Using AI to Create Safe and Inclusive Workplaces

Host: Sarah Morgan

Guest: Torin Ellis, Principal, Torin Ellis Brand

Welcome back to the Inclusion Crusade, where I am on a mission to create workplaces where employees feel safe, seen and supported. One episode at a time. This week I sat down with Torin Ellis to discuss the importance of creating inclusive workplaces and the role of AI in reducing bias in HR

In this episode, we explore … 

• Torin’s career journey in from talent acquisition to DEI to multi-faceted entrepreneur
• Why Torin’s commitment to DEI is as strong as ever
• Torin’s recently published research about AI in HR
• Recommendations from Torin on how to stay focused and thrive in today’s tumultuous landscape

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. HR is about to change for good with the power of Human Intelligence. By combining AI and the rich data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence answers HR’s most demanding needs…unlocking insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement — ultimately elevating performance and, above all, people. The future of HR has arrived. Will you – and your company – be a part of it? Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com and join their force for good.

Protecting our Children: What You Need to Know

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Patrick Boese, Content Creator and Host of My Friends Call Me Pat

Summary

In this episode, we dive into our annual Oscars predictions, and discuss the major categories including Best Picture, Best Director, and acting nominations. We reflect on the quality of films released over the past year, share personal insights on various nominees, and analyze the performances and direction of standout films. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of cinema and the significance of independent filmmaking in the current industry.

Chapters

00:00 Oscars Predictions and Movie Reflections

05:31 Best Picture Nominees Overview

08:11 Supporting Actor/Actress Insights

14:14 Leading Actor/Actress Contenders

20:31 Best Picture and Director Predictions

58:45 Final Thoughts on Oscar Nominations

Protecting our Children: What You Need to Know

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Gavin Portnoy, Vice President of NCMEC's Strategic Advancement & Partnerships Division

Summary

In this episode, Steve and Trish discuss the critical work of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) with Gavin Portnoy. They explore the organization's mission to protect children from online exploitation, the importance of parental awareness, and the resources available for prevention. The conversation highlights the evolving dangers children face in the digital age, the role of technology in child safety, and the need for community engagement and legislative support to combat these issues effectively.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to NCMEC

05:17 Importance of Online Safety for Children

07:53 Preventative Measures Against Online Exploitation

13:40 Resources for Parents and Caregivers

19:12 The Role of Technology in Child Safety

24:42 How Organizations can Support the Cause

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

HR is about to change for good with the power of Human Intelligence.

By combining AI and the rich data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence answers HR’s most demanding needs…

…unlocking insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement — ultimately elevating performance and, above all, people.

The future of HR has arrived. Will you – and your company – be a part of it?

Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com and join their force for good.

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Are you ready to crush the year ahead? The 2025 Priorities for Business Leaders Report from our friends at Paychex is here, and it's packed with insights from 600 companies on how to drive growth and get ahead.

This isn't your average data dump — it includes actionable strategies on everything from attracting new hires to improving employee retention, managing HR compliance, and leveraging technology to stay competitive.  

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and tackle 2025 with confidence, download the report today at paychex.com/awia.

It’s free, it’s insightful, and it might just give you the edge you need.

The Play by Play - 2024 Year in Review

Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer

Summary

In this episode of The Play by Play podcast, hosts Jack and Nick reflect on the major events, sports championships, and music trends of 2024. They discuss the highlights of the year, including the Summer Olympics, the total solar eclipse, and the presidential election. The conversation then shifts to sports, celebrating the achievements of teams and athletes across various leagues.

Finally, they look at the music scene, analyzing the top artists and songs of the year, with a special focus on Taylor Swift's dominance in the charts. They talk about the top music albums, podcasts, and movies of 2024, sharing their personal favorites and surprises. They also make predictions for 2025, discussing potential trends in music, film, and cryptocurrency, while emphasizing the importance of setting goals for the new year.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to 2025

01:20 Reflecting on 2024 Major Events and Highlights

04:35 Celebrating Sports Winners of 2024

10:52 Music Trends and Top Artists

21:59 Exploring Top Podcasts

24:41 Box Office Hits of 2024

27:38 Predictions for 2025

35:00 Quote of the Show for the New Year

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Zena Everett, Award winning author and speaker

In this podcast interview Mervyn talks with executive coach and award winning business author Zena Everett about HR's role in helping to build team dynamics and trust whilst addressing every day people problems.

