Shows
The Shifting People PodcastEpisode #22: Communication That De-Escalates: Fern Chan on Leadership, Hospitality Training, and W-I-I-F-M
2026-03-2658 min
The Shifting People PodcastEpisode 22: Communication That De-Escalates: Fern Chan on Leadership, Hospitality Training, & WIIFMOn the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Fern Chan, TEDx/keynote speaker, communication coach, and author, about practical communication frameworks for the hospitality and service industry. Drawing on her experience training New York law enforcement in de-escalation, Fern explains how leaders should first diagnose the real problem, connect with the intended audience by focusing on “W-I-I-F-M” (what’s in it for me), and translate corporate jargon into actionable, plain-language expectations. She shares tactics for managing up (metrics plus reputation and stories), coaching new managers to speak with confidence (avoid hedging and upward inflection), giving constr...
2026-03-2658 min
The Shifting People PodcastIntroducing The Shifting People Podcast: A podcast for managers, trainers, HR +operations, leaders, and franchisees in restaurantsIt’s probably time to introduce ourselves: Welcome to The Shifting People Podcast!
We’re on a mission to have conversations with the great minds in people operations and leadership in service-based businesses because it’s much harder to lead folks on the restaurant floor - and in my humble opinion, the service industry is where the best people are.
We chat with everyone from general managers to area representatives and district managers, HR and operations, talent development and trainers, chief people officers and CHROs to franchisees and sm...
2026-03-1400 min
The Shifting People PodcastEpisode #20: Real People, Real Food, Real Fast: Inside Billy Bricks with Ric GruberFrom Sandwich Line to CEO: Ric Gruber on Scaling Billy Bricks with Real People, Real Food, Real Fast
On the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Ric Gruber, CEO of Billy Brick’s Restaurant Group (Billy Brick’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Moo Joe’s ice cream), about joining the family business during college, taking “pit stops” while pursuing law school and other careers, and eventually returning to scale the company amid an aging founder’s succession timeline. Ric discusses earning credibility after working every role from dishwasher to CEO, handling tra...
2026-03-0553 min2026-03-0511 min
The Shifting People PodcastEpisode #19: Shredding the HR Norms: Burton Snowboards’ Talent Revolution with Aaron RabyBurton Snowboards’ Talent Development Leader on Miscast Roles, Transitions, and Performance Management | Aaron Raby
On the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Aaron Raby, Director of Talent Development and Performance at Burton Snowboards, about his non-linear career from county government programs to HR and leadership development roles at Gallo Winery, Simpson Strong-Tie, Foster Farms, NuHarbor Security, and then Burton (starting August 2025). Raby explains Burton’s talent development objectives: helping people reach full potential by getting the right people in the right roles and aligning development to company growth, culture, and...
2026-02-271h 04The Shifting People PodcastEpisode #19: Shredding the HR Norms: Burton Snowboards’ Talent Revolution with Aaron Raby
2026-02-271h 04The Shifting People PodcastEpisode #18: Shift Break - The Future of Hiring: Adapting to AI and Job Market ChangesDescription: Why Hiring Feels Broken: AI Job Applications, Job Boards, and the Future of Recruiting
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough discuss what’s happening in the labor market as employers report hundreds of low-quality applicants while job seekers feel forced to apply to massive numbers of roles. They explore how AI is disproportionately easier and cheaper for candidates to use to mass-apply, while employers face legal, ethical, implementation, and cost barriers to using AI for screening—creating mistrust and worsening outcomes. They also examine how job boards like Inde...
2026-02-1711 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #17: Unpacking Human Resource Dynamics with Chris HarrisExploring HR Strategies with CARC Inc.'s Chris Harris | Shifting People Podcast
Welcome to the Shifting People Podcast! Co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive deep with Chris Harris, Human Resources Director at CARC Inc., about practical HR insights you can apply in your business today. Harris shares his journey from paramedic to HR professional, discusses the diverse services offered by CARC Inc., and elaborates on recruitment, retention strategies, and the importance of a passionate workforce. The conversation also covers innovative ideas like stay interviews, the use of AI in hiring, and opening...
2025-12-1840 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #16: Navigating the HR Landscape with Brittany Di Nicolò PrideLeveraging Creativity in HR and Elevating Company Culture with Brittany Di Nicolò Pride
Welcome to the Shifting People Podcast! In this episode, hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough sit down with Brittany Di Nicolò Pride, HR Manager at KFC, Latin America and Caribbean. Brittany shares insights into her diverse career journey, spanning roles in ed tech, global digital teams, and advertising agencies. She discusses the importance of creativity in HR, promoting internal talent, and fostering a resilient company culture. Learn how to effectively monitor employee engagement and use relationship-building as a foundation for or...
2025-12-1845 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #15: Creating Impact: From Disney and Beyond with Ryan TiffinChasing Magic: Empowering Guest Experiences with Ryan Tiffin
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive deep into guest experience and empowerment with Ryan Tiffin, Vice President of Brand Strategy and Guest Experience at Incredible Food and Fun Restaurant. Ryan shares his unconventional journey through various industries, including his transformative time at Disney. He highlights the importance of empowering employees, the impact of small changes in language, and the value of transparency in leadership. Tune in for insightful stories and practical takeaways to apply in your...
