It's Personnel

About It's Personnel

They say business isn’t personal. They’re wrong. In a growing company, it’s always personnel. Managing a team of 20 to 150 employees is the highest-stakes work you’ll ever do. It’s messy, it’s rewarding, and it’s often overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt like an "accidental HR Director" or a leader drowning in compliance instead of focusing on culture, this show is for you. Welcome to It’s Personnel (https://www.helpside.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast), the podcast from Helpside (https://www.helpside.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) where we strip away the clinical jargon of Human Resources to focus on the human beings behind the business. Hosted by the experts at Helpside (https://www.helpside.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast), we dive deep into the strategies that help small businesses grow 2x faster and stay 50% more resilient than their peers. What you’ll learn every other week: The Hero’s Journey of HR: How to move from paperwork processor to strategic leader. Growth Levers: Using Fortune 500-level benefits and "big company" perks to win the war for talent. Compliance Without the Headache: Staying ahead of 2026 labor trends, AI in the workplace, and multi-state payroll. Culture as a Metric: Real-world stories of building teams that don't just work—they thrive. Whether you’re a CEO looking for a competitive edge or an HR manager looking for a force multiplier, It’s Personnel (https://www.helpside.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) provides the roadmap to handle the personnel, so you can focus on the personal. Subscribe now to turn your HR from a back-office burden into your biggest business advantage.

Publisher

Helpside

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Jan 2026

Latest episode

17 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Jul 2026

   Stop Doing Everything: HR Help for Kansas City & St. Louis Business Owners

   Most business owners wait until something breaks — a compliance issue, a bad hire, a benefits renewal that's 30% higher than last year — before they make a change. By then it's already harder and more expensive to fix. What's covered: How Jen and Tracy both ended up in the PEO space — and why they chose ⁠Helpside⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) over other options What makes Helpside's approach to service delivery different from other PEOs What the Kansas City and St. Louis business markets look like right now The #1 misconception Missouri business owners have about PEOs ("it's just expensive payroll") Why "we're not big enough yet" is almost always the wrong reason to wait What the right HR infrastructure actually looks like for a growing business Why feeling the strain is a signal — not a failure What Tracy and Jen want Missouri business owners to know before they make a decision Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or ⁠schedule now⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. chapters: 0:00  – Welcome: It's Personnel, Missouri edition 1:07  – Meet Jen Leubbert (St. Louis) and how she got into the PEO space 2:18  – Meet Tracy Aspinwall (Kansas City), corporate world to PEO 3:08  – How Jen and Tracy already knew each other 3:36  – Why Helpside is expanding into Missouri 4:24  – What makes Helpside different from other PEOs 5:23  – How they introduce Helpside to a Missouri business owner 6:33  – The one thing about a PEO that surprises owners 7:03  – "Helpside isn't headquartered here" and the Lever1 advantage 7:43  – Inside the St. Louis small business market 9:22  – Inside the Kansas City metro and the two-state line 10:03 – The biggest HR pain points right now: talent, compliance, bandwidth 11:11 – Missouri employment-law issues that catch owners off guard 11:47 – How the Kansas–Missouri state line creates real compliance complexity 12:25 – Why trust is built differently in these markets 13:33 – Advice for expanding between St. Louis and Kansas City 14:43 – Do the two cities compete for the same talent? 15:14 – Family-owned businesses and how the HR conversation changes 16:29 – What both markets share that outsiders miss 17:18 – What success looks like one year from now 18:22 – The biggest misconception: "it's just expensive payroll" 18:50 – "We're not big enough yet" and why waiting costs more 19:18 – The honest case for changing before something breaks 20:18 – What Jen and Tracy are most excited about 21:36 – One piece of advice for Missouri business owners 22:47 – Closing and how to connect

2. 

