Workplace whiplash is real. Since the pandemic, companies have swung wildly between remote, hybrid, and return-to-office mandates—and employees are feeling the impact. In this episode of HR Nightmares, Lisa Leath, Amy Conway, and Beth Looney unpack the real reasons behind these shifts.

Is it truly about collaboration and culture, or are deeper motives at play—like commercial real estate, poor management, or quiet downsizing?

Drawing from their HR consulting work, the hosts share powerful client stories and challenge the logic of outdated office mandates—especially when workers are commuting just to sit on Zoom calls. They explore the human toll of sudden policy reversals, like employees being forced to relocate or leave jobs entirely. The takeaway? Rigid one-size-fits-all policies don’t work. Flexibility, performance-based decisions, and clear expectations are the future of work—and this episode offers actionable ideas to get there.

Submit your anonymous workplace questions at LeathHRGroup.com. Subscribe and share this conversation wherever you get your podcasts. Join us next time for more straight talk from the frontlines of HR on HR Nightmares!

Is the entry-level job... extinct? In this episode of HR Nightmares, co-hosts Lisa Leath, Amy Conway, and Beth Looney dive into the AI-fueled shake-up that’s redefining what it means to “get your foot in the door.” As automation handles more of the repetitive and routine, many roles that once served as launchpads for new grads are either vanishing or morphing beyond recognition.

The team explores which industries are still welcoming humans with open arms—think healthcare, construction, sales, and data science—and why some skills will always outmatch a machine. They also call out the frustrating trend of “entry-level” roles requiring 3–5 years of experience and unpack the growing disconnect between higher education and hiring realities.

Whether you're a recent grad wondering where the jobs went, a parent trying to make sense of this new world, or an employer rethinking early-career hiring, this episode is packed with honest talk, sharp insights, and a few laughs along the way.

Submit your anonymous workplace questions at LeathHRGroup.com. Subscribe and share this conversation wherever you get your podcast. Join us next time for more straight talk from the frontlines of HR on HR Nightmares!

In this episode of HR Nightmares, Lisa Leath, Amy Conway, and Beth Looney tackle one of the most challenging scenarios HR leaders face: immigration enforcement in the workplace. What do you do when ICE shows up unannounced?

The team shares real-life stories, including the heartbreaking account of an employee deported after decades in the U.S., and breaks down actionable strategies for employers—from conducting regular I-9 audits to setting up clear front desk protocols.

More than just compliance, the conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy and support for remaining staff. Learn how to prepare your business legally while maintaining compassion for your workforce during these disruptive events.

Submit your anonymous workplace questions at LeathHRGroup.com. Subscribe and share this conversation wherever you get your podcast. Join us next time for more straight talk from the frontlines of HR on HR Nightmares!