In the first episode of 2025, Guy and Samantha discuss various workplace issues, including the implications of romantic relationships in the workplace, new policies regarding prenatal leave and lactation breaks, mandatory sexual harassment training, updates on minimum wage and DEI policies, and the complexities of at-will employment. Water cooler talk touches on the societal pressures surrounding Valentine's Day, exploring themes of inclusion and the emotional impact on individuals who may feel left out.

In the first part of our end of year episode, Sam and Guy discuss the importance of aligning handbook policies with actual practices, especially regarding progressive discipline and leave policies. They also discuss key updates involving paid prenatal personal leave in New York State, paid lactation breaks, and forum selection clauses in employment agreements.

In this episode, we discuss the FTC ban on non-compete agreements being struck down, more garden leave provision recommendations, and the rise of artificial intelligence in the workforce.

Samantha and Guy discuss the potential impact of the FTC ban on non-compete agreements, stress the importance of revisiting employment agreements, and review changes in laws related to parental leave, lactation breaks, and pregnancy discrimination in New York State. Plus, they discuss plans for the upcoming July 4th holiday and Samantha provides a wedding planning update.

Samantha and Guy record an emergency episode to discuss the recent ban on noncompete agreements by the FTC. They discuss the details of the ban, how it affects current noncompete agreements, and what it means for non-solicitation agreements, garden leave, and other employment policies.

In this episode, Sam and Guy go back to basics with Employment Law 101. They discuss misconceptions about hostile work environments, retaliation, and the accommodation process for employees with disabilities. They also discuss the need for clear job descriptions, understanding exempt vs. nonexempt employees, and the significance of various employment agreements. And during, Water Cooler Talk, they discuss their favorite places to travel for a weekend getaway.

In the first episode of 2024, Sam and Guy discuss remote work, social media policies, and the surprising decision by the New York governor not to ban non-compete agreements. During water cooler talk, they discuss New Year's Resolutions as well as current books, TV shows, and movies they're enjoying.

Sam and Guy discuss upcoming changes in employment law for 2024, including an increase in minimum wage and changes in unemployment insurance. They also discuss settlement agreements and the extension of the statute of limitations for discrimination claims, as well as the challenges employers face with sick leave laws and the complexities of implementing parental leave policies. Lastly, Water Cooler Talk returns for New Year's Resolutions.