The HR Lady, Podcast

EEOC News: The Legal Pitfalls of DEI Programs -What Employers Need to Know

Wendy Sellers discusses the latest clarifications from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on the legal boundaries surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. As affirmative action ends in early 2025, Wendy elaborates on how to ensure DEI initiatives remain compliant with federal law. Discover the differences between legal and illegal DEI practices, such as making employment decisions based on race or sex, and setting quotas or exclusive programs.
The episode also features insights from Andrea Lucas, acting chair of the EEOC, on 11 ways to diversify workforces without engaging in unlawful discrimination. From adjusting job descriptions and standardizing interviews to auditing privilege and recruiting inclusively, these methods aim to foster equality without breaching Title VII.
Additionally, explore the EEOC's new publications aimed at addressing DEI-related discrimination in the workplace, defining what constitutes unlawful actions, and guiding both employers and employees on how to handle discrimination cases. Stay legally compliant and promote genuine inclusivity in your organization by tuning into this crucial discussion.
 
A few resources: 
EEOC NEW Publication #1 - March 19, 2025
https://www.eeoc.gov/wysk/what-you-should-know-about-dei-related-discrimination-work
EEOC NEW Publication #2 - March 19, 2025
https://www.eeoc.gov/what-do-if-you-experience-discrimination-related-dei-work
This was the podcast interview with Andrea Lucas in June 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8j1q-paDkQ
Also, on March 17, 2025, there was a Press Release that Andrea Lucas sent letters to 20 law firms requesting information about D E I-related employment practices.
 
https://www.eeoc.gov/newsroom/eeoc-acting-chair-andrea-lucas-sends-letters-20-law-firms-requesting-information-about-dei

Unveiling the Power of Pay Transparency with Rameez Kaleem

In this enlightening episode, Wendy Sellers, The HR Lady, engages with Rameez Kaleem,, Founder and CEO of 3R Strategy, to delve into the significance of pay transparency in shaping organizational culture.
Rameez shares his extensive experience in the field of rewards and highlights the critical need for clear communication around pay practices. The discussion covers challenges faced by HR professionals in advocating for transparency, the benefits of aligning pay strategies with company values, and the positive impact on employee retention and business outcomes.
Explore the importance of pay transparency in attracting candidates, particularly Gen Z, and how organizations can make a case for its business value to their leadership teams.
The conversation also touches upon global trends in pay budgets and offers insights into what businesses should prioritize to stay competitive. Tune in to learn how transparent pay strategies can not only enhance trust but also reinforce a cohesive workplace culture.
Be sure to connect with Rameez on LinkedIn and submit your information to his confidential Reward Pulse Survey:  What was/is your planned pay increase % for 2025? You will get the global results shared with you!
Pay Reward Increase -Pulse Survey
https://threerstrategy.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8iihIW9EHqyAAGW?Source=HRPodcast 

Lightening the Workplace: Fun, Respect and Less-Stress!

Join hosts Wendy Sellers and JC (Jim Connors) in this engaging episode where they delve into the art of balancing humor and professionalism in the workplace. With stress levels at an all-time high, they discuss strategies to lighten the mood without crossing the line into inappropriate behavior.
Discover the secrets to workplace happiness based on recent research, understand the roles of positive emotions, engagement, and meaning, and learn how organizations can support their employees' emotional and psychological well-being with innovative programs and policies.
Filled with insights, statistics, and a touch of laughter, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their professional environment while maintaining a sense of fun.

HR & Compensation Insights from a Global Leader, John Rubino

Wendy Sellers, The HR Lady, interviews the globally experienced John Rubino, President of Rubino Consulting Services.
Having visited over 100 countries and with a rich background in HR and compensation strategy, John shares his expert insights into the intricacies of employee compensation in an evolving 2025 landscape.
Explore the complexities of taxing tipped workers and how these changes could impact different income levels. John provides strategic advice for businesses, particularly small enterprises, on implementing effective compensation strategies that truly motivate employees beyond traditional merit increases.
Learn about the essential components to consider in a robust total rewards strategy, including the balance between hard financial benefits and soft elements like culture and work-life balance. Discover why understanding metrics and creating a comprehensive approach to rewards can enhance employee retention and satisfaction.
Whether you're running a multinational corporation or a small family business, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you navigate the ever-changing world of HR and employee compensation.
 
Contact info:
John A. Rubino, President
Rubino Consulting Services
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnarubino/

Tackling Annoying Workplace Behaviors, with Wendy and JC

Welcome to this episode where Wendy and JC dive into the intricacies of workplace human dynamics. They discuss the common annoyances caused by employee behaviors and offer insights on how managers and leaders can address these issues effectively.
Wendy shares her keynote on the top five ways employees can drive managers crazy, including lack of listening, frequent mistakes, entitlement mentality, and more. The discussion emphasizes the importance of common sense, a skill that isn't innate but learned over time through practical problem-solving and clear communication.
The episode further explores how creating a culture of respect, setting clear expectations, and allowing employees to learn from their mistakes can foster a more inclusive and engaging work environment. JC adds valuable insights with statistics on workplace satisfaction and bullying, highlighting the need for organizations to address and mitigate detrimental behaviors actively.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their behaviors and team dynamics, aiming to improve workplace culture, respect, and communication.
For additional resources and training, Wendy invites everyone to visit her website, thehrlady.com, for free training options.