Littler Labor & Employment Podcast

Episodes

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  236 - Littler Lounge: AI at Work - A Reality Check on Adoption, Efficiency and Employee Use 22.10.2026 24m

  AI was supposed to make work more efficient. So why does using it sometimes feel like more work? Britney Torres, Senior Counsel and co-chair of Littler’s AI & Technology practice group, joins Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave to skip the “AI can write your emails!” conversation and tackle the more complicated questions that come with putting AI to work. Why aren’t employees embracing AI as quickly as expected? What happens when you drop new technology into old workflows? And what do employers do when AI starts helping employees draft detailed accommodation requests? And because one episode can only contain so many existential questions about the future of work, Britney is helping lead Littler’s Future of Work Summit, November 2-3 in Washington, D.C. Claire and Nicole will be there too as Littler attorneys tackle the new, novel and not-so-easy-to-answer issues changing the workplace. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-ai-work-reality-check-adoption-efficiency-and-employee-use
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  235 - Littler Lounge: Workplace Violence Prevention and Crisis Response 08.10.2026 25m

  Workplace safety isn’t just about responding when something goes wrong. It’s about identifying risks, asking questions, soliciting input, and making informed decisions before a situation reaches a breaking point. In this episode, Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave sit down with Littler shareholder Adam Fiss to discuss the complexities of workplace violence prevention and response, from threat assessments and mental health considerations to crisis planning and emerging legal requirements. As Adam explains, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer when employers are faced with potential threats or high-stakes situations. Their conversation examines how employers can work to balance safety obligations with the realities of managing a modern workforce. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-workplace-violence-prevention-and-crisis-response
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  234 - Littler Lounge: Caught in a TRAP? Navigating the New Laws on Stay-or-Pay Agreements 24.09.2026 25m

  Few things bring together wage and hour law, noncompetes, consumer protection statutes, and state legislatures quite like a TRAP. In this episode, Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason welcome Rob Pritchard, co-chair of Littler’s Wage and Hour practice group, to break down the growing wave of laws targeting training repayment agreement provisions, or TRAPs, and other "stay-or-pay" arrangements designed to encourage employees to stick around. From California to New York to Washington state, the conversation explores why these agreements have caught lawmakers' attention, how well-intentioned retention strategies can become compliance challenges, and why employers are discovering that a potential retention tool can look very different depending on the state. One thing is clear: the rules are changing quickly. And when the topic is TRAPs, the last place anyone wants to end up is caught in one. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-caught-trap-navigating-new-laws-stay-or-pay-agreements
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  233 - Policy Pulse: Understanding the Faster Labor Contracts Act – What Employers Need to Know 14.09.2026 26m

  The Faster Labor Contracts Act (FLCA) has emerged as one of the most closely watched labor proposals on Capitol Hill. To help employers understand what is at stake, Shannon Meade, Executive Director of Littler's Workplace Policy Institute, is joined by Ed Egee, Vice President, Government Relations and Workforce Development at the National Retail Federation, and Kristen Swearingen, Vice President, Legislative and Political Affairs at the Associated Builders and Contractors Association, Inc. and Chair of the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace, to discuss the legislation and its potential implications for employers. Together, they examine how the bill would fundamentally alter how first contracts are negotiated as well as the factors driving its bipartisan support, and the political and legislative hurdles that could shape its future in the Senate. The conversation also explores the broader labor policy landscape and key developments employers should continue to monitor as debate over the proposal unfolds. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/policy-pulse-understanding-faster-labor-contracts-act-what-employers-need
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  232 - Littler Lounge: Pay Equity in the Age of Transparency 09.09.2026 16m

  Compensation used to be whispered about. Now it is posted in job ads, discussed by employees, scrutinized by regulators, and increasingly treated as part of an employer’s brand. So where does that leave employers trying to understand whether their pay practices are both fair and defensible? Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave are joined by Jennifer Znosko of Littler’s Pay Equity Assessment Team for a Lounge conversation about the data, legal judgment, and practical realities behind pay equity audits. Jen explains why compensation data rarely tells the whole story on its own, why state pay equity laws behave like “snowflakes,” and how a practical audit can start with the data an employer already has. The conversation also moves beyond the numbers to the bigger transparency moment: salary range posting laws, changing cultural expectations around pay information, and the careful line employers must walk when they want to speak confidently about their pay practices without compromising privilege. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-pay-equity-age-transparency
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  231 - Littler Lounge: The Global Ripple Effect – When World Events Reach the Workplace 12.08.2026 23m

  Tariffs. The United Nations. Global conflict. Supply chains. If those weren’t on your employment law bingo card, they probably should be. Hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason welcome Littler’s Lavanga Wijekoon to discuss how world events have a way of showing up in the workplace. From human rights due diligence and international labor standards to platform workers, global supply chains, and cross-border compliance challenges, the episode spans a wide range of issues facing multinational employers. Also on the itinerary: the workforce implications of trade policy and geopolitical uncertainty – all part of a conversation that covers a lot of ground without requiring a passport. And if the conversation occasionally sounds like an international relations seminar, that's because today’s workplace challenges rarely stop at the border. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-global-ripple-effect-when-world-events-reach-workplace
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  230 - Littler Lounge: Apps, LLCs, and Employment Law – Navigating the Contingent Workforce 23.07.2026 22m

  A century ago, nobody was asking about your side hustle. Today, individuals can build a client base, start an LLC, and work across multiple states without ever stepping into a traditional office. The workforce has evolved considerably, especially over the last decade. The laws governing it? Not always at the same pace. As it turns out, employment laws from the 1930s weren't written with apps and digital platforms in mind. In this episode, Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave welcome Mike Gotzler, co-chair of Littler's Contractors, Staffing and Contingent Workers Practice Group, for a conversation about the most pressing questions clients bring to them and the legal realities behind today's workforce. From independent contractors and joint employment to gig work and workforce design, they explore what happens when modern business models meet laws that predate the internet. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-apps-llcs-and-employment-law-navigating-contingent-workforce
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  229 - Littler Lounge: When the World Cup Meets the Workday – From Watch Parties to Wage Claims 09.07.2026 18m

  The FIFA World Cup is making its presence felt in workplaces around the world, bringing with it a few compliance considerations for employers. In this episode, Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave explore the wage and hour questions that can arise whenhttps://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-when-world-cup-meets-workday-watch-parties-wage-claimsveryone loves a good match, nobody wants an unexpected wage claim. Although this conversation is inspired by the World Cup, the takeaways apply anytime employees have one eye on work and the other on a big event. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-when-world-cup-meets-workday-watch-parties-wage-claims
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  228 - Littler Lounge: Orders Received – A USERRA Compliance Briefing 11.06.2026 21m

  The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) doesn’t operate like a typical HR policy or leave law – and treating it that way can create risk. In this episode, hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason are joined by Shelley Ericsson and James McGehee to explore how this unique law governs employee rights and employer obligations. From notice requirements with a low bar and numerous exceptions to protections that can span years, the group unpacks what sets this law apart – and why it can catch even the most sophisticated employers off guard. Along the way, they challenge some common assumptions and explain why a “we’ll handle it like other leave” approach doesn’t work. They also cover recent developments and important nuances, including expanded anti-retaliation protections and enforcement trends, along with practical steps employers can take now to strengthen compliance and avoid costly surprises. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-orders-received-userra-compliance-briefing
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  227 - Littler Lounge on Location: Executive Employer Conference – One More Round of Insights (Part 2) 21.05.2026 27m

  Recorded live at the 2026 Executive Employer Conference – and continuing the celebration of one year in the Lounge – this second installment brings additional conversations straight from the conference floor. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave connect with more Littler attorneys to explore what’s rising to the top for employers right now – from navigating global volatility and its ripple effects on the workforce (because “predictable” isn’t really the theme this year) to keeping pace with evolving background check requirements and to the ever-expanding role of compliance in a rapidly shifting landscape. Along the way, they also circle back to highlights from the conference’s general session – yes, including the moment everyone didn’t know they needed – and explore the history behind the Executive Employer Conference. If Part 1 got things started, Part 2 rounds it out – with a few final takeaways we’re still thinking about after the conversations wrapped. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-location-executive-employer-conference-one-more-round-insights
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  226 - Littler Lounge on Location: Executive Employer Conference – Takeaways (Part 1) 13.05.2026 22m

  Recorded live at the 2026 Executive Employer Conference – and marking one year in the Lounge (which somehow feels both brand new and well seasoned) – this episode brings you a rapid-fire lineup of insights straight from the conference floor. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave catch up with Littler attorneys fresh from their sessions to unpack the issues employers may want to keep their eye on – from leave programs (that seem to update just when you think you’ve figured them out) to the strategy behind class action litigation to workplace conflict that has a habit of starting small and… not staying that way. Think of it as your conference highlight reel – key takeaways, quick perspectives, and none of the competition for a decent seat. This is part one of a two-part series – join us next week for more insights, more conversations, and a few extra takeaways we couldn’t leave behind. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-location-executive-employer-conference-takeaways-part-1
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  225 - Littler Lounge: Summer Camp Vibes, Employer Obligations - The Realities of Seasonal Work 23.04.2026 21m

  Summer camp may be all friendship bracelets and field games – but behind the scenes, it’s also a complex workplace with real-life legal considerations. In this episode, hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason are joined by Shareholder Rachel Fendell Satinsky to explore what employers need to know when the “office” looks nothing like an office at all. While camp itself may only run for a few months, the employment law considerations begin well before the first camper arrives – and often continue after the last canoe is stored away. From hiring minors and managing seasonal staffing to handling accommodations, investigations and conduct in environments where employees live and work side by side, this episode highlights why preparation and clear expectations are essential for camps and other seasonal employers alike. Whether the workplace includes cabins, campfires or shared living quarters, this conversation offers practical guidance for employers looking to stay compliant while keeping the focus where it belongs – on a successful season. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-summer-camp-vibes-employer-obligations-realities-seasonal-work
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  224 - Littler Lounge: What Employers Need to Know About Service and Emotional Support Animals 08.04.2026 23m

  What happens when employees ask to bring animals into the workplace – and how should employers respond? In this episode of Littler Lounge, hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave are joined by Littler shareholder Trevor Hardy to unpack the landscape of service animals, emotional support animals and workplace accommodations – for a conversation that proves these requests aren’t always as straightforward as an ergonomic chair. Drawing on both professional experience and personal perspective, Trevor walks through the issues an employer may need to consider when requests for service animals and emotional support animals come in, from understanding what federal and state laws do (and don’t) say to managing coworker concerns, allergies, and the occasional skeptical side eye. The conversation explores what the interactive process really looks like in practice, why these requests are on the rise, and what happens when good intentions, legal requirements and office dynamics don’t always align neatly. Listen in for some helpful tips when accommodation requests come with fur, maybe a leash and a lot of questions. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-accommodations-unleashed-what-employers-need-know-about
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  223 - Littler Lounge: OSHA Explained – Prevention, Preparedness and Protection 26.03.2026 23m

  What do acronyms, inspections, and everyday workplace decisions have in common? Quite a lot, as it turns out. In this episode, hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave are joined by Alka Ramchandani-Raj, a leader of Littler’s OSHA practice, for a look at how workplace safety operates beyond the rulebook. Alka demystifies what OSHA actually does, walks through what employers can expect during an inspection, and explains why safety culture and written policies matter. The conversation also touches on emerging developments – from heat illness regulations and concerns over workplace violence to the expanding role of AI – offering practical insight into how safety expectations continue to evolve. It’s a practical, engaging conversation that proves workplace safety can be both approachable and relevant – no hard hat required (but please buckle your seatbelt)! https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-osha-explained-prevention-preparedness-and-protection
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  222 - Littler Lounge: Unpacking the EU Pay Transparency Directive 11.03.2026 22m

  The Littler Lounge heads back to Europe as hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason welcome Nic James, a partner from Littler’s London office, for a timely conversation on the EU Pay Transparency Directive. With rules taking shape across member states – and not always in identical ways – the group explores what employers can expect and how to prepare thoughtfully. The discussion covers recruiting disclosures, employee pay information rights, reporting thresholds, and the broader business implications of increased transparency. Along the way, they highlight why pay equity planning benefits from both legal precision and a global point of view – especially when compliance conversations span borders and time zones. Worth noting: This is a fast-evolving area of the law. For the latest updates and member state developments, visit Littler’s EU Pay Transparency Directive resource page at www.littler.com/eu-pay-transparency-directive. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-unpacking-eu-pay-transparency-directive
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  221 - Littler Lounge: A Preview of Littler’s FMLA and ADA Master Class 25.02.2026 21m

  Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave are joined by Jeff Nowak to talk about how a moment of professional curiosity turned into a deep focus on the FMLA and ADA – and eventually into one of Littler’s most comprehensive master classes. Jeff shares how practical storytelling, real-world scenarios, and fast-moving case law shape the way he practices and teaches in this space. The conversation covers reasonable accommodation, remote work, neurodiversity, mental health, performance management, and why the interactive process remains a constant through it all. Along the way, Jeff introduces a few familiar (and fictional) employees, explains how recent court decisions are influencing employer approaches, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a course designed to meet people wherever they are. And if this episode leaves you wanting more, Jeff’s FMLA and ADA Master Class kicks off March 3-6, 2026. Four full days of instruction, with a return session later in the year to cover the updates that will inevitably follow. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-so-much-fmla-so-little-time-preview-littlers-fmla-and-ada
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  220 - Littler Lounge: Just Cause for a Chat About Corrective Actions 12.02.2026 21m

  Employee discipline may not sound like party conversation, but stay with us – this one’s worth a refill. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave welcome Kat Siegel, Executive Director of Littler’s Labor Practice, to the lounge for a conversation inspired by a common workplace moment: good intentions, solid decisions, and a process that doesn’t always get the same memo. Together, they unpack what thoughtful corrective action looks like in the real world, sharing practical insights on investigations, documentation, consistency, and the ever intriguing idea of “just cause.” Kat brings clarity to a topic that’s often overcomplicated, showing how clear policies, steady decision making, and a focus on fairness can make the process feel far more manageable. The conversation demystifies employee discipline and brings added perspective – and a little breathing room – to the process. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-just-cause-chat-about-corrective-actions
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  219 - Littler Lounge: A New Year, a Familiar Fight – Collective Actions Back in the Spotlight 22.01.2026 35m

  New year, same Lounge – and we’re kicking off 2026 with a topic that proves procedural questions can have surprisingly big consequences. Hosts Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave welcome Rich Black and Josh Waxman as the first guests of the year for a conversation that starts with a Supreme Court update and quickly turns into a guided tour of how collective actions actually get off the ground. From the different ways courts approach notice in FLSA, ADEA and EPA cases to how early decisions can put pressure on employers to settle, the discussion looks at how procedural details can shape the life of a case. Rich and Josh also share what it was like to help prepare an amicus brief on the issue, what employers are seeing across different jurisdictions, and how procedural rules can look dramatically different once you cross a circuit line. It’s a timely conversation for anyone keeping an eye on collective actions – especially the early decisions that tend to set the tone for everything that follows. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-new-year-familiar-fight-collective-actions-back-spotlight
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  218 - Littler Lounge: Ahead of the Bill Curve – 2026 Legislative Look Ahead 18.12.2025 26m

  As 2026 approaches, workplace regulations are shaking up the scene – and Maureen Lavery from Littler’s Knowledge Management team joins Claire Deason and Nicole LeFave to help employers stay ahead of the curve. The trio dives into new legislation and regulatory trends set to impact organizations in the coming year. From Connecticut’s paid sick leave expansion (spoiler: almost everyone’s invited), Colorado’s first-in-the-nation NICU leave, and Minnesota’s meal and rest break overhaul, the team tackles compliance changes with the energy of people who’ve had one too many krumkake. Plus, a round of predictions for what’s next in anti-TRAP laws, AI in hiring, menopause accommodations, and immigration protections – helping employers prepare for what could be ahead. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-ahead-bill-curve-2026-legislative-look-ahead
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  217 - Littler Lounge: European Employer Edition – From Policy Shifts to Workplace Solutions 04.12.2025 23m

  This episode kicks off with a little red-carpet flair – Littler’s Stephan Swinkels returns from the 2025 European Executive Employer conference in London to share the inside scoop. Hosts Nicole LeFave and Claire Deason get the unfiltered download – straight from the source as they dive into the findings from Littler's 2025 European Employer Survey Report, spotlighting workplace trends shaking up Europe – from pay transparency and the EU AI Act to IE&D and return to work policies. Whether you’re navigating new regulations, planning ahead, or trying to make sense of how EU directives intersect with local implementation, this conversation bridges the U.S. patchwork of state and local laws with the European landscape – offering practical insights and fresh perspectives to help employers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment. https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/podcast/littler-lounge-european-employer-edition-policy-shifts-workplace-solutions