Practitioners Corner

Hosted by WRKdefined

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Apr 2026

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Unlock the world of work with 'Practitioners Corner'! Delve into practitioners' triumphs, setbacks, and late-night musings. Join us for a captivating exploration of professional journeys." Proudly brought to you by WRKdefined with hosts William Tincup and Ryan Leary.

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30 recent

April 23, 202646 min

Say Yes or Stay Average: The Career Advice By CHRO Jessica Kozak That Actually Works

From pulling weapons at Six Flags to scaling a global HR org, this is what happens when you chase people, not titles. Most careers don’t break. They drift. Jessica Kozak didn’t drift. She pivoted fast, learned what she hated early, and kept saying yes when it counted. From high-volume recruiting chaos to enterprise HR strategy, this is about ownership, risk, and building real leverage through people, not process. In this episode, you get the unfiltered path from security guard to CHRO, what high-turnover environments actually teach you, why “say yes” beats perfect planning, and how networks quietly run your career whether you admit it or not. Key Takeaways: Jessica started in criminal justice and pivoted after realizing she hated enforcement work High-volume recruiting means constant churn. Casino dealers sometimes leave in weeks Early career lesson: figure out what you don’t want fast She spent ~8 years in recruiting before moving into HR leadership “Say yes” unlocked multiple promotions and stretch roles Booz Allen rotated roles every ~18 months to force growth Hybrid HR + recruiting roles create stronger business alignment COVID response included building a 24/7 grocery support system for seniors Headquarters exposure accelerates access to executives and decision-making Networks compound. Burn one bridge, it follows you for years Career growth came from discomfort, not planning Guest : Jessica Kozak | CHRO, Apex Analytics LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakozak Builds and scales HR orgs across enterprise environments. Known for turning chaos into structure without losing the human side. Connect with Us : William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ WRKdefined Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

December 20, 202440 min

From FBI Dreams to HR Excellence: Mariah Hantis on Global Payroll, Compliance, and Career Growth at Deel

Global payroll isn’t just cutting checks—it’s a minefield of compliance, cultural nuances, and ever-changing regulations. Mariah Hantis, Senior Director of Global People Operations at Deel, unpacks her journey from aspiring FBI agent to HR leader. From payroll anxiety to AI-driven solutions, she shares the realities of managing 5,000 employees across 110 countries. In this episode, we look at HR, global payroll, compliance, people operations, payroll management, employee benefits, onboarding, international HR, career path, workforce management, payroll processing, open enrollment, insurance communication, AI in payroll, career development, HR challenges, and workplace culture. Key Takeaways Managing global payroll for 5,000 employees across 110 countries requires compliance expertise and local knowledge. US payroll is uniquely challenging due to intricate state-level regulations. Expanding into new countries demands thorough compliance research to avoid risks. California’s HR regulations stand out as particularly complex. Mariah’s teaching background enhances her HR approach, focusing on diverse learning styles. AI tools streamline payroll processes but still require human oversight. Communication during open enrollment is critical for employee engagement and understanding. Insurance complexities highlight the need for transparent, effective benefits communication. Payroll accuracy is non-negotiable—mistakes erode trust and create significant issues. Career paths in HR can be non-linear; Mariah transitioned from education to B2B marketing and payroll. Employee needs and cultural nuances shape benefits and workplace strategies. Future HR innovation will hinge on adapting to AI and evolving global workplace trends. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Practitioner Corner Podcast 05:57 Understanding Global Payroll vs. Domestic Payroll 12:01 The Journey into HR: Mariah's Career Path 18:05 Transitioning from Education to B2B Marketing 24:52 Navigating Payroll Challenges and Human Errors 30:03 The Complexity of Insurance and Employee Communication 35:40 Career Reflections and Future Aspirations This episode features Mariah Hantis, Sr. Director, Global Operations, Payroll, and Benefits @ Deel. You can connect with Mariah here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhantis/ Learn more about Deel, a Global People Platform that simplifies the way you onboard, offboard, and everything else in between. Connect with WRKdefined on Your Favorite Social Network William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

November 27, 202445 min

A Chief People Officer’s Guide to Career Progression, Talent Strategies, and Mentorship

