In The Works

In episode 12, we tackle the big topic of Labor Unions.  Jenn and Ryan have known they were on opposite sides of this issue, so they were ready for battle.  Jenn has more experience with public sector unions while Ryan's experience has been in the private sector.  Jenn starts off with a brief history of labor unions and why they got started.  We then dive into the issue of declining membership and laws that have been enacted to limit some of the power of unions (also contributing to their decline). Ryan does a brief description of what happens when employees look to form a union and the process of collective bargaining. We cover how to get rid of unions (decertification) in depth just in case you are looking to get rid of your union.  Employers are not allowed to help you in this process and it can be very confusing.  Don't hesitate to reach out to us via Facebook if you are looking to get out.  We conclude with our personal thoughts (if they were not evident by this point)

In this fun episode we explore the very timely topic of Free Speech in the Workplace.  Many employees believe that they have the right to say whatever they want (including telling racially-offensive jokes) because of their First Amendment right to free speech.  Are they right? We break this episode down into 3 parts. First, a general definition of free speech and the First Amendment. Second, we look at laws that specifically protect certain speech in the workplace.  The focus here is on Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), Religious Speech, and State Laws. Third, we look at laws that specifically limit speech in the workplace.  The focus here is on HIPAA, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Insider Trading and Trade Secret laws, and Whistle Blowing. Enjoy!

In this episode we explore the very popular topic of work-life balance.  We are back on location this week due to a very generous invite from 2 of our listeners.   We explore the definition of work-life balance and then discuss some practical examples of our experiences with the topic.  As usual, we will look at this topic from the view of the for-profit and not-for-profit world.  In our discussion we also talk about what is reasonable for employees to expect when it comes to work-life balance.   Enjoy!

In episode 9, Ryan and Jenn lay out some professional tips for those interested in making an internal career move.  Internal career moves can take the form of a move up into a leadership role, taking a lateral move to another department, or expanded responsibilities in your current role.  The biggest point made in this episode is that you must take on a "do it yourself" attitude.  Don't wait to be recognized; take initiative.   Ryan and Jenn's 9 Tips: 1. Make your intentions known.  2. Seek out a mentor. 3. Take on more responsibility. 4. Build a network. 5. Create your image. 6. Seek outside feedback. 7. Make your boss look good. 8. Be knowledgeable.  9. Always be thinking about cost savings.   And, the 4 skills the will propel your career: 1. Communication. 2. Project Management 3. Business Acumen 4. Emotional Intelligence    

Ever wonder how organizations determine what they are going to pay their employees?  On this episode Ryan and Jenn talk about organizational pay systems.  We begin with a general overview of the structure of a pay system.  Next, we give you some things to think about when considering an offer of employment.  We end this episode with thoughts on internal offers (promotions or transfers).  Check us out on Facebook to see our wine selections at In The Works.   

Jenn has the day off, so Ryan is talking with Jan Picard, a superstar Financial Advisor.  Jan (not Jenn) is here to share her expertise on using your money wisely.  We talk about planning for your future and whether contributing to your workplace retirement plan is a good idea.   Today we are enjoying a 2015 Syrah from Cline Winery (Sonoma County).  Super yummy!

In this episode Ryan and Jenn break down different types of Medical Reimbursement Plans.  Specifically, we cover Health Flexible Spending (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA). Ryan is drinking a 2014 Chateau Buisson-Redon Bourdeaux. Jenn has a One Two Punch Riesling.

In Episode 4, we discuss some tips when using your health insurance.  Doing a little research and reading your Summary Plan Description can go a long way.  We also cover some problems that people encounter when using their insurance and how to avoid those mistakes.  Of course, we each have a bottle of wine open.  Jenn partakes in a Candy Apple wine from Armstrong Orchard and Winery.  Ryan enjoys a bottle of Ransom Reds Table Wine sent in from our #1 listener, Lesley.  This table wine is a blend of 5 grapes:  Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Grenache, Tempranillo, and Dolcetto.  Yummy!

It is important for employees to take the time to understand their employer provided benefit plans.  For some, though, the mere mention of benefits makes them cringe.  We start off with some basic vocabulary and then get into a list of 10 places you can start to just be a better benefits consumer.  This is the first episode in a series on Benefits. Jenn indulges (greatly?) in her Jam Jar Shiraz while Ryan is disgusted by the cough syrup taste of his Ruby Port so he drinks a Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer.   Enjoy!

Why are employees still being paid at the Federal Minimum Wage?  Why can't companies just pay their workers what they are worth?  We explore the topic of raising the minimum wage and also add in some tips for how to ask for a wage increase at work.  The wine is flowing for this controversial topic.  

Did you know some employees have a lack of trust in their Human Resources representatives?  Maybe employees have higher expectations of HR than they should.  In this episode we discuss an article by JJ Keller entitled "Why Employees Don't Trust HR."  And in a surprise twist Jenn shares wine with Ryan.   

For first-time listeners to our podcast, this is an overview of what this podcast is all about.  Consider listening to this episode before diving into our topic-specific episodes.  

Do you struggle with what is appropriate for workplace conversations?  Is someone always just wanting to chat with you when clearly you are busy?  In this episode Ryan and Jenn break down appropriate workplace conversations.  Which topics are okay and which topics are taboo.  We will also give you some tips for those times you find yourself being interrupted by the person in the office who always just likes to sit and talk.   Remember to follow us on Facebook.