In this episode of the Work Shouldn’t Suck podcast, host Tim Cynova begins an exploration into the crucial intersection of Human Resources (HR) and climate emergencies. Recorded amidst recent natural disasters, the discussion explores how workplaces can prepare for and respond to climate-related challenges, underscoring the importance of planning for the unexpected, building resilient systems, and supporting employee well-being in the midst of these emergencies.

Joining the conversation are Jenna Ringelheim and Jillian Wright, bringing their insights on meaningful HR and organizational design practices rooted in equity, anti-racism, and compassion. They emphasize the importance of proactive planning, values-based workplace design, and the integration of equity, empathy, and integrity in HR practices. This spirited discussion highlights the evolving nature of workplace challenges posed by climate change and the need for resilient, people-centered organizational frameworks.

Highlights:

• Introduction to Climate Emergency and HR (00:00)
• Unplanned vs. Unexpected Events (01:06)
• Climate Justice HR: A New Approach (02:31)
• Guest Introductions and Their Work (03:04)
• Values-Centered Work in HR (04:08)
• Climate Justice HR in Practice (10:39)
• Real-World Examples and Challenges (12:43)
• Developing Compassionate Leave Policies (18:18)
• Building Resilient and Supportive Workplaces (22:16)
• The Importance of Flexibility and Empathy (34:28)
• Final Thoughts and Takeaways (44:22)

Related Resources:

• The Resilient Organization: A Guide to Nonprofit Disaster Preparedness by the Center for Disaster Philanthropy
• Scarcity and the Non-Profit People Paradox Example 2 delves into the St. John’s case study and how they approached the unplanned versus the unexpected
• Climate Emotions Wheel including a Guide to Climate Emotions
• Phases of Disaster Response from the Institute for Collective Trauma and Growth
• University of California’s Center for Climate Justice “What is Climate Justice“ and the Six Pillars of Climate Justice.
• Tulane University’s “What Is a Disaster Management Cycle?”
• Crisis Relief & Recovery on “What is Disaster Leadership?”
• “How to Lead Through a Crisis” by the Center for Creative Leadership
• “The connection between the climate crisis and outdated leadership models” by the Academy for Sustainable Innovation
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