Looking back, the warning signs always seem obvious. But in the moment? It's surprisingly easy to explain them away.

In this episode of HR Stew, Regina and Holly share real stories about the interview moments, hiring decisions, and workplace experiences that should have set off alarm bells, but… didn't. From candidates who oversold themselves to employees who slowly revealed their true colors, the team discusses why we ignore red flags, the lessons learned, and how experience changes the way we evaluate people and organizations.

Whether you're interviewing candidates, starting a new job, or reflecting on decisions you've made throughout your career, this episode is a reminder that not every red flag predicts disaster, but they're always worth paying attention to.

Employees want transparency and leaders want trust. But somewhere between open communication and complete oversharing, things can get messy fast.

In this episode of HR Stew, hosts Regina and Holly tackle one of the most complicated balancing acts in leadership and HR: workplace transparency. How much should employees really know about layoffs, company finances, leadership disagreements, promotions, and salary decisions? And when does transparency stop building trust and start creating panic?

The conversation explores how employee expectations have changed over the years, why modern workplaces demand more openness, how social media and instant communication have reshaped workplace culture, & more!

They close the biggest deals, hit every target, and look like a dream on paper. But behind the scenes, they may be creating tension, damaging morale, and pushing others out the door. In this episode of HR Stew, Regina and Holly take on the complicated reality of toxic high performers and the uncomfortable question many organizations eventually face: how much bad behavior is too much when someone delivers results?

The conversation digs into what really happens when companies prioritize performance over people, and how that decision quietly impacts culture, retention, and trust across a team. If you’ve ever worked with someone who delivers results but leaves a trail of frustration behind them, this episode will feel all too familiar. Because in the end, culture isn’t built by your top performer, it’s built by what you choose to tolerate.

For years, workplace conversations have focused on protecting employees (and for good reason). But what happens when the employee is actually in the wrong?

In this episode of HR Stew, Regina and Holly tackle one of the most uncomfortable topics in HR: accountability. From the rise of workplace complaints and policy loopholes to managers who are afraid to discipline and employees who confuse discomfort with unfairness, we’re talking about the tension many workplaces are facing right now.

You nailed the interview… so why is the offer taking forever? And what really happens behind the scenes before that offer letter hits your inbox?

In this episode of HR Stew, Regina break down the job offer process from the HR side, from internal approvals and compensation alignment to background checks, budget changes, and the dreaded last-minute rescinded offer. They share real stories of offers falling apart, negotiation gone wrong, candidates ghosting after signing, and why counteroffers rarely fix the real problem.

Whether you’re hiring or job hunting, this episode gives you an honest look at the awkward, messy, and very human side of job offers.

Because how you handle the offer says a lot about how you’ll handle the job.

This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and is not to be used as legal advice.

In this episode of HR Stew, host Holly and Regina discuss one of the most complicated parts of workplace culture: relationships. From best friend coworkers to hired family members and even workplace romances, the team explores when personal connections can be a strength and when they risk crossing the line into favoritism, drama, or even full-blown nepotism.

If you've ever wondered how to navigate workplace relationships while keeping your culture fair, transparent, and drama-free, this episode is for you.

From AI acceleration to sweeping legal shifts and deeply personal journeys, 2025 was a year that changed everything. In this episode of HR Stew, hosts Regina and Holly reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons of the past year in both business and life.

Dive into: The biggest workplace wins (and cringes) involving AI, policy shake-ups and what they mean for 2026, & A candid discussion on boundaries, burnout, and redefining productivity.

Join us for an honest and insightful wrap-up of a transformative year, with laughs, vulnerability, and a look ahead at what’s next in HR and beyond.

As the season of thanks rolls in, HR Stew is serving up a full plate of appreciation, and yes, a few awkward moments too. In this episode, Regina and Holly explore the many flavors of workplace thanks, from micro-appreciations in hybrid teams to public shout-outs and cold, hard cash.

What makes gratitude meaningful vs. what makes it fall flat? When does a bonus boost morale, and when does it feel like a bribe? And is it ever okay for a manager’s spouse to call in about a write-up? Whether you're a Chief Pickle, a PTO enthusiast, or someone who just wants to feel seen, this episode digs into the power of authentic recognition and how it shapes company culture.