In this episode of Ground Rules, Pam, Jennifer, and Megan take a practical, employer-focused look at one of the most frequently used — and frequently misunderstood — workplace laws: the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Megan shares insights from her recent deep dive into FMLA’s history, purpose, and modern application, including how FMLA interacts with the ADA, workers’ compensation, and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The team breaks down eligibility rules, documentation requirements, common employer mistakes, and the real-world scenarios that often lead to interference, discrimination, and retaliation claims.

Whether you're an HR professional, a supervisor, or a business owner, this episode provides the tools you need to spot potential FMLA issues early, train supervisors effectively, and avoid costly pitfalls — especially when navigating mental-health-related leave, intermittent leave patterns, and overlapping legal obligations.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

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In this episode of Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break, Pam, Jennifer, and Doug sit down with keynote speaker and executive coach Michelle Choate to explore how emotional intelligence (EQ) directly shapes compliance, culture, and leadership effectiveness in today’s workplaces.

From understanding the science behind emotions to recognizing how fear responses drive behavior, Michelle explains how emotionally intelligent leaders can prevent legal risk, improve employee engagement, and strengthen team communication. The conversation connects neuroscience with real-world employment law — illustrating how EQ influences everything from investigations and performance reviews to hiring and policy design.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

Don't miss out!
🔗 Connect with us on LinkedIn
📧 Sign up for our email blast
📚 Learn more about our Law for Leaders Training Program
👥 Learn more about your Hosts and Idaho Employment Lawyers

When it comes to drug and alcohol testing, employers must balance safety, compliance, and employee rights. In this episode, Pam Howland, Jennifer Walrath, and Doug Plass discuss when testing is appropriate, what policies should include, and how documentation can protect both employers and employees.

They also unpack the Lanier v. City of Woodburn case, Idaho’s Drug-Free Workplace Act, and practical tips for handling reasonable suspicion situations. Whether you’re creating a policy or managing a real-time concern, this episode covers what to do—and what to avoid.

Key Takeaways

• Public vs. private employers face different rules on testing.
• A clear written policy is essential.
• Random testing must truly be random.
• Document observations using a checklist.
• Train supervisors on when and how to act.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

📖 Available now on Amazon! Law for Leaders: The Roadmap Every Leader Needs to Know to Avoid Workplace Claims and Lawsuits

Written for busy leaders who need straightforward answers, this guide cuts through legal complexity to deliver fundamental knowledge that can help protect your business. Don't risk a preventable lawsuit - arm yourself with the practical wisdom that only comes from decades of courtroom experience. Purchase your copy here!

Don't miss out!
🔗 Connect with us on LinkedIn
📧 Sign up for our email blast
📚 Learn more about our Law for Leaders Training Program
👥 Learn more about your Hosts and Idaho Employment Lawyers