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Juicebox gets $80M
Rec Tech: the Recruiting Technology PodcastIs your career site delivering the conversion you need? Dalia’s plug-and-play tech turns any employer career site into a high-performance candidate conversion engine — no replatforming required, live in days.Visit dalia.co to learn more. AND by jobcase, "Are you struggling to find the right talent in a crowded job market? Jobcase connects you to a massive community of over 120 million registered workers, including the hourly, skilled, and gig professionals that other job boards often miss. Visit jobcase.com/hire today to post your roles and start building the team you need with tools designed to make hiring fast and easy." Alright rec techies…..here’s what's happening this week. First up, SAN FRANCISCO — Juicebox, the outbound recruiting platform, announced $80 million in Series B funding at an $850 million valuation led by DST Global. The company has tripled ARR since its Series A in July 2025, and now serves 5,000 customers spanning fast-growing technology companies and Fortune 100 brands, with customers reporting up to 90% less time spent identifying top candidates. https://hrtechfeed.com/outbound-recruiting-platform-juicebox-raises-whopping-80m/ CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—-Talvy, a platform that offers video-first professional profiles, today announced its $2M seed round led by Link Ventures. https://hrtechfeed.com/talvy-raises-2m-seed-for-video-resumes/ Persona, the identity platform for businesses worldwide, today launched a Candidate Verification solution to confirm job applicants’ real-world identities at critical hiring stages. With integrations into Ashby, Greenhouse, and Workday, the offering enables talent acquisition and security teams to verify candidate identity as a natural part of their existing workflow. https://hrtechfeed.com/persona-launches-candidate-verification-to-stop-hiring-fraud-before-day-one/ I’ve just returned from Philadelphia where I attended this years I AM PHENOM user conference. This year it had about 2,500 customers and prospects gathered together at the convention center downtown. Unlike last year when they debuted 25 AI agents, this year saw no major product announcements rather they focused on product enhancements particularly around workflows and data orchestration. They called it WorkOps and They also announced a move into Public Sector HR https://hrtechfeed.com/phenom-set-to-go-after-public-sector-hr-software-market/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#25 - Kamaria Scott: Rethinking Performance Systems
From The Desk with Jada MontemaranoDelve into the fascinating world of organizational performance with Kamaria Scott, an I.O. psychologist and award-winning performance strategist. In this episode of 'From The Desk,' Kamaria shares her insights on why the systems, not the people, often dictate performance outcomes. Discover how she helps organizations bridge the gap between desired and actual workplace behaviors through her company, Enetic, and her innovative Manager Momentum Operation System.Join host Jada Montemarano as she explores with Kamaria the crucial role of systems in shaping employee behavior and performance. Learn about the importance of understanding the tools, processes, and environments that influence how teams operate. Kamaria shares a compelling case study on the adoption of a listening tool, highlighting the significance of co-creation and user-centered design in successful implementation.This episode offers valuable lessons on the 'will, skill, and way' framework, and how organizations can better align their systems to support their people. Whether you're an HR professional, a manager, or someone interested in organizational psychology, this conversation provides actionable insights into creating a more effective and supportive workplace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#12 - Tami Nutt: Rethinking the Blank Page - How Analysts Bridge the Gap in HR
By HR for HRTami Nutt, Vice President of Research and Insights for Aspect 43, shares how her 20-year career as an HR practitioner informs her current work as an industry analyst. She explains how analysts provide unbiased evaluations of technology and market trends, helping busy HR professionals connect the dots between global economics and workplace tools. Tami emphasizes that in the age of AI, HR must act as the "human experts," identifying which tasks are uniquely human and which can be handled by technology. A major theme of the discussion is the critical importance of HR compliance and change management. Tami describes compliance as the "foundation of the building"—essential for stability but often ignored until something fails. She challenges listeners to view compliance maturity not just as passing an audit, but as creating systems that make the right behaviors easy and consistent every day. Finally, she provides tips on avoiding implementation failures by making no assumptions and gathering rigorous data. Hosted by Jocelyn King, founder and CEO of VirgilHR. VirgilHR provides instant, trusted answers to HR compliance questions—helping teams navigate federal, state, and local employment laws with accuracy and ease. To learn more, visit www.virgilhr.com and follow Jocelyn on LinkedIn for ongoing guidance and industry updates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#81 - RIP Résumés: Why Engineers Are Found on GitHub, Not LinkedIN - Presented by CalendarPA.com
