What the Heck Is Happening in HR?
A lively podcast from krexconsulting and the USF Office of Corporate Training & Professional Education. Each episode features engaging guests and dives into one timely HR tidbit—practical, candid, and straight to the point. The show aims to provide actionable insights for HR professionals and business leaders.
Episodes
What Happens When You Eliminate Your Future Leaders?
Flattening the organization can look smart on a spreadsheet. The long-term cost may not show up for another three to five years.In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad examines what organizations risk when they eliminate middle-management roles. These positions serve as a critical leadership pipeline, giving emerging leaders opportunities to develop judgment, learn thro
If You Won’t Act on the Survey, Don’t Ask
Employee engagement surveys can build trust — or quietly destroy it.In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores what happens when organizations repeatedly ask employees for feedback and fail to act on what they hear. Over time, participation drops, cynicism rises and the survey itself becomes part of the problem.Kelley makes the case for smaller, more frequent puls
HR and Operations Are Now the Same Business Conversation
For decades, many organizations followed a familiar model: operations ran the business, while HR handled the people.That model no longer reflects how work gets done.In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores the growing interdependence between HR and operations — and why workforce decisions have become operational decisions.Talent deployment, team design and skill
Leaders Are Being Measured Differently
You can get a great performance review and still wonder why someone else got the promotion.In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explains why: most organizations have two performance systems operating at the same time.There’s the formal system — ratings, documentation and annual reviews. Then there’s the informal system influencing who receives visibility, resources a
Labor Relations Are Back. Are Leaders Ready?
Labor relations are showing up in workplaces and industries where many leaders never expected to encounter them.In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad looks at the return of labor relations as a current leadership issue, from organizing drives and negotiations to decertification efforts and unfair labor practice charges.The bigger takeaway for HR leaders? Pay attention
You Don’t Have an HR Problem. You Have a Manager Problem.
Organizations often look to HR when turnover rises, engagement drops, or workplace complaints increase. Kelley Rexroad argues they may be looking in the wrong place. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley examines the critical role managers play in shaping employee experiences and organizational outcomes. Drawing on years of research and workplace trends, she explains why mana
High Performers Are Quietly Opting Out of Leadership
For decades, organizations assumed top performers naturally wanted to become managers. Today, many are saying no. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores why high-performing employees are increasingly opting out of leadership roles. They're watching stressed managers, unclear decision-making authority, growing accountability, and limited support—and decidin
Gen Z Isn’t Quietly Quitting. They’re Telling You What’s Broken.
Is Gen Z really disengaged, or are they exposing workplace issues other generations learned to tolerate? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad challenges common assumptions about the newest generation in the workforce. She explores how Gen Z's expectations around feedback, flexibility, transparency, and meaningful work may be less about entitlement and more about
HR Is Being Asked to Fix Problems It Doesn’t Control
HR is often held accountable for employee engagement, retention, culture, and workplace trust. Yet many of the decisions that drive those outcomes happen elsewhere. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores the growing authority gap facing HR professionals. From damaged trust and unresolved manager issues to leadership decisions made without HR input, organizatio
Employees Don’t Want Flexibility. They Want Predictability.
For years, workplace conversations have centered on flexibility as the key to employee satisfaction. Kelley Rexroad challenges that assumption. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, she argues that what employees truly crave is predictability: clear expectations, consistent communication, and the ability to plan their lives with confidence. Using unlimited PTO as a powerful example,
Culture Can’t Be Engineered...But It Can Be Destroyed Overnight
Most organizations talk about culture as if it can be built through mission statements, values posters, and team-building exercises. Kelley Rexroad argues that culture works differently. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, she explores how culture is shaped by the behaviors leaders reinforce, ignore, and excuse every day. From overlooked complaints to promotions that send the wron
The HR Profession’s Best-Kept Secret? Inside the National Human Resources Association
In Part 2 of Kelley Rexroad’s conversation with Stephani Dutcher, Vice President of HR Strategic Business Partnerships at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, the discussion shifts to the National Human Resources Association (NHRA)—one of the nation’s longest-standing professional organizations dedicated to advancing HR. Stephanie shares the organization’s fascinating history, its roots dating back to 1
How HR Leaders Are Built: A Conversation with Stephani Dutcher
In this special interview episode, Kelley Rexroad sits down with Stephani Dutcher, Vice President of HR Strategic Business Partnerships at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, to discuss her journey into human resources, the evolving role of HR business partners, and what it takes to build a people-first culture at scale. Stephani shares insights on leadership, employee engagement, curiosity, and the sk
The Next 250 Years of Work: A Crystal Ball for HR
In the final installment of the 250th Birthday Series, Kelley Rexroad looks ahead instead of back. What will work, leadership, and HR look like in 25, 100, or even 250 years? From AI-driven workplaces and skills-based hiring to portable careers, evolving labor laws, and the future of human connection at work, this episode explores the trends shaping the next era of employment. While technology wil
The Presidents Who Built the Workplace (and the Ones Who Changed It)
As part two of the special 250th Birthday Series, Kelley Rexroad explores the presidents whose decisions shaped the modern American workplace. From Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal reforms to the Civil Rights Act, OSHA, the ADA, FMLA, ACA, and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, this episode traces the legislation and leadership that transformed work over the last century. Whether expanding wor
