Remote work and distributed teams have completely changed the HR landscape.

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore the challenges of navigating compliance, labor laws, remote workforce management, and state-by-state regulations in an increasingly complex workplace environment.

What we get into:
• The growing complexity of multi-state HR compliance
• How AI tools can support HR teams
• Why HRIS platforms matter more than ever
• The importance of verifying compliance information
• Why HR professionals need trusted support networks

Short conversation. Practical insight.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

What happens when companies stop designing jobs and start designing work?

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore how organizations can rethink hiring, workforce planning, and team structure in a world where technology, AI, and business needs are changing fast.

What we get into:
• What companies can learn from Blockbuster and Netflix
• Why skill-based hiring matters more than job titles
• Rethinking workforce planning and team structure
• The growing role of AI in hiring and operations
• How organizations can build more adaptable teams

Short conversation. Future-focused thinking.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

Networking does not have to feel awkward or transactional.

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham share a more practical, relationship-first approach to networking and explain how authentic conversations can lead to real opportunities, meaningful connections, and long-term professional relationships.

What we get into:
• Why relationship-first networking works
• How Terry and Leslie met through networking
• Better ways to start and follow up on conversations
• Networking tips for job seekers, consultants, and entrepreneurs
• How to stay top of mind without being pushy

Short conversation. Real talk.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

Welcome to Season 2 of Primal HR Podcast!

Politics and polarization do not stop at the office door.

In this season two premiere, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham discuss how HR leaders and organizations can navigate difficult conversations, workplace tension, and political division while still maintaining respectful, productive environments.

What we get into:
• How politics impacts workplace culture
• Respectful communication and psychological safety
• When HR should intervene
• Supporting employees during stressful times
• Why leadership sets the tone for workplace culture

Short conversation. Real talk.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

Should you hire an in-house HR leader or bring in fractional support?

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham break down how each approach works and when it makes the most sense, especially for growing companies.

What we get into:
• The difference between fractional and in-house HR
• Cost and flexibility considerations
• When each model makes sense
• Common mistakes when hiring HR too early

Short conversation. Practical insight.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

Can a single workplace incident reveal bigger cracks in how organizations hire, onboard, and support their people?

In this Primal HR Hot Take, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham react to a warehouse fire allegedly set by a contractor just three weeks into the job and unpack what it means for HR leaders.

What we get into:

• Contractor accountability and third party hiring

• Gaps in onboarding and communication

• Early warning signs and employee support

• Why access to EAPs and resources matters more than ever

Short episode. Real reaction.

Read the story that inspired this episode: https://www.ohioemployerlawblog.com/2026/04/when-workplace-frustration-becomes-five.html

Stay connected:

Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com

Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

Is artificial intelligence shaping hiring decisions more than companies realize?

In this Primal HR Hot Take, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham react to a major legal case involving Workday and what it could mean for the future of hiring.

What we get into:
• How AI is used in applicant tracking systems
• The risks of automated resume screening
• Bias and discrimination concerns
• What job seekers and employers should watch

Short episode. Real reaction.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/

What happens when HR professionals drop the script and just have some fun?

In this season one finale, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham take a step back from traditional topics and have a candid, fast-paced conversation about the real human side of work.

What we get into:
• Workplace pet peeves and everyday habits
• Return to office perspectives
• Meetings, communication, and what works
• Personal stories and career reflections

Short conversation. Real talk.

Stay connected:
Website: https://primalhrpodcast.com
Email: hello@primalhrpodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primalhrpodcast/