Splitting the Bill: How BNPL is Changing Young Consumer Spending Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer Summary In this episode of The Play by Play , Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer iscuss the growing trend of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services, particularly among Gen Z consumers. They explore how BNPL works, its popularity, personal experiences, and the associated risks, including loan stacking and phantom debt. The conversation emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and the need for businesses to educate their employees about these financial tools. The episode concludes with a cautionary note about the potential pitfalls of BNPL services. Listen in! Chapters 0:00 Welcome & Exploring BNPL 04:59 Gen Z's Adoption of BNPL Services 07:45 Personal Experiences with BNPL 10:35 Risks and Downsides of BNPL 16:31 BNPL Usage Across Incomes Levels 19:45 The Impact of Life Events on Financial Decisions 21:50 Educating the Workforce on Financial Tools 23:52 Cautionary Insights on BNPL Services 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. Workplace recognition is more than feel-good moments. It’s a powerful source of people data that transforms cultures and businesses. Workhuman unlocks that power with Human Intelligence — AI trained on millions of coworker “thank-yous” to uncover the hidden patterns shaping your culture. Who's actually driving projects forward? Where are the skills gaps? Which teams are thriving—and which need support? Say goodbye to the guesswork. And leverage the collective wisdom of your people for insights you can act on. And here's the best part: Workhuman guarantees measurable results. Real culture improvements that drive real business outcomes. Visit workhuman.com to turn your recognition data into a competitive advantage. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network!…

AI and the Future of Collaboration Host: Steve Boese Guest: Snorre Kjesbu , SVP/GM of Cisco Collaboration, Cisco Welcome back to the System of Record ! In this conversation, Steve Boese and Snorre Kjesbu discuss the evolving landscape of work, particularly focusing on collaboration and the integration of AI technologies. They explore how the pandemic has shifted collaboration from a useful tool to a mission-critical necessity, emphasizing the importance of seamless connections in hybrid work environments. Snorre introduces the concept of 'Distance Zero' to describe the goal of removing barriers in communication and collaboration. The discussion also looks into the complexities organizations face with AI adoption, the need for clear strategies, and the evolving role of leadership in navigating these changes. Together, they discuss Cisco's innovative AI solutions designed to enhance the employee experience and improve collaboration. 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. Workplace recognition is more than feel-good moments. It’s a powerful source of people data that transforms cultures and businesses. Workhuman unlocks that power with Human Intelligence — AI trained on millions of coworker “thank-yous” to uncover the hidden patterns shaping your culture. Who's actually driving projects forward? Where are the skills gaps? Which teams are thriving—and which need support? Say goodbye to the guesswork. And leverage the collective wisdom of your people for insights you can act on. And here's the best part: Workhuman guarantees measurable results. Real culture improvements that drive real business outcomes. Visit workhuman.com to turn your recognition data into a competitive advantage. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network!…

Behind the Scenes of HR: Burnout, Balance, and Belonging Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Ryan Tahmassebi , People Science Director at Workbuzz Summary In this episode of the HR Means Business podcast, host Mervyn Dinnen chats with Ryan Tahmassebi about the latest research on employee well-being, engagement, and the evolving priorities within HR. They discuss the importance of aligning HR with executive leadership, the challenges of communication, the role of AI in HR practices, and the need for emotional connections in understanding employee experiences. The conversation highlights the pressing issues facing HR professionals today and the strategies they can employ to foster a healthier workplace culture. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Employee Well-being Priorities 04:05 The Shift in DEI Focus 07:04 Aligning HR and Executive Leadership 10:20 Communication in Leadership 16:16 Addressing Employee Well=being and Workload Challenges 22:07 The Need for Emotional Connection in HR Metrics Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! he HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. It’s officially spooky season, but work shouldn’t feel a nightmare. If yours feels haunted by burnout and disengagement, try Workhuman. Workhuman’s #1-rated employee recognition platform connects work cultures through gratitude. Employees thank each other for great work and redeem those thanks for millions of items and experiences – keeping them engaged and productive. But here’s the coolest part: These recognition messages contain rich data. Workhuman’s AI mines it to identify quiet leaders, match mentors, and reveal team skills—enabling smarter talent decisions that generate guaranteed ROI. It’s good for people and good for business. All treats, no tricks. Visit workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the Happy Hour Podcast Network.…