The Purple Acorn HR Morning ShowIn this episode of The HR Morning Show, hosts Danielle Farage, Brian Fink, and Mike Peditto dive into the shifting landscape of entry-level hiring and the broader economic impact of AI integration. The team breaks down recent data revealing that 21% of U.S. companies have frozen entry-level hiring as they pivot budgets toward AI infrastructure, sparking a critical conversation about the future talent vacuum. They also examine February’s unexpected payroll shrinkage, debating whether this "low-hire" environment is a temporary economic blip or a permanent structural shift where human headcount is traded for computing power. The episode also features industry experts sharing fresh perspectives on recruiting and employee benefits. Bolun Li joins Fink to discuss how Vamo Talent is revolutionizing tech recruiting by moving beyond keywords to source engineering talent through public proof-of-work, while Madge Rumman joins Danielle to highlight the growing importance of women's health as an employer-paid benefit. Plus, the team wraps things up with a "weather report" from Serge Boudreau and a final look at the latest trends in the ever-evolving HR space. Visit our sponsors: CalendarPA and Talent Tech PR! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rethinking Remote Teams with the Power of Global Talent - ep. 018
Return to PeopleHow can logistics companies scale faster by tapping into global talent without losing accountability, culture, or performance? In this episode of the Return to People Podcast, host Kaleem Clarkson sits down with Nick Schrock, founder of Valoroo, to explore how remote and offshore teams are transforming the logistics industry. With a background in enterprise software sales and logistics startups, Nick has built a company dedicated to helping freight and supply chain businesses grow by connecting them with skilled global talent. Nick shares how his early experience building an offshore lead generation team inspired the launch of Valoroo in 2019. Today, the company operates across Belize, Mexico, and the Philippines, helping logistics companies scale efficiently while maintaining a strong people-first culture rooted in trust, accountability, and ownership. Throughout this chat, Nick breaks down the often-overlooked complexity of logistics operations and explains how remote talent can strengthen communication, coordination, and efficiency in an industry built on relationships and real-time problem solving. He also discusses the lessons learned while bootstrapping a startup, the role of flexibility in accessing global talent, and why creating clear career paths and expectations is critical for retention and engagement. Packed with practical insights for founders, operators, and people leaders, this episode highlights how global teams, thoughtful leadership, and a people-first mindset can unlock new growth opportunities in logistics and beyond. 🎧 Tune in to hear how remote talent is reshaping supply chains and what leaders can learn from it. Learn more from Nick: Nick Schrock’s LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-schrock Valoroo: https://valoroo.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#19 - Kyle Lagunas: Navigating HR Innovation and AI
Is This Still A Good Time?In this episode of ITSAGT, we're thrilled to have industry analyst Kyle Lagunas join us for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of HR and talent acquisition. Kyle, who leads his own research advisory firm, Kyle and Co., is renowned for his insights into innovation cycles within the HR tech space. He shares his unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the industry, pushing beyond mere efficiency to drive fundamental changes in operating models.Join us as Kyle discusses the challenges and opportunities that AI presents, particularly in enhancing quality at scale—a critical focus for today's talent leaders. We explore how companies can leverage AI not just for automation, but as a catalyst for significant transformation in recruitment and HR practices. Kyle brings to light the frustrations faced by candidates and the need for a more human-centric approach in an increasingly automated world.Tune in to learn about the trends Kyle is tracking for 2026, including the dual focus on doing more with less while improving quality. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of HR and talent acquisition in the digital age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Applying to 1,000 Jobs Won't Work (And What Will)
The Jim Stroud PodcastThis podcast brought to you by: "Career Intelligence Weekly" - the newsletter that tracks the invisible job market for smarter career decisions. https://newsletter.jimstroud.com In this episode: At a recent conference, I sat down with recruitment marketing expert Jim Durbin, also known as the “Indeed Whisperer.” With 25+ years in staffing, headhunting, RPO, and internal TA, Durbin shares blunt insights on how hiring really works. We discuss why recruiters underuse Indeed’s resume database, why mass-applying with AI-generated resumes can hurt job seekers, and whether “ghost jobs” are as common as people think. Durbin also explains why both companies and candidates share responsibility for fixing today’s broken hiring experience. A candid conversation about recruiting myths, job search strategy, and how respect and intention can improve hiring on both sides. Connect with Jim Durbin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdurbin/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Personal Branding for Women Over 40
Workfluencer: Personal Branding & Content CreationPersonal branding for women over 40 who feel invisible is rarely about a lack of expertise. It's about two decades of keeping your head down, taking care of everyone else, and forgetting to tell the world what you know. In this episode, Monica Rivera breaks down what it actually takes to stop hiding and step into the visibility you've already earned. Together, Rhona Pierce and Monica unpack why experienced women, especially women over 40, feel invisible even after 20 years of building skills, leading teams, and delivering results. They dig into what it actually takes to stop hiding and step into visible leadership. You'll hear an honest conversation about imposter syndrome, the myth of the career ladder, how to get on stages, and why building a personal brand as a woman over 40 requires a completely different mindset than 'just start posting'. What You'll Learn Why your personal brand already exists whether you manage it or not The real reason experienced women stay invisible despite deep expertise Three types of stages and how to access all of them without waiting for an invitation A four-step framework to go from hidden to visible How 90-day experiments replace the pressure of picking a permanent identity Why thought leadership requires a distinct perspective, not just having opinions The mindset shift that makes self-promotion feel like service Resources Mentioned Visit Monica's website: https://youwannadowhat.com Subscribe to Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/newsletter2 Connect With Us Connect with Monica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamrivera/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. personal brand, personal brand for women, personal brand women over 40, personal branding, personal branding over 40, visible leadership, women over 40 career, women in leadership, thought leadership, content creation, professional content creator, corporate content creator, personal branding strategy, career transition, executive presence, professional development women, female entrepreneur, speaker coaching, creator economy, side hustle professional, women 40 plus, career reinvention, workplace visibility, content strategy, building a personal brand, HR leadership development, employer branding, workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#27 - Understanding Work Slop and Generational Dynamics
From X to ZIn this episode of From X to Z, join hosts Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnan as they delve into the intriguing world of 'work slop' and its impact on the modern workplace. This episode unpacks the phenomenon of AI-generated content that looks polished but lacks substance, a trend that's quietly affecting productivity and trust in organizations.Mervyn Dinnan, the analyst who puts the X in expert, shares insights from recent research by Better App Labs and Stanford, highlighting how work slop is costing companies millions in lost productivity. The discussion also touches on the generational dynamics in the workplace, exploring how different age groups approach work and learning.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by a multi-generational workforce, the importance of effective communication, and the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI-generated content. Tune in to discover how to navigate these complexities and foster a more cohesive and productive work environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#24 - Kaleem Clarkson: Transforming Remote Work Culture
From The Desk with Jada MontemaranoIn this episode of From The Desk, host Jada Montemarano sits down with Kaleem Clarkson, the Chief Operating Officer of BlendMe Inc, to explore the evolution of remote work culture. As a leading voice in remote and hybrid workplace transformation, Kaleem shares his journey from a front-end engineer to a pioneer in remote work consultancy, long before the pandemic made it mainstream.Kaleem delves into the early days of remote work, discussing how a chance encounter at a conference inspired him to focus on building high-functioning distributed workplaces. He offers insights into how fully remote companies often develop stronger cultures by necessity and how his consultancy has helped businesses adapt to this new paradigm. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities that arose during the 2020 remote work boom, including the influx of self-proclaimed remote work experts and the struggle to maintain genuine connections in a virtual environment.Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the importance of intentionality in remote work, the impact of rapid shifts to remote setups on company culture, and strategies for fostering a thriving remote work environment. Whether you're an HR professional, a manager, or a remote worker yourself, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the future of work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADP Numbers and New Look for iCIMS
