Guerrilla HR

Guerrilla HR Podcast
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Guerrilla HR is here to share unconventional wisdom, advice, and stories from the front lines of Human Resources.

  1. FEB 9

    Corporate Culture is Actually Decided by Frontline Supervisors

    In this episode of the Guerrilla HR podcast, host Becky Drozdz sits down with Barry Wolfe, founder of Argos HR Solutions and author of It's All in Your Head. They challenge traditional HR "doom and gloom" by discussing why psychology-based tools often fail employees and why leadership should focus on "nouns" (deliverables) rather than "verbs" (tasks). From driving forklifts at thirteen to serving as a VP of HR, Barry shares how a "value-centric" approach can bridge the gap between corporate vision and the reality of the night shift. The "No-A*****e" Rule for New Grads: Becky shares her recent advice to students at the University of South Carolina, Lancaster: the most important core competency is simply not being a jerk. This applies to teamwork, communication, and basic respect. The Homogeneity Myth: Corporate leaders often view their organization as one uniform culture, but the reality on the ground—especially at different sites or on the night shift—is often completely different. Culture Happens at the Frontline: A company’s true culture isn't what is written on a mission statement; it is decided by frontline supervisors through their daily interactions with employees. Defining Value-Centric Leadership: Focus on Nouns, Not Verbs: Organizations shouldn't pay people just to "do" things (verbs); they should pay for "results" or "deliverables" (nouns). The Universal Question: Every employee wants to know: "What do I have to do to get a raise around here?" Value-centric leadership provides a clear, data-driven answer to that question for every role, not just sales. The "Overhead" Trap: Barry illustrates value through the example of a dental receptionist. By focusing on the billable value of filling cancellations rather than just "answering phones," a role traditionally seen as overhead becomes a critical driver of revenue. Skepticism of Personality Tests: Barry discusses research suggesting that many popular HR tools, such as personality testing and competency modeling, lack the scientific backing to truly predict performance. Book: It’s All in Your Head: Why Psychology Doesn’t Help Your Employees Deliver Value and What Can by Barry Wolfe Book: Chasing Stars: The Myth of Talent and the Portability of Performance by Boris Groysberg Website: Argos HR

    34 min

  2. JAN 26

    Beyond the Moral Imperative: Leveraging IDEA for Business Success

    In this episode of the Guerrilla HR Podcast, Becky Drozdz is joined by IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) expert Michael Bach to challenge traditional approaches to diversity work. Michael explains why moving from a "social justice" or "moral" justification to a data-driven business case is the key to making organizational change truly "sticky". From the massive costs of employee turnover to opening new customer markets, this conversation highlights why IDEA is not just a "nice-to-have" but a core business strategy for 2026. 2026 Financial Outlook: Becky discusses the 2.8% Social Security COLA adjustment for 2026 and how it differs from the 3.5%–4% salary increases currently seen in cost-of-labor data. The Problem with "The Right Thing to Do": Michael discusses why the moral imperative often fails in the corporate world and how to align IDEA with shareholder value and CEO priorities. The Talent Pillar: How a commitment to IDEA impacts recruitment and retention, noting that 75% of employees would stay at a company because of its IDEA commitments. The High Cost of Inequity: A look at the real dollar cost of replacing employees (50%–300% of a salary) and the economic impact of the gender wage gap. Starting from Scratch: Michael’s "North Star" advice for organizations: build a rock-solid, 2-to-3-page business case that speaks your company's specific financial and strategic language. Practical Resources: An overview of Michael's books, Birds of All Feathers and Alphabet Soup, designed as practical how-to manuals for small-to-medium enterprises. A "COVID Baby" Biography: The story behind Michael's biography of RuPaul's Drag Race winner Evie Oddly, All About Evie: Into the Oddity. "Oh My God, Becky" Segment: Becky clarifies the distinction between "market rate" and a "living wage," expressing the need for a country where 40 hours of work consistently meets basic needs. Books by Michael Bach: Birds of All Feathers: Doing Diversity and Inclusion Right Alphabet Soup: The Essential Guide to LGBTQ2+ Inclusion at Work All About Yvie: Into the Oddity (Co-written with Evie Oddly) Guest Website: michaelbach.com Social Media: @themichaelbach on all platforms

    27 min

  3. JAN 12

    Beyond the Paycheck: Mastering the 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace

    While many professionals are familiar with the "5 Love Languages," applying these concepts to a professional setting is a game-changer for retention and culture. In this episode of the Guerrilla HR Podcast, Becky Drozdz sits down with Dr. Paul White to discuss how managers can move beyond vague "good job" emails and connect with their teams on a deeper level. From navigating appreciation in a remote world to understanding generational differences in communication, Dr. White provides actionable tactics for HR leaders and business owners to build more connected, loyal workplaces. The Transition from Love to Work: Dr. Paul White shares the origin story of how a "disastrous" family business succession plan led to his collaboration with Dr. Gary Chapman. The 5 Languages Defined: A breakdown of the five languages—Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Tangible Gifts, and Physical Touch—and how their application differs in a professional context. The "Good Job" Trap: Why vague praise often falls flat and the research-backed model for giving meaningful, specific affirmation. Generational Shifts in Appreciation: Why older employees value focused time with supervisors while younger workers (Gen Z) often prioritize connection with their peers. Acts of Service & Remote Work: Practical ways to support colleagues who are miles away, including "proactive checking in" and freeing up resources for time-sensitive projects. The Impact on Retention: Exploring the statistic that 79% of people who quit cite a lack of appreciation as a primary reason for leaving. Becky’s "Oh My God, Becky" Segment: A concluding discussion on advocating for yourself with market data and the importance of respectful communication with employers regarding compensation.

    26 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    Cybersecurity for Small Business: Protecting Data in a Digital World

    Becky Drozdz sits down with Anu Jassal, owner and president of TeamLogic IT, to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing organizations today: data security. From rising benefits costs to the growing threat of cyberattacks, Becky and Anu explore how employers can safeguard sensitive information while supporting their workforce. 💡 Key insights you’ll hear: Why rising benefits costs demand smarter broker relationships and creative plan designHow small businesses can protect themselves against data breaches without big IT budgetsThe importance of layered defenses: strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, firewalls, and email filteringWhy phishing simulations build “muscle memory” and help employees spot suspicious activityThe growing sophistication of scams—from impersonation emails to AI-powered fraud—and how to stay vigilantPractical steps for secure file sharing and role-based access to sensitive informationThis episode blends HR strategy with IT expertise, offering actionable advice for leaders who want to protect both their people and their data in an increasingly digital workplace.

    25 min

  5. 12/15/2025

    From the Marines to HR: Lessons in Leadership and Transition

    Becky Drozdz welcomes Jessica Arellano—strategic HR leader and retired U.S. Marine—to explore the parallels and differences between military and civilian human resources. Jessica shares her 20-year journey in the Marine Corps, where she managed HR functions like benefits, performance management, and succession planning, and how those experiences translate into today’s corporate world. 💡 Key takeaways: Why nearly 90% of U.S. employees worry about covering basic monthly expenses—and what employers can do to helpHow HR in the military mirrors corporate HR, from recruiting to performance managementThe structured promotion and succession systems of the armed forcesThe challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian careers—and the transferable leadership skills they bringPractical advice for service members preparing to exit the military, including networking, mentorship, and leveraging nonprofit resources

    28 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Recruiting in Flux: Navigating Tight Markets and Shifting Power

    In this episode of Guerrilla HR, Becky Drozdz sits down with Bill Kasko, President and CEO of Frontline Source Group, to unpack the evolving world of recruiting and staffing. From the days of fax machines to the rise of LinkedIn, Bill shares how technology, recessions, and the Great Resignation have reshaped the balance of power between employers and employees. 💡 Key insights you’ll hear: Why free speech at work isn’t as simple as the First AmendmentHow Bill’s unexpected journey from tech to staffing shaped his perspectiveThe impact of the Great Resignation on compensation and retentionWhy today’s “tight market” is driven by fear as much as opportunityHow platforms like LinkedIn have become essential for both job seekers and employersThis candid conversation blends Becky’s HR expertise with Bill’s recruiting experience, offering practical takeaways for leaders, employees, and anyone navigating the modern labor market.

    35 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Know Your Worth: The Real Talk Guide to Asking for a Raise

    Becky Drozdz tackles the emotional weight of a divided world and pivots toward personal agency, starting with your paycheck. After a heartfelt reflection on legacy and how we show up in the world, Becky dives into the wage gap debate, busts myths about gender and negotiation, and delivers a no-nonsense guide to asking for a raise. 💡 What you'll learn: Why your employer doesn’t care why you want a raise—and what they do care aboutHow to shift from personal need to professional value in your askThe power of a “Yay Me” folder and how to build oneWhat market data to trust (and what to avoid)How to handle rejection and turn it into a growth opportunityWhether you're early in your career or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you advocate for yourself with clarity, confidence, and strategy. 🔗 Subscribe, share, and send Becky your questions—she’s ready to tackle them in future episodes.

    18 min

  8. 11/03/2025

    Accountability, Attitude & $17 Million Paychecks

    Becky dives into the latest CEO compensation data and the jaw-dropping gap between executive pay and employee wages. But that’s just the warm-up. From the myth of the “shit sandwich” feedback model to the emotional toll of toxic coworkers, Becky lays out a clear, practical framework for accountability in the workplace. Whether you’re a new manager, a seasoned HR pro, or just tired of eye rolls and sighs in the break room, this episode delivers real talk, actionable advice, and a few spicy TikTok comments to boot. Key Topics Covered: 📊 AP CEO Compensation Survey: $17.1M median pay vs. $85K employee median 📉 The 1.7% raise reality for workers—and what it says about corporate priorities 🧠 Accountability defined: obligation vs. willingness to own your actions 🧍‍♀️ Job hugging, the great stay, and fear-based workplace cultures 🧃 Why the “shit sandwich” feedback model fails—and what to do instead 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Behavioral accountability: eye rolls, sighs, and toxic team dynamics 🧾 Performance management tips: clarity, timeliness, and dignity 🏈 Becky’s football analogy: spitting, refs, and workplace civility 💬 TikTok comment of the week: “Nonprofits don’t choose where they pay”—Becky’s rebuttal 💡 Favorite coaching phrases: “What does success look like?” and “What do you need from me?”

    23 min
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About

Guerrilla HR is here to share unconventional wisdom, advice, and stories from the front lines of Human Resources.

Information

  • Creator
    Guerrilla HR Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Guerrilla HR Podcast
  • Show Website
    Guerrilla HR