AI Revolution: Transforming Employee Experience Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Trilok Manchinila , VP, Enterprise Architecture and Data of ABM Industries Summary In this episode of the HR Happy Hour show, hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed discuss the excitement surrounding AI at Oracle AI World with Trilok Manchinila, VP of Enterprise Architecture and Data at ABM Industries. They explore the role of technology in enhancing employee experience, the importance of empathy in the workplace, and how AI can serve as a translator for better communication. The conversation also touches on the significance of safety and retention for frontline workers, the value of data integrity, and the future of partnerships in the tech landscape. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Oracle AI World: The Excitement of AI 01:08 Understanding ABM Industries 02:59 The Role of Technology in Employee Experience 05:56 AI as a Translator 08:41 Empathy in Technology: Bridging Gaps 12:00 The Importance of Safety and Retention 14:45 Data Integrity and AI 17:46 Partnerships and Future Innovations Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! he HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. It’s officially spooky season, but work shouldn’t feel a nightmare. If yours feels haunted by burnout and disengagement, try Workhuman. Workhuman’s #1-rated employee recognition platform connects work cultures through gratitude. Employees thank each other for great work and redeem those thanks for millions of items and experiences – keeping them engaged and productive. But here’s the coolest part: These recognition messages contain rich data. Workhuman’s AI mines it to identify quiet leaders, match mentors, and reveal team skills—enabling smarter talent decisions that generate guaranteed ROI. It’s good for people and good for business. All treats, no tricks. Visit workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the Happy Hour Podcast Network.…

Transforming Higher Ed with Digital HR Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Amanda Duval-Norwood , CHRO, Harper College Summary In this episode of the HR Happy Hour show, hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed met with Amanda Duval-Norwood, the CHRO of Harper College, at Oracle AI World. They discuss the vibrant atmosphere of the conference, the operationalization of AI in business, and Amanda's journey in HR. She shares insights about Harper College, its community-focused approach, and the implementation of Oracle's HCM and ERP systems. The conversation highlights the importance of digital transformation in HR, the challenges of shared governance in higher education, and the exciting potential of AI in enhancing employee experiences. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Oracle AI World 02:57 Harper College Overview 07:48 Implementing Oracle Solutions 12:07 Optimizing HR Processes with Technology 17:31 Digital Transformation in HR 21:48 The Evolution of HR Technology 25:05 Embracing AI in HR Practices 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. It’s officially spooky season, but work shouldn’t feel a nightmare. If yours feels haunted by burnout and disengagement, try Workhuman. Workhuman’s #1-rated employee recognition platform connects work cultures through gratitude. Employees thank each other for great work and redeem those thanks for millions of items and experiences – keeping them engaged and productive. But here’s the coolest part: These recognition messages contain rich data. Workhuman’s AI mines it to identify quiet leaders, match mentors, and reveal team skills—enabling smarter talent decisions that generate guaranteed ROI. It’s good for people and good for business. All treats, no tricks. Visit workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the Happy Hour Podcast Network.…

The Increasing Impact of AI on Job Descriptions and Applications Host: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Yutaka Takagi , Principal Product Evangelist at isolved In this podcast episode, recorded live at the HR Technology Conference & Expo, Mervyn talks with Yutaka Takagi, principal product evangelist at software development organisation isolved, about the transformative impact of AI on Talent Acquisition and job applications. During the conversation they discuss: The impact of AI on the Talent Acquisition landscape How job seeker applications are evolving Using AI to help create role descriptions and matching candidates How HR teams can handle an AI-driven surge in applications Why AI should supplement, but not replace, human judgment The role of skills-based hiring in reducing bias in the recruitment process Why human oversight remains crucial in hiring decisions The future of hiring 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. It’s officially spooky season, but work shouldn’t feel a nightmare. If yours feels haunted by burnout and disengagement, try Workhuman. Workhuman’s #1-rated employee recognition platform connects work cultures through gratitude. Employees thank each other for great work and redeem those thanks for millions of items and experiences – keeping them engaged and productive. But here's the coolest part: These recognition messages contain rich data. Workhuman's AI mines it to identify quiet leaders, match mentors, and reveal team skills—enabling smarter talent decisions that generate guaranteed ROI. It’s good for people and good for business. All treats, no tricks. Visit workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the Happy Hour Podcast Network.…

