The HR Room Podcast

Episode 176 – Data Driven Change

As HR professionals, we know driving change is difficult. But we also know that driving change is essential – not just for organisations to grow and thrive, but most importantly for our people, of all backgrounds, abilities and characteristics to grow and thrive also. One thing that does make managing change easier however, is data. So where do we get it, and how do we properly use it?

Well to talk to us about this today we’re delighted to be joined by a guiding light in this area, and a familiar face to many of you event goers, podcast listeners and the likes, the wonderful Siobhan McKenna, Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at Public Jobs.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 175 – Let’s Talk Probation & Performance

A probation period, at a simple level is a period of time at the start of a permanent full-time or part-time employment relationship that gives the employer the opportunity to assess whether their new employee is capable, reliable and suitable for the job.

Simple in essence, but not so simple if not handled properly – with potentially both the employer and the employee left feeling frustrated if the key fundamentals and communication are missed. So, to talk to us about how to ensure performance management during probation is handled correctly, and to explain what can happen if it isn’t, we’re joined by Joe Thompson, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 174 – Reonboarding: Supporting the return to work

Unfortunately, whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all at some point felt that Sunday fear of having to return to work to a mountain of emails after a really nice long weekend or holiday. But what about people who are returning from a much longer period away from work? People trying to figure out how they’ll slot back in to working life after months or maybe even a year away from the office? For them, it’s a little bit different, to say the least!

So to talk us through this today, chatting about re-onboarding, what we should do, the support we should provide, and everything in between, we’re joined by recent winner of the Diversity & Inclusion Leader award at the PWC Image Awards 2024, Michelle O’ Keeffe, Co-Founder at Platform55.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 173 – LGBTQ+ Inclusion: Turning Awareness Into Action

In a 2023 study by Indeed, over half (53%) of respondents who identify as LGBTQ+ felt discriminated against at work. And although, of the 500 surveyed participants who identified as LGBTQIA+, 92% stated they were ‘out’ at work, only 34% were ‘out’ to everyone they worked with, while 57% disclosed this only to those they trusted at work. Something is wrong here.

Although we see fantastic groups constantly pushing the inclusion agenda forward, and some employers doing good work in this area, it seems like there’s still so much more we need to understand, and so much more we need to do.

So to talk to us about this today we’re delighted to be joined by someone who is a huge advocate for this, and someone who was recently awarded the 2024 Diversity Champion Award at the CIPD Ireland awards for his work on this and so much more, the brilliant Samuel Riggs, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Manager at Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 172 – The ROI On Workplace Wellbeing

Is your HR team struggling to balance your HR budget, while still trying to enhance employee wellbeing? While the latter is a driver for commercial success, the Return-On-Investment (ROI) of wellbeing initiatives often comes under scrutiny during challenging financial times.

The ROI of wellbeing is a critical area of interest at Top Employers Institute who are the global authority on recognising excellence in people practices.

So who better to speak to about this than Abigail Britnell, European Account Manager at Top Employers Institute!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 171 – Can we talk retirement?

Some of the challenges or topics we speak about on this podcast, or see in the headlines may not affect us all. There are however, a select few topics that will almost certainly land on the table of every single one of us – and one of those is retirement.

But despite the fact that this is a topic that is pretty much unavoidable, it’s not without its challenges and concerns for HR teams and employers.

So let’s dig a little deeper in to this, and share some very topical and practical advice, as today we welcome Aoife Newton, Head of Employment at KPMG Law.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 170 – Tackling The HR To-Do List

Any of our more regular listeners will know that one thing has featured on this podcast more than anything else in recent months. No, I don’t mean me, I don’t mean Mary, I mean one thing that HR people everywhere will know all too well, it’s that ever-growing HR to-do list.

And from what we hear, you all know why this has come up so often – it’s been a busy couple of years for HR teams and organisations! So the good news is, if you have a big HR to-do list, you’re not alone.

But the even better news is, we’re joined today by someone who can help us finally tackle the big to-do list, Author, Agile Consultant, Life Design Coach and Founder, James Parnell.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 169 – Is Ireland working for all?

Ireland continues to grow and change. And in recent years, the workplace and organisations have certainly felt that growth and change with remote working, more progressive policies, diversity and inclusion, and so much more, along with the natural reflection from wider society too. As they say though, nothing worth having comes easy, and with progress comes challenges, and things we can do better.

So to talk to us about this today from a workplace level, national level, and a personal level, we’re delighted to be joined by Ivana Bacik, leader of the Labour Party and TD for Dublin Bay South.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 168 – Bank of Ireland’s Neuroinclusion Strategy

Bank of Ireland recently launched its Neuroinclusion Strategy, including a suite of policies and process improvements to support neurodivergent colleagues and candidates. In line with its ambition to be one the best places to work, Bank of Ireland aims to become one of the most neuroinclusive organisations in the country.

But what does this involve, how are they going about it, and why?

To talk us through this we’re delighted to be joined by Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank of Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 167 – Tackling Workplace Discrimination

Although legislation, policies and practices have been aiming to prevent, or at least minimise, workplace discrimination for decades, this is still a very live issue. We need only look at the headlines, the WRC case reports and the various survey findings to discover that, although there is so much being done, so much more needs to be done.

So to talk to us about exactly that, we’re delighted to be joined again by our very own Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 166 – The Parent Trap: Maternity Leave Discrimination

Pregnancy, early parenthood, maternity leave etc. – some of the most important, happiest, and also challenging times in your life, as you navigate the world of soon-to-be, or brand new, parenthood. However, on top of the challenges of adapting to this, many women in Ireland are also facing challenges in the workplace or from their organisation in the form of maternity discrimination.

So to talk us through this topic, discussing legislation, prevention and everything in between, we’re delighted to be joined by Adrian Twomey, Partner at Jacob and Twomey Solicitors.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 165 – CIPD-IRN Private Sector Pay & Employment Report 2024

The annual CIPD–IRN private sector report has recently been released, and captures the changing pay and employment trends as well as the drivers of change in the labour market in Ireland. It’s always an interesting and useful piece of research, and this year is no different, with some fantastic insights into the world of work here in Ireland.

And to share some of these insights and speak to us today, we’re delighted to be joined by Mary Connaughton, Director at CIPD Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 164 – Corporate Social Justice

As noted by the Open Doors Initiative at their recent leaders summit, “this socially charged world is requiring companies to re-examine their CSR policy. Not only do consumers demand it, but employees do, too. It’s evolved from corporate social responsibility to corporate social justice.”

Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Well on this episode of the HR Room Podcast, we spoke about this concept of corporate social justice with not one, but two, special guests – Jeanne McDonagh, CEO of the Open Doors Initiative, and Edel McSorley, Operations Director at Mr Price!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 163 – On-the-Spot Fines for Breaches of Employment Laws

Regulations have been published setting out new “on the spot” fines that can be imposed on employers by a Workplace Relations Commission inspector for employment law offences.

But which offences are included, how will this work, and what must employers do to ensure they don’t get fined?

To answer these questions and more, we’re delighted to be joined by Sarah Lawn, Senior associate in the Employment Law Group at Arthur Cox. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 162 – Code Of Practice On Flexible & Remote Working

It’s finally here! On the off chance you missed it, the new Code of Practice for Employers and Employees Right to Request Flexible Working and Right to Request Remote Working finally landed, meaning that employers and employees now have clarity on this topic – we think! But there’s lots to unpick here, and lots of things employers must be aware of.

So to talk to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by Jennifer Cashman, Partner & Head of Employment at RDJ Solicitors.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 161 – Right To Silence In Workplace Investigations?​

“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say may be used against you in a court of law.”

Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? We’ve all heard this on criminal dramas from the US. But of course, things aren’t always as simple as they sound – and when we talk about the right to silence here in Ireland, under the lens of a workplace investigation, it’s certainly a little bit different, to say the least!

So to talk to us about this, along with a case that has brought this topic to the forefront of employment law here in Ireland, we’re delighted to be joined by Barry Crushell, Principal Solicitor at Crushell & Co | Law At Work.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 160 – An update on the Gender Pay Gap

Later this week, we will be celebrating International Women’s Day again, an annual call to all to keep pushing for equality and inclusion for women everywhere. And one of the biggest pieces of work in driving this in workplaces, and something that will be particularly familiar to our listeners, is the gender pay gap.

So, as gender pay gap reporting expands this year, and progress continues to be made, just how are we doing when it comes to the gender pay gap here in Ireland?

To talk us through the findings of Citris Rewards Consulting’s recent research on the matter, and more, we’re delighted to be joined again by Oliver Coakley, Director at Citris Rewards Consulting.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 159 – Morgan McKinley Salary Guide 2024

As you may have seen, the 2024 edition of Morgan McKinley’s Salary Guide, which analyses salary data for a range of IT roles across Ireland, has been released. Morgan McKinley surveyed 650 businesses and 3,400 professionals as part of its overall research, unveiling some interesting and useful findings!

And to talk us through the findings and more, we’re delighted to be joined by Eoin Connolly, Operations Director at Morgan McKinley Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 158 – The A-Z of AI in HR

Is AI going to steal all of our jobs? No, but somebody with AI skills, just might!

In episode 158 of The HR Room Podcast, we speak to AI & Digital Transformation Expert and Author, Kieran Gilmurray, about all things AI – the opportunities, the risks, the potential for your organisation, and how to get started!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 157 – Workplace Romance

This Valentines Day, as always, love is in the air – but what happens when love is in the workplace? Are there certain rules, is it a thorny issue for employers, or is all fair in love and work?

Well to speak to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by Catherine Hayes, Managing Associate in the Employment team at Lewis Silkin Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 156 – It’s Time To Talk About Domestic Violence

2023 & the start of 2024 brought some more key updates in employment law and the world of work, as we’ve spoke about in recent weeks. And one of the most welcome updates, has come in the area of domestic violence leave and support for victims and survivors. But how do we navigate this as employers, how do we manage these situations, and how can we make sure we’re giving the right support to those affected?

Well to answer these questions and many more, we’re delighted to be joined by Naoimh Murphy, Communications & Training Officer at Amber Women’s Refuge.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 155 – Employment Law Update 2024

It’s that time of year again to guide you through employment law for the year ahead, as we explore some of the key updates, topics and challenges HR teams are facing and need to focus on in 2024.

And to do this we’re delighted to be joined again by Jennifer Cashman, Partner & Head of Employment at RDJ Solicitors.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 154 – Employees Assemble: Back to the office in 2024?

An article in the Irish Times last week, reads that “The vast majority of Irish employers will not change their hybrid working policies this year, according to a new survey from Hays Ireland, but a large proportion will require more physical office attendance from their employees than recent years.”

Is 2024 marking a big shift in ways of working? Is worklife balance going to simply survive or thrive this year? Where do organisations and their employees stand?

Well to answer these questions and many more, we’re delighted to be joined by Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 153 – Immigration Law For Employers

There have been substantial changes to immigration law in Ireland in recent months, with huge progress being made and with many employers being very actively interested in this area of employment law. But with critical skills, salary requirements, eligibility, naturalisation, rules and procedures, and much more, there is a lot for HR teams and organisations to get their heads around.

But to help us do that today, we’re delighted to be joined by Cian Moriarty, Partner in the Employment Group at Phillip Lee Solicitors.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 152 – Policies for Parents & Carers

Although the past year or so has brought a whole raft of new legislation and updates to employment law, many of these updates have been hugely beneficial, people-focused, and progressive in nature, meaning that employees are getting many more positive changes in the workplace. And one group who has certainly been covered by these changes, and we hope will feel the benefit is families, parents and carers.

And to speak to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by Deirdre Malone, Partner, Head of Employment Law, EY Law Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 151 – Insight HR’s Selection Box – Best of 2023 Part 2

From Happy Christmas to Happy New Year – that was quick! A huge thank you again for listening in this year, and hearing some of the fantastic insights and advice we were lucky enough to get from some amazing guests yet again this year.

This week, comes the second in our two-part, selection box series, containing some of the highlights from the year gone by.

In this episode, check out some clips from our interviews with Judith Curran (Counsel, Employment Law & Benefits at Mason, Hayes & Curran), Barry Crushell (Principal Solicitor at Crushell & Co | Law At Work), Jennifer Cashman (Partner & Head of Employment at RDJ Solicitors), and Alex Hogarty (Global Head of Wellbeing at Novartis and formerly, Global Program Lead of Performance Management for Novartis).

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 150 – Insight HR’s Selection Box – Best of 2023 Part 1

Happy Christmas to all of our listeners! A huge thank you for listening in this year, and hearing some of the fantastic insights and advice we were lucky enough to get from some amazing guests yet again this year.

So as a thanks, and as a summary of some of the brilliant conversations we’ve had this year, we’re finishing 2023 with a two-part, selection box series, containing some of the highlights from the year gone by.

In this episode, check out some clips from our interviews with Peter Cheese (CEO at CIPD), Sarah Benson (CEO at Women’s Aid), Sinead Proos (Head of Wellbeing at Laya Healthcare), Jeni Brown (Chief People Officer at Teamwork), Tracy Gunn (Co-Founder at Platform 55) and Paul Merriman (Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone & Founder of AskPaul).

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 150 – Insight HR’s Selection Box – Best of 2023 Part 1

Happy Christmas to all of our listeners! A huge thank you for listening in this year, and hearing some of the fantastic insights and advice we were lucky enough to get from some amazing guests yet again this year.

So as a thanks, and as a summary of some of the brilliant conversations we’ve had this year, we’re finishing 2023 with a two-part, selection box series, containing some of the highlights from the year gone by.

In this episode, check out some clips from our interviews with Peter Cheese (CEO at CIPD), Sarah Benson (CEO at Women’s Aid), Sinead Proos (Head of Wellbeing at Laya Healthcare), Jeni Brown (Chief People Officer at Teamwork), Tracy Gunn (Co-Founder at Platform 55) and Paul Merriman (Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone & Founder of AskPaul).

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 149 – HR’s New Years Resolutions

As we come to the end of the year, I’m sure many of you are thinking about New Years Resolutions, or maybe even more specifically, about how you can come back to work in 2024 with a fresh start and some clear goals.

Well, if so, then we’ve got just the chat for you now as we’ll be discussing New Year’s Resolutions for HR professionals!

Joining us today to share her thoughts on what HR professionals and teams should be focusing on in the New Year, we’re delighted to be joined by Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 148 – Laya Healthcare Wellbeing Index 2023

Hot off the press, Laya Healthcare have recently released the findings of their Workplace Wellbeing Index 2023, one of Ireland’s largest studies among Irish employees and employers in the workplace. This research surveyed 1,000 employees in Ireland across a range of sectors, polled 200 HR leaders across Ireland, and also conducted a range of in-depth interviews.

And to talk to us about the findings of this research, we’re delighted be joined by Sinead Proos, Head of Health & Wellbeing at Laya Healthcare.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 147 – Let’s Talk Long-Term Absence

Long-term absence is something that nobody wants to face. Firstly of course, the employee, who is going through either a physical or mental challenge and is being forced to be sidelined from work. And secondly, the employer who is caught between caring for their colleague but also trying to run a business at full strength. So what can HR teams and employers do to manage this?

Well to talk to us about this we’re joined by two of our very own leading experts and HR Consultants in this area, Liam Barton and Joe Thompson.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 146 – Let’s Talk Protected Disclosures

Protected disclosures, whistleblowing – a topic that’s been on the minds and to-do list for HR teams and employers for quite some time now, but something that many are still struggling with. And with further deadlines looming, are you and your organisation up-to-speed on what to do, how to do it, and when to do it?

Well to help you assess where you stand, and what you need to do next, we’re delighted to chat all about protected disclosures, with David McCauley, Senior Associate at McCann Fitzgerald.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 145 – Let’s Talk Social Media & Work

Social media and work – two things, that although we don’t like to admit it, probably take up the vast majority of our time, respectively. But how does work and social media intersect? It’s something that features in the headlines, and also features in the minds of employers. Are there things you cannot do, and there times you cannot do it, or is there a line between the two?

To talk to us about this today, we’re delighted to be joined by one of Ireland’s leading employment lawyers and experts in this area, Founder & Principal at Crushell & Co, the brilliant Barry Crushell.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 144 – Christmas Party Time!

Company policies are for life, not just for Christmas!

Christmas parties – the highlight of the corporate calendar, the standout celebration for the social club, and a chance to let the hair down with your nearest and dearest colleagues. But if things go wrong, Christmas parties can ruin the spirit of the event, become a holiday headache for HR teams and leave a sour taste at the table. So what can go wrong, how can we prevent it, and how can we make sure to keep the Christmas spirit safely alive?

To talk to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by Aisling Parkinson, Partner, in the Employment, Immigration and Reward division at Lewis Silkin.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 143 – Let’s Talk GDPR & HR

Three in four Irish HR departments are unknowingly breaching GDPR. There’s a startling void between HR professionals’ confidence in their GDPR compliance and actual adherence to the regulation. And those of you who have crossed paths with the wrong side of GDPR may agree, GDPR is certainly not something to be ignored!

So to talk to us about this today, the findings of HR locker’s research and what we can do to remain compliant, we’re delighted to be joined by Crystel Rynne, COO at HRLocker.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 142 – HR Horror Stories

In this special Halloween-themed episode, we guide you through the graveyard of bad HR practices, creepy cases, and hair-raising HR challenges that have sent shivers down the spines of HR professionals. Ghastly grievances, wicked workplaces, and spooky stories from our experiences in the world of work.

And to join us around the fire we’re delighted to be joined Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 141 – New Workplace Rules & Norms

Flexible working, sick pay, protected disclosures, retention, talent attraction, compliance – there’s a lot to think about when it comes to HR policies. Whether you want to simply be compliant with legislation, or you want to have best-in-class policies, many employers have different strategies, ideas and also challenges when it comes to the rules and norms they want to have in their workplace. So what are the new rules, the new norms, and what are employers doing about them?

To talk to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by Judith Curran, Counsel in the Employment & Benefits team at Mason Hayes & Curran.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 140 – World Menopause Day: Policies & Supports

In Ireland, around 570,000 women are currently in the menopausal or perimenopausal stage, with approximately 350,000 of these women still in paid employment. So what can we do to support these women, and does the level effort being put in by Irish companies match the scale of support needed?

Thankfully, some companies are doing some great work on this. And we’re delighted to be joined by Barry Holmes, Director of Human Resources at the Royal College of Surgeons to tell us about their award-winning menopause policy.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 139 – Are your policies up-to-date?

It’s time to talk about updating organisation policies again – not just because we love it, but because it’s been a busy year for legislative changes, with more coming on the horizon too. It can be challenging to know what to update, when to update, and how to do it, so by popular demand, we’re having another conversation on a topic that’s in the minds of many HR teams and organisations now.

And to talk to us about this, who better to bring back than Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 138 – How to manage: Suspensions

Although it’s something that HR professionals and leaders won’t need to do that often, suspending employees is something that many of us will face over the course of our careers, and is something that simply must be understood, to reduce the risks involved. There have also been significant developments and various cases in recent years, highlighting the complexity of this HR challenge.

But we’re in luck, as we have someone who can guide us through these cases, key takeaways, and considerations, as we’re joined again by Anne Lyne, a partner with the Employment team at Hayes solicitors, on episode 138 of The HR Room Podcast.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 137 – Drink, Drugs, Disclosures & Disability

Drugs, alcohol and addiction are very serious issues. Many people face varying levels of challenges when it comes to these topics, and unfortunately, sometimes the challenges even affect their livelihood and the workplace. And with such serious issues being so prevalent, it’s a huge challenge for employers to deal with these things with compliance, correct procedures, and care. But how exactly do we do that?

In a very interesting and insightful discussion, we’re joined by Jennifer Cashman, Partner and Head of Employment at RDJ Solicitors, on episode 137 of The HR Room Podcast.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 136 – PwC’s Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2023

This September, PwC released its Irish 2023 Hopes and Fears Workforce survey which details the attitudes and behaviours of 1,000 Irish workers and nearly 54,000 global workers in 46 countries.

The survey has again showcased some interesting results, and after our great chat on this very podcast about last year’s survey, we simply had to bring back Louise Shannon, Senior Manager, Reward & Workforce Strategy, at PwC Ireland to chat to us about this year’s survey.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 135 – Redundancies: Communication & Support

In the second episode of our two part mini-series on redundancies, and following on from a terrific insight in to the law and process governing this topic, we’re delighted to now take a look at what you could call, the softer side of redundancies, as we explore the communication and support side of this tough challenge.

And to speak to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined by a familiar face, Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 134 – Redundancies: The Law & The Process

Unfortunately, redundancies have been a regular feature of the Irish landscape and media coverage in recent years. And managing redundancies is something that many HR teams and organisations may have to face, at some scale and at some point in their working lives. But when it comes to the law and the process surrounding redundancies, what are some of the key things we should look out for, what are the foundations of the law and process, and how do we make sure we manage these processes effectively for all involved?

To answer these questions and many more, we’re delighted to be joined by one of Ireland’s leading employment lawyers and experts in this area, Founder & Principal at Crushell & Co, Barry Crushell.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 133 – Workplace Investigations: Reviewing & Reporting

As we know, workplace investigations take time, are complex, and require focus throughout. And the stage which arguably requires the most clarity and focus is the reviewing and reporting stage. So how do we review the evidence and report accordingly, and just how important is it to do so clearly and correctly?

To answer these questions and many more, we’re delighted to be joined by Rebecca Bowman, Workplace Investigator here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 132 – How to manage: Workplace Investigations

The demand for investigations in the workplace is constantly growing. Misconduct is taking place in workplaces, leaving HR teams and organisations with the task of tackling a workplace investigation. But given the time, complexity and seriousness of the issues, this is a big challenge for all involved. So how do you do it, what should you look out for, and where should you go for help?

To answer this question and many more, we’re joined again by Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 131 – Dignity At Work: Policies & Procedures​

Workplace policies and procedures can range from token legally-compliant paragraphs in a handbook, right up to things that can transform workplace culture. So when it comes to dignity at work policies, what can we do to ensure that our policies are embedded in our organisations, and support our employees through these tough situations?

To answer this question and many more, we’re delighted to be joined again by Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 130 – How to manage: Workplace Harassment & Sexual Harassment

We’ve all seen countless headlines about harassment at work, and have also seen many reports on the prevalence of harassment and sexual harassment in Irish workplaces. So although we’ve also seen progress in legislation and the arrival of new codes of practice, why is this still a problem, and what can we do to tackle it?

And to talk to us about this, we’re delighted to be joined again for the second week in a row, by Joe Thompson, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 129 – How to manage: Workplace Bullying

A 2020 report found that 1.7m workdays are lost in Ireland annually because of bullying, and also highlighted that one in 10 employees in Ireland have experience of being bullied. With bullying being such a widespread and serious problem for organisations and employees alike, what can HR teams do to tackle this?

On episode 129 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by our very own Joe Thompson, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 128 – Unbossing: Reimagining Performance Management

“Our new approach is people focused rather than system focused, where performance ratings are a thing of the past.” A quote from, Novartis, a global healthcare company with significant operations here in Ireland, who have reimagined their decades-old approach to performance management. The company is successfully fuelling a scientific and entrepreneurial spirit across the company through an inspired, curious, and “unbossed” culture.

On episode 128 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by Alex Hogarty, Global Program Lead of Performance Management at Novartis.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 127 – People, Performance & Potential

How important is the role of the leader in driving business performance and promoting a culture where people feel safe, secure and motivated? It’s a question that has had much debate and much discussion over the years, with many leaders still wondering what’s best for them and their people?

Well, the good news is, we’re joined by someone on episode 127 of The HR Room Podcast, who gives us some guidance and advice on this topic – Síle Walsh, Coach, Lecturer, Consultant and all-round specialist in inclusive leadership and performance.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 126 – Data-driven people strategy: Unlocking Analytics

HR skills development, HR technology and analytics, and HR aligning to business strategy are all common consistent challenges that many of us will either have heard, seen, or felt. But at its core, is tackling people analytics a secret weapon for many HR professionals? Analytics is not a new arrival into the world of work, but is it part of your people strategy yet?

On episode 126 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by Brian Slattery, Co Founder and CEO of the award-winning analytics platform, Wrky.com.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 125 – High Performance & Changing Fields, with Devin Toner

How a business performs, is almost always dependent on how their people perform. And whether it’s driving productivity, manging underperformance, retaining your high performers, or building strategies and environments where the organisation and it’s people thrive, HR teams and leaders know all too well how substantial but important area of business is.

And on episode 125 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by someone who is no stranger to high performance both in the sporting and corporate world, former professional rugby player, Leinster’s most capped player, multiple Six Nations winner with Ireland, and now Head of Partnerships at Fairstone Asset Management & askpaul, the brilliant Devin Toner.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 124 – Managing Underperformance

Across the month of July, we’ll be talking all things performance management, looking at best practices, employer stories, new approaches and common challenges. So to round off June, and set us up for next month, we’re going to discuss one of the most obvious performance challenges for HR teams and employers everywhere, managing underperformance. How do we manage an employee who is performing poorly, how can we help, what are our obligations, and what are our options?

And to talk to us about this on episode 124 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 123 – Case Studies: Redundancies

Managing a redundancy process is a challenge for any HR professional. In addition to the unfortunate circumstances and effects it may have on a colleagues livelihood, the law and process around redundancies, can also add complexity to a process that’s already far from enjoyable. However, it is a process that many of us will have to face, and is also grabbing many of the headlines across Ireland in recent months.

And to take a closer look at this topic on episode 123 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined again by Adrian Twomey, Partner at Jacob & Twomey Solicitors.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 122 – Show Me The Money: EU Pay Transparency Directive

At the end of March 2023, the European Parliament adopted the EU Pay Transparency Directive which will come into force on 6 June 2023, giving EU member states a deadline of 7 June 2026 to transpose its provisions into their national laws. But what does it mean, what are the details, and what can we do now to prepare?

And to talk to us about this on episode 122 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by Siobhra Rush, Partner and Head of the Dublin Office at Lewis Silkin.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 121 – What’s working for working parents?

Are you listening to this podcast on the way to pick up the kids from school? Are you catching up on your podcasts while on maternity, paternity or parental leave? Are you tuning in because you need help in balancing parenting life and work, especially with summer coming up? Or are you an employer who simply wants to make sure their employees are happy and productive? Well, good news – this is the episode for you!

On episode 121 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by one of the Co-Founders of Platform55, Tracy Gunn, to discuss what’s working for working parents, and how employers and HR teams can support these employees. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 120 – Crafting & Implementing Domestic Violence Policies

As you know, this month, we’ve spoken all about domestic violence, employer obligations, spotting the signs, and everything in between. But with new legislation on it’s way, and to round off our conversations for this month, we’re now chatting in detail about one of the key foundations for any topic, crafting and implementing the policy. 

On episode 120 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined today by one of the companies in Ireland who are leading the way in crafting and implementing domestic violence policies, as we welcome Barry Holmes, Director of Human Resources at the Royal College of Surgeons.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 119 – Domestic Violence: Special Episode with Women’s Aid 

As many of you will know, Women’s Aid is a national organisation here in Ireland who work to prevent and address the impact of domestic violence and abuse by advocating, influencing, training, significant campaigning and providing frontline services. So, we simply could not go through this month without hearing about the work they do, and the advice they can give for employers and HR teams here in Ireland.

So, you guessed it, on episode 119 of The HR Room Podcast we’re delighted to be joined by one of the leading voices on domestic violence in Ireland, and the CEO of Women’s Aid, Sarah Benson.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 118 – Domestic Violence Legislation For Employers

In response to last week’s conversation on the podcast, about the scope of the Work Life Balance Act, where we touched on the core elements of the upcoming legislation including the updates on domestic violence leave, we’re now doing a deep dive in to the topic of domestic violence and the legislation surrounding it, as we know it’s an important and sensitive topic that many of you want to know more about it.

And also following on from last week, we’re joined by our very own Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR, again!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 117 – Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023

The first provisions of the Work Life Balance Act are expected to be in place within a matter of weeks, now that the bill has passed all stages of the Oireachtas. But what does this mean for employers?

To answer this questions and many more, on episode 117 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by our very own Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 116 – Inclusive Wellbeing

As we’ve spoken about over the last number of weeks on this podcast, the area of wellbeing is far-reaching and thankfully is developing hugely over time. Although there has been progress, in practice, is workplace wellbeing truly fit-for-purpose, accessible, and inclusive for all?

On episode 116 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by an Award winning Business Psychologist, Keynote Speaker, Media Contributor and Wellbeing Specialist, who has been interviewed by Vogue, The Guardian and Newsweek, the brilliant Lee Chambers.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 115 – Award winning wellbeing strategies

Although wellbeing as a priority and topic, is by no means a new arrival onto the HR to-do list, the depth and breadth of the topic continues to develop over time, with many employers struggling to build, and implement, effective and embedded wellbeing strategies.

However, some employers are seeing great success in their wellbeing journey. On episode 115 of The HR Room Podcast we speak to Sharon Daly, Programme Manager of Health & Wellbeing at Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail, who are this year’s Embedding A Culture of Workplace Wellbeing large employer winner at the CIPD Ireland HR Awards.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 114 – Protecting wellbeing in retail

Circle K, is Ireland’s leading forecourt and convenience retailer, with over 2,300 employees, and a retail network made up of over 420 stations across the island of Ireland. Circle K recently conducted research to highlight the issue of unacceptable customer behaviour towards its own staff as well as employees in other retail settings and the findings set Circle K on a journey to protect their employees wellbeing in a strategic and effective manner.

On episode 114 of the HR Room Podcast, we take a closer look at the results of this research, and share insights into the work Circle K is now planning and implementing, joined by Áine Griallais, HR & HSE Director at Circle K Ireland.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 113 – Financial Wellbeing 

The Laya Wellbeing Index for 2022 found that 4 of the top 5 causes of employee anxiety and stress related to financial concerns. And with the cost-of-living crisis, inflation and general money worries facing a lot of people in Ireland, it’s easy to understand why. But what can organisations do to relieve some of these stressors, and why should they do it?

On episode 113 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by one of Ireland’s leading finance experts, CEO of Fairstone and founder of AskPaul, Paul Merriman.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 112 – Total Wellness

With the cost of living crisis, and the war for talent both still raging on, many employers are still trying to find the balance between pay, benefits, wellbeing and everything else, in the hopes of retaining and attracting talent. 

On episode 112 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss how holistic wellbeing strategies provide the best results for organisations, with Louise Shannon, Senior Manager, Reward & Workforce Strategy, at PwC Ireland. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 111 – Anti-Racism In The Workplace

According to latest figures, reports of discrimination at work quadrupled last year. So unfortunately, despite positive action, preventative policies, and detailed legislation, racism is still a very live issue in Irish workplaces.

On episode 111 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by Director & Founder of the Institute of Antiracism and Black Studies, a lecturer, author, race relations consultant and antiracism specialist, Dr Ebun Joseph, to speak about this topic. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 110 – Employment Permits Bill 2022

In October 2022, a long-awaited piece of legislation, the Employment Permits Bill 2022, was published. This has a far-reaching and important impact for employers, and the immigration and permits systems here in Ireland. So, what’s it all about? 

On episode 110 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be joined by not one but two guests and experts, from the Lewis Silkin Employment, Immigration and Reward division, Linda Hynes and Declan Groarke, to speak about this topic. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 109 – Ageism In The Workplace

On episode 109 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Dr Trudy Corrigan, Assistant Professor at the DCU School of Policy and Practice, and a Research Fellow at DCU Anti-Bullying Centre to discuss the issue of ageism in the workplace.

Have you witnessed ageism in the workplace? Have you experienced it? Are you actively preventing ageism? Make sure to listen to this hugely insightful and important discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 108 – Managing Workplace Discrimination

On episode 108 of the HR Room Podcast, Eoin is joined by Insight HR’s very own Senior HR Consultant, Liam Barton, for an in-depth chat about managing workplace discrimination.

We speak about everything from the law, the prevention, the management of any issues if they do arise, and how everyone plays a part in tackling discrimination in the workplace.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 107 – Case Studies – Workplace Discrimination

On episode 107 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Adrian Twomey of Jacob and Twomey Solicitors for the latest instalment of our #CaseStudies podcasts, where we take a look at the latest employment law cases and share guidance on the key issues. 

This month all of our content will be focused primarily on workplace discrimination and all things related. And in this episode we’ll be following suit, by discussing the recent case of Sarah Adam v Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board, ADJ-00028925. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 106 – Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions 2022

On 16 December 2022, the Government announced the approval of EU Directive on Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions, which includes a range of minimum requirements to protect workers. This brings the Directive into national law in Ireland, which means employers must now be up-to-date, informed and compliant with the latest updates. But fear not, on episode 106 of The HR Room Podcast, that’s exactly what we want to help with!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 105 – Commercially-focused people management

On episode 105 of The HR Room Podcast, in the latest instalment of our C-Suite Series, we’re discussing the link between people and performance, the HR challenges in healthcare, how to connect HR to the organisation’s bottom line, and much more, with the Chief People Officer at the Mater Private Network, Garry McCabe.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 104 – Organisational Architecting

On episode 104 of The HR Room Podcast, in the latest instalment of our C-Suite Series, we’re discussing culture, the ever-growing importance and impact of the people profession, the success story of an Irish business, the topic of organisational architecting and much more with one of the most influential HR leaders here in Ireland, the Chief People Officer at Teamwork, Jeni Brown.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 103 – A Voice At The Table

As many of us have heard and even experienced, it’s been a challenging but rewarding couple of years for HR, with many commenting that the HR agenda has never been stronger, never been more credible, and many are feeling like they finally have a seat at the table. But what good is a seat at the table without a voice at the table – are you being heard in your organisation?

On episode 103 of The HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Julie O’ Sullivan, Head of People Development with Jigsaw Better Business to talk us through this topic, discussing skills, mindset, and much more!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 102 – Employment Law Update 2023

On episode 102 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re bringing you our Employment Law Update 2023. A recent poll we conducted on LinkedIn found that 75% of you feel you need support in keeping up-to-date with employment law this year. And with things like Sick Leave, Protected Disclosures, Gender Pay Gap Reporting, and much more on the watchlist this year, we completely understand why many of you are feeling a little bit overwhelmed! So let us help!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 101 – The People Profession

On episode 101 of the HR Room Podcast, in the latest instalment of our C-Suite Series, we discussed all things HR with one of the most influential HR leaders in the UK, Ireland and beyond, CEO of the CIPD, Peter Cheese. 

A seat at the table, the importance of skills and collaboration, the strategic side to HR, and much more, in this insightful discussion. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 100 – Data-Driven Wellbeing

On episode 100 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re delighted to be marking this milestone by bringing you our C-Suite series, a collection of interviews over the course of this month, covering some of the biggest HR and business topics with some of the top leaders in the world of work.

Today, we’re joined by Rachel Fellowes, Chief Wellbeing Officer at Aon, to discuss the ever-important topic of wellbeing, of course. Wellbeing has always been a leading priority, but are we doing enough, can we do more, and just how vital is employee wellbeing to a company’s success?

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 99 – New Year’s Resolutions

On episode 99 of the HR Room Podcast, we wanted to keep in the spirit of New Year’s by chatting through New Year’s Resolutions for HR professionals, and help you start your year on the right foot, setting you up for success in 2023!

Join Mary Cullen, Megan Power, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion. 

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 98 – Insight HR’s Selection Box: Best of 2022

On episode 98 of the HR Room Podcast, we took some of the best bits from the year that was, and now want to share with you another selection box of sorts, to add to your Christmas collection.

Join Mary Cullen, our range of guests, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this Christmas collection!

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 97 – Let’s Talk Company Culture

On episode 97 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Scott McInnes (Founder at Inspiring Change, and host of the Building Better Cultures Podcast) to dig deeper into the topic of company cultures; what makes great company cultures, how can you drive great culture, and just how powerful a great company culture can be!

Join Mary Cullen,Scott McInnes, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 96 – Migraine In The Workplace

On episode 96 of the HR Room Podcast, we take a closer look at the issue of migraine in the workplace with Linda Crosbie, Regional Development Officer (Workplaces) at Migraine Ireland. We chat about why this is a lot more than just a HR headache, and how employers can help with a condition that effects thousands of Irish workers. 

Join Mary Cullen, Linda Crosbie, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 95- Managing Redundancies

On episode 95 of the HR Room Podcast, we take a closer look at the challenge of redundancy management with one of the leading experts in Ireland in this area, Breda O’Malley, Partner and Head of the Employment Law team at Hayes solicitors LLP, and accredited mediator.

Join Mary Cullen, Breda O’ Malley, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 94 – Disability Inclusion In The Workplace

On episode 94 of the HR Room Podcast, we mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities (which takes place on December 3rd) by taking a closer look at the topic of disability inclusion in the workplace and digging deeper into what organisations can do to be truly inclusive for those with disabilities, with Christabelle Feeney, Director at Employers For Change.

Join Mary Cullen, Christabelle Feeney, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 93- The Future Of HR

On episode 93 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Aisling Campbell, Human Resources Director at Accenture Ireland, who shares her advice on how HR teams and organisations can stay ahead of the curve and be ready to tackle future challenges in HR and the world of work.

Join Mary Cullen, Aisling Campbell, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 92 – Pay & Reward Outlook 2023

On episode 92 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Rewards Consultant and all-round pay & reward expert, Oliver Coakley, to discuss his pay & reward outlook for 2023. With external challenges affecting business, and internal employee priorities changing, it’s become an area that many HR professionals and teams are struggling to grasp, so we share some insights from one of the best in the business!

Join Mary Cullen, Oliver Coakley, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 91 – Quiet Quitting

On episode 91 of the HR Room Podcast, we take a closer look at the latest phrase and workplace trend of ‘quiet quitting’ with Melrona Kirrane, Associate Professor of Organisational Psychology at DCU. Although this seems to be the newest buzzword in the HR world, we discuss why it is certainly more than just a passing trend, and something which HR teams and organisations should take very seriously. 

Join Mary Cullen, Melrona Kirrane, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 90 – Sickness in the workplace

On episode 90 of the HR Room Podcast, as the winter illness season approaches, we’re joined by Karen Killalea, Partner and Head of Employment at Maples Group Ireland to discuss sickness in the workplace, how the legislation has developed, the key guidance for employers, and the policies HR teams must put in place to manage this effectively. 

Join Mary Cullen, Karen Killalea, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 89 – Sexual harassment in the workplace

On episode 89 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by employment law expert and contributor to the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s Sexual Harassment and Abuse in the Workplace report, Máille Brady Bates, to discuss how to manage and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Máille Brady Bates, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 88 – The cost of toxic cultures

On episode 88 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Julie O’ Sullivan, Head of People Development at Jigsaw Better Business, to discuss how toxic workplace cultures are not just bad for people, but bad for business.

Join Mary Cullen, Julie O’ Sullivan, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 87 – Laya Workplace Wellbeing Index Results

On episode 87 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Sinead Proos, Head of Health & Wellbeing at Laya Healthcare, to celebrate World Mental Health Day by discussing the results of Laya’s Workplace Wellbeing Index 2022, based on one of Ireland’s largest ever research studies on this subject. Read the full report from Laya, here!

Join Mary Cullen, Sinead Proos, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 86 – Let’s Talk Line Managers

On episode 86 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss the role of line managers and the fresh challenges they are facing in managing remote and hybrid teams. We discuss how HR teams and organisations can support line managers to achieve continued success.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 85 – Tips & Gratuities Legislation

On episode 85 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Siobhán Lafferty, Senior Associate at Reddy Charlton, to discuss the new legislation concerning tips & gratuities here in Ireland. We give tips on tips, service charges, compliance, and culture!

Join Mary Cullen, Siobhán Lafferty, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 84 – #CaseStudies Suspension

On episode 84 of the HR Room Podcast, we bring you the latest instalment of our Case Studies podcast specials, where we take a closer look at some of the cases that pertain to employment law, HR and the world of work. The case we’re speaking about today concerns the well-documented suspension of a teacher. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 83 – #CaseStudies Discriminatory Dismissal

On episode 83 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Adrian Twomey of Jacob and Twomey Solicitors for the latest instalment of our #CaseStudies podcasts, where we take a look at the latest employment law cases and share guidance on the key issues. Today, we’re discussing a case which covers discriminatory dismissal, amongst other things!

Join Mary Cullen, Adrian Twomey, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 82 – Lidl’s people-centric policies

On episode 82 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Denise White-Hughes, Employee Relations Director at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland to discuss some of the progressive, people-focused policies that their team has implemented in recent years.

Join Mary Cullen, Denise White-Hughes, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 81 – Menopause in the workplace

On episode 81 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Sinead Morgan, Senior Associate on the Employment Team at RDJ, to discuss menopause in the workplace through the lens of employment law, policies, and HR obligations.

Join Mary Cullen, Sinead Morgan, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 80 – The Employee Experience

On episode 80 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Fania Stoney (CEO & Co-Founder of Healthy Place to Work® Ireland) to talk about the results of a survey conducted by Great Place to Work® and Johns Hopkins University on employee well-being and the key insights in promoting employee well being.

Join Mary Cullen, Fania Stoney, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 79 – How To Calculate Your Gender Pay Gap

On episode 79 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Mary Connaughton (Director of CIPD Ireland) to talk about the gender pay gap in Ireland and how the Gender Pay Gap Information Act 2021 is helping to tackle this issue.

Join Mary Cullen, Mary Connaughton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 78 – Redesigning Work For Digital Wellness

On episode 78 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Chris Flack (Co-Founder at UnPlug) to talk about digital wellness at work, a topic more important now than ever before in a time of technological advances and increased digitization of the workplace when the lines between work and non-work are blurring.

Join Mary Cullen, Chris Flack, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 77 – A Guide To Workplace Investigation Reports

On episode 77 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Insight HR’s Rebecca Bowman to talk about the final step in the workplace investigations process: the workplace investigation report.

Join Mary Cullen, Rebecca Bowman, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 76 – Workplace Investigations: Reviewing the evidence

On episode 76 of the HR Room Podcast, following on from our previous episode, we’re again joined by Insight HR’s Liam Barton to talk about the next aspect of workplace investigations: how to review the evidence.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 75 – Conducting a workplace investigation

On episode 75 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Insight HR’s Liam Barton, for the first episode in our Workplace Investigations mini-series, in which we talk about conducting a workplace investigation.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 74 – Dignity At Work

On episode 74 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Insight HR’s Laura Barry to talk about how to encourage and maintain dignity and work, including difficult issues of bullying and harassment.

Join Mary Cullen, Laura Barry, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 73 – Resignations, Rewards, & Rising Inflation

On episode 73 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Laura Flynn, Partner and Head of EY’s People Advisory Services, to talk about The EY 2022 Work Reimagined Survey. The survey reveals insights from more than 17,000 employees and 1,575 employers across 22 countries and 26 industries.

Join Mary Cullen, Laura Flynn, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 72 – PRIDE, Progress and Policies

On episode 72 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Shane O’Brien to talk about the progress made so far by employers in supporting their employees and the LGBTQ+ community at large through their support, policies, and actions.

Join Mary Cullen, Shane O’ Brien, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 71 – Reference Checking – HR’s Hidden Gem

On episode 71 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Emira Blomberg and Niklas Ekberg from Refapp to examine how a more advanced approach to reference checks can prevent a wide range of HR problems down the line.

Join Mary Cullen, Emira Blomberg, Niklas Ekberg, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 70 – #CaseStudies – Record-Breaking Award Made By WRC

On episode 70 of the HR Room Podcast, the Insight HR team discuss the Workplace Relations Commission’s recent record-breaking award of more than €329,000 for unfair dismissal.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 69 – Building An Inclusive Workplace

On episode 69 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Torunn Dahl (Head of Talent, Learning & Inclusion at Deloitte) to talk about how to create and embed a culture of inclusiveness in the workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Torunn Dahl, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 68 – 98% of HR Professionals Are Burned Out – Why?

On episode 68 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Gillian French, Expert in Residence – Employee Experience at Workvivo, to discuss the very worrying situation of burnout in the HR profession.

Join Mary Cullen, Gillian French, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 67 – Theft In The Workplace – What Do We Do?

On episode 67 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by Marion Galvin, Head of Workplace Investigations at Insight HR to talk about the tricky issue of how to deal with theft in the workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Marion Galvin, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 66 – Managing a disciplinary procedure

On episode 66 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re looking at the tricky issue of how to deal with disciplinary issues in the workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 65 – Developing female talent

On episode 65 of the HR Room Podcast, join us for a practical case study discussion on how to develop female talent with Linda Allen, Head of Talent at the award-winning Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail.

Join Mary Cullen, Linda Allen, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 64 – Effects and challenges of hybrid working

On episode 64 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re discussing important new research into the effects & challenges posed by remote & hybrid working. The research has been published by Dr. Tatiana Andreeva and Dr. Paola Zappa from the Maynooth University School of Business and we’re delighted to have them on the show to discuss their findings.

Join Mary Cullen, Dr Tatiana Anrdeeva, Dr. Paola Zappa, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 63 – Whistleblowing law – what changes are coming?

On episode 63 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss whistleblower protections and what looks set to change in the Protected Disclosures Act, with Elizabeth Ryan of Mason Hayes & Curran Solicitors.

Join Mary Cullen, Elizabeth Ryan, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 62 – A Guide To Workplace Grievances

On episode 62 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re examining exactly what are workplace grievances, what causes them, and how best to handle them. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 61 – Pension Auto-Enrolment

On episode 61 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re discussing a topic that’s been on the mind of employees around Ireland in recent weeks, pension auto-enrolment. What changes are coming, and what does this mean for employers?

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 60 – The 4 Day Work Week

On episode 60 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by 4 Day Week Global’s CEO, Joe O’ Connor, who tells us what’s involved and how employers can successfully implement this change in their workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Joe O’ Connor, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 59 – Filling The Skills Gaps

On episode 59 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re joined by people analytics expert Simon Haines from Simply Get Results, sharing guidance for employers on how to maintain clarity on the skills of their workforce and on the skills required in the future.

Join Mary Cullen, Simon Haines, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 58 – How To Eliminate Racism In The Workplace

On episode 58 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re discussing the question of how to eliminate racism in the workplace, with Elizabeth Adeyemo. Elizabeth is part of the Research & Content team at inclusio, an Irish, science-based, data-led diversity and inclusion platform. The software is designed to measure and enhance individual sense of belonging.

Join Mary Cullen, Elizabeth Adeyemo, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 57 – Employee Reward & Benefits Frameworks

On episode 57 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re examining the current reward & benefits challenges that face employers in Ireland. To discuss these issues and to talk about reward frameworks you can adopt in your business, we’re joined by Oliver Coakley, Director of Coakley Actuarial – Rewards Consulting.

Join Mary Cullen, Oliver Coakley, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 56 – International Women’s Day

On episode 56 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day with inspirational business founder, social entrepreneur, designer, and advocate for equality, Sonya Lennon.

Join Mary Cullen, Sonya Lennon, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 55 – Leadership at every level

On episode 55 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Joanne Hession (leadership expert and Founder of LIFT Ireland) about all things leadership, and how to develop leaders at all levels of Irish society.

Join Mary Cullen, Joanne Hession, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 54 – Is it time to update your HR policies?

On episode 54 of the HR Room Podcast, Mary Cullen and Laura Barry from the Insight HR team chat about why, when, and how HR teams should update their organisation’s HR policies.

Join Mary Cullen, Laura Barry, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 53 – The Great Re-Adjustment (Managing the return)

On episode 53 of the HR Room Podcast, we chat to Rowena Hennigan about how to handle the ‘Great Re-Adjustment’ as employers try to decide on the right workplace balance for their employees as pandemic restrictions ease.

Join Mary Cullen, Rowena Hennigan, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 52 – Guidance on remote working

On episode 52 of the HR Room Podcast, the Insight HR team discuss the hot topic of remote working and, particularly, the legislative changes that may be coming down the line in the near future.

Join Mary Cullen,Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 51 – Bullying in the workplace

On episode 51 of the HR Room Podcast, the Insight HR team discuss how to prevent and handle bullying in the workplace. We’re joined by Irish workplace mediation expert, Ian Moore.

Join Mary Cullen, Ian Moore, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 50 – A Guide To Workplace Investigations

On episode 50 of the HR Room Podcast, Mary Cullen & Liam Barton from the Insight HR team examine the challenging area of workplace investigations. They share their insights and advice on when, why, and how to conduct workplace investigations in the right way.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 49 – Sick Pay & Sick Leave

On episode 49 of the HR Room Podcast, Mary Cullen & Liam Barton from the Insight HR team examine the challenging area of sick leave and sick pay in Ireland, including current issues, employer obligations, as well as new legislation coming down the line.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 48 – Employment Law Update 2022

On episode 48 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak with Adrian Twomey, Partner at Jacob and Twomey Solicitors about what’s been happening and what changes have occurred in the area of Irish employment law.

Join Mary Cullen, Adrian Twomey, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 47 – What’s next in employee engagement? 

On episode 47 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak with John Goulding, CEO of the employee communication platform, Workvivo, about what employee engagement looks like in 2022 and beyond!

Join Mary Cullen, John Goulding, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 46 – Scaling and hiring remotely 

On episode 46 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak with Ruairi Conroy, Site Lead for Diligent’s Galway site, about how he and the team drove a successful recruitment, onboarding and culture campaign against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Join Mary Cullen, Ruairi Conroy, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 45 – Ageism in the workplace

On episode 45 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak with Melanie Steinhardt from Age Action, about the importance of understanding and recognising ageism, and discuss age-friendly practices. 

Join Mary Cullen, Melanie Steinhardt, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 44 – How to be an inclusive employer

On episode 44 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak with Jeanne McDonagh (CEO of the Open Doors Initiative) about how to be an inclusive employer.

Join Mary Cullen, Jeanne McDonagh, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 43 – The Year In Review

On episode 43 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Mary Cullen & Liam Barton from the Insight HR team, to reflect on the HR issues that shaped 2021 and then look towards 2022 to see what’s coming down the line.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and your host, Eoin Lyons, in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 42 – Labour Market Outlook 2022

On episode 42 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Donal O’ Donoghue, President of the National Recruitment Federation & Managing Director at Sanderson about the outlook for the Irish labour market in 2022.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Donal O’ Donoghue in this insightful discussion.

Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or directly here on our website, via the ‘listen now’ button below!

Episode 41 – Work From Anywhere

On episode 41 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to John Lee, a leading advocate of remote working, an expert on the tax and employment law obligations of working from anywhere, and CEO & Co-Founder of Work From Anywhere.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and John Lee in this insightful discussion.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work.

Episode 40 – Brutality & kindness in the workplace

On episode 40 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Anna Pinkerton, the UK’s leading expert in burnout prevention and trauma recovery, about the importance of kindness and companionability in the workplace.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Anna Pinkerton in this insightful discussion.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work.

Episode 39 – A step-by-step workplace wellbeing strategy

On episode 39 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Brian Crooke (Founder of Workplace Wellbeing Ireland) about how to develop and embed an effective workplace wellbeing strategy for 2022 and beyond.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Brian Crooke in this insightful discussion.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work.

Episode 38 – Choosing the right learning management system

On episode 38 of the HR Room Podcast, we speak to Chris Elliott from Nvolve about how to choose the right learning management system for you and your organisation.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Chris Elliott in this insightful discussion.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 37 – Crafting  your HR career journey

On episode 37 of the HR Room Podcast, we share advice and guidance on building your HR career, and what a role in the HR profession looks like in today’s world, with Brendan Ahearne, Senior HR Business Partner at Clearstream.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Brendan Ahearne in this practical conversation.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 36 – The business case for HR technology

On episode 36 of the HR Room podcast, we discuss technology, analytics and skills that help HR teams stand out from the rest, with Simon Haines, CEO of Simply Get Results.

Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons and Simon Haines in this practical conversation, and make sure to download the “Winning Skills Advantage” report featured in the podcast!

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 35 – Leading through uncertainty

On episode 35 of the HR Room Podcast, we have a hugely insightful discussion with Dave Kirwan (Managing Director at Bord Gais Energy), about the challenges, learnings and opportunities faced during the Covid-19 pandemic. Join Mary Cullen, Eoin Lyons, and Dave Kirwan in this fantastic conversation. 

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 34 – The Future Of Work

On episode 34 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss the future of work, and what it means for HR teams and organisations everywhere. Join Mary Cullen, Niall Eyre and Eoin Lyons as they discuss this timely topic.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 33 – The Great Resignation

On episode 33 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss the movement in the jobs market, what some of the biggest companies in the world are doing with remote working, and the challenges for HR teams in this time of change. Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Eoin Lyons as they discuss this timely topic.

This is part of our Back In Business series, where we discuss the key topics and challenges organisations are facing in the new world of work. 

Episode 32 – How to address a failing HR initiative (Part of the How to do HR series)

On episode 32 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss how to address a failing HR initiative, and the importance of communication, support, strategy and trust in the rollout of any HR initiative. Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they discuss this HR challenge. 

This is part two in our two-part series on HR initiatives. If you missed it, check out part one below!

Episode 31 – How to prevent your HR initiative from failing (Part of the How to do HR series)

On episode 31 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss HR initiatives, and the role of leadership, communication, change management and much more in the effective implementation of a project.  Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they discuss this HR challenge. 

This is part one in our two-part series on HR initiatives. Stay tuned for part two next week!

Episode 30 – How to address a toxic workplace culture (Part of the How to do HR series)

On episode 30 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss how to address a toxic workplace culture and the role of HR, business leaders and employees in developing a healthy workplace culture . Join Mary Cullen, Olivia Ormonde and Sarah Maher as they discuss this ever-relevant topic. 

This is part two in our two-part series on toxic workplace cultures. If you missed it, check out part one below!

Episode 29 – How to PREVENT a Toxic Workplace Culture (Part of the How to do HR series)

On episode 29 of the HR Room Podcast, we discuss how to identify a toxic workplace culture and how HR can help to prevent one from forming. Join Mary Cullen, Olivia Ormonde and Sarah Maher as they discuss this ever-relevant topic. 

This is part one in our two-part series on toxic workplace cultures. Be sure to join us next week to learn how to address such a culture should one exist in your business.

Episode 28 – How to ADDRESS Poor Performance (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 28 of the HR Room Podcast is the second episode in our two-part series on poor performance in the workplace. In this episode, Mary Cullen and Laura Barry discuss how HR can help to address issues arising from poor performance, efficiently and effectively.    

In next week’s episode, Mary Cullen and Olivia Ormonde will be analysing how HR can put in place steps to help prevent a toxic workplace culture forming. Don’t miss it! 

Episode 27 – How to PREVENT Poor Performance (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 27 of the HR Room Podcast falls under the ‘How to do HR’ banner, and is the first in our two-part series on poor performance. In this episode, Mary Cullen and Laura Barry discuss how HR can help to prevent against poor performance having a negative impact on the workplace.   

Be sure to tune in to next week’s episode, in which we will be discussing how to actually address poor performance. 

Episode 26 – How to ADDRESS a Claim of Unfair Dismissal (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 26 of the HR Room Podcast falls under the ‘How to do HR’ banner, and is the second in our two-part series on unfair dismissals. In this episode, Mary Cullen and Liam Barton discuss the steps HR should take when it comes to addressing a claim of unfair dismissal.

If you haven’t caught the first episode in this two-part series, be sure to do so now as it contains top tips for helping to prevent a claim of unfair dismissal. 

Episode 25 – How to PREVENT a Claim of Unfair Dismissal (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 25 of the HR Room Podcast falls under the ‘How to do HR’ banner, and is the first in our two-part series on unfair dismissals. In this episode, Mary Cullen and Liam Barton discuss how HR can put in place steps to safeguard against a claim of unfair dismissal.  Catch the episode right now on your favourite player or here on our site!  

Be sure to tune in to next week’s episode, during which we will be discussing how to actually address a claim of unfair dismissal. You don’t want to miss it.

Episode 24 – Workplace Taboos: The Menopause Maze with Nicola Wolfe of the Menopause Maze programme

On Episode 24 of the HR Room podcast, we’re going to be dissecting an area that in 2021 still feels like a taboo subject – the matter of menopause in the workplace. We are joined by Nicola Wolfe, co-founder of Wolfeimprove, an Irish Company that specialises in individual and organisational development and improvement. Nicola is a Certified Mental Health & Wellbeing Practitioner, and last year founded The Menopause Maze Programme, designed to offer support and coaching to women as they navigate this complex time in their lives.

Huge thanks to Nicola for sharing her knowledge with us! 

Episode 23 – How to ADDRESS a Claim of Workplace Discrimination (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 23 of the HR Room podcast falls under the ‘How to do HR’ banner and is the second in our two-part series on workplace discrimination. Join Mary Cullen and Liam Barton as they discuss the steps HR should take to address discrimination in the workplace.

Not caught the first one yet? Be sure to check it out below first!

Episode 22 – How to PREVENT Discrimination in the Workplace (Part of the How to do HR series)

Episode 22 of the HR Room podcast falls under the ‘How to do HR’ banner and is the first in our two-part series on workplace discrimination.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they discuss the nine grounds by which it is illegal to discriminate against someone in the workplace and what steps HR can take to help prevent this from happening.

Episode 21 – Remote Working & Virtual Leadership with Dr Ryne Sherman, Chief Science Officer at Hogan Assessments

Remote working looks set to be here to stay, in some way, shape or form. But what exactly does this mean for leadership and management teams? On Episode 21 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re going to be discussing this area in further detail with Dr Ryne Sherman, Chief Science Officer of Hogan Assessment Systems, where Ryne works with top organizations to select the best business leaders and CEOs by leveraging personality data. 

Joining Ryne are HR Room regulars, Mary Cullen and Sarah Maher.

Episode 20 – Improving Diversity and Inclusion with Vessy Tasheva

On episode 20 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re discussing diversity and inclusion with Vessy Tasheva, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant and Author of How Diversity and Inclusion Leaders can Drive Measurable Results. Vessy was named by Hive Learning as one of 2019’s most influential D&I Leaders globally and as one of the UK’s most influential D&I leaders in 2020. 

Huge thanks to Vessy for sharing her knowledge with us!

Episode 19 – The Ugly Side of HR

On episode 19 of the HR Room Podcast, we are joined by Anne O’Connell, Principal at AOC Solicitors, as we discuss some of the common dangers and pitfalls HR professionals need to be aware of.

With over twenty years of experience working as a solicitor, today Anne specialises in advising both private and public sector companies on employment law issues that are or may become contentious. Thanks for joining us, Anne!

Episode 18 – How to ADDRESS Stress Overload in the Workplace (Part of the How to do HR series)

On episode 18 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re we’re looking at ways you can tackle stress overload in the workplace. This is the second part in our two part series on workplace stress. Access part one (Episode 17 – How to PREVENT Stress Overload in the Workplace) below.

Join Mary Cullen, Laura Barry and Sarah Maher as they discuss this timely topic.

Episode 17 – How to PREVENT stress overload in the workplace 

On episode 17 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re looking at the steps HR can take when it comes to preventing stress overload in the workplace. Join Mary Cullen, Laura Barry and Sarah Maher as they analyse the different types of workplace stress that exist, how to recognise the signs and their top tips for helping to prevent it. 

This is part one of the series How to do HR – Stress Overload in the Workplace.

Episode 16 – Training Managers and Leaders in 2021 with Robert Dunne of Staff Wellbeing Solutions

In episode 16 of the HR Room Podcast, we caught up with Robert Dunne of Staff Wellbeing Solutions to discuss what makes an effective leader in 2021. 

Robert Dunne is an accredited psychotherapist with the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). Robert runs a private therapy practice and has over 25 years’ experience in people and programme management. 

Episode 15 – How to PREVENT bullying in the workplace

On episode 15 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re looking at the steps HR can take to help bully-proof the organisation. This is part one of the series How to do HR – Bullying in the Workplace. Access part two below. 

This episode of the HR Room Podcast is brought to you by Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher.

Episode 14 – How to ADDRESS bullying in the workplace

On episode 14 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re looking at the role of HR when it comes to addressing bullying in the workplace. This is part two of the series How To Do HR – Bullying in the Workplace. Be sure to check out part one (listed above as episode 15) first!

This episode of the HR Room is brought to you by Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher. 

Episode 13 – Imposter Syndrome and the Role of HR with Aoife O’Brien CEO of Happier at Work

On episode 13 of the HR Room Podcast, we’re looking at Imposter Syndrome and the role of HR with Aoife O’Brien, CEO of Happier at Work. Find out about the 5 different types of imposter syndrome – and a simple ABC trick for dealing with it when it crops up.

Huge thanks to Aoife O’Brien, Founder and CEO of Happier at Work, for sharing her knowledge with us!

Episode 12 – Firing your mother (or another family member)

Working with family can be fun and rewarding, but what happens when a disciplinary issue arises?

Unfortunately this is something that many family-run businesses may have to face at some point.

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they unpack those awkward discussions in our latest podcast.

Episode 11 – Safeguarding Frontline Workers with Tony Duffin of the Ana Liffey Drug Project

Episode 11 unpacks a subject which we think is extremely important. Thanks to Tony Duffin, CEO of the Ana Liffey Drug Project, for joining us to discuss the timely topic of how the pandemic has been affecting frontline workers and what employers need to do to support them.

Episode 10 – How to choose the right outsourced HR provider

This is an area that many businesses struggle with, and as there are a lot of HR providers out there, it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. Choosing the right partner for your business can help you free up your in-house resources, remove the burden of HR administration and help to improve the strategic focus of your HR Department.  Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and host Sarah Maher, as they discuss exactly what you should be looking for in a HR partner.

Episode 9 – Improving employee engagement with James Brogan of PepTalk

What exactly does employee engagement mean in 2021? Who is responsible for it in an organisation? These are just some of the conversation points from today’s episode of the HR Room Podcast. 

Huge thanks to our special guest, James Brogan, for joining Mary Cullen and Sarah Maher to discuss this interesting topic.

Episode 8 – Implementing a redundancy process

Implementing a redundancy process can be a complete minefield for employers and HR. Who to select, how to do it, who needs to be notified – these are just some of the questions we’ll be answering on this episode. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton, and host Sarah Maher as they disucss this important topic.

Episode 7 – Employee Wellness in 2021 With Rachael O’Shea, Head of Employee Experience At The Taxback Group

Pre-pandemic, some of the most well-known health and wellbeing strategies were those that put the focus on surface benefits such as beer taps and ping pong tables in the office. But what really matters to employees and to organisations?

Huge thanks to Rachael O’Shea for joining our episode and bringing that famous Rachael energy with her!

Episode 6 – Running a remote workplace investigation

Running any kind of workplace investigation can be frought with difficulties, let alone running one solely online. However, it is possible, and we’ve been doing it for clients all over Ireland throughout the pandemic. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they consider some of the do’s and don’t’s of running a remote investigation.

Episode 5 – Think twice before withdrawing a job offer

On today’s episode of the HR Room Podcast, we’ll be sharing some cautionary advice for when it comes to the recruitment process, and more specifically the final stages. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they share why you should always think twice before withdrawing a job offer. 

Episode 3 – What if my employee refuses to come back to the workplace

As Irish businesses prepare to reopen after a long lockdown that seemed to be endless, there are certain employees who might not feel comfortable going back to work. What can you do about this – and what should you do?

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they discuss this timely topic.

Episode 2 – The danger in managing out an under-performing employee

This episode looks at the tricky subject of managing out an under-performing employee and what employers and HR need to be aware of. 

Join Mary Cullen, Liam Barton and Sarah Maher as they dissect this topic. 

Episode 1 – Welcome to the HR Room Podcast!

 The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that’s right for your business.