250 Years of Work in America: How Did We Get Here?
As America approaches its 250th birthday, Kelley Rexroad launches a special three-part series exploring the history of work in the United States. In this first episode, she traces the evolution of the American workplace from 1776 to today, covering labor movements, industrialization, civil rights legislation, workplace safety, immigration compliance, healthcare reform, and the foundations of moder
Your Org Chart Is a Lie
Most organizations rely on org charts to explain how work gets done. The problem? Org charts rarely reflect reality. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores the hidden influence networks, informal leaders, and “shadow organizations” that drive decisions, shape culture, and determine whether change initiatives succeed or fail. From onboarding and leadership tran
Promotions Are Becoming Riskier Than Firings
Promotions used to feel like a reward. In today’s workplace, they often feel like a risk. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores why more employees are hesitating to move into leadership roles and why organizations are struggling with promotion decisions that carry long-term consequences. From accountability without authority to lack of management training and
Hiring Is a Marketing Problem
Most organizations think they have a hiring problem. Kelley Rexroad argues they actually have a marketing problem. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley breaks down why outdated job postings, poor candidate communication, and confusing hiring processes are damaging employer brands and driving talent away before interviews even begin. From ghosting candidates to vague salary r
Ghost Jobs Are Gaslighting Job Seekers
What happens when job postings aren’t actually real? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad takes a hard look at the rise of “ghost jobs” and the growing trust crisis inside modern hiring. From fake openings used to build resume pipelines to postings designed to create the appearance of growth, this conversation explores the emotional and professional toll on job seeke
AI Didn’t Take the Job - Your Manager Did
Everyone’s talking about AI replacing jobs, but this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR challenges a deeper issue: bad management. Kelley Rexroad explores why employees were leaving long before AI became the headline—and why leadership quality still shapes retention, trust, and performance more than technology ever will. AI can automate tasks, but it cannot replace human leadership, prese
Burnout Isn’t What You Think It Is
Burnout is one of the most talked-about workplace issues—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad challenges the idea that burnout is caused by workload or a lack of resilience. Instead, she reframes it as a systems issue driven by lack of control, unclear expectations, and inconsistent fairness. When effort no longer feels meaningful o
Leadership Accountability Isn’t Optional
Accountability is often listed as a core value—but employees are increasingly seeing a different reality. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores the growing gap between expectations placed on employees and behaviors modeled by leaders. When accountability flows only downward, trust erodes quickly. This episode unpacks how inconsistent leadership behavior impac
Feedback Is Broken (But Not for the Reason You Think)
Feedback is one of the most important tools in the workplace—and one of the most avoided. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad breaks down why feedback feels delayed, inconsistent, and emotionally charged in today’s organizations. The issue isn’t feedback itself—it’s the outdated systems around it. Annual reviews, unclear expectations, and fear-driven conversations h
The HR Reckoning
HR is being rewritten in real time—and the expectations have never been higher. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad explores the growing tension within the role as it expands across strategy, compliance, culture, and leadership. As visibility increases and trust becomes harder to earn, HR is no longer operating behind the scenes. This episode breaks down why credibi
Psychological Safety Is Not Soft...It’s Performance
Psychological safety is often misunderstood as a “soft” concept but in reality, it’s a critical driver of performance. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR, Kelley Rexroad breaks down what psychological safety actually means and why it matters more than ever in today’s complex work environment. When employees don’t feel safe to speak up, organizations lose insight, innovation, and e
Return to Office: Is It About Collaboration or Control?
Return-to-office policies continue to spark debate across organizations, but the real drivers behind these decisions are often more complex than leaders admit. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley examines why many return-to-office conversations aren’t actually about collaboration or culture—they’re about uncertainty, visibility, and control. She explores how remote work ch
Decision Fatigue Is the New Burnout
Burnout isn’t just about long hours anymore. In today’s workplace, many leaders are overwhelmed by the constant stream of high-stakes decisions they must make under pressure, with incomplete information and increasing visibility. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores why decision fatigue has become one of the biggest hidden drivers of leadership burnout. She explain
HR Law Is Moving Faster Than Leaders Think
Employment law is evolving faster than many leaders realize. What once felt slow, predictable, and largely federal has become fast-moving, fragmented, and increasingly enforced at state and local levels. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explains why HR is often the first to see legal risk forming—and why those warnings are sometimes misunderstood as unnecessary caution.