2025-12-1748 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #13: Building Effective Teams with Ed JanikowskiNavigating Leadership & Culture: Insights from Ed Janikowski on the Shifting People Podcast
Join hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough on the Shifting People Podcast as they sit down with Ed Janikowski, District Manager at a National QSR Brand. Ed shares his extensive journey in the service industry, detailing his experiences and leadership evolution over the years. From discussing the importance of internal recruitment and the nuances of effective leadership to tackling the realities of managing high-volume and struggling locations, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Ed also shares his perspective on fostering...
2025-12-1552 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #14: Building a People-Centric Workplace with Justin OstrynskiFrom Teaching to HR Leadership: Justin Ostrynski's Journey & Insights | Shifting People Podcast
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Justin Ostrynski, Director of People and Culture Development at Hendricks Commercial Group. Hear Justin’s incredible journey from teaching to corporate HR, including his impactful roles at Chick-fil-A and Krispy Kreme. He shares his experiences in navigating career transitions, championing frontline workers, implementing successful training programs, and fostering company culture. Gain actionable insights on listening to employees, executing change management, and measuring the ROI of investing in...
2025-12-1544 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #12: The Dunkin’ Dynasty of Christopher AngiolilloInside Dunkin's Success: CEO Christopher Angiolillo's Journey & Insights
Welcome to the Shifting People Podcast! In this episode, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough delve into the intricacies of people management and the service industry with Christopher Angiolillo, CEO of Dunkin and Signify Ventures. Discover how Christopher's journey from growing up in the family business to leading a major franchise has shaped his unique approach to management. Learn about the value of sports and team environments in leadership, the importance of simplifying processes, and the strategies for retaining long-term employees in a franchise model...
2025-12-1542 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #11: Cheerful Flexibility: Qristen Allen’s Restaurant InsightsMastering Restaurant Operations: Insights from Qristen Allen of Doghaus
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough sit down with Qristen Allen, a seasoned expert in restaurant operations at Doghaus. Qristen shares her extensive journey from starting at her grandparents' restaurant to working at Disneyland, Courtyard Marriott, Shake Shack, and finally Doghaus. She discusses the importance of being adaptable in the constantly changing environment of the restaurant industry, prioritizing guest satisfaction, and effective franchise management. This episode is packed with real-world insights and practical advice that can...
2025-12-1548 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #10: Transforming Team Culture: Insights from Jolene ClaytonTransforming QSR Industry Leadership with Jolene Clayton of Whataburger
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive deep with Jolene Clayton, Operating Partner at Whataburger, to discuss effective people management and leadership in the QSR industry. Jolene reflects on her 17-year journey in food service, transitioning from casual dining to quick service, and the unique perspectives she brought along. Key topics include fostering employee morale, one-on-one coaching, the importance of recognizing team members, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Jolene also shares...
2025-12-1246 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #9: Workplace Transformation with United Way’s Connie BealUnlocking Employee Potential: Insights from Connie Beal on Supporting Workforce Stability
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough engage in an in-depth conversation with Connie Beal from United Way's Working Bridges. Connie delves into the intricacies of the Working Bridges program, which collaborates with employers to enhance employee retention, advancement, and financial stability through community resources. She shares real-life examples of how the program addresses critical employee needs like housing, transportation, childcare, and mental health. The discussion also explores barriers to implementing such programs in small...
2025-11-171h 05
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #8: Anthony Rodriguez on Talent vs. Leadership ShortageClimbing the Corporate Ladder: From Entry-Level to VP in Restaurants - Anthony Rodriguez's Story
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough sit down with Anthony Rodriguez, Vice President of Operations at Gratitude Restaurant Group, franchisee of Dunkin' and Baskin Robbins. Anthony shares his inspiring journey from his first job at Bill Miller's Barbecue to becoming a key leader in the restaurant industry. Learn about the importance of homegrown talent, leadership versus talent shortage, and the significance of mentorship. Tune in for real insights on how to...
2025-11-1443 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #6: A Hospitality Journey with Nicole Canning of Stone AcreDiscovering Stone Acre Hospitality with Nicole Canning: The Queen of Newport
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough interview Nicole Canning, Director of Operations and Marketing at Stone Acre Hospitality Group. Nicole discusses the expansion and success of Stone Acre Hospitality, their unique events, and the team's passion for preserving Newport's historic charm. She highlights their community involvement, social media strategies, and the emphasis on creating a positive work environment. Nicole also shares insights into her personal journey, working alongside her husband, and the vibrant Newport...
2025-10-2329 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #5: Adding Empathy with Your Friendly HR GirlieBalancing Act: Humanizing HR with Anya Avinash of Your Friendly HR Girlie
In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive into an enlightening conversation with Anya Avinash, founder of Your Friendly HR Girlie. Anya discusses her motivation to transform traditional HR practices by incorporating empathy and therapy, ultimately humanizing the experience for employees. The discussion covers the unique approach of offering third-party services, including HR consulting and therapeutic support, to foster better workplace wellness and productivity. Whether you're a startup, large corporation, or individual professional, Anya's...
2025-10-2328 min
The Shifting People PodcastThe Shifting People Podcast - Episode #4 (mini!): Navigating the Job Market with Melissa BesongOvercoming Job Market Challenges: Insights from a Dynamic Job Seeker
Welcome to the Shifting People Podcast with co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough. In this first job seeker mini-episode, we interview Melissa Besong, a passionate and energetic professional with a diverse work history in special education, restaurant management, and floral design. Melissa shares her experience navigating the tough job market, discusses the importance of company culture and team engagement, and offers invaluable advice for job seekers looking for their next adventure. Don't miss her inspiring story and practical tips for career success!
2025-10-2330 min