HR Bytes

HR Bytes S4E8: Jay Polaki in conversation with Alena Reva

Jay Polaki, Founder and CEO of HR Geckos (https://hrgeckos.com/), engages in a fascinating conversation with Alena Reva. Alena highlighted the need for strategic thinking before adopting new technologies, stressing the importance of identifying specific pain points and selecting solutions that genuinely address them. Drawing from her experiences, she discussed successful implementations of automation tools like ATS, which significantly improved operational efficiencies and metrics within her organizations. Alena acknowledged the potential challenges and opportunities ahead regarding the future of HR and AI. She expressed cautious optimism about AI's capabilities while advocating for a balanced approach that preserves human connection in HR practices.

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/ 
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Reach Alena Reva on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alenareva/
Alena Reva HR Playlist Recommendation: La Seine (from "A Monster in Paris")
Give it a listen on Spotify: Geckos Grooves https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3cgLqXsUutUyfBha9ICNFT?si=06dd8ea87f0a4810

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Copyright @HRGeckos 2025

HR Bytes S4E7: Jay Polaki in conversation with Albert Loyola

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/
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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

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Copyright @HRGeckos 2025

HR Bytes S4E6: Jay Polaki in conversation with Velia Murillo

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/ 
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.polaki/
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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

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HR Bytes S4E5: Jay Polaki in conversation with Mike Cilla

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


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Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html  

HR Bytes S4E4: Jay Polaki in conversation with Joyeta Samanta

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 

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Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html  

Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

HR Bytes S4E3: Jay Polaki in conversation with Ify Etuokwu

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

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Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html  

Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

HR Bytes S4E2: Jay Polaki in conversation with Meg Bear

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

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Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

HR Bytes S4E1: Jay Polaki in conversation with Angela Cheng-Cimini

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

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Copyright @HRGeckos 2024

HR Bytes S3E7: Jay Polaki in conversation with Tim Whitley

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

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Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html  

Copyright @HRGeckos 2023

HR Bytes S3E6: Jay Polaki in conversation with Stela Lupushor

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

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Visit #HRBytes' Web Home at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html  

Copyright @ HR Geckos Inc. 2023