Staying Positive During a Job Search (Without Gaslighting Yourself)
Job searching today can feel exhausting, confusing, and emotionally draining, even when the job market looks strong on paper. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores what real positivity looks like during a job hunt. Instead of the usual “just stay positive” advice, she discusses how job seekers can stay grounded, maintain agency, and protect their confidence in a pro
HR is More than Just a Support Function
For years, HR has been viewed as a support function: called in to handle issues after decisions are already made. But the reality of modern work has changed that role dramatically. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores why HR now sits at the intersection of people, policy, leadership behavior, and organizational risk. She explains how HR often sees patterns and prob
Culture is Tolerance
Organizations talk about culture constantly, but culture is not what’s written on a website or printed on a poster. It’s what gets reinforced, ignored, or excused every day. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores how tolerance shapes culture more than slogans ever could. From high performers who behave badly to inconsistent enforcement and silence around concerns, sh
Managers Are Not Okay
Managers are carrying more than most organizations realize. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores why today’s managers are quietly overwhelmed and why traditional leadership training hasn’t kept up with the demands of 2026. From hybrid teams and constant change to emotional labor and shifting authority, the role has fundamentally evolved. This conversation challenge
Why Employees Are Exhausted
Employees say they like their jobs, believe in the mission, and respect their teams—so why are they still so tired? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley unpacks why modern exhaustion looks different than traditional burnout. Today’s fatigue is driven less by long hours and more by ambiguity, constant change, blurred boundaries, and emotional labor. She challenges leaders to
When Competency Becomes Threatening
What happens when doing your job well no longer earns trust, but creates tension? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores why competence can feel destabilizing in unhealthy systems. She unpacks how expertise exposes weak processes, challenges fragile authority, and disrupts power built on optics instead of skill. When competence is sidelined, diluted, or labeled “diff
The Crisis of Competence at Work
Why does calm, capable leadership feel so rare—and so noticeable—at work today? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley examines what our collective fascination with competence really signals about modern workplaces. She explores how clarity, accountability, and authority have been diluted by noise, politics, and performance theater, leaving true expertise harder to find and h
Critical Thinking in the Age of AI
AI is moving fast in the workplace, but speed isn’t the same as wisdom. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley explores why critical thinking matters more than ever as AI becomes embedded in recruiting, performance management, and employee communication. She breaks down the risks of uncritical adoption, the limits of automation, and the responsibility HR holds in interrogatin
The Real Housewives of Change
Change isn’t new—and neither are you. In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley shares a distilled version of her Real Housewives of Change webinar, reframing change as something we’ve already practiced through careers, caregiving, loss, and constant reinvention. She introduces the idea of “versions of ourselves” that show up during disruption and offers practical reminders for
HR Core Concepts Preview!
In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, we’re giving you a preview of USF’s HR Core Concepts course! 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 explore how HR strategies align with
Tearing Up the Hiring Playbook
Hiring is shifting fast, and it’s time to rethink how we evaluate talent. In this episode, Kelley explores why organizations are moving past degree requirements and embracing skills-based hiring, supported by data showing its impact on performance, retention, and diversity. She also digs into the long-term workforce planning gap, the need for critical thinking, and the value of upskilling and non-
Understanding the Real Impact of Pay Transparency
Pay transparency is expanding quickly, and many organizations are feeling the pressure to catch up. In this episode, Kelley walks through what these laws actually require, why they’re accelerating, and how transparency exposes deeper issues like pay gaps, compression, and trust. She shares practical guidance on conducting pay audits, communicating with employees, and strengthening your employer br
Spotting the Signs of Quiet Cracking
Ever noticed a team member slowly pulling back, even though they’re still showing up every day? In this episode, Kelley digs into “quiet cracking,” a growing workplace pattern where employees feel stuck, depleted, and unsure of their next move. She walks through the data, the behaviors leaders should watch for, and the deeper dynamics behind burnout, job hugging, and disengagement. You’ll hear pra
Missed Opportunities and the Power of Partnering with HR
Ever felt like HR is just the department you go to when something’s gone wrong? Kelley Rexroad shares a heartfelt story that reframes that mindset—turning HR from a last resort into a powerful partner for growth and leadership. From compliance to strategy, she explores how managers can build trust, avoid costly missteps, and strengthen their teams through collaboration. Whether you’re new to manag
Employee Engagement by the Numbers: What Data Reveals
How do you know if your team is truly engaged? This episode explores the power of data in uncovering what’s really happening with employee engagement and talent acquisition. We break down key metrics—from absenteeism to new hire success rates—and share stories that highlight why tracking the right numbers matters. HR leaders and managers will discover actionable ways to use data for better hiring,
If It’s Not Recorded, Did It Really Happen in HR?
Ever wondered if your HR data is telling the whole story? In this episode, we dig into why “data or it didn’t happen” is more than a catchphrase—it’s a mindset. From turnover trends to the true cost of your workforce, we reflect on the essential metrics every HR professional should track. You’ll walk away with practical insights on retention, compensation, and budgeting that can transform your dec
Gratitude at Work: The Power of Thankfulness
Ever notice how a simple “thank you” can change your day? In this heartfelt episode, we reflect on the impact of gratitude—sharing personal stories, moments of giving, and the ripple effect kindness has in our workplaces and communities. Discover how recognizing others, supporting your team, and giving back can transform HR and leadership. Whether you’re an HR professional, leader, or employee, yo
Navigating Change: Why Communication Matters Most
Ever felt blindsided by workplace changes? You’re not alone. In this episode, we reflect on how HR and leaders often miss the mark by “springing” change on employees instead of preparing them thoughtfully. Discover why understanding your team’s journey, communicating in bite-sized pieces, and celebrating progress are key to successful change management. HR professionals, leaders, and employees wil
Retention Starts Before Day One: The Power of Employment Brand
Ever wondered why some organizations keep their best people while others struggle? In this episode, we explore how retention truly begins at recruitment—starting with your employment brand. Discover why defining and living your values matters, how candidate experiences shape engagement, and what leaders can do to deliver on their promises. HR professionals, leaders, and employees alike will walk a
AI in HR: Opportunity or Risk for the Modern Workplace?
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is quietly transforming HR? In this episode, Bill Carter shares real-world stories and practical advice on using AI to streamline HR tasks, boost engagement, and avoid common pitfalls. From applicant tracking to rewriting emails, Bill reflects on the promise and challenges of AI—especially around data privacy and compliance. HR professionals and leaders wi
What’s Behind That Cupboard? Reflecting on Growth & Imperfection
Ever notice how something as simple as a chipped mug can tell a bigger story? In this episode of What the Heck Is Happening in HR?, Kelley walks us through how everyday objects become metaphors for our career journeys — the rough edges, the transitions, the lessons. If you’ve ever questioned whether your “path” is too messy or your growth too uneven, this one’s for you. Join us as we embrace imper
Small Business vs. Big Company: Finding the Right Fit for Your Career
In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?,Kelley responds to a question many job seekers face: ShouldI work for a small business or a large company? Using real-life insights and strategic reflection, she explores the pros and cons of each path. From personal connection and flexibility in small businesses to structure and career pathways in larger organizations, Kelley walks through what
Independent Contractors: What Employers Need to Know (Again)
In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley dives into the ever-shifting world of independent contractor classification—and why it matters now more than ever. With the political pendulum swinging once again, employers may find themselves facing new flexibility in how they engage workers… but also new risks if they don’t tread carefully.Kelley breaks down key resources like Fact Sh
Opinion Letters Are Back: What HR and Employers Need to Know
In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley breaks down the return—and expansion—of Department of Labor opinion letters, a critical yet often overlooked resource for HR professionals, business owners, and legal teams.What exactly is an opinion letter? How do they differ from administrator interpretations? And why does it matter that they’re back under the current administration—wi
Stories from the HR Department: Lessons in Partnership and Pitfalls (Part 5 with Mark Koulianos)
In this final part of our series with Mark Koulianos, we explore real-world stories from the HR department. Mark shares moments when HR proved to be an essential strategic partner as well as times when their involvement created challenges. From handling difficult terminations to addressing workplace safety concerns, his candid reflections offer practical lessons on how HR can strengthen its suppor
Upskilling and Reskilling in Action: Building a Flexible Workforce (Part 4 with Mark Koulianos)
Our conversation with Mark Koulianos continues as we focus on the difference between upskilling and reskilling and why both are essential for a workforce that can adapt to change. Mark explains how responsibility for skill development is shared between employees and employers, the importance of a coordinated approach to talent development, and why strategies must reach beyond high performers. We a
Future-Proofing the Workforce: Lifelong Learning and Reskilling (Part 3 with Mark Koulianos)
In Part 3 of our conversation with Mark Koulianos, Kelley Rexroad dives into the evolving landscape of workforce development. From youth to retirees, Mark explores how foundational skills like process improvement, project management, and leadership are becoming essential across industries — especially as technology, AI, and generational shifts reshape the workplace.This episode unpacks the urgent
Three Essential Skills for Success: Communication, Relationships & Critical Thinking (Part 2 with Mark Koulianos)
In Part 2 of our conversation with Mark Koulianos, Kelley Rexroad expands on the three skills that can make or break careers in today’s workplace: communication, relationship-building, and critical thinking. Together, they explore how these abilities are evolving in an era of AI, remote collaboration, and rapid organizational change — and why they’re more vital than ever.Mark shares actionable str
200 Episodes Strong: Mark Koulianos on Career Pivots & Transferable Skills
We’re celebrating our 200th episode by kicking off a new multi-part series with Mark Koulianos!You may remember Mark from our recent episode on USF’s new HR Certificate — but this time, we go deeper. Mark takes us through his fascinating career journey, from launching an import-export business to leading global operations to transforming continuing education at the University of South Florida.He s
Modern HR, Real Impact: What’s New with USF’s HR Certificate w/ Mark Koulianos
In this special episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, host Kelley Rexroad welcomes Mark Koulianos, Assistant Vice President of University Community Partnerships at the University of South Florida and the leader of USF’s Office of Corporate Training and Professional Education.Together, they break down what’s new—and what’s next—for USF’s refreshed Human Resources Certificate program. With o
Close Your Eyes: The Life-Changing Power of a Job Offer
In this reflective episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley invites listeners to close their eyes (unless you're driving!) and return to that powerful, emotional moment: receiving a job offer that changed your life.She reminds us that talent acquisition is not just about filling seats—it’s about changing lives, shaping families’ futures, and building company legacies. From compensa
What’s in Your Cupboard? A Reflection on Growth, Gratitude, and Imperfection
In this special episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley invites listeners to pause and reflect—by opening the cupboard.What begins as a story about mismatched mugs turns into a powerful metaphor for our careers, relationships, and life experiences. From chipped cups that carry the weight of difficult conversations to matching dish sets symbolizing seasons of stability, Kelley explores
A Challenge for Both Sides: Employees, Employers—It’s Time to Step Up
In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley lays down a challenge—for both employees and employers. With a persistent talent shortage and rapid technological change, employees must take charge of their career development and stay curious, while employers must stop relying on outdated recruiting and customer service models that alienate the very people they claim to value.From skil
The Real Employee Experience: Stop Surveying and Start Listening
Is your organization truly delivering a meaningful employee experience—or just going through the motions? In this episode of What the Heck is Happening in HR?, Kelley Rexroad unpacks the common ways companies are getting it wrong, from outdated onboarding to disengaging surveys and cookie-cutter training programs.Kelley challenges the obsession with perks and instead emphasizes using tech tools in
Pivot Points: Navigating People Challenges and Workplace Change – Mary Stockwell’s Insights (Pt. 2)
In Part 2 of our conversation with Meri Stockwell, we dive deep into the evolving world of workplace dynamics. From the friction of returning to the office to the rising demand for flexibility, purpose, and well-being, Meri shares what she’s seeing across industries and what organizations must start doing to retain top talent.We explore topics like hybrid work communication fails, the role of empa
Pivot Points: From Procurement Leader to Entrepreneur – Mary Stockwell’s Story (Pt. 1)
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-solvin
Change Is Coming (Again): How HR Professionals Can Cope with Constant Disruption
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—s
AI in HR: How to Use It, Why It Matters, and What’s Next
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
Turning Challenges Into Purpose: Sharon Fekete on Mental Health and the Workplace (Pt 2)
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 yo
Turning Challenges Into Purpose: Sharon Fekete on Mental Health and the Workplace (Pt 1)
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 person
Modernizing HR: People, Processes, and Purpose
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 comp
The Price of Love: Why Pet Insurance Matters for Employees and Employers
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
Severance, Paperclips, and HR Realness with the Evil HR Lady
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 quir
Bringing Back Benefits: Why Total Rewards Aren’t Just About Pay
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 i
Approachable Leadership with Phillip Wilson : Pt 3
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 organization
Approachable Leadership with Phillip Wilson : Pt 2
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-C
Approachable Leadership with Phillip Wilson : Pt 1
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 the
Rebranding Success: A Journey with Mary Maloney Pt 2
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
Building Workplace Communities: Creating Connection and Purpose
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
Burnout or Boreout? Finding Your Work-Life Sweet Spot
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 th
Building HR Foundations: A Preview of USF’s HR Core Concepts Course
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 explore
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