Jill Larsen, Chief People Officer at Synopsys, shares her inspiring career journey from Division I athlete to HR leadership, emphasizing the power of mentorship, self-awareness, and building innovative talent strategies. She dives into navigating family and executive roles, the evolving workforce, and how technology and AI are reshaping talent acquisition. In this episode, we look at Jill’s approach to recruiting, leadership, workforce planning, change management, problem-solving, and skills development. Her insights highlight the importance of mentorship, career progression, and adapting to a tech-driven HR landscape, with practical advice for professionals at every stage of their journey. Key Takeaways Strong support systems are critical for navigating executive roles. Balancing career and family requires understanding trade-offs and priorities. Diverse perspectives drive innovation and better problem-solving. Technology and AI are revolutionizing talent acquisition and workforce planning. Self-awareness and continuous learning are vital for professional growth. Jill’s innovative strategies address inefficiencies and repurpose skills. Mentorship and networking play key roles in career advancement, especially for women. Recruiting expertise enhances hiring practices and builds stronger teams. Early-career voices bring fresh perspectives to leadership discussions. Effective communication strengthens relationships, especially during crises. Taking risks can open unexpected opportunities for growth. Companies must adapt to a changing job market by embracing workforce transformation. Chapters 00:00 Who is Jill Larsen 05:55 The Importance of Support Systems 11:54 From Sports to Career: Jill's Early Aspirations 18:03 Problem Solving and Diverse Perspectives 23:09 Career Progression and Transformational Change 30:06 Navigating Workforce Planning and Skills Development 35:43 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking 41:04 Advice for the Younger Generation Connect with Jill Larsen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-larsen-hrexec/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network: The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

November 13, 202444 min

Transforming HR from the Inside Out: Neil Lenane’s Journey at Progressive

Neil Lenane walks us through a remarkable 37-year career, from managing claims to shaping HR strategy at Progressive Insurance. In his journey, he emphasizes influence, adaptability, and empathy as essential skills for creating a unified employee experience. Neil’s insights into offboarding, technology in HR, and career resilience redefine what it means to build intentional employee and customer experiences. In this episode, we look at career paths, talent acquisition, HR challenges, Progressive Insurance, employee experience, growth mindset, claims management, talent management, offboarding, recruitment, customer experience, technology in HR, and the art of influence and adaptability in HR. Key Takeaways: Neil's career showcases a 37-year journey from claims to HR at Progressive. Influence and credibility are core skills for success in HR. Employee experience is integrated with customer care principles at Progressive. A growth mindset and adaptability are emphasized in career development. Offboarding with respect is crucial for a strong company culture. Technology in HR can be transformative but must be balanced with empathy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neil Lenane's Career Journey 02:08 From College to Claims: The Unexpected Path 10:11 Growth and Learning in Claims Management 12:47 Transitioning to Progressive: Embracing Growth Mindset 16:10 Finding Purpose: The Shift to HR 18:15 Navigating the HR Journey at Progressive 20:39 Navigating Career Paths in HR 22:32 Building Employee Experience from the Ground Up 24:50 The Pillars of Employee Experience 26:07 Integrating Customer Experience into Employee Experience 28:02 The Importance of Offboarding 30:03 Transitioning to Talent Management 32:19 Challenges in Talent Management 34:50 Unexpected Realities of Recruiting 37:40 The Role of Technology in Recruitment 38:09 Future Aspirations in HR 40:58 Advice for the Younger Self Connect with Neil Lenane here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillenane/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 25, 202425 min

AI in Learning: How Technology is Shaping the Future of Employee Development Cornerstone Connect Live

