• Putting People First in a Tech-Forward Hiring Landscape
    Jul 8 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode, Traci Chernoff interviews Steven Swan, CEO of the Swan Group Executive Search Firm, discussing the evolving landscape of recruiting, particularly the influence of AI. They explore the balance between speed and quality in recruitment, the importance of human connection, and the advantages of external recruiting. Steven shares insights on crafting effective resumes and the purpose behind his podcast, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence in decision-making during job changes.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Steve Swan and His Journey

    03:04 The Impact of AI on Recruiting

    06:02 Quality vs. Speed in Recruitment

    09:06 The Role of Human Connection in Recruitment

    12:00 The Advantages of External Recruiting

    15:11 Crafting Effective Resumes and LinkedIn Profiles

    17:56 The Purpose Behind the Podcast

    20:58 Advice for Aspiring Recruiters

    23:59 Navigating Job Changes and Emotional Intelligence


    We hope you enjoyed this episode with Steven Swan. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    About Our Guest:

    Steve Swan stands at the helm of The Swan Group Executive Search Firm as its CEO and Principal, carving a niche in the Pharma/Biotech industries with a keen focus on IT. His fervor for industry insights and a knack for bridging the gap between top professionals and industry demands have been instrumental in elevating organizations and propelling careers forward.


    Steve helms the popular podcast “Biotech Bytes.” A show that offers a stage for dialogue with IT luminaries in Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals. Each episode delves into the minds of industry trailblazers, unpacking best practices and strategies that shape the life sciences realm.


    Steve’s academic background in Psychology has helped him to understand both parties' deeper needs and motivations which is paramount to delivering candidates who become long-term assets to the company. At the core of The Swan Group’s philosophy is the ability to discern and fulfill what success means for both candidates and clients.


    Outside of work, Steve, once an avid mountain bike racer, has reignited his passion for cycling and aspires to traverse the U.S. on two wheels. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and two daughters.


    Connect with Steven Swan here:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup/

    • Website: https://swangroup.net/


      Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠


      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.

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    33 mins
  • 234. The Power of Perspective in the Workplace
    Jul 1 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode, Traci Chernoff and Howard Miller discuss the importance of levity in caregiving and the workplace. Howard shares his experiences with aging parents and how humor can be a coping mechanism during challenging times. They explore the significance of perspective and reframing situations to reduce stress and improve work-life balance. The conversation also touches on the inspiration behind Howard's book, 'Burdens and Blessings,' and the lessons learned from navigating personal and professional challenges.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Levity in Caregiving

    03:00 The Importance of Perspective and Reframing

    05:59 Balancing Work and Personal Life

    09:09 The Role of Levity in Reducing Stress

    11:55 Navigating Personal Challenges and Professional Life

    14:46 Inspiration Behind 'Burdens and Blessings'

    18:05 Lessons Learned from Caregiving Experiences

    22:54 Navigating Work-Life Balance in a Remote World

    29:48 The Importance of Reflection and Significance in Life

    36:26 Building Relationships for Effective Leadership

    39:37 The Balance Between Business and Humanity


    We hope you enjoyed this episode with Howard Miller. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    About Our Guest:

    Howard Miller is the #1 bestselling author of Burdens & Blessings: A Lighter-Hearted Approach for Middle-Aged Folks Dealing with Aging Parents, a heartfelt and humorous exploration of the challenges and joys of caring for aging parents. Through personal anecdotes, Miller shares his journey of navigating health issues, emotional struggles, and loss, emphasizing the transformative power of levity as a coping mechanism.


    With over ten years of experience teaching management skills in the corporate world, Howard empowers professionals with the tools to work smarter, not harder, to achieve greater results.


    A sought-after speaker, Howard engages corporate and community audiences with relatable stories, showing how levity can strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and positively impact a company’s ROI. In addition to his writing and speaking, Howard is a successful entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the bookkeeping industry. His work bridges the connection between processing grief and approaching life’s everyday challenges, inspiring others to face adversity—at home and in the workplace—with resilience, perspective, and levity.


    Connect with Howard Miller here:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-miller/

    • Website: https://www.fulcrumpointpartners.com/


      Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠


      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.

