Primal HR Podcast

Managing Growth and Complexity Across States

Remote work and distributed teams have completely changed the HR landscape. In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore the challenges of navigating compliance, labor laws, remote workforce management, and state-by-state regulations in an increasingly complex workplace environment. What we get into: • The growing complexity of multi-state HR compliance • How AI tools can support HR teams • Why HRIS platforms matter more than ever • The importance of verifying compliance information • Why HR professionals need trusted support networks Short conversation. Practical insight. Stay connected: Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com [https://primalhrpodcast.com] Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com [hello@primalhrpodcast.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/]

Rethinking Work and Skill-Based Hiring

What happens when companies stop designing jobs and start designing work? In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore how organizations can rethink hiring, workforce planning, and team structure in a world where technology, AI, and business needs are changing fast. What we get into: • What companies can learn from Blockbuster and Netflix • Why skill-based hiring matters more than job titles • Rethinking workforce planning and team structure • The growing role of AI in hiring and operations • How organizations can build more adaptable teams Short conversation. Future-focused thinking. Stay connected: Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com [https://primalhrpodcast.com] Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com [hello@primalhrpodcast.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/]

Networking That Actually Feels Human

Networking does not have to feel awkward or transactional. In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham share a more practical, relationship-first approach to networking and explain how authentic conversations can lead to real opportunities, meaningful connections, and long-term professional relationships. What we get into: • Why relationship-first networking works • How Terry and Leslie met through networking • Better ways to start and follow up on conversations • Networking tips for job seekers, consultants, and entrepreneurs • How to stay top of mind without being pushy Short conversation. Real talk. Stay connected: Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com [https://primalhrpodcast.com] Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com [hello@primalhrpodcast.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/]

Navigating the Political Climate in the Workplace

Welcome to Season 2 of Primal HR Podcast! Politics and polarization do not stop at the office door. In this season two premiere, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham discuss how HR leaders and organizations can navigate difficult conversations, workplace tension, and political division while still maintaining respectful, productive environments. What we get into: • How politics impacts workplace culture • Respectful communication and psychological safety • When HR should intervene • Supporting employees during stressful times • Why leadership sets the tone for workplace culture Short conversation. Real talk. Stay connected: Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com [https://primalhrpodcast.com] Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com [hello@primalhrpodcast.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/]

Fractional vs In-House HR: What You Need to Know

Should you hire an in-house HR leader or bring in fractional support? In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham break down how each approach works and when it makes the most sense, especially for growing companies. What we get into: • The difference between fractional and in-house HR • Cost and flexibility considerations • When each model makes sense • Common mistakes when hiring HR too early Short conversation. Practical insight. Stay connected: Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com [https://primalhrpodcast.com] Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com [hello@primalhrpodcast.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/]