Craig Lutz, Director of Learning and Development at Gannett, explores the future of learning and development, emphasizing the transformative power of digital tools and AI. He highlights the shift from traditional classroom training to personalized, technology-driven learning strategies, underscoring the need for organizations to foster curiosity and adaptability among employees. In this episode, we look at Learning and Development, Technology in Learning, AI in Education, Upskilling, Personalized Learning, Change Management, and Employee Development. Discover how to create effective learning strategies that align with the evolving demands of the future of work. Key Takeaways: Technology and AI are revolutionizing Learning and Development, creating more dynamic and effective learning experiences. The transition from traditional training methods to digital learning requires strategic change management and adaptability. Upskilling and reskilling are essential as organizations prepare for the evolving future of work. Personalized learning enhances employee engagement and development, addressing individual needs and goals. Curiosity and agility are critical traits for navigating the changing landscape of work and skills development. Organizations must adopt flexible learning strategies to meet the demands of a rapidly changing workforce. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Learning and Development 03:01 The Evolution of Learning Approaches 05:53 Navigating Change in Learning Environments 08:49 The Role of Technology in Learning 11:54 Embracing AI and Upskilling 15:02 Fostering Curiosity and Agility in Learning 17:48 Understanding Learner Needs 21:09 Creating Personalized Learning Experiences Connect with Craig Lutz here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craiglutz/ Get your free copy of Workforce Agility for Dummies here: https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com/resources/article/Workforce-Agility-For-Dummies-Cornerstone-Special-Edition/ Learn more about Cornerstone here: https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 18, 202445 min

Navigating Cultural Insights in HR: Gabrielle Caron's Journey from Summer Camp to VP at 1Password

Gabrielle’s career journey highlights the balance between confidence and humility as she oversees multiple HR functions at 1Password. From cultural insights and the power of coffee to navigating remote work security, Gabrielle reflects on leadership development, parental support, and the critical role of asking questions in team success. In this episode, we look at cultural insights, HR, leadership, career journey, security, remote work, and parental support to understand the dynamics of Gabrielle’s professional growth and the evolving landscape of hiring in today’s remote-first world. Key Takeaways: Cultural insights shape HR strategies, influencing leadership approaches. Coffee serves as both a routine and a personal energizer, impacting workplace dynamics. Security concerns, especially in remote hiring, are growing in significance for HR professionals. Leadership involves asking the right questions to empower teams and encourage problem-solving. Parental support can play a pivotal role in shaping career trajectories and professional decisions. Balancing confidence and humility is critical for long-term career growth and leadership success. Chapters 00:00 Cultural Insights and Language Barriers 02:59 The Role of Coffee in Daily Life 05:51 Introduction to Gabrielle and Her Role 09:05 Navigating Multiple Responsibilities in HR 12:05 Gabrielle's Journey to 1Password 15:01 Leadership Development Through Experience 17:56 The Transition from Camp to Corporate 20:59 The Importance of Parental Support 24:08 Using Questions to Guide Others 26:55 Career Progression at McKinsey 30:00 The Balance of Confidence and Humility 33:03 Leaving McKinsey for Industry 35:47 Hiring Strategies in a Growing Company 38:56 Addressing Security Concerns in Remote Hiring 42:04 Advice for the Younger Self Connect with Gabrielle Caron, VP of Talent, DEIB & People Insights, here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-caron-5607ab13/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 11, 202443 min

The Power of Communication: Enhancing the Hiring Process at Ford Motor Company

Melissa Thompson, Head of Global TA at Ford Motor Company, shares her no-nonsense approach to improving the hiring process. From coaching hiring managers on interviewing to aligning decisions with business strategy, she gives actionable insights to reshape your talent acquisition process and boost team collaboration. In this episode, we look at Melissa Thompson, Ford Motor Company, hiring process, communication, feedback, recruiters, hiring managers, and business strategy to provide a roadmap for HR leaders looking to align recruitment practices with business goals while elevating interview standards across the board. Key Takeaways: Clear communication between recruiters and hiring managers is essential for effective hiring. Specific feedback from hiring managers ensures better candidate alignment with role requirements. Training hiring managers on interviewing techniques significantly boosts the quality of hires. Aligning hiring decisions with business strategy is critical for long-term success. Fostering a collaborative environment in talent acquisition leads to more impactful results. Succession planning and promotion from within builds future leadership and organizational stability. Chapters 00:00 Who is Melissa Thompson? 03:20 Transition from Technical to Automotive Industry 06:25 Differentiating Automotive Industry as a Technology Company 09:43 Implementing Different ATSs by Region 13:04 Managing High Volume of Applicants at Ford 16:22 Transition from Retail to HR 19:43 Working with Atlas Systems and Travelers Express 23:31 The Importance of Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback 24:30 Treating People with Respect and Creating a Supportive Environment 25:55 Promoting from Within and Addressing Succession Planning 26:53 Teaching Hiring Managers Effective Interviewing Techniques 28:17 Improving Hiring Manager Engagement and Feedback 29:37 The Importance of Specific Feedback in Art and Hiring 31:30 Creating a Collaborative and Supportive Environment in TA 32:57 Identifying Future Leaders and Succession Planning 34:44 Addressing Hiring Manager Behavior and Feedback 36:37 Leveraging a Recruiting Process Model and Training Hiring Managers 38:03 Encouraging Specific Feedback and Avoiding Biases in Hiring 39:25 The Importance of Clear Communication and Feedback in Hiring 40:22 Closing Remarks Connect with Melissa Thompson here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcthompson1/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 4, 202449 min

