HR Stew

Hosted by HR Stew

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Episodes

Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

HR Stew is the show where HR professionals discuss controversial hot topics, tell stories, and cope with the madness that is being an HR professional. With a combined 35 years of HR experience, hosts Regina and Holly bring a candid take on HR and the transformation of the industry. HR Stew is presented by Vida HR.

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40 recent

May 25, 202620 min

Transparency = Chaos?

Employees want transparency and leaders want trust. But somewhere between open communication and complete oversharing, things can get messy fast.In this episode of HR Stew, hosts Regina and Holly tackle one of the most complicated balancing acts in leadership and HR: workplace transparency. How much should employees really know about layoffs, company finances, leadership disagreements, promotions, and salary decisions? And when does transparency stop building trust and start creating panic?The conversation explores how employee expectations have changed over the years, why modern workplaces demand more openness, how social media and instant communication have reshaped workplace culture, & more!

April 27, 202628 min

Toxic High Performers

They close the biggest deals, hit every target, and look like a dream on paper. But behind the scenes, they may be creating tension, damaging morale, and pushing others out the door. In this episode of HR Stew, Regina and Holly take on the complicated reality of toxic high performers and the uncomfortable question many organizations eventually face: how much bad behavior is too much when someone delivers results?The conversation digs into what really happens when companies prioritize performance over people, and how that decision quietly impacts culture, retention, and trust across a team. If you’ve ever worked with someone who delivers results but leaves a trail of frustration behind them, this episode will feel all too familiar. Because in the end, culture isn’t built by your top performer, it’s built by what you choose to tolerate.

March 31, 202623 min

The Employee Is NOT Always Right

For years, workplace conversations have focused on protecting employees (and for good reason). But what happens when the employee is actually in the wrong?In this episode of HR Stew, Regina and Holly tackle one of the most uncomfortable topics in HR: accountability. From the rise of workplace complaints and policy loopholes to managers who are afraid to discipline and employees who confuse discomfort with unfairness, we’re talking about the tension many workplaces are facing right now.

February 27, 202630 min

Job Offers & Pay Negotiations

You nailed the interview… so why is the offer taking forever? And what really happens behind the scenes before that offer letter hits your inbox?In this episode of HR Stew, Regina break down the job offer process from the HR side, from internal approvals and compensation alignment to background checks, budget changes, and the dreaded last-minute rescinded offer. They share real stories of offers falling apart, negotiation gone wrong, candidates ghosting after signing, and why counteroffers rarely fix the real problem.Whether you’re hiring or job hunting, this episode gives you an honest look at the awkward, messy, and very human side of job offers.Because how you handle the offer says a lot about how you’ll handle the job.This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and is not to be used as legal advice.

January 26, 202625 min

Workplace Romance, Nepotism, & Friends

In this episode of HR Stew, host Holly and Regina discuss one of the most complicated parts of workplace culture: relationships. From best friend coworkers to hired family members and even workplace romances, the team explores when personal connections can be a strength and when they risk crossing the line into favoritism, drama, or even full-blown nepotism.If you've ever wondered how to navigate workplace relationships while keeping your culture fair, transparent, and drama-free, this episode is for you.

December 29, 202521 min

2025 in Review

From AI acceleration to sweeping legal shifts and deeply personal journeys, 2025 was a year that changed everything. In this episode of HR Stew, hosts Regina and Holly reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons of the past year in both business and life.Dive into: The biggest workplace wins (and cringes) involving AI, policy shake-ups and what they mean for 2026, & A candid discussion on boundaries, burnout, and redefining productivity.Join us for an honest and insightful wrap-up of a transformative year, with laughs, vulnerability, and a look ahead at what’s next in HR and beyond.

November 24, 202521 min

A Culture of Thanks & Gratitude

As the season of thanks rolls in, HR Stew is serving up a full plate of appreciation, and yes, a few awkward moments too. In this episode, Regina and Holly explore the many flavors of workplace thanks, from micro-appreciations in hybrid teams to public shout-outs and cold, hard cash.What makes gratitude meaningful vs. what makes it fall flat? When does a bonus boost morale, and when does it feel like a bribe? And is it ever okay for a manager’s spouse to call in about a write-up? Whether you're a Chief Pickle, a PTO enthusiast, or someone who just wants to feel seen, this episode digs into the power of authentic recognition and how it shapes company culture.

October 27, 202527 min

Empathy - The Double Edged Sword

Empathy is essential in the workplace, but what happens when it’s taken too far? In this episode, we unpack the dual nature of empathy in HR and leadership. From the power of emotional intelligence to the risk of burnout, favoritism, and blurred boundaries, we explore how good intentions can go sideways without the right balance. Join Holly and Regina as they share real-world stories, ask tough questions, and discuss how to lead with heart and clarity.

September 29, 202530 min

Working Parents & Back-to-School

The school year is back in full swing, and so are the challenges that come with balancing work and parenting. In this episode, we unpack the realities of being a working parent, from drop-offs and daycare dilemmas to the emotional balancing act many caregivers face.Whether you’re a parent, a manager, or just someone who works alongside caregivers, this episode offers insight, perspective, and some much-needed validation.

August 29, 202526 min

HR's unspoken PTO rules...

In this sun-soaked episode of HR Stew, we're diving into the not-so-relaxing side of time off. From envy-inducing PTO emails to mysterious “working remotely” situations, we explore how vacation time becomes a workplace minefield. Join us as we unpack quiet vacationing, chaotic scheduling, unlimited PTO myths, and some unforgettable out-of-office disasters.