Bob 'n Joyce Talk HR 'n OD

In this second part of our resiliency deep dive, Bob ‘n Joyce take a close look at MIT Sloan’s latest take on what makes a culture truly resilient. Do we agree with their insights? Mostly. But spoiler alert: we still like our list better. We break down the key conditions MIT Sloan says drive resiliency and stack them up against our lived experience in the trenches of culture work. The result? A thoughtful, and at times feisty, side-by-side review. Here’s a taste of what they recommend: • Flexible work schedules that actually work • Skill-based approaches to culture change (not more slogans) • Turning skeptics into champions • Learning from mistakes—really • Letting employees shape their own roles • Prioritizing honesty and psychological safety We wrap with a call to action: What’s your resiliency playbook? Come on in, grab a snack, and let’s keep it real.

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce dive into how to create and sustain organizational resiliency—a must-have competency in today’s fast-changing business world. We kick things off with a little game we call “learning.” First, we share our personal and professional takes on what makes a workplace truly resilient. Then, in the next episode, we’ll check in with the experts at MIT Sloan Management Review to see how our perspectives stack up. Some of the ideas we unpack today: • Getting real about the challenge • Community – We are ‘in this’ together • Focusing on excellence and winning • Embracing risk—and yes, learning from failure So grab a snack, pull up a chair, and join the conversation. And hey, we’d love to hear your take on resiliency too.

After we hit “stop” on our last episode, Tight Ship or Jazz Band?, we realized the conversation wasn’t over. The tension between discipline and flexibility kept tugging at us — and stirred up a few stories (and laughs) we hadn’t yet shared. So we’re back, diving deeper into the power and pitfalls of routine, the magic of improvisation, and why finding that balance matters more than ever in today’s workplace. In this follow-up episode, Bob ‘n Joyce: • Unpack why some habits feel safe but may be limiting innovation • Talk about real-life moments when “flugidity” made all the difference • Explore how leaders can create cultures that flex without falling apart • Challenge listeners to reexamine what structure they’re clinging to — and why Whether you’re running a tight ship or playing in a jazz band, this encore conversation is for anyone trying to lead with more ease, creativity, and courage.

Bob ‘n Joyce riff on how much structure is too much — and when it’s time to improvise. In this episode, they dive into the ongoing tug-of-war between discipline and flexibility — habits that create stability vs. the adaptability that sparks innovation. Once upon a time, businesses prized routine, rituals, and predictability. But in today’s fast-moving world, research suggests agility and openness may be even more crucial. So, which is it? The truth may lie somewhere in the messy, magical middle. In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce: • Coin a new word: flugidity – the courage to challenge routines that no longer serve the business • Reveal how rigid habits and SOPs can create dangerous blind spots • Explore what’s changed in the workplace to shift the balance toward flexibility • Talk about the magic of mastering your craft and dancing in the moment If your weekly ritual includes tuning in to us — well, that’s one habit we fully support. So grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s jump in.

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce explore what it really takes to create a workplace where people thrive — and it’s a lot more than free snacks and ping pong tables. They dive into the idea of on-site wellness centers, where employees can unplug, recharge, and access real support. Imagine a workplace that offers: ✅ Manicures and massage therapy ✅ On-site counseling for burnout or stress ✅ Flu and COVID shots without leaving the office ✅ Yoga, dance, and meditation sessions Bob ‘n Joyce make the case that this isn’t a far-out fantasy. Companies like SAS Institute in Cary, NC, have been doing it for over 40 years — and it’s a big reason they consistently rank among the best places to work in America. Tune in for fresh ideas on how your company can move beyond surface perks and start building a true culture of care. Come on in, grab a snack, and welcome!

In this episode, Bob ’n Joyce explore the common practice of relying on the same group of people—time and again—to get important work done. Joyce calls them the “spoiled brats,” while Bob refers to them as the “usual suspects” or “chosen ones.” The problem? This habit unintentionally sidelines the talent in waiting—the wild cards and up-and-comers—who miss out on critical development opportunities. We dive into practical ways to tap the full potential of your organization by broadening access to special projects and growth experiences beyond the usual favorites. In this episode: • Eye-opening stories about the surprising success of newbies and wild cards • A breakdown of a common flaw in talent planning that keeps this pattern alive • Why hands-on project work often beats traditional training for impact If your company is stuck picking from the same short list—and it's holding you back—this episode is your wake-up call. So pull up a chair, grab your favorite snack, and let’s shake things up together.

