The Work Wire

Hosted by WRKdefined Podcast Network

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Jun 2025

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About the show

SHRM CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. and Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, host a lively conversation on how the latest news impacts all things work-related.

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53 recent

June 19, 202534 min

Psychological Safety Isn’t What You Think It Is

In this bold and unfiltered episode of The Work Wire, Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, and Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President and CEO of SHRM, dismantle the myths surrounding one of the most misused phrases in today’s workplace lexicon: psychological safety. Far from being a license for comfort or an excuse to dodge accountability, psychological safety—originally defined by Harvard’s Dr. Amy Edmondson—is about creating a culture where people can take interpersonal risks without fear of retaliation or embarrassment. But in practice, it’s been twisted into something else entirely. Bob and Johnny take on: The difference between being nice and being kind—and why the former may be a managerial cop-out. Why “transparency” is often demanded but rarely welcomed. The tension between accountability and empathy—can you really have both? The difference between skeptics and cynics, and why the former might be your culture's secret weapon. Reciprocity in psychological safety—why it must go both ways to work. Why failure is acceptable… but only when it’s well-executed. This episode is not about tiptoeing through tough conversations—it’s about how real leaders build resilient cultures where truth can be spoken, decisions can be challenged, and people can grow. Psychological safety doesn’t mean comfort. It means courage. Listen now on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-wire/id1724236534 Or on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0B2h7zqojjLQemKTVjdpTt

June 5, 202535 min

AI First, People Second? Shopify’s Hiring Revolution

In this thought-provoking episode of The Work Wire, Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, and Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President and CEO of SHRM, break down one of the most audacious talent policies in recent memory: Shopify’s new rule that no new hires will be approved unless teams can prove that AI cannot do the job. This isn't just a headline—it's a signal flare. The age of AI-first hiring has officially begun. Bob and Johnny go deep on: What this policy means for the future of work—and workers. The nuanced role of AI as a displacer, a partner, and a performance enhancer. Why CEOs are shifting from “encourage AI use” to “mandate AI proof.” How HR leaders should respond when the CEO wants to follow Shopify’s lead. Why job descriptions need to be deconstructed into tasks—and audited for automation. The uncomfortable but necessary conversation about retaining great humans vs. hiring new ones. And why CHROs must lead the charge in redefining not just jobs, but work itself. This episode challenges listeners to rethink what hiring, retention, and even competency look like in an AI-integrated workplace. And it asks the uncomfortable but urgent question: Are we really preparing people—or just protecting them? Listen now on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-wire/id1724236534 Or on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0B2h7zqojjLQemKTVjdpTt

April 18, 202531 min

Meta, Rehire Blacklists, and the Quiet Power of HR

In this episode of The Work Wire, Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, and SHRM President & CEO Johnny C. Taylor Jr. dig into a controversial practice making headlines: Meta’s “Do Not Rehire” lists—and the silent consequences they carry for careers. What happens when a top performer is quietly marked as ineligible for rehire—without explanation, without appeal, and with no way to challenge the label? Johnny and Bob unpack the complexities behind this increasingly common practice and explore: Why “Do Not Rehire” lists exist—and where they cross the line The difference between a security risk and a poor culture fit How HR professionals can challenge manager bias and escalate bad calls What candidates should do when flagged by a former employer—and how to take back the narrative Whether Meta’s reputation as an employer brand can withstand the growing pattern of culture-first exclusions This isn’t a theoretical issue. It’s real, and it’s happening at scale. Whether you're in HR, hiring leadership, or navigating your own job search—this episode brings clarity, perspective, and practical advice to one of the most ethically gray areas in the modern workplace.

April 3, 202527 min

Navigating the BullDOGE Era: AI, Tariffs, and the Future of Work - Part 2

In this insightful second part of The Work Wire podcast, hosts Bob Goodwin and Johnny C. Taylor Jr. delve deeper into the ramifications of the "BullDOGE Era," examining critical topics impacting the workforce today. From the rapid adoption and disruptive potential of AI, to the tangible effects of newly imposed tariffs, Bob and Johnny unpack what these changes mean for both employers and employees. They explore the vital need for ongoing reskilling and lifelong learning, discuss the shifting responsibilities of businesses to foster strategic human capital management, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities presented by recent shifts in diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Tune in as they provide thoughtful guidance on navigating uncertainty and emphasize the importance of personal accountability in shaping one's career amidst unprecedented change.

March 27, 202540 min

The Bulldoze Era: What Happens When Government Gets Streamlined Like a Startup?

In this eye-opening episode of *The Work Wire*, Bob Goodwin is joined by Johnny C. Taylor Jr., President & CEO of SHRM, to unpack the sweeping changes taking shape under what Bob dubs the "Bulldoze Era"—a rapid-fire effort to dismantle bureaucracy, slash federal agencies, and upend traditional policies. From the Department of Education's possible shutdown to AI-fueled layoffs and the implosion of DEI initiatives, nothing is off the table. Together, Bob and Johnny explore: What "efficiency" really means when people's livelihoods are at stake Why lifelong learning is no longer optional—it's survival The future role of HR leaders in a volatile, tech-powered workplace How businesses and workers can adapt in the face of abrupt change Whether you view these shifts as reform or reckless overreach, one thing’s clear: the future of work is being rewritten—fast. Tune in for honest analysis, bold predictions, and a call to own your career like never before.

