#78 OTOH, John O’Brien, producer of On the Other Hand & former Human Resources and public education professional, part 1, 7 22 24

April and Glen welcome to the microphone someone who is usually handling our podcasts from the technical side: John O’Brien, who serves as producer and editor for 

On The Other Hand. John combines 33 years as a senior corporate human resources and training executive with thirteen years in public education. He also has decades of experience with technical aspects of video and audio editing. During his retirement, John has been active with community volunteering work as a member and an officer with Rotary International, Kiwanis International, Optimist International, Literacy Council, The United Way, Junior Achievement, and AmeriCorps. In this first episode, John briefly reviews his early adult life and influences, along with the development over time of his political leanings. Next, he takes us through significant moments in his experience handling even worldwide audio/visual broadcasts. John then provides insight into the world of corporate management and managerial/employee relationships. Based on his long experience, John offers key analyses on the dynamics at work in the private sector from the perspective of a Human Resources manager and the balancing act required in serving both sides and ultimately, the stakeholders and legal foundations of the business. Drawing parallels between his experience and the interest in Braver Angels of encouraging respectful negotiation of political differences, John also points out the differences and difficulties in the management/employee dynamics.