In today’s episode, Bob ‘n Joyce pick up where they left off in episode 185, diving deeper into how leaders can navigate turbulent and unsettling times with intention and heart. The key? Leaders must first ground themselves before engaging in conversations about what the business needs to move forward. But how do you get grounded? Where do you start, and with whom? And how can leaders truly support their teams—not just to survive, but to thrive? Here are a few hints to guide the discussion: • Start by scanning the environment before jumping into action. • Never underestimate the power of a meaningful conversation. • Speak the truth—sugarcoating doesn’t soothe, truth does. • Counter exhaustion by encouraging play and nurturing the system. Like episode 185, there are no neat bows here—just real, practical ideas to chew on. So come on in. Grab a soothing snack or beverage. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob 'n Joyce sit down with someone who really knows how to spark transformation from the inside out—Ernesto Gómez Arzapalo. He’s worn a lot of hats—OD consultant, c-suite exec, academic, serial entrepreneur—and somehow manages to still be one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. Ernesto brings the kind of wisdom you only get from decades in the trenches—leading people-first cultural overhauls for companies with tens of thousands of employees, while also launching his own ventures and guest lecturing at a top-tier business school. We dig into the ideas behind his new book, Regrowth – How Organizations Can Overcome Stalling by Unlocking Their People's Potential, and trust us: this isn’t your typical corporate jargon. Ernesto drops practical, sometimes surprising insights that can help any organization—or individual—get unstuck and thrive. This convo is full of stories, laughter, and that rare mix of head and heart. You’ll hear how Ernesto helped shift cultures inside massive companies, why unlocking human potential isn’t just HR’s job, and how his journey from Mexico to MIT continues to shape his work and life. So grab a coffee. Maybe a snack. And come hang out with us—you’ll leave this one with a full brain and a full heart. 🎧 Listen in and learn: • Why most culture change efforts fall flat—and how to do it differently • What it really means to lead through ambiguity • How to move from stuck to thriving (yes, it’s possible) • Why Ernesto believes in “regrowth,” not just “growth” ✨ Connect with Ernesto: •Website : aspenmindset1.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernesto-gómez-arzapalo-8783ab43/

In this episode, Bob and Joyce explore the critical importance of handling employee terminations the right way. When done poorly, these moments don’t just affect the individuals involved—they send shockwaves through the entire organization, damaging culture and trust. The conversation is sparked by the troubling trend of mass layoffs via impersonal emails, as seen recently in the U.S. government. With such cold, transactional approaches becoming more common, are we at risk of normalizing workplace incivility? While layoffs and terminations are sometimes necessary due to business demands, how they’re handled speaks volumes about an organization's values and leadership. This is where HR and OD professionals must step up to ensure fairness, dignity, and alignment with company culture. Grab a snack and join us as we dive into this crucial conversation.

In this episode, Bob and Joyce reflect on the evolving role of HR and OD amidst today’s profound global disruptions. Drawing inspiration from Meg Wheatley—author and organizational wellness expert—we explore the concept of creating islands of sanity in a world where many feel isolated, ignored, or overwhelmed. We discuss practical ways to build strong, sustainable work communities that foster possibility, even in the face of chaos and negativity. About Meg Wheatley’s Book, Who Do We Choose to Be? “This book is born of my desire to summon leaders in this time of profound disruption—to reclaim leadership as a noble profession that cultivates possibility and humanness in the midst of fear and turmoil.” The work ahead is not for the faint of heart, but you’re not alone. As your OD partners, we’ll be with you every step of the way. So come on in, grab a snack, and let’s dive in. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce welcome Dr. Rob Lion, a strategist, professor, and expert in workplace culture, leadership development, and performance improvement. With a passion for helping students, business leaders, and HR/OD practitioners grow and thrive, Rob blends academic rigor with real-world experience to create sustainable, high-performance practices. His consultancy, Black River Performance Management, is built on the philosophy that success comes from applying proven models and strategies—what he calls his tools. As he puts it, “Where science meets practice.” Join us as Dr. Rob shares insights from 20+ years of experience—what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how organizations can cultivate thriving workplace cultures. Come on in, grab a snack, and enjoy the conversation! About Dr. Rob Lion Dr. Rob Lion is a seasoned expert in human resource development and organizational behavior. As a professor at Idaho State University, he has mentored the next generation of leaders while consulting with executives, business owners, and community leaders to build people-centric, high-performing organizations. Through Black River Performance Management, Rob helps organizations enhance leadership effectiveness, optimize team performance, and tackle complex workplace challenges. His evidence-based, psychology-driven approach ensures measurable, lasting results. Interested in how Dr. Rob can support your organization? Get in touch: 🔗 blackriverpm.com/contact

In today’s episode, Bob ‘n Joyce dive into how people react to change—especially in the workplace. If you’re a change agent or work in organizational development, you won’t be surprised by resistance to change. But what may surprise you are the practical steps you can take to minimize chaos and increase the chances of success. With most organizational changes falling short of their intended benefits, understanding how to navigate resistance is crucial. The key? Recognizing that people respond to change in vastly different ways—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. So come on in, grab a snack, and let’s talk about the messy, unpredictable, and sometimes surprising world of change. Welcome!

In this episode, we tackle a conversation we’d rather avoid—but know we must have. How can leaders create the conditions for constructive dialogue in divisive times? Do they take a stand based on their company’s vision, values, and business needs, even if it alienates some? Or do they stay silent, wary of the risks in today’s political climate? We don’t claim to have “the” answer, but we do offer ideas on how to: • Prepare people for difficult conversations. • Take it slow—without turning it into an initiative or labeling it. • Act once you’re grounded in what’s real and what the company needs. • Foster a space for candid, honest dialogue. No neatly wrapped solutions here—just real talk. We think you’ll enjoy it anyway. Come on in, grab a snack, and welcome!

