public praise or leaderboards can unwittingly perpetuate a culture of perfectionism, often demoralizing those struggling to meet the high standards.
- Perfectionists often overemphasize rules at the expense of underlying values, leading to policing behaviors that can be detrimental to workplace harmony.
- “Should” statements create unattainable universal expectations, leading to overwhelming pressure and feelings of inadequacy.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Ella Washington, Founder and CEO of Ellavate Solutions and author of Unspoken: A Guide to Cracking the Hidden Corporate Code. This always-relevant conversation addresses the importance of finding fulfillment in our work. Drawing from her personal experiences and extensive career, Dr. Washington reminds us that "work shouldn't suck" and shares insights from her book. It’s time to own your story, leverage your strengths, manage your weaknesses, and find your niche in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- More than a third of our lives are spent working, which means that organizations must prioritize creating work environments where their people can thrive.
- Understanding and embracing your personal identity and experiences is crucial for showing up authentically at work.
- Identifying activities that bring joy and align with your strengths can lead to greater career satisfaction.
- It's important to manage your weaknesses through structures or partnerships so that they don't hinder your success.
- Being aware of and informed about code-switching allows employees to make conscious choices about their authenticity in the workplace.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, expert Scott Mautz reveals the secret to exceptional leadership: mental strength. Mautz, an award-winning, best-selling author and dynamic speaker, discusses how regulating emotions, thoughts, and behaviors can transform leaders from ordinary to extraordinary. Tune in to learn about the six core mental muscles and hear practical insights from Mautz’s book, The Mentally Strong Leader. It’s time to harness this leadership superpower to elevate your workplace and inspire your team.
TAKEAWAYS
- Mental strength involves the ability to regulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to maintain productivity, even in challenging situations.
- Exceptional leaders develop six core mental muscles — fortitude, confidence, boldness, decision-making, goal-focus, and positive messaging — which help them navigate adversity and achieve success.
- Developing mental strength requires forming consistent habits, ultimately enhancing overall resilience and performance.
- Leaders should assess their mental strength and create a personalized training program to address “mental muscles” that don't come naturally to them.
- Avoiding Imposter Syndrome, seeking authenticity over approval, and managing negative inner chatter can help maintain self-acceptance and effective leadership.
- By clearly defining what constitutes a good or bad risk, bold leaders can encourage calculated risks that drive innovation and growth.
- Effective leaders maintain sharp focus by narrowing their attention to the most important tasks that align with previously set goals.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
The shift to remote work has drastically altered the professional landscape. While some employees have fully embraced remote work, others have adopted a hybrid model or returned to the office. Regardless of the setup, a distributed workforce can often lead to feelings of loneliness. If you’re a leader looking to help your employees navigate the isolation that comes with remote work, tune in and learn 5 strategies from host Brandon Laws and Nicole Blevins, HR Services Training Manager of Xenium HR.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the workplace, respect and candor go hand in hand. If you’re ready to build a culture of transparency, humanity, and collaboration, don’t miss this conversation with Kim Scott, CEO coach and author of Radical Respect and Radical Candor. In this episode, you’ll learn some practical tips for embracing individuality over conformity while promoting collaboration over coercion.
TAKEAWAYS
- A need for more awareness and action regarding the intersectionality of race and leadership in the workplace, in part, prompted Kim Scott to write Radical Respect.
- All people are deserving of respect and dignity based on their humanity.
- Radical Respect advocates for a culture that prioritizes collaboration and individuality.
- Bias, prejudice, and bullying can undermine respect in the workplace and must be addressed individually to mitigate their impact.
- If we want to foster a respectful workplace, we must be persistent and patient in efforts to change and improve.
- When we witness disrespect around us, we can and must intervene to support those targeted in various ways.
00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Shoutout 00:37 Introducing Kim Scott and Radical Respect 02:44 The Genesis of Radical Respect 12:16 The Framework for Success with Radical Respect 14:07 Understanding and Addressing Bias, Prejudice, and Bullying 19:47 Navigating Prejudice and Bullying: Strategies and Insights 22:10 Empowering the Quiet Ones: Enhancing Collaboration in Teams 26:17 Designing Fair Management Systems: Checks, Balances, and Bias Busting 34:45 Personal Reflections and the Power of Radical Respect 36:31 Closing Thoughts: Encouraging Action and Intervention GUEST AT A GLANCE
Kim Scott, author of Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better and Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity, is the Co-Founder of the company Radical Candor. She has extensive experience in leadership roles, having been a CEO coach at prominent tech companies like Dropbox and Twitter and a faculty member at Apple University. She also co-hosts the podcasts "Radical Candor" and "Radical Respect."
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
In this episode of 'Transform Your Workplace', host Brandon Laws engages with guest Ken Coleman, a prominent figure from Ramsey Solutions, to discuss the dynamics of modern workplaces, the essence of Generation Z, and the impact of effective leadership on talent management. Sponsored by Xenium HR, the episode shares the challenges and strategies related to HR, compliance, and building a thriving workplace. Ken shares insights on the hustle culture, the misconceptions about Gen Z's work ethic, and the potential benefits and realistic aspects of a four-day work week. Additionally, Ken emphasizes the importance of communication, adaptability, and leadership skills, discussing inflation's impact on younger generations and the significance of aligning personal values with the workplace. This conversation offers a comprehensive view on developing leadership strategies that cater to the needs of modern employees and fostering an environment conducive to growth, innovation, and satisfaction at work.
00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Shoutout 00:35 Excitement for Today's Episode with Ken Coleman 01:52 Diving Into the Modern Workplace and Gen Z 02:32 Debunking Myths About Hustle Culture 04:33 Exploring the Four-Day Workweek 08:53 Understanding Gen Z's Workplace Expectations 14:23 Addressing Inflation and Realistic Expectations 16:56 Aligning Mission, Vision, and Values with Employees 17:45 Exploring Brand Values and Marketing Strategies 18:41 The Importance of Job Descriptions and Company Culture 19:19 Navigating Career Paths and Employer-Employee Responsibilities 22:24 Developing Leadership and Adaptability in the Workplace 25:20 Embracing Change: Strategies and Mindsets for Adaptability 27:22 Career Development: Recommended Reads and Tools 30:07 The Get Clear Career Assessment: Understanding Your Professional Identity 33:31 Redefining Work: From Living to Work to Working to Live GUEST AT A GLANCE
Ken Coleman is a Ramsey Personality, bestselling author, career expert, speaker, and host of The Ken Coleman Show. A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Dr. Tracy Brower discusses the secrets to happiness at work in this podcast episode. She explores choosing joy, aligning personal values with professional life, and finding purpose and fulfillment in one's work. Brower shares practical strategies for building meaningful relationships, embracing growth opportunities, and practicing self-care to enhance happiness, even in challenging situations.
TAKEAWAYS
- Cultivate gratitude, contribute to others, and seek opportunities for creativity to foster happiness at work.
- Prioritize building authentic connections, mentorship, and affinity groups to nurture fulfilling relationships.
- Embrace professional courage, say "yes" to growth opportunities, and find purpose in how your work impacts others.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Tune in for a discussion revolving around Aflac’s most recent Workforces Report from its Chief HR Officer, Jeri Hawthorne. Learn about the challenges facing today’s intergenerational workforce and best practices for helping your people feel heard and supported amidst this ever-evolving workplace. Interested in ramping up your customer service? According to our guest, it starts with taking care of your people.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders must stress employee well-being and engagement to create a supportive work environment, as stressed employees are more likely to seek other opportunities.
- If employers seek employee feedback, they must be prepared to act on it, as disregarding employee input can lead to frustration and decreased productivity.
- Today, employees face ongoing challenges with financial wellness, so employers should address these concerns to maintain productivity and attendance.
- A comprehensive benefits package that addresses mental well-being can attract and retain talent.
- Gen Z employees are particularly drawn to companies with a purpose beyond profit, seeking organizations that align with their values and contribute positively to their communities.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Tune in for some shared insights into proactive planning, strategic positioning, and casting a compelling vision to your people. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws delves into the transformative power of vision with guest Tony Frazier, the Center Director of the Salem Kroc Center in Oregon. Throughout the episode, Frazier offers key strategies for fostering trust, maintaining the mission, empowering leadership, and making tough decisions. Be encouraged by this inspiring story of innovation during unprecedented and uncertain times.
TAKEAWAYS
- Frazier emphasized the importance of proactive planning in times of uncertainty rather than waiting for opportunities to pass.
- By casting a clear vision and rallying his team, Frazier successfully attracted funding, demonstrating the power of vision in mobilizing resources.
- Organizations can better navigate challenges by fostering trust, maintaining mission alignment, and empowering leadership at all levels.
- Developing leaders within the organization means encouraging delegation and providing opportunities for growth and learning.
- Emotional intelligence is an essential aspect of effective leadership, particularly in making tough decisions.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Join a timely discussion about emotional intelligence in the workplace with renowned psychologist and author Dr. Steven Stein. The episode delves into the vital role of EQ in shaping a positive and productive workforce. Amidst the evolving dynamics of remote and digital work environments, Dr. Stein emphasizes the heightened importance of EQ in the modern world of work, stressing its indispensable role in effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making. Listen in and learn how Dr. Stein's expertise provides a compelling narrative on harnessing emotional intelligence for workplace success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Emotional intelligence is critical in fostering effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making within organizations.
- Dr. Stein outlines three fundamental elements of emotional intelligence: awareness of one's own and others' emotions, the adept management of these emotions, and the strategic utilization of emotions to enhance focus and productivity.
- Amidst the pandemic, leaders exhibited decreased attentiveness to subordinates while displaying heightened assertiveness in directing tasks, which shed light on the importance of adapting emotional intelligence strategies to navigate challenges effectively.
- Emotional intelligence tends to increase with age, reflecting a natural progression towards enhanced impulse control, problem-solving abilities, and patience.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Sit down with industry expert Josh Durham, founder of Gamut Project Solutions, as he delves into the critical aspects of leadership in his Foundational Five program. This timely discussion focuses specifically on the aspect of personal leadership. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Durham emphasizes the power of making thoughtful decisions, delegating effectively, and fostering trust, collaboration, and transparency among those you lead.
TAKEAWAYS
- Effective leadership starts with leading oneself before leading others and focuses on self-awareness and personal development.
- Purpose-driven leadership stands in contrast with detrimental masked leadership, which prioritizes power and title over transparency and collaboration.
- Purpose-driven leadership fosters honest communication, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among team members, ultimately leading to higher performance and efficiency.
- Effective leaders should consider the ripple effects of decisions before jumping into initiatives.
- Delegation not only fosters personal growth but also empowers team members to grow and contribute.
- Leaders must prioritize tasks to make efficient use of their time.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
The modern workforce needs modern leaders, but what soft skills are key when it comes to effectively leading a team? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Nicole Blevins, the Senior HR Services Manager at Xenium HR, shares insights on the 5 key attributes that leaders must have to meet the evolving demands of today's dynamic workforce.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
It’s time to settle the debate: is DEI dead? Listen in as Dr. Sandra Upton, Founder and Chief DEI Strategist of Upton Consulting Group, unpacks key insights from her newly released book, Make it Last: A Roadmap and Practical Strategies for How to Do DEI Work. The discussion stresses the importance of data-driven strategies and prioritizing mental health in navigating the complexities of DEI work. With practical advice and actionable steps, Dr. Upton offers a comprehensive guide for organizations seeking to create lasting and meaningful change.
TAKEAWAYS
- Collective DEI success is achievable when approached with integrity and diligence.
- Misinformation and political influences contribute to the backlash against DEI efforts, so DEI leaders must dispel myths and educate individuals on the true objectives of these initiatives.
- Organizations should adopt data-driven approaches to DEI work, focusing on outcomes and measurable progress rather than mere activity.
- Organizational complacency is a major roadblock to DEI progress.
- Formal strategies to protect mental health, including establishing boundaries and clear expectations, are a critical part of any effective DEI initiative.
- Dr. Upton stresses the critical role of communication in DEI initiatives, highlighting the need for clear, consistent messaging from leadership.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Sit down with host Brandon Laws and guest Jon Krohn, Co-Founder & Chief Data Scientist of Nebula.io, to delve into the intersection of AI and HR technology. This episode’s discussion revolves around the recent surge in AI and its effectiveness in job searching, recruiting, and hiring the right fit. Been holding off on integrating AI tools into your HR strategy? It might just be the key to streamlining your HR operations and enhancing productivity.
TAKEAWAYS
- Deep learning, inspired by the human brain structure, is being applied in HR contexts to mitigate biases in decision-making.
- The recent surge in the effectiveness of artificial intelligence tools, including deep learning, is attributed to the availability of vast training data and increased computing power.
- Nebula.io offers a dynamic compensation benchmarking service, providing granular insights into salary trends and empowering HR professionals with actionable data.
- HR should be embracing AI tools as they have the potential to enhance productivity, save time and money, and alleviate administrative burdens.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
This ask-me-anything episode of Transform Your Workplace podcast features return guest Lacey Partpilo, Director of HR and Client Success at Xenium HR. She and host Brandon Laws discuss the invaluable and evolving role of HR in today’s business landscape. Lacey also dispels common misconceptions about HR and offers insights into fostering positive employee experiences and successful client interactions. Not sure if investing in HR is worth the price tag? Listen in and find out.
TAKEAWAYS
- As businesses recognize the strategic importance of HR, professionals in this field are now commonly seen as key decision-makers.
- The rise of hybrid remote work has added complexity to HR roles, expanding responsibilities to include aspects like compliance, inclusion, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
- Modern HR professionals must be "smarter, savvier, and true generalists" to navigate the multifaceted nature of their evolving roles.
- Meeting the diverse expectations of a multi-generational workforce is a challenge for HR.
- Today’s HR professionals are often advisors who present options and risks.
- Business owners should invest in HR for positive employee experiences, successful client interactions, and improved overall performance.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In the latest episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, guest Adam Weber offers insights into the evolving role of HR in response to changing workforce dynamics. The discussion covers how HR leaders can navigate evolving expectations, leverage data to substantiate initiatives, increase engagement, and foster psychological safety in the workplace. Tune in for fresh takes on navigating contemporary HR challenges and leading with authenticity.
TAKEAWAYS
- The COVID pandemic, social unrest, and generational values have dramatically reshaped HR.
- Today’s workplace places a growing emphasis on authentic leadership and company purpose.
- HR leaders face escalating challenges, with expectations outpacing budgets and resources, prompting the need for a reimagination of HR's role within organizations.
- Metrics for collective employee performance, quantifiable engagement aligned with company goals, and vigilance against regrettable turnover are essential components of HR's wheelhouse.
- In navigating HR challenges, our guest advocates for backing initiatives with data and fostering psychological safety to create an atmosphere where real and challenging conversations can thrive.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws 📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
A recent Wall Street Journal article discussed how employees are no longer quitting at high rates. Guest Nicole Blevins unpacks this trend. A survey found 73% of workers now plan to stay at their jobs, up 12% from last year. Blevins notes some attrition brings new ideas and enables internal promotion. However, stagnation can occur if no one leaves. She advises that with low attrition, organizations should focus on performance management and career development to hold people accountable and continue growing top talent.
TAKEAWAYS
- Recent survey shows 73% of employees now plan to stay at their jobs, up 12% from last year
- Some attrition is healthy for bringing in new ideas and enabling internal promotion
- With low attrition, organizations should focus on performance management and career development to hold people accountable and continue growing top talent
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
Tune in as host Brandon Laws and guest CEO Coach Brad Zimmerman discuss the transformative power of purpose. Our guest explores ideas from his recently published book, The Great Engagement, including vulnerability, effective leadership coaching, and the role of emotions in the workplace. Overall, the episode provides insights into fostering an exceptional workplace culture by aligning individual aspirations with collective purpose.
TAKEAWAYS
- This episode highlights the transformative impact of aligning individual aspirations and organizational purpose.
- Leaders should be connecting daily activities, meetings, and initiatives to the broader organizational purpose, ensuring that each employee’s aspirations contribute to the company’s collective goals.
- Fostering a sense of purpose among employees counteracts disengagement.
- A purpose-oriented culture helps employees stay focused on fulfilling others rather than protecting themselves.
- Workplace vulnerability includes the constructive sharing of concerns and fears, not the unproductive and destructive expression of emotions.
- Leaders should prioritize growing their people's effectiveness, coaching them, and empowering them to accomplish tasks, ultimately contributing to a thriving workplace culture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode, Brandon Laws and Nicole Blevins discuss workplace trends to watch in 2024 according to a Gallup article. They talk about the ongoing high levels of employee stress, the erosion of organizational mission and purpose, declining leadership trust, manager burnout, the need for long-term hybrid work strategies, and the importance of fostering connection to combat isolation.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employee stress is at record highs and engagement is slowly recovering.
- Organizations need long-term hybrid work strategies to bridge the gap between employer and employee preferences.
- Fostering human connection is important to combat isolation in an increasingly remote/hybrid work environment.
In the most recent installment of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws talks with Sarah Adler, the CEO and Founder of Wave. The discussion revolves around the recent decline in mental well-being, heightened by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sarah shares valuable perspectives on how leaders can navigate and respond to the changing needs of employees in today's work environment. The episode provides a deep dive into key workplace issues such as screen time, communication strategies, generational differences, and effective leadership practices, all within the context of mental health. Tune in to gain insights into the pressing matters shaping modern business.
TAKEAWAYS
- The recent decline in mental well-being can be attributed to both pre-existing personal and workplace trends and challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Leaders must adapt to evolving employee needs in the modern workplace, especially within the context of mental health.
- Digital Natives are accustomed to a new type of workplace communication, often putting them at odds with those from older generations.
- Employers must recognize and address the higher incidence rates of mental health issues among Digital Natives.
- Proactive management approaches, such as setting clear expectations and understanding communication styles, foster a positive and supportive workplace environment.
Learn more about Xenium’s Learning & Development Program
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, our host sits down with corporate wellness expert and speaker Kristel Bauer. The two discuss Kristel’s 2021 TED Talk on work-life balance amidst COVID-19 and the profound impact of the pandemic on the modern workplace. From finding flexibility to being present both on the job and at home, tune in for valuable tips for navigating the challenges of the modern workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- The COVID-19 pandemic prompted businesses to reassess their priorities, challenges, and values.
- In a hybrid workplace model, optimizing communication is crucial to fostering trust.
- The pandemic has led to a heightened awareness of mental health in which companies are urged to reassess their approaches and actively support employees facing challenges.
- Rituals or practices such as walks or clothing changes can help people smooth out the transition between work and home life.
- Leaders who offer workplace flexibility allow employees to fine-tune their practices for self-support.
- Leaders must create a safe space for employees to share concerns and address challenges.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this bonus episode, Nicole Blevins discusses the concept of "catfishing" employers who misrepresent jobs and company culture to candidates during the hiring process. This leads to disappointment and distrust when the reality doesn't match up. She shares a personal anecdote of friends calling her about mismatching expectations and work conditions. The key takeaways are: employers should accurately portray roles and culture to align candidate expectations, provide transparent communication, and focus on improving internal culture and employer branding consistency.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employers sometimes "catfish" candidates by misrepresenting jobs and culture during hiring. This leads to disappointment when reality doesn't match up.
- Transparent communication and accurately portraying roles and culture is key to setting proper candidate expectations.
- Employers should focus first on improving internal culture consistency before external employer branding and recruitment marketing efforts.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws talks with Josh Merrill, the CEO and Founder of Confirm, an innovative people platform utilizing Organizational Network Analysis (ONA) for performance reviews. Josh shares the transformative journey of integrating this new methodology into performance evaluations. Tune in to learn the truth about your distribution of talent, the importance of eliminating bias in performance reviews, and how to use ONA to get a pulse on your company’s top talent.
TAKEAWAYS
- Talent distribution follows a power law rather than the commonly assumed bell curve which means that a few employees are creating a disproportionate impact.
- Since 60% of manager ratings are influenced by biases, businesses should adopt ONA to provide a more objective evaluation that focuses on network dynamics.
- ONA, like the wisdom of the crowd, provides accurate insights by considering collective perspectives.
- Business leaders should implement periodic evaluations to identify impactful employees and address concerns promptly.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, bestselling author Daniel Strode provides valuable insights into fostering corporate culture and navigating the pace of change in the modern workplace. He shares practical tips from his book, The Culture Advantage, highlighting the role of culture in driving innovation, the significance of a growth mindset in leadership, and the importance of putting your people first.
TAKEAWAYS
- Culture is "the way we do things around here, especially when no one is looking or listening."
- The rapid change in the modern workplace is driven by societal and technological shifts, making adaptation crucial for any business’s survival.
- It's not just about the amount of money, time, or resources a company has, but rather the culture of innovation that sets successful companies apart.
- Building a culture that encourages and supports innovation is key to staying competitive.
- Changing a company's culture is a process that requires both immediate action and patience.
- Effective leaders listen and guide employees to find their own answers, which fosters psychological safety and contributes to a growth mindset within the company.
- Leading by example is a key driver for cultural change within a company.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. Steven Rogelberg, the Chancellor's Professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Dr. Rogelberg shares insights from his book, Glad We Met: The Art and Science of 1:1 Meetings, exploring topics such as the managerial role in effective 1:1s, the wide-ranging benefits, and practical implementation strategies for this foundational aspect of effective leadership.
TAKEAWAYS
- In his book, Glad We Met: The Art and Science of 1:1 Meetings, Dr. Rogelberg emphasizes the transformative potential of one-on-one meetings in organizations and for leaders.
- While the agenda should be driven by the employee, managers play a vital role in creating an infrastructure to ensure the effectiveness of 1:1s.
- 1:1 meetings improve employee engagement, retention, team performance, and contribution to inclusion efforts.
- The blueprint for effective 1:1s focuses on building agendas, involving the direct report, and maintaining continuity across meetings to tell the story of the employee's progress.
- For managers handling a large number of employees, the episode suggests practical strategies to focus on quality not quantity — adjusting meeting frequency, reducing time per meeting, and leveraging asynchronous documents for follow-through.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws catches up with Josh Durham, Founder of Gamut Project Solutions and a veteran in the construction scene. Drawing from his extensive experience managing billion-dollar projects for over seventeen years, Josh shares insights on genuinely exchanging thoughts and ideas versus falling for the illusion of communication. The episode doesn't just talk the talk — it serves up practical strategies to amp up your professional communication. Tune in if you're serious about boosting this crucial workplace skill.
TAKEAWAYS
- All humans share an inherent desire for survival, belonging, and personal growth.
- Fear triggers defensive reactions, hindering direct and clear communication.
- Active listening is the cornerstone of quality communication, and listening with empathy is the key to fostering understanding.
- Leaders must cultivate a workplace where employees feel psychologically safe to voice concerns and ideas, and doing so minimizes explosive conversations and encourages open dialogue.
- “Blame language” triggers defensive reactions, hindering the recipient's ability to absorb the message.
- Disagreements can offer us opportunities to self-reflect and reconsider our position.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, host Brandon Laws interviews Nicole Blevins about the importance of making meaningful connections with coworkers, especially in remote or hybrid work environments. They discuss how transactional don't foster quality relationships. Instead, being vulnerable and authentic, giving your full attention, and actively listening help create trusting bonds that allow for better collaboration, communication, and ability to handle conflicts.
TAKEAWAYS
- With the shift to hybrid/remote work, employees lose the “water cooler moments” for making connections and must be more intentional about relationship-building. This requires vulnerability, active listening without distractions, and making space for deeper conversations.
- Employers play a role in enabling connections by allowing small talk time in meetings, organizing activities like virtual lunches or book clubs, supporting employee resource groups, and providing questions to spark meaningful dialogue.
- High-quality connections build trust critical for working together effectively, allowing people to be more productive, innovative, and engaged.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
This episode of Transform Your Workplace features a deep dive into insights from Curtis Bateman’s co-authored book, Change: How to Turn Uncertainty into Opportunity. The episode explores the most common reactions to change — Move, Minimize, Wait, Resist, and Quit — and the leader’s role in understanding and managing these reactions as they move forward. Don’t miss this timely discussion on how leaders can spearhead positive change in a constantly evolving workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Move, Minimize, Wait, Resist, and Quit are all natural and common reactions to change in the workplace.
- Leaders must recognize and manage these diverse reactions instead of moving forward without employee buy-in.
- Each reaction has its strengths and limitations, and leaders can effectively tap into and leverage the strengths during times of change.
- A well-crafted case for change facilitates alignment and engagement throughout the organization.
- Leaders need to discern where their team members are in their journey through change and tailor their approach accordingly, and this requires a deep understanding of people's feelings, thoughts, and actions in the midst of change.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, guest Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks, shares insights into the power of play. And while we may think of play time as exclusively for kids, adults can also learn a lot about themselves and others through play. Tune in to find out how our guest was inspired to champion the cause of play and how play can make a difference in your relationships, your perspective, and ultimately, your business.
TAKEAWAYS
- While it's evident that kids benefit from play, adults can also learn valuable lessons through play in the areas of team building, socialization, and overall personal development.
- Play is a crucial avenue for learning teamwork, curiosity, and conflict resolution.
- Adults, especially leaders, should actively participate in play to break down barriers and build trust in the workplace.
- Opportunities for play cannot be forced; instead, players should be invited to participate of their own accord.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this bonus episode of the Transform your Workplace podcast, we're joined by returning guest Nicole Blevins. Nicole and Brandon discuss pay transparency and how being open about compensation can reduce workplace drama and help employees focus on their jobs instead of worrying about what others make. They talk about regularly reviewing market data to keep pay structures current, addressing pay compression when needed, and being thoughtful about overall compensation philosophy. Consistency, fairness, and clear communication are key.
TAKEAWAYS
- Pay transparency reduces drama so employees can focus on work instead of compensation comparisons
- Regularly review compensation data to keep pay structures competitive and address compression
- Clearly communicate comp strategy so employees understand philosophy and consistency
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
There’s no better time than the present to talk about AI. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, guest Jennifer Dulski, CEO of Rising Team, offers insights on the recent and transformative role of AI in the modern workplace. Jennifer shares her firsthand experiences, emphasizing how AI, when combined with human passion and connection, becomes a powerful tool in shaping compelling visions and driving business success. Although it can be scary to embark on the unknown, embracing AI today is key to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape.
TAKEAWAYS
- AI, when combined with human passion, can be an enormous asset in shaping a compelling vision.
- While AI excels in various tasks, leaders must focus on what AI can’t do: foster empathy, deep trust, and connection with their teams.
- Leaders don't need to be tech-savvy to leverage AI; they just need to be trained on prompting.
- AI's ability to suggest alternatives by considering a vast amount of data can be invaluable in decision-making.
- While AI may replace some jobs, it will also create new opportunities in the workplace.
- Leaders must embrace AI now to stay competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
We’re all marketers at heart — at least, we hope to be when it comes to trying to communicate a clear message. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with Ben Guttmann, marketing expert and author, to discuss the why and the how of effective communication. Tune in to learn how to reduce friction, strike out the fluff, and clarify your message from the author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win.
TAKEAWAYS
- Simplicity in messaging is not just about minimalism but minimizing friction for easy understanding.
- Easy-to-understand messages create positive associations, fostering trust, likability, and higher engagement.