Rec Tech: the Recruiting Technology PodcastFirst up, a massive move in the early-career space. upGrad, Asia’s integrated skilling and workforce development leader, has officially acquired Internshala, the world’s largest internship platform. https://hrtechfeed.com/upgrad-acquires-worlds-largest-internship-platform/ Moving from early career to global staffing—ManpowerGroup is making a major bet on AI interviewing. They’ve announced a global partnership with AI pioneer Hubert to scale structured, chat-based interviews. We’ve all heard the "AI is taking over" headlines, but Manpower is calling this a "Human-First" approach. The AI handles the initial 24/7 screening—meaning candidates can interview at 2:00 AM if they want—but the final hiring decision stays with the human recruiter. The Takeaway: In a world where 75% of employers struggle to find talent, speed is everything. Manpower claims this moves candidates through the pipeline five times faster. By using the "STAR" method for its AI questions, they’re aiming for fairness and consistency over gut feelings. https://hrtechfeed.com/manpowergroup-adding-ai-interviewing-strategy/ Next, one of the giants of the ATS world is sporting a new look. iCIMS has officially unveiled a brand refresh, featuring a vibrant new purple logo and the tagline: "Powering Exceptional Hiring." But this is more than just a logo change. They’ve launched iCIMS Coalesce AI, which is now the unified name for their entire intelligence layer. The Strategy: iCIMS is moving away from "AI as a feature" and toward "Agentic AI." We’re talking about autonomous agents that don’t just suggest things, but actually take action throughout the hiring journey. It’s a clear signal to the market: iCIMS wants to be seen as the "responsible AI" leader for the enterprise, balancing automation with high-level governance. https://hrtechfeed.com/icims-unveils-new-logo/ Speaking of AI Agents, ADP Marketplace just opened up a whole new wing of their digital storefront dedicated specifically to them. They’ve curated a group of partners—names like G-P, Employ, and Salary.com—to offer AI agents that integrate directly with ADP. These agents can orchestrate workflows, navigate global compliance, and even generate real-time workforce insights. https://hrtechfeed.com/adp-marketplace-adds-ai-agents-from-partners/ The February ADP National Employment Report is out, and it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The private sector added 63,000 jobs—the strongest month since last summer. But here’s the kicker: the "pay premium" for job-switchers has hit a record low. While job-stayers saw a steady 4.5% pay increase, those who jumped ship only saw gains slow to 6.3%. The gap is narrowing fast. Also, the growth is hyper-concentrated; almost all the gains came from Education, Health Services, and Construction, while Professional and Business Services actually shed 30,000 roles. https://recruitingheadlines.com/private-sector-adds-63000-jobs-in-february-as-pay-premium-for-job-switchers-hits-record-low/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 63: Evolving HR for AI and Business Impact
HR SnacksMy guest on this episode, Reid Walsh (CHRO at NEOGOV), talks about the bespoke nature of HR creating business impact and shares a compelling perspective: HR can play a huge role in shaping organizations that embrace and celebrate AI adoption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#25 - Friendships, Friction, and Forward Motion
Champion Blueprint Podcast with George Rogers and Gary BrackettIn this episode of Champion Blueprint, George Rogers and Gary Brackett unpack the tension that comes when growth changes your relationships. Not every friendship is built for every season, and leadership often requires navigating disappointment, friction, and forward motion with maturity. If you’ve ever felt the strain of evolving while others stay the same, this conversation will challenge you to lead your relationships with clarity instead of resentment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#80 - High-Stakes Regulation & The Future of AI Hiring - Presented by CalendarPA.com