   7 Jul 2026

   You Can't Scale Alone — Why We Left Everything to Build Helpside in New Markets

   Edrick Shelby spent 19 years in food service, served in the US military, and sold life insurance door to door before finding his way into PEO sales. Kirby O'Loughlin relocated from Tampa to Denver, built a career in sales, and eventually landed at Helpside (https://www.helpside.com). Neither of them planned to be here. Both of them are glad they are. In this episode of It's Personnel, Edrick Shelby (Houston) and Kirby O'Loughlin (Denver) sit down for a raw, unscripted conversation about how they got into the PEO world, what drew them to Helpside, and what they're actually building on the ground in two brand new markets. What's covered: Edrick's path: military veteran → food service → door-to-door life insurance → PEO sales Kirby's path: Tampa native → Denver transplant → business consultant at Helpside What both of them saw in Helpside that other PEOs couldn't offer What the Houston market looks like right now — and why it's one of the best business environments in the country The Denver market: tech, mountains, and a business community ready for a different kind of HR conversation Why brand awareness is the biggest challenge when launching in a new city What a year from now looks like for both markets What they'd want any Houston or Denver business owner to know about Helpside right now If you're a small business owner in Houston or Denver wondering what Helpside actually is — this is the episode for you. Call us today for your⁠ free benefits audit⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast): 1-800-748-5102 or ⁠schedule now⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast). 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. ⁠Resources⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/resources/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast): ⁠The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/resources/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) -15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth Connect: Website: ⁠ (https://www.helpside.com?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)https://www.helpside.com⁠ (https://www.helpside.com⁠)

3. 

   12 Jun 2026

   Why Two Texas Business Consultants Left Everything to Bet on Helpside

   Charlotte Long left a stable career path to go all-in on PEO sales. Francine Blain was pre-med at Johns Hopkins before walking away from grad school to build something different. Both ended up in Texas. Both ended up at Helpside. In this episode of It's Personnel, Charlotte (Austin) and Francine (San Antonio) sit down to talk about how they got here, what drew them to ⁠Helpside⁠ (https://www.helpside.com), and what they're actually seeing on the ground in two of the fastest-growing business markets in the country. What's covered: Why Charlotte and Francine both chose ⁠Helpside⁠ (https://www.helpside.com) over other PEO opportunities What surprised them most about the company once they got inside What the Austin business market looks like right now — and why it's still growing The San Antonio market: military presence, healthcare boom, and businesses fleeing California Why Texas being an employer-friendly state doesn't mean you're off the hook on compliance The one thing most Texas business owners don't know about workers comp Why EPLI is one of the most underutilized protections in the industry What gap Helpside is filling that no one else in Texas is filling right now If you're a business owner in Austin or San Antonio wondering if a PEO is right for you — or if you're just curious what's driving the Texas business boom — this one is worth your time. 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. Interested?⁠ ⁠Book a free 15 minute benefit audit⁠⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) to learn more. What You’ll Learn In This Video: 0:00 – Welcome: Helpside's Texas episode 0:41 – Meet Charlotte Long — Austin-based business consultant 1:09 – Meet Francine Blain — San Antonio-based business consultant 1:35 – Career paths: how they both ended up in PEO sales 3:24 – First impressions of Helpside before joining 5:00 – What changed their minds about the company 8:00 – What stood out most after getting inside Helpside 12:00 – What Helpside does differently than other PEOs in Texas 16:00 – The challenges of launching in a brand new market 20:00 – What makes Austin one of the fastest-growing cities in the country 25:00 – The San Antonio market: military, healthcare, and California transplants 26:30 – Texas compliance: what business owners don't know about workers comp 27:00 – Why EPLI is underutilized and what it actually protects against 28:00 – The gap Helpside is filling in Texas right now 29:20 – How to connect with Charlotte or Francine

4. 

   28 May 2026

   Inside Helpside's Texas Expansion: What We're Seeing in the DFW Market

   Colin Beneke and Nikki Sullivan both came from Insperity — one of the largest PEOs in the country. So why did they leave to help launch Helpside (https://helpside.com?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)in a brand new market? In this episode, Colin and Nikki sit down to talk about how they ended up in Dallas, what drew them to ⁠Helpside⁠ (https://helpside.com?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast), what they're seeing in the DFW business market, and what they think the next 12 months looks like for the Texas team. What's covered: Why two experienced PEO sales reps left an established national brand for a startup market What makes the DFW market one of the most exciting business environments in the country right now How Helpside's culture and leadership stood out from other opportunities The real challenges of launching a PEO brand in a brand new city Why Texas businesses are ready for a different kind of PEO conversation What success looks like for the Dallas team in year one What Colin and Nikki would tell any Dallas business owner who's considering Helpside (https://helpside.com?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) If you're a business owner in the DFW area wondering whether Helpside is the right fit — or if you're considering a career in PEO sales — this conversation is worth your time. 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside (https://helpside.com?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=deshttps://helpside.com?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcastcription&utm_campaign=podcast)insights. Interested? ⁠Book a free 15 minute benefit audit⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) to learn more. Chapters: 0:00 – Meet Colin and Nikki: Helpside's Dallas team 1:16 – Why the Dallas-Fort Worth market is exploding right now 4:21 – How Helpside found Colin (and why he said yes) 5:39 – What stood out to Nikki from day one 6:32 – What made them both commit to Helpside 15:06 – What opportunities they see in the Dallas market 16:19 – The real challenges of launching in a new city 18:00 – Why Texas was a massive missed opportunity for Helpside to ignore 19:06 – What success looks like after year one 20:25 – What Nikki is most excited about in the next 6–12 months 21:11 – What Colin would tell any Dallas business owner considering Helpside 22:59 – Closing thoughts and how to connect

