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An original podcast and video series brought to you by Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos. Jay will be speaking to HR professionals who bring a "think globally and act locally" digital HR agenda to their work. Everyday people driving digital transformations in their organizations - data-driven & future-fit digital HR leaders.
Episodes

Thursday Mar 06, 2025
HR Bytes S4E7: Jay Polaki in conversation with Albert Loyola
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), engages in insightful conversations with Albert Loyola, a seasoned global consultant specializing in human capital and artificial intelligence. Albert Loyola discusses a strategic approach to integrating AI into HR processes, outlining four essential phases. First, organizations must prepare by raising awareness and conducting educational campaigns at all levels. Next, AI initiatives should be aligned with business objectives to define its role and identify key use cases. Assessing the current state involves evaluating existing HR capabilities to determine readiness for AI adoption. Finally, activating the plan entails implementing a strategic framework to effectively deploy AI within HR functions.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com.
Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html.
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Albert Loyola on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertloyola/
Albert’s Connection Recommendations: Jason Averbook
LinkedIn Learning Recommendation: Josh Bersin on GenAI for HR
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311?si=YqekuKR76Pj0xdV0
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2025

Saturday Feb 15, 2025
HR Bytes S4E6: Jay Polaki in conversation with Velia Murillo
Saturday Feb 15, 2025
Saturday Feb 15, 2025
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), engages in an insightful conversation with Velia Murillo. Velia Murillo serves as the Global Head of People at Treble Music, a music application company, where she is a pivotal member of the executive leadership team. As the first HR hire, Velia has pioneered the establishment of HR operations from the ground up, overseeing a diverse workforce spanning across various cultures, time zones, and languages in the US, Mexico, Armenia, Indonesia, and Colombia. With a hands-on approach as a solo HR practitioner, Velia navigates challenges adeptly, focusing on fostering positive employee relations among a team of over 100 talented individuals. Velia's expertise lies in leveraging automation and AI thoughtfully within HR processes to enhance productivity, accuracy, and employee experience, thereby driving sustainable organizational success.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com
Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Velia Murillo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/velia-murillo/
Velia’s Connection Recommendations:
Amanda Halle
Velia’s Podcast Recommendation:
· Future of HR Podcast hosted by Matt Beane
· The Modern People Leader hosted by Stephen Huerta and Daniel Huerta
Velia’s HR Playlist Recommendation:
· “I'm Still Standing" by Elton John
· “Survivor" by Destiny's Child
LinkedIn Learning Recommendation: Gen AI in HR
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311?si=YqekuKR76Pj0xdV0
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html

Monday Dec 23, 2024
HR Bytes S4E5: Jay Polaki in conversation with Mike Cilla
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), engages in a fascinating conversation with Mike Cilla, a Data-driven HR Leader with expertise in HR Strategy, Analytics, and HR Consulting. Throughout the discussion, Mike delves into strategies for optimizing HR data infrastructure to ensure accuracy and relevance, enhancing the utilization of machine learning and automation tools. He underscores the significance of integrating technology while maintaining the human touch in HR practices, especially within recruitment, employee engagement, and performance management. This episode provides practical insights into leveraging AI to augment human efforts, promoting a strategic and empathetic approach to contemporary HR challenges.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com
Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcilla/
Mike’s Connection Recommendations: Max Brower
Mike’s Podcast Recommendation:
· Dear HBR podcast, hosted by Alison Beard and Dan McGinn
· WorkLife with Adam Grant
· At the Table, hosted by Patrick Lencioni
MIke’s HR Playlist Recommendation: Renegades of Funk - Rage Against The Machine
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311?si=YqekuKR76Pj0xdV0
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html