The Purple Acorn HR Morning ShowHosts Joel Lalgee, Adam Posner, and Brian Fink dive into the intensifying intersection of federal regulation and workplace technology. The show kicks off with a look at major headlines, including tech workers’ pushback against Anthropic’s supply chain risk label and the massive Al-driven layoffs at Block. The team then welcomes Michael Smith, a veteran in federal investigations, to discuss how leadership teams can navigate the "Regulatory Life Cycle" and manage high-profile state Attorney General enforcement actions to protect their brand and corporate governance. The conversation shifts to the evolution of talent acquisition with Ophir Samson, Founder of Ezra. Drawing on his background at Uber and his expertise in applied math and magic, Ophir explains why traditional resumes are becoming "weak signals" in an AI-saturated world. He shares unique insights into how voice-AI and autonomous vehicle logic are being adapted to create more objective hiring algorithms while avoiding the "uncanny valley" of automated interactions. The episode wraps up with Jody Kaminsky in a "Talk Nerdy with iCIMS" segment and a critical look at how "job hugging" impacts long-term work outcomes. Presented by CalendarPA.com and Talent Tech PR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode #194 Building a Business after Retirement
CareerTALKS PodcastOrlando Haynes welcomes back Nicolette Barrett, a seasoned professional who recently transitioned from a long corporate career to entrepreneurship. They discussed her journey, the challenges of retirement, and how she evolved her business from resume writing to offering comprehensive development solutions. Nicolette shares insights on coaching, supporting retirees, and her vision for the future of iROCK Development Solutions, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and leadership development. Orlando Haynes 🌐Career Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Messaging Best Practices for the Candidate Experience
Rec Tech: the Recruiting Technology PodcastMastering the Message: The Recruiter’s Playbook Communication is where the candidate experience lives or dies. Is your messaging helping you close hires, or is it creating bottlenecks? Join us as we break down the Best Practices for Messaging Your Candidates. We’ll tap into the knowledge of two experienced leaders including Kerry Noone, who runs Employer Brand at Ford Motor Company and Geoff Webb who runs Talent Discovery and Engagement at Canadian based Organon. Expect to walk away with: A timeline for perfect follow-ups. Communication etiquette for the modern age. Strategies to go beyond the ‘Thank You For Apply’ email Who should attend: Talent Acquisition Leaders, HR Directors, Recruiters... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burnout, Content Creation & Employee Advocacy Culture
Workfluencer: Personal Branding & Content CreationContent creation burnout is real, and most professionals don’t realize they’re heading toward it until it’s too late. In this episode, Rhona sits down with internal communications and employee experience consultant Jo Coxhill to talk about content creation burnout, chasing the LinkedIn algorithm, and what happens when that same pressure shows up inside employee advocacy programs. If you’re building a personal brand while running a business, or leading employee-generated content (EGC) strategy, this conversation will challenge how you think about visibility, consistency, and workplace culture. What You’ll Learn Why creator burnout is hard to spot until it’s too late The mental toll of chasing the algorithm When “showing up” starts doing real damage How EGC programs can unintentionally create pressure The difference between healthy advocacy and forced content Why culture must come before content How leaders can build content cultures without burning people out When to step back instead of pushing through Resources Mentioned If you've been wanting to post more consistently on LinkedIn, try Stanley for FREE - https://stanley.stan.store/?ref=rhonabarnettpierce Connect with us Connect with Jo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocoxhill/ Connect with Rhona https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. content creator burnout, creator burnout, LinkedIn burnout, posting on LinkedIn, staying visible at work, employee generated content, EGC programs, employee advocacy, workplace content creation, content creation pressure, creator mental health, burnout at work, internal communications, employer branding, personal branding at work, building in public, content culture, creator economy at work, professional creators, workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Report that Crashed the Market: The 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis
The Jim Stroud PodcastIt started with a single research memo. In February 2026, a scenario paper from a macro firm called Citrini Research sent the Dow plummeting 800 points and triggered phrases like "AI Doomsday" across financial media. But the crash wasn't really about artificial intelligence. It was about something far more personal — the kind of work you do every day. In this episode, Jim Stroud breaks down the concept of the Intelligence Displacement Spiral: the cold, mechanical logic by which AI advancement could quietly dismantle white-collar careers from the inside out. Analysts. Managers. Recruiters. Knowledge workers. The people whose jobs are built on moving, interpreting, and routing information. Sound familiar? This isn't a conversation about factory floors or truck drivers. This is about spreadsheets. About your job description. About the moment you realize that the skills that earned you a premium in the economy for the last 150 years may be the very skills most at risk. But this episode isn't a doom spiral — it's a wake-up call with a roadmap. Jim cuts through the noise of competing narratives (collapse vs. productivity renaissance?) to expose the real shift happening beneath the headlines, and lays out a brutally honest framework for figuring out exactly where you stand. Because the most dangerous response to disruption isn't fear. It's fascination without action. If you work in talent, recruiting, HR, tech, or any knowledge-based field — this one will hit different. 🎙️ Subscribe to **The Recruiting Life** newsletter at https://newsletter.jimstroud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#26 - Intergenerational Insights: Bridging Work Cultures
