The ASHHRA Podcast is the ultimate resource for HR Leaders. Featuring weekly episodes with top healthcare professionals from around the country, Co-hosts Bo Brabo & Luke Carignan from The Bo & Luke Show bring you the latest insights and trends in the world of human resources. Whether you're looking to stay up to date on the latest news and legislation or gain valuable insights into building a better workplace, The ASHHRA Podcast has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and join Bo and Luke every week for fresh episodes as they explore everything Healthcare HR!

We're excited to bring you highlights from this week's “Monday News Drop” episode of The ASHHRA Podcast! Co-hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo were back in the studio to tackle two of the hottest topics shaping healthcare HR today: a shakeup in leadership expectations and the non-stop momentum of AI.Episode Highlights1. No One Wants to Lead! Luke and Bo dove into an eye-opening article on “Conscious Unbossing” – a rising Gen Z trend where employees are opting out of formal leadership roles in favor of deepening subject matter expertise. The big takeaway? People want career growth options that DON'T require managing others!Key discussion points:Rethinking career pathing beyond the “leadership ladder”Lending respect and recognition to subject matter experts (SMEs), even when they choose not to manage peopleBuilding parallel career tracks, lateral moves, and project-based recognition for non-managerial talentHumility in the workplace: Valuing leaders AND non-leader contributors2. AI Isn't the Future—It's the Present Every HR article (and podcast!) these days is talking about AI. Bo and Luke stressed the urgency around not just learning about AI, but also actively implementing and adapting to it—especially agentic AI in HR functions like talent acquisition.Organizations that delay AI adoption risk falling dangerously behind the competition—think “flip phone vs. iPhone.”AI is shifting HR from transactional work to strategic ‘people architect' roles—are you ready to evolve?HR positions won't disappear, but tasks ARE changing: repurposing roles, reskilling teams, and continuously learning is the name of the game.Don't be afraid to learn! Even if you're near retirement, find your AI enthusiast successor and help them lead the charge.3. Trending Topic: Staff Well-Being & the Power of the SME Bo and Luke touched on staff well-being—mental health, burnout prevention, and flexible scheduling—as top priorities for healthcare HR, emphasizing that SMEs in these areas can lead important change without managing teams.Fun FavoritesRedefining generational names (RIP, “Generation PT Cruiser”!).The coming age of affordable AI-powered robots—the Jetsons' future is closer than you think.What's Next? ASHHRA's Annual Conference is coming to Savannah on May 17-19, 2026! Check the show notes or ASHHRA website for more info, and join us LIVE on the podcast at the event.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this engaging solo-hosted episode (Bo's out traveling!), Luke Carignan chats with Erica Samalis, Director of HR Business Partners at Tufts Medicine. Erica shares her pivot from pre-med to HR via business school, her 12 years at Children's National in DC, and her return to New England roots. Amid talent shortages and industry shifts, she discusses elevating HRBPs to strategic roles, workforce development, AI's potential, and fostering engagement in a changing healthcare landscape.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:HRBP Evolution: Shift from transactional ER to strategic advising—build trust through rounding and proactive support.Workforce Planning: Focus on succession, internal mobility, and new business lines; partner with operations for talent pipelines.Talent Shortages: Address nursing/tech gaps with education investments, global sourcing, and retention strategies—emphasize culture over perks.AI in HR: Use for efficiency (e.g., chatbots, screening) but preserve human elements; frees time for high-impact work like development.Employee Engagement: Leverage surveys, DEI, and perks (e.g., pet insurance, tuition); prioritize mental health and flexibility.Industry Insights: Innovate amid change—share ideas via networks like ASHHRA for collaborative solutions.A must-listen for HR driving strategic impact in healthcare. Erica's journey inspires adaptability!Join ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah! Register here.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this lively episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo welcome Michelle Nicholl, CHRO in Las Vegas, NV. With a diverse career spanning call centers, hospitality, banking, and 15 years in healthcare, Michelle shares her unscripted journey—from building and dismantling an HR department during an FDIC closure to tackling talent shortages in Vegas' competitive market. Amid casino perks and nursing gaps, she discusses innovative strategies for recruitment, retention, and employee well-being.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Talent Competition in Vegas: Battle hospitality giants with flexible benefits like pet insurance and tuition assistance; leverage internal mobility and education partnerships to fill gaps.Nursing Shortages: Address 30-40 open RN roles with targeted sourcing, traveler conversions, and residency programs—focus on retention to combat burnout.Employee Engagement: Implement rounding, "lunch and learns," and DEI initiatives; prioritize mental health and work-life balance to boost morale.AI & Tech in HR: Use AI for efficiency (e.g., chatbots, screening) but maintain human touch; explore tools like Workday for streamlined operations.Diverse Backgrounds: Bring non-healthcare experience for fresh perspectives—adapt hospitality's customer service focus to patient care.Personal Touch: Foster trust through visibility and empathy; celebrate wins with events and perks to build a supportive culture.A must-listen for HR navigating competitive landscapes and shortages. Michelle's real-world wisdom inspires resilience!Join ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah! Register here.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this dynamic episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo chat with Suzanne Kercher-Liedke, Director of Talent Acquisition at Hoag Health System in Orange County, CA. From her unexpected start in recruiting (post-agricultural business major) to scaling Hoag from 2,700 to 10,000 employees, Suzanne shares her 22-year journey and forward-thinking approaches to talent challenges amid shortages and competition.Explore Hoag's evolution into a fully integrated system, emphasizing candidate experience, recruiter empowerment, and bold ideas like "night owl" recruiting shifts to engage passive talent after hours.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Flexible Recruiting Shifts: Pilot non-traditional hours (e.g., noon-8pm) to boost productivity and work-life balance… ideal for night owls or family schedules.Candidate Experience Focus: Prioritize empathy, transparency, and quick feedback; treat applicants like VIPs to stand out in competitive markets.Recruiter Development: Invest in training, branding, and AI tools; empower teams with autonomy to innovate and reduce turnover.Addressing Shortages: Tackle nursing gaps with targeted sourcing, partnerships, and internal mobility… adapt to Gen Z's values for authenticity and growth.AI & Branding: Use AI for efficiency (e.g., chatbots, screening) while maintaining human touch; leverage employer branding to attract top talent.Team Culture: Foster collaboration and fun… Suzanne's all-hands rollout of flexible shifts could spark retention wins.Inspiring for HR transforming TA in healthcare. Suzanne's open-minded vibe reminds us: Innovate boldly!Join ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah! Register here.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this week's Monday News Drop, co-host Bo Brabo is joined by Jeremy Sadlier for a deep dive into three powerful stories shaping the future of healthcare HR. From building tomorrow's workforce to protecting today's talent, this episode connects the dots between education, staffing, and leadership sustainability.

In this insightful episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo welcome Cyann Peterson, Recruiting Operations Lead at Tenet Healthcare. With a unique journey from agriculture and NASCAR roots to agency recruiting at Apex Systems, Ascension, HCA, and now Tenet, Cyann shares her evolution into TA Ops. She dives into optimizing processes, tech stacks, and team enablement in large-scale healthcare recruiting—drawing from experiences like boosting Ascension's career site to millions of applications via Google for Jobs.Cyann emphasizes curiosity, problem-solving, and bridging gaps between recruiters and leaders to drive efficiency amid talent shortages.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Path to TA Ops: Start in recruiting, show curiosity in processes—titles vary (e.g., TA Partner, Project Manager); leverage skills like SEO and tech integration for growth.Tech Stack Essentials: Use ATS (e.g., Workday) for compliance, CRM (e.g., Phenom) for personalization; integrate AI for efficiency without replacing human touch.Process Optimization: Focus on root problems—streamline requisitions, enhance candidate experience; prioritize user-friendly tools to reduce recruiter admin time.SEO & Visibility: Optimize job postings with keywords, FAQs, and schema markup; aim for Google for Jobs dominance to attract passive talent.Team Enablement: Train recruiters on tools; foster collaboration between TA Ops and leaders for scalable solutions—curiosity drives innovation.Career Advice: Network, ask questions; TA Ops offers exposure across HR/IT—ideal for process-driven pros seeking impact.A must-listen for HR transforming talent acquisition in healthcare. Cyann's practical wisdom inspires actionable change!Join us at ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah! Register here.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this energizing episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo chat with Shaina Lane, Senior Leadership Development Specialist at AccentCare. With a background in sports medicine and healthcare operations, Shaina shares her pivot to HR and her passion for building better leaders. Drawing from her book Leadership Is Easy, Said No One Ever: 11 Habits to Learn Early So You Can Lead Expertly, she tackles common pitfalls like reactive "shitty" leadership and offers actionable strategies for proactive growth.Shaina emphasizes shifting from task management to people development, especially in healthcare's high-pressure environment. From promoting technical experts without mindset training to fostering curiosity and vulnerability, her insights empower HR pros to create resilient teams amid talent shortages.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Mindset Shift: Promote experts into leadership? Train them on proactive habits like curiosity, vulnerability, and self-awareness to avoid reactive pitfalls.11 Essential Habits: Build routines for meaningful 1:1s, difficult conversations, feedback, and professional development—free guides available at shainalane.com.ROI on Development: Unskilled managers cost $126K/year in turnover and conflict; invest early to boost retention and productivity.Curiosity & Vulnerability: Encourage leaders to ask questions and admit gaps—fosters innovation and trust in fast-paced healthcare.Resources Galore: Grab Shaina's book for practical tools; pair with classics like Crucial Conversations for comprehensive growth.Self-Start Leadership: Don't wait for org-wide programs—HR can drive change with simple habits and data-backed business cases.A must-listen for HR navigating leadership challenges in healthcare. Shaina's real-talk approach inspires immediate action!Register for ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah at ashhra.org!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this captivating episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with Dr. Tali Lando, a board-certified pediatric otolaryngologist at Westchester Medical Center Health Network in New York. Dr. Lando shares her inspiring path to medicine, from volunteering in NICUs and sign language interpreting to rigorous training at Cornell, Columbia, and CHOP. Now a mother of three, she balances high-stakes surgeries with family life, offering raw insights into the demands of pediatric ENT surgery.Dr. Lando discusses her new book, Breathless: Surgical Tales from the Brink (and Back), blending gripping stories of life-saving procedures, like removing a button battery from a child's esophagus, with personal reflections on burnout, motherhood, and resilience. From COVID challenges to the joy of hard work, her experiences highlight the human side of healthcare, reminding HR leaders of the dedication behind clinical roles.Key takeaways for healthcare HR professionals:Path to Passion: Early volunteering sparked Dr. Lando's career; encouraging similar opportunities to inspire future clinicians amid talent shortages.Work-Life Balance: As a surgeon-mom, she stresses self-care, boundaries, and finding joy in the process… lessons for supporting overworked staff.Surgical Realities: Hear about airway emergencies and the emotional toll; HR can foster empathy through cross-departmental storytelling.Dedication & Perseverance: In a fast-paced world, emphasize hard work over quick rewards to build resilient teams.Book Insights: Breathless humanizes medicine; use it for team discussions on compassion and innovation.Fun Tip: Lululemon's first-responder discounts… perfect for healthcare perks!A must-listen for HR pros supporting clinical heroes, blending inspiration with practical wisdom. Tune in for tales that bridge the gap between HR and the OR.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

Kick off your week with the inaugural "News Drop" episode of The ASHHRA Podcast! Hosts Luke Carignan, Bo Brabo, and new co-host Jeremy Sadlier (ASHHRA CEO) deliver a fresh weekly roundup of top healthcare HR headlines. From critical staffing shortages to AI's role in HR, they break down trends, stats, and implications—sparking discussions on innovative solutions for HR pros.Key headlines & insights:Staffing Shortages Escalate: Physician gap hits 124K by 2033; need 200K nurses yearly, with 450K RN deficit by 2025. Factors: Aging population, limited nursing schools, burnout (30% of nurses eyeing exits). Impact: 12% higher mortality per extra patient/nurse. Call for university partnerships and global talent pipelines.AI in HR: Boon or Bust?: 83% of HR leaders lack right tech; only 59% use analytics, 54% automation. Debate on AI reducing admin vs. risking impersonal HR—emphasize freeing staff for meaningful support.Burnout & Mental Health: 58% of employees burned out; 45% report mental health decline. Build cultures of trust and flexibility to retain talent.HR Visibility: Jeremy shares site visit stories—remote HR erodes trust; prioritize on-site presence.A must-listen for staying ahead in healthcare HR. Tune in weekly for actionable insights!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this special RxBenefits-sponsored episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan explore the dynamic pharmacy benefits landscape with experts Sarah Hearn and Wes Hill (Director of Compliance & Legal Operations). Amid the busiest legislative season yet—over 1,500 bills—they discuss PBM reforms, ERISA challenges, compounding alternatives for GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, 340B pricing, and emerging lawsuits. Gain insights on transparency, cost savings, and compliance for healthcare HR pros navigating employee benefits.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Legislative Surge: 1,500+ state bills target PBMs, carriers, and more; expect increased reporting burdens but better data for informed decisions.ERISA Erosion Risks: States challenge federal uniformity—multi-state plans face conflicting laws; monitor for compliance headaches.Positive Reforms: New mandates empower plan sponsors with PBM data; leverage 340B and coupons to cut costs (e.g., Wegovy from $1,000 to $100/month).Compounding & Innovation: Affordable GLP-1 alternatives via telehealth, but ensure safety and avoid controlled substance pitfalls.Lawsuits to Watch: Oklahoma ERISA win; Arkansas PBM permit ban challenges interstate commerce—outcomes could reshape operations.Action Steps: Demand vendor transparency; align with ERISA; educate teams on benefits to prevent misuse and optimize savings.Essential listening for HR managing rising pharmacy costs and regulations. Spark curiosity—reach out to RxBenefits for guidance!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this inspiring episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo welcome Lisa Kemph, CHRO at Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, FL. With 30 years in HR across six industries, Lisa shares her journey from logistics to healthcare, emphasizing emotional intelligence, leadership development, and building a people-first culture amid rapid organizational growth.Lisa offers timeless advice on work-life balance, including marriage tips like maintaining humor, giving grace, and ditching the "50/50" myth—lessons that echo in professional relationships. She dives into Brooks' focus on recruitment, retention, and skilling up talent through a holistic career development strategy aligned with employee needs and organizational values.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Recruitment & Retention: Keep the focus sharp; align initiatives with being an employer of choice and best-in-class HR.Leadership Development: Start with a comprehensive strategy via surveys and leader input; use a buy/build approach with blended learning (e-learning, in-person, self-directed).Emotional Intelligence: Certify and integrate EQ for self-awareness and better team dynamics—essential in high-stakes healthcare.Growth Mindset: Skill up existing talent amid shortages; revise strategies annually to fill gaps and support career seasons.Work-Life Parallels: Apply grace and 100/100 effort from personal life to leadership; break negative cycles proactively.Awards & Recognition: Celebrate teams like Learning & Development for impactful contributions.A must-listen for HR pros seeking actionable strategies on talent development, culture building, and personal growth. Lisa's insights remind us: Work the plan to advance your goals.Listen now on ASHHRA.org or Apple Podcasts. Join us at the ASHHRA Conference in Savannah, May 17-19, 2026! (register here)From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this dynamic episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo chat with Maxine Carrington, Chief People Officer, and Matt Kurth, Deputy Chief People Officer at Northwell Health. Fresh from the ASHHRA Executive Summit in Savannah, they explore how Northwell—a powerhouse with 104,000 employees, 28 hospitals, and recent mergers like Nuvance Health—navigates massive changes while fostering a bold, people-first culture.Maxine and Matt discuss leadership transitions (including CEO Michael Dowling's retirement), Epic's largest-ever EMR rollout, UKG implementation, and digital transformation. They emphasize Northwell's mission as a "movement" to raise health standards, driven by curiosity, humility, and innovation. From HR overhauls to psychological safety via book clubs on Amy Edmondson's "The Fearless Organization," they share strategies for employee engagement and whole-family well-being.Key takeaways for healthcare HR leaders:Bold Leadership & Succession: Manage executive retirements with advisory roles and knowledge transfer for seamless transitions.Cultural Innovation: Embrace "just a little unsatisfied" mindset to drive progress; learn from failures and external partners.Employee Experience Elevation: Use AI, data nudges, and family-inclusive benefits to support whole-person health and proactive care.HR Transformation: Shift priority-setting to customers; align OKRs with operations for impactful solutions.Community Impact: Extend wellness education to households; incentivize healthy actions to catch issues early.Discover how Northwell turns challenges into opportunities, inspiring HR pros to demand innovation and accountability. A must-listen for those in healthcare leadership, employee well-being, and organizational culture.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this inspiring episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo welcome Sandeep Randhawa, Chief People Officer at Renown Health in Reno, Nevada. Recorded in the dog days of summer 2025, Sandeep shares his transformative approach to creating a people-first culture at Renown, a not-for-profit health system serving a 100,000-square-mile region with 8,000 dedicated employees.Sandeep dives into Renown's deliberate people strategy, emphasizing why "people first" is more than a buzzword. Post-COVID, Renown's leadership, led by CEO Dr. Brian Erling, committed to aligning strategic initiatives with a focus on empowering employees to deliver exceptional care. From revising organizational values to include "people first" to fostering community partnerships, Sandeep reveals actionable steps for sustainable workforce development.Key insights for healthcare HR leaders:Define "People First": Renown's vision prioritizes compassion, collaboration, and valuing employees to enhance community impact.Daily Commitment: Embed people-first principles through transparent communication, mission moments, and recognition programs like "Every Day Amazing."Strategic Focus: Sandeep spends 80% of his time on forward-thinking people strategies, from workforce development to professional growth, ensuring alignment with long-term goals.Cultural Transformation: Transparent town halls and employee feedback shape a culture of trust, loyalty, and pride, even in tough financial times.Discover how Renown grew from 7,200 to 8,000 employees by prioritizing people over quick financial fixes, fostering a culture that resonates from the workplace to the community. Sandeep's insights, drawn from his extensive experience at CommonSpirit and Dignity Health, offer a roadmap for healthcare leaders navigating complex environments.Tune in for practical tips on building a resilient, engaged workforce and learn why putting people first is the key to organizational greatness. Listen now on ASHHRA.org or Apple Podcasts. Connect with Sandeep on LinkedIn for more HR wisdom!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this powerful episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo sit down live from Savannah, GA, with Alysia Price, CHRO of UNC Health Appalachian. As the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene approaches, Alysia shares her firsthand account of the devastating storm that ravaged western North Carolina, turning routine rain into catastrophic flooding, road washouts, and power outages.Discover how UNC Health Appalachian navigated volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments—far beyond typical hurricane prep. From impromptu pet policies and housing volunteers in makeshift hotels to accounting for 1,500 employees amid downed communications, Alysia reveals the chaos and resilience that defined their response. Learn about the influx of community members seeking shelter, the role of Samaritan's Purse and FEMA, and the surge in mental health needs post-disaster.Key takeaways for healthcare leaders:Emergency Preparedness Essentials: Update policies, emergency contacts, and disaster plans now—don't wait for crisis.Community and Connection: Appalachian culture shone through with volunteers, App State students, and donations topping $500K for employee relief, including 150 generators.Post-Trauma Support: Address mental health with EAP resources and support groups; processing trauma continues long after the event.Leadership Growth: Conduct after-action reviews to build stronger teams and systems.Alysia also opens up about personal lessons: the power of gratitude, human connection, and her passion for fly fishing as a mental health escape (catch-and-release only—she even talks to the fish!).Recorded at the ASHHRA Executive Summit, this episode is a must-listen for HR professionals in healthcare, emphasizing resilience in rural hospitals during natural disasters. Whether you're in emergency management, healthcare leadership, or seeking inspiration from real-world crisis response, tune in for actionable insights.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo chat with Dana Bradley, VP of Human Resources at Silver Cross Hospital. With a powerhouse background in operations and leadership at top universities like UChicago, Rush, Northwestern, and GWU, Dana reveals how an ops mindset supercharges HR strategy in healthcare.Key highlights include:Ops-First HR: The Ultimate Edge – Dana stresses starting in frontline ops shapes her "business person in an HR chair" approach, enabling bold questions at the exec table. Thought-provoking: Is your HR team operations-literate enough to drive strategic decisions?Challenging Norms for Growth – From pushing back on inventory tags to board "games" for prep, Dana shares how respectful challenges build better outcomes. Plus, the power of saying "I don't know" with confidence... key for credible leadership.Talent Wars & Total Rewards – In a competitive market, Dana's team innovates comp models (shoutout to her spreadsheet wizard!) to attract nurses and clinicians. Reflect: How are you ensuring your value prop wins the "yes" from top talent?Leadership Red Flags & Fixes – Spotting issues like leaders dodging employee engagement and lobbing problems to HR, Dana focuses on building clinical leadership skills. Empower managers to "do" leadership, not just learn it.Dana's fresh take: HR's seat is prime for driving change; embrace it! What ops tweak could transform your healthcare HR game?Join ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah, May 17-19—register at ashhra.org!For AP3 Group Stop Loss Interest, contact ASHHRA Executive Director, Jeremy Sadlier at jeremy.sadlier@ashhra.org or 312.985.7062.From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo sit down with Eric Cole, Corporate Senior Vice President of HR at Scripps Health in San Diego. With a unique background in finance and hospital administration, Eric shares how blending operational insight with HR strategy has transformed leadership and culture at Scripps.Key highlights include:Operations in HR: A Game-Changer – Eric discusses why HR pros need ops experience to drive strategy, especially when workforce costs hit 65% of expenses. Thought-provoking question: Are you bridging the gap between HR and operations in your organization?Stellar Engagement Results – Scripps jumped to the 86th percentile in employee engagement and 85th in belonging via Press Ganey surveys. Secrets? Multi-channel communication, staff-led problem-solving, and a focus on respect, recognition, and involvement.Building Trust Through Crises – From COVID to cyber attacks, Eric reveals how empowering teams and fostering relationships turned challenges into trust-building opportunities. Reflect: How prepared is your team to lead without a playbook?Leadership 101 (or 501?) – Insights on avoiding micromanagement, leveraging diverse skills, and using surveys as living tools for improvement. Eric emphasizes: Let staff own solutions—leaders remove barriers.This episode challenges HR leaders to rethink trust, involvement, and continuous improvement. What small change could spark big cultural shifts in your healthcare system?Don't miss ASHHRA 2026 in Savannah, May 17-19—register at ashhra.org!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

Join hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo for a lively episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, where they chat with Victor Gaines, AVP of Talent Acquisition at Wellstar Health System. Kicking off with NFL banter and a playful scoop on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's "engagement" (spoiler: it's all in good fun), the conversation quickly dives into Victor's eclectic career journey—from finance and TV to healthcare, pizza at Papa John's, and bourbon at Sazerac—now circling back to innovative TA in healthcare.Victor shares how his cross-industry experience (spanning high-volume hiring at Comcast and Papa John's to specialized roles at Fiserv and McKesson) equips him to tackle post-pandemic challenges like agility, digital transformation, and operational efficiency. The trio explores the transformative power of AI in TA: from automating scheduling and screening to combating bias and "hallucinations." Thought-provoking questions arise—can AI eradicate human biases, or does it amplify them? How close are we to AI-driven individualized learning or even clinical efficiencies?Key takeaways:Diverse Backgrounds Fuel Innovation: Victor's non-traditional path highlights why healthcare is increasingly recruiting external talent for fresh perspectives.AI's Double-Edged Sword: Essential for high-volume tasks but demands a "human in the loop" to mitigate risks like unintended bias or outdated data.Future-Proofing TA: Insights on pre-boarding, ambient listening in clinics, and ethical AI use—could we see 30%+ efficiency gains in five years?Victor's wisdom: "We've seen unprecedented change; now it's about agility to persevere." Whether you're in HR, TA, or curious about AI's role in work, this episode sparks debate on balancing tech with human judgment.Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or visit ashhra.org/ashhra-podcast. What biases lurk in your processes? Share your thoughts!From Our Sponsors...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNStreamline HR Compliance with oneBADGEhealthcareSimplify screening, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare HR. oneBADGEhealthcare from ISB Global offers a tailored solution to keep your workforce compliant and efficient. Built for healthcare leaders, it's your all-in-one compliance tool.Get Started here - https://isbglobalservices.com/onebadgeunitedstates/ashhra/ Support the show

In this special edition of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with three powerhouse voices from RxBenefits—Rhiannon Klein, Sarah Hearn, and Sarah McHale—to unpack the latest seismic shift in the 340B Drug Pricing Program and what it means for hospitals, health systems, and the communities they serve.What's at Stake? HRSA's newly announced pilot rebate model for 340B—initially affecting 10 IRA drugs—threatens to upend the way covered entities access drug discounts. Instead of receiving upfront savings, hospitals must now purchase at Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) and then request rebates from manufacturers. That shift could mean:Increased administrative burden and FTE needsDelayed cash flow—up to 55 days before rebate funds are receivedExpanded manufacturer access to sensitive claims dataGreater leverage for drug companies to deny rebates or restrict program accessWhy Healthcare HR Leaders Should Care This is more than a pharmacy or finance problem. The ripple effects of reduced 340B savings could force rural hospitals to cut services—or close entirely—impacting patient access, workforce health, and community stability. Key Insights from the Conversation:How the rebate model could snowball to cover more drugs and further erode 340B benefitsWhy data transparency requirements may be a double-edged sword for covered entitiesThe connection between Medicaid disenrollment under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and loss of 340B eligibilityThe growing threat to rural healthcare sustainability, with hundreds of hospitals already at risk of closureCall to Action: The panel urges healthcare leaders to educate themselves, cross-collaborate internally, and engage in advocacy now. With HRSA accepting comments on the pilot program until September 2, there's still a window to voice concerns—both formally and publicly.Listen to Learn:The mechanics of HRSA's rebate pilot and why it's controversialThe likely financial and operational impacts for hospitals of all sizesAdvocacy strategies that have the power to influence policy outcomes

In this powerful episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, Luke Carignan sits down with Kelly Martin, Vice President and CHRO at Texas Health Resources, to explore what it truly takes to lead large-scale HR transformation in one of the nation's largest health systems.With over 23 years at Texas Health Resources, Kelly has grown from an entry-level employee relations role to the organization's top HR leadership position. Now, she's spearheading a bold “HR Evolution”—centralizing transactional functions into a service center, building a competency-based career pathing system, and positioning HR as a true strategic partner to operations.Kelly pulls back the curtain on:First-Year Retention Challenges – Why retention rates for new hires, especially nurses, remain a critical concern across healthcare, and how Texas Health is tackling it head-on.Recalibration Over Layoffs – How she managed to restructure over 180 HR roles without mass job loss, creating new opportunities and clear development pathways for her team.Balancing Technology and People – Implementing systems like ServiceNow while ensuring the human side of HR remains central to workforce engagement and culture.Partnering with Operational Leaders – Aligning HR goals with business outcomes to improve culture, engagement, and retention.Leading with Empathy and Accountability – Delivering tough messages with compassion and transparency while keeping focus on the future vision.From building trust with leaders to forecasting workforce needs, Kelly shares the practical strategies and leadership mindset required to thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape. She also offers candid reflections on resilience, adaptability, and “playing offense” in HR rather than staying reactive.Whether you're a healthcare HR leader, executive decision-maker, or operations partner, this episode delivers actionable insights on workforce strategy, change management, and the critical role HR plays in organizational success.

In this powerful episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with Carrie O'Dell, Chief Human Resources Officer at Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin, for a candid and inspiring conversation about what it truly means to lead with courage, authenticity, and vision in today's healthcare environment.With over 25 years of progressive HR leadership, Carrie brings a grounded, people-first approach to shaping cultures that thrive, even in times of crisis. From redefining onboarding to confronting workplace trauma and burnout, her leadership philosophy is rooted in creating space for transparency, vulnerability, and action.

In this deeply moving and high-impact episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, Bo and Luke are joined by Maureen O'Brien, CEO of the Global Wisdom and Leadership Forum, keynote speaker, cancer survivor, and self-proclaimed “Sales Sage.” Together, they explore the powerful intersection of leadership, sales, mindset, and purpose in healthcare HR and beyond.This is not your typical sales conversation.Maureen shares transformative insights on how HR professionals can build internal sales acumen to effectively pitch strategic initiatives to executives like CEOs, CFOs, and Boards. She introduces the concept of the “18-inch vertical drop”… connecting head and heart, and how tapping into authentic communication is key to winning support for HR-led projects in today's complex healthcare environment.

Healthcare HR is at a crossroads, and Michael Olson is one of the leaders showing the way forward. In this future-focused episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with Michael, VP of HR Operations at Avera Health, to explore what it truly means to operate HR as a strategic business partner in today's high-stakes healthcare environment.

In this uplifting and honest conversation, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with Staci Taylor, a seasoned HR executive, musician, and passionate people champion to unpack what it really means to lead with heart in today's healthcare landscape.With a rich background leading human resources for some of the nation's largest health systems, Staci brings a refreshingly candid take on servant leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and the simple (but not easy) practice of treating people like… people.

In this special policy-focused episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan welcome back three powerhouse experts to help us navigate the urgent challenges facing hospital HR leaders today:

On this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, we're joined by Clara Blitch, Chief Human Resources Officer at Williamson Health, who returns to sharing the incredible journey of transforming a 60-year-old HR function into a modern, data-driven, people-first department, all without sacrificing the soul of the organization.

This week on The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo welcome Rhonda Hall, Chief Human Resources Officer for Southern California at Providence, to the mic. With a rich background in organizational development, change management, and performance excellence across highly regulated industries—from nuclear energy to healthcare—Rhonda brings a fresh, strategic lens to healthcare HR leadership.

In this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan welcome back Alyson Parker Gordon, now serving as Vice President of HR Shared Services at AdventHealth. Alyson brings fresh perspective from her new role, leading enterprise-level change across shared services, employee relations, talent, and the implementation of Workday HCM.This conversation dives into the heart of modern HR transformation—where people, process, and technology converge to elevate the employee experience and optimize operational efficiency.

Back by popular demand, Bruce Mattos—Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Phoebe Putney Health System—returns to the show for a candid, high-energy conversation on one of the most frustrating issues in recruitment: candidate ghosting. But Bruce doesn't just identify the problem—he offers practical, heartfelt strategies to elevate the entire candidate experience and drive long-term talent retention.Whether you're leading a TA team, managing hiring at a hospital, or just looking for ways to be more human in your hiring approach, this episode is a must-listen.What You'll Learn:

In this inspiring episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan welcome Michael Sloan, CHRO at CommonSpirit Health and author of Unlocking Talent: The Hidden Strengths That Build Extraordinary Teams and Cultures. With oversight of 11 hospitals, 16 clinics, and 8,000 employees, Michael brings a bold and fresh perspective to healthcare HR leadership.From his beginnings as a prosecutor and labor attorney to leading human resources in one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the country, Michael shares his unconventional journey—and how it shaped his people-first philosophy. What You'll Learn:The “IT Factor” in Talent Discover why subject-matter expertise isn't enough—and how intangibles like curiosity, resilience, and humility are what truly build high-performing teams.Lessons from the Courtroom Michael explains how his litigation background taught him to read people, build trust, and resolve conflict—essential skills for today's HR leaders.Redefining Leadership Accountability Why great leaders don't “meet halfway”—they take 100% responsibility for the relationships they build and the teams they develop.How to Spot Hidden Talent Learn how to go beyond resumes and credentials to identify and cultivate talent in overlooked employees.Building Culture Through Action Michael unpacks the relationship between culture and strategy, explaining how leaders must create space for growth, mistakes, and meaningful contributions.Insights from the Book Unlocking Talent isn't just another leadership book—it's a call to recognize and elevate the unseen strengths within your organization.Favorite Quotes:

In this powerful and candid conversation, hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan sit down with Billy Parsons, Chief Human Resources Officer at EyeCare Partners and a U.S. Navy veteran, to explore the real work of leading people—and the defining career moments that shape HR excellence.From Submarines to C-Suite: Billy's Unconventional Journey Billy's career path defies convention. From life in the Navy's tight quarters to HR leadership roles across healthcare, tech, and retail, he's earned his stripes the hard way. In this episode, he opens up about the lessons he learned as an HR department of one, the power of mentorship, and why starting from the ground up gave him a PhD in leadership—without ever stepping foot in a classroom.

In this engaging conversation that happened live at ASHHRA25 in Albuquerque, Felicia Miller, EVP and Chief Talent Officer, dives deep into the success and challenges faced at Parkland Health. Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect:Successful Workforce Strategies: Felicia shares Parkland Health's impressive retention rates, low vacancy rates, and how they've successfully kept the workforce engaged and thriving.Service Excellence and Human Experience: Discover what "service excellence" means at Parkland Health, as Felicia emphasizes the importance of creating a positive experience for employees, providers, and patients alike.Technology Transformation: Learn about Parkland Health's transition from PeopleSoft to Workday, and how they're ensuring a seamless shift without compromising their effective processes.Career Development and AI: Felicia passionately discusses how Parkland Health focuses on career development and the exciting future of integrating AI to enhance—not replace—the human workforce.Felicia's vision for the future of HR at Parkland is truly inspiring, as she aims to transition her department from "Flintstones to Jetsons!" Her leadership ensures that Parkland remains an employer of choice for those with a calling to serve.Make sure to tune in for these incredible insights and more! And remember, ASHHRA26 is happening next May in Savannah, Georgia. Mark your calendars for another opportunity to connect and grow with us.Listen to the full episode now and join us on this transformative journey with Felicia Miller!Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast TeamThis episode is sponsored by RxBenefits... Unlock Pharmacy Plan Potential!Your employees expect top-tier medical benefits, like comprehensive care access. But how can you balance these expectations against rising costs, across your full benefits portfolio? Did you know that hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions each year than other industries? How can you tell if all those prescriptions were needed, or if you could have had significant cost savings by filling at your own hospital pharmacies?Contact RxBenefits today to learn more: https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZNSupport the show Support the show

We're thrilled to bring you a fresh new episode from the ASHHRA Podcast, recorded live at ASHHRA25 in vibrant Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bo and Luke had the pleasure of welcoming back an incredible guest, Dr. Richard Safeer, Chief Medical Director of Employee Health and Well-being at Johns Hopkins Medicine.In our latest episode, Richard dives deep into the essential role that workplace leadership plays in fostering good health and well-being among employees. With 25 years of experience under his belt, he shared insights that are not only thought-provoking but also actionable.Key Takeaways:Leaders' Role: Dr. Safeer underscores the pivotal influence that leaders have on their team's mental health. Learn how a simple shift in a manager's demeanor can significantly impact a team's mood and productivity.Trainings That Matter: Discover how Johns Hopkins is transforming leadership training by integrating health and well-being into their core programs. Richard shares practical steps on infusing well-being into your daily work routine.Unpacking Priorities: Ever felt overwhelmed by an endless to-do list? Richard explains how defining clear priorities can reduce stress and elevate workplace engagement.Embrace the Science: Get ready to connect the dots between mood contagion and the science behind emotional impact in the workplace.This conversation is perfect for HR and healthcare professionals looking to lead healthier and more intentional work environments. Plus, don't miss Richard's book, "A Cure for the Common Company," awarded continuing education credits by SHRM. It's a valuable resource for all HR leaders!Whether you're tuning in on your commute or during a break, this episode promises to deliver insights and inspiration. Head over to our website or your favorite podcast platform to listen in.Until next time, keep thriving and prioritizing well-being in your workplace!Best, The ASHHRA Podcast TeamP.S. Mark your calendars for next year's ASHHRA conference in Savannah, Georgia! Let's make strides in creating healthy workplace cultures together. Support the show