Gen Z and The Power of Nostalgia Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer Summary In this episode of The Play by Play , Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer explore the concept of nostalgia in marketing, particularly how companies are leveraging it to connect with Gen Z. They discuss the psychological effects of nostalgia, its impact on consumer behavior, and the risks associated with nostalgia marketing. The conversation then shifts to fantasy football, where they share their experiences, strategies, and hopes for the season ahead. Listen in! Chapters 0:00 Nostalgia in Marketing 03:25 The Power of Nostalgia for Gen Z 06:25 Nostalgia in Food and Beverage Marketing 09:11 Nostalgia in Fashion and Merchandise 12:13 The Risks of Nostalgia Marketing 18:42 Fantasy Football Standouts 21:30 Underrated Players Making Waves 24:41 Injury Impact on Fantasy Teams 28:57 Setting Expectations for the Season 30:41 Future Goals, Aspirations, and Quote of the Show 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. It’s officially spooky season, but work shouldn’t feel a nightmare. If yours feels haunted by burnout and disengagement, try Workhuman. Workhuman’s #1-rated employee recognition platform connects work cultures through gratitude. Employees thank each other for great work and redeem those thanks for millions of items and experiences – keeping them engaged and productive. But here's the coolest part: These recognition messages contain rich data. Workhuman's AI mines it to identify quiet leaders, match mentors, and reveal team skills—enabling smarter talent decisions that generate guaranteed ROI. It’s good for people and good for business. All treats, no tricks. Visit workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the Happy Hour Podcast Network.…

Rethinking HR with AI: The Gia Effect Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Laura Maffucci , Head of HR at Globalization Partners (G-P) Summary In this episode of the HR Happy Hour , Steve Boese and Trish Steed chat with Laura Maffucci, Head of HR at Globalization Partners (G-P), to discuss the transformative role of AI in HR, particularly through G-P's innovative product, Gia. The conversation covers Laura's extensive HR background, the complexities of compliance in a global landscape, and how Gia addresses these challenges with advanced AI capabilities. They explore the importance of learning agility in HR, the need for critical thinking skills, and how AI can enhance efficiency and support talent management. The episode concludes with insights on fostering curiosity and embracing AI as an integral part of the future of work. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in HR 02:41 Overview of G-P 05:11 The Compliance Landscape in HR 07:54 Gia: A Game-Changer for Compliance 10:18 AI's Role in Enhancing HR's Efficiency 16:04 Importance of Learning Agility in HR 18:12 Embracing AI and Future Skills 21:19 Fostering Curiosity and Critical Thinking 23:14 Conclusion and Moving Forward Learn more in the 2025 World at Work Report 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

Back to Business: Training Beyond the Manual Hosts: Jack McFarlane & Nick Schlemmer Summary In this episode of The Play by Play , hosts Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer discuss the critical role of job training, particularly from the perspective of Gen Z employees. They explore the challenges faced by new graduates in the job market, the importance of mentorship, and how company culture influences training effectiveness. The conversation also highlights innovative training methods, including the use of role-playing scenarios to prepare employees for real-life challenges. Overall, the episode emphasizes that effective training is essential for career success and employee retention. Listen in! Chapters 0:00 The Importance of Job Training 04:23 Gen Z's Perspective on Training 10:09 Ideal Training Experiences 17:15 The Role of Mentorship in Training 19:15 Innovative Training Methods for the Future 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

The HR Happy Hour LIVE from HR Tech: Harri Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guests: Tom Horne & Jayson Saba , Harri Summary In this episode of the HR Happy Hour , live from the HR Technology Conference, Steve and Trish met with guests Tom Horne and Jayson Saba to discuss the critical role of frontline workers in the economy and how technology can enhance their experience. Together, they explore the unique challenges faced by these workers, the importance of creating a supportive work environment, and the innovative solutions offered by Harri, a company focused on workforce management. The conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach to employee engagement and the potential of AI to optimize workforce management processes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to HR Tech and Harri 03:07 The Importance of Frontline Workers 05:53 Technology's Role in Supporting these Workers 08:52 Creating the Perfect Shift with AI 11:52 Elevating the Value of All Jobs 14:54 Regulations and Supporting Employees 17:46 Conclusion and Future Insights 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

The HR Happy Hour LIVE from HR Tech: Darwinbox Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Samrat Krishna , Head of Marketing, US at Darwinbox Summary In this episode of the HR Happy Hour , live from the HR Technology Conference, Steve and Trish met with Samrat Krishna, Head of Marketing for Darwinbox , to discuss the evolving landscape of HR technology. They explore the advantages of AI in HR, the importance of having a solid foundational system before implementing AI, and the role of Super Agents in streamlining HR processes. The conversation emphasizes the need for HR leaders to adapt to rapid changes in technology and to seek integrated solutions that enhance employee experience and organizational efficiency. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to HR Tech and Darwinbox 02:52 The Evolution of HR Technology 05:46 AI in HR: Understanding the Basics 08:50 Implementing AI: Strategies and Frameworks 12:05 The Role of Super Agents in HR 15:00 Navigating Change in HR Technology 16:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

Overcoming Addiction and Supporting Others in Their Healing Journey Hosts: Steve Boese & Trish Steed Guest: Bryan Wempen , Author, F**K My Demons Summary We’re bringing back an important conversation for National Recovery Month - an encore presentation of last year’s podcast on addiction recovery. The message is just as timely and powerful today. Today, we met with author Bryan Wempen to talk about addiction, mental health, and self-exploration. In this episode, we explored Bryan’s transformative experience of overcoming addiction and the profound impact it had on both personal and professional growth. The conversation explored the intricate web of addiction, the powerful force of denial, and the ripple effect on families. Additionally, Bryan shed light on the prevalent issues of mental health stigma and addiction within the workplace, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding. Ultimately, the episode provides insights into the process of healing and the potential for positive change, offering hope for those navigating similar challenges in their own lives or with a loved one. 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

Creating a New Operating Model for HR Host: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Perry Timms , Founder and Chief Energy Officer of PTHR In this podcast interview Mervyn talks with Perry Timms, who has been five times recognised by HR Magazine as one of the Most Influential Thinkers in HR, about his new book - The HR Operating Model. During the conversation they discuss: Why we need a new operating model that aligns with today's business environment The fout key elements of people experience, data & analytics, agility and technology integration The importance of systems thinking, product management, & organizational psychology Working backwards from business impact to create HR interventions and programs Creating a high performance workforce Need for strong ownership and product orientation in technology implementation Importance of talent development, culture, and product management in high performing organizations How HR professionals need to focus on business value and creating a clear vision for the organization 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…

Upskilling Opportunities Creating Pathways to Success Hosts: Steve Boese and Trish Steed Guest: Patricia Gill , Director of Workforce Development at NRAEF and Leader of the HOPES Program Summary In this episode of At Work In America , hosts Steve Boese and Trish Steed welcome Patricia Gill, Director of Workforce Development at the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. They discuss the importance of providing opportunities in the workforce, particularly in the restaurant industry, through programs like Restaurant Ready and HOPES. The conversation highlights the significance of competency-based training, community collaboration, and the success rates of individuals who have participated in these programs. Patricia shares insights on how these initiatives not only help individuals gain employment but also contribute to reducing recidivism rates and fostering a sense of belonging in the workplace. Chapters 03:12 Exploring Workforce Development Opportunities 09:15 Understanding the Restaurant Ready Program 12:03 Connecting Talent with Opportunities 14:18 Success Stories from the HOPES Program 18:16 Core Skills for Diverse Populations 20:55 The Value of Hospitality Careers 25:06 Engaging with the Programs 29:49 Closing Thoughts and Restaurant Recommendations 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. AI is everywhere. But here’s what most headlines miss: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. Workhuman has built the world’s deepest well of recognition data. Peer-to-peer messages celebrating real achievements in the workplace. Now, they’re using AI to transform this data into actionable people insights. For the first time ever, companies can discover hidden skills across departments. Spot quiet leaders. Identify who needs support, and understand their people dynamics at scale. It’s called Human Intelligence, and it’s so powerful that Workhuman guarantees measurable culture improvements that drive real business results. Head over to workhuman.com to learn more. Workhuman, a proud supporter of the HR Happy Hour Network.…