What The Hell Just Happened?!

Paul Edwards
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You don’t know what you don’t know. And, when it comes to HR and employment laws, most employers are SHOCKED by what they learn from talking to CEDR CEO and Founder Paul Edwards for just ten minutes. But Paul’s a busy man. And, though he would love nothing more than to talk one-on-one with each and every business owner and manager interested in learning about HR compliance, team management strategies, and how to protect their businesses, there’s only so much Paul to go around. So, we’ve got the next best thing for you - Introducing ”What the Hell Just Happened?” In this new podcast, Paul sits down with a different HR expert from his Solution Center team each week to discuss the burning HR questions facing you now, and to offer expert insights on important HR considerations you didn’t know you didn’t know.

  1. Why Nothing Gets Done...Even When Everyone's Working Hard (The 3-Step System)

    5D AGO

    Why Nothing Gets Done...Even When Everyone's Working Hard (The 3-Step System)

    Your team is busy. You’re busy. Everyone’s working hard. So why does it still feel like nothing’s getting done? In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?, Paul Edwards and CeCe unpack one of the most frustrating realities in growing businesses. The harder everyone works, the more stuck things seem to become. It’s easy to blame burnout. Or staffing. Or motivation. But the real issue is simpler and harder to see. The work is a mess. Not because your team isn’t capable, but because no one has stepped back to actually look at how the work is structured. Who owns what. What’s piling up. What’s getting dropped. And where leaders are quietly becoming the biggest bottleneck in the business. Paul shares the exact moment this clicked for him, standing in front of a wall covered in tasks and realizing two things at once. He was doing too much of the wrong work, and the team had more capacity than anyone thought. From there, the conversation dives into the key shifts that make all the difference: Why your most reliable people are often the most overloaded How being “good at something” can actually hold your business back The hidden cost of jumping between tasks all day And why starting more work is usually the reason nothing gets finished This isn’t about working harder. It’s about finally seeing what’s actually happening inside your business and fixing it. Because once you see it, you can’t unsee it. And that’s when things start to move. Have an HR situation you want Paul to unpack on the show? Record a voice memo and send it to podcast@WTHJustHappened.com. Learn more at WTHJustHappened.com. CEDR HR Solutions is here to help when your HR issues leave you thinking, “What the hell just happened?!” Learn more here: CEDR HR Solutions Or give them a call (866) 414-6056

    27 min
  2. The Hidden Risk of Taking Advice Without Context

    MAR 16

    The Hidden Risk of Taking Advice Without Context

    Most HR problems don’t start with bad intentions — they start with bad advice. In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?, Paul Edwards and CeCe, CEDR’s COO and HR expert, unpack one of the biggest mistakes employers make when dealing with HR issues: going on the internet or an A/I tool and asking a question that requires much more context and nuance to answer, than you would ever imagine. What may sound like a simple problem to you, can quickly become risky when you consider the many variables, including laws, that must be taken into account by an expert before they can give you a correct answer. They discuss how experienced HR professionals approach problem-solving differently, relying on curiosity, investigation, and thorough documentation before taking action. Along the way, they highlight how balancing legal compliance with thoughtful leadership helps businesses resolve issues while protecting both their people and their organization. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why HR advice should never be given without context How investigations and documentation can shape the outcome of a workplace issue Why employment rules can vary significantly depending on the state What experienced HR leaders do before making difficult people decisions How asking better questions leads to smarter and safer HR outcomes If you own a business, manage a team, or handle HR responsibilities alongside everything else you do, this episode will help you approach internal investigations with confidence and a more informed strategic mindset before you act. Have an HR situation you want Paul to unpack on the show? Record a voice memo and send it to podcast@WTHJustHappened.com. Learn more at WTHJustHappened.com. CEDR HR Solutions is here to help when your HR issues leave you thinking, “What the hell just happened?!” Learn more here: CEDR HR Solutions Or give them a call (866) 414-6056

    33 min
  3. The “No Reason” Breakup: You Just Created a Lawsuit

    FEB 16

    The “No Reason” Breakup: You Just Created a Lawsuit

    Termination Without a Reason: Why Lawyers Love It, and How Smart Employers Protect Themselves Many business owners believe “at-will employment” means that when firing someone, not giving a reason is more protective than giving one. In this episode, Paul Edwards and Jennie (Director of Compliance at CEDR HR Solutions and former employment attorney) dismantle that myth and explain why “no reason given” can be one of the fastest ways to invite legal trouble. They break down real-world termination mistakes, why vague or abrupt firings often push employees straight to a lawyer, and how even legitimate issues (like tardiness or performance) can start to look like discrimination when you don’t communicate clearly. You’ll also hear why coaching and documentation matter, and how to keep termination conversations respectful, brief, and defensible. You’ll learn: Why your at-will status alone isn’t a legal shield How “no reason” can support create discrimination claims after the fact What lawyers looking to sure hate to find in the employee's record How to run a clear, respectful, defensible termination meeting   Have an HR situation you want Paul to unpack on the show? Record a voice memo and send it to podcast@WTHJustHappened.com. Learn more at WTHJustHappened.com.   CEDR HR Solutions is here to help when your HR issues leave you thinking, “What the hell just happened?!” Learn more here: CEDR HR Solutions Or give them a call (866) 414-6056