During the conversation they discuss : 

• What can cause conflict at work and how can it best be resolved
• The complexity of dealing with everyday people problems
• The role of managers and how to coach them
• Conflict resolution
• The impact of remote, flexible and hybrid working on team dynamics
• Building trust within teams

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

Modern Leadership: Lessons from The Leader-Shift Playbook

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Phil Wilson, CEO of LRI Consulting Services, Inc. and Founder of Approachable Leadership

Summary

In this episode of the At Work in America podcast, hosts Steve and Trish chat with Phil Wilson, a leadership expert and author, to explore the nuances of effective leadership. They discuss the significance of vulnerability in leadership, the concept of the 'hero assumption,' and actionable strategies for leaders to foster better connections with their teams. Phil shares insights from his new book, 'The Leader-Shift Playbook,' highlighting practical exercises that can transform leadership styles and improve workplace culture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Conversations

04:08 Phil Wilson's Leadership Journey

07:27 Leadership and Workplace Relationships

10:40 Vulnerability in Leadership

16:49 Empowering Team Members

22:00 Believing in your Team

24:05 Organizational Support for Leaders

28:54 Actionable Leadership Exercises

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.

HR is about to change for good with the power of Human Intelligence.

By combining AI and the rich data of Workhuman’s #1 rated employee recognition platform, Human Intelligence answers HR’s most demanding needs…

…unlocking insights and capabilities that redefine talent management, cultural transformation, and employee engagement — ultimately elevating performance and, above all, people.

The future of HR has arrived. Will you – and your company – be a part of it?

Learn about Human Intelligence at Workhuman.com and join their force for good.

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Are you ready to crush the year ahead? The 2025 Priorities for Business Leaders Report from our friends at Paychex is here, and it's packed with insights from 600 companies on how to drive growth and get ahead.

This isn't your average data dump — it includes actionable strategies on everything from attracting new hires to improving employee retention, managing HR compliance, and leveraging technology to stay competitive.  

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and tackle 2025 with confidence, download the report today at paychex.com/awia.

It’s free, it’s insightful, and it might just give you the edge you need.

Dollars and Sense in the Workplace

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Ilyce Glink, Founder & CEO of Best Money Moves

Summary

In this episode, Steve and Trish discuss the importance of financial wellness in the workplace with Ilyce Glink from Best Money Moves. They explore how financial stress impacts employee mental health and productivity, the evolution of financial wellness tools, and the role of employers in providing financial education to their employees. They highlight the need for personalized financial solutions and the integration of AI in financial wellness programs, as well as the importance of privacy and security in handling financial information.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Financial Wellness

03:00 The Evolution of Financial Wellness Tools

05:56 Understanding Financial Stress and Its Impact

12:02 Generational Perspectives on Financial Wellness

14:56 The Connection Between Financial and Mental Health

18:00 Privacy and Security in Financial Wellness

24:01 The Importance of Holistic Financial Support

26:56 Future Trends in Financial Wellness

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a stat for you: 85% of businesses are expecting higher revenue this year, but many are still worried about economic uncertainty, talent shortages, and rising costs. Sound familiar? That's why you need to check out the results of the sixth annual Priorities for Business Leaders survey from our friends at Paychex. They’ve surveyed companies just like yours to uncover the top challenges and strategies driving business success in 2025 — from streamlining HR tasks to setting employees up for growth. Curious? Head to paychex.com/awiato read the full report. Don’t just guess your priorities — know them.

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Barbara Wilson, Founder and Director of Working with Cancer

In this podcast interview Mervyn talks with Barbara Wilson - Founder of the social enterprise 'Working With Cancer' - about their latest research on how organisations can help support those in their workforce who have had, or are having, treatment for cancer. 