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    41 mins
  • 233. Maintaining Humanity in AI-Integrated Recruitment
    Jun 24 2025
    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.In this episode, Traci Chernoff and Jennifer Hahn discuss the integration of AI in recruiting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a human touch in the hiring process. They explore how AI can enhance efficiency, the strategic role of recruiters, and the significance of personal branding in resumes. The conversation also addresses fears surrounding AI in the workforce and the necessity of human discernment in candidate evaluations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI in Recruiting02:56 The Role of AI in Enhancing Recruitment05:54 Strategic Human Element in AI Utilization08:56 AI Tools and Candidate Experience12:01 Navigating AI Fears in the Workforce14:57 The Importance of Personal Touch in Resumes18:05 Standing Out in the Job Market20:57 Assessments and AI in Candidate Evaluation23:56 The Human Touch in Recruitment Processes27:08 Final Thoughts on AI and Human InteractionWe hope you enjoyed this episode with Jennifer Hahn. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.About Our Guest: Jennifer Hahn is the Founder & CEO of J Recruiting Services, a boutique recruiting firm that partners with leading retail brands across the U.S. to deliver top-tier talent. Jenn’s professional journey began as a District Manager for a Top 10 Global Retailer, where she successfully led operations teams for five years. She later transitioned into sales leadership roles before finding her true calling in recruiting. It didn’t take long for Jenn to realize she had discovered her zone of genius. In 2017, Jenn founded J Recruiting Services to serve the industry she knows and loves—retail. A self-proclaimed “retail nerd,” she created the firm to deliver tailored recruiting solutions that align with her clients’ unique needs. Today, as CEO, Jenn leads her team in placing top talent in roles across store operations, warehouse leadership, and executive positions for major retail brands across the nation. Her team’s mission is clear: deliver exceptional results that encourage both clients and candidates to expect more from external recruiters. They’re more than just recruiters—they’re true partners.Recognized as a Top Woman in Grocery by Progressive Grocer in 2023 and featured in Yahoo Finance, Jenn is passionate about giving back. She is a member of NextUp, an organization advancing women in business, and mentors veterans transitioning to corporate careers through American Corporate Partners (ACP). Jenn’s commitment to empowering others and connecting great people to great opportunities is at the heart of everything she does.Connect with Jennifer Hahn here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-hahn-5698b66a/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/jrecruitingservices/ Website: https://jrecruitingservices.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JRecruitingServices/ 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.
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    38 mins
  • 232. Let's Discuss: Ames v. Ohio and Texas Taking the Lead on AI Regulation feat. Bryan Driscoll
    Jun 17 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode of the Bringing the Human Back to Human Resources podcast, Traci Chernoff and Bryan Driscoll discuss recent legal developments affecting HR and employment law. They delve into the Ames v. Ohio case, which addresses reverse discrimination, and the implications for HR practices. The conversation then shifts to the Catholic Charities v. Wisconsin case regarding tax exemptions for religious organizations. Finally, they explore Texas's new AI regulation, its potential impact on employers, and the broader implications for workplace fairness and technology use in hiring processes.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Recent Legal Developments

    01:18 Ames v. Ohio: Understanding Reverse Discrimination

    16:02 Catholic Charities v. Wisconsin: Tax Exemption Insights

    28:22 Texas AI Regulation: A New Frontier

    39:47 Conclusion and Future Implications


    Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    We hope you enjoyed this month’s Policy Pulse episode. If 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!


    Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠

    Connect with Bryan:

    -Website: https://bryanjdriscoll.com/

    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanjohndriscoll/


    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.

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    41 mins
  • 231. Certifications: Necessary or Not?
    Jun 10 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode, Traci Chernoff reflects on her podcast journey, discusses the relevance of HR certifications, and emphasizes the importance of experience over formal qualifications. She shares insights on how temporary roles can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities, encouraging listeners to consider these positions as stepping stones in their careers.


    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome Back and Podcast Evolution

    02:56 The Value of Certifications in HR

    06:11 Experience vs. Certification: A Deep Dive

    09:07 The Role of Temporary Positions in Career Growth

    11:55 Navigating Career Transitions and Opportunities


    We hope you enjoyed this deep dive on this topic - Certifications: Necessary or Not. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠


    Disclaimer: Thoughts, opinions, and statements made on this podcast are not a reflection of the thoughts, opinions, and statements of the Company by which 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.

    Show more Show less
    22 mins
  • 230. Strategies for Thriving in Dysfunctional Environments feat. Eric Charran
    Jun 3 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode, Traci Chernoff interviews Eric Charran about his book 'Have You Ever Had a Boss That Succeeded in a Dysfunctional Workplace'. They discuss the impact of toxic leadership on employee well-being and productivity, the archetypes of dysfunctional managers, and practical strategies for navigating these challenges. Eric shares personal experiences that inspired his book and emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing unhelpful managerial behaviors to foster a healthier workplace culture.


    In this conversation, Traci Chernoff and Eric Charran delve into the complexities of workplace dynamics, focusing on emotional responses, the importance of managing up, and the necessity of empathy in leadership. They discuss various archetypes of managers, particularly the 'surprised' archetype, and how these behaviors impact team dynamics.


    The conversation emphasizes the importance of building trust, understanding emotional reactions, and developing coping strategies to navigate workplace challenges effectively. Eric shares insights from his book, encouraging listeners to empower themselves and recognize their worth in professional settings.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Dysfunctional Workplaces

    02:59 The Genesis of the Book

    05:53 Understanding Manager Archetypes

    09:00 The Impact of Toxic Leadership

    01:53 Breaking the Cycle of Dysfunction

    14:55 Exploring Manager Archetypes

    17:46 The Emergency Broadcaster Archetype

    21:54 Coping with Chaos: Understanding Emotional Responses

    24:13 Managing Up: The Art of Diplomacy

    28:43 Building Trust: The Importance of Empathy

    31:47 The Surprised Archetype: Navigating Unexpected Challenges

    36:51 Empowerment Through Understanding: Knowing Your Worth


    We hope you enjoyed this episode with Eric Charran. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    About Our Guest:

    Eric Charran is a visionary data and AI executive with over 25 years of experience transforming global organizations through innovative data strategies, AI/ML solutions, and scalable enterprise platforms.


    He has led the design of next-generation data ecosystems—including lakehouse, mesh, and fabric architectures—driving $250M+ in revenue, reducing time-to-insight by 45%, and boosting marketing ROI by 20%. His expertise spans Generative AI, traditional AI/ML, and multi-cloud strategies that have delivered $30M in annual savings while ensuring resilience and compliance.


    A recognized thought leader, Eric is passionate about ethical AI, data governance, and building cultures of innovation that align technology with business impact.


    Connect with Eric Charran here:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericcharran/


      Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠


      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.

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    43 mins
  • 229. Challenge Accepted: Confronting the Anti-DEI Argument feat. Yolanda Slan
    May 27 2025
    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.In this conversation, Traci Chernoff and Yolanda Slan delve into the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I). Yolanda shares her personal journey and passion for DE&I, stemming from her experiences as a woman of color with a hidden disability. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding DE&I, the importance of understanding diversity in a global context, and the role of bias in hiring practices. Traci and Yolanda emphasize the need to view individuals as unique rather than as part of a group, clarifying the distinction between DE&I and affirmative action, and expanding the definition of DE&I to include various aspects of identity and experience. Their discussion explores the difference between equity and equality, using relatable analogies to illustrate their points. They also stress on the importance of advocating for oneself while also recognizing the meritocracy in hiring practices. This topic challenges the misconceptions surrounding DE&I initiatives and highlights the need for organizations to focus on genuine inclusivity rather than superficial quotas. Their dialogue is filled with humor and insight, making this episode both informative and enjoyable that you wouldn’t want to miss it. Chapters00:00 Introduction to DE&I and Yolanda's Background02:20 Personal Journey and Passion for DE&I04:48 Understanding Diversity in Global Contexts06:44 Misconceptions About DE&I in Business10:48 The Role of Bias in DE&I12:50 Clarifying DE&I vs. Affirmative Action15:20 The Importance of Individuality in DE&I17:19 Expanding the Definition of DE&I18:27 Equity and Inclusion in Practice26:11 Finding the Right Image for DEI Conversations27:39 Understanding Equity vs. Equality30:00 Different Modes of Transportation: The Equity Analogy32:30 Mind Your Business: Advocating for Yourself34:51 Meritocracy in the Workplace37:50 Challenging DEI Practices for ImprovementWe hope you enjoyed this episode with Yolanda Slan. If 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! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.About Our Guest: Yolanda Slan is Televerde’s Chief People Officer. She is an experienced human resources and employment leader with a record of success building and enhancing HR programs in both the private and non-profit sectors. She is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and she has a deep understanding of talent management strategies which has enabled her to create a positive impact in all of her past positions.Connect with Yolanda Slan here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/televerde?goback=%2Ecps_1237136210503_1 Twitter: https://twitter.com/televerde Blog: http://www.televerde.com/blog/ Website: http://www.televerde.com/ 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.
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    38 mins
  • 228. Policy Pulse: Navigating HR Policies in a Changing Political Landscape feat. Bryan Driscoll
    May 20 2025

    Go to https://cozyearth.com and use code HUMANHR for 40% off their best-selling sheets, pajamas, towels, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey? Let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.


    In this episode of the Bringing the Human Back to Human Resources podcast, Traci Chernoff and Bryan Driscoll discuss recent updates in HR policies, focusing on independent contractor enforcement, employee classification, and the implications of automation and AI on the workforce.


    They explore the political fluctuations affecting HR regulations, the importance of understanding state laws, and the risks associated with misclassification. The conversation also highlights a recent SHRM data brief on automation displacement, emphasizing the need for upskilling and the potential biases in AI hiring practices.


    The episode concludes with a discussion on the legal responsibilities of employers in accommodating candidates and the necessity of regular audits of hiring tools.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Policy Pulse and Independent Contractor Enforcement

    03:01 Understanding Employee Classification and Political Whiplash

    05:49 Private Lawsuits and State Laws on Misclassification

    09:13 Recommendations for HR on Classification and Compliance

    12:07 SHRM Data Brief on Automation Displacement

    14:55 Implications of Automation on Workforce and Upskilling

    17:56 AI Bias and Discrimination in Hiring Practices

    20:54 Legal Responsibilities and Accommodations in Hiring

    24:00 Conclusion and Future Insights on Employment Law


    Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe! Plus, leave a comment if you're catching this episode on Spotify or YouTube.


    We hope you enjoyed this month’s Policy Pulse episode. If 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!


    Connect with Traci here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/HRTraci⁠

    Connect with Bryan:

    • Website: https://bryanjdriscoll.com/

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanjohndriscoll/


    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.

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    32 mins