    21 min

  4. JAN 20

    You Can't Unsee HR Things, and two other WTH Moments

    Employees don’t usually quit “out of nowhere”, but for managers, it can feel that way.   In this episode, Paul Edwards sits down with CeCe, COO of CEDR HR Solutions, to unpack why surprise staff shortages happen and what leaders often miss before employees walk out the door.   Unexpected turnover can leave business owners scrambling, frustrated, and short-staffed. Paul and CeCe break down the early warning signs managers overlook, the HR blind spots that lead to sudden departures, and how better communication and leadership habits can prevent staffing crises before they start.   You’ll learn: Why “surprise” employee exits are rarely sudden Common management missteps that drive quiet disengagement How to spot early warning signs before turnover hits Practical steps leaders can take to reduce unexpected staffing gaps What to do when an employee leaves without explanation Whether you’re a small business owner or a people manager handling HR issues daily, this conversation offers clear, actionable insights to help you protect your team and your business from surprise turnover. CEDR HR Solutions is here to help when your HR issues leave you thinking, “What the hell just happened?!” Learn more here: CEDR HR Solutions Or give them a call (866) 414-6056

    27 min

  5. 2025-04-29

    We Knead a Break: Making Pizza, Not Policies

    Paul Edwards gets cheesy with this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?! With a totally new topic - Pizza. He does still answer a listener HR question at the end, however, this episode is a break from the typical HR content we typically share and gets into something more fun - how to make the perfectly imperfect pizza. Join Paul Edwards and Eileen Lyons as they share their culinary wisdom around all things pizza and take a mental break from all you’ve been holding onto this Tuesday.    Recipe for Paul’s Not-Perfect Dough:  Ingredients:  All Purpose Flour 700gr. Semolena Flour 71 grms Instant Yeast 3gr. Water 501 Oil 23.5 Sugar 7.7gr. Salt 19 gr.   Instructions:  Mix all ingredients except for salt. 12 total minutes mixing. Let dough mix for about 6 minutes at medium speed in a stand mixer. Then let it rest for about two minutes before adding salt for the remaining 6 minutes. Turn dough out on a lightly floured counter. Form a large ball and then cover and let it double in size. Punch down and split into four balls. Place covered in the fridge for 48 hours to proof. You can use them or wrap in saran wrap and freeze. Recipe for Paul’s Pizza Sauce:  Ingredients: Quarter of a medium onion, minced Seeded tomato sauce: Paul recommends a puréed style like Mutti, as removing seeds helps prevent heartburn Olive oil: About 3-4 tablespoons Finely minced garlic: 2-3 cloves Dried oregano Dry red pepper flakes: A pinch to taste (don't overpower the dough) Fennel is mentioned for Italian sausage flavor but not explicitly in this sauce recipe   Instructions:  Heat olive oil in a deep sauce pot over medium-high heat Cook minced onions until translucent (1-2 minutes) Add chopped garlic and cook for about a minute (don't fry too long to avoid bitterness) Add red pepper flakes and salt; cook together briefly Turn off the heat, add the tomato sauce, stir, then turn the heat back on low for another 2-3 minutes Adjust seasonings to taste The sauce can be refrigerated for 2-3 weeks, but be mindful that garlic can cause food poisoning if left too long.

    59 min

  6. 2025-04-15

    Building a Better Business Through Core Values

    In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, Paul Edwards and Grace Godlasky discuss how core values can improve your business and your workplace culture. Join them as they discuss the importance of understanding and having core values. This week, episode 104 of What the Hell Just Happened?! is about how core values for your business can unify a growing team and help solidify your business reputation and your name in the community. Better workplaces make better lives.  Important Links for this Episode:  Blog from CEDR on core values and workplace culture. Our podcast sponsor, CEDR HR Solutions, knows there’s a better, easier way to HR. With our industry-leading approach, we support over 3,000 small and medium businesses across the country through custom handbooks, one-on-one HR coaching, and education. From HIPAA training to our expansive software, backstageHR, our affordable and tailored approach enables you to address any issue with ease.  In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, CEDR CEO and Founder Paul Edwards is joined by Grace Godlasky to share the three prongs of a successful business, and actionable steps you can take to grow your company with a solid foundation through things like core values and a mission. Paul Edwards and Grace Godlasky also discuss: The reason for core values and why it’s important to have them and make sure your team understands them. What happens to the patient experience when your team does not follow your core values or when you do not have them, and how that impacts your business. A few of CEDR’s core values and what they mean to us How core values can be applied to run your business in your absence or in the wake of a busy season. If you are a business owner or an office manager looking to simplify your HR process and you are not already subscribed to our HR Insider Newsletter, you need to click here to start receiving the most current, updated information for your office. Be sure to tune in every other Tuesday and listen to past episodes to get informed about tons of HR tips and best practices.  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please make sure to share this episode on LinkedIn or with your team, and don’t forget to follow, share, and rate the show on your preferred listening platform.  Email questions or comments for Paul at podcast@wthjusthappened.com You can connect with us here: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

    1h 10m

  7. 2025-04-01

    The Hidden Challenge of Success: Navigating HR and Compliance in a Growing Med Spa

    In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, Paul Edwards and CeCe Wilson discuss how rapid growth can both be exciting, but also lead to compliance concerns. Join them as they discuss the importance of having a handbook and knowing the laws around being a business owner. This week, episode 105 of What the Hell Just Happened?! is about how Med Spas experience rapid growth and the negative impacts of that success. Better workplaces make better lives.  Important Links for this Episode:  Blog from CEDR on rapid growth and compliance concerns Our podcast sponsor, CEDR HR Solutions, knows there’s a better, easier way to HR. With our industry-leading approach, we support over 3,000 small and medium businesses across the country through custom handbooks, one-on-one HR coaching, and education. From HIPAA training to our expansive software, backstageHR, our affordable and tailored approach enables you to address any issue with ease.  In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, CEDR CEO and Founder Paul Edwards is joined by CeCe Wilson to share the legal risks around rapid growth and success, and actionable steps you can take to correct your mistakes and move forward with confidence. Paul Edwards and CeCe Wilson also discuss: Mara, a Med Spa owner who rapidly grew her Med Spa and is now struggling with compliance issues now that she’s expanding. The importance of a good handbook, and hiring/onboarding processes, and as much foundational structures as possible to grow successfully and compliantly.  The importance of hiring on CEDR HR Solutions to help you get started on the right foot with people in your corner who can help you scale successfully and legally.  What core values encourage in leadership roles at your practice. If you are a business owner or an office manager looking to simplify your HR process and you are not already subscribed to our HR Insider Newsletter, you need to click here to start receiving the most current, updated information for your office. Be sure to tune in every other Tuesday and listen to past episodes to get informed about tons of HR tips and best practices.  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please make sure to share this episode on LinkedIn or with your team, and don’t forget to follow, share, and rate the show on your preferred listening platform.  Email questions or comments for Paul at podcast@wthjusthappened.com You can connect with us here: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

    28 min

  8. 2025-03-18

    Are Quirky Interview Questions Holding You Back From High Performers?

    In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, Paul Edwards and CeCe Wilson explore the pros and cons of quirky interview questions—and why they might be doing more harm than good in your hiring process. Join them as they discuss the importance of asking smart, strategic questions that actually help you find the right candidate. This week, episode 104 of What the Hell Just Happened?! breaks down the impact of quirky interview questions on hiring success. Better workplaces make better lives.  Important Links for this Episode:  Behavioral Interview Questions Where Interview Questions Come From How to Prepare for Interviews FREE Guide: Hiring Guide Our podcast sponsor, CEDR HR Solutions, knows there’s a better, easier way to HR. With our industry-leading approach, we support over 3,000 small and medium businesses across the country through custom handbooks, one-on-one HR coaching, and education. From HIPAA training to our expansive software, backstageHR, our affordable and tailored approach enables you to address any issue with ease.  In this episode of What the Hell Just Happened?!, CEDR CEO and Founder Paul Edwards is joined by CeCe Wilson to share insights on unusual interview questions they’ve encountered, plus practical tips to develop strong behavioral interview questions and stay consistent in your hiring process. Paul Edwards and CeCe Wilson also discuss: Why high-performing candidates are often put off by quirky interview questions. How these questions typically fail to assess job-related skills. Why behavioral interview questions are a far more effective alternative for hiring top talent. If you are a business owner or an office manager looking to simplify your HR process and you are not already subscribed to our HR Insider Newsletter, you need to click here to start receiving the most current, updated information for your office. Be sure to tune in every other Tuesday and listen to past episodes to get informed about tons of HR tips and best practices.  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please make sure to share this episode on LinkedIn or with your team, and don’t forget to follow, share, and rate the show on your preferred listening platform.  Email questions or comments for Paul at podcast@wthjusthappened.com You can connect with us here: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

    18 min
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About

You don’t know what you don’t know. And, when it comes to HR and employment laws, most employers are SHOCKED by what they learn from talking to CEDR CEO and Founder Paul Edwards for just ten minutes. But Paul’s a busy man. And, though he would love nothing more than to talk one-on-one with each and every business owner and manager interested in learning about HR compliance, team management strategies, and how to protect their businesses, there’s only so much Paul to go around. So, we’ve got the next best thing for you - Introducing ”What the Hell Just Happened?” In this new podcast, Paul sits down with a different HR expert from his Solution Center team each week to discuss the burning HR questions facing you now, and to offer expert insights on important HR considerations you didn’t know you didn’t know.

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