We're thrilled to bring you the latest episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, recorded live from the ASHHRA 2025 Conference in vibrant Albuquerque!In this special episode, our hosts Luke and Bo sit down with the insightful Emily Endert, Corporate Director of HR at Covenant Woods in Mechanicsville, Virginia. Emily shares her incredible journey of joining Covenant Woods back in 2005, a place that's much more than just a retirement community. It's a village teeming with life where healthcare regulations meet heartwarming stories and community connections.Emily dives into the challenges and triumphs of recruiting in the healthcare industry, highlighting the unique nature of working in a community where residents make life-changing commitments to stay. She offers a glimpse into the importance of building genuine relationships and how Covenant Woods fosters an environment where employees and residents thrive.Curious about workplace dynamics? The conversation unpacks the unique benefits and occasional challenges of working in a setting that's both employees' workplace and residents' home. Hear about Emily's innovative solutions to the universal challenges like minimum wage adjustments, employee appreciation, and the small joys that come from refusing gifts with grace.Oh, and did we mention the farm-to-table garden at Covenant Woods? Emily details how this not only supplies fresh produce to the community but also attracts new residents excited by the homey, engaged living experience.Plus, get inspired by the conference energy and explore why the ASHHRA annual gathering is a must-attend event. Whether it's networking, innovation, or the sheer joy of face-to-face interactions, there's something for everyone.Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast TeamP.S. Mark your calendars now for ASHHRA26 in Savannah, Georgia (May) and, who knows, maybe you'll join Bo and Luke on the podcast stage next year!Support the show

In this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, we sit down with DJ Campbell, Chief Human Resources Officer at Sanford Health, to discuss the powerful role leadership development plays in transforming healthcare organizations. DJ shares insights from his dual perspective—sitting on the executive team of a major regional market while shaping strategy for Sanford's 60,000+ employees.Listeners will discover: ✔️ How Sanford Health is rethinking leadership development from the inside out ✔️ The critical difference between tactical leaders and transformational ones ✔️ Why physician leadership and informal influence are key to building resilient teams ✔️ How developing every employee can strengthen organizational culture and retention ✔️ What “restless leadership” really looks like in actionWhether you're an HR executive, frontline leader, or individual contributor, DJ's experience and energy will inspire you to challenge outdated assumptions and invest in the people who power healthcare.The ASHHRA Podcast TeamSupport the show

We are thrilled to share this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast featuring the incredible Tonya Richards, Vice President of HR and Organizational Development at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York.In this enlightening episode, co-hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo dive into a conversation with Tonya about her extensive 20-year journey in healthcare HR. With a rich background in talent management, diversity, equity, and inclusion, Tonya brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating inclusive and empowering workplaces.Here's a peek into what you'll learn by tuning in:The Power of Engagement: Tonya shares insights into how ongoing conversations, including innovative "stay interviews," can enhance employee retention and prevent exits from your organization.Diverse Leadership: Discover how diversity, equity, and inclusion can be interwoven into every part of the employee lifecycle, creating a culture of belonging and empowerment.Career Growth and People-Centric Leadership: Learn from Tonya's experiences as she discusses the importance of intentional development in both employees and leaders, ensuring alignment with personal values and organizational goals.Insightful Leadership Memories: Tonya reflects on the mentors who shaped her career and the importance of having leaders who empower their teams with trust and autonomy.This episode is a treasure trove of HR strategies that are instrumental for anyone looking to foster a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic organizational culture.Don't miss the chance to hear Tonya's journey and wisdom! Tune in now and elevate your HR game.As always, we appreciate your support and the incredible work you do in the healthcare HR industry. If you enjoy the episode, feel free to share it with your network or drop us a note—we'd love to hear from you!Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

In this episode, we explore the exciting world of healthcare talent acquisition and the dynamic role AI plays in transforming this landscape. Lisa Abbay, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Powerback Rehabilitation shares her journey from being a registered dietitian to leading talent acquisition and offers invaluable insights into how technology is reshaping the way we find and hire talent in healthcare.

We are thrilled to bring you insights from a recent episode of The ASHHRA Podcast featuring Katie Cullinan, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Nuvance Health. With over two decades of experience in HR, Katie's journey from architecture to the heart of healthcare HR showcases her adaptability and relentless pursuit of purpose.In this episode, Luke Carignan navigates a vibrant discussion with Katie on the importance of aligning personal fulfillment with professional roles. Katie eloquently shares her path to HR—from exploring the creative realms of architecture, moving through robust project management, to embracing organizational development and then HR. Her insights highlight the significance of finding what genuinely fulfills you during your professional journey.Key Highlights:Embracing Authenticity: Katie delves into how bringing your authentic self to work can ignite both personal and professional transformation. She emphasizes the power of diverse experiences and fostering an environment where different perspectives drive innovation.Work-Life Harmony: A fascinating discussion unfolds around the concept of "work-life harmony" over balance. Katie shares her personal strategies for managing priorities, reinforcing the idea that the scales of work and personal life can ebb and flow harmoniously.Listening as Leadership: Katie reveals her dedication to listening, a skill she actively hones every day. Whether it's making informed business decisions or fostering strategic HR partnerships, listening is the cornerstone of her leadership success.Culture of Empowerment: From offering PTO strategies to cultivating a culture where employees feel valued and heard, Katie's leadership at NuVance Health is built on empowerment and support.Katie's journey and insights serve as a profound reminder of the impact of intentional leadership and living a life aligned with your values. Whether you're navigating your career in HR or any other industry, there is much to glean from Katie's experiences.We encourage you to listen to the full episode if you haven't already—it's brimming with practical wisdom and heartfelt advice. As always, thank you for being part of our vibrant community dedicated to advancing healthcare HR.Best Regards,The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

We have an exciting update for you in anticipation of the upcoming ASHHRA25 conference—one you won't want to miss! In our latest episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, we had an inspiring conversation with Sara Ross, our keynote speaker for the event. If you haven't listened to it yet, now's the time!Episode Highlights:Meet Sara Ross: Sara is not only a keynote speaker at ASHHRA25 but also the Chief Vitality Officer and founder of Brain Amped. She injects her passion for human behavior into understanding organizational culture and performance sciences. With over fifteen years of experience, Sara focuses on developing psychological vitality to help individuals harness emotions and direct energy positively.Insights and Anecdotes: Sara shared her experiences and thoughts on building resilience and the importance of curiosity and empathy in the workplace. She discussed strategies for addressing workplace challenges and stressed the value of asking questions and pausing before reacting.Purposeful Friction: One of the key takeaways from the episode is the concept of "purposeful friction"—understanding that growth often stems from challenges and taking a proactive approach to learning from them.Get Involved: As Sara will be joining us in person in Albuquerque, it's your chance to meet her and hear her insightful perspectives live. We encourage everyone to join in on the conversation and engage with both Sara and us, Bo and Luke, at the conference. Share your thoughts and experiences, and let's explore the future of HR together!Upcoming Events:ASHHRA25 Conference: Join us in Albuquerque for a game-changing event full of learning and networking opportunities. Not registered yet? Make sure to secure your spot!Meet the Podcast Hosts: Bo and Luke will be at the event recording new episodes. We would love to feature voices from the audience, so come by our booth or catch us during the conference to share your story.Connect with Us:Follow Sara Ross on her journey: Check out her book, "Dear Work, Something Has to Change" and stay tuned for her new website launch.Stay updated with us: Follow on LinkedIn and Instagram for more behind-the-scenes content and resources straight from the conference floor.We're looking forward to seeing you there and making ASHHRA25 an unforgettable experience. Until then, enjoy listening to the podcast and start the conversation with us online!Warm regards,Bo & LukeHosts of The ASHHRA Podcast Support the show

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the ASHHRA Podcast, where we bring you the latest discussions, trends, and breakthroughs in the world of healthcare HR. This week, we're delving deep into the powerful domain of Total Rewards with our distinguished guest, Lindsey Garito, AVP of Total Rewards at Montefiore Health System.In this episode, the dynamic duo from The Bo & Luke Show, Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo, chat with Lindsey about the essential role Total Rewards plays in attracting, retaining, and engaging talent. With over 20 years of experience in HR, Lindsey expertly navigates us through the facets of Total Rewards and its strategic impact on organizations.Here's a sneak peek of what you'll learn:What is Total Rewards?Lindsey breaks down this crucial element of HR, which encompasses more than just compensation and benefits. Discover how Total Rewards create a unified strategy to promote an organization's culture and values.The Value Proposition Challenge:Lindsey discusses the complexities of crafting a compelling value proposition that resonates with diverse employee populations, from rookies to veterans.Insights into Employee Engagement:Explore how Lindsey's team personalizes communication to ensure that employees fully understand and utilize their benefits.Educational Initiatives:Get inspired by Montefiore Health System's innovative approach to financial literacy and how it empowers employees to take charge of their financial well-being.Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation that not only highlights the transformative power of Total Rewards but also provides practical advice on enhancing your HR strategies and operations.Stay tuned for more enriching content, and as always, we'd love to hear your thoughts.Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

We are excited to share insights from our latest episode of The ASHHRA Podcast featuring the dynamic Laura Dannels, Chief Talent Officer at Wellstar Health System in Atlanta.In this episode, we dive deep into Laura's inspiring journey and her innovative approach to talent acquisition and management in the healthcare industry. With a rich history in HR, Laura's expertise spans talent acquisition, management, and learning, all underpinned by her academic background as a PhD and MBA. Laura shares her deep commitment to improving the healthcare environment, inspired by personal experiences and a passion for meaningful impact.Key Highlights:Nurturing Future Talent:Laura emphasizes the importance of not waiting for titles to make impactful change. Whether you're in healthcare or another industry, this episode is filled with valuable insights on taking ownership and driving initiatives that matter.Building Internal Universities:Drawing from her foundational work at Kaiser Permanente, Laura sheds light on the significance of internal learning systems and offers tips for organizations looking to implement such programs.Flexible Work Models in Healthcare:Learn about innovative ways Wellstar Health System is rethinking work models, including AI integration and flexible scheduling, to meet modern challenges and attract top talent.The Power of Mindset:Laura highlights the importance of self-care, gratitude, and mindful practices to ensure leaders are at their best, ready to drive success and inspire those around them.We also get personal with Laura as she discusses her morning rituals and how she maintains a growth mindset amidst the pressures of leading in a rapidly evolving industry.Laura's contributions go beyond just her professional endeavors as she also serves as an adjunct professor, inspiring a new generation of HR leaders at Columbia University.This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their field. Whether you're in healthcare, HR, or any other industry, Laura's insights are sure to resonate and inspire.Thank you for being a valued listener of The ASHHRA Podcast, where we continue to bring you conversations with leaders who are reshaping industries and making a difference.Stay inspired, The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

We're excited to bring you the latest episode of the ASHHRA Podcast, featuring the return of a special guest, Kris Baird! As the CEO and President of The Baird Group, Kris has decades of experience helping healthcare organizations transform their cultures, improve patient experiences, and develop high-performing teams.In this episode, Kris dives deep into two impactful topics that are vital for healthcare professionals: "How to Make Training Stick" and "How to Think Like a Marketer." These discussions are packed with actionable insights that you can implement in your organization to elevate your team's performance and service delivery.Here's a sneak peek of what you'll learn:The importance of aligning training with your brand, corporate culture, values, and strategic goals.How to plan effectively for training, ensuring it is not just a one-time event but a meaningful starting point for new behaviors.The concept of "drip campaigns" for continuous reinforcement and the pivotal role of leadership in making training stick.Ways to measure the ROI of training, integrating data-driven approaches for better engagement and retention.Kris shares her expertise on creating a holistic ecosystem for training, addressing common gaps, and offering practical solutions. Her approach emphasizes the significance of prework assessments, focused training, and thorough follow-up.Interested in diving deeper? Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear Kris's insightful session from last year's ASHHRA conference on "How to Think Like Marketers." If you need assistance accessing the recorded sessions, feel free to reach out to us at the podcast.For more information, valuable resources, or to connect with Kris Baird directly, visit baird-group.com or email her at kris@baird-group.com.We hope you enjoy this enlightening episode and encourage you to share your thoughts and feedback with us.Happy listening!Best regards,The ASHHRA Podcast TeamWant to make training stick? Download this exclusive handout from Kris Baird to ensure your training drives real behavior change, improves ROI, and aligns with organizational goals.

We're thrilled to bring you the latest insights from The ASHHRA Podcast. In this episode, our hosts, Bo Bo and Luke were joined by John Zubiena, the esteemed Chief Human Resources Officer at Washington Hospital Healthcare System. This episode dives into the intriguing world of outsourcing recruitment and the transformative impact it has on healthcare organizations.Key Highlights:Outsourcing Recruitment: John Zubiena shares his invaluable experience of outsourcing recruitment to an RPO (Recruitment Process Outsourcing) firm, breaking down how this approach alleviates anxiety while maintaining efficiency within the healthcare recruitment process.Navigating Challenges: Discover how John and his team tackled initial hesitations and logistical challenges, ensuring a seamless transition from in-house recruiting to an outsourced model, thus guaranteeing consistently high-quality hires.Strategic Process Improvement: Learn about the implementation of lean processes to streamline onboarding and recruitment, enhancing overall efficiency while adapting to the unique demands of a unionized staffing environment.The Power of RPO in Healthcare: Uncover the advantages of an RPO in providing specialized recruitment support, access to passive candidates, and flexibility during periods of growth or high turnover in the healthcare sector.This enlightening conversation is perfect for HR professionals in the healthcare field, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of recruitment.Thank you for being part of The ASHHRA Podcast community!Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

Special Episode – Part 2 is brimming with valuable insights. This special episode dives deep into the intricacies and future of the 340B drug pricing program, featuring an engaging panel discussion with experts Peggy Tighe, Sarah Hearn, and Rhiannon Klein.Key Highlights from the Episode:Future of the 340B Program: Peggy Tighe provides an illuminating overview of what the next twelve months might hold for the 340B drug pricing program. With various legislative movements and court cases influencing the program, it's crucial to stay informed on how these changes could affect healthcare HR leaders.Legislative Updates: The Sustain Act is a beacon of hope for advancing 340B legislation. Our guests discuss the proposed changes and their potential impact on the program, as well as the political maneuvers shaping these legislative efforts.The Role of Advocacy: Rhiannon Klein underscores the importance of amplifying positive stories about the 340B Program. She shares insights on advocacy strategies, encouraging covered entities to share their success stories to counteract the negative narratives pushed by pharmaceutical companies.Compliance Challenges: Sarah Hearn sheds light on the compliance landscape and the ongoing challenges faced by covered entities and manufacturers. She emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and advocacy to ensure fair treatment within the realms of 340B discounts and pharmaceutical rebates.Strategies for Staying Informed: Our hosts and guests offer practical advice for healthcare HR professionals on keeping abreast of the latest developments in the 340B space. From leveraging industry networks to attending key conferences, they share actionable tips to help you stay ahead.As always, we encourage you to listen to the full episode where these topics are discussed in greater detail. This episode is a goldmine for anyone involved with or interested in the 340B program, providing you with essential insights and actionable advice.Stay Connected:For those who wish to delve deeper, the contact information of our panelists is available in the show notes of the episode.If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us directly, and we'll be happy to assist in connecting you with our experts.Thank you for being part of our community and for your unwavering commitment to advancing excellence in healthcare HR. We look forward to continuing this important dialogue and helping you navigate the complexities of the 340B program.Warm regards,The ASHHRA Podcast Team Support the show

This episode of The ASHHRA Podcast features Jeff Knapp, the Chief People Officer at BAYADA Home Health Care. Jeff joined our dynamic hosts, Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo, to discuss how values, culture, and consistent communication can drive an organization to new heights.Episode Highlights:A Journey from Ministry to HR Leadership Jeff began his career as a pastor before transitioning to the corporate world. This unique background became the foundation for his human-centric approach to leadership. Discover how Jeff leverages his experiences in psychology, theology, and philosophy to foster an inclusive and purpose-driven workplace.Creating and Sustaining a Values-Based Culture At BAYADA, the core values of compassion, excellence, and reliability are more than just words—they are practiced daily. Jeff explains how weekly communications like the "key action of the week" email help keep these values at the forefront, creating a unified culture across over 360 locations globally.The Importance of Simplicity and Consistency Jeff emphasizes that building a successful organization isn't about complex strategies but rather the diligent application of simple, fundamental principles. Regular communication, recognition, and a steadfast commitment to values are what truly makes a difference.Engagement and Connection Learn about the innovative practices at BAYADA that keep employees engaged and connected, even when they work remotely as caregivers. Jeff sheds light on their twice-yearly engagement surveys and the concept of an "inverted pyramid," where caregivers are seen as the most important part of the organization.Leadership Insights With anecdotes from his own career and references to influential experiences with organizations like Aramark and Studer Group, Jeff provides actionable advice for HR professionals and business leaders aiming to build a thriving, supportive, and community-focused workplace.We hope this episode leaves you with new strategies and a renewed sense of how vital culture and value-based leadership are to the success of any organization.Stay Engaged, The ASHHRA Podcast TeamSponsor informationwww.LFG.com/HealthcareLincoln Financial annuities, life insurance, and workplace solutions help nearly 17 million customers confidently plan for their financial future. Lincoln Financial. Your Tomorrow. Our Priority. Lincoln Financial is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation and its insurance companies and broker/dealer affiliate Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. Support the show

We're thrilled to share with you the latest special episode of The ASHHRA Podcast. This episode dives into the critical topic of how recent election results impact the 340B drug pricing program—a program essential for healthcare HR professionals.Featured Experts:Sarah Hearn: Strategic Health Care Market Adviser at RxBenefitsRhiannon Klein: National Director of Advocacy for Community Voices for 340BPeggy Tighe: Lawyer, Lobbyist, and Legislative Consultant (Principal at Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville PC)Key Highlights:Overview of the 340B ProgramPeggy Tighe provides a concise history and foundational perspective of the 340B program, established to help specific healthcare providers obtain medications at reduced prices to serve vulnerable communities. Peggy emphasizes the ongoing struggle between the program's intent and the pressures from pharmaceutical companies and PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers).Election Impact on HealthcareOur experts explore how the recent election and new administration might affect the 340B program. Peggy reveals potential threats like the possibility of removing the non-profit status of hospitals, which could have devastating effects on healthcare providers' ability to serve communities.The Role of Advocacy and LegislationRhiannon Klein discusses grassroots advocacy's importance and the organization's role in educating and mobilizing supporters to protect the 340B program. She emphasizes that the fight for fair drug pricing isn't just a political issue; it's a moral imperative affecting countless lives.Contract Pharmacy RestrictionsBoth Peggy and Sarah delve into the implications of the Genesis Health case and how contract pharmacy restrictions are undermining the 340B program. They explain how such restrictions harm healthcare providers and the strategies being employed to counteract these changes.RxBenefits and Healthcare Cost ManagementSarah Hearn explains how RxBenefits is working with healthcare clients to optimize the 340B savings and reduce overall drug costs. Sarah highlights the importance of shifting 340B volume in-house and ensuring compliance to maximize benefits.Looking AheadOur experts leave listeners with actionable insights and resources to better prepare for the changing healthcare landscape. Peggy encourages everyone to stay informed and involved through advocacy organizations like CB 340B, NAC, and Ryan White Clinics for 340B.Listen Now!Don't miss this essential episode filled with expert insights and actionable advice. Stay tuned for part 2 of this critical discussion, where we will explore post-election impacts and future strategies for healthcare HR leaders.Best Regards,The ASHHRA Podcast TeamSponsor informationwww.LFG.com/HealthcareLincoln Financial annuities, life insurance, and workplace solutions help nearly 17 million customers confidently plan for their financial future. Lincoln Financial. Your Tomorrow. Our Priority. Lincoln Financial is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation and its insurance companies and broker/dealer affiliate Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. Support the show

Are you ready to revolutionize your talent acquisition approach? In this transformative episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, hosts Luke Carignan and Bo Brabo dive deep into the world of healthcare talent acquisition with the brilliant and dynamic Jen Azuri-Humm, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Emory Healthcare.With over 18 years of diverse experience in the talent acquisition space, Jen brings a powerhouse of knowledge that stretches beyond traditional healthcare settings. Her journey, insights, and actionable strategies will leave you inspired and ready to take your talent acquisition to the next level.

In this episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, we dive deep into the world of human resources and leadership with our esteemed guest, Maria Zangardi, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Universal Health Services (UHS).