Bringing the Human back to Human Resources

247. From Counter Mindsets to Success: Why Mindset Is Over Everything feat. Scott Shickler

This week, Traci sits down with Scott Shickler, one of the world's leading experts on mindset-based empowerment and CEO of Seven Mindsets. Scott has interviewed billionaires, Olympic athletes, and celebrities (including an unforgettable three-hour dinner with Oprah Winfrey) to uncover what truly drives success.Spoiler alert: It's not talent, luck, or connections. It's mindset.Scott reveals the seven specific mindsets that separate high achievers from everyone else, why our brains come "factory-loaded" with limitation software, and how even the most successful people battle 30,000-50,000 automatic negative thoughts daily. Plus, he shares his vision for transforming HR from "Human Resources" to "Human Success."What We Cover:Why Oprah says mindset is "over everything" (even with all her resources and opportunities)Richard Branson's surprising regrets and why he'd "dream bigger" despite owning 400 companiesThe "one inch higher" challenge that reveals how we limit our own potentialHow to identify and flip your "ANTs" (Automatic Negative Thoughts)Why Scott returned as CEO after his company's culture shifted away from mindset-based practicesThe revolutionary MQ (Mindset Quotient) that measures how your mindsets compare to world-class achieversKey Quote: "Your mindsets matter. They determine the quality of your life at home, at school, and in the workplace." – Scott SchicklerFREE GIFT: Take Scott's MQ assessment and access your personal AI mindset coach at meetmq.com (use code: HUMAN)Connect with Scott here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-shickler-6b5575b0/Website: sevenmindsets.comConnect with Traci here: https://linktr.ee/HRTraciDisclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by whom Traci Chernoff is actively employed.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products or services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

245. Policy Pulse: Hyperlocal HR Compliance and What to Know about Free Speech feat Bryan Driscoll

In this month's Policy Pulse episode, Traci and Bryan explore the increasingly complex landscape of HR compliance across U.S. states and cities. With federal deregulation on one side and stricter state-level laws on the other, HR professionals are feeling the squeeze.They discuss how employers can stay compliant with an evolving "patchwork" of laws—from pay transparency and AI in hiring to hyperlocal handbook requirements.Plus, they tackle the ever-relevant topic of free speech in the workplace: what you can say, what you should say, and what might get you fired.This episode is essential listening for any HR leader navigating multi-state operations, remote workforces, and the realities of a lean HR team.What We Cover:How state-specific laws are reshaping HR practicesWhen to use addendums vs. separate employee handbooksThe compliance pitfalls of national job postingsWhat "free speech" really means at work (hint: it’s not what you think)Why documentation is everything—and when it's better not to write things downKey Quote:“Say it, forget it. Write it, regret it.” — Traci (quoting Dorinda Medley, a RHONY legend)Got a question for Bryan & Traci for an upcoming episode? Email Traci at contact@hrtraci.comNeed help with handbook updates? Visit hrtraci.comConnect with Traci here: https://linktr.ee/HRTraciDisclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by whom Traci Chernoff is actively employed.

Ep 245. Supporting Employees Through Mental Health Struggles feat. Matthew Megson

In this deeply moving and eye-opening episode, Traci sits down with Matthew Megson, an HR professional and mental health advocate, to discuss how HR leaders can better support employees navigating mental health challenges. With over 21 years in the field and personal experience living with bipolar disorder, Matthew brings a unique dual perspective, both as someone who has created accommodations and as someone who has needed them.Together, Traci and Matthew explore the critical need for empathy, the dangers of stigma, and practical strategies for handling mental health disclosures in the workplace. This conversation touches on suicide prevention, legal considerations, and how to balance organizational needs with human needs, making it a must-listen for anyone in people leadership.Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about mental health, suicide prevention, and personal struggles. Please take care while listening.If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for free, confidential support anytime.Connect with Matthew Megson here: Website: Accommodation AnalyzedLinkedIn: Matthew Megson on LinkedInConnect with Traci:⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraciChapters:⁠00:00 - Intro & Episode Overview01:45 - Meet Matthew Megson03:00 - Personal Story: Bipolar Diagnosis & Disclosures08:30 - Where HR Often Gets It Wrong14:00 - The Role of Empathy in HR20:00 - Supporting Employees in Remote Environments26:00 - What Employees Should Know Before Disclosing31:00 - Building Better Accommodation Processes33:00 - Where to Learn More from MatthewIf you found our discussion insightful, we'd like you to take a moment to rate our podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners who are passionate about these topics. You can also leave a review and tell us what you loved or what you'd like to hear more of—we're all ears!Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!Disclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by whom Traci Chernoff is actively employed.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products or services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Ep 244. Empathy Without Drowning:Managing Burnout & Emotional Overload in HR feat. Lindsey Carnick

This week on Bringing the Human Back to Human Resources, we’re talking about what it really means to be the “shield” in HR, and how to protect yourself from burnout while doing it.Traci is joined by Lindsey Carnick, psychotherapist and founder of Onward Psychological Services, to unpack the emotional weight of HR, especially when you’re stuck between the needs of your company and the needs of your people.With years of experience supporting high-stress professionals, Lindsey brings clarity, compassion, and a few unforgettable analogies (hello, cereal and climate!) to help HR leaders and people managers navigate stress without drowning in it.Whether you’re rethinking your boundaries, looking for coping strategies, or wondering why work suddenly feels heavier than it should. This conversation will help you take a deep breath and start where you are.What You’ll Learn:Why HR professionals often act as emotional “shields” in the workplaceThe difference between empathy and sympathy (and why it matters)How to support others without absorbing their emotionsWhen it's time to leave a role or organization, and how to know if it’s a “weather” or “climate” issueWhy alignment between your personal values and your company’s values is non-negotiableConnect with Lindsey Carnick here: Website: onwardpsychservices.com Instagram: @OnwardPsychServices LinkedIn: Lindsey Carnick Connect with Traci here: https://linktr.ee/HRTraciDisclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by whom Traci Chernoff is actively employed.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products or services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

243. Cheer Leadership: Energizing Workplaces with Positivity and Purpose feat: Stefanie Adams

This week on Bringing the Human Back to Human Resources, we're shaking things up... literally.Traci is joined by Stefanie Adams, keynote speaker, author of Cheer Leadership, and Chief Empowerment Officer, to talk about how leaders can bring energy, trust, and humanity back into the workplace.With 20+ years of leadership experience and a background in cheerleading, Stefanie shares her powerful "Cheer Leadership" framework that challenges outdated ideas about team building. Learn why connection, care, challenge, celebration, and inspiration are the five ingredients every leader needs—and how you can start applying them today.Whether you're leading hybrid teams, managing burnout, or just trying to bring some joy back into your workday, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped.What You’ll Learn:Why leaders need to stop throwing people into “team stunts” without trustHow to change your team’s energy—especially on tough daysThe power of creating psychological safety and celebrating small winsHow fun and productivity can (and should) coexistWhy modeling positive behavior gives others permission to do the sameConnect with Stefanie Adams here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniezadams/ Instagram: @corporatecheerleaderFind Stehanie's Book Here: Cheer Leadership ⁠Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraciDisclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by whom Traci Chernoff is actively employed.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products or services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.