What the Heck Is Happening in HR?

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , Kelley sits down with longtime friend and powerhouse leader Mary Stockwell. Mary shares her inspiring journey from being the first woman in a global procurement leadership role to launching her own successful business. With deep roots in a family of trailblazing women, Mary opens up about how curiosity, resilience, and a love for problem-solvi...

Welcome back to What the Heck is Happening in HR? Today, we're diving into a topic we've touched on before—but it's coming at us even faster now: change . From the sweeping impacts of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative to personal and organizational upheaval, HR professionals are in the eye of the storm. This episode explores how large-scale initiatives like DOGE...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we’re talking about artificial intelligence and what it really means for HR. From busting myths (like thinking AI is just one app!) to managing digital overload and boosting transparency, Kelley Rexroad covers it all. We’re also diving into how to use digital tools to gamify engagement, recognize employees in real time, and collect great ideas...

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Sharon Fekete, The Doctor Whisperer , we go beyond awareness and into action. Sharon opens up about the hard truths she’s witnessed while speaking to organizations—leaders missing cues, employees suffering in silence, and the stigma that still surrounds mental health, addiction, and suicide. This episode explores how small changes, like checking in with...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we’re joined by Sharon Fekete—Tampa Bay-based author, speaker, and mental health advocate with 30 years of sobriety. Sharon shares her personal story and how it shaped her career, from navigating early struggles with depression and recovery to building a successful business supporting healthcare leaders. We explore the connection between perso...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , Kelley explores what it really means to modernize your HR function—not just for today, but for the future. From scrutinizing outdated processes to reevaluating whether you have the right people for where your organization is headed, Kelley challenges listeners to rethink their approach. Plus, she shares insights on leveraging AI, enhancing com...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , host Kelley Rexroad shares a deeply personal story about her dog, Beauregard, whose unexpected medical emergency underscored the life-saving value of pet insurance. From navigating $13,000 treatment estimates to finding peace of mind through a comprehensive policy, Kelley explores why pet insurance isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a workplace...

What does a psychological workplace thriller have to do with real-life HR? Everything. In this special episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we’re joined by Suzanne Lucas—aka the Evil HR Lady—to break down the Apple TV+ series Severance . From milkshakes to micromanagement, we explore how this fictional workplace mirrors the strange truths of our own. Suzanne shares her take on culture qu...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we’re reintroducing the Employee Benefits Planning course at USF! Kelley Rexroad shares why benefits are a crucial part of total compensation and how this class helps HR pros build better benefit strategies. From insurance basics to designing real-world benefit programs, this course goes beyond the paycheck. Tune in to hear what’s new and why...

In Part 3 of our conversation with Phillip Wilson, we explore the final two pillars of effective leadership: how you view others, and how you build relationships. These elements often go overlooked, but they play a critical role in how teams function — and how leaders truly connect. Phil shares why shifting your mindset about the people you lead can have a ripple effect throughout your organizatio...

In Part 2 of our conversation with Phillip Wilson, we dive into two of the four pillars of leadership: Your Own Impact and Yourself . Leadership starts from within—your beliefs, biases, and mindset shape how you influence others. We explore the power of placebo and nocebo effects, how first-level leaders set the tone, and why self-belief is critical for growth. Plus, we break down the Stop-Listen-...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we sit down with Phillip Wilson, President of LRI Consulting Services and author of The Leader-Shift Playbook , releasing April 1st. Phil has written seven books on leadership and management, and in this conversation, he shares insights from his latest work. We explore his personal leadership journey, the fundamentals of great leadership, and...

In part two, we continue our conversation with Mary Maloney, published author and three-time CEO and CMO, diving further into the power of branding. Mary unpacks the significance of brand symbols, the core elements of a strong brand, and how understanding your purpose, your "why," and your "hows" can shape success. This episode shifts the focus from her career transitions to th...

Why do we show up to work beyond just a paycheck? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we dive into the power of workplace community — how shared purpose fuels connection and why its absence can lead to isolation. We explore what it means to be intentional about building a sense of belonging, ensuring employees feel valued, and fostering an environment where people rally around a...

Ever feel like you're running on empty at work, or stuck in a never-ending loop of boredom? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we discuss the realities of burnout and boreout. They may seem like opposites — one fueled by being overwhelmed by work, the other by being underwhelmed by work — but both can leave you feeling unmotivated and unhappy. We’ll talk about how to spot t...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we’re giving you a preview of USF’s HR Core Concepts course — returning on April 8, 2025! This course is designed to provide a solid foundation in human resources, covering everything from the history of HR and key compliance laws to workforce planning, employee value propositions, total rewards, and emerging trends like AI. You’ll also explor...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we tackle a tough but necessary topic—how employers and HR professionals should respond during tragic events like floods, fires, and other unforeseen disasters. We discuss the heartbreaking Impact Plastics lawsuit, the importance of clear communication, and the vital role leadership plays in crisis situations. Are you prepared to protect your...

Can a little twerk before work cost you your job? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we discuss the viral case of an Alaska Airlines employee who was terminated after posting a TikTok video of herself twerking in uniform. Was it a wrongful termination, or a clear violation of company policy? We explore the role of social media policies, employer expectations, and the impact on...

What could a second Trump administration mean for HR and labor law? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we break down the key nominations shaping the future of the Department of Labor (DOL) and beyond. We’ll explore Keith Sonderling’s nomination for Deputy Labor Secretary, Lori Chavez-DeRemer’s stance on protecting the PRO Act, and potential shifts in the National Labor Relation...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mary Maloney, a published author and three-time CEO and CMO, to explore her remarkable career journey. Mary shares the contrasting experiences of being let go from two jobs and how the second downsizing became the catalyst for starting her own business. From her education and corporate branding expertise to selling her first company at 32, Mary reveals h...

What does it take to create an exceptional employee experience? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, we break down the journey from candidate to employee and explore how these experiences shape your organization's value proposition. Learn why it’s essential to deliver on your promises, communicate your "why us," and create a seamless transition that not only attracts top talent bu...

In this quick episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley Rexroad offers a brief glimpse into what you can expect at our upcoming webinar, Return to Office , on Thursday, February 13th at 12pm . If you’re preparing to transition back to the office or support your team in doing so, this webinar will provide strategies for easing into the new workplace dynamics, boosting productivity, recon...

In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR? , we explore the evolving world of talent acquisition. Are your job descriptions clear and transparent? Are you identifying transferable skills in candidates? Are you conducting interviewing training for your hiring managers and recruiters? Get ready to elevate your hiring game for better recruitment, better hires, and better retention. Learn mo...

Ready to make 2025 your year of growth and opportunity? In this episode, we explore how to set aside time for learning, enrich your existing skills, and identify new opportunities. Discover the importance of relationship building and learn how to choose 3-5 key personal goals to prioritize and schedule throughout the year. Tune in to create a roadmap for a more intentional and successful 2025! Lea...

With the January 1, 2025, federal salary threshold adjustment rejected, HR leaders are left navigating uncertainty. In this episode, we discuss what the decision means, how to communicate transparently with employees, and why keeping your team informed matters—even when the outcome is unclear. Learn more about CTPE⁠ ⁠Podcast Disclaimer⁠ #HR #USF #HigherEd #FLSA #Business #Skills #2025 #Strategy #P...