What happens when HR strategy genuinely aligns with company mission? Amy Kruglak, the first VP of People at medical AI company Elucid, reveals the powerful impact of intentional employee experiences in this thought-provoking conversation.

After taking a post-COVID break to recharge from the exhaustion many HR leaders experienced, Amy found herself drawn to Elucid's mission of cardiovascular disease prevention—a cause deeply personal to her after losing her father to sudden cardiac disease. This alignment between personal values and organizational purpose forms the foundation of her approach to people leadership.

Working at the intersection of regulated medical technology and cutting-edge AI presents unique HR challenges. Amy details how she's navigated these complexities by immersing herself in the business fundamentals, developing specialized onboarding programs that help technical talent quickly understand Elucid's innovative products, and creating benefits that reflect the company's mission—like providing cardiac CT scans to all employees.

Throughout the conversation, Amy emphasizes that effective HR leadership requires both data mastery and human connection. "I'm kind of a data junkie," she admits, highlighting how metrics around hiring, compensation, and performance give her the credibility needed to partner strategically with business leaders. Yet she balances this analytical approach with a commitment to honest feedback and personalized employee experiences that simply aren't possible in larger organizations.

As Elucid celebrates reaching 100 employees, Amy offers advice for HR professionals stepping into executive roles: "Learn the business." Understanding how people drive organizational success transforms HR from a support function into a strategic powerhouse that directly impacts the bottom line.

Whether you're leading people operations in a regulated industry, navigating growth at a mission-driven company, or seeking to create more intentional employee experiences, Amy's insights provide a roadmap for elevating HR's impact. Subscribe to the HRchat Show for more conversations with innovative people leaders who are reshaping the future of work.

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The landmark 800th episode of the HRchat Show welcomes Chad Sowash, the dynamic co-host of "HR's Most Dangerous Podcast" – the Chad and Cheese Show. 

Chad has worked in the HR, Talent Acquisition, and HR Tech space for over 20 years consulting hundreds of Fortune 500 companies like AT&T, Lockheed Martin, and The Ford Motor Company. Chad is a former Army Infantry drill sergeant, who cut his teeth in online recruitment in the late 1990s. He went on to build Randstad's first military veteran hiring program. Today, you can find him behind the mic at events, and/or working hard to challenge the norm.

This celebration episode delivers a masterclass in straight talk about what's working, what's broken, and what's next in HR and talent acquisition.

Drawing from his career journey from Army infantry drill sergeant to HR tech innovator, Chad shares how military leadership training gave him a competitive edge in corporate environments. He pulls no punches discussing the need for HR to stop identifying as cost centers and start demonstrating real business impact. Chad emphasizes. "Nothing happens without human beings doing the jobs. We are the beating heart of every organization."

The conversation tackles veteran hiring initiatives, where Chad distinguishes between companies seeking actual outcomes versus those merely checking diversity boxes. This extends to his candid assessment of recent DEI program rollbacks.

Looking toward the future, Chad warns about "vaporware" in HR tech – over-promised technologies that can't deliver. He emphasizes the importance of bringing diverse voices into HR conversations, sharing how his podcast deliberately seeks experts from outside the industry to provide fresh perspectives on workforce challenges.

Bill Banham and Chad also discuss the best HR and Recruitment events in the calendar, including RecFest, UNLEASH, HR Tech and Transform. 

Ready to revolutionize your approach to talent acquisition? This episode delivers actionable insights that challenge conventional thinking and inspire meaningful change. 

Subscribe to the HRchat Podcast for more conversations that push boundaries and redefine what's possible in the world of work.

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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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From laptop-toting C-sections to spreadsheet nightmares, employee leave management has long been one of HR's most complex and frustrating challenges. Mahima Chawla, CEO and co-founder of Cocoon, is changing all that with a revolutionary approach to leave administration.

Mahima shares how a chance conversation sparked her journey into the leave management space. When a colleague described bringing her laptop to her C-section to file for state benefits, Mahima was shocked by the fragmented nature of employee leave – with different time allocations, multiple payment sources, and employees left to navigate complicated paperwork during already stressful life transitions. After speaking with dozens of HR leaders who universally described leave as "an absolute nightmare," she recognized an opportunity to transform this overlooked but critical function.

Cocoon tackles five major headaches for HR teams: navigating complex compliance regulations, managing multi-source payroll calculations, coordinating intricate workflows, improving employee experiences, and providing valuable benchmarking data. What makes their approach unique is their focus on automation – Mahima explains that 95% of leave management involves objective decisions perfectly suited for software handling, creating consistency while freeing HR professionals from administrative burdens.

Beyond streamlining processes, Cocoon is addressing financial barriers that often prevent employees from taking needed leave. By ensuring employees understand their payment sources and helping them access entitled funds, the platform supports both employers and workers during critical life moments. Looking ahead, Mahima envisions expanding Cocoon's capabilities across more industries and geographies, while predicting that the definition of "leave" itself will continue evolving beyond traditional categories to embrace more of life's realities.

Connect with Mahima on LinkedIn and follow Cocoon's page for updates on their appearances at major industry events including HR Transform and DMEC in 2025.

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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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Dr. Rochelle Haynes returns to the pod to discuss her OpenHR framework, a comprehensive approach to helping organizations thrive with today's blended workforces. As founder and CEO of Crowd Potential Consulting, Rochelle draws on her psychology background and PhD research to address how modern workplaces can effectively engage diverse talent pools spanning full-time employees, contractors, remote workers, and AI systems.

Rochelle challenges the false dichotomy between remote and in-office work, explaining that the real conversation should center on providing wider access to meaningful employment. Despite some corporate pushback against flexibility and diversity initiatives, she observes that younger generations continue demanding work environments that accommodate their lifestyles and prioritize wellbeing. Companies forcing rigid structures face higher turnover rates as workers—particularly Gen Z—readily abandon environments that lack engagement opportunities.

The heart of Rochelle's approach lies in her OpenHR framework, consisting of four interconnected components: Open Rules (compliance and strategy), Open Tools (digital frameworks and cybersecurity), Open Skills (evolving competencies), and Open Thrills (inclusion and recognition). Built on a foundation of open culture, this model guides organizations in creating environments where diverse worker types can contribute as valued team members rather than second-class citizens. Her bestselling book provides practical roadmaps, questionnaires, and 90-day implementation plans for organizations ready to transform their approach to talent management.

Perhaps most revolutionary is Rochelle's advocacy for skills-based talent deployment rather than rigid job descriptions. This approach allows companies to identify and utilize employees' diverse abilities across departments, potentially addressing the disengagement often mischaracterized as "laziness" in younger workers. By creating more exploratory performance reviews that uncover employees' wider interests and talents, organizations can unlock hidden potential while creating more engaging work experiences. Ready to transform how your organization thinks about talent? Visit crowdpotential.co.uk or connect with Rochelle on LinkedIn to begin your OpenHR journey.

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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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In a world where technology unfolds rapidly, the dialogue on workforce sustainability shifts towards a central theme: upskilling. This HRchat episode features Tan Moorthy, the new CEO at Revature, where he shares powerful insights on the imperative for organizations to embrace continuous learning and adapt their workforce to the evolving demands of artificial intelligence and technology. Tan's extensive expertise in human resources and technology provides listeners with a unique perspective on why traditional hiring methods fall short in today’s market.

The discussion unpacks pivotal strategies on how companies can shift their focus from solely hiring experienced talent to cultivating existing employees’ skill sets, enabling them to navigate the challenges posed by AI and tech advancements. With an alarming 80% of software engineers needing upskilling by 2027, this episode urges HR leaders to recognize the pressing need to foster a skills-first culture. Tan emphasizes that human potential can flourish when paired with technology, creating unique opportunities for growth and innovation.

This engaging conversation not only addresses the skills gap facing many industries today, but it also serves as a crucial reminder that developing a learning mindset is essential for every professional, regardless of their field. Whether you're a business leader, HR practitioner, or simply interested in the future of work, Tan’s insights will resonate with you. Tune in to discover the depth of knowledge shared, and take the first step in equipping yourself and your workforce for the inevitable changes to come. Don’t forget to follow us for more captivating content and be a part of our community dedicated to understanding the evolving world of work!

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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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Kul Mahay returns to the HRchat Show to preview the second annual Human-Centred Leadership Conference happening in Derby, UK in May.

With 30+ years of experience in unlocking human potential, Kul explains why he believes this isn't your typical leadership conference. Forget the parade of speakers inducing what he calls a "hypnotic state." Instead, this carefully crafted experience blends powerful keynotes, real-world case studies, mindfulness sessions, and high-energy Disrupt talks to tell a cohesive story about the power of putting people first.

The theme this year is 'How can Human Centred Leadership Drive Workplace Cohesion and Performance?'

The four conference workstreams are: 

1. As organizations talk about rolling back DEI initiatives, how can HCL provide an alternative perspective?
2. Why people matter in driving workplace performance.
3. Why the wellbeing of our leaders is critical and what can we do about it?
4. What do healthy workplaces look like and how does that impact performance?

Ready to transform your leadership approach and organizational culture? Limited tickets are available at humancentredleadership.co.uk. Join forward-thinking leaders who understand that putting humans first isn't just the right thing to do—it's the smart business move that delivers results.

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The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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In this episode of the HRchat Show, we delve into the urgent need for organizations to reevaluate their employee health benefit offerings. Lindsey Gage-Cole, Chief Transformation Officer at GroupHEALTH Benefit Solutions, discusses the significant disconnect between employee expectations and actual employer actions when it comes to wellness support. A staggering 90% of Canadians believe in the necessity of support for well-being, yet fewer than half notice their employers taking action. This episode examines the transformative power of ancillary benefits, once seen as mere perks like massage therapy but now evolving to encompass holistic wellness programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of employees across various life stages.

