

HR Mixtape
WRKdefined Podcast Network
HR Mixtape is a weekly human resources and business leadership podcast for HR professionals, people leaders, and executives navigating the real work of managing people. Episodes cover human resources strategy, HR compliance, workplace culture, leadership development, employee experience, payroll and HR technology, and the future of work.
Whether you work in HR, talent management, people operations, or business leadership, HR Mixtape offers practical insights, expert conversations, and real-world perspectives to help you lead with confidence in today’s evolving workplace.
Whether you work in HR, talent management, people operations, or business leadership, HR Mixtape offers practical insights, expert conversations, and real-world perspectives to help you lead with confidence in today’s evolving workplace.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 29, 2023 • 25min
Nurturing Curiosity and Understanding in the Workplace with Dee Kendrix
Discover how curiosity and connection can create a space of belonging in your organization.
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson is joined by Dee Kendrix, a leadership expert and CEO of DC Global Group. They discuss the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, specifically focusing on creating a sense of belonging. They explore the factors that contribute to people feeling like they belong or don't belong in a particular work environment. Tune in to gain insights on how HR professionals can better support and foster a culture of belonging.
Guest(s): Dee Kendrix, CEO & Chief Strategist, DC GLOBAL GROUP

Aug 22, 2023 • 19min
Minimizing Risk and Ensuring Compliance: OSHA Strategies for HR with Michele A. Mathews
Workplace safety is crucial, and OSHA regulations play a big role in ensuring it.
In this episode, Shari interviews Michelle A. Mathews about OSHA regulations and the common mistakes HR professionals make when preparing for an OSHA inspection. Michelle highlights the need for proper documentation and not providing too much information during an inspection. This episode provides valuable information for HR professionals looking to navigate OSHA regulations effectively.
Guest(s): Michele A. Mathews, Owner, Mathews’ HR & Safety Consulting Services

Aug 15, 2023 • 28min
Shaping Perspectives and Changing Narratives with Kim Crowder
Ready to challenge the traditional narrative of leadership?
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson is joined by Kim Crowder, Founder and CEO of Kim Crowder Consulting. They discuss the importance of diversity, inclusion, and equity in leadership, and how it impacts the success and longevity of companies. Kim shares her insights and experiences as an executive leadership speaker and coach and provides actionable tools for building healthy and people-centered workplaces. Tune in for practical advice and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about work.
Guest(s): Kim Crowder, Founder & CEO, Kim Crowder Consulting

Aug 8, 2023 • 19min
The Evolution of Recruiting Technology: A Conversation with Steven Rothberg
How has technology shaped the recruitment landscape?
Join us as we dive into the evolution of job boards, mobile smartphones, and more in our informative podcast episode! In this episode, Steven Rothberg, a seasoned veteran in the talent acquisition field, discusses the most impactful shifts in recruiting technology, including the dawn of the internet and the rise of mobile smartphones. He explores the challenges of using text and social media tools in recruitment while avoiding bias. Steven shares insights into his platform, The College Recruiter, and how it stands out for students and grads. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of talent acquisition.
Guest(s): Steven Rothberg, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, CollegeRecruiter.com

Aug 3, 2023 • 25min
From Toxic Leadership to Transformation: A Journey in the Navy with T. Ryan Davis
Discover the secrets to creating an intentional culture that drives success!
In this episode, Shari interviews Thomas “Ryan” Davis about his extraordinary journey from flying missions around the globe to leading a squadron of hundreds in the Navy and now running his own business. Ryan shares his experience with BP-47, a squadron for which he became the commanding officer. He reveals the challenges he faced, including a history of misconduct and a toxic culture. Ryan's story highlights the importance of leadership and the transformative power of turning a dysfunctional organization around. Tune in to learn more about Ryan's inspiring journey and his passion for helping others.
Guest(s): Thomas "Ryan: Davis, Founder, Take Flight Leadership

Aug 2, 2023 • 24min
Unlocking Passion and Purpose in Leadership with Marc Koehler
Looking for a fresh perspective on leadership?
In this episode, Mark Koehler, a former US Navy nuclear submarine officer turned leadership consultant. Mark shares his experience in the Navy and how it shaped his leadership skills. He also talks about his journey from wanting to become a jet fighter pilot to being disqualified due to a physical limitation. Join us as we delve into Mark's transition from Navy life to his current role as a leadership consultant.
Guest(s): Marc Koehler, Founder, Lead with Purpose

Aug 1, 2023 • 23min
Becoming a Better Leader: Leading Like a Buffalo with Dan Kopp
Feeling overwhelmed as a leader? Find out how to navigate your emotions and lead with confidence.
In this episode, a military veteran, Dan Kopp talks about the leadership lessons he learned during his service and how they apply to the corporate world. Dan emphasizes the importance of taking care of your people and highlights the universal nature of leadership. They discuss how leadership styles may change between different contexts and reflect on the transferability of military leadership to the private sector. This conversation offers valuable insights for the HR community, and anyone interested in effective leadership.
Guest(s): Dan Kopp, Author | Veteran | Founder, Leading Like a Buffalo

Jul 25, 2023 • 20min
Exploring Cannabis Law with retired Judge Mary Celeste
If you're curious to learn more about cannabis law and the challenges it presents, this episode is a must-listen.
We are joined by Judge Mary A. Celeste (ret.), an educator and legal authority in the field of cannabis law. Mary stresses the need to have a comprehensive understanding of all applicable laws related to marijuana use in the workplace. This includes recreational and medical marijuana laws, disability statutes, discrimination statutes, and appellate cases. It's crucial to be aware of any testing parameters set by your state or city as well. Tune in to gain insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis law and its implications for the workplace.
Guest(s): Judge Mary A. Celeste (ret.), Speaker, Educator and Consultant

Jul 21, 2023 • 18min
Live from SHRM: HR Practitioners’ Questions Answered with Kate Grimaldi
Just a few weeks ago, the world’s largest gathering of HR professionals took place – the SHRM Conference 2023. Ideas were exchanged, game-changing trends discussed, and perhaps the most enlightening part of it all, attendees submitted real-world, pressing HR questions.
In this episode, Kate and Shari tackle questions from HR practitioners recorded live at SHRM. They discuss questions around return to the office, keeping the remote employee engaged, dealing with a biased leader, HRIS utilization and much more.
Guest(s): Kate Grimaldi, Senior Director of Enterprise People Strategy, Paylocity

Jul 20, 2023 • 24min
The Rise of AI in HR Recruitment: Revolutionizing the Hiring Process with Thomas Carnahan
Excited to dive into the world of AI in HR recruitment as we explore the potential and challenges of automating the hiring process.
Thomas Carnahan discusses how employers are seeking easier ways to identify successful candidates and automate the hiring process. From conducting job analyses to searching LinkedIn profiles and conducting general Google searches, AI technology is being used to identify potential applicants. While it may not be ready for Skynet just yet, employers need to be mindful of setting boundaries for AI in recruitment.
Guest(s): Thomas Carnahan, Manager of Pay Equity Services, Berkshire Associates