March 8, 202534 min

Busted, Broken, and Leaky: Fixing America’s Education-to-Workforce Pipeline

In this compelling episode of The Work Wire, Bob Goodwin sits down with Johnny C. Taylor Jr., President & CEO of SHRM, to unpack his recent Congressional testimony on the state of education, workforce readiness, and untapped talent pools. Johnny shares unfiltered insights on why America’s education system is failing both students and employers, why traditional degrees aren’t always the answer, and how skills-based hiring, vocational training, and a shift in mindset can solve the growing talent crisis. They also discuss: • Why employers struggle to find job-ready candidates despite record education spending • The growing importance of trade schools and alternative career pathways • How AI and globalization are changing the future of work • The untapped potential of military veterans, differently-abled workers, and second-chance hires It’s time to rethink education, hiring, and the way we prepare people for work. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!

February 25, 202533 min

Return to Office, DEI, and Trump 2.0: What’s Next for Work?

With major executive orders and shifting workplace trends, the balance of power between employers and employees is changing fast. Bob Goodwin and Johnny C. Taylor Jr. discuss the federal return-to-office push, the future of DEI, and why companies are reevaluating how they measure employee value. Is the remote work era over? What’s next for workplace culture? Find out in this must-listen episode of The Work Wire.

February 9, 202533 min

The Work Wire - Unpacking Extreme Leadership Decisions and Their Impact

A CEO's harsh firing of 90% of his employees via Slack reveals significant issues in leadership, communication, and employee accountability. The incident serves as a poignant reminder for leaders about the importance of setting expectations, cultivating a respectful culture, and demonstrating emotional intelligence in challenging situations. • A shocking story of a CEO firing 90% of his staff • Analyzing both sides of the conflict between the CEO and employees • The implications of employee integrity in unpaid roles • The importance of emotional intelligence in leadership • Recruitment and cultural fit as preventative measures • Self-reflection and humility as essential leadership qualities • The human cost of volatility in leadership styles

January 26, 202534 min

The Work Wire - Navigating 'The Great Flattening' and Middle Management's Future

What if the hierarchical structures that have defined our workplaces are holding us back from true productivity and profitability? Join us as we explore "The Great Flattening" trend reshaping the business landscape for 2025 with Johnny C. Taylor Jr., President and CEO of SHRM. Despite record profits and soaring stock market performances, companies are reconsidering the role of middle management and contemplating workforce reductions. Together with Johnny, we unravel the historical cycles of corporate restructuring, from re-engineering to centralization, and confront the complex challenges that today's businesses face, even when traditional economic indicators suggest stability. Middle managers, often the unsung heroes of the corporate world, are more critical than ever. We dive into how these crucial players can shift perceptions and showcase their indispensable value. By aligning their roles with key performance indicators and effectively communicating their achievements, middle managers can secure their careers and climb the corporate ladder. Drawing parallels to sports teams, we discuss how removing obstacles and supporting team members can drastically enhance overall performance, making a compelling case for the essential nature of these roles in ensuring an organization's success. In our engaging conversation with Johnny, we also touch upon the broader themes of career development and HR support, emphasizing the significance of embracing new ideas and approaches. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the importance of self-assessment and staying prepared for future opportunities. As we navigate this evolving landscape, Johnny's expert insights provide a roadmap for individuals eager to thrive in their professional environments. Stay tuned for future episodes where we continue to offer valuable guidance and inspiration for building a successful career.

December 11, 202434 min

The Work Wire - Embracing Change and Resilience in Leadership

Join us for an insightful conversation with Johnny C. Taylor Jr., CEO and President of SHRM, as we uncover the essence of embracing change in a rapidly evolving world. Discover how swift advancements in technology, like AI tools such as ChatGPT, demand that we adapt or risk obsolescence. We'll explore how embracing change transforms potential stress into powerful advantages, propelling us into the future with confidence.Inspired by a riveting keynote at SHRM 24 in Chicago, we discuss the metaphor of buffaloes versus cows in tackling adversity. Much like buffaloes charging into storms, purposeful leadership is about confronting challenges head-on and steering teams through turbulent times. With insights from Seth Godin's "The Dip," we highlight the power of resilience and purpose, motivating people to push beyond the initial highs of a new journey through the inevitable dips that follow.Our episode also navigates the complexities of skepticism in change management, distinguishing between skeptics and cynics. We highlight the value of diverse perspectives in enhancing decision-making and fostering inclusive environments. Through personal stories, we emphasize the importance of commitment and genuine feedback, building trust, and resilience during change and uncertainty. Join us as we explore the art of effective communication in leadership, ensuring everyone's voice is heard and valued.