In this episode, Emily teams up with Jeff Pietrzak of Work Exceptional to challenge outdated perceptions and offer a fresh, strategic take on the role of HR. With decades of combined experience across industries and business sizes, they’ve witnessed the transformative impact of inviting the right HR leader to the table—whether on a fractional or full-time basis.

Whether it’s external or internal facing branding and efforts, an organization’s story- its vision, mission, values- is the “magic” ingredient behind those that thrive versus merely survive. Even when it comes to being an “employer”, top leadership’s clarity around this unique identity, and commitment to integrating it into their operational fabric- from hire to fire- creates unidentifiable amounts of value through accountability and engagement impacts. 

Emily sits down with story-expert and enthusiast, Erik Eustice, from “Of the Sea”, to discuss the power of story, and how they each help clients get in touch with, and harness this force for their businesses. 

Emily sits down with Heather Giambra from Schröder, Joseph & Associates to have an honest and refreshing conversation about the truth of DEI-related regulations for employers both in relation to what has been required and what is changing (and not) as a result of recent Federal administration change. From reporting obligations, to program review suggestions, and managing "protected class" related claims, we discuss the truth behind what the Federal paradigm shift means, even for private employers, and especially if you are operating a business in New York State , where expectations are not changing and could even contradict those at a Federal level moving forward.

In this final episode of the Small Business Employer spotlight series, Emily talks to Jon Corto, owner and founder of Strive Vending, and former Buffalo Bill. In every way, Jon and his wife Jen, who started Strive Vending in 2011, have great pride for their Buffalo and WNY community, and that translates through how they operate their business as a service provider, as well as employer of over 70 employees locally. Listen to hear how they've maintained this value as a cornerstone of their business as they've evolved as an employer.

In this episode Angie and Emily talk about what it's like to take a passion and turn it into a multi-location operation in the hospitality industry. This includes personal and professional lessons learned along the way about people, patience, and expectations. Listen to Angie share her and Half Baked's story!