5-minute Feed

Budgets Are Tight, Expectations Are High

Economic uncertainty is pushing HR to do more with less—without sacrificing employee trust. Nicole Morehouse explains the impact on HR budgets and shares practical strategies for high expectations in lean times.
Learn More: www.mranet.org
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

MRA's 2026 Employment Law Update Recap—What Should HR Focus on in 2026

Did you miss MRA’s 2026 Employment Law Update?
This 5 Minute HR Feed episode recaps the biggest shifts HR teams must prepare for, from layered leave laws and manager training to wage-and-hour audits, documentation risks, background checks, and more.
Learn more on our website: https://www.mranet.org/build-compliant-confident-workplace-mra
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Avoiding Risk In Your Diversity & Inclusion Strategy

In this episode, Nicole Morehouse, unpacks the legal risks employers face when well‑intentioned diversity & inclusion initiatives cross into potentially discriminatory territory under Title VII.
 
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Celebrating and Prepping for a New Year

The new year brings hope, fresh starts, and exciting opportunities—but for HR professionals, it also means revisiting familiar challenges. In this episode, Nicole Morehouse, podcast host, dives into key compliance updates, emerging trends like AI regulation, and practical strategies to stay optimistic while tackling recurring issues.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Check Your List, Check It Twice—It's Almost the End of the Year

As the year-end nears, HR, payroll, and benefits teams face critical deadlines. In this episode, podcast host, Nicole Morehouse, covers essential tasks like updating employee records, processing benefit changes, reviewing compensation plans, and ensuring compliance with tax and labor laws. Gain practical tips to stay organized and avoid last-minute headaches.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Grossing Up Compensation — Potential Pitfalls

The concept of “grossing up” employee bonuses is where employers increase bonus amounts to cover taxes so employees receive a specific net amount. In this episode, Nicole Morehouse, podcast host and HR Hotline Manager at MRA explains how grossing up can lead to perceived unfairness, undermine pay equity efforts, and create transparency issues.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

H-1B Work Authorizations-Evaluating the Recent Presidential Actions

Nicole Morehouse, HR Hotline Manager at MRA and podcast host discusses the action of President Trump issuing a proclamation on Sept. 19 to limit H-1B visas by adding a significant cost, aiming to address concerns about the program’s impact on U.S. jobs. The change affects new petitions submitted after Sept. 21.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

2026 Employee Benefits Trends: What's Next?

If you're an HR professional, business leader, or just curious about the future of employee benefits, this quick episode is for you. Nicole Morehouse, HR Hotline, Manager explores employee benefits and what to expect in 2026. From mental health to financial wellness, discover how organizations can stay competitive while supporting their workforce.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

The One Big Beautiful Act - Key Takeaways for Employers

In this episode, podcast host, Nicole Morehouse, MRA's HR Hotline Manager break down the critical components of the One Big Beautiful Act—what qualifies as overtime and tip income, how employers should prepare for compliance, and other related updates affecting health plans and flexible spending accounts.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Compliance Considerations for Summer Internships

In this informative episode of the 5-Minute HR Feed, we focus on the key compliance issues that employers should consider when designing or managing internship programs. With summer approaching, it’s the perfect time to review legal obligations, program structure, and intern protections to ensure a safe & rewarding experience for all involved.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.