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Dr. Shari Simpson Senior Manager Thought Leadership | Paylocity

Shari Simpson, EdD, is the host of HR Mixtape and a senior thought leadership leader at Paylocity. With over two decades of experience across training, talent, payroll, and employee relations, she brings curiosity, candor, and real-world perspective to every episode. Shari holds a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation, along with an MBA, MHRM, and SHRM-SCP certification.

Traci Austin Chief Talent Officer | Elevated Talent Consulting

Traci Austin is the Founder and CEO of Elevated Talent Consulting, where she partners with contractor businesses to retain top talent, develop field-ready leaders, and create thriving workplaces that attract quality hires through culture, not gimmicks. With over two decades of human resources expertise focused on these industries, she empowers leaders to lead with greater impact, efficiency, and purpose. Traci also hosts The People Strategy Podcast, which has produced 214 episodes delivering actionable leadership insights for industries often overlooked in mainstream business conversations.

Human Resources

From Doers to People Developers: Leadership in the Trades that Boosts Retention with Traci Austin

70% of learning happens on the job, making hands-on mentoring crucial in trades.

Podcast

February 03, 2026

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Dr. Shari Simpson welcomes Tracy Austin, Chief Talent Officer at Elevated Talent Consulting. They dive into the often-overlooked world of skilled trades, discussing the misconceptions surrounding these roles and the importance of effective leadership in these environments. This conversation is timely as organizations face challenges in attracting and retaining talent in the trades, especially amidst the rise of AI and changing workforce dynamics. Tracy offers unique insights into how to foster a positive employee experience and build a culture of psychological safety.

Key Takeaways:

Learn how to shift perceptions about trade roles and their earning potential.
Discover strategies for developing leadership skills tailored to frontline workers.
Explore ways to create engaging, hands-on experiences for young talent in the trades.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to HR in the skilled trades!

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