The People-First Approach at Southwest Airlines: Building Relationships in Talent Acquisition

In this episode, we look at Southwest Airlines, talent acquisition, company culture, candidate experience, internships, career guidance, and employee engagement. Greg Muccio highlights the importance of a people-first strategy, innovative ideas from employees, and creating awareness for career opportunities that ensure staffing success. Key Takeaways: Southwest Airlines prioritizes a people-first approach to talent acquisition, focusing on company culture and values. Innovative ideas often come from frontline employees, fostering a collaborative work environment. Building relationships is critical in recruitment, not just filling positions. Southwest’s talent acquisition operates like a full-service staffing agency, offering a seamless candidate experience. Creating career awareness for young students helps bridge the opportunity gap. The business imperative at Southwest Airlines ensures talent acquisition meets both present and future staffing needs. Connect with Greg Muccio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-muccio/ Sponsored by the great people behind Pillar Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 21, 202444 min

Carina Cortez on Transforming Your HR Career: From Entry-Level to Strategic Leadership

Carina Cortez, Chief People Officer at Cornerstone On Demand, shares her HR career journey from an entry-level role at Visa to leading strategic initiatives at PayPal. Mentorship, continuous learning, and passion drive her success. Cortez emphasizes the importance of HR business partners focusing on strategic initiatives and creating positive employee experiences. In this episode: We look at the HR landscape, focusing on Carina Cortez, Chief People Officer, HR business partners, strategic management, employee experience, and internal mobility. Tune in for insights that can shape your career and transform your approach to HR. Key Takeaways: Mentorship thrives when it’s organic, with mentors who challenge and encourage growth. Practical experience and continuous learning are crucial for HR professionals, especially in compliance and strategic management. HR has evolved from personnel departments to strategic roles focused on managing knowledge workers. Discovering your passion within HR is vital; exploring various roles can help identify your strengths. HR business partners must prioritize strategic initiatives over routine tasks to drive organizational success. Internal mobility and taking calculated risks are key to professional and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:57 The Value of Mentorship and Continuous Learning in HR 05:54 The Shift from Personnel Departments to Strategic HR 09:00 Exploring Different Areas within HR to Find Your Passion 17:26 Carina's Entry-Level Role at Visa 20:20 The Role of HR Business Partners 23:33 HR's Focus on Providing Value 25:21 Increasing Engagement through Internal Mobility 30:55 The Importance of Taking Risks in Your Career Connect with Carina on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carinacortez/ Learn more about Cornerstone here: https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 31, 202447 min

Unveiling the Journey: Rachel Dalboth’s 25 Years in Talent Acquisition

We talk with Rachel Dalboth from The Talent Labs. Rachel shares her 25-year journey in talent acquisition, discussing her experiences at Nokia, Unilever, and now leading TA excellence at The Talent Labs. In this episode, we look at the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, remote work strategies, HR tech innovations, talent management, rebranding efforts, and career growth. Rachel dishes on practical advice for HR professionals navigating the complexities of today's recruitment world. Key Takeaways Rachel Dalboth's journey from Nokia to The Talent Labs. Strategies for managing fully remote teams effectively. The importance of rebranding and connecting talent management, development, and acquisition. Tips on building a long-term career in a single organization. Insights into the future of talent acquisition and HR tech innovations. Practical advice for creating a positive and engaging work culture. Connect with Rachael here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-dalboth-1a92423/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices