In the latest episode of the "Remotely One" podcast, Jeff Walpole, CEO of Phase2, joins hosts Rick and Kaleem for an engaging chat about the evolution and future of remote and hybrid work environments. The entertaining exchange delves into Jeff's extensive experience managing hybrid teams and offers valuable lessons for organizations navigating these new work paradigms.

Jeff's career spans from working on IT projects for the U.S. Navy, EPA, and Department of Defense, to leading Phase2, a digital agency he co-founded in 2001. His background as a musician in a heavy metal hair band named "Without Warning" adds an intriguing twist to his professional journey, sparking nostalgic banter about 80s rock fashion and music icons like Dio and Ratt.

Starting Phase2 shortly after September 11, 2001, Jeff and his co-founders initially worked on-site at the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), developing a system for calculating the NFL salary cap. Their early adoption of remote and flexible work practices, including holding meetings in a Starbucks conference room, laid the groundwork for their future operations.

Phase2 has since grown into a leading digital agency, delivering large-scale, custom software solutions for clients like Fannie Mae, Johnson & Johnson, and the Smithsonian!

For remote enthusiasts, the trio deeply explore Phase2's transition to remote-first operations. Originally having a significant office presence, the company gradually reduced office space in response to the rise of remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, their Arlington headquarters is mostly empty, reflecting a strategic shift to accommodate diverse work preferences.

By fostering a culture that values flexibility, purposeful meetings, and strong client relationships, Phase2 has successfully navigated the challenges of remote work while continuing to innovate in the digital space. Through action, Phase2 underscores the importance of intentionality in remote work!

The pandemic was a turning point, forcing everyone to experience remote work and fostering greater empathy for remote team members. This universal shift helped overcome the final barriers to a more inclusive hybrid work culture. Phase2 even created the "Phase2 Remote Work Playbook," a resource made freely available during the pandemic. This playbook, drawing from their long history with remote work, offered technical tips and cultural advice for effective remote meetings, helping other companies navigate the sudden shift to remote work.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the practicalities and philosophies of managing hybrid and remote work environments. Jeff's emphasis on flexibility, empathy, and productivity provides a valuable framework for organizations adapting to these models. Join the conversation and discover why adapting to the unique needs of remote and hybrid teams is crucial for ensuring all employees feel included and empowered to do their best work!

Learn more about Jeff:

• Jeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffwalpole/
• Phase2 Remote Work Playbook: https://phase2.gitbook.io/phase2-remote-work-playbook/

Join us for an exciting new episode of the Remotely One podcast, broadcasting from the Tandem booth at the Transform HR conference in Las Vegas! Our host, Kaleem Clarkson, was thrilled to welcome guest Brie-Ann Forhecz, Founder and CEO of Redhook Coaching. Hailing from the Jersey Shore and now based in Manhattan, Brie-Ann brings over a decade of experience in HR management and a passion for coaching to the table.

As the CEO and founder of Redhook, a coaching company specializing in executive leadership, Brie-Ann is no stranger to the challenges and advantages of remote work feedback. In this lively discussion, she explores the intricacies of giving feedback in remote settings and emphasizes the importance of building trust with clients, especially in a virtual environment.

Brie-Ann also shares valuable insights into the coaching process, highlighting the importance of creating an open and warm atmosphere to foster trust and collaboration. With a focus on partnership and individualized support, Brie-Ann helps leaders gain clarity and drive meaningful outcomes in their professional journeys.

From the flexibility to work with clients worldwide to the opportunity to support leaders in diverse cultural and organizational contexts, remote coaching offers unique advantages. Despite the challenges, Brie-Ann highlights the immense potential for growth and innovation in this global work world.

And of course, no conversation with Brie-Ann would be complete without a glimpse into her Jersey Shore days. Hear the hilarious story of her encounter with none other than Bruce Springsteen himself on a beach in Seabright, New Jersey!

Join us as we explore the dynamic landscape of remote work coaching and gain valuable insights from Brie-Ann's wealth of experience and expertise. Don't miss this conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and practical tips for navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities of remote work in today's world.

Learn more about Brie-Ann:

• Brie-Ann’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brienyc/
• Redhook Coaching: https://www.redhookcoaching.com/

Join us this week for an engaging conversation with Amanda Richardson, CEO of CoderPad as she sits down with hosts Rick and Kaleem to discuss her career journey and the nuances of remote work.

Amanda's path into product management was sparked by a challenge from her company's CTO, igniting her passion for problem-solving. With experience at companies like Snagajob and Hotel Tonight, she honed her skills in understanding user needs and crafting innovative solutions.

At the helm of CoderPad, Amanda leads a platform that serves as a technical assessment tool primarily used for interviewing and evaluating developer talent. Beyond coding assessments, it accommodates various technical roles like hardware development and data science, offering both asynchronous and live coding interview capabilities.

Amanda questions the rush to return to the office, advocating for data-driven decision-making and challenging assumptions about office productivity. Drawing on studies showing increased productivity and company growth with remote teams, she highlights the benefits of remote work.

The trio delves into the challenges faced by mid-level managers tasked with enforcing directives they may not align with, stressing the importance of equipping them with the necessary tools and training to advocate for their teams' needs effectively.

There’s some skepticism about the hybrid work model in this conversation, Amanda points out logistical hurdles and the impracticality in certain job roles. She critiques it as a half-hearted attempt to balance remote and office work without addressing fundamental issues like teamwork and culture.

Our guest also debunks the misconception that remote work always translates to cost savings, highlighting expenses related to travel and tools while acknowledging potential savings in hiring talent from diverse locations.

So, click play and dive into this enlightening interview filled with valuable insights on remote work. Amanda's perspective offers a refreshing take on navigating modern work environments. We look forward to our next chat, Amanda!

Learn more about Amanda:

• Amanda’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandahartrichardson/
• CoderPad’s Webpage: https://coderpad.io/