From X to ZIn this episode of From X to Z, hosts Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnan delve into the evolving dynamics of the workplace, focusing on the generational exchange of ideas and practices. Discover how Gen Z is reshaping work culture and what older generations are learning from their younger colleagues.Danielle and Mervyn explore the shift towards a more balanced work-life approach, as highlighted by the experiences of Soraya Easterbrook, founder of SEO agency Dig Heads. Learn how Gen Z's prioritization of personal well-being over traditional work norms is influencing companies to embrace a more holistic work environment.Join the conversation as they discuss the importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering intergenerational harmony within organizations. This episode offers valuable insights into how different generations can collaborate effectively, creating a workplace culture that values both productivity and personal growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI, Reverse Recruiting & the Talent Portfolio Manager
The Human CapitalistIs reverse recruiting a real career service — or a clever racket preying on job seekers? And what happens to recruiting when AI takes over the top of the funnel? In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Fink, one of LinkedIn’s most respected recruiting voices, to unpack two disruptive trends reshaping the talent industry. We dive into the reverse recruiting craze — where candidates pay recruiters to apply for them — and why Brian calls it “a racket in new packaging.” I also share insights from my Fast Company article on the Talent Portfolio Manager (TPM) — a next-gen model redefining the recruiter’s role in the age of AI. What you’ll learn: Why the “AI eliminates 75% of resumes” stat is misleading — and who profits from that fear The ethical problem with charging both candidates and companies What a Talent Portfolio Manager does — and why it’s the future of recruiting Why internal mobility is broken (and who’s hoarding the fix) The 30-minute daily habit that keeps Brian and me ahead of the AI curve Timestamps:0:00 — Intro & Meet Brian Fink2:00 — Reverse Recruiting: Trend or Racket?6:30 — The “AI Eliminates 75%” Myth9:00 — The Ethics of Reverse Recruiting15:00 — The Talent Portfolio Manager Model20:00 — Internal Mobility & Ownership30:00 — HR’s Non-Negotiables in the Age of AI35:00 — Daily Learning Habits & Staying Ahead39:00 — Sprint Recruiting + Closing Thoughts 📌 Connect with Brian Fink: linkedin.com/in/brian-fink | @TheBrianFink on Substack, Instagram, and X📌 Connect with Trent Cotton: linkedin.com/in/trentcotton | trentcotton.com/blog 🔔 Subscribe for weekly intelligence briefings on the business of people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#120- Scaling Smarter with Austin Moore: How to Grow Without Breaking Your Business
Digital Recruiter PodcastSUMMARY Austin Moore didn’t set out to build a $17 million staffing company. Like most recruiters, he fell into the industry after leaving a cubicle job and a short stint in car sales, looking for something more performance-driven. What he found was a career that rewarded grit, sales discipline, and resilience. After cutting his teeth at firms like Medix, Robert Half, and Beacon Hill, Austin eventually made the leap into entrepreneurship, launching his own healthcare staffing company just before COVID reshaped the market overnight. What followed was a high-stakes growth journey. After nearly losing everything when hiring froze, Austin landed a breakout client that helped him scale rapidly. Within a few years, his firm grew to seven figures per month, topping out at $17 million in annual revenue. In this episode, he and Clark unpack what actually drove that growth, building a real sales engine, protecting top performers, avoiding expansion traps, and learning when to say no to revenue that doesn’t fit your model. The conversation also dives into Austin’s current work at Strategy Ladders and Talent Labs, where he helps founders scale smarter. From leveraging high-performing talent in Latin America to navigating AI disruption, Austin emphasizes one consistent theme: recruiting is still a relationship business. The firms that win won’t be the ones chasing every tool, they’ll be the ones doubling down on fundamentals, leadership, and human connection. For recruiters looking to scale beyond seven figures without burning out or breaking their business, this episode is a tactical and mindset-driven roadmap. AUSTIN'S BIO Austin Moore is a former healthcare staffing founder