Menopause and perimenopause are one of the most overlooked workplace issues. What employees are experiencing often gets misread as performance issues, poor attendance, or “burnout,”. For this episode, we’re taking a bit of a detour from our usual format to bring you a conversation from the Take a Pause with MenoPalz Podcast for which I was honored to be a guest. We’ll discuss how symptoms can affect the mid-career professional and how HR can lead with confidence, credibility, and ...

Think the Federal Reserve only deals with interest rates? Think again. In this episode, we sit down with experts from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia to reveal little‑known but powerful tools designed to support workforce and economic mobility. Deborah Diamond and Theresa Dunne break down two resources that can help HR professionals rethink talent pipelines, skills‑based hiring, and local economic impact. Discover how "Eds & Meds" shape Philadelphia’s workforce and why und...

In this courageous and eye-opening episode of HR Fresh Take, host Dr. Jo sits down with survivor, advocate, and author Dr. Jennifer Gardella to explore how domestic violence—often considered a private issue—profoundly impacts the workplace. From emotional trauma to legal and financial barriers, Dr. Gardella shares her personal journey and offers actionable insights for HR professionals and organizational leaders. Listeners will learn: The hidden costs of domestic violence on employee well-b...

We’re kicking off our 4th season by talking about neurodiversity in the workplace—what it means, why it matters, and how HR leaders can foster truly inclusive environments. Joining the discussion are Laura Sibbald McAnulty, Executive Director of the Neurodiversity Employment Network (NENPHL); Joseph Riddle, Director of Neurodiversity in the Workplace (NITW), and Alberta Blum, Lead Executive Talent Partner for Radian. We’ll discuss hiring, team dynamics, accommodations, and the power of ...

In our final installment of our series, HR and Age of AI Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests examine the dual impact of AI on mental health. Highlighting both the benefits and challenges it presents. We also discussed building cultures of care and the role of AI as a tool to enhance workplace practices. Special Thanks to our Contributors: Scott J Prendergast is a Professional Speaker, Certified Coach, Author, College Professor and Mental Health Advocate based in Philadelphia, PA a...

In the penultimate episode of our series, HR and the Age of AI: Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests discuss the importance of curiosity and adaptability in navigating AI technology. We also highlight the protection of sensitive data as well as the role of organizational culture in fostering a safe environment for experimentation and growth. Special Thanks to our Contributors Kelly Jones is the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at The Federal Reserve Bank of ...

In part 4 of our series, HR and Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their perspectives on how AI is transforming HR practices from improving the employee experience to enhancing recruitment processes. We also discussed the importance of maintaining empathy and humanity in HR especially as AI technology advances, as well as the need for adaptability and agility among HR professionals. Special Thanks to our Contributors: Gaetan Giannini - Vice President for Adult and...

In part 3 of our series: HR in the Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their diverse perspectives on skills, tools, and relationships HR professionals need to effectively manage and lead in the age of AI. The conversation also touches upon overcoming the fear of AI with practical advice on low-risk initiatives and personal experimentation. Special thanks to our contributors: Blair Corcoran de Castillo - As Opportunity@Work’s Vice President of Policy, Blair leads th...

In Part 2 of our series, HR and the Age of AI: Opportunities and Obstacles, our guests share their unique perspectives on how AI is transforming HR practices from creating culture to enhancing neurodiversity inclusion. We also discussed the need for critical thinking and human oversight in AI applications, as well as the legal implications and ethical considerations. Special thanks to our contributors: Michael S. Cohen Partner, Duane Morris’ Employment, Labor, Benefits and Immigra...

Discussing the benefits and challenges of AI can help reduce anxiety around its integration and use. When HR professionals understand the advantages and limitations of AI, they can develop a balanced perspective and in turn, foster collaboration and proactive planning, ensuring that AI is integrated responsibly and ethically. In this special multi-part series: HR in the Age of AI - Opportunities and Obstacles, recorded during the 2025 Philly SHRM Symposium, we got the perspectives from nation...