During the conversation they discuss : 

• Why do so few organisations seem to have a cancer policy in place
• Poor level of coaching offered to managers and directors to have necessary sensitive conversations with employees having cancer treatment (78% have not provided training)
• Why work is so important to cancer patients undergoing treatment
• What workplace adjustments are offered, and which ones are still needed
• The need for HR to have clear policies and practices that are easily accessible and understood by employees 
• Reintegrating employees after their cancer treatment
• Advice for HR on having open conversations and the need to be understanding and supportive

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!

At Work in America - Embracing Flexibility and Remote Work: Lessons from the Real Estate Industry

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Guest: Tanya Reu-Narvaez, Chief People Officer, Anywhere Real Estate Inc.

Summary

In the 17th season of the At Work in America podcast, Steve Boese and Trish Steed learn more about the real estate industry with Tanya Reu-Narvaez, Chief People Officer at Anywhere Real Estate. They highlight the industry’s high turnover, the importance of a growth mindset for real estate agents, and the shift towards remote and flexible work post-pandemic. They also emphasize the need for human-centric leadership, transparency, and leveraging technology like Gen AI to enhance productivity and employee engagement. The conversation also touches on the future of work, including the importance of automation, skill shifts, and the global workforce.

Chapters

01:12. Paychex Acquisition and Economic Concerns

03:51 Real Estate Industry Overview

16:23 Remote Work and Flexibility in the Real Estate Industry

20:27 Leadership and Connection in a Remote Environment

34:31 Future Trends and Opportunities in HR

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a stat for you: 85% of businesses are expecting higher revenue this year, but many are still worried about economic uncertainty, talent shortages, and rising costs. Sound familiar? That's why you need to check out the results of the sixth annual Priorities for Business Leaders survey from our friends at Paychex. They’ve surveyed companies just like yours to uncover the top challenges and strategies driving business success in 2025 — from streamlining HR tasks to setting employees up for growth. Curious? Head to paychex.com/awiato read the full report. Don’t just guess your priorities — know them.

At Work in America - Happy New Year 2025!

Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed

Summary

In this episode, Steve Boese and Trish Steed kick off 2025 by reflecting on the Rose Parade, discussing personal best days, and exploring the Pantone Color of the Year, Mocha Moose. They discuss the 2025 Trends Report, highlighting key themes such as caregiving, technology, and workplace dynamics. The conversation wraps up with aspirations for the new year, emphasizing the importance of empathy and creative approaches to personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to 2025: A New Year Begins

06:22 Best Day Ever: Personal Reflections

12:26 Color of the Year: Mocha Moose and Trends

18:27 2025 Trends Report: Insights and Predictions

24:24 Words for the Year: Aspirations and Goals

Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

This episode of At Work in America is sponsored by Paychex, one of the leading providers of HR, payroll, retirement, and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a stat for you: 85% of businesses are expecting higher revenue this year, but many are still worried about economic uncertainty, talent shortages, and rising costs. Sound familiar? That's why you need to check out the results of the sixth annual Priorities for Business Leaders survey from our friends at Paychex. They’ve surveyed companies just like yours to uncover the top challenges and strategies driving business success in 2025 — from streamlining HR tasks to setting employees up for growth. Curious? Head to paychex.com/awia to read the full report. Don’t just guess your priorities — know them.

The Role Recognition Plays in Supporting Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing

Host: Mervyn Dinnen

Guest: Robert Ordever & Stuart Cheesman, O.C. Tanner Europe

Today, Mervyn talks with Robert Ordever and Stuart Cheesman about some of the key findings from O.C. Tanner's Global Culture Report 2025.

During the conversation they discuss:

- Importance of Recognition and Support in the workplace

- How recognition can support better Mental Health at work

- The role of recognition in improving employee wellbeing

- How to improve the transitioning of employees to different roles

- AI's role in employee recognition

- Building trust in the workplace

Thanks for listening! Remember to subscribe to all of the HR Happy Hour Media Network shows on your favorite podcast app!