5. 

   20 May 2026

   Your Manager Is Your Biggest Legal Risk — Here's What to Do About It

   Most companies treat harassment training like a checkbox. Watch the video, sign the form, move on. But Rachelle Beers and Amanda Rojas from Helpside (https://www.helpside.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)have seen what happens when that's all you do — and it's expensive. In Part 2 of this series, they break down what employers specifically need to get right when it comes to harassment and discrimination. Not just the legal minimum. The stuff that actually protects your company and builds a workplace people want to stay in. What's covered: Why your managers are your biggest legal risk — and what to do about it The difference between being legally compliant and having a healthy workplace culture What happens when you protect a toxic high performer (and why it always backfires) How inconsistent management creates discrimination claims — even when nobody intended anything wrong The "he said, she said" situation — how to handle it properly Why documentation and consistency are the two things that save companies in every investigation Leadership accountability: why high performers don't get a free pass If you're an employer who thinks you're probably fine — this episode will make you think twice. Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome: Part 2 recap and what employers need to know 1:58 – Harassment training isn't enough — what leaders actually need 2:52 – Good policy vs. healthy culture — why compliance isn't the same as safety 3:57 – Choosing the right managers and what their training must include 5:00 – Policies vs. reality — why a generic handbook doesn't protect you 7:00 – How inconsistent management creates legal exposure 9:00 – What to do the moment a complaint is filed 12:00 – How to handle a he said / she said situation 15:00 – Documentation, coaching, and keeping your eyes open for patterns 17:10 – Why managers make or break this — and the risk of leaving them untrained 18:00 – Leadership accountability: high performers don't get a free pass 18:50 – Final thoughts for employers and employees Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now. (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)

6. 

   13 May 2026

   Am I Being Harassed at Work? Here's How to Know

   Most workplace situations that feel wrong don't start with bad intentions. They start with poor judgment, a misunderstanding, or someone thinking "this probably isn't that big of a deal" — until it is. In this episode of It's Personnel, Rachelle Beers (HR Manager) and Amanda Rojas (HR Business Partner) break down workplace harassment and discrimination from two angles: what employees need to know, and what employers absolutely must get right. What's covered: What actually counts as harassment vs. discrimination — and why most people get it wrong The difference between a policy violation and an actual legal violation The "equal opportunity jerk" rule — why a bad manager isn't always breaking the law Am I overreacting? How to evaluate your situation using the reasonable person standard What retaliation actually is — and what it isn't Why filing a complaint doesn't protect you from accountability for your own performance What employers must do the moment a complaint is filed — and why doing nothing is never an option How to build a workplace culture that goes beyond just avoiding the legal minimum Whether you're an employee wondering if you should say something, or an employer hoping you're probably fine — this episode is for you. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction: Rachelle and Amanda on workplace harassment 1:10 – What actually counts as harassment and discrimination 3:22 – Policy violation vs. legal violation — the key difference 4:36 – Am I overreacting? The reasonable person standard 7:00 – Should I say something? Fears around reporting 9:00 – What happens after you report — the investigation process 12:00 – Retaliation: what it is and what it isn't 18:24 – Why documentation and consistency are your best defense 21:32 – Common misconceptions and key takeaways for employees 23:47 – Employer obligations when a complaint is filed Call us today for your ⁠free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now.⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful ⁠Helpside ⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)insights. Resources: ⁠The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit -15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/resources/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast)

7. 

   7 May 2026

   Why Your Employees Keep Quitting (And How to Fix It)

   60% of employees at small businesses quit within their first year. And replacing each one costs between $25,000 and $100,000 depending on their salary. Most business owners have no idea it's happening — and even less idea why. Sam T. from ⁠Helpside ⁠ (https://www.helpside.com)has worked with hundreds of small businesses on HR, payroll, and benefits. In this video he breaks down the five real reasons employees leave small businesses — and exactly what you can do to stop it. What's covered: Why 63% of workers who quit say it was because of low pay — and how to compete without matching corporate salaries The benefits gap that's costing you top talent (and how a PEO closes it for less than you're paying now) Why employees leave managers, not jobs — and how to fix your culture before it's too late How burnout and lack of work-life balance is quietly gutting small business teams The four-step retention system that actually works for companies under 50 employees If you're tired of losing good people and starting over, this video will show you exactly what to fix first. 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. Get your ⁠free benefits audit: schedule now⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/) Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction: The true cost of employee turnover 1:03 – What turnover is actually costing your business 2:14 – Reason 1: They found better pay elsewhere 2:49 – Reason 2: No benefits or bad benefits 3:44 – The PEO solution — how small businesses get Fortune 500 benefits 4:23 – Reason 3: No growth opportunities 4:54 – Reason 4: Bad management or toxic culture 5:36 – Reason 5: Burnout and lack of work-life balance 6:07 – The 4-step fix: benefits, culture, growth, and hiring smart 7:34 – Free benefits consultation from Helpside

8. 

   17 Apr 2026

   Gusto vs QuickBooks vs Paychex: The Truth Nobody Tells You

   Gusto. QuickBooks. Paychex. They're the three most popular payroll options for small businesses — and they all have the same problem nobody talks about. They're software. Which means when something goes wrong — a missed tax deadline, a wage law violation, a compliance error — the penalty doesn't go to them. It comes to you. In this video, Shelly from Helpside (https://www.helpside.com/payroll/?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=description)breaks down exactly what each platform does, what it costs, and where it leaves you exposed. Then she covers the option most small business owners don't even know exists. What's covered: Gusto: best for tech-savvy owners, starts at $40/month + $6 per employee QuickBooks Payroll: best if you're already in the QuickBooks ecosystem, starts at $45/month Paychex: dedicated account rep, but still software — and expensive Why all three leave compliance risk entirely on you What a PEO actually does differently — and why it changes everything If you're running payroll yourself and assuming your software has you covered, this video will make you rethink that assumption. Learn more about payroll at Helpside.com (https://www.helpside.com/payroll/?utm_source=riverside&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=e10description) Chapters: 0:00 – The problem with payroll software 0:45 – Gusto: pricing and limitations 2:10 – QuickBooks Payroll: pricing and limitations 3:15 – Paychex: pricing and limitations 4:08 – What all three have in common 5:00 – What a PEO actually does 6:30 – Which option is right for you

9. 

   8 Apr 2026

   The Peace of Mind No HR Software Can Give You

   Most small business owners don't know they have an HR problem until it shows up as an IRS notice, a Department of Labor audit, or a lawsuit. Erica Brune (CEO) and Chad Brahmer (President) of Lever One have spent a combined 20+ years helping small businesses get out of their own way when it comes to HR, payroll, and compliance. In this episode, they break down how Lever One started, what separates a great PEO from an average one, and why the clients who treat their PEO as a strategic partner — not just a vendor — are the ones who actually sleep at night. What's covered: - How Lever One accidentally started a PEO — and why they never looked back - The compliance mistakes small businesses make without even knowing it - What long-term clients say they value most (it's not what you think) - Why the best PEO clients aren't looking for the cheapest solution - How Lever One is expanding into new markets with Helpside (https://helpside.com) If you're a small business owner managing HR, payroll, or benefits internally — this conversation will make you rethink that decision. Chapters 0:00 – Intro: Meet Erica and Chad 0:29 – Chad's background and why he joined Lever One 2:29 – How Lever One started as an internal PEO 3:47 – What people misunderstand about compliance 5:00 – What keeps Erica driven after 14 years 7:00 – What separates a great PEO from an average one 8:30 – What clients actually care about most 9:48 – The compliance mistakes new clients always make 10:45 – How client expectations have changed 33:01 – Lever One's expansion with Helpside 35:00 – The dreamer vs. the operator dynamic 36:19 – What's next for Lever One 38:00 – Closing thoughts Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-level-1). 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights.

10. 

    26 Mar 2026

    How Small Businesses Can Finally Escape Rising Health Insurance Costs

    Most small business owners think they're stuck — paying whatever their insurance company demands with no way out. They're wrong. In this episode of the It's Personnel Podcast, host Greg Williams sits down with Trent Sanders and Katie Peacock from GBS Benefits — Utah's largest employee benefits provider — along with HelpSide Senior Business Consultant Dave Ashby, to break down exactly how small businesses can take back control of their benefits costs and start competing for top talent like the big guys. What you'll learn in this episode: Why being under 50 employees doesn't mean you're stuck in community-rated ACA pricing How association plans, level-funded options, and PEO partnerships open doors most owners don't know exist What healthy groups are leaving on the table by staying in the wrong plan How losing a key employee to better benefits is 100% preventable — and what to do about it Why your broker should be having strategic conversations year-round, not just at renewal How the HelpSide and GBS partnership creates a full-coverage solution for small businesses at any size Who should watch: Small business owners, HR managers, and anyone responsible for employee benefits who wants to stop overpaying and start offering a package that actually attracts and retains great people. If your broker is just handing you a renewal and saying "here's what it is" — this episode is your wake-up call. Subscribe to the It's Personnel Podcast for more real conversations, real insights, and real strategies to help your business grow. Chapters 0:00 - Welcome to the It's Personnel Podcast 1:36 - Meet the GBS Benefits Team: Trent Sanders & Katie Peacock 3:30 - Dave Ashby & Greg Williams: The HelpSide Side of the Partnership 5:00 - Why Small Businesses Feel Trapped by Rising Health Costs 7:30 - Breaking Out of Community Rating: Real Options for Small Groups 10:00 - Stop Checking the Box at Renewal — Think Strategically 10:53 - How Benefit Gaps Are Costing You Your Best Employees 14:00 - Competing With Large Companies on Benefits as a Small Business 18:00 - Level Funded & Association Plans: What Owners Need to Know 24:00 - The Power of a Broker + PEO Partnership 35:00 - How HelpSide and GBS Work Together to Find the Right Fit 50:00 - Real Stories: What Clients Are Saying 1:03:30 - Who's the Best Fit for This Partnership? Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now: https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/ (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=YT-video) 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights.

11. 

    17 Mar 2026

    The Client Onboarding Process Most Companies Get Wrong

    What really happens during the onboarding process with a PEO (Professional Employer Organization)? In this episode of ⁠It’s Personnel,⁠ (https://www.helpside.com/podcast/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) we go behind the scenes of one of the most important — and most misunderstood — stages of HR outsourcing. Host Lexi Bartholomew sits down with ⁠Helpside⁠ (https://www.helpside.com?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) onboarding specialists Jessica Rodriguez and Madison Rowley to break down why onboarding is far more than paperwork. While many business owners assume onboarding is just about I-9 forms and direct deposits, the first 60 days of a partnership can determine the success of the next six years. Together they discuss how strong communication, clear expectations, and structured timelines help companies successfully transition payroll, benefits, HR, and compliance into a PEO system. They also share real insights into the challenges businesses face when switching HR infrastructure and how a well-designed onboarding process can build trust from day one. If you’re a business owner, HR professional, or entrepreneur exploring PEO services, this conversation will give you a clear look at what onboarding actually involves—and why getting it right matters. In this episode we cover: Why onboarding is the most critical phase of a PEO partnership The biggest misconceptions companies have about HR onboarding How payroll, benefits, and compliance get set up during the process Common onboarding mistakes that slow down implementation Why communication and timelines are essential for success Helpside has been helping businesses simplify HR, payroll, workers’ compensation, and benefits for over 35 years through a human-to-human service model designed to support long-term growth. If your company is considering ⁠HR outsourcing or PEO services⁠ (https://www.helpside.com?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast), this episode will help you understand what a successful onboarding experience should look like. Chapters 0:00 – Why Onboarding Matters More Than Most Companies Realize 1:16 – Meet the Helpside Onboarding Team 7:06 – What Business Owners Think Onboarding Is vs. What It Actually Is 9:19 – Why Companies Often Underestimate the Onboarding Process 11:42 – What Great Onboarding Looks Like 15:10 – Common Challenges That Slow Down Onboarding 19:06 – Handling Difficult Conversations With Clients 21:30 – Why Helpside Prioritizes Onboarding 25:05 – Systems That Make Onboarding Run Smoothly 26:37 – Supporting Clients Through a Major HR Transition 28:47 – Client Feedback After Onboarding 31:42 – Favorite Parts of the Job 33:21 – Advice for Companies Starting a PEO Partnership 35:27 – Final Thoughts on Building a Strong HR Foundation

12. 

    10 Mar 2026

    The HR Mistakes That Cost Small Businesses Thousands

    HR mistakes can cost small businesses thousands — or even lead to lawsuits. In this episode, HR experts Brandon and Rochelle break down the most common HR mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them before they become expensive problems. From harassment complaints and employee discipline to ADA compliance, FMLA thresholds, and managing employee complaints, this conversation covers the HR issues that can quietly put your business at risk. Many business owners try to handle HR questions themselves, but misunderstanding employment law or reacting incorrectly to employee concerns can create serious legal and financial consequences. If you’re a small business owner, manager, or leader trying to build a compliant and healthy workplace, this episode explains how proactive HR strategy can protect your company, support your employees, and help your business grow. In this episode we discuss: The HR mistakes that cost small businesses the most money Key employee thresholds (15 employees, 50 employees) that trigger new employment laws What to do when an employee files a harassment complaint Why retaliation claims are so common in workplace disputes The risks of mishandling attendance and medical leave issues ADA, FMLA, and other HR compliance pitfalls Why managers need HR training to avoid legal issues How strong onboarding and workplace culture reduce employee turnover Why proactive HR support is critical for growing businesses Whether you're running a startup or scaling a growing company, understanding HR risk management and employment compliance is essential for protecting your business. Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast). 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside (https://helpside.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=e6-podcast)insights. Chapters 0:00 – Why HR Problems Keep Business Owners Up at Night 1:45 – Why Small Businesses Need Real HR Support 4:45 – The Employee Thresholds That Trigger New Labor Laws 8:10 – Hiring Remote Employees & Navigating Different State Laws 11:30 – What To Do When Employees File Complaints 15:00 – The Biggest HR Mistakes Managers Make 18:45 – Attendance Issues, Medical Leave & ADA Compliance 21:45 – Handling Employee Discipline and Terminations 24:30 – HR as a Business Growth Strategy 28:00 – Building Strong Culture, Retention & Onboarding 32:00 – How Proactive HR Support Protects Your Business 35:00 – Final Takeaways for Business Owners The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit (https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=e6-podcast) The Tech Founder’s Roadmap (https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap//?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=e6-podcast) 2026 SMB Benefits Benchmarking Report (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-benchmarking-report-2026-intermountain-west//?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=e6-podcast)

13. 

    2 Mar 2026

    Stop Doing $16/Hour Work as a Founder

    What’s really holding your business back as you scale—lack of talent, or the invisible administrative weight slowing everything down? In this episode of It’s Personnel, Eli sits down with Helpside Director of Operations Andrew Bartholomew to break down the “administrative anchor” that quietly stalls growing businesses. From payroll mistakes and HR compliance risks to benefits administration and delegation gaps, they unpack why many founders plateau—not because of market conditions, but because they’re stuck doing $16/hour work instead of leading. You’ll learn: Why payroll, HR compliance, and benefits drain more time and money than founders realize How “emptying your backpack” can unlock the next stage of growth The real differences between HR software and a PEO model How poor delegation quietly damages company culture Why ignorance doesn’t protect you from IRS penalties, audits, or compliance fines How small businesses can access enterprise-level benefits without enterprise costs If you’re a business owner with 10–50+ employees feeling buried in admin work, this conversation will help you rethink delegation, compliance, and how to reclaim your time without losing control. This episode is a must-watch for founders, CEOs, and operators who want to scale without burning out or putting their business at risk. Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/). 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. Resources: The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit (https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/) -15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth The Tech Founder’s Roadmap to Scaling from 1 to 100 (https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/) Make Your Agency Un-fireable: The 2026 Broker’s Cheat Sheet for Scaling & Retention (https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/) Chapters 00:00 – From Placeholder Job to Operations Director 03:45 – Why Small Businesses Get Buried in Compliance 07:40 – Vendor vs Partner: What Business Owners Actually Need 11:55 – Doing “$16 an Hour Work” as a Business Owner 15:30 – Why Knowing Your Numbers Changes Everything 19:45 – The Truth About PEOs and Scaling Smart 24:20 – Healthcare Costs: The Silent Business Killer 29:10 – Protecting Culture While Offloading HR 33:15 – Rethinking the American Dream for Entrepreneurs 37:40 – The Future of Small Business & Sustainable Growth Connect: Website: https://www.helpside.com (https://www.helpside.com) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helpsideteam (https://www.linkedin.com/company/helpsideteam) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelpsideTeam/ (https://www.facebook.com/HelpsideTeam/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpsideteam/ (https://www.instagram.com/helpsideteam/) X: https://x.com/helpside_team (https://x.com/helpside_team) Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpside_peo (https://www.tiktok.com/@helpside_peo)

14. 

    24 Feb 2026

    Why Arizona Charter Schools, Tech & Manufacturers Are Struggling to Scale

    Why are Arizona charter schools, tech startups, and manufacturers struggling to scale—even with strong demand and funding? In this episode of It’s Personal, we break down the real, behind-the-scenes challenges slowing down Arizona’s fastest-growing organizations. From rising healthcare costs and talent retention issues to compliance, payroll complexity, and fragmented HR systems, many leaders are unknowingly carrying HR debt that limits growth. We dive into: Why charter schools are losing teachers to district jobs How tech and manufacturing companies struggle to compete with giants like Intel and TSMC The hidden cost of watered-down benefits and unpredictable renewals Why multi-state compliance and payroll mistakes put growing companies at risk How a centralized HR, payroll, and benefits strategy can unlock scale without burning out leadership teams Whether you’re a charter school administrator, startup founder, manufacturer, or nonprofit leader, this conversation explains what it really takes to attract talent, retain great people, and scale sustainably in Arizona’s hyper-competitive market. If your back office feels like it’s slowing down your front office, this episode is for you. 👉 Free 15-Minute Benefits & HR Audit (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/) Visit helpside.com (https://www.helpside.com) to review your current benefits, compliance risk, and HR structure—no pressure, just clarity. Chapters 00:00 – Why Arizona Businesses Are Struggling to Scale 05:30 – Charter Schools: Rising Benefits Costs & Teacher Retention 22:40 – Tech & Manufacturing Growth in the Silicon Desert 39:50 – Contractors & Nonprofits: High Risk, Limited Resources 50:55 – The 2026 Playbook + Free 15-Minute Audit Resources: (https://www.helpside.com/resources) The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit -15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth: https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4 (https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4) The Tech Founder’s Roadmap to Scaling from 1 to 100: https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4 (https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4) Make Your Agency Un-fireable: The 2026 Broker’s Cheat Sheet for Scaling & Retention: https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4 (https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-ep4)

15. 

    18 Feb 2026

    Finding a Career that Fits the Season You're In

    Finding a career that fits your life isn’t about chasing the highest salary — it’s about alignment. In this episode of It’s Personnel, we talk about what it really means to choose a job that supports the season of life you’re in right now. From navigating your 20s and early career decisions to understanding why benefits, flexibility, and company culture matter more than most people realize, this conversation breaks down what a “good job” actually looks like today. We dive into: - How career priorities change as life evolves - Why alignment matters more than job titles - The role benefits play in long-term stability - Work-life balance, flexibility, and mental health - Choosing a company that grows with you Whether you’re job searching, feeling stuck in your current role, or rethinking what success looks like in this phase of life, this episode will help you rethink how you approach your career. Is your business ready for great benefits? Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now: https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast-e3 (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. 00:00 – Why the Right Job Is About Alignment 02:30 – Life Seasons and Career Expectations 06:10 – Early Career Uncertainty & Finding Direction 10:00 – How Priorities Change After Marriage 14:20 – When Benefits Start to Actually Matter 18:40 – Work-Life Balance, Flexibility, and Trust 23:30 – Feeling Valued at Work (And Why It’s Rare) 28:10 – Career Growth, Certifications, and Support 33:00 – Choosing Quality of Life Over Salary 38:20 – Working, Family, and Long-Term Stability 43:10 – Why Culture Beats Compensation 48:30 – Advice for People in Their 20s Job Searching 53:00 – Final Thoughts: Finding a Job That Fits Your Life

16. 

    9 Feb 2026

    Why Founders Must Fire Themselves as Chief Compliance Officer

    Most founders don’t realize it—but somewhere between 5 and 30 employees, they accidentally become their company’s Chief Compliance Officer. In this episode of It’s Personnel, Helpside CEO Rick Bartholomew and COO Jake Lunt break down the hidden operational and compliance debt that quietly slows startup growth. From payroll and benefits to multi-state compliance and HR administration, these “non-core” tasks steal time, mental bandwidth, and momentum from the very work founders started their companies to do. You’ll learn: - Why doing your own payroll is never a badge of honor - How administrative work becomes a silent growth killer - The difference between HR strategy and HR bureaucracy - What a “compliance shield” is—and why every scaling company needs one - When outsourcing HR actually protects culture instead of harming it - How founders can exit HR without losing control of their company If you’re a startup founder, tech CEO, or operator trying to scale in 2026 without drowning in paperwork, labor law, and compliance risk—this conversation will change how you think about HR forever. Call us today for your free benefits audit: 1-800-748-5102 or schedule now: https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=apple&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast (https://www.helpside.com/benefits-audit/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) 👍 Like & Subscribe for more helpful Helpside insights. The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit -15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth: https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=apple&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast (https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) The Tech Founder’s Roadmap to Scaling from 1 to 100: https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/?utm_source=apple&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast (https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast) Chapters: 00:00 – Why Founders Accidentally Become Chief Compliance Officers 02:10 – Why Payroll & HR Never Drive Company Growth 04:24 – The Hidden Time Tax of Administrative Work 07:17 – There Are No Prizes for Doing Everything Yourself 08:35 – Why HR Is an Accelerator, Not Bureaucracy 11:19 – The Mental Bandwidth Founders Don’t Realize They’re Losing 14:40 – Culture vs. Admin: What Founders Should Actually Own 18:10 – What a “Compliance Shield” Really Means 21:56 – Why Outsourcing HR Protects Company Culture 24:30 – What the Founder of the Future Focuses On 27:28 – AI, Policy Risk, and the New Compliance Landscape 30:28 – The First Step to Exiting the Chief Compliance Officer Role 33:15 – Why Holding Everything Breaks Scaling 35:29 – Organizational Debt vs. Product Growth 39:12 – Why Smart Founders Outsource Early 43:07 – Multi-State Payroll & Compliance Complexity 48:52 – The 3 HR Vital Signs Every COO Should Track 51:39 – Onboarding UX: First Impressions for New Hires 55:07 – The Silent HR Risks That Kill Scaling Companies 58:41 – The One HR Process Founders Should Automate First 1:00:45 – Why Owning a Business Feels Overrated (and Why It’s Not) 1:03:40 – Final Advice for Founders Scaling in 2026

17. 

    13 Jan 2026

    Most Business Problems Aren’t Revenue Problems

    Bridging the Expectation Gap: How PEOs Help Small Businesses Win the Talent War In this premiere episode of It’s Personnel, hosts Mike Asano (Director of Growth) and Richard Leduc (VP of Sales) tackle one of the biggest hidden challenges small and mid-size businesses face today: the expectation gap between what business owners want from employees and what top talent expects from employers. Most leaders think growth struggles are about revenue or product — but the data shows the truth is simpler: people problems are growth problems. When talent expectations and business goals don’t align, culture suffers and turnover rises. Mike and Richard break down why PEO solutions (Professional Employer Organizations) like Helpside can be a game-changer for businesses with 20–150 employees. They discuss: Why small group health benefits are often a competitive disadvantage — and how Helpside delivers lower costs and better stability through strategic risk underwriting How shared HR, payroll, and benefits infrastructure helps smaller teams act like a big company without the big-company cost What the PEO model really means, and how it supports culture and retention — not replace your HR team The real cost of turnover and why investing in people systems is essential for long-term growth Whether you’re hearing about PEOs for the first time or looking to level up your talent strategy, this episode shows how staying compliant, competitive, and connected with your people is no longer optional in 2026. Listen in to learn how to turn HR and benefits into a growth lever — not a liability. Resources: The Ultimate HR Success Toolkit: 15+ Essential Checklists, Guides, and Templates for Complete Compliance and Growth: https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/ (https://www.helpside.com/hr-resource-center/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=) The Tech Founder’s Roadmap to Scaling from 1 to 100: https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap (https://www.helpside.com/tech-founder-roadmap/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=) The 2026 Broker’s Cheat Sheet for Scaling & Retention: https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/ (https://www.helpside.com/broker-success-cheat-sheet/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=) FREE Benefits Audit Schedule a live demo: https://www.helpside.com/schedule-demo/ (https://www.helpside.com/schedule-demo/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=) Connect: Website: https://helpside.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helpsideteam (https://www.linkedin.com/company/helpsideteam) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelpsideTeam/ (https://www.facebook.com/HelpsideTeam/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpsideteam/ (https://www.instagram.com/helpsideteam/) X: https://x.com/helpside_team (https://x.com/helpside_team)

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Spotify

5.0 / 5

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