Thursday Oct 31, 2024
HR Bytes S4E4: Jay Polaki in conversation with Joyeta Samanta
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
In this episode of HR Bytes, Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos, explores a thought-provoking conversation with Joyeta Samanta, an Innovative People Leader and Culture Catalyst with extensive experience in HR and technology. Joyeta examines the transformative potential of AI in HR, highlighting its ability to automate tasks and enhance strategic decision-making across recruitment, employee engagement, and performance management. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a human-centric approach amidst technological advancements, advocating for AI to support, rather than supplant, human interactions to foster inclusivity and empathy in the workplace. This episode provides valuable insights into how AI can be integrated to complement human efforts, ensuring a balanced and effective approach to modern HR practices.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot and helpdesk for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com.
Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Joyeta Samanta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyetasamanta/
Joyeta’s Connection Recommendations: Q Hamirani
Joyeta’s Podcast Recommendation: Simon Sinek's podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@SimonSinek/podcasts
Geckos' Grooves - HR Playlist Recommendation on Spotify: Freedom by Kygo and Zak Abel https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3cgLqXsUutUyfBha9ICNFT?si=BNPl2vZRRAmac3QVEapH-A
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311?si=YqekuKR76Pj0xdV0
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
HR Bytes S4E3: Jay Polaki in conversation with Ify Etuokwu
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), engages in an insightful conversation with Ify Etuokwu, a seasoned HR manager with over ten years of experience. Ify shares her journey from special education teaching to HR, and her deep passion for creating inclusive workplaces and empowering employees. Throughout the conversation, Ify provides valuable insights on the importance of addressing pain points in HR processes to effectively implement AI and automation and strategies for maintaining a human touch in the era of technological advancement.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com.
Tune into more insightful #HRBytes at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html.
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Ify Etuokwu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifyetuokwu/
Ify's Connection Recommendations: Carlos Larracilla https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloslarracilla/
Ify's Podcast Recommendation: The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations, hosted by Chris Wong & Lucie Tesarova; The Modern People Leader, hosted by Daniel & Stephen Huerta
Ify's HR Playlist Recommendation: Ify suggested adding an upbeat song to the HR playlist that promotes confidence and perseverance to help our colleagues in HR stay motivated and do their best in challenging situations. As Ify suggested, we have added a great song to our playlist Geckos' Grooves on Spotify - https://shorturl.at/tqa7M
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311?si=YqekuKR76Pj0xdV0
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
HR Bytes S4E2: Jay Polaki in conversation with Meg Bear
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/) engages in a fascinating conversation with Meg Bear, former President and Chief Product Officer at SAP Success Factors. Meg shares her insights on HR technology, the impact of automation and AI, and the importance of maintaining a human touch amidst technological advancements. She discusses her current sabbatical, focusing on innovation and personal growth, and offers practical advice for HR leaders on preparing for and leveraging new technologies.
HR Bytes is powered by HR Geckos; check out our copilot for HR Operations at https://hrgeckos.com.
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Meg Bear on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megbear/
Meg's Connection Recommendations:
Amy Wilson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-wilson-insight/
Brian Solis - https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansolis/
Meg’s Book Recommendation:
1. Tales of Potential: The Cinderella Story You Haven't Heard by Joanna Bloor
2. Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang
Meg’s HR Playlist Recommendation: "Work Hard and Be Nice" by Michael Franti
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV5vswNgdg8zGDH1vqTkJBJ21XHseZJHf
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

Friday May 03, 2024
HR Bytes S4E1: Jay Polaki in conversation with Angela Cheng-Cimini
Friday May 03, 2024
Friday May 03, 2024
Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), in conversation with Angela Cheng-Cimini, Senior Vice President of Talent and CHRO at Harvard Business Publishing. Angela brings extensive expertise to the table, showcasing her dedication to enhancing the intersection of people and technology within organizations. Her commitment lies in leveraging systems and data to drive organizational success. Outside of her professional endeavors, Angela finds joy in spending quality time with her family, indulging in reading, and exploring various intellectual pursuits.
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Reach Angela on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-cheng-cimini/ Angela's Connection Recommendations: Diane Yoon, Tiffany Stevenson, AJ Thomas Angela's Podcast Recommendation: HR Bytes
Angela’s Book Recommendation: Strength To Strength by Arthur Brooks
Angela’s HR Playlist Recommendation: September by Earth, Wind & Fire
Follow us on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71182465/admin/feed/posts/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRBytesPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hr_bytes/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@hr_bytes
Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV5vswNgdg8zGDH1vqTkJBJ21XHseZJHf
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
HR Bytes S3E7: Jay Polaki in conversation with Tim Whitley
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
HR Bytes S3E7: Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), in conversation with Tim Whitley, Director of HR Technology at Oklahoma State University. Tim is passionate about the intersection of people and tech and the opportunity to make systems and data work for the organization. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, three kids, and their dog; reading; and doing nerd stuff.
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Reach Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timwhitley1/ and Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hrtechwizard
Tim’s Connection Recommendations: Lydia Wu
Tim’s E-Learning Recommendation: AIHR Digital HR Certificate
Tim’s Podcast Recommendation: We're Only Human by Ben Eubanks
Subscribe to the #HRBytes Video-Series / VODcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311
Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrbytes-podcast/ and
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2023

Sunday Oct 29, 2023
HR Bytes S3E6: Jay Polaki in conversation with Stela Lupushor
Sunday Oct 29, 2023
Sunday Oct 29, 2023
HR Bytes S3E6: Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), in conversation with Stela Lupushor. Stela is a thought leader, speaker, educator, and futurist on a mission to humanize the workplace. She advises startups, venture funds, and mature enterprises on using design thinking, technology, and analytics to create inclusive workplaces. Stela works with the Conference Board’s Fortune 500 member corporations on rethinking their workplace strategies and leads Reframe.Work Inc.
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter: @jaypolaki https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: @JayPolaki https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: @jay.polaki https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Reach Stela on #linkedIn: linkedin.com/in/slupushor and X: https://twitter.com/slupusho
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaburkhartturner
Stela’s Connection Recommendations: Stacia Garr
Stela’s Podcast Recommendation: Chad & Cheese
Stela’s Community Recommendations: https://www.meetup.com/hranalyticspros/ and https://arxiv.org
Subscribe to the #HRBytes Video-Series / VODcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311
Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrbytes-podcast/ and
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @ HR Geckos Inc. 2023

Thursday Sep 28, 2023
HR Bytes S3E5: Jay Polaki in conversation with Anna Turner
Thursday Sep 28, 2023
Thursday Sep 28, 2023
HR Bytes S3E5: Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), in conversation with Anna Turner, Vice President of Product at Paycor. Anna is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience in the HR tech industry. What sets Anna apart is her unique journey, having begun her career as an HR practitioner. This background has instilled in her a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by HR professionals. Anna aims to empower frontline leaders with cutting-edge technology and expert guidance to transform company cultures. Her empathetic approach to building HR tech solutions has significantly impacted the industry, driving innovation and helping organizations effectively coach, optimize, and retain talent. Anna served on the global SHRM expertise panel for Technology and HR Management 2016-2021, was awarded MVP from The Pragmatic in 2020 for her product leadership, received the 2021 Stevie Bronze Award for Woman of the Year in Technology, and served as a workplace tech advisor with SHRMLabs (2022-2023).
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Reach Jay on Social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpolaki/
Twitter/X: @jaypolaki https://twitter.com/jaypolaki
Facebook: @JayPolaki https://www.facebook.com/JayPolaki/
Instagram: @jay.polaki https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jay.polaki
Reach Anna Turner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaburkhartturner
Anna's Connection Recommendations: Prem Kumar
Anna’s Newsletter Recommendations: SHRM Newsletters and Workplace Tech Newsletter from Starr Conspiracy
Anna’s Podcast Recommendation: In Machines We Trust from MIT
Subscribe to the #HRBytes Video-Series / VODcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@hrbyteswithjaypolaki1311
Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrbytes-podcast/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hr_bytes
Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Copyright @HRGeckos 2023