Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss the complexities of love in the workplace, particularly around the legal implications of workplace romances. They explore the concept of power disparity, the role of the EEOC in addressing workplace harassment, and the importance of having clear policies in place. The conversation also covers the idea of love contracts as a potential tool for managing workplace relationships and the risks of retaliation that can arise from these situations. T...

In this episode, the hosts and special guest Jennifer Hooft discuss the recent executive orders related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and their implications for employers and business practices. They explore the importance of maintaining fairness in the workplace, the impact of political changes on workplace culture, and the necessity of legal compliance and risk management. The conversation also touches on the significance of regular policy reviews and the potential future trends...

In this episode, the hosts discuss the role of the EEOC in enforcing employment laws and the importance of workplace investigations. They highlight recent trends in EEOC cases, particularly regarding employers' failures to adequately investigate complaints. The conversation emphasizes the need for employers to take complaints seriously, conduct thorough investigations, and ensure proper training for supervisors. The hosts also address common mistakes made during investigations and the signifi...

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss various aspects of employment law with guest Emily McMaster, who provides insights from her experience representing both employers and employees. The conversation covers trends in employment law, the complexities of equal protection claims, the impact of religious beliefs and sexual orientation on workplace dynamics, and the importance of creating a supportive workplace culture. The discussion also delves into the emotional aspects of litigat...

In this episode, Pam, Jennifer, and Doug discuss significant changes in employment law that occurred in 2024 and what to expect in 2025. They cover various topics including new EEOC regulations, the implications of the DOL's salary basis threshold changes, and the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ protections in the workplace. The conversation highlights the challenges employers face in navigating federal and state law conflicts, the importance of staying updated on legal changes, and the potentia...

In this inaugural episode of the Ground Rules podcast, hosts Pam Howland, Doug Plass, and Jennifer Walrath discuss the importance of understanding employment law to avoid litigation. They share insights from their experiences as employment lawyers, emphasizing the high costs and stress associated with lawsuits. The conversation highlights the need for compliance training for supervisors and the ever-changing nature of employment law, aiming to equip employers with the knowledge to navigate th...