who scaled his agency from zero to $17 million in annual revenue in just a few years. After exiting the business, he joined Strategy Ladders as a strategic advisor, helping founders grow through stronger sales systems, operational discipline, and leadership development. He also leads Talent Labs, the recruiting arm of Strategy Ladders, where he helps agencies and growing companies hire high-performing talent — with a strong focus on Latin America sourcing and support roles. Austin is known for his direct approach to sales, commitment to fundamentals, and belief that the future of recruiting belongs to those who lean into human connection. Connect with Austin on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinmoore1/ Stop wasting money on lead-gen tools that don’t work. Learn how top recruiters are winning on LinkedIn with content, messaging, and automation—without spamming. Get live coaching, ongoing support, and a proven system to drive revenue inside Digital Recruiter Bootcamp. Join now: DigitalRecruiter.io/bootcamp Get the best and most current digital recruiting insights, tips, and strategies every Sunday—straight to your inbox, for free: https://www.digitalrecruiter.io/drnewsletter For more information about Digital Recruiter, click HERE ---> https://linktr.ee/thedigitalrecruiter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#23 - Mike Peditto: Navigating the Job Market Challenges
From The Desk with Jada MontemaranoIn this episode of From the Desk, host Jada Montemarano sits down with Mike Peditto, the founder of Realistic Recruiting and the voice behind the Realistic Recruiter, to explore the current challenges and opportunities in the job market. With a following of over 400,000, Mike shares his candid insights on hiring and job searching, making him a pivotal voice for both job seekers and recruiters navigating these tumultuous times.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the realities of the job search landscape, as Mike discusses the inspiration behind his platform, the Realistic Recruiter, and his new book, 'Yes, You're Being Judged, A Realist's Guide to Job Searching'. He shares personal anecdotes from his own career journey, including how he turned a layoff into an opportunity to help others.The conversation delves into the challenges recruiters face today, including the impact of AI and automation, and how these factors are reshaping hiring processes. Mike also offers actionable advice for job seekers, emphasizing the importance of adapting strategies to focus on available opportunities. Tune in for a frank discussion that sheds light on both sides of the hiring table, offering practical tips for anyone looking to navigate the job market more effectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 62: M&A Explosion in HR Tech
HR SnacksIf you haven't noticed, there's been quite an uptick in M&A activity across the HR tech space over the past 12+ months. And it's not just flashy AI startups; HR service firms, payroll bureaus, and mid-sized legacy players are getting scooped up in the market. My guest, Steve Malley, discusses this growing trend and how it's impacting buyers and the larger platform vendors in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Humand and Elly Land Funding
Rec Tech: the Recruiting Technology PodcastStory 1: Humand’s $66 Million Bet on the Deskless Workforce https://hrtechfeed.com/humand-secures-66-million-series-a-to-revolutionize-the-deskless-workforce-with-ai/ Story 2: ZipRecruiter’s Rough 2025 Financials Story 3: WorkWhile Launches the 'AI Talent Coach' Story 4: Elly Debuts with $8M to End 'Tool Fatigue' Story 5: Workday’s $9.5 Billion Year of AI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#11 - Kimberly Prescott: Facts Over Emotion - Mastering Tough Conversations and Investigations
By HR for HRKimberly Prescott, founder of Prescott HR, joins the podcast to discuss the critical role of courage and confidence in the HR profession. Drawing from her background in the Air Force and her experience as a minority in corporate environments, Kimberly explains why HR professionals must move past the desire to "be liked" and instead focus on providing honest, fact-based feedback. She argues that avoiding difficult conversations erodes trust and lowers performance standards across the entire organization. Kimberly also introduces her "Hierarchy of Needs" for HR, asserting that strategic initiatives like culture statements cannot succeed without a solid foundation of clear policies, manager training, and consistent practices. Using the analogy of a construction site, she warns against hanging "fine art" before the drywall is up. The episode concludes with practical advice on managing investigations and coaching managers to handle conflict with clarity and accountability.Hosted by Jocelyn King, founder and CEO of VirgilHR. VirgilHR provides instant, trusted answers to HR compliance questions—helping teams navigate federal, state, and local employment laws with accuracy and ease. To learn more, visit www.virgilhr.com and follow Jocelyn on LinkedIn for ongoing guidance and industry updates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#24 - DEI at a Crossroads: Fear, Fatigue, or the Future?
