In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter explore critical lessons in workplace safety through the lens of the legendary film Apollo 13. Joined by Greg Narsh, Troutman Pepper Locke counsel from the firm’s Environmental & Natural Resources group, they share insights into whistleblower protections and emerging safety trends. Discover how OSHA regulations can guide employers in maintaining a safe work environment and learn about the importance of training and preparedness in preventing workplace accidents. Tune in for an engaging discussion that combines cinematic drama with practical safety strategies for employers and employees alike – “Houston, we have a problem!”
From Concerts to Crisis: Navigating Workplace Scandals
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter delve into the viral Coldplay kisscam incident that led to the resignation of two top executives. Joined by Kristin Jones, Troutman Pepper Locke partner from the firm’s White Collar Litigation + Investigations group, they explore the intricate legal and ethical challenges that arise from workplace crises. The conversation highlights the importance of having a strong crisis management plan in place to navigate the fallout from such viral incidents and the broader impact of social media on corporate governance. Tune in to gain insights into how companies can transform potential PR disasters into opportunities for growth and learning.
Mediation Mayhem: Insights from TV’s Quirkiest Conflicts
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Evan Gibbs discuss the nuanced differences between mediation and arbitration. Joined by Eric Max, senior lecturer at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, they dive into why mediation often emerges as the preferred method for resolving employment disputes. Through entertaining clips from The Office, Grace and Frankie, and NCIS, they explore real-world mediation techniques and the importance of neutrality in conflict resolution. Tune in to discover valuable insights on how mediators can effectively manage emotions and facilitate problem-solving, ensuring a cost-effective and confidential resolution process.
Labor + Employment Workforce Watch – September 2025
Labor + Employment Workforce Watch is a guide to the employment law developments most likely to impact your business. The Troutman Pepper Locke Labor + Employment Team represents employers in the most sensitive workplace matters, enabling our clients to concentrate on their core business operations. Our team is adept at handling and managing labor and employment issues on national, international, and local levels. Recognized as a leading law firm by Chambers USA, our attorneys provide comprehensive advice on every type of employment issue a company may encounter, at every stage of the employment life cycle.
Building a Culture of Growth: HR Lessons From Hacks
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter explore the dynamic role of HR, using examples from the TV show Hacks. The conversation features guest Ted Harding, CHRO at Apnimed, and focuses on the strategic importance of HR in fostering company culture and
From Forest to Fortune: Navigating Workplace Ethics With Robin Hood
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter explore the intersection of ethics and workplace culture through the lens of the Disney classic, Robin Hood. Joined by Jordan Hayes of Cathedral Holdings, they discuss how companies can effectively establish and maintain ethical guideposts that drive business success and employee satisfaction. Tune in for practical strategies to embed values into every aspect of your organization.
Navigating Employee Integration in Mergers and Acquisitions: Lessons From Pretty Woman
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter discuss the challenges of integrating employees during and after mergers and acquisitions through the lens of the classic film Pretty Woman. Joined by Tunisia Poole and Destiny Washington of Southwire Company, this conversation covers common employee concerns, legal considerations, and the importance of clear communication when managing workplace transitions. Tune in to discover how to navigate the complexities of mergers and acquisitions with strategic foresight.
Performance Reviews: Lessons from Severance
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter dive into the challenges of managing employee performance, taking lessons from Mr. Milchick’s infamous performance review in the latest season of the TV show Severance. Joined by Tara Favors of Mutual of America Financial Group, this episode provides practical tips for offering constructive feedback, documenting performance deficiencies, and maintaining fairness in the evaluation process. Discover how the fictional world of Lumon Industries mirrors real-life human resources challenges.
Coffee Badging: Mastering the Art of Office Presence
In this episode of Hiring to Firing, hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter explore the concept of “coffee badging”—a post-pandemic workplace phenomenon where employees badge in, grab a cup of coffee, and then work remotely for the rest of the day. Joined by Donna Griffin from Intelligentsia Coffee, the discussion delves into the implications of return-to-office mandates, generational differences in work preferences, and the evolving dynamics of remote and hybrid work environments. Discover how coffee, culture, and corporate policies intersect in today’s workplace.
Navigating New Jersey’s Pay Transparency Act, Effective June 1
On June 1, new job posting requirements took effect in New Jersey under the New Jersey Pay and Benefit Transparency Act. The “Pay Transparency Act,” signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy in November 2024, requires employers to include information about compensation in job postings. Employers also must take steps to make current employees aware of internal promotional opportunities.