The BARF

WRKdefined
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The BARF

Breaking news, Acquisitions, Research, and Funding is The BARF. A look back into last week’s most talked about news in the world of work, what’s happened, what does it mean, and why should you care. Analysis that you can understand without a Ph.D. Proudly brought to you by WRKdefined with hosts William Tincup and Ryan Leary. 

  1. MAR 3

    AI's Impact on Pay Gaps, Freelancers, and Gen Z: Breaking HR News and Future Trends

    The evolving landscape of HR and recruitment is undergoing a massive transformation with AI at the forefront. From tackling the gender pay gap to leveraging AI tools for freelancers, this episode dives into how technology is reshaping talent acquisition and employee training. In this episode, we look at AI tools, HR technology, gender pay gap, training innovations, task masking, DEI programs, freelance market, workforce management, strategic recruitment, HR funding trends, and talent intelligence. As AI takes over repetitive tasks, recruiters are focusing on strategy, and companies must adapt or risk falling behind. Key Takeaways ➡️ Women spend 8.6 years working for every 10 years logged by men. ➡️ The gender pay gap results in about half a million dollars lost per woman. ➡️ Innovative training tools like AIMY are transforming employee development. ➡️ Task masking is a subtle pushback against return-to-office mandates. ➡️ Fiverr's integration of AI tools is set to empower freelancers. ➡️ 97% of Apple shareholders voted to retain DEI programs. ➡️ DoorDash is settling a lawsuit for tip misappropriation. ➡️ Social media is a critical hiring channel for Gen Z employees. ➡️ The freelance market is evolving, demanding companies to adapt. ➡️ AI is reshaping employee engagement and training; adapt or die. ➡️ KKR's investment in Employment Hero shows confidence in HR tech. ➡️ AI agents may soon replace human interactions in the workplace. ➡️ Startups are scaling efficiently with fewer employees due to AI. ➡️ Funding trends indicate a focus on efficiency in HR tech. Connect with us here: 🔗 Connect with William Tincup: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ 🔗 Connect with Ryan Leary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 04:10 Gender Pay Gap Insights 07:16 Innovations in Employee Training 10:11 Task Masking in the Workplace 13:09 Fiverr's AI Integration 15:49 Apple's Commitment to DEI and Job Creation 18:46 DoorDash's Legal Troubles and Implications 21:15 Adapting to Attract Talent 21:39 The Shift in Recruitment Strategies 22:41 Acquisition Insights: Employment Hero 23:31 AI in the Workplace: A New Normal 25:33 AI Startups: Scaling with Fewer Employees 27:48 Funding Trends in HR Tech 29:36 Innovations in Training and Development 30:28 The Future of Recruitment: AI's Role 33:32 The Impact of AI on Workforce Dynamics 36:37 Investments in AI and Robotics 40:32 The Future of Talent Intelligence Platforms 42:44 The BARF Video Intro Epidemic.mp4 Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network 🔗 Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ 🐦 Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined 📩 Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com 💬 What’s your take? Are we headed toward a new normal, or just workplace chaos? Drop your thoughts in the comments! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min

  2. FEB 24

    Amazon’s Management Overhaul, AI Layoffs & Why 71% of Meetings Suck

    Amazon is ditching layers of management, AI is cutting IT jobs, and government buyouts are on the rise. Meanwhile, HR tech is consolidating, employee retention is shifting, and the EEOC’s latest gender identity rulings could have major legal consequences. Oh, and let’s not forget—71% of meetings are a waste of time. We’re diving deep into the trends shaking up the workplace and breaking down what they mean for companies and employees alike. In this episode, we look at Amazon’s management overhaul, automation in fast food, interoffice relationships, employee well-being, AI-driven fintech funding, HR tech acquisitions, compensation transparency, and the productivity-killing impact of bad meetings. Key Takeaways ➡️ Flattening an org can speed up decision-making but limit career growth. ➡️ EEOC’s latest rulings may change how gender identity cases are handled. ➡️ Government buyouts could leave thousands without jobs. ➡️ AI-driven automation is reshaping IT employment and workforce needs. ➡️ Interoffice relationships: great for engagement, risky for HR. ➡️ The restaurant industry is turning to automation to cut labor costs. ➡️ Employee retention hinges on market stability and fair compensation. ➡️ HR tech acquisitions are redefining how companies approach talent. ➡️ Most meetings are pointless—fixing them starts with clear agendas. ➡️ Only 10% of employees say their manager positively impacts their work. ➡️ Fintech funding is skyrocketing—AI is a key driver. ➡️ AI is revolutionizing project management in construction. Connect with us here: 🔗 Connect with William Tincup: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ 🔗 Connect with Ryan Leary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network 🔗 Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ 🐦 Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined 📩 Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 25m

  3. FEB 17

    Super Bowl, Work Ethic, and Workplace Politics: What’s Changing?

    The Super Bowl isn’t just about football—it’s a reflection of generational shifts, corporate strategies, and even workplace politics. In this episode, we dive into the evolving work ethic across different age groups, Workday’s latest AI-driven skills intelligence, and why ICE raids have HR leaders rethinking compliance. Target is in the hot seat over DEI, and the NFL is facing serious discrimination allegations. In this episode, we look at corporate decisions, employee engagement, acquisitions, and the tech shaping the workplace—including funding trends in payroll and skills development. We also explore the tension between executive orders and long-term legislation, why engagement surveys might not tell the whole story, and how grievance politics are shifting workplace dynamics. Key Takeaways: ➡️ Generational differences in work ethic are more pronounced than ever. ➡️ Homeownership is increasingly a luxury, reshaping financial priorities. ➡️ Workday’s AI-driven skills intelligence could redefine workforce planning. ➡️ Employees need to know their legal rights during ICE raids. ➡️ Target’s DEI strategy is facing backlash—again. ➡️ The return-to-office debate isn’t going away anytime soon. ➡️ The NFL is grappling with major discrimination lawsuits. ➡️ Workplace policies shift fast under changing political leadership. ➡️ Employee sentiment on DEI is divided, even in progressive workplaces. ➡️ Engagement is a key driver of employee retention and productivity. ➡️ Acquisitions in HR tech continue reshaping the market. ➡️ Workplace grievance politics are on the rise, impacting leadership decisions. ➡️ Employee engagement surveys may not reflect the full picture. ➡️ Return-to-office policies are fueling serious employee pushback. ➡️ Tech funding is flowing into payroll and workforce skills development. ➡️ Niche payroll solutions are emerging to meet industry-specific needs. ➡️ Developing workforce skills is critical for long-term job security. Chapters 00:00 Super Bowl Predictions and Team Rivalries 06:02 Nostalgic Drinking Stories 08:19 Generational Work Ethic Discussion 11:13 Tech Integration in the Workplace 14:12 Legal Insights on ICE Raids 21:14 Target's DEI Controversy and Market Impact 24:04 The Impact of Economics on Consumer Choices 25:39 The Role of Boycotts in Social Change 26:56 The Debate on Return to Office Policies 28:15 The Effects of Remote Work on Personal Habits 30:36 NFL's Discrimination Lawsuits and Settlements 33:13 The EEOC's Response to Gender Ideology 35:36 The Cyclical Nature of Political Movements 37:04 Meta's Internal Divisions on DEI Policies 37:45 Recent Acquisitions in the HR Tech Space 44:46 Preparing for Grievance Politics in the Workplace 48:42 The Evolution of Employee Engagement Surveys 53:44 Understanding Return to Office Policies 58:21 Innovations in Employee Cybersecurity 01:00:36 AI in Job Matching and Talent Acquisition 01:03:03 Identifying and Developing Workforce Skills 01:06:00 Niche Payroll Solutions for the Construction Industry 01:06:13 The BARF Video Intro Epidemic.mp4 Connect with us here: 🔗 Connect with William Tincup: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ 🔗 Connect with Ryan Leary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network: 🔗 Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ 🐦 Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined 📩 Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com 🔥 What’s your take? Are workplace policies evolving for the better, or are we stuck in a loop? Drop your thoughts in the comments! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 14m

  4. FEB 7

    The Engagement Dilemma: Burnout, Layoffs, and the Future of Work

    Employee engagement is anything but one-size-fits-all. Burnout is rising, workplace discrimination cases keep making headlines, and companies are doubling down on corporate accountability (or avoiding it altogether). Meanwhile, job mobility is skyrocketing as workers chase better pay, and remote work continues to reshape employee expectations. Add in the rising skepticism around MBAs and a wave of strategic layoffs, and it’s clear: the workforce is in flux. In this episode, we look at employee engagement, burnout, workplace discrimination, corporate accountability, pregnancy rights, employment trends, MBA value, acquisitions, layoffs, remote work, job mobility, employee communication, HR technology, funding, fleet safety, economic trends, workforce changes, employee expectations. From HR tech innovations to fleet safety advancements, we unpack what’s shifting in the job market and how companies—and employees—are adapting. Key Takeaways Employee engagement isn’t universal—what works for one doesn’t work for all. Burnout rates are surging, and engaged employees are significantly less affected. Workplace discrimination lawsuits continue to push corporate accountability forward. Pregnancy rights remain a battleground in many industries. Layoffs are projected to rise, with 46% of employers considering cuts in 2025. MBA programs are losing value in a rapidly changing job market. Acquisitions and corporate roll-ups are reshaping industry power dynamics. Remote work is still a major factor in retention and job satisfaction. Workers are increasingly treating the job market like free agency, hopping for better pay. The communication gap between leadership and employees is wider than ever. HR tech funding is booming, signaling more automation in hiring and workforce management. Fleet safety innovations are evolving to combat distracted and drowsy driving. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 01:24Sports Talk and Team Dynamics 04:31 Diversity in Executive Roles 07:23 Corporate Layoffs and Communication Failures 10:17 Discrimination Settlements and Corporate Accountability 13:25 Pregnancy Discrimination and Workplace Rights 16:23 Financial Struggles of Clinicians 19:23 The Future of Management in an AI World 20:46The Changing Landscape of MBA Graduates 25:05 Acquisitions in the Corporate World 34:25 Layoffs and Workforce Dynamics 38:23 The Remote Work Debate 42:11 Job Hopping for Better Pay 45:19 Communication Gaps in Organizations 47:28 Understanding Business Goals and Employee Incentives 49:06 The Importance of Effective Communication in Corporations 51:11 Innovations in Internal Data Access and Security 52:40 The Role of Consulting Firms in Future-Proofing Businesses 54:20 Funding Trends in HR Tech and Automation 55:53 AI-Driven Resume Tailoring for Job Seekers 59:04 Safety Innovations in Fleet Management 01:04:50 Enhancing Communication Governance in Business Connect with us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 10m

  5. JAN 19

    AI in the Workforce: Navigating DEI and Emerging Workplace Trends

    Summary: In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in today's workforce, examining its intersection with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and the broader workplace trends shaping the future. We discuss how AI is influencing company culture, impacting employee empowerment, and addressing skills gaps in the labor market. Additionally, we explore recent shifts in DEI strategies and the evolving expectations of employees in an AI-driven work environment. Key Takeaways: AI Integration: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing workforce dynamics, enhancing productivity, and creating new roles that require advanced skill sets. DEI Evolution: Companies are reassessing their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, with some scaling back initiatives, while studies indicate that robust DEI practices lead to greater innovation. Employee Empowerment: The rise of AI and flexible work models is shifting power dynamics, enabling employees to have more autonomy and say in their work environments. Skills Gap Challenge: Despite technological advancements, 63% of global employers still view the skills gap as a significant barrier to growth, highlighting the need for continuous learning and development. Workplace Trends: The future of work is being shaped by AI integration, evolving DEI efforts, and a focus on employee well-being, requiring organizations to adapt proactively to stay competitive. William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network: The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 min

  6. JAN 13

    The Future of Work: AI, Parental Leave, and California's Workforce Reforms

    California’s job policies are breaking barriers, AI is transforming the way businesses operate, and workplace flexibility is redefining employee loyalty. This episode dives into workplace challenges like mansplaining, shifting parental leave norms, and the ongoing wave of industry acquisitions shaping tomorrow’s workforce. In this episode, we look at California job policies, AI in business, workplace flexibility, employee loyalty, mansplaining, acquisitions, parental leave, workplace dynamics, leadership trends, workforce consolidation, and how companies like Netflix are setting new standards for employee benefits. Key Takeaways California is eliminating degree requirements to promote equitable hiring. AI is becoming the backbone of modern workforce strategies. Workplace flexibility directly correlates with improved employee retention. Mansplaining persists as a cultural challenge in workplace communication. Industry acquisitions signal rapid consolidation and market growth. Netflix’s parental leave update reflects shifting priorities in employee benefits. Honesty in the workplace is valued, but excessive transparency can backfire. Companies urge employees to embrace authenticity within professional boundaries. Effective job performance remains the cornerstone of career success. The evolving work environment demands adaptability and innovative strategies. AI-driven hiring strategies are paving the way for smarter recruitment. Leadership must navigate a complex blend of technology and human-centric policies. William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network: The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  7. 12/15/2024

    AI, Ethics, and Automation: Top Stories Shaping Workforces and Workplace Trends in 2024

    BARF is back, and we’re diving headfirst into AI’s growing role in the workplace, the ethical landmines of corporate policies, and the future of workforce automation. This week’s stories uncover the harsh realities of workplace culture, from harassment allegations to AI-driven layoffs—and the hidden costs of being “productive.” In this episode, we look at workforce automation, workplace ethics, AI decision-making, talent onboarding, leadership priorities, strategic acquisitions, workplace security, employee rights, HR tech funding, workplace trends, and productivity metrics. It’s all about the stories driving the HR conversation forward. Key Takeaways AI's Role in Decision-Making: Employees penalized for ignoring AI advice signals trust issues and human-AI dynamics in modern workplaces. Workplace Harassment: A reminder that ethics and safety should never play second fiddle to profit—teens entering the workforce deserve better safeguards. Rising Costs and Minimum Wage: The need to raise wages is more about dignity than dollars—because who can afford a $19 sandwich on $7.25 an hour? Automation’s Double-Edged Sword: Amazon’s most automated warehouse in Louisiana might be a glimpse into the future—where humans train their replacements. Global Expansion in HR Tech: Phenom’s thousand-person expansion in India underscores the globalization of HR solutions. HR and Work Tech Mergers: The Joined-Cloud Connectors merger reshapes integration, creating seamless solutions for the work tech landscape. Talent Verification Evolution: Spectre’s funding showcases the rising need for fraud prevention and AI-human applicant verification. AI in Workforce Management: Legion Technologies' $50M funding emphasizes efficiency in scheduling and time tracking over sheer productivity. Leadership During Change: Strategic acquisitions like Axios HQ’s purchase of Mixing Board redefine communications and talent priorities in HR. Future of Work Funding: Asterix Security and similar startups continue to attract investment to fortify workflow protections. Healthcare Workflow Innovation: Companies like Evidently are streamlining operations while consumers demand better patient experiences. HR’s Relationship With Productivity: Being the most productive shouldn’t come at the expense of mental health and employee well-being. Chapters: 0:08 - It's time for the BARF 0:42 - The Cold Office and Some Fun Banter   1:40 - The Business World Stuck in the '90s   2:17 - AI in Presentation Design   4:04 - EEOC Settlement for Harassment Allegations   7:18 - Teen Workforce Protection Needs   8:10 - Minimum Wage Debate   10:27 - AI Decision-Making in Workplaces   13:38 - Amazon’s Shreveport Warehouse and Automation   17:12 - Phenom Expands in India   19:27 - U.S. Productivity Versus Canada and EU   21:40 - Axios HQ Acquires Mixing Board   24:04 - Joined and Cloud Connectors Merger   27:13 - Evidently Raises $15M for Healthcare AI   28:56 - Asterix Security’s $45M Funding   30:21 - Relocation Management Spotlight   31:32 - Hiring Branch’s Series A   36:26 - Spectre’s Fraud Prevention Tech   38:36 - Let's get the F out of here William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min

  8. 12/08/2024

    The BARF: AI, DEI, Union Battles, Money, Morals, and Messy Workplaces

    In this episode, we tackle workplace power plays, leadership under fire, the rise of union battles, and how AI is reshaping hiring strategies. From housing market chaos to healthcare headaches, we’re breaking down the trends redefining HR and the future of work. Key Takeaways Family dynamics and financial decisions often spill over into work, driving employee priorities. Productivity during holidays smashes the myth that downtime kills efficiency. Hybrid workplaces are creating a caste system—and it’s getting messy. DEI initiatives are walking a tightrope between progress and shareholder backlash. Privacy concerns at work are the new battleground for corporate trust. Unionization efforts are hitting walls, thanks to political interference and outdated policies. AI recruitment tools are flipping the hiring script and slashing time-to-fill. HR tech funding is leaning toward small businesses pushing bold, creative solutions. Rising healthcare costs are forcing companies to rethink benefits, with remote healthcare leading the charge. The housing market squeeze isn’t just personal—it’s reshaping employer-employee dynamics. HR leaders are under pressure to lead the charge on adaptability and innovation. Daxter’s latest expansion shows how tech is setting new standards for workplace satisfaction. Chapters 00:00 Family Surprises and Weekend Plans 03:01 Financial Decisions and Responsibilities 05:59 Workplace Dynamics and Employee Trust 09:05 Corporate Policies and Employee Rights 11:56 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Business 15:11 Productivity During the Holiday Season 18:02 Privacy Concerns in the Workplace 22:53 The Impact of Leadership in a Polarized World 24:55 Healthcare Challenges and Workforce Solutions 28:30 Daxter's Expanding Product Line 30:31 Unionization and Political Influence 33:06 Recent Acquisitions in the Recruitment Sector 40:41 Employee Wellbeing and Workplace Satisfaction 43:55 High Volume Hiring Trends and Tools 46:20 Housing Market Challenges 47:26 Shifting Perspectives on DEI Initiatives 50:37 The Future of HR Leadership 53:51 Adapting HR Strategies to Employee Needs 01:00:01 Innovations in Health Benefits Management 01:02:48 Emerging Trends in Remote Healthcare 01:06:39 Funding Trends in HR Tech 01:10:41 AI Innovations in Recruitment William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 11m
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About

Breaking news, Acquisitions, Research, and Funding is The BARF. A look back into last week’s most talked about news in the world of work, what’s happened, what does it mean, and why should you care. Analysis that you can understand without a Ph.D. Proudly brought to you by WRKdefined with hosts William Tincup and Ryan Leary. 

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  • Channel
    WRKdefined
  • Creator
    WRKdefined
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved by WRKdefined
  • Show Website
    The BARF

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