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/

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/

HR often gets labeled the villain.

\In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham unpack where that perception comes from and what HR is actually doing behind the scenes.

What we get into:
• Why HR has that reputation
• The tough conversations HR handles
• The work employees do not see
• The balance between people and business

Short conversation. Honest look.

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

AI can be powerful, but it comes with real risks.

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham take a closer look at where AI falls short and why HR leaders need to move thoughtfully when bringing these tools into the workplace.

What we get into:
• How bias and false outputs show up in AI
• Why AI lacks context and nuance
• The risks of overreliance
• Why guardrails, policies, and training matter

Short conversation. Real talk.

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

AI is already showing up in HR workflows.

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore how teams are actually using AI, where it can help, and where caution matters most.

What we get into:
• Real-world AI use cases in HR
• Writing and analysis with AI tools
• Common risks and limitations
• How to use AI responsibly

Short conversation. Practical takeaways.

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

Loneliness is showing up in the workplace more than we talk about.

In this episode, Terry Smith and Leslie Lulham explore how isolation and mental health are impacting employees, and what leaders and HR teams can do to build real connection and support.

What we get into:
• Why loneliness is rising at work
• The impact of remote and hybrid environments
• What EAPs are and how they help
• How connection and community improve performance

Short conversation. Important topic.

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 break down how to build real connections in a way that feels natural, human, and actually effective.

What we get into:
• Why most outreach gets ignored
• How to start real conversations
• Human-first LinkedIn outreach
• Common networking mistakes to avoid

Short conversation. Real talk.

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