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce explore the power of deliberate and intentional leadership. Too often, we miss opportunities to maximize our impact by reacting impulsively to the chaos around us. Instead of leading with purpose, we get swept up in the moment. Leading with intention means consciously choosing our words and actions to shape outcomes rather than merely responding to circumstances. This practice doesn’t come naturally—it requires patience, self-awareness, and the ability to step back and see the bigger picture. We share real-world examples and practical strategies to help you cultivate intentional leadership in both your professional and personal life. So, are you ready to take control of how you show up as a leader? Join us for this insightful conversation—grab a snack, settle in, and let’s dive in!

In today’s episode, Bob ‘n Joyce welcome Mark Carpenter, author and leadership consultant, to discuss his work helping leaders bring their full humanity to work. Mark’s leadership premise is that there are leadership positions and there are leaders and that the two should not be confused. They may coexist together but too often they don’t. Mark helps front line leaders and executives connect the dots between a healthy business and the way that they lead. In today’s episode, you will discover: - What it means to lead like a person - Common mistakes in leadership development - Mark’s three essential leadership skills - Actionable ideas for your business Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome! About Mark Carpenter: Mark’s passion is helping others achieve more of their potential, and uses his three decades of experience to provide perspective and guidance to others. He loves speaking, facilitating, coaching, consulting in communications, leadership development, motivation, change management, and storytelling as a leadership skill. His Master Storytelling program helps individuals and teams turn their real-life experiences into stories that teach, lead, sell, and inspire. Mark spent 10 years as an adjunct professor in communications, and often spoke at a wide variety of conferences for industries ranging from health care to manufacturing to project management to public relations and more. He is a master certified trainer for Crucial Learning courses: Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue, Crucial Conversations for Accountability, Influencer, and Getting Things Done. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-carpenter-0b55221/

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce discuss the findings of a Strategy + Business Newsletter article on the 5 qualities that leaders must possess to succeed in today’s world. These qualities imply a shift from the metrics of efficiency and performance to managing the more intangible aspects of the business such as governance, environmental impact, and a positive work culture. We muse about the implications of these new qualities on HR/OD and what new leadership models may emerge to guide the next generation. What we know for sure is that what was once linear and concrete about leading is becoming fungible and murky. Welcome to world as we all know it. For those of you who are interested, here is a link to the article: https://www.strategy-business.com/article/The-five-new-foundational-qualities-of-effective-leadership Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob’nJoyce talk with Ryan Englin about what businesses can do to fully leverage the power of the people closest to the work. Englin is a gritty, no bull coach who helps business owners get real about what’s needed to build strong teams that drive business success. Some of Ryan’s thought-provoking insights include: Being authentic to your brand, even if it’s edgy and doesn't appeal to everyone. The importance of building a strong connection between the culture you want and the people you hire. Working from the top-down and bottom-up to make positive change stick. Teasing out the difference between “training” and “learning” and why both are important. What sets Englin apart is his passion for helping small business owners do a lot of the small things that make a big difference. Business big and small will benefit from his wisdom. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome! If you'd like to meet with Ryan Englin, you can book a complimentary discover call at www.corematters.com

Today, Joris Merks-Benjaminsen joins us from the Netherlands to share his work helping companies cultivate leaders who emphasize both accountability and human connection to achieve extraordinary results. Joris is an award-winning author, brand and marketing expert, successful business leader, and entrepreneur. In 2022, after 22 years in various corporate roles, Joris launched his company, Managing without Power. He also wrote a book by the same title. Joris personifies the key elements of his work - he is a very nice guy with an edge. He is also a smart, insightful and humble person. If you would like to talk with Joris about what he can do for your team or organization, you can reach him through his website: https://www.managingwithoutpower.com (https://www.managingwithoutpower.com) Let’s get started. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

Bob’ n Joyce look ahead to 2025 and share what workplace pundits tell us what we can expect this year. Instead of regurgitating a boring list, they synthesize them down to the 4 biggies, and then play their “What-if?” game to stimulate our thinking about actions we can take. There are some pleasant surprises about what the experts* predict resulting in more productive, healthy and fulfilling workplaces. As the title of this podcast implies, the key is to have courage to take action. The courage comes from knowing that in these fluid times, not everything will work. Come on in. Grab a healthy snack. Welcome! • Based on Deloitte’s report in Global Human Capital Trends

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce put the spotlight on OD/HR practitioners and their role helping organizations navigate these exhilarating but terrifying times. Institutions, governments, and people worldwide are being challenged in ways not seen before. What can organizational development and HR people do help their companies thrive in these times? And what can we do on this podcast to support you? Today, we attempt to answer these questions. Our goal is to be an island of sanity you can visit each week to get inspired and recharged. That why we have showed up every week for over three years. And in doing so, we get ourselves inspired and recharged. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!