The world of work is in flux. This episode dives deep into why big conferences are out and targeted gatherings are in, with a focus on driving genuine connections and actionable value. We don’t stop there—Boeing’s controversial DEI moves, job market uncertainties, and recent business acquisitions are all on the table. We’re calling out major corporate shifts, from the evolving language of diversity to the mounting legal recognition for gig workers. The take? It’s time to rethink how we invest in events, engage employees, and respond to the ever-changing job market. In this episode, we look at HR tech, budget cuts, events strategy, diversity initiatives, job market trends, gig economy shifts, workplace culture, employee recognition, corporate acquisitions, skills-based hiring, generational workplace differences, and new funding paths for workforce innovation. Key Takeaways: Boeing wraps up strike with a 38% pay increase while cutting DEI departments, stirring concerns over the timing and priorities. October’s job growth falls short with just 12,000 new roles added, hinting at broader economic challenges. “Equity” is dropped from DEI initiatives as controversy grows, shifting focus to Diversity and Inclusion alone. UK tribunal grants Bolt drivers “worker” status, bringing potential cost hikes with added benefits like holiday pay. Librarians are experiencing burnout due to increased social service demands, highlighting mental health strains in unexpected professions. Alphabet faces backlash after announcing budget cuts on Halloween, unnerving employees with its Grim Reaper costume timing. Aetna’s new SimplePay model simplifies healthcare access with no deductibles, potentially shifting patient care expectations. The New York Times Tech Guild strikes for hybrid work and pay equity, leveraging pre-election timing for impact. Salesforce acquires AI voice firm Tenyx, enhancing its automation capabilities, especially in service-driven industries. "Office Workhorse" study shows 61% of employees feel undervalued, with high burnout among Gen X, spotlighting workplace well-being concerns. Chapters 00:00 Kicking it off 03:02 Reflections on Recent Events and Elections 06:01 Trends in Conference Attendance and Budgeting 09:03 The Shift in Event Goals and ROI 12:04 Content Quality and Engagement at Events 15:00 Future of Events: Smaller Gatherings and User Conferences 19:19 The Value of Learning at Events 22:16 Shifting Event Landscapes and Marketing Strategies 23:58 The Importance of Recognition in HR Tech 24:15 Boeing's Controversial Decisions 26:06 Job Market Trends and Economic Indicators 28:19 The Evolving Language of Diversity and Inclusion 30:39 Gig Economy and Employment Classifications 34:00 Challenges Faced by Librarians Today 37:53 The Joy of Reading and Book Recommendations 39:54 Historical Discrimination and Legal Battles 43:11 Corporate Culture and Employee Engagement 46:47 Healthcare Challenges and Innovations 51:01 Strikes and Employee Rights 54:25 Diversity in Hiring Practices 56:54 Acquisitions and Business Growth 57:11 Salesforce's Strategic Acquisition 01:00:00 First Advantage and Sterling Check Merger 01:01:25 The Workhorse Mentality in the Workplace 01:08:15 Funding Innovations in the Workforce 01:11:20 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Kate Achille: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieachille/ William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network The Site | Substack | LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices