People Are Talkin’

‘Maybe they’re seeing…something we don’t, darlin’

I love this song.  Such a great tune to rock out to in your car or on the treadmill.  I love music that picks you up and makes you feel good.  This one is particularly relevant to me with respect to the last couple of weeks.

I have had some amazing conversations over the past two weeks!  I get energy from talking with people – do you?  I walk away from a good discussion or meeting ready to go.  The creative juices start flowing and I am motivated like never before.  Immediately after a good talk is an ideal time for me to start a new project or go running.  I’m pumped!

So who have I been talking to and about what?  I’m so glad you asked!  Friends old and new have been on my calendar – HR peers, former students, new students, college administrators, clients, industry contacts, a publisher, doctors and nurses, fellow parents, the son of a great friend, my own family – the Lord has brought so many wonderful people into my life.  I am truly blessed. 

As you can imagine, the conversations have included the chaos happening in our country today.  I have an amazing friend who is also a veteran and cancer survivor – her perspective on the state of the world was amazing and invaluable.  We were discussing the recent ‘Signalgate’ situation and her insights as a veteran were so incredible to me.  She is someone I learn from all the time, but this particular conversation was gold.  I also talked with a newer HR friend who I met during a recent presentation I gave on ethics.  He reached out to me because he is on a pursuit to meet new people and expand his perspective in the spirit of being a better person.  How cool is that?!?  I was honored to engage with him.  We talked about how the things happening in our country today affect the world of work.  While he grew up in a fairly conservative household, we agreed that our focus as HR practitioners should be on our employees first and foremost.  It was a pleasure talking with him; I look forward to future conversations.  (At this point, my cup of joy was overflowing!) 

Other discussions over the past weeks have centered around my daughter, Avery, and her decision to go to Arizona State University in the fall.  We are so thrilled for her!  This is going to be such a wonderful experience for her as she embarks on young adulthood.  As we are closing in on her senior year of high school, there have been many ‘lasts’ and a lot of events to look forward to in the coming months.  I love having fellow parent friends who I can lament with through this new part of motherhood.  Avery is a very special young lady; I cannot wait to see what God has planned for her life. 

Finally, many of my conversations have been regarding my new HR consulting business, New Day HR LLC.  Things are off to a great start!  I have been overwhelmed with the support I have received.  My fellow entrepreneur friends have been so gracious with their time and advice.  I am always happy to learn from those who came before me.  The initial clients I have partnered with were all referrals – amazing!  I am excited to see what the future holds. 

I will continue to look for opportunities to connect with others and have meaningful conversations.  If you would like to get on my schedule, please reach out.  I can’t wait to chat! 

Upcoming speaking engagements:

• Maine HR Convention – May 5-8 – Summary – 2025 Maine HR Convention

• HR Unite! – July 22-24 – HRUnite! 2025 Conference

• Missouri SHRM Conference – August 5-8 – MO SHRM – Conference

• HR Nebraska – August 20-22 – HRNebraska – 2025 Conference