- Message senders and receivers face internal and external battles against simplicity.
- Good communicators eliminate “friction” to prevent receivers from getting distracted from the message.
- Complicated messaging is selfish, cowardly, and dangerous.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Effective communication extends beyond our words. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws is joined by Jane Hanson, an Emmy award-winning television journalist and communication coach. The two unravel the secrets to good communication, from clarity and body language to the challenges of conveying your message via technology. Tune in to learn how you can learn how to communicate better in this ever-evolving world of work.
TAKEAWAYS
- In the era of remote work and virtual meetings, we're essentially all “on TV,” which has an obvious impact on our energy, appearance, and the need for succinct communication.
- Speakers are faced with the challenge of maintaining engagement in a world filled with overstimulation, with the average audience’s attention span at about eight seconds.
- Listen actively and ask questions for clarity, even if you're afraid of looking uninformed.
- Focus on improving one aspect of your communication at a time, gradually enhancing your overall ability to convey your message to others.
- Great leaders ask questions, seek perceptions from others, and understand the importance of humility in effective leadership.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws explores the Q2 2023 CEO Confidence Index Report with Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer at Vistage Worldwide. The report reveals insights into the economic sentiments of small and midsized business leaders. Before drafting your strategic plans and casting vision to your people, tune in to see what may be in store for 2024 and 2025.
TAKEAWAYS
- Combining CEO sentiment with economic data enables informed decision-making, positioning businesses for growth.
- Post-pandemic dynamics have created a feeling of uncertainty in the workplace.
- AI will augment, not replace, human workers, and it’s crucial for retention in the modern workforce.
- While some industries face challenges, the overall sentiment indicates a soft landing in 2024 with optimism for growth in 2025 and beyond.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Don't let vague promises, misunderstandings, or misplaced risks hinder the success of your business. Tune into the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, where host Brandon Laws sits down with returning guest Josh Durham to take a deep dive into one core principle in the Foundational Five: “Agreements.” Get some fresh perspective on what it takes to make sure everyone is on the same page — from the initial stages of a project all the way through to its successful completion.
TAKEAWAYS
- Agreements serve as the foundation for the success of any business, and understanding and meeting these agreements is crucial for success in leadership and collaboration.
- Mutual understanding, clarity, communication, and well-defined roles and responsibilities are key to a successful agreement.
- In legal contracts, ambiguous language can lead to misunderstandings, so clarity is important from the outset.
- Collaborators on both sides of a contract have a great responsibility in creating an agreement, but they also have a great responsibility in understanding its terms.
- Risks in agreements should be assigned to the right party to avoid problems down the road, and upfront clarity can save time and build momentum for future projects.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Tune into an eye-opening episode of Transform Your Workplace as host Brandon Laws sits down with Scott Cawood, the CEO of WorldatWork. Their discussion revolves around the recent and profound shift from a production-based to a consumption-based economy. Scott sheds light on the implications of this transition and what this means for businesses, leaders, and employees. One thing’s for sure — as the workplace undergoes this transformative evolution, it’s clear that people are the linchpin to an organization's success. Listen in to learn how you can give your people a voice as valued stakeholders in your company.
TAKEAWAYS
- The world of work has shifted from a production-based model to a consumption-based one, where the focus is on the consumption of information, skills, and products.
- Employees should no longer be viewed as mere workers but as full human beings, and their engagement and well-being play a vital role in any organization's success.
- Communication and transparency are essential for helping employees navigate complex processes such as promotions, compensation, and rewards.
- CEOs aren’t the only ones who want to leave a legacy; most people want to make an impact with their work.
- To enhance an organization's overall success, leaders must evaluate the equity of the employee experience and elevate employees to a higher level as stakeholders.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In a world where organizations are striving to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, this episode of Transform Your Workplace explores why it’s essential for leaders to acknowledge and address disparities when it comes to gender. Guests Kelsey Pytlik and Rachel Bauer of Gild Collective shed light on the fact that women are still leaving companies at alarming rates post-pandemic, primarily due to a lack of supportive workplace practices and policies after recruitment. Tune in and learn more about how you can provide adequate support to retain your top female talent.
TAKEAWAYS
- Empathy is a critical soft skill for driving change, interrupting bias, and implementing equitable workplace systems.
- While many companies initially embraced diversity and inclusion efforts, resistance and a desire to return to the status quo can hinder their progress.
- Acknowledging and addressing personal biases is challenging, but awareness can lead to meaningful change.
- Women face unequal treatment at work, requiring a shift in how organizations address these disparities.
- Because diverse perspectives drive innovation, companies with greater gender and ethnic diversity tend to outperform their competitors.
- Organizations should avoid one-size-fits-all approaches and instead tailor gender equity initiatives to their specific needs.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, occupational therapist Sheela Ivlev shares insights into supporting neurodivergent employees in the workplace. As companies bring workers back into the office, it's important to understand the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals and foster an inclusive environment. Sheela provides practical tips for accommodations, communication strategies, using tech tools, and more to help neurodivergent employees thrive.
TAKEAWAYS
- Defining neurodivergence and why it's Important for leaders to understand
- Challenges neurodivergent employees face coming back to the workplace
- Accommodations like sensory-friendly spaces, communication modes, and schedule flexibility
- Inclusive strategies leaders and peers can adopt to support neurodivergent coworkers
- How remote work enables focus for neurodivergent employees
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this insightful episode, Brandon Laws dives into the capabilities and ethical considerations of using generative AI tools like ChatGPT in HR. Learn how to harness AI as a creative aid and productivity booster without compromising standards. Discover tips on prompt engineering, implementing guardrails, and maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
TAKEAWAYS
- Prompt engineering techniques to get the most out of AI tools
- Using AI to assist with mundane tasks and boost productivity
- Implementing organizational policies and guardrails for responsible AI use
- Managing risks like bias and misinformation while leveraging AI's advantages
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Intrigued by the paradox of leading with vulnerability? Tune into this fascinating podcast with Jacob Morgan.
Morgan shares an emotional story of how suppressing emotions led him to experience panic attacks. He makes a thoughtful case that vulnerability differs for leadership roles and requires a blend of openness and competence.
You'll come away with insightful perspectives as Morgan outlines eight attributes leaders need to unlock the power of vulnerability. He also provides practical tips for leaders becoming more vulnerable, emphasizing the intention behind what you share.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders must combine vulnerability with demonstrated leadership competence - you can't just be vulnerable without the leadership piece.
- There are 8 attributes leaders need: 3 for leadership (competence, self-confidence, motivation) and 5 for vulnerability (integrity, authenticity, empathy, self-compassion, self-awareness).
- Leading with vulnerability improves innovation, trust, engagement, and perceptions of leadership quality. Vulnerability is critical for leaders in today's complex, rapidly changing environment.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Our latest episode features Erica Keswin, a workplace strategist and bestselling author, and a discussion revolving around the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world of work. Erica talks about her latest book, The Retention Revolution, and how leaders must rethink their battle stance in the War for Talent if they want to stay competitive. Ultimately, the key to retaining talent lies in offering growth opportunities, empathetic leadership, flexibility, and — surprisingly — maintaining an open door even when employees choose to move on.
TAKEAWAYS
- The pandemic accelerated the need for a more humane approach to work, making leaders more empathetic and vulnerable.
- Erica Keswin’s book, The Retention Revolution, explores how leaders can adapt to retain employees in the changing work landscape.
- In the modern work environment, people expect to change jobs frequently, so companies must focus on intentional onboarding and treating employees well.
- The definition of "work" is evolving, and companies need to find a balance between technology and human connection.
- To retain employees, companies should offer growth opportunities, trained empathetic managers, flexibility, and open doors even if employees decide to leave.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Katarina Polonska, a transformational connection coach, discusses the misconceptions surrounding some of the top trending topics in the workplace: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She explains how the language we use can either help or hinder this important conversation. Listen in to get fresh insights into the crucial relationship between effective inclusive practices and engagement among your people.
TAKEAWAYS
- Inclusion is about having involvement and feeling that you're actually empowered to be involved, which if we distill even further, is really about engagement.
- To create an inclusive environment, one must create a sense of belonging and psychological safety.
- The inclusion-engagement equation naturally leads to higher retention, better productivity, greater innovation, and higher revenue.
- There has to be something around bringing in the very techniques of inclusion and belonging if we want to foster inclusion and belonging, and that means including the people we speak to and the people who are speaking about it.
- When it comes to opening up a conversation around D&I, leaders must bring empathy, listen, validate, and try to understand the struggles of their people.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Join Xenium guests Annie, Director of HR Services, and Lacey, Sr. Director of Client Success, in this week's bonus episode all about employee performance. We discuss mentorship, top performers, and the ripple effect of low performers on your entire workforce.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Get an eye-opening look into the construction industry with recent guest and Gamut Project Solutions founder Josh Durham. Learn all about Gamut’s Foundational Five series and other timely leadership advice, all taken from Josh’s successes and failures over his many years in construction project management. Tune in for insight into relationships, negotiation strategies, empathy, and the need for inclusivity and psychological safety in the construction industry and beyond.
TAKEAWAYS
- Gamut Project Solutions offers a program called the Foundational Five, which provides practical tools and focuses on leadership, relationships, and communication.
- The five guiding principles are agreements, communication, leadership, agency, and relationships.
- Employees are willing to follow leaders who compromise, value relationships, and communicate effectively.
- When people feel psychologically safe, distractions decrease, and productivity increases.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Melanie Langsett from Deloitte discusses the company's innovative approach to employee well-being. Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all plans, Deloitte's benefits are tailored to meet individual needs. Tune in and learn how Deloitte gets creative when it comes to benefit offerings and leave programs, and get insight into how listening and supporting your people translates to productivity and retention.
TAKEAWAYS
- Deloitte offers family leave programs that extend beyond traditional parental leave, recognizing that employees have various caregiving responsibilities.
- The key to Deloitte's approach is creating space for employees to provide input without fear of repercussions and actively listening to employees when creating their rewards programs and well-being initiatives.
- Deloitte prioritizes mental well-being, understanding that a stressed or distracted employee cannot perform at his or her best.
- Every workforce is unique, and organizations should tailor their well-being initiatives to their specific needs and business objectives.
- Guest Melanie Langsett stresses the importance of leadership’s commitment to creating a culture of well-being, as it's the foundation upon which all well-being programs are built.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Jennifer Watson, a seasoned Human Resources expert, shares her remarkable journey from the classroom to HR. After her time in education, Jennifer's career spans a decade at a Fortune 100 retailer, followed by leading an HR department in a small business during the COVID pandemic. Jennifer emphasizes that, in the ever-changing landscape of HR, understanding what employees truly want and finding ways to support their needs are paramount to real success. Listen in to learn all about the power of saying yes to new opportunities, building strong relationships, and taking a proactive approach to HR.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, host Brandon Laws welcomes Carolyn Swora, a trauma-informed leadership and culture consultant and the author of Evolve: The Path to Trauma-Informed Leadership. The two discuss Carolyn’s personal journey from navigating her husband’s terminal kidney cancer to her eventual path to healing. Listen in to learn the impact of trauma in the workplace and how leaders can adopt more compassionate and human-centered approaches toward their people.
TAKEAWAYS
- Being attuned to others' experiences and valuing their perspectives is at the core of self-awareness and leadership.
- The foundation of leadership lies in awareness and the ability to navigate emotional complexities in a noisy world.
- The terms "care" and "trauma" aren’t often used in the corporate context, but the collective trauma experienced during the pandemic has brought these concepts to the forefront, making it crucial for workplaces to acknowledge and address them.
- Leaders must understand trauma, its effects, and how they can foster a sense of belonging by honoring the diverse experiences of their team members.
- Evolved leaders recognize the interconnectedness of safety, authenticity, and consistency.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Eimear Marrinan, VP of Culture & ESG at HubSpot, discusses the company’s post-pandemic transition to a successful hybrid work model. Eimear explains data motivated them to give their people the flexibility of choosing whether to work from home, in the office, or a hybrid of the two — an unconventional approach even in today’s changing business landscape. Listen in to learn about their successes, challenges, and Eimear’s vision for the future of hybrid work.
Sign up for the What People Want from Work Survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, we tackle the tricky topic of negotiation. According to guest Kelli Thompson, whether you’re negotiating pay, benefits, workplace location, or PTO, “success loves clarity,” both on the side of the employee and the employee. Learn about acceptable pay ranges for your role, the importance of proper negotiation from the outset, and how to present your case.
TAKEAWAYS
- Proper negotiation from the outset has a lasting impact on the financial landscape of a career.
- A common misconception is that it’s unprofessional or rude to ask for more money; however, appropriate pay is beneficial for not only the employee but the employer as well.
- Since organizations make decisions based on market equity, skills, talents, and experience, employees must base their negotiation approach on these factors.
- Negotiation isn’t just about pay — employees can negotiate when it comes to PTO, tuition, workplace location, benefits, and more.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In the white collar world, the skills and lessons that make us professionally successful aren’t designed to help us lead happy, balanced lives. But how can we fill in these learning gaps this late in the game? According to recent guest Charles Price, it’s all about rewiring our minds and staying present. Listen in to some stories and tips about how to rewire your relationship with yourself and your career for authentic balance and contentment.
TAKEAWAYS
- Not only are there gaps in our professional training, but in many ways, these lessons can steer us away from the things that we need to live contented and balanced lives.
- Students are taught to analyze the past and strategize for the future but never to live in the present.
- We tend to minimize all of our wins and successes while, at the same time, we obsess about our defeats and mistakes, so our “bank balance” inevitably becomes radically overdrawn.
- So many people say that their motivation is money, a promotion, a job, a position, or this recognition, but that doesn’t seem to work like finding a motivation that is “bigger than yourself.”
- We have power over what our inner voices say to us, but we often don't exercise that power.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, we welcome back frequent guest and Xenium Employee Nicole Blevins to discuss HR of 2023. We discuss growing trends of pay transparency, employee benefits, and the rise of remote work or "work from anywhere" culture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, host Brandon Laws interviews David Dodson, an accomplished author and successful entrepreneur. David shares insights from his book, The Manager's Handbook, which provides a comprehensive blueprint for effective management, offering practical and data-driven strategies for hiring, onboarding, and day-to-day leadership. The episode provides valuable insights for managers seeking to optimize team performance and achieve business success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Managers must move away from hiring based on gut feelings and move toward hiring based on outcomes.
- In the first one hundred days, the connective tissue is built between the employee and the company, so proper leadership during this initial time is critical to retention.
- Instant performance management with radical candor is essential in developing your people and building trust.
- The exit interview is a secret weapon for greater understanding and development of the manager’s strengths and weaknesses, and it must be conducted effectively by someone who is not the direct report.
- Often, we can confuse busyness with progress — we must ask ourselves whether we’re moving the company forward or just “being busy.”
Sign up for the annual What People Want from Work Survey by Aug 31: https://xeniumhr.com/what-people-want-from-work/
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Sit down with the Chief Inspirational Officer of Pacific Perks, Natalie Fairchild, in this fun and fresh episode of Transform Your Workplace. Natalie’s unique business, Pacific Perks, is an espresso bar catering business with an emphasis on workplace flexibility, allowing employees to have autonomy over their roles and schedules. Natalie shares stories of employees with diverse backgrounds who have found success and fulfillment at Pacific Perks and talks about the challenges and victories of making the business work despite such unorthodox methods. Listen in and get inspired by this unique and thriving business.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, guest host Lacey Partipilo is joined by Emily Etherington, the recipient of the Xenium Volunteer Award, to delve into the importance of volunteer programs in the workplace. Emily, who spearheaded the development of the volunteer program at Xenium, shares her insights and experiences in coordinating community service and volunteer events for the organization and its clients. Discover the significant impact volunteering can have on employee engagement, mental well-being, and overall workplace satisfaction.
Interested in learning more? Connect with Emily on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-etherington-31013328/
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Struggling to keep top talent in today’s modern workplace? It’s not as complicated as you might think. According to recent guest Joe Mull, author of Employalty, employers must make a commitment to three essential aspects of a “destination” workplace: providing the ideal job, prioritizing meaningful work, and being a great boss. Simple yet powerful, these focus areas are the key to lasting retention. Listen in and learn how you can take real steps to ignite commitment and loyalty among your people.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employalty is a portmanteau of the words “employer,” “loyalty,” and “humanity.”
- Social science research shows that organizations can attract and retain dedicated employees by focusing on three key areas: “ideal job,” “meaningful work,” and “great boss.”
- Today’s employees are recalibrating the type of work they want to do and how that work fits into their lives.
- Business owners and leaders need to embrace a mindset shift — that there is no staffing shortage, but rather that there is a “great jobs” shortage.
- People generally do a great job when they believe they have a great job.
- The ideal job is made up of compensation, workload, and flexibility.
- People believe that their work is meaningful if they find purpose, use their strengths, and experience belonging.
- This “great boss” factor is made up of three dimensions: trust, coaching, and advocacy.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
This podcast episode discusses "radical candor," a framework for giving direct and empathetic feedback to build trust and foster a positive work environment. It emphasizes giving feedback frequently, rather than waiting for annual reviews and promotes personal and professional growth in feedback-giving. The hosts share personal experiences and stress the importance of context, questions, and co-creating solutions in feedback conversations.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Sit down with Malorie Nicole, a transformational executive coach, as she discusses the challenges that today’s leaders face in achieving personal business alignment. Malorie highlights the importance of scaling a company by keeping the development and well-being of your people at the forefront. And when it comes to boosting team performance, she talks about how CEOs must start with themselves. If you’re a leader of people, you don’t want to miss this conversation on how to create real and lasting change for your team.
TAKEAWAYS
- A significant challenge facing today’s leaders is achieving personal business alignment, or the harmony between an individual's personal values, passions, and goals and the goals and direction of their business.
- Scaling a business is largely dependent on the development of people.
- Post-pandemic, people don't just want a place to work but rather a place where they feel connection and autonomy.
- When you’re feeling “stuck,” it usually means you forgot to give yourself permission to do something — to change, to let go, or to pivot.
- Top-performing CEOs make strategic decisions instead of micromanaging daily tasks.
- Emotional intelligence is critical if CEOs want to experience mental freedom, better performance, and stronger team culture.
Sit down with recent guest Phil Simon, technology and collaboration expert and author of The Nine: The Tectonic Forces Shaping the Workplace, for a discussion relevant to virtually every business leader in today’s changing workplace. Get insight into worker engagement and productivity, burnout, the labor market imbalance, the power of AI, and the role of blockchain in creating boundaries amidst chaos. This is one eye-opening conversation that you don’t want to miss.
TAKEAWAYS
- The workplace is undergoing significant transformation and won't revert to its pre-pandemic state.
- Nine transformative forces are shaping the modern workplace.
- One hypothesis about a drop in workplace productivity is its correlation with a forced return to work.
- A leading cause of burnout is technology and collaboration overload.
- Management shouldn’t dismiss new tools, like Generative AI, just because of their disadvantages, but they should also be wary of leaning too heavily upon them.
- Blockchain seems to be the best safeguard against complete chaos when it comes to the dangers of Generative AI.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Our latest bonus episode of Transform Your Workplace with Nicole Blevins, where we discuss mentorships. Nicole shares her experience with formal and informal mentor relationships and how to make the most of them. Listen in as we discuss the importance of being prepared as a mentee and how to drive the relationship forward. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation!
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
SHOW NOTES
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Eli Blackman, the Co-Founder and CEO of Field Day, discusses his career journey and the importance of community engagement in the workplace. He shares how his experience at Elemental, a small startup later acquired by Amazon, inspired him to start Field Day, a program that connects employees with volunteering opportunities at local nonprofits. Give this episode a listen, and learn how volunteering can have a positive impact on your team’s morale, job satisfaction, and company culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- Creating a culture of giving back to local nonprofits boosts employee morale, job satisfaction, and retention.
- Recognizing the value of this outlet for employees, Eli Blackman co-founded Field Day, aiming to fill the gap in the market for tools that empower companies and employees to participate in volunteer activities together.
- Volunteering shouldn’t be forced; instead, once employees participate of their own accord, they make connections that inspire and spur them to continue.
- Leaders must address the challenge of relationship-building among their hybrid workforce, and one way to do so is through volunteering initiatives.
- 80% of employees who participate in volunteer events see a decrease in stress and report an improvement in mental health.
- Companies that integrate corporate social responsibility into their culture see a 50% decrease in turnover.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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In this episode, we talk to Michelle about career pathing and how employees can own their career growth. Michelle shares her journey from customer service to HR and how she landed her current role as an HR business partner. We also discuss the benefits of career pathing programs for employers and metrics to measure success.
Tune in to learn more about career pathing and how to empower your employees to take control of their career growth.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
According to recent guest, Shane Kovalsky, Co-Founder and CEO of Glue, meaningful relationships are the lynchpin for authentic employee engagement. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, we take a closer look at the challenges of connecting with others when it comes to the “distributed” workplace. Learn how to gain insight into employee sentiment and make data-informed decisions regarding connection.
TAKEAWAYS
- If you’re not intentional about fostering a sense of belonging — if you leave it to chance — it won’t happen.
- Employee surveys have significant limitations as employees’ sentiments change quickly and the surveys offer only a glimpse at one “point in time.”
- The big difference between using observability and input data versus survey data is it allows leaders to see early indicators of disengagement and be proactive about solutions.
- Making meaningful connection is about converting similarity into familiarity.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Sit down with Hareta McMullin, founder of Third Space People, and dive into a discussion on the misconceptions and challenges facing HR and what it takes to transform the employee experience. It’s time to reject outdated approaches to HR and take real steps toward building trust with the people you lead.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employees often see HR professionals as rule-loving and unapproachable people who are disconnected from the workforce.
- By managing the perception gap and addressing employee needs, HR professionals can create an environment where people willingly share concerns, enabling them to address challenges and retain valuable talent.
- Policies and procedures are important, but if we're leading the employee experience with that, we're telling our people that we don't trust them from the outset.
- We need to take a serious look at how HR policies and procedures are embedded in and support the culture.
- When we trust, involve, and empower leaders, changes can be rolled out successfully.
- To understand your priorities, you need to speak with your people.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
This week's podcast guest host Lacey Partipilo sits down with Xenium employee Annie Oxenfeld to discuss the topic of workplace flexibility and its importance in retaining employees. They touch on workplace flexibility, from shift schedules to fully remote work or a four-day workweek. This episode also addresses common concerns and misconceptions employers may have about implementing flexible work arrangements, such as productivity, logistics, availability, and fairness. They agree the key ingredient to workplace flexibility is building a culture of trust.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, renowned performance psychologist Jim Loehr delves into the crucial topic of decision-making, a unique capability of our species that allows us to shape the direction of our lives. His book, Wise Decisions, offers a research-based approach to intentional decision-making, empowering readers to enhance their own abilities and teach others. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for making wise decisions that can positively impact your future.
TAKEAWAYS
- Decision-making is a unique feature of our species, as humans have the ability to pause between stimulus and response and consciously choose the direction of their lives.
- Most of our daily decisions are made without any intentional thought.
- Oftentimes, small decisions often become the greatest levers for the big decisions that will change the trajectory of our lives.
- Your inner voice, not your public voice, reflects your true perspective and approach on all decisions.
- The pause between the stimulus and response is the most sacred space we have as human beings.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode, Nicole Blevins and Brandon Laws of Xenium HR dive into ChatGPT and AI and their potential impact on the HR profession. Together, they discuss various applications of the technology in HR, how to optimize its usage through prompt engineering and address potential problems, such as plagiarism, inaccuracies, bias, and non-critical thinking.
In this episode, they cover:
Exploring ChatGPT's use in HR tasks:
- Crafting job descriptions
- Composing and updating employee handbooks and policy manuals
- Drafting e-mails and offer letters to job candidates
- Checking HR laws and regulations
- Summarizing research and reports
- Generating employee surveys and sentiment analyses
- Streamlining administrative tasks (e.g. event and holiday reminders)
In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Randeep Purewal, CEO and Founder of Divercial, an all-in-one B2B SaaS solution for building an inclusive workplace culture. Randeep believes that, unlike the subjective human perspective, technology can help remove bias and gather reliable data, with the ultimate goal of engaging employees and boosting productivity. Listen in and learn how to prioritize cognitive diversity and position your employees for success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Divercial is a B2B SaaS platform that specializes in building inclusive workplaces by placing a more diverse group of decision-makers in every aspect and dimension of business.
- Technology is less biased than humans and could be used to make more objective business decisions.
- Using a third-party company for collecting employee feedback protects anonymity as data collected is scrubbed and provided in aggregate form.
- Unlike traditional consulting work where recommendations are given and not always implemented, Divercial provides recommendations based on collected data, prioritizing issues for the greatest impact.
- To put employees in positions of success, it’s important to have a better understanding of their strengths, interests, and approaches to work.
- An inclusive workplace increases employee engagement and productivity, which positively impacts the company's bottom line.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
It’s time to change the game when it comes to providing effective feedback in the workplace. In this podcast episode, Brandon Laws sits down with an executive coach, speaker, and author Jen Ostrich to discuss the importance of focusing on strengths, growth, and allyship when giving feedback to employees. It’s about moving beyond simply pointing out ineffective behaviors and painting a picture of what true growth and progress look like.
TAKEAWAYS
- Effective feedback should focus on strengths, growth, and allyship.
- Research shows that strength-based feedback improves well-being and engagement by making employees feel appreciated and seen.
- Be clear about desired behaviors instead of only focusing on the negative.
- Focusing solely on someone's weaknesses without providing guidance on how to improve is insufficient for change.
- Delivering feedback on what more effective behavior would look like provides specific guidance for improvement, which is less likely to trigger defensiveness.
- When leaders show vulnerability by sharing personal stories about tough feedback moments, they build psychological safety among their teams.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
SHOW NOTES
In our latest episode, HR expert Keri Olrich discusses the misconceptions surrounding the HR profession. Despite popular perception, Keri talks about the significant impact that a skilled HR team can have on staff and business development. People are complex, so the HR field isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s about finding a balance between fighting for employees and meeting the needs of the business, all while prioritizing healthy company culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- HR is often seen as a necessary evil for compliance purposes and not as a valuable department that can accelerate business growth.
- The HR profession is complex because people aren’t like machines, as arising personal and professional circumstances are impossible to predict.
- Pursuing a career in HR solely out of love for people can cause HR professionals to become jaded due to the excessive time spent with the “rule-breakers.”
- There are so many things that HR professionals can do to fight for employees while, at the same time, balancing the needs of the business.
- A skilled HR team can provide valuable insight into understanding and articulating a company's culture, both of which are crucial for attracting and retaining talent.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this special 400th episode of the transform your workplace podcast, host Brandon Laws and guest Angela Perkins, VP of Sales and Marketing at Xenium HR, reflect on key moments throughout the last 400 episodes of the podcast. The two discuss past predictions about the future of work, leading with vulnerability, and more! Don't miss this milestone episode!
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with workplace culture strategist Jessica Kriegel. The two discuss tech burnout, the downside of employee engagement initiatives, and the struggle to create authentic culture. Listen in and discover how to align on purpose and foster employee fulfillment in the world of remote work.
TAKEAWAYS
- “Collaboration overload” was the first instinct of most organizations that were moving into a remote environment in the early pandemic.”
- Leaders’ attempts to “intentionally create culture” led to overwhelming tech burnout and increased levels of stress, both of which contributed in part to the Great Resignation.
- The Anti-Work Movement isn’t made up of people who don't want to work but rather people who want to work with intention and purpose.
- Replace the idea of employee engagement with employee fulfillment, which is the extent to which your character and abilities are being fully developed at work.
- Every leader needs to be the Chief Reminding Officer, starting every meeting by stating the company’s purpose.
- A culture shift is a co-created, co-owned process, but leaders need to pave the way.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Are traditional business practices hindering your team from maximizing productivity in this changing world of work? Sit down with Art Mazor, Global Human Capital Practice Leader at Deloitte, and get fresh insights from the company’s 2023 Global Human Capital Trends Report. Learn best practices for shedding boundaries and sparking innovation in the emerging workplace ecosystem.
TAKEAWAYS
- Constructs “interwoven into the fabric of work as we know it” are falling away, and a new world of work is emerging.
- Deloitte’s latest report found that more than 70% of workers are already performing work outside of their stated job responsibilities, and only 24% are doing the same work as others with the same job title.
- Workers have more choices and influence than they've ever had before, and leaders must harness that passion to create benefits for all.
- Many businesses recognize the importance of these shifts, but there is also a significant gap between desire and readiness to take these changes on.
- The elevation of skills for leaders to be able to navigate this new way of working should not be underestimated.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Guest host Al Nodarse interviews Kendall Miller, owner and president of Interlaken, a premier excavator in Portland, Oregon. The two talk about how Miller got into the construction world, her industry's trials in the pandemic and beyond, and how to get more young people interested in the field.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
In this episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with Erica Scott to learn how to transform the workplace environment, relationships, and productivity with best practices for fostering honest communication. Make the shift from “taboo” to “transparent” when it comes to saying “no” and asking for what you want.
TAKEAWAYS
- Consent culture fosters feelings of safety and freedom that are not only possible but critical for a healthy culture at work.
- Consent is involved in every interaction between ourselves and others.
- Learning and practicing consent skills helps us create an environment where interactions are mutually agreeable for everyone involved.
- It’s normal for us to struggle with saying “no” or asking for what we want.
- Healthy communication cannot abound if one set of people is taught that the most important thing is to avoid conflict while another set is taught to pursue their desires and needs.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Brandon Laws is joined by David Rizzo, Principal of Talent Strategy and Operations at Deloitte US, and deep dive into talent retention and development strategies. In this episode, you’ll learn what makes Gen Z and Millennial employees tick, how to retain top talent, and what it means to develop capabilities in your people for an impact far beyond the here and now.
TAKEAWAYS
- Gen Z and Millennials have very real concerns about how the rising cost of living will impact their daily lives.
- Employers must invest in employee growth and development, specifically in capabilities that will be portable and useful in the future.
- Employers should not be fearful of developing employees only for them to leave; instead, they should embrace growth initiatives as an opportunity to attract talent and retain talent.
- Creating in-demand and portable capabilities in employees has real benefits for the communities in which we live and work.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Struggling to measure the success of your projects or initiatives? Listen in to this conversation with Dr. Jack J. Phillips, Chairman of ROI Institute and consultant in accountability, measurement, and evaluation. Host Brandon Laws asks all about how to help your team gain traction and make an impact on current or future projects.
TAKEAWAYS
- Every project or initiative must have measurable value.
- Impact is what people can see and really want, so start with that end in mind and clearly define measures to make sure you get there.
- Today’s HR contributes significantly to the business and is less about the traditional administrative, legalistic, and compliance aspects of the past.
- Be proactive about collecting data instead of waiting until the project’s completion to measure success.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
On this bonus episode, return guest and Xenium employee Nicole Blevins talks about corporate jargon, how confusing it can be, and how it can leave your people feeling like they don't understand the messaging or are really isolated in their confusion.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
In this economy, is it really possible to balance your business’s bottom line while addressing employee financial wellness initiatives? According to Tate Hackert, President and Founder of ZayZoon, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Listen in to learn all about how business owners can retain employees during these trying times by providing Earned Wage Access, a solution for the cash flow crunch between paydays.
TAKEAWAYS
- Earned Wage Access, now growing in popularity, allows employees the flexibility to access the pay that they've already earned but have not yet been paid.
- Financial stress causes less productivity which increases the likelihood that a given employee would change jobs.
- Employers can help increase employee financial wherewithal — through a raise, better education, or other financial perks.
- Many small business owners already provide advances on employee paychecks, but that creates an administrative burden and an awkward relationship between the employer and employee.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Times have changed. Whereas HR professionals used to find themselves sequestered to the back of the office filing paperwork, now Chief HR Officers find themselves on the path to company leadership roles. Listen in on this interview with Amy Spurling, Founder and CEO of Compt, and learn how HR leaders can maximize their “seat at the table” in an ever-changing business climate.
TAKEAWAYS
- Instead of filling out compliance paperwork behind-the-scenes, today’s CHROs are better positioned to take on the CEO role than ever before.
- Today’s tight labor market ensures HR’s “seat at the table.”
- Companies must hire an HR person if they want to build a functional, viable company.
- The CHRO role should complement the CFO role as they are the only two positions that sit across every department in a business.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Every organization, at one time or another, will face a crisis. But it takes an intentional approach to get through it with grace. How do you organize your leaders, talk to your people, and move forward with empathy? Listen in on this episode of Transform Your Workplace, where host Brandon Laws sits down with Albrey Brown, VP of Strategy and GM of New York at Joonko.
TAKEAWAYS
- Since crises are inevitable, leaders must prepare for them before they arise.
- Dealing with a crisis means dealing with “the human side of things” and asking yourself how you can support employees through it.
- As a leader, your first instinct may be to act quickly, but taking time to reflect helps you to avoid critical mistakes.
- If you treat employees as you would your customers, crisis intervention plans tend to be much more authentic and effective.
- Leaders must be willing to spend time on empathy so that employees feel supported over the long term.
- While empathy is not scalable, the framework for teaching your managers, your peers, and other individual contributors how to notice and respond to crises is scalable.
- Getting to know your employees on a personal level allows you to gauge how a crisis might affect them.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
On this bonus episode, return guest and Xenium employee Nicole Blevins joins us to discuss the labor shortage and "the new normal." The two talk about automation, hiring, retaining talent, and more.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Want your team to move forward as a united front? According to recent guest Michelle Johnston, we can’t lean on our old ways and expect teams to be productive in the new world of work. The hybrid workplace, with all of its advantages, hinders organic connection, so we must be intentional about setting aside time for meaningful conversations among our people. Don’t know where to start? Listen in to learn how.
TAKEAWAYS
- The hybrid workplace has introduced many challenges to meaningful connection.
- To boost connection in the workplace, leaders must relinquish control and get personal.
- When leaders seek to be perfect, they inadvertently foster disconnection in their workplace relationships.
- Owning and sharing your story builds trust in workplace relationships.
- Listening is imperative to meaningful connection.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
In today’s workplace, filled with countless distractions, it's easy to leave learning and development initiatives on the back burner. But our most recent guest, Ted Blosser, reminds us that employees need learning, skill, and career development now more than ever. If you’re wondering whether you need to prioritize employee development, listen in on a discussion about learning management systems and how you can help your people do more with less.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Listen in on a recent conversation with Nick Sonnenberg, founder, and CEO of Leverage. He and host Brandon Laws discuss asynchronous and synchronous communication methods, planning and project management, and how companies can best use tools at their disposal to avoid having their employees feel like they're drowning at work.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Sit down with Scott Ballard, founder of Confidence Coach, to discuss the ever-present issue of employee engagement. Learn why a staggering 80% of employees are disengaged and how to partner with your people and invest in their dreams, visions, and goals. Ultimately, building your successful business starts with tapping into your greatest resource: your people.
TAKEAWAYS
-
To boost engagement, leaders must address the root cause of the issue: the gap between the vision, goal, or dream for the company and the employee’s vision, goal, or dream for their life.
-
Leaders must invest in helping employees build their lives while building the company.
- Happiness at work comes not when we reach our destination but as we progress toward the realization of a goal.
- When companies focus solely on business goals and neglect their people, they unknowingly cut themselves off from all the valuable energy, drive, and resilience of their employees.
- A business’s employees are its first customers — they have more knowledge of the business, more impact on the bottom line, and bigger influence than any consumer.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Listen in on a recent conversation with returning guest Mark Mohammadpour, owner and Chief Well-Being Officer at Chasing the Sun. He and host Brandon Laws discuss the role managers play in talent retention and overall well-being and how new managers can lead with self-awareness and empathy.
TAKEAWAYS
- A large determiner of attrition comes back to the immediate managers and whether they advocate for those they lead.
- The first step in taking on a management position is recognizing the role you have.
- People want to grow and evolve in their careers, and part of that is following those who lead you.
- Companies must take a broader holistic look at employee well-being.
- Data shows that companies are offering exceptional well-being benefits, but employees don’t take advantage of them due to a lack of communication.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
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Get a fresh take on developing and retaining talent in this eye-opening conversation with Natalie Miller, Regional Director of Apprenti. She and host Brandon Laws discuss a new perspective on the age-old concept of apprenticeships but with an unexpected twist. Listen in to learn how your business could take advantage of this innovative employee development initiative.
TAKEAWAYS
- When we think of apprenticeships, we often think of those for trade jobs, but apprenticeships can also be used for what we call “non-trades,” essentially career paths that we don’t commonly associate with apprenticeships.
- Among the current talent coming into the workplace, only 30% have four-year degrees.
- Apprentices allow employees to get on-the-job training — working with managers and a mentor, understanding what works and what doesn't, and eventually being hired into an entry-level role.
- Organizations that focus on career mobility tend to show increased employee retention.
- Think about the purpose and functionality of the four-year degree requirement and consider other pathways for those who might not have been included in your talent acquisition process.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
In this bonus episode, guest host Al Nodarse chats with Drake Snodgrass, the CEO of Drake's Seven Dees, a family-owned business that has been around for over 60 years and has been passed down through three generations of the family. During the pandemic, the company was affected like many others, but Drake made a commitment to keep all of his employees on staff. Since then, the company has actually been growing! Listen in on this intimate conversation with CEO Drake Snodgrass.
Sponsor: Gresham Chamber of Commerce WorkReady
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
It’s time to bust the myth about what makes a strong leader. Can leaders really show their emotions without appearing weak in the workplace? According to guest Carolyn Stern, author of The Emotionally Strong Leader, when leaders learn to make friends with their emotions and communicate their feelings clearly, they set the stage for real transformation, not only in themselves but in their teams and workplace culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- The expression of emotion and strength of leadership aren’t mutually exclusive.
- Our emotions impact our decisions, communication, and stress level, so we need to be mindful that our emotions matter.
- Emotional intelligence is being intelligent about our emotions, using mental skills and cognitive strategies to think smarter about why we are feeling what we’re feeling.
- Many organizations would rather deal with unproductive behaviors or disrespectful communication than get to the heart of the issue.
- Businesses can have more innovation, more productivity, and more workplace happiness if they start talking about what's going on instead of sweeping conflicting emotions under the rug.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
In this bonus episode of Transform Your Workplace, Suzi Wear takes over hosting duties and interviews Gina Riley about what's important to understand about the younger generation of employees, specifically those in Gen Z (born after 1990) and Gen Y (ages 26-41). The discussion touches on the concept of a "latchkey workforce" and the importance of understanding the needs and expectations of younger employees in the workplace.
Watch the full episode on YouTube
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Listen in on a timely discussion with Marcus Sawyerr, a veteran in the recruiting industry and Founder and CEO of EQ Community. We’ll discuss recent changes in recruiting, address blind spots, and get a glimpse into how technology affects diversity and inclusion during this evolving process.
TAKEAWAYS
- The recruiting process is evolving, taking the lead from consumer products.
- Employers need to review job descriptions to make sure that they are accurate in reflecting the true end goal.
- Sometimes, we can complicate things as time goes on, and we forget the essence of finding the right talent.
- Diversity has been seen as a box-ticking exercise — “the right thing to do” — rather than the superpower that it is.
- Magic takes place when people, who otherwise wouldn’t, are placed in a room together to connect with one another.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Growth can be painful, but it’s necessary when it comes to becoming an effective leader. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Dr. Richard Winters, ER physician and author of You’re the Leader: Now What?: Leadership Lessons from Mayo Clinic. The two discuss Dr. Winters’ approach to leadership collaboration, decision-making, and growth.
TAKEAWAYS
- The best leaders know when to make a decision based on their experience and when to do so by bringing together people with varied perspectives.
- Effective leaders approach complex issues as a facilitator, with a clear mind focused on finding the best way forward.
- If we move forward based on a single perspective, we risk making serious errors.
- Burnout is an organizational vital sign, and leaders must address it in strategic decision-making.
- Doing nothing — not innovating or not moving forward — is actually more risky than taking action.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
On this bonus episode of Transform Your Workplace, guest host Al Nodarse interviews Alicia Chapman, CEO of Willamette Technical Fabricators. Chapman discusses the unique culture at her company, which includes benefits such as unlimited sick days and a commitment to supporting and promoting women in the trades. Despite being a newer company, Willamette Technical Fabricators has experienced rapid growth, reaching over $10 million in revenue within three years. Chapman also shares her experience as a woman and minority-owned business in the manufacturing industry, competing against larger companies for contracts. The conversation aims to provide inspiration and practical insights for business leaders looking to build and improve their workplace culture.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Stuck in a leadership rut? In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Jim Wetrich, author of Stifled: Where Good Leaders Go Wrong. The two discuss how to increase your effectiveness in today’s changing modern workplace by adapting new leadership practices.
TAKEAWAYS
- Despite inevitable change, many companies continue to lean on prior leadership practices and prior assumptions, unwilling to adapt.
- If companies want to make it in this new world of work, growth and change must be at the forefront.
- We're not doing a good job of managing the people who are managing the new managers.
- Our mistakes are powerful teachers.
- Frequently reinforce your mission, vision, and values at every level of the organization.
- The younger generation wants positive and negative feedback right away, not once a year.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
She's back! One of our favorite guests, Nicole Blevins is back to discuss retention strategies! The two discuss how positive experiences in the recruiting and hiring process create a network of candidates to fill future roles, retention and hiring bonuses, boomerang employees, and more!
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
In this uncertain economic climate, there’s no better time than now to take the pulse on employee sentiment. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws interviews Soni Basi, Global Chief People Officer of Edelman. The two discuss the recent findings of Edelman’s “Trust Barometer” and how employers can foster greater trust and connection in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Edelman’s “Trust Barometer” helps employers get a sense of their employees’ sentiments on a variety of timely topics.
- After friends and family, the workplace is the most important source of community for employees.
- If employees can’t see that HR is truly committed to functioning as a people-first organization, organizations will continue to struggle with gaining employee trust.
- People want to work for a company that espouses their own values.
- The only way to build trust is through repeated behaviors that people expect or want to see
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
In this post-pandemic workplace, it’s harder than ever to lead effectively. According to Ginny Clarke, executive recruiter and consultant, leaders must learn to connect with the needs of their people in an authentic way. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Ginny provides listeners with new takes on the Great Reshuffle, quiet quitting, recruiting practices, and top talent retention.
TAKEAWAYS
- When it comes to the Great Resignation, more than COVID is to blame.
- In recent surveys, the number one reason for employee frustration was a lack of career advancement.
- Leaders aren't being trained, expected, or incentivized to facilitate growth among their teams.
- For so long, people have been expected to work tirelessly and to be on call 24/7, and this has led to a great revolt in the workplace.
- Competencies should decide who you hire, not who you're most comfortable with and what is easiest.
- To find your purpose, allow yourself to explore, understand, and tap into what makes your heart sing.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Dive into all things HR with guest Anitra St. Hilaire, HR expert and VP of People at ThreeFlow. Gain insight into recent innovations in the areas of compensation, benefits, employee needs, remote and hybrid changes, and effective communication. If you’re involved in any facet of HR, you don’t want to miss this episode.
TAKEAWAYS
- To be authentic and effective, leaders must be closely aligned with the company's values.
- When leaders know that they’re trying to aim for the same outcome, it’s easier to have those difficult and honest conversations.
- Find a seat at the table by finding ways to bring your unique point of view to executives and backing it up with data.
- Remote work presents a unique challenge for HR because you can't just replicate the in-person environment, needs, and challenges.
- HR leaders must be thoughtful about communication, particularly in asynchronous environments.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Small changes over time produce big results. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws interviews positivity expert Neal Nybo, author of Workplace Positivity Guide and Workbook. Listen in to learn how incorporating micro-actions can be the catalyst for monumental change at work.
TAKEAWAYS
- Developing a third-person perspective of our thoughts helps us recognize our knee-jerk reactions and assumptions.
- To address gossip in the workplace, develop an escape plan to disengage.
- Becoming curious is a specific way to interrupt your natural assumptions and open your mind to the truth behind an employee’s motives.
- If you’re implementing micro-actions, smiling is a natural reaction, and this positivity is contagious.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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On this bonus episode, guest and Xenium employee Nicole Blevins joins us for an exciting "ask me anything." From bad interviews to milking cows, we get a glimpse into the life and career of our HR Services Training Manager.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Take a “room that’s doom and gloom and make it KABOOM” with our latest guest, James Ferguson, author of The Confetti Culture Playbook: How to Boost Your Team's Contribution and Impact. Listen in and hear some leadership insight and best practices from an award-winning hospitality expert turned author, speaker, and thought leader.
TAKEAWAYS
-
Too many businesses have spent the majority of their time focusing on the almighty dollar instead of the people working hard to earn it.
-
When companies realize that they’re responsible for the people who work for them, that's when you start to change your culture.
-
Business leaders must find ways to ensure that employees are seen, heard, and supported.
-
Create a roadmap, or a habit-building checklist, so that each team member who runs a department understands the key actions that they should do daily.
- When you build habits, you create consistency, and when you create consistency, it builds culture and improvement.
- Confetti is a tool that helps people understand not only the importance of recognition and reward in a company culture but it’s also a tool that helps elevate the employee experience.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Are you stepping into a leadership role for the first time? If so, those who have gone before have some valuable insight to offer. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, host Brandon Laws sits down with Alli Murphy, social impact podcast host and Director of Events and Program Development at Engage for Good, to talk about the 7 things she wishes she had known when taking on her first leadership role.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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According to recent guest Bea Boccalandro, author of Do Good at Work, purpose is the greatest driver of workplace success. The world around us is “whispering its needs” to us — we need only set aside our wants and contribute to something bigger than ourselves. Don’t think you can find a greater purpose in your work? Listen in and hear the surprising stories of those who have made it happen
TAKEAWAYS
-
Social purpose is any contribution to others or to a societal cause.
-
In the last fifteen to twenty years, positive psychology has confirmed that the most rewarding part of work is contributing to something bigger than yourself.
-
Leaders should want their people to know that their work matters because they have made meaningful contributions.
- The majority of employees view their job as a transaction so that they can have a life outside of their work.
- When organizations promote social purpose, they typically see higher performance, engagement, and retention.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
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Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Take a deep dive into the current market with guest Chris Cubbage, Founder of Retirement Advocates. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Chris provides listeners with an in-depth market analysis with discussion topics ranging from investing and housing issues to productivity and financial literacy — and everything in between. If you’re wondering what’s around the corner and how to prepare for your financial future, you don’t want to miss this episode.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Quiet quitting may be a new term, but it’s not a new concept. According to our most recent guest, the pandemic has exacerbated an age-old problem: low employee engagement and productivity. Listen in as Brandon Laws sits down with Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer of Vistage, and the two discuss how to set high expectations and boost productivity despite the challenges of the hybrid/remote workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Quiet quitting is the concept of employees meeting only the accepted standards and not trying to do more.
- Leaders must be intentional about engaging their teams, communicating clearly, and keeping standards high if they want to see higher productivity in a post-Covid workplace.
- The people who aren't working at home are the same people who weren’t working in the office; they just spend more energy creating the illusion of activity.
- Commuting is a waste of time, productivity, and emotional energy, and eliminating the commute frees people to get more done.
- Leaders need to recognize that it’s not about attendance and hours worked but about the timeliness and quality of the deliverables.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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What can businesses do to empower and develop the marginalized? This episode features a timely discussion on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with intercultural practitioner Rahimeh Ramezany. From her own experience as an employee to her observations of marginalized groups in the workplace, Rahimeh exposes the power plays at work within today’s business world.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employers must align their values with those of their employees and customers.
- Companies show what they care about through what they say, what they do, and where they allocate their money.
- DEI practitioners should go out of their way to learn about different cultures and identity groups so that they can be more inclusive and sensitive to needs.
- If business leaders haven't even been attempting to check in with their people, it’s time to take accountability for that and make a change.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Ready to take your team to the next level? In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with leadership and teamwork expert Natalie Dawson to discuss her book, Teamwork: How to Build a High-Performance Team. Listen in to learn all about best practices for engaging and developing people.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders must figure out the balance between striving toward the goals of the business and guiding employees toward their own career aspirations.
- To create a pipeline of talent, be intentional about promoting the amazing things that your employees are doing on a daily basis.
- When onboarding, get people the information they need as efficiently and quickly as possible while also over-delivering with regards to self-development.
- Ask team members about their personal, professional, and financial goals so that you know how to coach them.
- invest in team members who demonstrate that they're willing to take criticism and feedback, develop skill sets, read books, and take courses so that they're ready for future opportunities.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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At Xenium, it’s always been about the people. We can’t support you and your people without taking care of our own. Which is why we’re so proud to announce the Portland Business Journal has awarded us with second place in their Oregon’s Healthiest Employer program.
In this bonus episode, Brandon Laws sits down with the President of Xenium, Anne Donovan, to discuss some of Xenium's wellness program initiatives.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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A waymaker is an active leader who opens doors, removes barriers, and ushers people through to greater levels of contribution. In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Tara Jaye Frank, author of The Waymakers, to discuss the inspiration behind her new book, a roadmap for fostering workplace equity. Listen in and learn how to recognize and seize opportunities to interrupt systems and processes that hinder equity in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Inequity is rooted in power dynamics which exist in almost every system in which we work.
- When we determine who to hire, who to promote, or who to invite into a certain room where information is being disseminated, we are witnessing power dynamics at work.
- Power is usually concentrated within a select group of people, and whether that power is or is not shared dictates the degree to which other people can succeed.
- Equitable outcomes are tied to equitable opportunities, and not everyone gets access to those opportunities.
- If we don't train ourselves to interrupt some of these processes and ask better questions, then they don't ever change.
- We can take responsibility for our role in facilitating change by asking better questions and pushing back against bias.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with guest Leo Macleod — thought leader, consultant, and author of From the Ground Up. Listen in as the two discuss stories from Leo’s new book about those who have gone from contributor to leader despite the challenges of climbing the corporate ladder.
TAKEAWAYS
- At the start of the typical career, we are taught to own a task completely and to work independently,
- The challenge arises when we move into a position of managing other people because we tend to hold on to the project, which is not a good recipe for empowering others.
- Start by designing your ‘mountain’ —both personally and professionally — and that will inform what skills you need to develop to move forward in your career.
- Aligning yourself on a team with your mentor puts you in a position of learning the skills and getting the experience to progress in the workplace.
- Be mindful of how you're spending not so much your time but your energy.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Burnout has always been an issue, but with the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, chronic stress has stepped into the forefront of the conversation about mental and physical wellness. In this episode, guest Jennifer Moss, author of The Burnout Epidemic, talks about the importance of recognizing and destigmatizing the chronic stress — worsened by the pandemic — so that we can find peace and productivity in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- The World Health Organization has identified “burnout” as “institutional stress left unmanaged.”
- Employees who are experiencing burnout often feel stigmatized, so they don't speak up.
- During the pandemic, employees were still supposed to hit pre-COVID goals while also working toward stretch goals — this combination was a massive, unidentified chronic stressor.
- A Microsoft Trends report found that much of the global workforce was resigning due to workload and lack of empathy from their employers.
- Leaders must look at budget allocations and bifurcate between wellness and burnout prevention.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Tiago Forte, author of A Building a Second Brain: A Proven Method to Organize Your Digital Life and Unlock Your Creative Potential, talks about his innovative, time-tested method for the organization of ideas. What he calls “building a second brain” is a process of organizing, storing, and reflecting on ideas — all to make an “external impact” in your personal life or career. Sit down with host Brandon Laws as he talks with Tiago about his new book and about how his “second brain” has revolutionized his education and career.
TAKEAWAYS
- The “second brain” is a system that allows you to preserve and store all of your most important information.
- Users reflect on, process, analyze, and understand this information to create an external impact.
- A common pitfall is becoming an information collector without any particular purpose in mind.
- We improve communication by having better inputs: research, examples, metaphors, data points, stories — the supporting evidence that then becomes part of your communication.
- When you keep a collection of very succinct notes all in one place, you start to notice connections or associations that you hadn’t recognized before.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Tiago Forte, author of A Building a Second Brain: A Proven Method to Organize Your Digital Life and Unlock Your Creative Potential, talks about his innovative, time-tested method for the organization of ideas. What he calls “building a second brain” is a process of organizing, storing, and reflecting on ideas — all to make an “external impact” in your personal life or career. Sit down with host Brandon Laws as he talks with Tiago about his new book and about how his “second brain” has revolutionized his education and career.
TAKEAWAYS
- The “second brain” is a system that allows you to preserve and store all of your most important information.
- Users reflect on, process, analyze, and understand this information to create an external impact.
- A common pitfall is becoming an information collector without any particular purpose in mind.
- We improve communication by having better inputs: research, examples, metaphors, data points, stories — the supporting evidence that then becomes part of your communication.
- When you keep a collection of very succinct notes all in one place, you start to notice connections or associations that you hadn’t recognized before.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Host Brandon Laws is joined by Xenium employee and HR expert Nicole Blevins! The two discuss Malcolm Gladwell's recent polarizing comments regarding remote work.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Host Brandon Laws is joined by Xenium employee and HR expert Nicole Blevins! The two discuss Malcolm Gladwell's recent polarizing comments regarding remote work.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
According to guest Donna Cutting, culture consultant and Founder/CEO of Red-Carpet Learning Worldwide, when businesses focus too heavily on the customer experience, they can lose sight of the “heart” of the organization: their employees. In this episode, Donna shares insights and best practices from her new book, Employees First, to help leaders inspire and engage their people with positive culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- The pandemic revealed a need to transition from a “fix approach” to a deeper focus on appropriate relationships in the workplace.
- As companies focus largely on customers, they can easily forget to focus on the employee experience, resulting in lower engagement and higher attrition.
- When it comes to companies with great culture and great customer service, it often starts with a leader focused on purpose over profit.
- The more people feel involved in a vision bigger than themselves, the more likely they are to buy in and make it their own.
- Fair compensation goes hand-in-hand with a positive culture that values employees.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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According to guest Donna Cutting, culture consultant and Founder/CEO of Red-Carpet Learning Worldwide, when businesses focus too heavily on the customer experience, they can lose sight of the “heart” of the organization: their employees. In this episode, Donna shares insights and best practices from her new book, Employees First, to help leaders inspire and engage their people with positive culture.
TAKEAWAYS
- The pandemic revealed a need to transition from a “fix approach” to a deeper focus on appropriate relationships in the workplace.
- As companies focus largely on customers, they can easily forget to focus on the employee experience, resulting in lower engagement and higher attrition.
- When it comes to companies with great culture and great customer service, it often starts with a leader focused on purpose over profit.
- The more people feel involved in a vision bigger than themselves, the more likely they are to buy in and make it their own.
- Fair compensation goes hand-in-hand with a positive culture that values employees.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws sits down with Wendy Ellin, decluttering and organization expert, to learn how disorganization is a massive contributor to both personal and workplace stress. Wendy talks about her 3P Academy and best practices for helping employees find grea ter productivity, performance, and peace of mind.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employees are suffering in silence when it comes to disorganization, and most businesses don’t realize that the problem exists.
- 3P Academy contains targeted strategies for virtually any organizational issue, all aimed at increasing productivity, performance, and peace of mind.
- Many don’t attempt to get organized because they feel that if they can’t reach perfection that their efforts are futile.
- Perfection is impossible; instead, the learner should aim for 80%, an attainable organization goal.
- To get started and stick with it, you must want it and have a specific end goal in mind.
Sign up for Xenium’s annual What People Want from Work survey
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Host Brandon Laws is joined by Xenium employee and frequent favorite pod guest Lacey Partipilo! The two discuss various topics, from AI in the workplace to innovations in HR to favorite social media personalities.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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It’s time to address a growing issue in the workplace: recently-graduated employees who are struggling under the burden of student loan debt. Is repayment solely the responsibility of the borrower? The government? The employer? According to guest Naveed Iqbal, co-founder and CEO of Dolr, education benefits everyone, so we all should share the burden of paying for it.
TAKEAWAYS
- The burden of student loan repayment hinders young people from starting families earlier, buying homes, and saving for emergencies or retirement.
- Employers could be part of the solution by providing innovative benefits for those with educational debt.
- Despite Gen Z’s tendency toward fiscal responsibility, they are given little information or knowledge about how to optimize their finances.
- The student loan crisis is centered around borrowers not having an understanding of what it means to make payments versus defer payments.
- Dolr believes that education benefits everyone, so everyone should play some role in paying for it.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Everybody wants to be happy, but are there tangible steps to seizing happiness right now? According to guest Amy Newmark, co-author, editor-in-chief, and publisher of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, we can take action by applying the keys to happiness from her recent Chicken Soup for the Soul publication. Listen in as she shares some eye-opening stories from the book and gives advice on how we, too, can find happiness.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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We've all seen job listings that ask for 5, 10, or even 15 years of experience to qualify for the role. But how relevant are those requirements really? On this bonus episode, guest and Xenium employee Nicole Blevins joins us to discuss required years of experience and how they misrepresent potential employees' depth of knowledge and can shut out talented candidates.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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What is invisible work? What are non-promotable tasks? And, most importantly, are you unknowingly assigning or taking on this type of work? Find out more about this common issue in this episode of Transform Your Workplace. Guest Kelli Thompson, author of the recent Huffington Post article, “Women Do the Most ‘Invisible Work’ at the Office,” talks about her own experiences taking on invisible work and how women can be empowered to say “no” to tasks that don’t advance them toward leadership positions.
TAKEAWAYS
- On average, women get 44% more requests than men to do non-promotable tasks at work.
- Non-promotable tasks are tasks that don't contribute to performance results or reviews.
- When tasks do not add personal value, align with their career goals and mission, or come with financial compensation, women must be empowered to say “no.”
- Instead of burdening employees with non-promotable tasks, leaders should consider outsourcing.
- When it comes to invisible work, female leaders should shift their identity from doer to leader and delegate tasks to others.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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It’s time to revolutionize leadership development. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws and guest Mick Spiers, founder of The Leadership Project, discuss Mick’s new book, You’re a Leader, Now What?. Get a glimpse into best practices for how to transition from contributor to leader and build effective leadership habits through applied learning.
TAKEAWAYS
- More emphasis needs to be placed on leader preparation instead of placing contributors into leadership roles without adequate development.
- When it comes to leadership, it doesn't matter what you know but rather how much you care about your people.
- A true leader should be motivated by helping people unlock their best version of themselves.
- Through smart and clever questioning and coaching, new leaders can quickly accelerate through the learning curve.
- The Leadership Project embraces concepts of collaborative or social learning to get people talking, reflecting, and building habits for successful leadership.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
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In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws discusses the pressing yet largely unaddressed issue of invisible disability. Guest Jill Griffin, career strategist and executive coach, defines the term and provides best practices for how to advocate for it when working toward comprehensive inclusivity in the workplace. Think that invisible disability isn’t an issue in your workplace? Listen in to learn how an estimated 20% of the US population is dealing with this struggle, in many cases without speaking up.
TAKEAWAYS
- It’s common for people to assume that if you look a certain way, you're able-bodied, and this assumption is a hindrance to creating a truly inclusive workplace environment.
- Those with invisible disabilities may need additional accommodations to perform their duties effectively.
- By not disclosing an invisible disability, the employee doesn't create a capacity for the leadership to help them.
- When employees are working side by side with people with visible and non-apparent disabilities, they feel better about the social construct of the company.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
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Many businesses are returning to face-to-face operations. As the dust of the pandemic settles, the workplace conflict that we set aside while dealing with the unexpected is, in some cases, bigger than ever. So what is a leader to do? In this episode, you’ll hear from Chris Sheesley and Clare Fowler of In-Accord, a conflict management company based in Portland, Oregon. They discuss pitfalls and best practices for resolving conflict so that businesses can move forward united by purpose.
TAKEAWAYS
- Post-pandemic business leaders are meeting conflict issues head-on, which has resulted in a significant increase in morale.
- The pandemic taught us to humanize each other and prioritize relationships in the workplace.
- Diversity should reflect not only an appreciation for different demographic backgrounds and different cultures but also for neurodiversity and different approaches.
- Today, people are more empowered to share concerns and to raise issues, and that creates more confrontation that must be resolved.
- If we can help people understand their contribution to conflict, we're not only helping with the immediate problem but we’re also helping to prevent it from returning.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
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When it comes to gender equality, are businesses missing the mark? In this episode, Brandon Laws and guest Christine Wzorek take a hard look at the data and evidence surrounding gender equality in the workplace. According to Wzorek, businesses that recognize and maximize the distinct skill sets of female employees are setting themselves up for even greater success.
TAKEAWAYS
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Businesses must make a stronger effort to recognize the indispensable qualities that women bring to the table.
-
To make measured progress in gender equality, men and women must come to the table and work together toward this common goal.
- Leaders must move beyond networking and acquiring talent from within their comfort zone.
- Businesses with executive boards that have greater female representation have shown better sustainability and longevity.
- Businesses must be intentional about creating better pathways and access to leadership positions for women.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Join us for a special episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, where host Brandon Laws gets a chance to be on the other side of the mic for an interview about side hustles. Al Nodarse, Client Development Manager at Xenium HR, gets the lowdown on if and how employers should support employee side hustles. The two discuss laying down ground rules and the unexpected benefits that employers can see at their own companies when they let their employees explore the idea of a side hustle.
TAKEAWAYS
- Side hustles can reinvigorate and engage employees who have lost interest in their full-time roles.
- Employees who pursue a side hustle learn new skills that they might be able to bring to their role at the organization.
- A side hustle gives employees an opportunity to earn more money, leading to lower dissatisfaction with their full-time pay.
- When balancing a full-time position and a side hustle, leaders and employees should err on the side of caution by over-communicating and setting clear ground rules.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
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Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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A sense of belonging is critical to the productivity of any business, but how can leaders tackle the challenge of creating an authentic climate of diversity, equity, and inclusion? In this episode, listen in to a discussion between host Brandon Laws and guest DDS Dobson-Smith, executive coach and belonging advocate. The two talk about the underpinnings of an inclusive workplace and how to shift perspectives and facilitate change.
TAKEAWAYS
- In today’s workplace, the employee’s sense of belonging is critical to a productive team, and businesses are realizing more and more that they cannot ignore it.
- Without a sense of belonging, employees have to expend an enormous amount of energy curating an identity that helps them fit in.
- When employees don’t feel fully accepted at work, there is a monumental impact on their workplace performance.
- To have the experience of belonging, you have to have the behavior of inclusion. and to have the behavior inclusion, you have to have the fact of diversity.
- Psychological safety occurs when we know that it's not “expensive” to be ourselves in the workplace.
- Leaders should think about bottom-up recruitment, not only plugging in diversity at senior levels but at entry levels too.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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In March of 2020, small and large businesses alike had only hours to pack up and begin navigating the new normal of remote or hybrid work. And a little over two years later, it’s clear that the pandemic has left an indelible mark on our teams and our processes. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws interviews Ali Greene, remote work expert, speaker, and advocate, about how to keep remote teams connected and productive no matter where their “office” is.
TAKEAWAYS
- When leading a remote or hybrid team, leaders must ensure that their employees have access to information so they can be more effective and efficient in their roles.
- By defining terms like “remote” or “hybrid,” leaders give their teams clear expectations of what it means to be part of an organization.
- Remote Works contains reflection questions and activities that managers and leaders can ask themselves to make sure that they’re using best practices for keeping teams connected.
- Business leaders must take advantage of communication tech tools to ensure that employees are engaged and productive at every turn.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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SHOW NOTES
Struggling to find a genuine, streamlined method for sharing appreciation with your employees? Aaron Rubens, CEO/Co-Founder of Kudoboard and expert in employee recognition and appreciation, is here to talk about an innovative, authentic tool for making employees feel seen and valued. It’s called Kudoboard, and just under 3 million users have already bought in. Listen in today, and learn more about how Kudoboard could transform your employee appreciation measures.
TAKEAWAYS
- Kudoboard is an online group card for honoring employees and recognizing special milestones both inside and outside of the workplace.
- Users can create a Kudoboard, invite others to collaborate, and post short or detailed messages, GIFs, photos, or videos to commemorate a special occasion.
- The more formulaic an appreciation initiative is, the less authentic it feels to the employees.
- Employees need specific and consistent recognition from their workplace peers and leaders.
- When times are difficult, Kudoboard brings people together and helps them press forward.
This episode is sponsored by Swag.com. Get 10% off your order by going to https://swag.com/tyw and enter promo code TYW10 at checkout.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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It’s time to get honest about what makes a horrible boss. According to executive coach Tamica Sears, ahole bosses play a significant role in employee attrition and low productivity, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Most horrible bosses are redeemable, and it starts with recognizing the tell-tale signs and committing to change. Listen in to this episode featuring the author of the *How to Tell if You're an Ahole Boss: A Humorous, Yet Honest Exposé on Misguided Management Behaviors.*
TAKEAWAYS
- Those without leadership skills may start off at that bottom rung, but they “aren’t stuck there” — they are still capable of learning and growing in their leadership roles.
- Bad bosses are inextricably linked with higher employee attrition and lower productivity.
- Good leaders must take real action on the data collected from employee engagement surveys.
- Succession planning is critical to effective future leadership and employee placement.
This episode is sponsored by Swag.com. Get 10% off your order by going to https://swag.com/tyw and enter promo code TYW10 at checkout.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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SHOW NOTES
Chown Hardware was founded almost 150 years ago, and despite countless ups and downs, the company is still thriving. So, what’s the big secret? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews President and CEO Kyle Chown of Chown Hardware. Chown gives listeners an insider’s glimpse into casting vision, conquering team or leadership complacency, and laying the groundwork for a stable, successful future.
TAKEAWAYS
- Work-life balance is a significant challenge for those leading family-owned and operated businesses.
- Chown Hardware, as with any successful business, has a responsibility to care for not only the employees themselves but also the families of those employees.
- During his transitional period into the role of President/CEO, Kyle Chown grappled with interpersonal conflicts about his identity as a leader.
- To lead effectively, leaders must be intentional about being their authentic selves.
- Involving team members in goal setting toward a common vision helps them to become deeply invested in the company itself.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Réland Logan and Katy Byrtus of Cinder, a staffing agency headquartered in Hillsboro, OR. The group discusses the growing emphasis on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives in today’s business world. Instead of just checking the EDI box, learn some best practices for creating an authentic and equitable culture at your business.
TAKEAWAYS
- By beginning with a goal of equality across all people, companies will inevitably become more diverse and more inclusive.
- Allowing employees to air out their grievances allows Cinder to get a deeper understanding of what it is that they need.
- Leaders must create a common language and understanding because we all come to work with different lived experiences and perceptions.
- One common challenge in cultivating effective EDI initiatives can be leaders who aren’t willing to accept that there are issues that need to be resolved.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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In this episode, Brandon Laws sits down with Emmy Thomas, VP of Brand and Marketing for Logical Position, a premier PPC management company and digital marketing agency. Emmy talks about her career with LP and how the company has tackled challenges brought on by the pandemic and an ever-increasing remote workforce. Listen in and learn how to engage employees, ramp up clear communication, and lead effectively, whether your team is in-office, hybrid, or remote.
TAKEAWAYS
- The pandemic caused companies to have to fill unexpected ‘holes’ left by the switch from in-office to remote work.
- The remote work environment has leveled the playing field of the employee experience since all employees receive the same communication at once.
- The remote onboarding experience must be dynamic and engaging — not just talking to employees through a screen all day.
- The LP leadership team has open ears for feedback from all levels of the company.
- Through frequent employee surveying, LP leadership can get a pulse on how employees are feeling and areas of potential improvement and expansion.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Is your team struggling to communicate effectively in the remote or hybrid workplace? According to our recent guest, Renée Marino, we can’t lean too heavily on new school tools, or we’ll find ourselves facing constant workplace miscommunication and conflict. Instead, a balance between what’s new and that “old school” face-to-face interaction is critical if we want to make it in this post-pandemic workplace. Listen in as Renee shares insight from her new book, Becoming a Master Communicator, and find out how to step up your communication game at work.
TAKEAWAYS
- Too much dependence on impersonal tech tools is a recipe for conflict and miscommunication.
- To become master communicators, we need to balance old school and new school communication methods.
- Master communicators know when it’s appropriate to reach out through email versus hopping on a quick Zoom call.
- We cannot forget that we are human beings, and human beings are meant to connect.
- One of the most crucial components of being a master communicator is being a master listener, and that means being a complete listener.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Our most recent guest, Jackie Insinger, believes in the power of the positive. In this episode of Transform Your Workplace, she and host Brandon Laws talk about the science behind Positive Psychology, especially when it comes to the workplace. Looking to transform your team? Listen in and get an inside glimpse into Jackie’s new book, Spark Brilliance, all about how leaders can effectively implement Positive Psychology at work.
TAKEAWAYS
- In business, we can’t stay in the neutral, but instead must push forward and maximize the potential in the positive.
- Positive Psychology is about “building what’s strong, not just fixing what's wrong.”
- The Platinum Rule is to treat others how they wish to be treated, a mindset that positive leaders must adopt.
- Growth and innovation happen when leaders lay a foundation of safety that encourages people to take risks.
- Positive leaders have the power to “spark brilliance” in the people around them by deciding how they want to show up in the workplace.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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SHOW NOTES
It’s time to give your people what they need — a career with purpose and meaning that transcends their job titles. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Julie Winkle Giulioni, career development expert and author of Promotions Are So Yesterday: Redefine Career Development. Help Employees Thrive. Listen in to learn about some common misconceptions when it comes to career growth and how to incorporate employee development into everything you do.
TAKEAWAYS
- The dysfunction surrounding career development is due to a lack of an expansive definition for the concept itself.
- Employees who don't perceive growth opportunities are 7.9 times more eager to leave, even if they like their job.
- Employees need a career growth roadmap that takes them from experience to experience.
- Employers need to seize the opportunity to create a custom growth experience that will speak to the unique needs of each employee.
- Conversation and relationships are the keys to finding out where the employee’s passions lie — and they are critical to retention during these difficult times.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
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Craving connection at work? According to our most recent guest, Charmaine Hammond, personal connection is critical to mental health and the overall health of a business. Listen in to learn some best practices for increasing opportunities for meaningful connection among in-office, remote, and hybrid workers alike. TAKEAWAYS
- Workplace conflict increases as employees navigate frequent change and uncertainty.
- With the rise of remote work, teams are missing impromptu or informal connection in the workplace.
- Informal connection is critical to workplace culture and team elements like building trust and maintaining relationships.
- When employees can see only names and black squares in a Zoom meeting, assumptions and miscommunications abound.
- Even though we’re connected virtually through different platforms and tools, many say that the quality of that connection is not as meaningful.
- Meeting norms, courtesies, or rules of engagement help employees know how to “show up” to business meetings.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
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When it comes to the well-being of employees, how much responsibility should an employer take on? According to guest Ravi Swaminathan, a growing number of companies are doing more than just giving lip service regarding employee wellness. In fact, they’re taking action by offering some unconventional benefits. One such benefit is TaskHuman, an app that gives users virtual one-on-one access to experts in virtually every category of wellbeing. Listen in to learn about this exciting new offering and how it may help you attract and retain top talent.
TAKEAWAYS
- Wellbeing is simply the state of who you are and how you feel.
- Your wellbeing can change depending on what you’re going through physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
- Companies engender employee loyalty by choosing more areas of your personal life to support.
- Supporting employees with new and unconventional benefits helps companies attract and retain the best talent.
- TaskHuman allows employees to access live, unlimited one-on-one coaching from all over the globe.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Having trouble scaling your business when it comes to HR? According to our most recent guest, you’re not alone. In this week’s episode, host Brandon Laws sits down with HR aficionado Matt Tanner. The two discuss common HR blunders that business leaders make when trying to keep up with company growing pains. Ultimately, Matt explains that whether you outsource or hire, passing the “HR Hat” to an expert is vital to the growth of your business.
TAKEAWAYS
- In smaller organizations, it’s not uncommon for someone to wear the “HR Hat” who isn’t trained or lacks the experience to do the job effectively.
- Many small businesses are terrified that they are “missing something” when running HR, putting them at risk for being sued.
- Employees are often wearing many hats, but oftentimes, the HR Hat is one of the last that small teams pass off.
- Once a business has an official employee, an HR expert is necessary.
- When untrained or inexperienced employees are wearing the HR Hat, they tend to lean toward staying out of trouble instead of working with a specific strategy in mind.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Avoiding the “uncomfortable” has become so common that we have a famous term for it: it’s “the elephant in the room.” But according to guest Sarah Noll Wilson, author of Don't Feed the Elephants, it’s possible to free yourself and your team from that overwhelming awkwardness. In today’s episode of Transform Your Workplace, our guest provides tips on how to address your elephants and create a transparent culture in your workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- “The elephant in the room” creeps into the workplace when we avoid talking about or acknowledging something uncomfortable.
- Avoiding honest discussion is a harmful barrier to business success.
- A leader’s response in moments of disagreement or feedback sets the tone for how safe others will feel speaking up.
- Freeing the elephant from the room is a process that happens one conversation at a time, not all at once.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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If you’re a business owner, you know that scalability is crucial to a company’s success. Listen in as Brandon Laws interviews Chris Ronzio, author of The Business Playbook, and learn what you can do to ensure that your company grows in healthy ways. Gain a fresh perspective on how to document and delegate when it comes to your company’s profile, people, policies, and processes. TAKEAWAYS
- Owners shouldn’t be stepping in to do every job in the business; instead, they should create and implement solid systems.
- Leaders and employees must be aligned because consistency equals growth.
- A complete business playbook is made up of the company’s profile, people, policies, and processes.
- A business playbook isn’t a top-down assignment to be passed off to employees but rather a living set of documents that leaders and employees alike can own.
- Scalability is about giving employees clear expectations and letting them take ownership of improving their area of the business.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
What’s the key to productivity and engagement in the workplace? According to recent guest Dr. Noelle Nelson, it’s all about making your employees happy. Listen in to get the latest research from her book, Make More Money by Making Your Employees Happy, and get an inside glimpse into how some companies survived and thrived during the pandemic by focusing on employee engagement. Avoid common pitfalls and implement best practices so that you too can ensure your employees feel appreciated and heard.
TAKEAWAYS
- Companies that thrive no matter what are companies who truly appreciate their employees
- Successful companies create a culture where employee feedback is encouraged, rewarded, implemented, and acknowledged.
- In today’s business world, individual preference matters, so leaders should pay more attention to what their employees want.
- The most powerful thing you can do to engage an employee is to catch them in the act of doing it right.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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We’re long overdue for a candid discussion about mental health and mental illness in the workplace. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Melissa Doman, an Organizational Psychology expert, to talk about the necessity of breaking the stigma and cultivating a culture of transparency when it comes to mental wellbeing. And, as the Great Resignation continues to take its toll on businesses of all industries and sizes, it’s a conversation we can’t afford to ignore.
TAKEAWAYS
- Many employees don’t feel comfortable broaching the topic of mental health in the workplace.
- Mental health is more than workplace wellness; it is about accessibility, diversity, equity, inclusion, leadership development, and learning and development across an organization.
- People are nervous to speak up about mental health issues because they may be misunderstood and compromise their jobs or career paths.
- We must normalize experiencing and talking about uncomfortable negative emotions.
- The COVID-19 pandemic hit the “go button,” forcing businesses to realize that they really need to talk about and change their approach to mental health.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST 🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR 🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Listen in to the latest episode of Transform Your Workplace, where the conversation is all about effective talent acquisition. Brandon Laws talks with top recruiter and talent acquisition expert, Tatiyana Cure, about her book, Hire to Win: Managers Practical Guide for Attracting and Interviewing Top Talent. Learn about best practices for writing job descriptions, interviewing candidates, and selecting the right hire, all while cutting out the tedious and time-consuming methods that we’ve all grown accustomed to.
TAKEAWAYS
- The biggest cost of a bad hire is your own mental health and productivity.
- A vague job description attracts a high number of candidates, so hiring managers end up investing too much time scratching the surface instead of determining if it’s the right fit.
- When interviewing, ask the same questions to all candidates so that you can adequately compare them to one another to find the best for the job.
- Set aside substantial time to look at resumes instead of glancing at the candidates and making hasty decisions.
- Address salary expectations upfront so that you and potential candidates can move forward in the interview process.
- Rejection is inevitable, but the best approach for rejected candidates is one of kindness.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Returning guest Victoria Dew sits down with Brandon Laws to discuss Dewpoint Communications’ latest report, The New Rules of Employee Experience and Communications in 2022. Get an up-to-date glimpse into what organizations of all sizes and across all industries had to say about the past year and its impact on their people and communication as a whole.
TAKEAWAYS
- We’ve learned that change is a constant and that the need to adapt is not going to go away anytime soon.
- This new era of innovation means that we get to recreate, reimagine, and reinvent so many aspects of the employee experience, communication, and connection.
- The silver bullet for the employee experience is embracing chaos and complexity instead of implementing a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Employees are tired of offering their ideas and opinions only to realize that leaders won’t take action.
- Being proactive versus reactive when it comes to employee retention is the most strategic, smartest way to run a business.
SHOW NOTES Let’s face it. Remote work can be difficult, especially when it comes to leading teams and facilitating successful collaboration. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Anneke Victorica, HR expert and founder and director of BloomHR. Listen in as the two discuss approaches, resources, and best practices for navigating HR challenges in the ever-changing remote workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- The key to remote HR is finding great external support and service providers.
- When it comes to culture, the hiring process plays a critical role because it determines whether new employees will contribute to a positive culture.
- If new to HR, it’s important to be self-aware and true to your strengths, interests, and struggles.
- Relationships will always matter, so those trying to navigate remote HR must be intentional about making and deepening these connections.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Considering taking a remote position? Or just in need of some tips to boost your remote performance? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Jill Duffy to talk about Jill’s book, The Everything Guide to Remote Work. Listen in to learn how to maximize the benefits and navigate the challenges of a remote position.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Research says that the more autonomy workers have, the more likely they are to be productive and loyal to their organizations.
- One prominent challenge in remote work is difficulty in creating boundaries that support work-life balance.
- Many remote companies offer an unlimited paid-time-off policy, which means that you earn or accrue PTO as time goes on, and you can take time off with manager approval.
- When working remotely, it’s easy to miss body language and signals, so over-communication is key.
- A specific job description is critical to the success of the remote employee.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Brandon Laws is joined by a colleague, Lacey Partipilo of Xenium HR for a bonus episode to share an oral history of the pandemic from their perspectives. They share their experience at work and at home, and what they believe the future holds for the workplace.
Connect with Lacey Partipilo.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Is the popular saying “fake it ‘til you make it” really a recipe for success? According to our latest guest, Sabrina Horn, faking it ‘til you make it is actually “the worst business advice ever.” In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Sabrina suggests that authenticity is the answer for those wishing to seize business success. Listen in and gain insight into leading with authenticity in today’s unpredictable business world.
TAKEAWAYS
- The idea of “faking until we make it” has mutated through social media and pop culture, eventually becoming a way to justify dishonesty.
- To stay grounded, it’s important to have mentors who will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.
- Sometimes people “fake it” because they're completely overwhelmed.
- Owning up to your mistakes means you'll recover faster and maintain your integrity.
- We should never stop learning or we’ll stagnate and lose our edge in the workplace.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
How should businesses deal with communication breakdown among leaders and teams? And where do they begin when it comes to clarifying needs and addressing conflict? According to recent guest Tim Franz, the Workplace Covenant is a time-test method for merging the obligations and expectations inherent in any workplace relationship. Listen in to hear how it works and get some valuable insight about fostering meaningful partnership at work.
TAKEAWAYS
- To truly listen to others, one must listen to understand and make sense of the feelings that the speaker is experiencing.
- The Workplace Covenant is a method that makes both the leader’s and the team’s implicit needs and desires explicit so that all can work together.
- Like any other process, the Workplace Covenant must be posted, reviewed in team meetings, and discussed frequently.
- The underpinning of the meaningful partnership is empathy, respect, trust, and alignment.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Sit down with Brandon Laws as he interviews Jane Finette, author of Unlocked: How Empowered Women Empower Women. The two discuss Jane’s latest book and her years leading a fellowship that helps emerging women develop into powerful and effective leaders. Listen in as Jane provides a fresh take on the unique role of women leaders in the workplace today.
TAKEAWAYS
- Women are born connectors adept at creating meaningful relationships in the companies that they lead.
- When you empower one woman, you empower another because she will continue to give back to her family and community.
- Women tend to be much more people-focused, so they enjoy more employee retention and engagement.
- Women will tend to build smaller than their male counterparts, but female-led businesses tend to be highly profitable despite the size.
- When a woman reaches a position of influence, she should use that influence to help someone else seize a career-building opportunity.
Are your communication efforts moving you forward and or are they keeping you stuck in a negative loop? Find out in this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, where Brandon Laws interviews Cheri Torres and Jackie Stavros, coauthors of Conversations Worth Having. The three discuss eye-opening tips for recognizing negative communication patterns and having meaningful conversations that move you and your team forward.
TAKEAWAYS
- Everything we do revolves around conversation either with others or ourselves.
- The conversations we have either move us in the direction we want to go or keep us stuck in a loop of negativity.
- Our conversations affect our wellbeing, our productivity, and our engagement.
- Appreciative Inquiry engages us around what we want to see and where we want to go; it’s about the outcome rather than traditional problem-solving centered around fixing the root of the issue.
- When we come from a place of destructive, depreciative conversations, we put people in protect-mode and hinder effective communication.
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A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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As leaders, we must evolve with the world around us, or we risk being left behind. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, we dive into a discussion about leading well in an ever-changing workplace. Hear from Michelle Ray — author, speaker, and entrepreneur — about her new book, Leading in Real Time, and get tips about how to embrace change as you lead your team.
TAKEAWAYS
- If we want to see success in our businesses, our teams, and our own professional lives, we can’t lead in the same way we did even two or three years ago.
- Leaders must be transparent and acknowledge the feelings and passions that their employees express.
- Positioning yourself for success means connecting with your people, listening to them, and being open to what they have to say.
- If you can demonstrate to your people that the part they play has relevance and meaning, then they feel good about making a contribution and, consequently, good about themselves.
- Leaders must build their credibility so that their people see them as genuine, trustworthy, and honorable.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
How can leaders engender respect, empathy, and appreciation in the culture of their businesses? And is it possible to slow or stop the Great Resignation that is dismantling businesses left and right? According to Sarah McVanel, author of Forever Recognize Others' Greatness, it all starts with leaders who are willing to make intentional changes when it comes to noticing and showing appreciation for those around them. The result? A workplace culture with recognition at the forefront and a staff who won’t look elsewhere for purposeful employment.
TAKEAWAYS
- If people see that a new job can potentially “feed their souls” while feeding their bank accounts, then they are much more likely to look elsewhere for employment.
- When we give validation and verification that our employees matter, they're more likely to stay.
- Recognizing greatness is that unwavering belief that every one of us possesses greatness that deserves to be acknowledged.
- If we can create an ecosystem of appreciation, it filters out into every facet of our business and leads to a true culture of abundance — real dollars and cents value.
- The more we show appreciation in our personal lives and our professional lives, the more it becomes easy and intuitive to continue to do so.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Sarah McVanel is a recognition expert, speaker, coach, and author of Forever Recognize Others' Greatness: Solution-Focused Strategies for Satisfied Staff, High-Performing Teams, and Healthy Bottom Lines. She is passionate about helping businesses build “healthy and recognition-rich” teams.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Dive deep into a transformative discussion of emotions with Karla McLaren — author, researcher, and workplace consultant. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Karla about her lifelong research focusing on emotions in the workplace. Listen and learn how leaders can foster emotional intelligence, strong communication, and empathy in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employee motivation hinges on their sense of autonomy within the organization.
- It is common for workplaces to hinder discussion of emotion despite the immense need for open dialogue.
- Each emotion has a specific purpose in cognition, decision-making, and action.
- The emotions that drain us do so for a purpose: so that we’ll pay attention to them and ask ourselves what's wrong.
- You can have emotional skills that are focused on yourself, but empathy is where you bring your emotional skills out into the world.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Karla McLaren has spent her career delving into the undeniable power of emotions. An accomplished author, researcher, and consultant, Karla is passionate about teaching leaders to “revalue” their emotions to create effective communication and deeper empathy in the workplace. Her latest book, The Power of Emotions at Work: Accessing the Vital Intelligence in Your Workplace, is available wherever books are sold.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Conflict, obstacles, differences. In the working world, leaders and their teams face no shortage of challenges. Fortunately, according to Adam Kahane, facilitating effective collaboration is possible. If you and your team find yourself running into dead-ends when it comes to working together, listen in and learn about a fresh approach for removing the obstacles that hinder forward progression.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders of all types — managers, team members, coaches, consultants, and more — can benefit from learning how to facilitate breakthrough.
- Both vertical and horizontal facilitation miss the mark when it comes to facilitating effective collaboration.
- Like inhaling and exhaling, both vertical and horizontal facilitation must be used alternately.
- Effective facilitation is about removing obstacles to equitable connection and contribution.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Adam Kahane is a Director of Reos Partners, passionate process facilitator, and author of Facilitating Breakthrough: How to Remove Obstacles, Bridge Differences, and Move Forward Together. With extensive experience working in over fifty countries, Adam helps leaders of all kinds address their challenges head-on.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Let’s face it. Engagement is critical to productivity. But in the post-pandemic workplace, are managers too busy fighting fires to focus on keeping employees engaged? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Pamela Hackett, author of Manage to Engage: How Great Managers Create Remarkable Results, to discuss the ins and outs of employee engagement. Whether the team is working in the office, from home, or a combination of the two, learn how managers can better motivate and connect with their teams.
TAKEAWAYS
- The pandemic taught us about the under-engaged, disengaged, and those resistant to change.
- The direct boss has the greatest impact on employee engagement.
- To engage, managers must be intentional about connecting with employees on a routine basis.
- Managers must seek to engender confidence in their teams which ultimately leads to a greater sense of purpose and engagement.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Pamela Hackett is the CEO of Proudfoot, an international operations consulting firm having successfully coached over one million leaders. With expertise in driving change in operating models, results, and culture, Pamela is passionate about seeing leaders connect meaningfully with their teams to create a productive and engaging work environment.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Our most recent guest, Greg Slamowitz, may have released his book back in 2013, but it’s still just as relevant in today’s ever-changing workplace. Listen in on Brandon Laws’ discussion with Greg as they delve into his 2013 book, Flip the Pyramid: How Any Organization Can Create a Workforce That is Engaged, Aligned, Empowered, and On Fire, and get some insight on building a framework for company stability and success.
TAKEAWAYS
- There are proven business strategies and tactics available for those who seek them, so there is no need for original thinking to build an outlined organization that can scale.
- When you have a growth-oriented company, you need employees who bring their left brain and their right brain to work every single day.
- The senior leadership team is responsible for setting three to five objective, measurable goals that the whole company can understand and work toward.
- Communication of company goals is critical to success. Employees should see them everywhere and discuss them daily.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Greg Slamowitz is a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur and the Co-Founder of Ambrose Employer Group, a highly-esteemed professional employer organization. He is a professor, investor, speaker, and author of Flip the Pyramid: How Any Organization Can Create a Workforce That is Engaged, Aligned, Empowered, and On Fire.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Is happiness fleeting? Is it possible to find fulfillment? According to guest Beverly Jones, getting “unstuck” is as simple as taking small steps toward your happiness goals. Listen as Brandon Laws and Beverly Jones discuss some simple strategies from her new book, 50 Ways to Get Unstuck, and start on the path to happiness and fulfillment today.
TAKEAWAYS
- The way we treat people matters, and it can have lasting effects on their career and their future as a whole.
- Serving a purpose and connecting with others in the workplace contributes to employees’ happiness.
- If we're disconnected from people, it's hard to be happy at work or anywhere else.
- When you experience gratitude, it’s hard to be anxious at the same time.
- Taking a step, no matter how small, is a catalyst for motivation.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Beverly Jones — coach, consultant, and speaker — is also the author of Find Your Happy at Work: 50 Ways to Get Unstuck, Move Past Boredom, and Discover Fulfillment. She is passionate about helping leaders thrive in their careers and in the workplace. She also leads a podcast called “Jazzed About Work.”
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Ready to inject a little more humanity into your workplace? To progress toward a workplace filled with “better humans,” guests Debbie Cohen and Kate Roeske Zummer say it’s all about becoming conscious of what no longer serves you and having the courage to try something different. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, the authors of Humanity Works Better: Five Practices to Lead with Awareness, Choice, and the Courage to Change expose the systemic roadblocks that hinder humanity in the workplace and provide practical strategies for becoming “better humans.”
TAKEAWAYS
- In a culture of humanity, employees need to feel like they matter and that they are part of something big, exciting, and fulfilling.
- When you start to change, the people around you will start to change; if something isn't right in your workforce, you can start choosing to show up differently.
- In the book, Debbie and Kate walk readers through five different practices that start with creating safety, working together, claiming value, owning your impact, and daring not to know.
- If leaders have the guts to say that they don't know what to do, it actually incites and engages people to step forward because they want to contribute to solving problems.
- You learn and grow from a place of discomfort, and part of that is pausing and seeking to understand what really matters.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Debbie is a thought leader and expert in leadership and management education. With twenty years of experience in coaching and leadership development, Kate is passionate about helping others reach their full potential in the workplace. Both women are dedicated to seeing companies place increased emphasis on the culture of humanity.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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A hard-hitting pandemic spurred an initial, unexpected rise in kindness. But before long, we settled back into our old ways. Could your business use a lesson in ramping up kindness? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Linda Cohen — expert, author, and speaker — brings kindness back to the forefront of the workplace conversation. Listen in as Linda Cohen shares touching stories and drives home the idea that kindness affects everyone and everything it touches, even a business’s bottom line.
TAKEAWAYS
- If a business’s reputation is affected by unkindness, it inevitably affects the bottom line.
- Creating a culture of kindness is an opportunity for you and your organization to think about what would elevate your level of inclusivity.
- When asked what holds them back from being kind, people tend to answer the same way: stress, fatigue, and time.
- Communication from leadership needs to be supportive and open so that employees feel encouraged to share their thoughts and concerns.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
We welcome Linda Cohen back to the podcast. Nationally recognized “kindness expert,” speaker, and consultant, Linda is well-versed in how to incorporate kindness into workplace culture. Author of two books, Linda is passionate about seeing leaders and employees walk in kindness, ultimately resulting in business success.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
We aren’t likely to see a slowdown in our online interactions any time soon, so why not adjust to the new virtual normal? In our latest conversation with Lauren Sergy, author of Unmute: How to Master Virtual Meetings and Reclaim Your Sanity, we learn how to contend with the greatest seismic shift in business communication since the onset of email: the virtual meeting.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Lauren Sergy is a sought-after speaker, coach, and expert in business communication. She is passionate about enabling teams to enjoy effective communication both in the workplace and on the remote front. Her practical insight is evident in her recent book, Unmute: How to Master Virtual Meetings and Reclaim Your Sanity.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon and Xenium HR:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Returning to the Office and Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams: A Manual on Benchmarking to Best Practices for Competitive Advantage
It’s time to head back to work. Or… is it? Dive into the in-person vs. remote vs. hybrid discussion with our guest, Gleb Tsipursky, author of Returning to the Office and Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams. In this episode, he and host Brandon Laws talk about how executives can make strategic, sustainable decisions for the good of their employees and, ultimately, the future of their companies.
TAKEAWAYS
- When deciding on the right return-to-the-office strategy, the key is a willingness to be flexible.
- Team leaders must keep in mind that the office environment is best-suited for collaboration and individual assignments can be completed by employees remotely.
- Companies that are currently forcing their employees back to the workplace place themselves at a competitive disadvantage.
- The pandemic has taught employees that time is worth somewhat more than money.
- We tend to feel that other people will share the same opinions that we do, so we don't ask them about their opinions.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Gleb Tsipursky is a disaster avoidance expert — a consultant, coach, and trainer for the forward-thinking executive who wishes to “future-proof” their business. With over 20 years of experience and a Ph.D. from Chapel Hill and an M.A. from Harvard, Gleb is a published author and thought leader in strategic planning and leadership.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Still focusing all of your resources on recruiting the Millennial Generation? If so, then you might be missing out on the latest group of talent to hit the working world: Generation Z. And according to Melanie Wertzberger — business leader, author, and expert on Gen Z — they have quite a bit to offer. Listen in to learn to recruit and retain top Gen Z talent in the ever-changing world.
TAKEAWAYS
- By fulfilling their needs to be entrepreneurial and independent, businesses can indeed hope to retain top Gen Z talent.
- Even if Gen Z is allowed to work fewer hours, they are likely to be more productive in the workplace than other generations.
- HR leaders and business leaders need to come up with ways of ongoing investment in training and learning so that they can cope with Gen Z’s tendency to company-hop.
- Gen Z expects their organizations to offer programs that address their health and wellbeing.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Melanie Wertzberger is the CEO of Shaka Culture Application, a startup in the HR space. Born on the cusp of Generation Z, Melanie is an expert and thought leader on the interaction between generations in the workforce. She is also the author of a recent ebook, Company Culture for the Next Generation: How Your Company Can Attract and Retain Gen Z Talent, where she shares her findings in research about the latest generation to hit the working world.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Want to create a culture of belonging? As a leader, do you find yourself falling short when it comes to making your employees feel heard? If so, give this episode a listen. Perrine Farque, author of Inclusion: The Ultimate Secret for an Organization's Success, offers practical tips and inspiring anecdotes for effective, inclusive leadership.
TAKEAWAYS
- “Belonging” is the ultimate inclusion because an employee’s team members have become their family.
- The sense of belonging is crucial to an authentic inclusive culture, but leaders must be intentional about it.
- Business leaders should think of themselves as diversity and inclusion champions.
- Toxic leadership is contagious, but so is inclusive leadership.
- Inclusive leaders must create that basic layer of trust so that people feel safe to speak.
- Be crystal clear on how diversity and inclusion tie into your mission statement and communicate that to all of your employees frequently.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Perrine Farque is a best-selling author, speaker, and expert on inclusion in the workplace. With over a decade of corporate leadership experience, she is passionate about helping business leaders create an authentic sense of belonging among their employees.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Chances are, you’re no stranger to anxiety, but have you been willing to talk about it? Either way, it’s time to break the stigma that surrounds mental health. In today’s episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Adrian Gostick, co-author of Anxiety at Work: Eight Strategies to Help Teams Build Resilience, Handle Uncertainty, and Get Stuff Done. Together, they discuss the issues burdening employees and how to remove the weight of anxiety in the workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- Managers and employees alike are not alone in dealing with the burden of anxiety.
- Anxiety, even when we remove a stressor, is still present and can interfere with our work and, ultimately, our lives.
- Leaders can attract top talent by letting them know they care about developing their careers.
- Those who suffer from anxiety need to determine what they can control and what is out of their control.
Participate in Xenium's 2021 What People Want from Work Survey: https://xeniumhr.com/wpwfw
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Adrian Gostick is a best-selling author and thought leader on workplace leadership and strategy. With a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication and Leadership from Seton Hall and years of experience in leadership, employee engagement and retention, and workplace culture, Adrian has a unique perspective into what drives business success.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Fulfilled and engaged employees drive results, but today’s executives are making decisions without leaning into the invaluable employee perspective. In this episode, Brandon Laws interviews Anthony Vaughan: business podcast host, co-founder of the E1B2 Collective, HR aficionado, and expert talent retention. Hear what he has to say about maximizing employee perspective and learn how his victories and defeats have shaped his approach.
TAKEAWAYS
- The employee perspective is vital to executive decision-making and goal-setting.
- To lead well, one must be willing to listen and learn from leaders who are experiencing measured success.
- Utilizing employee data, perspectives, nuances, and needs is essential to the long-term success of any business.
Participate in Xenium's 2021 What People Want from Work Survey: https://xeniumhr.com/wpwfw
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Business podcast host, co-founder of the E1B2 Collective, HR aficionado, and expert at talent retention, Anthony Vaughan has a lot to say about what it means to maximize the employee’s perspective. Through years of research and experience, Anthony knows how to drive leadership transformation and engender employee loyalty.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
SHOW NOTES
What are your employees really thinking when it comes to their workplace? Are they ready to jump ship or are they bought in? Clint Pulver, also known as The Undercover Millennial, is all about exposing the gap in perception between executives and their employees. His five years of undercover experience in 181 organizations resulted in his new book, I Love It Here: How Great Leaders Create Organizations That People Never Want to Leave. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Clint offers practical advice for managers who want to create a work environment that no employee will want to leave.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employee needs are always changing, so managers must be willing to evolve if they want to keep top talent.
- There is a direct correlation between management and employee attrition rate.
- All mentor managers possess these five characteristics: Confidence, Credibility, Competence, Candor, and Caring.
- Many employers feel like they know what their employees think and feel, but they've never taken the time to individually ask people and create an environment where people could be heard.
- Passion, purpose, and the ability to provide are critical contributors to whether an employee loves his or her job.
Participate in Xenium's 2021 What People Want from Work Survey: https://xeniumhr.com/wpwfw
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Clint Pulver, also known as The Undercover Millennial, is all about exposing the gap in perception between executives and their employees. His five years of undercover experience in 181 organizations resulted in his new book, I Love It Here: How Great Leaders Create Organizations That People Never Want to Leave.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In the ever-growing War on Talent, there’s never been more urgency to get it right. To acquire, maintain, and optimize the best talent, leaders have no choice but to dig deep or lose. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws sits down with Mike Zani, CEO of The Predictive Index and expert on talent optimization. The two discuss the effects of COVID on the current workforce, the War on Talent, and team-building strategies that really work.
TAKEAWAYS
- Leaders must emphasize the data and analytics if they want a full understanding of what helps and hinders their teams.
- Leaders must take employee experience or engagement surveys seriously and act upon them, or their top talent will not hesitate to walk out the door.
- It is up to leaders to create transparency and vulnerability by modeling these attributes themselves.
Participate in Xenium's 2021 What People Want from Work Survey: https://xeniumhr.com/wpwfw
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Mike Zani is a bestselling author and expert on optimizing talent and building successful culture. His latest book, The Science of Dream Teams, is a product of his years of experience in building stellar workplace teams. Mike holds a BS from Brown University and an MBA from Harvard.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
With vast experience at well-known companies such as Apple, Yahoo!, and AstraZeneca, Naz Beheshti is no stranger to workplace intensity and stress. But even though stress seems to be an unavoidable part of our daily lives, we can’t let it control our thoughts and decisions. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Naz Beheshti, Founder and CEO of Prananaz and author of Pause, Breathe, Choose: Become the CEO of Your Wellbeing. The two discuss mindfulness techniques to deal with stress in the workplace in a healthy way. Of course, these practices aren’t just helpful for the workplace but should be incorporated into every area of our lives.
TAKEAWAYS
- We can never increase the number of hours in the day, but we can optimize our energy and wellbeing so that we can work more efficiently.
- Senior leadership must lead by example because when communication is coming directly from the CEO or C-level, it helps engage the employees in health and wellness initiatives.
- When we take that mindful breath, we are instantly re-engaged into the present moment, and when we are present, we are better equipped to make better choices.
- To avoid unnecessary stress, use the ACE method: become aware of the source of your stress, change your mindset, and take empowered and effective action.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
With vast experience at well-known companies such as Apple, Yahoo!, and AstraZeneca, Naz Beheshti is no stranger to workplace intensity and stress. In 2012, Naz Beheshti founded Prananaz, a corporate wellness company. A certified health and transformational coach, she is passionate about helping teams navigate the inevitable stressors that come with high-demand jobs.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
As a leader, do you find that you’re putting out fires instead of taking intentional steps toward the growth of your organization? If so, this is the podcast for you. While there’s no doubt that the post-pandemic business world has placed increasing demands on the business leader’s time and energy, this episode’s guest says that it’s possible to adapt and rise above the chaos. Listen in and learn from Dave McKeown, author of The Self-Evolved Leader, all about how to approach the faster pace, prioritize what matters, and elevate your focus above what doesn’t.
TAKEAWAYS
- Even after we return to the workplace, the world will continue its rigorous pace, so our leaders need to learn to adapt to this “new normal.”
- When leaders see new information come in, they feel obligated to respond urgently, a demand placed on them from our clients, the industry as a whole, and the leaders above them.
- Many leaders end up leading through active heroism which, over time, builds learned helplessness in our people.
- A self-evolved leader desires rigorous debate and discussion to arrive at a solution rather than implementing a top-down approach to problem-solving.
- Sometimes the greatest leaders have no answers — all they do is ask really good questions and help people come to their own conclusions.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Dave McKeown is the Founder and CEO of Outfield Leadership, the author of The Self-Evolved Leader, and a leadership strategy coach, speaker, and trainer. With experience in helping organizations achieve scalable growth, Dave is passionate about seeing business teams reach not only their leadership but also their company-wide goals.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
It’s the 300th episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast! Celebrate with us as we hear from Anne Donovan, President of Xenium HR. Host Brandon Laws gets the candid truth about the challenges that Anne faces as a business leader during such unprecedented times, including what keeps her up at night, how she is approaching a hybrid return-to-work plan, and what she foresees over the next few months for her employees and Xenium as a whole.
WHAT WE COVERED:
- Planning for and making nuanced decisions regarding the “return to work”
- Navigating employee dissatisfaction with the post-pandemic workplace
- Making changes to outdated performance evaluation and measurement methods
- Inventing a new playbook for inclusivity among at-home and at-work employees
- Dealing with employee compensation needs and expectations in a changing marketplace
A NOTE FROM THE HOST
When I started this podcast back in 2012, I never would have imagined that we’d reach 300 episodes. Over the years, our focus has moved from solely HR topics to more of a general focus on leaders and culture development, all with the goal of creating great workplaces. Every podcast episode is centered on providing education to leaders who want to be a part of transformation at work. I’m very proud of the work we’ve done, and I hope you all enjoy our 300th episode with our very own President of Xenium: Anne Donovan.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
This episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast features Jay Schaufeld, Head of HR and People Operations at HqO, and his thoughts on the looming Great Resignation, the staggering attrition rate anticipated from tomorrow’s workforce. Host Brandon Laws and his guest discuss valuable retention strategies to combat this unprecedented shift and ways companies can engage employees by targeting what matters most.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employees are engaged when they feel that their work is meaningful and purposeful, when they possess significant relationships in the workplace, when they believe in their organization's mission, and when their values align with company culture.
- Post-pandemic talent can no longer be valued by how many hours they stay in the office, but instead on contribution and performance.
- The pandemic has shed a light on what's really important to people — wellbeing and balance, having connection to the purpose of the organization, and loving their work.
- To retain top talent, organizations must recognize that what really matters is that their people feel heard and supported.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Jay Schaufeld, Head of HR and People Operations at HqO, has over two decades of leadership experience within the tech and professional services industries. Jay is passionate about implementing sound talent initiatives to help scale growth within tech organizations.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Mark Herschberg, author of The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You and recent guest on the Transform Your Workplace podcast, has a lot to say about the skills necessary for a successful and dynamic career. In today’s episode, Mark provides practical career-building tips to business leaders and rising talent alike. Give this episode a listen if you’re ready to hone your goal-setting (and attaining) skills for the future of your career.
TAKEAWAYS
- Knowledge and experience are important, but hiring managers should also look for, define, and zero in on other critical attributes, such as communication, negotiation, and team-building, in a candidate.
- A career plan typically begins by asking yourself what you want in a job and what you want in life. It’s about thinking ahead, not having perfect answers.
- Your career plan isn’t etched in stone; expect to make improvements as you implement it.
- Assess your progress in your career plan at least once a year.
- Any time a new job or role change is on the table, take a moment to assess whether this new opportunity will help you towards the goals laid out in your career plan.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Mark Herschberg is an author, thought leader, and expert in career building, speaker, and professor at MIT. An MIT and Harvard Business School grad, Mark has vast experience in the tech world and facilitating career success.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
At this point, it’s impossible to avoid the convergence of technology, business, and human connection, but would we really want to if we could? According to Deborah Westphal — author, consultant, and futurist — there is a bright future ahead, and businesses should embrace the changes that technology will continue to bring. In this eye-opening episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon sits down with Deb Westphal to learn all about the role of technology in human connection, especially concerning its effect on the future of business.
TAKEAWAYS
- Technology is allowing people to connect and communicate in ways that they never have before, so business would be wise to embrace this change.
- The purpose of business is to serve a broader spectrum of stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, communities, and customers.
- The network effect that technology allows will create even more innovation and more solutions.
- Future thinking resides in all of us, but it’s all about how much risk we’re willing to take to shake up the status quo.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Deborah Westphal — author, consultant, and futurist — has over 30 years of experience guiding businesses to future success and security. She is the recent author of Convergence: Technology, Business, and the Human-Centric Future, a challenging read about reevaluating the focus on technology and human connection within our businesses.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Has remote work got you feeling stagnant? Are you tired and unmotivated? If so, this is the episode for you. Whereas we’re already prone to a sedentary lifestyle, COVID only made things worse. So, how do we get our groove back? According to guest Lizzy Williamson, founder, and author of Two Minute Moves, it’s all about getting up and getting moving. Incorporating movement into our workday is critical to not only our physical health but to our mental health as well. To learn more about how you can get that blood (and productivity) flowing, give this episode a listen.
TAKEAWAYS
- Our brains don't respond best to sedentary work, but it has become our “new normal.”
- One-third of people have reported that, since COVID, their mental health has suffered which inevitably leads to lower productivity in the workplace.
- The brain is built to detect and respond to change, not to engage with a task that goes on for hours and hours, so one of the best things you can do is to take a brief mental break, get up, and get moving.
- Businesses should give employees permission to take a couple of minutes out of their day to look after themselves.
- Movement is a critical piece of the productivity pie; when we care for our physical health, it cascades into other areas of our lives, including the workplace.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Coming to us all the way from Sydney, Australia, Lizzy Williamson is passionate about helping people incorporate “bite-sized wellbeing breaks” into their daily lives. She is the founder and author of Two Minute Moves and a fitness expert with over fifteen years of experience in getting people up and moving.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Can introverts lead well? If so, what makes an introvert a good leader? According to our guest, Berry Kruijning, approximately 30% of workplace leaders in North America are introverts, and their unique approach to leadership is something to be recognized and maximized. Instead of adjusting to a one-size-fits-all standard of expectations, Berry believes that introverted leaders should embrace their introversion and tap into the unique qualities that set them apart as effective leaders.
Give this episode a listen, and learn more about introversion in the workplace from Berry Kruijning, leadership development and communications coach, teacher, and founder of Crowning Communications.
TAKEAWAYS
- Introverts like to become prepared, so you can make virtual meetings more introvert-friendly by sending out an agenda in advance.
- Introverts can stay in control during “tough conversations” by coming prepared, listening, and asking probing questions.
- Quality, excellence, and productivity are motivating factors for introverts.
- Successful introvert leaders embrace being an introvert, acknowledge that, and build a team around them with people that compliment them in their abilities.
- Culture change starts with recognizing that, in a team, you need both introverted and extroverted people.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Berry Kruijning helps organizations recognize the different approach of the introverted leader. With a background in leadership coaching, communications coaching, and teaching, Berry is passionate about helping introverts “embrace their introversion” and find strength in their unique perspectives.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this eye-opening episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws talks with guest Cris Grossmann. He’s the CEO and Co-Founder of Beekeeper, a company committed to connecting non-desk or “frontline” employees through technology. Cris believes that a digital transformation of frontline workers, who make up 80% of the global workforce, can give companies a significant competitive advantage. In this episode, you’ll learn how to invest in your frontline workers through relevant, usable, all-in-one technology.
TAKEAWAYS
- Only 1% of all the venture capital goes into desk-less or frontline worker solutions, yet 80% of the global workforce is made up of these types of workers.
- Digitizing the frontline is no walk in the park, but rather a necessary process that requires careful planning.
- Frontline workers need one companion app: one single point of contact for the frontline worker to get everything they need to be well-informed, engaged, and productive at work.
- A companion app for frontline workers must be simple, quick, and tailored to their needs.
- If a company is investing in technology for frontline workers and deploys the tools that make their lives easier, that's one of the biggest criteria for an employee’s decision to stay with or choose an employer.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Cris Grossmann is passionate about providing tech solutions for companies. His goal, and the goal of Beekeeper, is to foster connection and communication among all employees, especially those with non-desk jobs. He founded Beekeeper in 2012 to meet the demand for high-quality internal engagement tools for businesses. His latest book, The Rise of the Frontline Worker: How to Turn Your Frontline Workforce into Your Biggest Competitive Advantage, helps businesses recognize and implement solutions that reach all employees, whether behind a desk or out in the field.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, we talk with guest Vince Molinaro about his latest book, Accountable Leaders: Inspire a Culture Where Everyone Steps Up, Takes Ownership, and Delivers Results. When it comes to best practices for effective leadership, Vince has the experience and track record for results. If you’re ready to learn more about leadership accountability methodology that won’t get lost in translation, give this episode a listen.
TAKEAWAYS
- Most organizations never set clear and measurable expectations for their leaders only to be frustrated when those leaders don’t perform.
- To maximize leadership accountability, companies should create explicit contracts for leaders so that they can read, understand, and sign their names to their roles and responsibilities.
- Just because a leader has signed the contract, that doesn’t mean they've got the capabilities they need to be successful; support for these leaders is essential to success.
- Companies must demonstrate zero tolerance for leaders who behave in a toxic way.
- When we avoid tough conversations or negative feedback, we weaken not only the person in the position of leadership but their team and the business as well.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Vince Molinaro, Ph.D. is the New York Times best-selling author of The Leadership Contract and Accountable Leaders: Inspire a Culture Where Everyone Steps Up, Takes Ownership, and Delivers Results, among several others. He is also the Founder and CEO of Leadership Contract, Inc. and has consulted with leaders from all over the world. He is passionate about inspiring leaders to be accountable to themselves, their businesses, and their teams.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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What does a good leader do when the team is overwhelmed with anxiety, burned out, or depressed? Responsible leaders must recognize the signs of declining mental health in their employees and empower them to take hold of help. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, guest Lacey Partipilo addresses the timely and relevant topic of mental wellness with practice tips for business leaders. Lacey is a veteran when it comes to providing solid wisdom and insight to the Transform Your Workplace podcast audience.
TAKEAWAYS
- Instead of trying to take on the burden of their team’s mental health, leaders should work to understand the benefits that the organization offers for mental wellness and encourage employees to take advantage of them.
- Leaders need to take care of themselves before they can care for their team.
- Leaders must recognize the challenges that employees face and strategize how the business will play an active part in addressing them.
- Leaders should help break the stigma by not only talking about mental wellness in an open format but also emphasizing that seeking help is a healthy first step.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Director of HR and Client Success at Xenium HR, Lacey Partipilo is our go-to source when it comes to business advice and HR expertise. She is all about relationships, building connections with not only her team at Xenium but also her many business clients.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Meghan Gerhardt, author of Gentelligence: The Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce and expert in how to effectively implement age diversity in the workplace. You’ll learn how to connect with, teach, and learn from those both older and younger than you. The result? Instead of working against each other, employees can finally bring their varied skills and experience to the table, all for the betterment of the team. It’s all about building a team poised for whatever the next generation has to offer.
TAKEAWAYS
- Employees of all ages have insight to offer, so those of different age ranges should have a seat and a voice at the table.
- Age bias has been called one of the last socially acceptable biases, but bias of any kind in the workplace is a hindrance to a team’s success.
- Studies show that, despite differences in approach, Boomers, Gen Z, and Millennials share the same core values.
- If leaders want to foster trust between employees of different generations, they must create opportunities for intergenerational connection and collaboration.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Meghan Gerhardt holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from the University of Iowa. Years of research and time in the field have taught her that intergenerational cooperation is a necessary yet overlooked aspect of an effective team. She is passionate about providing team-building strategies and workshops to help leaders maximize the potential of a multi-generational team.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Let’s face it. We’re all busy. We pack our calendars, pour ourselves into work, volunteering, and family affairs, and then crawl into bed drained at the end of a jam-packed day. This is our norm. But is busyness something we just have to accept? Is it even possible to become (un)busy and still be successful? These questions and more are answered in this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast. Dive into a discussion about busyness and get some tips about how to create some space in your calendar (and your mind) with Garland Vance.
TAKEAWAYS
- The problem: we not only think that being busy is a good thing, but we believe that when we're not busy, that something is intrinsically wrong with us.
- When we compare our true selves to our ideal selves, we conclude that we’re not good enough, so we need to do more which drives us into this non-stop culture of being busy, a feeling like we have to be productive all the time.
- Getting (un)busy starts with taking inventory of our commitments and deciding which of them can be removed from our calendar or delegated to someone else.
- If you’re leading a team, make “busy” a bad word in the workplace, and treat it as such.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Garland Vance is the author of Gettin' (un)Busy: 5 Steps to Kill Busyness and Live with Purpose, Productivity, and Peace. After years of destroying his body and mind with constant overcommitment and little self-care, Garland got a wake-up call and began to study the effects that busyness was having on his body and mind. A leadership consultant and coach, Garland Vance is passionate about helping others find peace and purpose in the workplace and every area of their lives.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Having worked with over 100,000 leaders in 35 countries, Carolyn Taylor knows what it means to affect change in the workplace. She brings her experience as a culture and accountability advisor, author, speaker, and podcast host. Here to discuss her latest book, Accountability at Work: How to Make and Keep Promises and Have Others Do the Same, Carolyn is a dependable source of inspiration and practical advice for any leader hoping to transform their workplace.
TAKEAWAYS
- The relationship and communication between two roles, the asker and the giver, is critical to establishing accountability. The asker wants something and the giver is in a position to deliver it.
- To establish and reach a goal, communication between the asker and the giver must be clear and open.
- Research has shown that there is a strong link between accountability and psychological safety.
- An ideal scenario is one in which the asker gets what they're looking for, and the giver feels that the promise was built on their word.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Having worked with over 100,000 leaders in 35 countries, Carolyn Taylor knows what it means to affect change in the workplace. She is the author of Accountability at Work: How to Make and Keep Promises and Have Others Do the Same and Walking the Talk: Building a Culture for Success, both of which have been a source of inspiration and practical advice for other leaders across the globe.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Brandon Laws interviews Patty Beach about the art of getting employees aligned behind a good idea and leading them effectively toward a vision or goal. The two discuss leadership best practices for setting direction, creating “clockwork,” and empowering employees. Learn how to give your employees a voice and use the “wisdom of the group” to correct misalignments and move forward as a united front.
TAKEAWAYS
- Unlike traditional top-down leadership, alignment in the workplace is analogous to interlocking gears turning together.
- If leaders create a psychologically safe environment, employees will be empowered to voice their thoughts, concerns, and questions.
- Tapping into “the wisdom of the crowd” not only allows leaders to make more informed decisions but also keeps employees engaged in the plan to move forward. After “setting direction,” leaders should have regular conversations with employees to increase buy-in, alignment, and ultimately, forward progress.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Patty Beach is a leadership development consultant and author of the book, The Art of Alignment: A Practical Guide to Inclusive Leadership. With over thirty years of experience coaching and training leaders, Patty’s expertise is helping emerging leaders align their teams toward a common goal.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Get ready for an incredible story of what it really means to “seize the day.” In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Caroline Boudreaux recounts an evening in May of 2000 where she visited an orphanage in India. Caroline was struck not only by the poverty but also by the untapped potential that she witnessed in the over 100 orphaned children. That very evening, Caroline decided to found the Miracle Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to providing access to education, nutrition, health, and protective services to children in need. This is Caroline’s compelling story of sacrifice, heartbreak, and fulfillment — a story that is still being written.
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ABOUT THE GUEST
After leaving a career in advertising, Caroline decided to take a trip around the world. What she found there led to her decision to found the Miracle Foundation, a non-profit that, since its inception, has improved the lives of over 15,000 children in need. Caroline is passionate about measuring real success at each orphanage and streamlining the processes to make sure every child has access to the services they so desperately need.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Brandon Laws interviews Xenium’s own Sara Bradley, an HR Account Representative and solid resource for learning how to pursue a life of wellness. The two cover topics such as self-care, work-life balance, and workplace initiatives to promote wellness in the lives of employees. Your busy schedule doesn’t have to dictate your wellness. Listen in to learn how to balance it all with no burnout.
TAKEAWAYS
- Wellness isn’t just related to our physical well-being. We must be willing to take stock of all areas of our lives if we want to experience holistic wellness.
- Employers do have a critical role in promoting employee wellness, but employees must hold themselves accountable for it as well.
- Finding work-life balance starts with identifying priorities and setting boundaries.
- If employers want to promote wellness among their teams, they must be willing to give employees space and time to take advantage of wellness services.
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ABOUT THE GUEST
The guest of this podcast episode is one of Xenium’s own, Sara Bradley. Sara is an HR Account Representative and is passionate about delivering the best service to her clients. She is a coveted member of the Xenium team and an expert in all things HR.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In this unconventional episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, we take on a topic frequently requested by our audience: best practices for onboarding new employees. Brandon Laws interviews our latest new hire, Gabrielle Cohen, to get her take on her onboarding experience with Xenium. We cover the good, the bad, the tried, and the true so that you can take what worked (and avoid what didn’t) as you hone your new-hire onboarding experience.
Sign up for the Xenium Beyond Compensation Survey - Deadline May 15, 2021
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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It’s all in the name of growth, and sometimes the only way to grow is to challenge the status quo. This episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast features guest Lilith Christiansen, Chief Strategy and Product Officer of SilkRoad Technology, and her reflections on the transformative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on unsuspecting businesses. There’s no doubt that the pandemic exposed workplace weaknesses, but what better response than to learn from the challenge? Listen to learn how you can make the right changes for the future of your business, no matter what obstacle arises next.
TAKEAWAYS:
- If we want to be the best business leaders we can be, we must reflect on the weaknesses that the pandemic exposed and learn how to remedy them.
- Employees across the board reported that the pandemic resulted in a significant increase in job responsibilities.
- Employees stated that role confusion and unanswered questions were also common in the weeks and months following the onset of the pandemic.
- Despite the many challenges that the pandemic presented, many businesses saw increased productivity, resulting in a willingness to continue a work-from-home or hybrid home/workplace model for the future.
ABOUT THE GUEST:
Lilith Christiansen is the Chief Strategy and Product Officer of SilkRoad Technology and an industry expert, author, and speaker. With an extensive background in talent strategy and business management, Lilith is passionate about helping her clients realize their potential, implement relevant strategies, and grow their businesses.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws talks with Diane Schwartz, CEO of Ragan Communications and the Workplace Wellness Insider. They dig deep into COVID-19’s effects on important issues like mental health, workplace connection, and the employee-employer alignment of values. Wondering what changes are coming? Tune in to learn what new workplace developments are right around the corner.
TAKEAWAYS:
- COVID-19 has a silver lining: it has effectively destigmatized open discussion of mental health.
- In the post-COVID era, employees will expect employers to allow them to cultivate a healthy work-life balance.
- Employees want to work for an organization that has values that align with their own.
- The future of the workplace includes a hybrid model that incorporates in-person collaboration and at-home individual projects.
ABOUT THE GUEST:
Diane Schwartz is the Chief Executive Officer of Ragan Communications, a media event company, and Ragan's Workplace Wellness Insider, “an online publication dedicated to giving leaders in HR, wellness, and communications the insights, ideas, and strategies that align employee health and engagement with organizational goals.” In addition to her 25 years of media communications experience, Diane is also a former journalist and a wish-granter with the Make a Wish Foundation.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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What if there were time-tested methods that could help us truly maximize our time? According to Karen Leland, President of Sterling Consulting and Marketing Group, it’s possible to get the most out of the day as long as we’re willing to make some simple changes. Author of her new book, No Nonsense: Time Management: 50 Tips to Hack Your Time and Get Everything Done, Karen gives podcast listeners the scoop on time management techniques that will truly make a difference.
Takeaways:
- Most of us aren’t conscious of the many ways in which we waste our time, and we don’t see the consequences either.
- One way to realize better time-management is to take stock of where your time is spent; keeping track and labeling your activities will show you where your priorities are.
- Working toward a goal isn’t always “sexy” work; sometimes it means committing to completing mundane tasks until you see progress.
- Narrow your to-do list down to two achievable priority items so that you don’t end up overwhelmed by a list of unattainable tasks.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Karen Leland, President of Sterling Consulting and Marketing Group, is a branding and marketing expert passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals. When it comes to the topic of time-management, Karen has written two books and has years of experience leading workshops that help people stay focused on what matters and scrap what doesn’t.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
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Xenium’s own Nicole Blevins gives listeners a glimpse into workplace mediation. Among her varied HR-oriented skills and extensive experience, Nicole recently added a mediation certification to her repertoire. From an outline of the process itself to the challenges that come with workplace conflict, Nicole is excited to share her new knowledge and experience with the Transform Your Workplace audience.
Takeaways:
- An effective mediator asks open-ended questions that facilitate conversation.
- Listening skills and empathy are critical to resolving conflict, even when it seems like the situation is “too far gone.”
- Ideally, mediation should be implemented in the early stages of a conflict before it blows up.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Today’s guest is Nicole Blevins, an avid Transform Your Workplace podcast listener who ended up moving from Florida to Oregon to pursue her career at Xenium HR. Among her varied HR-oriented skills and extensive experience, Nicole recently added a workplace mediation certification to her repertoire. A growth-oriented learner, Nicole is excited to share her love of all things HR with the Transform Your Workplace audience.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this eye-opening episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Lars Schmidt — HR advocate, podcast host, and founder of Amplify — brings a fresh approach to the HR status quo. Lars discusses some of the topics found in his book, including challenging “legacy HR” practices and proposing a shifting of perspective when it comes to our people, our teams, and business as a whole.
Takeaways:
- HR grows and changes with the times. To become better and more effective, we must learn from those who are getting it right.
- HR Open Source is an invaluable growing resource that will help HR teams boost efficiency.
- We can’t afford to let the concept of “culture fit” keep us from hiring candidates that will challenge and grow us.
- We need to rethink the once-a-year performance evaluation. In an ever-changing business environment, employees need frequent, ongoing support and feedback.
About the Guest:
Lars Schmidt — HR advocate, podcast host, and founder of Amplify— is the author of the 2021 book, Redefining HR: Transforming People Teams to Drive Business Performance. From recruiting to team consulting, Lars has had his hand in virtually every aspect of the world of HR. He is passionate about building progressive people teams and shifting perspectives about the role of HR in business.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Barbara Rea knows how to build businesses. From her experience leading the ultimately successful startup of BKM Capital Partners to her determination to launch her own advisory company during a global pandemic, Barbara Rea has a track record for results. In today’s episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Barbara reflects on her years of business experience, from the highs to the lows. She offers invaluable advice to current business leaders and those who want to embark on building a new business.
Takeaways:
- To entice top talent, you’ve got to show them that they will be a part of something bigger than themselves.
- People are critical to the success of any business. They must be bought-in and given the tools to succeed.
- When starting a business, you have a blank slate. Decide who you want to be and then “make it true.”
- Your employees are trusting you with their careers, so you must lead them well.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Today’s podcast features an interview with Barbara Rea, an expert coach and advisor passionate about helping businesses develop leaders, tools, and processes so that they can really become more efficient and more profitable. With a background in real estate and marketing, Barbara is an expert in optimizing operations and maximizing returns for her clients. Her key focus is to set businesses up for success.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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In this episode, Laurie Ruettiman — entrepreneur, speaker, HR expert, and author of Betting on You: How to Put Yourself First and (Finally) Take Control of Your Career — looks back on the many career and general life lessons she’s learned over the years. From her own personal obstacles to those of inspiring colleagues, Laurie shares a story for virtually any workplace woe. She also dives into the content of her recently published book.
Takeaways:
- Our careers aren’t everything. We must pursue our passions outside of the workplace to find fulfillment in all areas of our lives.
- To make any monumental change, preparation is key.
- If you have to dial work back to find fulfillment, then do it.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Laurie Ruettimann is an entrepreneur, renowned speaker, HR expert, and now the author of her 2021 book, Betting on You: How to Put Yourself First and (Finally) Take Control of Your Career. Laurie is passionate about empowering others to find fulfillment both within and outside of the workplace.
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🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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It’s the little things that make the difference. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Thalma Lobel, author, psychologist, and expert in human behavior, shares methods for improving your day-to-day in the office. Get insight into the small changes you can make to have an immediate impact on your productivity, no matter where you work.
About the Guest, Thalma Lobel:
Thalma E. Lobel is an internationally recognized psychologist and expert on human behavior. A former chair at the School of Psychological Sciences at Tel Aviv University and director of the Adler Center for Child Development and Psychotherapy, she has been a visiting professor at Harvard University and a visiting scholar at Tufts University, the University of California at San Diego, and New York University. Her previous book, Sensation: The New Science of Physical Intelligence, was published in 15 countries. Her new book is Whatever Works: The Small Cues That Make a Surprising Difference in Our Success at Work—and How to Create a Happier Office (BenBella Books; July 2020).
Learn more about Thalma Lobel
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Does a fulfilling and meaningful career seem like a pipedream? Are you disengaged at work, desperately awaiting Friday and then dreading the next impending workweek? In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Carson Tate, business coach and consultant, about the topic of employee disengagement. As it turns out, it is possible for us to find fulfillment at work. Listen to find out how.
Takeaways:
- To engage at work, we must know that we are being heard and understood and that our needs are being met.
- We must “get clear” about what we need from our place of work.
- Those who love their jobs are self-aware — they know what their strengths are, what they need from their employer, and that they have the power to ask for it.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Carson Tate, a best-selling author, consultant, and business coach, is all about helping organizations develop leaders, engage teams, and elevate performance. Her latest book, Own It, Love It, Make It Work: How to Make Any Job Your Dream Job, is just one of many avenues through which Carson “equips, empowers, and inspires” business leaders and teams.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, brand industry experts Bryan Adams and Charlotte Marshall discuss the topic of their new book, Give & Get Employer Branding: Repel the Many and Compel the Few with Impact, Purpose and Belonging. The two discuss their revolutionary approach that helps brands attract incredible talent while repelling candidates who aren’t the right fit.
Takeaways:
- The premise of Give & Get branding is that you have to be comfortable and confident with the fact that your workplace isn't for everybody.
- The traditional employer branding model is a one-way value exchange, but the Give & Get methodology places expectations on the candidate in exchange for employer offers like benefits, salary, and opportunities.
- Storytelling is an essential aspect of your EVP. Candidates need to be able to envision themselves as a part of your story.
- There are three fundamental aspects of employer brand and EVP: purpose, impact, and belonging.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Bryan Adams, CEO and Founder of Ph.Creative, and Charlotte Marshall, author, advisor, and Employer Brand Leader of the Year, are the co-authors of Give & Get Employer Branding: Repel the Many and Compel the Few with Impact, Purpose and Belonging. Their unique approach is to replace the traditional branding model with their Give & Get Model which emphasizes not only attracting but also repelling candidates.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Brandon Laws sits down with Victoria Dew, Founder of Dewpoint Communications, to discuss research findings detailed in the recent Insights Report, The New Rules of Employee Experience and Communication in Late 2020 and Beyond.
In this podcast episode, Victoria provides employers with a fresh perspective on how the pandemic has changed the working world, especially when it comes to employee communication and engagement. Victoria offers her report findings along with 15 years of internal communications experience across various industries, all so that she can help business leaders improve their employee experience.
Takeaways:
- The global pandemic forced business leaders to realize the importance of employee engagement.
- The people stuff is critical to the success of any corporation, especially when the unexpected forces business leaders to depend on a remote team.
- The workplace is no longer a place, but rather a state. This forces corporations to rethink employee motivation and engagement.
- Businesses can expect to face challenges concerning onboarding new employees who haven’t been socialized the old way.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Victoria Dew, the Founder and CEO of Dewpoint Communications, is no stranger to business strategy. With 15 years of internal communications experience advising executives across various industries, Victoria is passionate about helping organizations improve their efforts to communicate and engage with their employees.
Get the Insights Report - The New Rules of Employee Experience and Communication in late 2020 and Beyond
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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This episode contains simple strategies for finding peace and gratitude amidst the chaos of working from home. With the unexpected arrival of COVID-19, many of us were sent home to work, where we have to try to be productive despite challenges like homeschooling our kids, managing our work schedules, and navigating neverending remote work obstacles.
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Cindy Baker, a career and small business coach, about how to approach your new normal as a work-from-home employee. The author of a new self-help book, Rockin’ Life From Home, Cindy is passionate about passing on the knowledge she’s gleaned over years of working from home to the Transform Your Workplace listeners.
Takeaways:
- An approach of gratitude is cultivated by making choices, each and every day, to notice and appreciate the small things.
- Being intentional about journaling and list-making can bring clarity to your thoughts and your workday.
- Remaining flexible and being willing to pivot are critical aspects of navigating the at-home workday with success.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Cindy Baker is an expert in the fields of human behavior, mindfulness, spirituality, alternative healing, happiness, and success principles. A career and small business coach for over ten years, Cindy is passionate about helping others find lasting happiness through simple time-tested methods. Years of experience navigating remote work and family pressures has culminated in her book, Rockin’ Life From Home: Success Strategies to Balance Family Life and Working From Home.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Andy Storch, a talent development connector, consultant, motivational speaker, podcast host, and recently published author, offers advice for how to stop operating in reaction mode and start taking ownership of your career. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws and Andy Storch dive into the topics discussed in Andy’s first book, Own Your Career, Own Your Life. Own Your Career, Own Your Life. Through his wide-ranging experience, challenges, and victories, Andy aspires to help others “get the absolute most” out of their personal and professional lives.
Takeaways:
- To take ownership of your career, you must take responsibility and action despite challenges.
- Owning your career begins with genuine reflection on what you’ve been prioritizing and what you value.
- Change is inevitable, so you need to be flexible with your career plan and goals.
- A personal brand is critical to your future success.
- Comparing yourself to others is futile; we are all on our own unique journey.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Andy Storch is a talent development connector, consultant, motivational speaker, podcast host, and the author of his debut book, Own Your Career, Own Your Life: Stop Drifting and Take Control of Your Future. His mission is to “get the absolute most out of life and inspire others to do the same.”
LEARN MORE
If this podcast piqued your interest and you’re ready for more, pick up a copy of Andy Storch’s book, Own Your Career, Own Your Life: Stop Drifting and Take Control of Your Future, available on Amazon. He has also created a companion journal to go along with the book and a 90-day guide with morning rituals and evening prompts so that you can track progress towards your goals. If you want to connect with Andy, find him on LinkedIn or Instagram.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
It’s time to get proactive so that we can navigate these unprecedented times without drowning in fear, uncertainty, and negativity. After all, if we don’t prioritize mental health, we will struggle to lead and serve others effectively in every area of our lives. In this episode, Emily Elrod and Brandon Laws offer their go-to tips and techniques for self-care during the current health crisis. By prioritizing their own emotional health, listeners can find clarity and peace in their personal lives and better productivity in the workplace.
Takeaways:
- If we don’t get proactive, our negative thoughts will control our emotions and, ultimately, our behaviors.
- Prioritizing self-care is critical to our success and happiness not only in the workplace but in our personal lives as well.
- We can care for ourselves by reading, meditating, and finding what “fills up our cup.”
- Showing gratitude encourages others while also fulfilling the one who gives it away.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Emily Elrod is a corporate consultant for Workzbe, where teaches business leaders how to create safe spaces for real discussions, hold one another accountable, foster human connection, and prioritize self-care and mental health. She is also the host of her own podcast, Unapologetically Bold, where she digs deep into what it means to be a human at home and at work.
LEARN MORE
If you’d like to hear even more tips from this conversation, check out the full podcast here. To learn more about Emily Elrod, you can find her and send her a message on LinkedIn. You can also check out the work that Emily is doing at workzbe.com or by listening to her podcast, Unapologetically Bold.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
The thing about leadership is it's hard to explain, but when you're in the midst of good leadership, everyone in the room can see it and feel it.
In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, guest Chance Stewart defines effective servant leadership and gives real and raw advice about how to know whether you’re actually leading or you’re simply “in charge.” The goal of this podcast: to do away with our preconceived notions and learn how to lead with love.
Takeaways:
- Just because one holds a position of authority, that doesn’t necessarily mean that he or she is an effective leader.
- Authoritarian leaders may be missing the point by trying to manipulate teams into doing what they want instead of focusing on what the team needs.
- A genuine leader needs to be someone worth following.
- Leading with love means valuing relationships with those who follow you.
- Some of the best leaders don’t hold an “official” position of authority.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Chance Stewart’s leading-with-love approach is informed by his grandfather, an ironworker who lived to love people. Chance’s grandfather taught him that if we're not taking care of people, then the rest of our efforts to “do something” in this world really don’t matter. As a servant leader and speaker on leadership development, Chance now carries on his grandfather’s legacy in both his personal and professional life. When it comes to the workplace, he’s passionate about helping organizations turn a culture of dysfunction into a culture of success.
Find out more about Chance Stewart and leading with love by going to his website, chancedstewart.com. You can also find him on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. He invites all of you to have a chat with him or send him a good meme.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
When it comes to workplace obstacles, awareness is the first step to overcoming them. In this episode of the Transform Your Workplace podcast, Brandon Laws talks with leadership author, expert and consultant, Errol Doebler, who provides thoughtful leadership anecdotes and guidance for listeners. From his time as a Navy SEAL and FBI Special Agent to his current work as a leadership consultant, Errol shares commonalities in the path toward effective leadership, including recognition of challenges and changes to team behavior.
Takeaways:
- Awareness is the first step toward cultivating effective leadership.
- Behavior, not ideas, drives performance. If we want to see a change in culture, we must first address the behaviors that hinder.
- Leaders must establish clear expectations before they can hold a team accountable for undesired behavior.
- A detailed process is critical for true transformation.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
This episode’s guest, Errol Doebler, is a man of many skills and much experience. From his time as a Navy SEAL and FBI agent to his work in leadership consulting, Errol knows what it is to face immense challenges and build processes to overcome them. He’s the founder of his own leadership firm, Leader 193, and the author of The Process, Art, and Science of Leadership: How Leaders Inspire Confidence and Clarity in Combat, in the Boardroom, and at the Kitchen Table.
LEARN MORE
If you want to learn more about Errol Doebler’s process for cultivating effective leadership, check out his website at leader193.com or find him on Instagram or Facebook: @Leader_193. You can also find his book on his website or Amazon.com.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon:
Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In this episode of the “Transform Your Workplace” podcast, Brandon Laws interviews Brett Cooper and Evans Kerrigan, authors of Solving the People Problem, about how to build positive and effective workplace relationships. Co-founders of Integris Performance Advisors, a firm specializing in employee engagement and efficiency, Brett and Evan tackle the topics that all organizations grapple with daily. They also provide valuable insight and resources that help teams boost morale and increase productivity.
Takeaways:
- The “people problem” is our struggle to work effectively with others in the workplace.
- We must first become self-aware, and then we can seek to understand our colleagues’ perspectives, approaches, strengths, and habits.
- Soft skills like empathy, resilience, and the ability to work with a team are critical in today’s changing workforce.
- Specific language is needed to effectively talk about emotional intelligence --- with common terminology, we can understand each other.
- When feedback becomes an expectation, real growth can begin.
GUESTS AT A GLANCE
Brett Cooper and Evans Kerrigan are the best-selling authors of Solving the People Problem and co-founders of Integris Performance Advisors, a firm specializing in employee engagement and efficiency. They are passionate about facilitating genuine workplace relationships — relationships “that really work” — among the teams they help each and every day.
If you’re interested in hearing more from Brett Cooper and Evans Kerrigan, go to their website and download their field guide (free for a limited time) or take their free survey here. Also, be sure to check out their book, Solving the People Problem: Essential Skills You Need to Lead and Succeed in Today’s Workplace.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In this episode, Charlotte Wiseman recounts her experience with workplace burnout and her eventual path to mental fitness. After years of work and study on the topic of healthy work-life balance, Charlotte decided to make a career of helping others with their own similar struggles, eventually founding a consulting firm of her own. Through her discussion with Brandon Laws, Charlotte redefines self-care and provides insight for the “Transform Your Workplace” audience so that they can experience genuine, long-lasting fulfillment in their careers.
Takeaways:
- Workplace burnout is classified by a sense of exhaustion, cynicism, and inefficacy.
- The switch to remote work can increase your odds of burnout.
- Work can be a problem, but a healthy approach to work can be a part of the solution.
- Prioritizing self-care is critical to a healthy work-life balance.
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Charlotte Wiseman knows what it means to be exhausted by the intensity and expectations of her career. About 10 years ago, she found herself on the brink of mental collapse, so she enlisted help to wade through the questions about what went wrong and where she needed to make changes with regards to her career and personal life. Years of work and study on these critical topics led Charlotte to make a career of helping others on their paths to mental fitness and wellbeing.
So, how can you find this work-life balance that Charlotte talks about in this podcast? Go to charlottewiseman.com. There you’ll find a wellness blog and some resources that can help you avoid or overcome burnout.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Want to bridge the communication gap between your team members? If so, join Brandon Laws as he and his guest dive into the critical topic of workplace communication, a key component to the success of any team.
In this episode, Alissa Carpenter, multigenerational workplace expert and author, discusses tips and methods for open communication that will ultimately build a culture of inclusivity and the freedom to share ideas.
A few takeaways:
- Identifying employee strengths can be the key to helping your team feel heard and valued.
- Diversity and inclusion are just words unless leaders make room for each voice at the table.
- Employees must feel safe in sharing their ideas.
- Be cognizant of your go-to, knee-jerk responses, and be open to innovation even if it’s uncomfortable.
A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST
🔊 Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, Sponsored by Xenium HR
🎙️ Host: Brandon Laws
📋 In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”
GUEST AT A GLANCE
Alissa Carpenter is the owner of Everything's Not OK and That's OK, a leadership training company, and the author of How to Listen and How to Be Heard: Inclusive Conversations at Work. Alissa is passionate about helping teams implement effective communication techniques, stay connected, and celebrate diversity.
LEARN MORE
There’s so much more to this important conversation about inclusivity at work. If you want to get a copy of Alissa Carpenter’s book, How to Listen and How to be Heard: Inclusive Conversations at Work, you can find it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and wherever books are sold. You can also check out her website at www.notokthatsokcoach.com.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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We all just want to have fun… but is the workplace really the right setting? In this unique episode of Transform Your Workplace, Brandon Laws gets the lowdown on the benefits of a playful workplace. His guest, Paul Lopushinsky, is a workplace play advocate and the founder of Playficient, a consulting company dedicated to helping companies invest in their employees. Even though it may have a bad wrap, Paul insists that when workplace play is implemented correctly, it can have a significant impact on productivity, morale, and the overall employee experience.
4 Takeaways:
- A bottom-up approach is ideal when it comes to creating a playful workplace environment.
- Play in the workplace leads to a boost in employee morale, productivity, and retention.
- Companies should be wary of implementing “forced fun” or “mandated play.”
- A buddy system can be an effective tool in facilitating playfulness at work.
LEARN MORE
If you want to learn more about Paul Lopushinsky’s ideas about play or learn about your play personality, check out his blog at www.playficient.com. If you want to hear the full conversation, check out the Transform Your Workplace blog.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Have you ever felt that you, as an individual, your team, or the entire organization are working incredibly hard, but there's not much progress to show for it?
Craig Lemasters calls this the "circle of stuck."
In this episode with Craig Lemasters, author of Unstuck: How to Unlock and Activate the Wisdom of Others, you'll learn how to recognize when you're stuck and how to get out of the cycle of being stuck.
What we cover:
- What is the circle of stuck
- Examples of companies getting stuck
- Stuck vs. unstuck
- How meetings and email play a role in being stuck
- How to ask for what you need
- How to break the cycle of stuck
About Craig Lemasters
After leaving public company CEO life, Craig chose to dedicate his time to helping senior leaders get unstuck on tough challenges. He's passionate about sharing this process with other leaders because he has seen the success it can produce first hand.
At GXG, they are committed to solving traditional consulting’s execution problem by curating intentional, focused conversations with expert operators who share the advantage of their knowledge and experience. These insights empower their clients to activate the best-fit solution and demonstrate measurable success.
He's also convinced that this learning model has broader applications because we all get stuck sometimes. His first book, Unstuck: How to Unlock and Activate the Wisdom of Others, was released in October 2020 and offers practical tips for anyone facing the unknown on their path to a goal.
Learn more and get the book
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Luis Gonzáles has been working remotely for many years, and he knows what it takes to bring teams together virtually. Tune in for an engaging discussion about breaking down silos in functional teams, how to create engaging discussions in virtual meetings, and how to make sure introverted contributors get their voice heard and feel included.
More about Luis Gonzales
Luis Gonzáles is a communications consultant, coach, and trainer, with more than 25 years’ experience in helping improve business outcomes for organizations. He has successfully driven learning initiatives incorporating effective communication, cross-cultural communication, customer satisfaction and soft-skills training.
Currently, he works closely with CEOs, leaders, and individuals, positively impacting business outcomes through effective communication in global, multicultural, and remote work team settings.
Learn more and connect with Luis Gonzáles
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
With good quality data, organizations can create effective strategies and make informed decisions.
To better understand the data we have and the process of data analysis, econometrician, author, and speaker John Johnson joins us in this episode to talk about how to use data to make sound decisions regarding our employees.
John H. Johnson is President and CEO of Edgeworth Economics and Edgeworth Analytics, and has his Ph.D. in economics from MIT. He is known internationally for his ability to explain highly sophisticated concepts in a simple, straightforward manner, and brings this skill to his consulting, writing, and speaking.
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What data within organizations should HR professionals need to be paying attention to right now?
- The broader definition of data
- The first key to good data analysis
- The issue of bias with data analysis
- Correlation versus causation
- Data vs. people
- John’s thoughts on gut feeling and decision making
- Advice to people who are distracted by misinformation
- Basic skills you can employ to make sure you’re not taken advantage of
Connect with John
- Edgeworth Analytics
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
- Everydata: The Misinformation Hidden in the Little Data You Consume Every Day by John H. Johnson
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
In a bureaucratic organization, people are just hired to produce and produce… and produce more profits. When people are treated as instruments, they seldom give their best.
How can people show up and bring their whole self to work if they don’t feel significant and aren’t given room to unleash their own genius?
Bureaucracy is old-fashioned, and thus the age for organizations to be fully human is now!
To help organizations adapt to this change, I’m joined today by one of the world’s most influential iconoclastic business thinkers!
In this episode, we’re bringing back humanity into the workplace with Gary Hamel! Gary Hamel is a world-renowned influential business thinker, consultant, and sought-after management speaker who has worked with leading companies worldwide and is dynamic. He is also the Director and co-founder of Management Lab and a visiting Professor at the London Business School.
Gary talks about his new book Humanocracy, which he co-wrote with Michele Zanini. He shares the principle of humanocracy and its differences with bureaucracy. Gary also shares how organizations can dismantle their bureaucratic ways and replace them with a much more human-centered system!
Purchase your copy of Humanocracy at humanocracy.com and get FREE access to four hours of instructional content as well as exclusive surveys, tools, and templates for building your own hack!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What the data tells about people bringing their whole self to work
- Gary explains the meaning of “bureaucracy is a product of its time.”
- An illustration about how specialization within bureaucracies do and yield economies of scale
- The “Humanocracy” model
- Humankind’s most important technology
- Why bureaucracy is out of date
- Lessons from successful startups that apply to Gary’s book
- The toxic politicking
- Tools and methods to make sure information flows rapidly and make quick changes happen
- How organizations can demolish bureaucracy
Connect with Gary
- Gary Hammel website
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- A History of the Radical Thinkers Who Reinvented Corporate Management by Art Kleiner
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Do you have any blind spots when it comes to your work and career? If your response is none, now you have one.
Everyone has blindspots. As a leader, you need to be aware of your weaknesses as much as you are familiar with your strengths. Leadership blindspots can be a leaders’ Achilles heel. However, like any other weaknesses, when brought to attention, can turn into your greatest strength!
Turn your leadership blindspots into fulfillment and growth today as Entrepreneurial and Executive Coach Malorie joins us to talk about growth mindset and leadership blindspots!
Malorie Nicole is the host of the podcast, Abundantly Clear, where she talks to entrepreneurs about mindset and how leaders can achieve mental clarity, decrease stress, and achieve personal and business growth. Her podcast was listed on Forbes as the number one podcast for people that want to get unstuck that are feeling stuck in their career business.
Her work focuses on helping entrepreneurs and executives redesign their thought patterns for better performance and decreased stress.
If you’re feeling stuck or wanting some change, then I encourage you to listen to this episode!
Tune in as we uncover some of the common blind spots that leaders have and how to make them be aware of it. We also discuss the importance of having a growth mindset in stressful times and how you can turn difficult situations into opportunities for growth and fulfillment, for yourself, team, and business!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How Malorie got into coaching leaders?
- Malorie explains what the Abundantly Clear podcast is all about
- Common challenges leaders are going through right now
- How business owners are responding to stressful times and how their response is deciphering how next year pans out
- Blind spots that leaders have and how to make them aware of it
- The importance of having the right mindset during stressful and uncertain times
- How leaders can turn their blindspots into opportunities
- How to deal with burnout
- How leaders define success
- How good leaders are balancing work and life?
- The Blindspot Assessment
- Malorie’s advice to leaders
Connect with Malorie Nicole
- Malorie Nicole website
- Abundantly Clear Entrepreneurial & Executive Coaching
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Abundantly Clear Podcast
- Feeling Stuck In Your Career? Add These 15 Podcasts To Your List (Forbes article)
- Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Technology has completely taken over our lives. It’s everywhere, and we need it more than ever, especially right now that we’re in the midst of a pandemic.
You can immediately access any information you need in just a matter of seconds through click or voice command. It certainly makes our personal and business activities easier and more efficient.
And I’m certain that you’re probably reading this and listening to this podcast right now through your smartphone or computer!
But we’re too dependent on it to the point that it has disrupted our flow, productivity, behavior, relationships, and health. Technology is not bad, but how we handle it is a problem. Technology is great, and all but being overly connected also has its adverse effects.
Lack of sleep, stiff shoulders, eye strain, fatigue, social comparison... these are some of the causes of overusing/ misuse of tech devices and social media.
How can we avoid these pitfalls programmed into modern technology use?
Join me in this episode as we learn how technology is hijacking our lives with Erik Peper and Richard Harvey! They’ll also provide practical tools to avoid falling into traps and prevent and lessen technological stress!
Erik Peper, Ph.D., is an internationally known expert on holistic health, stress management, biofeedback, and workplace health. He is also a Professor at San Francisco State University. While Richard Harvey, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Health Education at San Francisco State University and has published in biofeedback, stress and computer-related disorders, tobacco cessation, and the psychology of hardiness and courage.
They will discuss their book, Tech Stress: How Technology is Hijacking Our Lives, Strategies for Coping, and Pragmatic Ergonomics, and will share their thoughts on how modern technology is impacting our physical and emotional well-being and what we can do about it.
For people who’re working from home, or individuals who spend most of their time in front of a screen, I highly encourage you to listen to this episode and learn how to manage your technological stress, take control over your time and gain more productivity!
Grab yourself a copy of Erik and Richard’s Tech Stress: How Technology is Hijacking Our Lives, Strategies for Coping, and Pragmatic Ergonomics 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How technology is hijacking our lives
- Strategies for coping and pragmatic ergonomics
- Computer-related disorders
- What led to Erik and Richard to write the book, Tech Stress
- Are you hardwired to sit in front of a computer all day?
- Helpful tools
- Time pressure
- Immobility and hypermobility: how much is too much when resting and moving
- How to feel slightly less depressed and have more energy
- The evolution of smartphones
- The scuba diving analogy about how smartphones impacted our productivity and behavior
- What is D O S E?
- What is it about smartphones that capture our attention every single time?
- How can we regulate smartphone access and focus on the task at hand?
- How can we adjust our lifestyles so that we’re not connected 24/7 to the virtual world?
- Why choosing when you do things matters
- The importance of giving yourself permission to make mistakes and have fun
Connect with Erik Peper:
- Biofeedback Health
- Twitter @erikpeper
Connect with Richard Harvey
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Stretch Break (FREE Software)
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Introverts and extroverts work differently. Their environment plays an important role in how they show up at work.
Most companies don’t really think about whether their workplace and culture are fit to cater to both extroverts and introverts. Mainstream company work culture tends to value extroversion over introversion. And this undermines the strengths of the quiet ones.
What if they have more to offer, but it doesn’t get into the table because leaders and employees don’t really understand how their introvert people operate?
Join me in this episode, as we learn and understand the introverts' traits and how companies can bring out their true strength and talents!
Jennifer Kahnweiler is an author and speaker hailed as a pioneer of the past decades' introvert revolution. Her books are focused on how introverts can lead and inspire others at work by tapping into their natural quiet strengths.
She will talk about her book, Creating Introvert-Friendly Workplaces: How to Unleash Everyone’s Talent and Performance, and explain how your organization can create an introvert-friendly workplace where everyone thrives!
We also touch on the myths related to introverts that’ll make you cringe and why introverts are not what you think they are.
Create a welcoming culture that maximizes the introverts' skills and talents by listening to this episode as Jennifer offers the guides to introvert inclusion!
Grab yourself a copy of Jennifer’s Creating Introvert-Friendly Workplaces: How to Unleash Everyone’s Talent and Performance 👉 here and unleash the introverts' natural skills and talents!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How to assess whether a workplace is set up for introverted employees
- What is the introvert revolution?
- Extrovert focused systems
- Jennifer talks about the common hiring process in several high performing companies
- Hiring an introvert vs. an extrovert person
- Questioning our own biases and perspective when hiring people
- Jennifer’s thoughts on hiring people for the future of the business
- The best way to deliver training, learning, and development systems to power introverts
- How companies and organizations are serving their introvert employees
- The LOUDership leadership
- Whether extroverted skills are more valued inside of a workplace
- Educating people about what introverts are
- Preparation, the real differentiators for introverts
- Understanding and nurturing relationships with your introvert people
- The good meeting hygiene
- Myths about introversion that’ll make you cringe
- The modes of communication that introverts tend to rely on
- Silence and the power of the ‘pause.’
- The relevance of creating an introvert-friendly workplace
Connect with Jennifer:
- Website
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- The Introverted Leader by Jennifer Kahnweiler
- Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
- Powerful: Building a Culture of Freedom and Responsibility by Patty McCord
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram.
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Despite the efforts of companies to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and Culture, many still fail to make a meaningful difference.
Leaders and top management should understand that people need a reason to bring their whole selves to work, their true identity, and their most authentic selves. How can we elevate organizational Culture and encourage our people to show up?
If you’re ready to commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion and achieve collective success in your organization, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we’re going to deep dive into the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion with inclusion strategist Katie Zink!
Katie is Founder and Principal Consultant of Social Construct Consulting, where she helps leaders and individuals put an actional DE&I plan in place so they can create a positive and dynamic culture!
Start walking the path to collective success together with your team as Katie talks about actionable DE&I plan and how we can make it work!
Start Measuring Success in your Organization Culture today! Download the Guide for 5 Ways to Measure Collective Success in Your Organization here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion at work
- Defining the needs in your organization
- How to successfully implement DEI strategies to your organization
- Building actionable solutions for lasting change
- Ways to measure the success of a coalition or a committee
- The case for visible CEO or Executive backing or buy-in
- Implicit bias test and other assessment to measure where your organization is at
Connect with Katie:
- Katie Zink website
- For more information about my Community Call to Action, learn more here.
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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A bad culture can corrupt good people. — Siobhan Mchale
Do you ever wonder why big companies like Enron failed to make it despite being a top energy company at its time? Why did Nokia lose over Apple even though they have the technology to compete with them?
It's more than a technology or a product problem. These organizations and their downfall had something to do with their culture.
Culture is a powerful force that can drive a company to its success. But a poor culture cripples any company or, worse, kills the future of the business.
To avoid business failure, culture expert Siobhan Mchahale, author of The Insider's Guide to Culture Change, joins us to share her proven four-step process to demystifying culture transformation and starting down the path to positive change!
She has worked with big companies and large organizations, helping leaders create a productive and culturally safe workplace. Siobhan led a low-performing Australian bank and over and over a seven-year change initiative, transformed it into one of the highest performing banks in the world!
You don't want to miss this episode as Siobhan shares insider secrets about culture change, how to disrupt patterns of behavior, the power of reframing, and create the culture you desire!
Don't forget to grab yourself a copy of Siobhan's
The Insider's Guide to Culture Change: Creating a Workplace That Delivers, Grows, and Adapts here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What led Siobhan to write a guide about culture change
- The value of a good culture and the consequences of a bad culture
- How the culture of green at Enron led to its downfall
- Lessons leaders can learn from the collapse of Enron
- The four steps on how to be intentional about creating the culture that you desire
- How to affect change in three ways
- Why patterns are the lifeblood of culture
- An example of the idea of reframing
- How to measure culture
- Why and how employees tend to look for a signal from their leaders about what's important
- The culture killer
- The failing culture of Nokia
Connect with Siobhan:
- Siobhan Mchale website
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Uncertain times bring out the real quality of a leader. As we face a new reality with the COVID-19, a new type of leadership is needed.
It is during these times that leaders need to be more empathic while instilling confidence, but how do they do that given the situation?
Join me in this episode, as Kate Carney, an experienced business consultant, lawyer, and strategic advisor, provides the answer!
Kate Carney is the founder of K8 Carney consulting, where she helps female founders scale businesses they love and make the money they deserve. She also serves as a general counsel for growth companies helping them manage risk and capture opportunities.
Nobody wants to be in a tough spot. But when you're a leader, you'll be walking on tightropes most of the time. Find the courage to lead when everything is out of control as Kate talks about her ebook, Leadership & Culture In A Time Of Uncertainty, and how leaders can lead effectively in challenging times.
Do you want to thrive during this time of uncertainty? Download Kate's Leadership & Culture In A Time Of Uncertainty ebook here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How leaders are leading their organization in these trying times
- The kind of leader that we need in this new environment
- How leaders celebrate little victories and make sure their team members are engaged and appreciated
- How to make sure your employees are motivated, especially in times of uncertainties
- How to show appreciation and gratitude to your people
- Why everybody needs a North Star right now?
- How often should leaders be communicating information about the organization's performance and mission?
- Why you should be careful of micromanaging
- Tool recommendations by Kate
Connect with Kate:
- Email: kate@k8carney.com
- K8 Carney Consulting
Resources from this episode:
- Tools to maximize productivity:
-
- Zoom
- Slack
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft teams
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
It's no secret that the backbone of any organization is its people. Though they're the greatest asset of a company, employees are still treated indifferently.
The best investment you can make for your company is not automation, technology, nor data. It’s your people!
Join me in this episode as Brittany and I will talk about culture and how to change toxic company systems from within so that you’re people are empowered, engaged, and fulfilled in their work!
Brittany Hale is the founder and CEO of BND Consulting Group, a consulting firm with an emphasis on human-centered culture creation strategy.
If you’re serious on building an inclusive culture for your people to work productively while feeling empowered, then make sure you listen to this episode, as Brittany shares why investing in your people is a great ROI for any employer, and how leaders and employers can build an inclusive culture and support their employees and propel the company forward!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Why diversity is a huge component to culture
- Canceling toxic company cultures
- Example of a toxic workplace culture
- How to maintain a healthy culture when everyone is spread apart?
- What it looks like to provide an employee care
- The business case for diversity
- How companies and organizations can get involved in social justice movements
Connect with Brittany:
- BND Consulting Group
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
“With the proper process, change is not hard.” — Pam Marmon, No One’s Listening and It’s Your Fault
As the workplace embarks on a new phase due to the pandemic crisis, leaders are expected to step up their game and rethink their communications strategy if they want to strengthen connections with their people and build a better culture of trust and engagement within the workplace.
Effective communications with employees have been particularly important, especially now; But how do you get your messages heard during challenging times? It’s not always easy, but our guest for today has some answers!
In this episode, Pam Marmon joins us to share her take on change management! She is the CEO of Marmon Consulting, a change management consulting firm that provides strategy and execution services to help companies transform.
Pam is also the author of the newly released book, No One’s Listening and It’s Your Fault: Get Your Message Heard During Organizational Transformations, where she shares practical ways to implement change to help you get your message heard during organization transformations.
Find out how to manage change and what it takes to successfully lead authentic transformation by listening to this episode and witness how healthy communities are built within the workplace!
Order a copy of Pam’s book now! Get yours 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Why Pam decided to write a book about the communication aspect of the entire management process
- How leaders can transform the organization from the inside out
- The mindset every leader must have
- Why many leaders fear change and why many struggle with it
- The model that can help leaders to implement change effectively
- The role of a leader when it comes to change
- Project management and change management need to work side by side to achieve organizational goals
- The case for change
- The most valuable players in your organization when it comes to change management
- The process of building a communication strategy for any change that’s happening within your organization
- What is the “Readiness Assessment”
- How do you know when a change is happening and how can you measure the effectiveness of it?
Connect with Pam:
- Marmon Consulting
Sign up for the annual Xenium What People Want from Work survey: https://www.xeniumhr.com/what-people-want-from-work/
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Every single day, we make hundreds of decisions, consciously, and unconsciously. Some are small and some require more thinking. How we make those decisions will ultimately affect our lives and others.
No one wants to be in a position where they have to make hard decisions. It’s not always easy to make the right choice. When time is of the essence, even if the knowledge we have at that time is scarce, we have to think quickly and act immediately. Otherwise, it’ll lead to unfavorable results that we might regret later on.
Whether it’s something small and mundane or a matter of life-and-death situation, how do you make better decisions? How do you make choices that’ll positively affect your future and the people around you?
You just made the right choice today! And that is to listen to this episode!
Get empowered and achieve a higher level of decision-making, as business strategy expert, Robert Dilenscheider joins us to talk about making decisions better decisions and the choices of people who shaped the world we live in today and how we can apply them in our daily life!
Robert is the founder and chairman of The Dilenschneider Group, a global public relations, and communications consulting firm headquartered in New York City. He wrote the book Decision: Practical Advice from 23 Men and Women Who Shaped the World, where he helps make life better for people by highlighting the choices of notable peoples from history and how their decisions shaped what’s going tomorrow.
Grab yourself a copy of Robert Dilenschneider’s Decisions: Practical Advice from 23 Men and Women Who Shaped the World 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- The implications of the decisions that we will make
- Harry Truman and his decision to use the atomic bomb
- Malala Yousafzai and her decision to stand up and fight for what she believes in
- The outcome of Henry Ford’s decision about his workers’ wage
- What we can learn from Johann Gutenberg’s decision and having clear goals
- Common themes among the 23 people who shaped the world through their decisions
- How to make better decisions
Connect with Robert
- The Dilenschneider Group, Inc.
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Leaders must be intentional about the culture they create if they want their people to engage and feel connected. Sadly, not all leaders are equipped with the right tools and training to take on such a task.
In today’s episode, Galen Emanuele, the founder of Shift Yes, joins us to talk on the concept of “Yes, And” to develop and transform leadership skills, intentional culture, productivity and play, and how to bring race conversation in the workplace.
He is a highly-sought-after speaker and thought leader on business leadership and team culture. He is also a world-class improviser, having taught and performed improv for many years and toured with the cast from Whose Line Is It Anyway?.
Galen also works with organizations around the globe including Fortune 500 companies, changing the way teams and leaders communicate, drive culture, and show up in business.
Make sure you listen to this episode and gain valuable skills, mindset, and actionable tips you can apply to your team and organizations!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- The best qualities of an improviser
- Taking a break or playtime to gain more productivity
- A powerful question to ask your employees
- How can leaders keep their people engaged and connected?
- Healthy boundaries and burnout
- Being intentional with your culture
- The 3 guiding principles when creating an intentional culture in an organization
- Firing underperforming employees
- How a leader can step into conversations about race at work
Connect with Gale:
- YouTube
- Shift Yes
Mentioned in this episode:
- Yes, And Galen | EP 2
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Working more doesn't equate to more things getting done.
The average person spends about 70% of their waking hours looking at screens, commuting, or running errands, which doesn't leave much for living life. And when we do take breaks, what do we normally do? Stare at "screens" (again).
It's no wonder people are stressed and burned out most of the time. Is it even possible to optimize our time, work less, and get more things done?
According to Steve Glaveski, the author of Time-Rich: Do Your Best Work, Live Your Best Life, people who have more time to invest in their relationships, hobbies, physical, and mental health are the ones who are more productive in the office.
Find out what's wasting your time and learn how you can optimize it so that you're achieving more and spending your precious resources on things that matter most!
In this episode, I'm joined by Steve Glaveski to talk about how you are wasting your time and the tools to optimize it! He is the CEO of Collective Campus, an innovation accelerator based in Melbourne and Singapore, that works with large organizations around the globe. He is an entrepreneur, author, and host of Future2. His passion lies in helping people create more impact and lead to more fulfilling lives!
Free up some time today. Take a breath, take a walk, and give yourself a break! While you're at it, listen to this episode and learn how you can become time-rich!
Grab yourself a copy of Steve Glaveski's "Time Rich: Do Your Best Work, Live Your Best Life" 👉 here! You can also download the first chapter for FREE! Click 👉 here
In this episode, you will learn about:
- The inspiration behind Time Rich
- The 80/20 principle
- Why we need to work less and not more
- Working less and achieving more
- Steve's thoughts and predictions of the future of work and what we can expect seeing 5-10 years from now
- Generalist vs. Specialist
- Re-scaling your people and helping them adapt to changes
- Tools to optimize time and your schedule
- Early birds and night owls
- External and internal disruptions and interruptions that kills your flow of productivity
- How to increase value and decrease bureaucracy to build a time-rich culture
Connect with Steve:
Mentioned in this episode:
- It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work by Jason Fried
- Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein
Most people are thrown into management positions without any official training.
And because a manager’s role in a company is crucial and affects everyone, this can pose problems in the future.
In this episode with Peter Economy, we tackle the lack of managerial training, poor management practices, and their corresponding solutions.