Champion Blueprint Podcast with George Rogers and Gary BrackettWhat happened to DEI? In this candid Champion Blueprint conversation, we unpack how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion shifted from a strategic priority to a cultural tension point. What was created to expand access for qualified, overlooked talent has, in many organizations, become reactive, politicized, or driven by fear. This episode reframes the conversation. We discuss what DEI was meant to be, where it lost clarity, and how leaders can move forward with both merit and humanity at the center. Inclusion without excellence creates instability, and excellence without inclusion creates limitation. If you care about culture, performance, and leading with conviction in uncertain times, this conversation is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#79 - Navigating the New Employer Leverage - Presented by CalendarPA.com
The Purple Acorn HR Morning ShowThis episode of The HR Morning Show tackles the complex intersection of artificial intelligence, human judgment, and the shifting power dynamics of the 2026 labor market. Hosts Danielle Farage, John Baldino and Trent Cotton will dive into the emergence of "workslop"—productivity losses caused by low-quality AI outputs—and discuss how HR leaders must shift from simply using AI to managing its ethical and qualitative risks. They will also break down the latest labor market data, exploring a "low-hire, low-fire" environment where employers have regained leverage, forcing TA teams to pivot their strategies toward managing high applicant volumes rather than candidate scarcity.The show features a heavy-hitting guest lineup focused on the human element of technology. Ron Fish will join the program to discuss the "Hidden Cost of AI in Hiring," specifically how automated tools can systematically exclude disabled and underrepresented talent if not properly audited. Additionally, Damon Grothe will provide a roadmap for training hiring managers to become confident decision-makers, while a special "Talk Nerdy with ICIMS" segment features Elyse Ryan sharing a blueprint for the "Augmented Sourcer" to bridge the speed and intelligence gap in regulated industries. Visit our sponsors: Talent Tech PR and CalendarPA.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Candidates in the Loop | Doug Berg from Match2
Rec Tech: the Recruiting Technology PodcastTodays Guest is Doug Berg from https://match2.com/https://match2.com/. The recruiting industry is broken. Companies have built one-sided systems that leave candidates frustrated and in the dark. One candidate applied to 100 jobs and heard back from only 44. The other 56 companies ghosted them completely. Here's what's worse: 80% of candidates who are a great fit for jobs don't even apply. Why? Because they know they'll never hear back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode #193 High-Achiever Burnout!
CareerTALKS PodcastAndrea Yacub Macek, a clarity and burnout recovery coach for high-achieving women. We discussed Andrea's journey from aspiring doctor to coach, the deeper implications of burnout, and the 3B method she developed to help women reclaim their lives and careers. The conversation explores the common themes among high achievers, the challenges they face, and the importance of proactive strategies to prevent burnout. Andrea Macek 🌐AYM Consulting Orlando Haynes 🌐Career Capital AI-Powered Platform Turning Documented Work into Career Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Shadow Labor Market: Paying to Be Seen
The Jim Stroud PodcastWhat if everything you believed about how hiring works… was only half the story? The job market has always had rules. Apply. Interview. Get picked. Simple, right? But something is quietly changing beneath the surface — and it's making a lot of people uncomfortable. Job seekers are now paying recruiters. Not to polish their résumé. Not to prep for interviews. They're paying someone to pitch them — to walk into companies and say, this person is worth your time. Is that exploitation? Is it strategy? Or is it just the job market finally dropping the pretense that the best candidate always wins? In this special report, we're pulling back the curtain on reverse recruiting, the rise of AI-managed job applications, and a parallel labor economy that's already reshaping how opportunity gets distributed — whether you're paying attention or not. This one hits differently. If you work in recruiting, lead a hiring team, or you're out there trying to land your next role — this conversation is already affecting you. You just might not know it yet. The question we're asking this episode? What happens when visibility becomes something you can buy? The answer might change how you see everything. ... Subscribe to The Recruiting Life newsletter - Clarity on what's happening now and next in the world of work. https://newsletter.jimstroud.com Podcast inspiration: "Job Hunters Are So Desperate That They’re Paying to Get Recruited" by Wall Street Journal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices















