HR Scoop

How can HR build truly inclusive cultures for neurodiverse talent—beyond basic accommodations? Christine welcomes Mike Lamm, Chief People Officer at RethinkFirst, to unpack practical ways organizations can support neurodivergent employees and the caregivers who stand beside them. From structured hiring to manager playbooks and on-demand behavioral support, Mike shows how neuro-affirming practices lift performance, retention, and wellbeing.“It’s not about accommodating—it's about investing to unlock everyone’s potential.”This conversation covers:What neurodiversity means (origin, scope) and why ~20% of today’s workforce is directly affectedConcrete hiring tactics: skills-based assessments, predictable interview steps, clear expectationsManager playbooks: direct, observable feedback; aligning communication and workA forward vision: connecting neurodiversity training + personalized support to measurable business outcomes

Christine Muldoon speaks with executive coach Kristen Sharkey, founder of Emboldify, about how improv techniques can reshape leadership development and team culture. From embracing failure to cultivating presence, Kristen shares how applying principles from improv theater helps leaders build trust, psychological safety, and resilience—especially in high-pressure environments."Perfectionism is exhausting. But when leaders model adaptability and authenticity, teams start to thrive."This episode covers:How improv training helps leaders become more self-aware and presentWays to reduce burnout and build trust through emotional intelligenceSmall, low-stakes team exercises to foster connection and flexibility

Christine Muldoon sits down with April Haberman, CEO and Co-Founder of MiDOViA, to discuss why menopause must be part of every workplace wellbeing strategy. From tackling stigma to building inclusive policies and sustainable culture change, this conversation reframes how HR can better support women through all life stages—not just the childbearing years."Workplaces have made space for pregnancy and mental health. It's time menopause gets the same support."This episode covers:What it really means to be a menopause-friendly workplaceWhy holistic women's health must include every life stageHow organizations can normalize the conversation and retain top talent

In this episode of the HR Scoop, Andrea interviews Dorie Clark, a top business thinker and communication coach, known for her work as a keynote speaker and bestselling author of The Long Game, Reinventing You, and Stand Out. Dorie shares her insights on effective communication in organizations, the significance of being strategic employee recognition, and the importance of career lattices over traditional career ladders. suggesting that HR leaders focus on key priorities and think creatively about how to reach their teams. Tune in to hear how employees can reinvent themselves and the importance of HR leaders cultivating a culture where employees feel seen, heard, and valued.

In this episode of the HR Scoop podcast, Andrea interviews Jyoti Sharma (and now Grace ShriRam), the CEO and founder of TaraCares, a London-based AI health tech startup addressing menopause. Jyoti highlights the need for employers to go beyond awareness sessions and address menopause with strategic, evidence-based policies that view employee health as a long-term investment. Hear more about the importance of linking company strategy and financial objectives to health initiatives, promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) through menopause support in this episode!

In this episode of The HR Scoop, Andrea welcomes Phil Chun, founder and principal consultant at Polaris Leadership Consulting. Phil shares his journey from being a senior HR professional in a toxic workplace to starting his own consulting firm. They discuss the challenges HR professionals face, the importance of a person-centered approach in building company culture, and why burnout may not be preventable after all. Phil introduces the performance, image, and exposure (PIE) framework as a tool for new managers to navigate their roles successfully. The episode is filled with insights and practical advice for HR professionals and leaders aiming to create a supportive and thriving work environment.

In this season six HR Scoop finale episode, Andrea talks with Jason Lauritsen, an author and leadership trainer, about improving workplace relationships. Jason highlights the importance of in-person interactions for building trust and collaboration. Jason also stresses the need for clear expectations in virtual meetings and as technology evolves, he shares his beliefs on maintaining human connection and how crucial it is for organizational success and societal well-being.

In this HR Scoop episode, Andrea talks with Dr. John White, WebMD's Chief Medical Officer, about the role of AI in employee health. Dr. White highlights the benefits of personalized health data from wearables and "nearables" for continuous monitoring and better health outcomes. They discuss top-of-mind privacy concerns and the potential of augmented intelligence in healthcare.

In this HR Scoop episode, Andrea talks with Sara King, an HR consultant, about the growing trend of fractional CHROs and HR consultants. Sara shares her extensive background, including a 21-year tenure at VIPS, where she built the HR department and navigated multiple acquisitions. Sara also discusses a successful virtual article club she started during the pandemic and the importance of adopting AI in HR. She emphasizes building strong relationships with CEOs to secure a strategic HR role.

On the Season 5 finale of the HR Scoop, Andrea hosts a panel of talent acquisition professionals to discuss the current state of recruitment. From social media best practices to a game of “candidate stop/start/continue” to tips for HR professionals as candidates, you won’t want to miss this timely conversation.

The HR Scoop is so pleased to welcome Cheryl Kish, CEO of HOA Brands (Hooters), for a candid conversation about their internal career development programs. From the cultural benefits to employee retention, this episode features all the advice you’ll ever need to improve your own organizations career development opportunities. And you won’t want to miss hearing about Cheryl’s own inspiring journey.

This episode of the HR Scoop features, Aaron Hurst, CEO of Imperative, a peer coaching provider. Andrea and Aaron start by defining the “purpose economy” before doing a deep dive into how peer coaching humanizes colleagues and creates meaningful relationships. Lastly, learn why Aaron is forever linked to the sport of baseball.

Season 4 of the HR Scoop wraps up with advice about putting a little TLC on your career. Kevin Campbell, Employee Experience Scientist at Qualtrics, joins Andrea to discuss trends in employee turnover, better ways to teach the “soft” skills and why storytelling is the next great trait of HR leaders.