Listeners will gain insights into the vital role that ongoing reviews of benefit plans play in responding to changing employee demographics and emerging health trends. We highlight the importance of tailoring wellness initiatives to address the unique dynamics of the workplace today, marked by an increase in generations coexisting under one roof and distinct challenges they face. If you’re an HR professional looking to enhance your organization’s approach to employee well-being, you won't want to miss the actionable strategies shared by Lindsay. We conclude with a call to action for listeners to reassess their wellness initiatives and consider how they can better support their workforce's needs. Join us for an enlightening discussion that promises to reshape your understanding of what employee well-being truly means in the modern workplace!

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Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast

The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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Ready to dive into the transformative world of employment verification? Join us as we explore how Chris Harper, the CEO of ZippedScript, is changing the HR landscape one credential at a time. With his background as an entrepreneur, Harper outlines his journey to creating an innovative platform that simplifies education verification and accelerates the hiring process for businesses. ZippedScript’s unique approach allows candidates to pre-verify their credentials, eliminating long waiting times and building immediate trust with employers, a crucial aspect in today’s fast-paced hiring environment. 

Throughout our conversation, Harper sheds light on the growing concerns of credential fraud in recruitment, emphasizing how technology can safeguard against this issue. As technology advances and AI becomes more integral to HR operations, we delve into Harper’s vision for leveraging these tools effectively. His insights on global challenges in background checks illustrate the importance of adapting to varying jurisdictions and how ZippedScript is positioned to make a meaningful impact worldwide. 

This episode is packed with strategies, inspiration, and an optimistic view of the future of HR tech. Don't miss out on this engaging discussion that promises to be both informative and thought-provoking. If you enjoy these insights, we encourage you to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help spread the word about how technology is reshaping the future of work.

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Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast

The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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Discover the game-changing potential of video within human resources in this insightful episode. Join us as we speak with Amy Casciotti, Vice President of HR at TechSmith, who shares her valuable experiences on leveraging video to enhance HR efficiency, employee onboarding, and training. Amy emphasizes the critical role video plays in fostering engagement, particularly in the modern landscape of hybrid work environments. With a focus on creating efficient communication methods, she discusses how HR can implement video for onboarding, making essential benefits information more accessible and understandable through visual aids. 

The conversation also delves into some challenges HR faces in engaging remote teams and how personalizing video messages can put a face to the name, helping employees feel more connected. Learn about best practices for producing high-quality videos that capture attention and promote interaction, ensuring that training materials are effective and engaging. Amy’s insights into utilizing AI for localized training suggest that the future of HR lies in adaptable, inclusive communication methods. 

Whether you’re an HR professional seeking innovative solutions or a business leader interested in effective employee engagement strategies, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways that can elevate your HR practices. Tune in now to implement the transformative power of video in your organization and keep your workforce connected! Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!

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Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast

The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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In this episode of the HRchat show, we talk about world of work-focused podcasting. Join us as we delve into the journey of WRKdefined, a new-ish podcast network founded by William Tincup and Ryan Leary.

William and Ryan share how they aim to uplift independent podcasters and create a space where work-related conversations thrive in various formats. 

You’ll learn about the necessity of adapting to changing audience preferences and why collaborative efforts matter in cultivating a vibrant podcasting community. 

Throughout this episode, we touch on significant themes such as mental health, recruitment, and the influence of technology in shaping workplace dynamics. 

Join us for a conversation that not only presents valuable insights but encourages you to reflect on your own work experiences. 

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Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast

The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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Are we ready for the AI revolution in coaching? This episode features an insightful dialogue with Joel DiGirolamo from the International Coaching Federation. We delve into how AI is reshaping the coaching landscape, enhancing communication and productivity while also raising ethical questions. Joel shares valuable insights on the rigorous standards necessary to harness AI in a way that prioritizes clients' needs, addressing both the promises and risks associated with this technology.

From data privacy concerns to the potential for algorithmic bias, we explore the complexities of integrating AI in coaching. Joel emphasizes the significance of clear agreements around client data and the need for transparency in AI processes to ensure ethical practices. As the coaching profession evolves, we discuss the responsibility of coaches, organizations, and tech developers to create an environment where AI can be a supportive tool rather than a disruptive force.

Tune in to hear about the ICF's initiative to set standards for AI in coaching, ensuring that best practices lead the way. If you're curious about the future of coaching and how it can adapt to technological changes, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation, and let’s explore how we can build a future where coaching empowers individuals, supported by the advancements of AI. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on this fascinating intersection of human engagement and technology!

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Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast

The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.

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