Peter is a professional writer with 20 years of experience in his belt. He’s a best-selling author and a publishing consultant. He also writes for Inc.com as The Leadership Guy.
If you want to learn how to become a good manager, tune into this episode as Peter shares what his book is all about and how you can lead and run a company better!
Grab yourself a copy of Peter’s Wait, I'm the Boss?!?: The Essential Guide for New Managers to Succeed from Day One 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Peter’s personal experience in leading without training
- The number one reason why people leave their jobs
- Bad leadership habits: Why they last and how to stop them
- How you can become a good manager
- How to set attainable goals for your employees
- CLEAR goals: What they are and how it can help your organization
- Creating a safe space for learning in the workplace
- When and how to conduct regular checkup meetings
- Feedback: How often you should give them
- Why money isn’t the number one job motivator
- The best way you can motivate your employees
- Workplace gossip: When you should step in
- The inspiration behind “Wait, I’m the Boss?!?”
- Knowing when to delegate certain tasks and when to do it yourself
Connect with Peter:
- Peter Economy
- Twitter @bizzwriter
- The Venture Edge - Peter’s blog
Mentioned in this episode:
- 1001 Ways to Reward Employees by Bob Nelson
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
With the help of technology, publishing your job posts has never been easier. The challenge, how will you stand out and attract the best pool of job seekers?
In a sea of job postings, how do you help a qualified individual seeking for a job find your job posts?
In this episode, we are joined by the career expert Mac Prichard to answer questions related to job search and job postings!
Mac is a Communications Strategist and the Founder and Publisher of Mac’s List, a top source for job listings in Portland, Oregon aimed at professionals who’re looking for a personally fulfilling career. He is also the host of Find Your Dream Job podcast where they provide inspiration, empathy, insider secrets, and actionable advice to help you find purposeful work! Check out my guest appearance on Mac’s show!
At Mac’s List, they believe that behind every successful career, there’s a smart, effective job seeker. And Mac will share tips for job seekers and how employers can create a compelling job post and help others build a great career!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Update on the current volumes of job postings on Mac’s list
- Job losses and recovery
- Passive job seekers and job seeking for survival
- How employers can make their job post appealing
- How to have a clear hiring process
- Why you should be giving much information as possible before an interview
- What constitute a good job interview?
- How to write a job posting in a compelling way
Connect with Mac:
- Twitter @Mac_Prichard
- Twitter @Macs_List
- Instagram @macs_list
Mentioned in this episode:
- Mac’s List
- Find Your Dream Job Podcast
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Great teams are at the heart of every successful business and organization. But what makes a great team? Is it the presence of a star player, or is it a dynamic leader who knows how to empower and bring out the best in their team?
Find out the answer today as former pro athlete Mike Robbins teaches us how to create a team culture of high performance, authenticity, trust, and belonging!
Mike is a sought-after motivational keynote speaker, seminar leader, and the author of five books, including his latest, We’re All in This Together. Robbins spent the past 15 years researching and speaking about essential human experiences in the workplace. Robbins' work is centered around emotional intelligence, leadership, teamwork, authenticity, appreciation, compassion, and vulnerability at work and in life.
Make sure you don’t skip this episode, as Mike provides essential tips on how to create a strong culture of empowerment, trust, and performance and how to sustain it to accomplish exceptional results!
Grab a copy of Mike’s We’re All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and belonging 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Lessons that Mike learned from his sports playing days on what makes a great team
- Team chemistry in sports
- The challenges of moving from team to team
- Lessons on how the Golden State Warriors and their psychologically safe organization were able to turn things around in a difficult match
- Creating an environment where people feel safe to share their ideas and thoughts without feeling shamed
- Authenticity continuum and bringing your whole self to work
- The Authenticity Equation
- How the “If you really knew” exercise helps with vulnerability issues
- The difference between diversity and inclusion
- The importance of inclusion and belonging
- The “Trash can exercise” and how you can best use your education to help others who don’t have the same privilege as you do
- Embracing the sweaty palm conversation
- The appreciation seat exercise
Connect with Mike:
- Mike Robbins - website
- Instagram @mikedrobbins
- Twitter @mikedrobins
Mentioned in this episode:
- Amy Edmondson on Creating Better Organizations by Building Psychological Safety in the Workplace
- Bring your whole self to work | Mike Robbins | TEDxBerkeley
- Mike’s books:
-
- Focus on the Good Stuff: The Power of Appreciation
- Bring Your Whole Self To Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance
- Nothing Changes Until You Do
- Bring Your Whole Self To Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance
- Be Yourself, Everyone Else is Already Taken: Transform Your Life with the Power of Authenticity
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Our work environment heavily impacts our health more than we ever know. When we are not taking care of ourselves, we are more prone to burn out, stress, and sickness.
If you are not in your top condition, you’re more absent and disengaged at work. But when you’re in a space that empowers you to be healthy and happy, it’ll reflect on your work!
Join me in this episode as we talk about how to create safe spaces and build accountability connections within your organizations with Emily Elrod! She is an experienced corporate consultant and the President of Workzbe, a company with a mission to creating environments where people can have accountability, long-lasting connections, and favorable results.
Find out how you can create wise work that your people need as Emily shares her knowledge and expertise so you have a culture that empowers people to show up, contribute, collaborate, and have fun in what they do!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Creating safe spaces or accountability connection
- Building through trust
- Implementing programs and processes that’ll make your people’s lives better
- Why information is not always power
- Why it’s important to have a conversation about stress
- The ideal work environment
- Why you should help yourself first to help others
- Why you should strive to know your people first before you start allocating your resources
Connect with Emily:
- Workzbe
- Instagram @emmyelrod
Mentioned in this episode:
- Watch Brandon's guest appearance on Emily's podcast
- How to Say Anything to Anyone: A Guide to Building Business Relationships That Really Work by Shari Harley
- Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family by Bob Chapman
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Many people go into leadership roles without understanding the fundamentals of how to lead effectively and succeed at it. As a leader, your job is and will always be to serve. But many aren’t aware of that. They just simply don’t understand what leadership is supposed to be and what it is not.
If you’re serious about developing organizational leadership skills, then make sure you listen to today’s episode!
Our guest today, Alain Hunkins, is a sought-after speaker, consultant, trainer, and coach, who is passionate about building influential leaders. He wrote the book Cracking the Leadership Code: 3 Secrets to Building Strong Leaders, where he shares valuable principles and practices that he developed and refined over 20 years working with leaders.
Unlock your leadership potential and create the best possible results for your team and organization as we crack the leadership code on how to build strong leaders so you can become the effective leader you aspire to be!
Grab yourself a copy of Alain’s Cracking the Leadership Code: 3 Secrets to Building Strong Leaders 👉 here! You can also read the first chapter of the book (FREE) 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- The inspiration behind “Cracking The Leadership Code”
- The importance of having the right mindset to lead better
- The “aha moment”
- Influence over authority - understanding what leadership isn’t and what it really is
- 3 secrets to building a strong leader
- How poor leaders are developed
- How access to information causes leaders to grow and lead differently
- Creating the best possible results when leading
- Having self-awareness about everything you say and do
- What Alain learned about empathy
- How to become an effective communicator
- Tactical things we can do to create a collaborative environment
Connect with Alain:
- Alain Hunkins
- Twitter @AlainHunkins
This episode is sponsored by Swanson Health. If you want to try any of Swanson Health’s great products for yourself, use code WORK20 for 20% off on swanson.com.
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Every one of us is capable of dishonesty. The reason why many companies and organizations in the past failed is that they simply didn’t practice integrity and wasn’t committed enough to follow ethical principles and values. When companies don’t talk about integrity, it creates an air of ambiguity about right and wrong.
In this episode, we are joined by Airbnb Chief Ethics Officer, Rob Chesnut to discuss the crucial element of the corporate culture - integrity! He is the author of "Intentional Integrity: How Smart Companies Can Lead An Ethical Revolution," where he offers a 6 step process for leaders to foster and manage a culture of integrity at work. He previously led eBay’s North America legal team, where he founded the Internet’s first e-commerce person to person platform Trust and Safety team.
Transform how your business gets done the right way as Robert talks about intentional integrity, common issues relating to integrity and ethics, and how we can guide our people to encourage integrity in the workplace!
Grab yourself a copy of Robert’s Intentional Integrity: How Smart Companies Can Lead An Ethical Revolution 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Why Robert wrote Intentional Integrity
- Robert’s definition of stakeholder and what’s essential for the longevity of a company
- Code of ethics, principles, and rules to protect the company, employees and its customers
- How silence about integrity creates ambiguities
- The issue with Donald Sterling and other workplaces ethical issues
- Most common integrity issues
- Guiding employees on what they should and shouldn’t post on social media
Connect with Robert
Resources:
- Intentional Integrity | Official Website
- Xenium Webinars
- DEI Resource Center
- COVID Resource Center
Everyone wants respect. From your assistant to the youngest member of your team, to the janitor of the company building, everyone yearns to be treated fairly and politely. But sadly, in reality, not many are willing to give others back the respect they want to be given.
Just as the platinum rule suggests, to be respected, you must first give respect.
Join me in this episode as we learn what respectful leadership is all about with the guru of respect, Gregg Ward!
Gregg is a thought leader, speaker, author, consultant, trainer, executive coach, and entrepreneur. He wrote the book The Respectful Leader: Seven Ways to Influence Without Intimidation presented in a true-to-life business fable where he shares how to build and show respect to all people on all levels regardless of ranks.
If you want to create a winning culture based on leading with respect, then make sure you listen to this episode as Gregg talks about his book and explains the respectful do’s so that you can avoid mediocrity and serve your people and company better!
Grab yourself a copy of Gregg Ward’s The Respectful Leader: Seven Ways to Influence Without Intimidation by Gregg Ward 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What made Gregg decide to write a non-fiction business fable
- Why command & control is not always the best management leadership style
- The direct and indirect cost of disrespect
- What is ‘Respectful leadership’?
- Why you shouldn’t fight disrespect with more disrespect
- Lessons and helpful practices you’ll learn from The Respectful Leader
Connect with Gregg
- Gregg Ward Group
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
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Technology has forced us all to adapt to the new world, including workplaces.
Employers are scrambling to adapt their technology to meet the needs of their people and keep up with the competition. Unfortunately, Some areas of organizations are slow to change, such as how we train and develop our employees, and Wendy Morgan and Maggie Hubbel, co-founders of Shift Bias, are here to change that.
In this episode, Morgan and Hubbel describe how virtual reality training can more effectively train people on diversity, equity, and inclusion. They call it the "empathy machine" because it allows people to walk in others' shoes.
Listen in for an engaging conversation about technology, new methods of training, and how they're helping the fight against COVID-19 using their technology.
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
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In this episode, you’ll get to learn more about the Latino culture as Carolina Castañeda del Río, the COO at Hacienda CDC, educates us about the Latino community and culture. She will help us better understand your Latino employees, and ultimately create an inclusive workplace.
Carolina shares her experience as a Mexican working in the US and talks about the differences in culture as well as the cultural aspect of being a Mexican and coming into America to work. She also talks about the common misconceptions and biases that surround the Latino community. Moreover, we cover the topic of diversity and implicit bias and how we can make our workplace more inclusive and less biased.
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Migrating from Mexico to the US
- Carolina’s working experience in the US
- Common themes of the Latino community
- The common biases and misconceptions when it comes to the Latino population
-
Diversity and implicit bias
-
Connect with Carolina Castañeda del Río
- LinkedIn
Resources
- LinkedIn
Harvard Implicit Bias Test
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Happiness matters. When we’re happy, we are more productive. But when a person is generally unhappy, that person will bring it into other areas of their lives. In the workplace, happier employees translate to increased productivity, better team coordination, and it creates a more positive workplace and culture.
In this episode, happiness researcher, Nic Marks, joins us to talk about happiness! Nic is the CEO and founder of Friday Pulse, a firm that aims to improve the world of work so that every day, all of us can work happier.
Find out how you can have a happier workplace as Nic will explain how he measures happiness, it’s drivers, and how leaders/managers can contribute to their people’s happiness. Nic also shares the five ways you need to know to increase happiness at work!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- The state of happiness in light of what’s happening today
- What drives happiness
- What led Nic to study the subject of happiness and how he made it his profession
- The policy side of happiness
- How Nic measures happiness
- Drivers of happiness at work
- Five ways to increase and experience happiness at work
Connect with Nic
- nicmarks.org
- Friday Pulse
Resources:
- The Happy Planet Index Nic Marks TEDx talk
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
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Stress is our response when we feel pressured or upset. When we are stressed, we become both mentally and physically unstable. Though we can’t live without stress, we can learn how to keep it at bay.
Is stress getting to you lately? Or most of the time? Worry no more because today, we will talk about effective stress management tips to help you live a balanced life.
In this episode, Genella Macintyre, the author of “5 Steps to Reducing Stress: Recognizing What Works”, joins the show to talk about essential strategies on understanding stress and how to reduce it.
She is a corporate trainer, a psychology expert, and the President of Partners in Discovery Ltd., she is on a mission to improve people’s quality of living by teaching them how to manage and reduce their stress.
Discover what your stress triggers are and recognize what works for you as Genella offers practical advice on relaxation and lowering your stress levels that can calm your mind and body.
Grab a copy of 5 Steps to Reducing Stress: Recognizing What Works 👉 here.
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How much is too much stress
- How stress is similar to carrying a luggage
- Identifying what triggers stress
- The impact of stress when we don’t manage it
- Stress cycles
- How can we help people who are under stress
- Steps to reducing stress
- The role of leaders in reducing their people’s stress levels
Connect with Genella
- Partners in Discovery
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Giving and receiving constructive criticism is a regular part of work. When done well, it can help someone understand strengths and weaknesses, and it guides them to improve in specific areas.
Feedback is a valuable tool in the workplace. In this episode, we’re going to talk about the value and benefits of constructive feedback in the workplace and how to do it right with Sarah Torres-Ferrick!
Sarah is a human resources officer and the creator of the FUN Feedback Framework. She has worked over a decade with executives at government agencies on growing and sustaining high performing workforces.
Find out how you can give constructive feedback without having to worry about being awkward or feeling unpleasant as Sarah shares her process as well as the mistakes we need to avoid.
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How to get better at giving feedback to other people
- Practicing constructive criticism
- More listening and less talking
- Roleplay about constructive criticism and feedback
- How Sarah does follow-ups
- Mistakes people tend to make about giving constructive feedback
Connect with Sarah
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
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Anne Donovan, President of Xenium HR, and Brandon Laws, Director of Marketing at Xenium HR, co-host and moderate a discussion with Economist John Mitchell about the state of the economy during the artificially induced recession, coined as the "Great Pause."
What we cover:
- Differences between the Great Recession and the Great Pause
- Policy responses by political leaders
- Current Data
- How will we come out of this?
- Long-term impacts
Watch this on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--4AIa2XYHA
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
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Not everyone feels appreciated in the same way. In the workplace, many quit their jobs because they don’t feel appreciated.
People express and receive appreciation in different ways; the Same goes for their motivation and encouragement. To improve their performance, leaders, and managers, you must learn to express it in a way that’s meaningful to them, express it in their language.
Find out how to communicate genuine appreciation as Dr. Paul White joins us in this episode to talk about the five languages of appreciation in the workplace! He is a psychologist, speaker, consultant and co-authored the book, The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace with Gary Chapman, wh, the author of The 5 Love Languages.
Today, Dr. Paul White walks us through the languages of appreciation and how we can use it at work and in our everyday life. He shares about how we can make people aware of our language and what we can do to better enhance our relationship, and ultimately transform the workplace!
Grab yourself a copy of The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace 👉 here
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Dr. Paul White’s motivation for writing the book
- How workplaces and industries are responding to the appreciation languages
- The difference between the five love languages and the language of appreciation in the workplace
- Dr. Paul’s learnings when the book came out vs. now
- Recognition vs appreciation
- How to speak another person’s language of appreciation
- How to use and apply the languages of appreciation in your daily life
- Understanding other’s language of appreciation
Connect with Dr. Paul White
- Dr. Paul White’s website
- LinkedIn Group
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Are you having bad manager problems? Or maybe you’re having a tough time dealing with a rude co-worker? Are you at your limit, can’t finish your work and can’t cope with the unpleasant work environment anymore?
Whatever your issues may be, you must learn how to protect your employees or workmates and prevent toxic workplaces from developing and employees from violating others’ rights.
Join me in this episode as we explore more of the HR world, the law, and employment rights with the funniest podcast duo, Marc and Kate! They are both employment lawyers and together, they host the Hostile Work Environment podcast!
Marck and Kate will share their expertise and some crazy workplace stories and the insane cases they’ve dealt with!
Make sure you listen to this fun episode as they share their smart takes with a splash of humor on the HR world and employment laws!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Community and engagement pods
- A good way to show up and lead
- The most insane case that Marc & Kate ever discussed
- Direct evidence and age discrimination
- Lessons for employers and HR people from the bloomin' onion case
Connect with Marc & Kate
- Hostile Work Environment Podcast
-
- YouTube Channel
-
Marc
-
LinkedIn
-
Twitter
-
Kate
-
LinkedIn
- tHRive Law & Consulting
This episode's sponsor is The Personal Revolution Podcast Ready for your own Personal Revolution? Listen to all episodes of the show here: https://www.himalaya.com/revolution1
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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While our culture, values, and beliefs differ, we all have a common denominator: to have our needs met.
As human beings, we all have the same basic needs, but how we value, prioritize and apply it determines the trajectory of our life.
Every day, we are driven by the need to meet our needs. We do what we do because we want to feel satisfied or we unconsciously fulfill it because it’s part of our human instincts.
When you meet these universal human needs, you’ll experience joy and fulfillment. But when you don’t meet these needs, you’ll feel dissatisfied and feeling miserable.
What are these universal human needs? How do we meet them and how does this play a role in the workplace?
Jennifer Blankl, a Certified Relationship & life coach, speaker, trainer, and workshop leader, joins us to talk about these universal needs. She helps professional individuals in their struggles in order to live a successfully fulfilled life.
Find out how you can meet your primal needs as Jennifer breaks it all down for us! Understanding these needs will help us unlock a life filled with fulfillment and joy!
Learn more about you! Take the Six Human Needs Assessment 👉 here
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How these universal needs play a role in what’s happening in the world
- What growth means and how to determine if you’re growing
- Our human need to connect
- The importance of significance
- Certainty and uncertainty
- Living a significant life
- How we can use the six universal human needs in the workplace
Connect with Jennifer Blankl
- Jennifer’s website
Resources:
- Learn Your Top 2 Needs
This episode's sponsor is The Personal Revolution Podcast Ready for your own Personal Revolution? Listen to all episodes of the show here: https://www.himalaya.com/revolution1
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Conflict is inevitable. While many avoid it, it’s not necessarily bad. In fact, conflict may lead to something great! You might not agree, but conflict can be good once in a while. It opens doors for opportunities and growth. If your team is avoiding conflict, you and your team might be missing out on innovation and productivity.
So, how do we embrace conflict to get better results?
In this episode, you’re going to learn why conflict is beautiful with CrisMarie Campbell and Susan Clarke, the authors of the book, “The Beauty of Conflict: Harnessing Your Team’s Competitive Advantage”.
CrisMarie and Susan are also the founders of Thrive!, a coaching and consulting firm that specializes in helping individuals, leaders, teams and entire companies learn how to deal with differences to ignite creativity and innovation.
Find out why conflict is beneficial to your organization as CrisMarie and Susan share their expertise on how to deal with those “oh shit!” moments in the workplace and at home.
Embrace conflict now and make it work to your team’s advantage!
Grab yourself a copy of CrisMarie Campbell and Susan Clarke’s The Beauty of Conflict: Harnessing Your Team’s Competitive Advantage 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Benefits of conflict
- Oh $h!t! Moments
- Why opting out of conflict is a bad idea
- Building your capacity to tolerate tension
- Desire for efficiency
- Vulnerability + Curiosity = Creativity
- The levels of opting in
- How teams should utilize open discussions about team norms
Connect with CrisMarie & Susan
- LinkedIn - CrisMarie Campbell
- LinkedIn - Susan Clarke
- Thrive!
-
- Facebook Page
Resources:
- The Beauty of Conflict Podcast
- The Beauty of Conflict for Coupled: Igniting Passion, Intimacy and Connection in your Relationship by CrisMarie Campbell & Susan Clarke
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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We’ve all had the experience of being in a team, where everyone and everything is just not working harmoniously together. What do you do in those times when you’re involved in a team that doesn’t match your interest? How do you avoid issues and build trust among the members?
In order to drive change and business growth, leaders must form strategic teams. How do you get the right people to work for the right teams, in the right roles, and with the right goals?
In this episode, you’ll learn how strategic teams are formed and what defines them with Daniel Wolf.
Daniel is the President and Co-Founder of Dewar Sloan, a firm that provides advice to executives and governance to leaders about teams and strategy executions.
Daniel is also the author of Strategic Teams and Development along with two other books about strategic direction and execution management for leaders.
He will share his expertise on strategy, building strategic teams, and how to fully execute team strategies. We talk about the talent blocks and beams that cover expertise, experience, behavior, competence, and many more! We also cover the issue of building trust within the team, why effective teams are cultural assets to an organization, as well as Dan’s core model in building strategic teams!
If you want to build an effective team and make strategy happen then make sure to give this episode a listen!
Grab yourself a copy of Daniel Wolf’s Strategic Teams and Development: The Fieldbook for People Making Strategy Happen 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What makes us a strategic team
- The types of strategic teams within organizations
- What happens when someone is involved in a team that doesn’t match their interest
- Talent blocks and beams
- Why effective teams are our cultural assets
- How teams are formed?
- Dan’s core model for building strategic teams
- The ideal size for a strategic team and their roles
- Ways to avoid personal issues and develop trust within a team
- Developing a habit of zooming in and out of issues
- How strategic teams develop and evolve
Connect with Daniel Wolf
Resources:
- Dewar Sloan
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Do you ever wonder why many people in their 20s are leaving their jobs more often than before? Maybe you’re thinking - “It’s because they’re millennials, it’s who they are.”
But did it ever cross your mind that we’re irresponsibly labeling them based on age, what year they were born, and what group they’re in without really getting to know or without really trying to understand them?
The workplace is rapidly changing. Employers need to shift their focus in order to adapt to the future workplace. Toxic company culture, work-life balance, workplace stereotypes, these are just some of the gaps that need to be bridged in today’s work environment.
Join me in this episode, as I talk to Eric Termunede the author of Rethink Work about how we should rethink work in order to keep the right people. He is a global leader and keynote speaker who speaks about people and work. He’s on a mission to empower companies to build better teams, establish deep trust, and ultimately create an environment where everyone thrives together!
Find out the fix to your workplace problem as we tackle issues on company culture, workplace communications, as well as workforce stereotypes. Eric shares his take on how the future of the workplace would be and what HR’s and employers can do to adapt quickly. He also talks about his story and how he got into where he is right now. Moreover, you’ll learn how you can keep your company ahead of others as he explains the One Degree Shift approach to build a great place to work where everyone is fulfilled!
Grab yourself a copy of Eric’s Rethink Work: Finding & Keeping The Right Talent 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- Why people in their 20s are quitting their jobs
- The huge communication gap between companies and job hunters
- The problem with job descriptions
- Deconstructing generations
- Understanding the HART of your team
- The 1% Approach
- Values that inspired Eric to do the work that he does
Connect with Eic Termuende
- Eric Termuende - Website
Resources:
- Bigger than Work | Eric Termuende | TEDxBCIT
- Basecamp CTO and co-founder on Why it’s so crazy at work
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Paige Tamlyn joins us to describe why 'OK Boomer' and 'Lazy Millennials' are hurtful to people, and how we can better communicate with each generation.
Resources: https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/employee-relations/pages/ok-boomer-and-lazy-millennial-shouldnt-be-ignored.aspx?
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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Connect with David Lee Jensen
Resources
- The Naked Interview: Hiring Without Regret by David Jensen
- The Hiring Academy
- Never Go with Your Gut with Dr. Gleb Tsipursky
- Never Go With Your Gut: How Pioneering Leaders Make the Best Decisions and Avoid Business Disasters (Avoid Terrible Advice, Cognitive Biases, and Poor Decisions) by Gleb Tsipursky
Hiring the wrong people can cost you tons! Not just tons of money but tons of time as well. On the other hand, hiring the right employee not only helps your business but also creates a positive impact in your workplace, resulting in a healthy company culture.
In this episode, hiring and interview expert, David Lee Jensen, joins us to talk about how to hire the right people for your business. He is the best selling author of the book The Naked Interview: Hiring Without Regret and the founder of The Hiring Academy. David is also an entrepreneur and a speaker who travels the world to talk about team building, culture, hiring, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Find out how you can hire the right people for your organization as David shares tips on how to hire the right person, what questions to ask, as well as his approach to the whole hiring process!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- How to choose people correctly
- Questions to determine whether or not your organization has hiring problems
- The truths you need to know about hiring
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Connect with David Lee Jensen
Resources
- The Naked Interview: Hiring Without Regret by David Jensen
- The Hiring Academy
- Never Go with Your Gut with Dr. Gleb Tsipursky
- Never Go With Your Gut: How Pioneering Leaders Make the Best Decisions and Avoid Business Disasters (Avoid Terrible Advice, Cognitive Biases, and Poor Decisions) by Gleb Tsipursky
There are many ways to lead but great leaders throughout history have one thing in common that made them great. And that is being responsive and proactive when it comes to managing their people and dealing with external and internal issues. Being a responsive leader means leading with the heart.
Responsive leadership means winning and thriving anywhere. But how does one become a responsive leader? What are the skills and the characteristics leaders must have in order to develop into someone that takes advantage of opportunities and easily adapts to any environment?
In this episode, leadership expert Jackie Jenkins-Scott joins us to talk about the secrets of leadership! She is a nationally recognized leader who founded JJS Advising and wrote The 7 Secrets of Responsive Leadership: Drive Change, Manage Transitions, and Help Any Organization Turn Around wherein she provides guidance with practical advice on how to build the skills needed to become a responsive leader.
Jackie also talks about how she deals with people who oppose her point of view. Learn what it really means to become a responsive leader and why it matters as Jackie shares her wisdom on how you can best drive your company forward!
Grab yourself a copy of Jackie’s The 7 Secrets of Responsive Leadership: Drive Change, Manage Transitions, and Help Any Organization Turn Around 👉 here!
In this episode, you will learn about:
- What it means to become a “Responsive Leader”
- The 4 leadership characteristics that make up a responsive leadership
- Systematic leadership vs. responsive leadership
- Leading with a heart
- How to manage those who oppose your opinion
What did you think of this episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
Follow Xenium on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Connect with Jackie Jenkins-Scott
-
LinkedIn
-
JJS Advising
Brandon Laws and Lacey Partipio discuss Coronavirus impacts and recommendations for employers.
For the latest information on Coronavirus from Xenium, visit: https://www.xeniumhr.com/blog/wellness/coronavirus-prevention-and-info/
Connect with Lacey Partipilo
What did you think of this short bonus episode? Give us a 5-star rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts, or take our survey.
Contact Brandon: Email Brandon.Laws@xeniumhr.com or connect on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram
Learn more about Xenium HR at xeniumhr.com
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