In this holiday-themed episode of It’s About Payroll, hosts Brian and Walt dive into common payroll challenges and real-world solutions—all while sprinkling in humor, seasonal cheer, and industry insights. They kick things off with a discussion on automating manual processes, noting that many organizations still rely on spreadsheets, paper timesheets, and even fax machines. The conversation shifts to the importance of system integration across HRIS, timekeeping, payroll, and benefits to reduce errors and boost efficiency. Walt shares timely pay news, including RSUs and how vesting impacts tax obligations—often causing unexpected tax bills for employees if not planned properly. Brian highlights new research from Deel revealing stark PTO usage differences between European and North American workers, exposing cultural gaps around taking time off and the pitfalls of unlimited PTO. The core of the episode: ten realistic payroll crisis scenarios—from system outages to misclassification—and practical contingency strategies. The hosts emphasize communication, backup workflows, and proactive planning as key to preventing costly payroll errors. The episode delivers tactical advice payroll pros can apply immediately. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we explore the incredible true story of David Ghantt, a trusted vault supervisor at Loomis Fargo & Co. who masterminded a $17.3 million inside job in 1997. With the help of former co-worker Kelly Campbell and a crew of unlikely accomplices, Ghantt pulled off one of the largest cash thefts in U.S. history. Discover how a model employee became the architect of a legendary heist, the role of personal relationships in the crime, and the lessons organizations can learn about trust, internal controls, and payroll security. 🎧 Listen to Episode 188 now and join the conversation about payroll fraud prevention and the human stories behind the headlines. https://youtu.be/a_KHgQ5xhDE  https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-your-paycheck  https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll,   itsaboutpayroll.io  itsaboutyourpaycheck.com  Payroll #TrueCrime #InternalControls #FraudPrevention #Podcast #Leadership #LoomisFargo #TruePayrollCrimeStorieshttps://www.oxygen.com/true-crime-buzz/how-did-david-ghantt-kelly-campbell-steve-chambers-steal-more-than-17m Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this cowboy-themed year-end special of It’s About Payroll, Brian and Walter saddle up to ride through the biggest payroll updates every pro must prepare for as 2025 closes and 2026 approaches. They kick off with news around the economy — including U.S. foreclosure filings rising nearly 20% year-over-year and property insurance premiums spiking 70% over five years — highlighting why accurate payroll matters more than ever to employee stability. The conversation turns to technology, including AI agents already being deployed in Amazon Connect and even the IRS, sparking discussion around the future of payroll automation. Then comes the main rodeo: year-end tasks, W-2 rules, 10-form e-file thresholds, penalties ($60, $130, $330+, and up to millions for large filers), Social Security verification tools, and common W-2 mistakes. The hosts break down the OB3 Bill, tip & overtime deductions (up to $25K for tips; $12.5K single / $25K joint for OT), new guidance, and what employers should and should NOT do. They wrap up with retirement updates including 401(k) limit increases and Secure 2.0 catch-up provisions. A practical, funny, relatable year-end run-through for payroll folks everywhere. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ Welcome to a special holiday mashup episode of "It's About Payroll"! 🎉 In this episode, your hosts dive into a festive mix of payroll hot topics and holiday fun. We break down the real impact of off-cycle payrolls—are they a customer service win or a business headache? We debate whether payroll should stand alone as its own department and if it deserves a seat in the C-suite. Plus, we explore the pros and cons of Earned Wage Access (EWA): is it a true benefit, a bandaid, or a risk for financial fragility? You’ll also get actionable insights for payroll pros, lively debates, and a rapid-fire holiday food edition of "This or That." Whether you’re a payroll nerd, HR leader, or just here for the laughs and gratitude, there’s something for everyone. ⏩ Topics Covered: Off-cycle payrolls: pain points & solutions Earned Wage Access: necessity or overdependence? Should payroll be its own department? Payroll’s place in the C-suite Holiday food debates & gratitude moments 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more payroll insights and industry conversations! https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll itsaboutpayroll.io https://youtu.be/fYAbuK7rzo4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of It’s About Payroll, Brian and Walt sit down with Trista Yerkich-Faul, an 18-year Certified Payroll Professional and former Workday HCM consultant with deep expertise bridging payroll operations and HR technology . Trista breaks down one of the industry’s biggest misconceptions: that Workday is only for large enterprises. She explains how Workday Go, a streamlined deployment methodology, now enables small and midsize businesses to go live in as little as 60 days at roughly 10–15% of historical deployment costs . She also reveals why 25% of companies switch payroll providers every year, often due to poor service and tech fatigue, and how Workday’s single-code-line architecture eliminates file transfers, manual prorations, and reconciliation headaches that plague other systems . Trista highlights plug-and-play package solutions—like the Payroll Transparency Dashboard, which can reduce HR ticket volume by up to 60%—making Workday even more accessible for lean teams . Listeners walk away with a clear picture of how Workday supports growth, reduces prep time from days to hours, and provides long-term stability that helps businesses avoid repeated system overhauls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a special reposting of Episode 89! In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with the incredible Tabitha Brown—America’s mom, actress, author, and social media sensation. Tabitha shares her journey from humble beginnings in Eden, North Carolina, to becoming a beacon of positivity, wellness, and authenticity for millions. In this episode, Tabitha opens up about: - The importance of trust and transparency in business and life. - How she manages her finances and empowers her team. - Lessons learned from her family and her rise to success. - The value of budgeting, giving, and staying true to yourself. - Navigating the entertainment industry and supporting the next generation. Whether you’re here for motivation, business insights, or just some good vibes, Tabitha’s wisdom and warmth will leave you inspired. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing conversations! https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll https://youtu.be/FFwa_Cork8E Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of It’s About Payroll, hosts Brian Escobar and Walter Duncan sit down with industry powerhouse Jenny Lee, a seasoned payroll and HCM expert known for driving transformation through process optimization and collaboration. Jenny shares her journey from hands-on practitioner to strategic leader, revealing what truly makes a payroll implementation succeed—or fail. From the debate between best-in-breed vs. all-in-one systems to the common pitfalls of joining midstream projects, Jenny emphasizes the importance of communication, stakeholder engagement, and post-go-live accuracy. The trio also explores how AI and automation are reshaping the field, but not replacing the human expertise required for compliance and quality. Witty, insightful, and refreshingly candid, this episode gives listeners an insider’s view into the evolving payroll landscape and the mindset it takes to thrive. Whether you’re a payroll veteran or new to the profession, Jenny’s advice will leave you inspired to lead smarter and implement better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an inspiring episode of "It's About Payroll" as we sit down with Aron Alexander, founder and CEO of Runa, the company reimagining how money moves across the globe. Discover how Aron’s journey from helping out in his family’s retail business led to building one of the most innovative payment infrastructures in the world. In this episode, we dive into: The evolution of Runa from WeGift and the power of rebranding How Runa is transforming payroll, rewards, and global payouts for businesses and gig workers The challenges and opportunities of building a global payment network Trends in payment preferences for independent workers and businesses Lessons in resilience, leadership, and scaling a startup—even through near-death moments The importance of purpose, people, and product in startup success Aron’s unique background as a paratrooper and how it shaped his leadership style Whether you’re interested in FinTech, payroll innovation, or entrepreneurial journeys, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Links:🔗 Learn more about Runa: https://runa.com📧 Contact Aron: aron@runa.iohttps://bizky.ai/blog/the-future-of-global-payroll-trends-to-watch-in-2026/ https://tax.thomsonreuters.com/news/tax-pros-anxiously-await-guidance-on-new-overtime-deduction/?elq_mid=73157&elq_cid=56659880&elq_ename=CP-Newsstand-Newsletter-Template-2025%20October%2030&cid=NA&email=brian%40payrolluniverse.com&sfdccampaignid=NA&chl=Em&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eloqua&utm_campaign=30%20October%202025%20Checkpoint-Newsstand-Newsletter&utm_content=NA https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll, itsaboutpayroll.io Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on the future of payroll and business innovation! #payroll #fintech #entrepreneurship #Runa #podcast #businessinnovation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Season 14 Review of It’s About Payroll, hosts Brian Escobar and Walter Duncan reflect on one of their most dynamic seasons yet—packed with powerhouse guests, innovation talk, and real-world payroll insights. They open by reframing mindset and language, stressing how positivity and intentional speech shape success. The duo then dives into financial fitness for payroll pros, revealing practical ways to cut costs—like reducing check shipping and optimizing onboarding for direct deposits. The conversation shifts to the growing role of AI in payroll, sparked by a Paycom ad and expanded into deeper questions about automation, auditing, and the evolving role of payroll professionals. They also review a “Layoff Survival Guide” from Newsday, offering tangible advice on preparedness, emotional recovery, and resilience in uncertain times. Wrapping up, Brian and Walt celebrate their guest lineup—from global leaders like Max van der Klis-Busink and Kira Rubiano to payroll innovators redefining the profession. This is a motivating, future-focused reflection designed to inspire every payroll pro to grow, adapt, and lead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an inspiring episode of "It's About Payroll" as we sit down with Troy Markusson, a seasoned payroll leader and mentor, to discuss the future of payroll and how to attract the next generation of professionals to this essential field. In this episode, Troy shares his journey from college intern to payroll innovator, his passion for making payroll "cool," and the importance of purpose, compassion, and curiosity in building a successful payroll career. We dive into the biggest changes in payroll, the skills that matter most today, and how technology and mentorship are shaping the industry. Whether you're a payroll veteran, new to the field, or just curious about what makes payroll so impactful, this conversation is packed with insights, real-world stories, and practical advice for anyone looking to grow in their career. https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll,   itsaboutpayroll.io  https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-markusson/ https://youtu.be/hH_PjjvUQlg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 179 of It’s About Payroll, hosts Brian Escobar and Walter Duncan III sit down with Jim Kohl, a payroll leader whose career bridges compliance, creativity, and comic-book storytelling. Jim shares his origin story—from English major and stand-up comic to Paychex trainee and, eventually, one of the first employees at Check Technologies, where he helped pioneer embedded payroll. Together they explore how this new model integrates gross-to-net calculations, tax filing, and payouts directly into SaaS platforms—redefining what it means to “run payroll.” The trio also dive into current payroll news, from the IRS furlough to a shocking comic-book restoration scandal and a 75,000-ghost-employee fraud in Zimbabwe. Jim’s perspective blends humor with hard lessons about compliance, community, and building teams from the ground up. Whether you’re a payroll veteran or new to the field, this episode shows why payroll isn’t just numbers—it’s people, process, and passion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 Is the tip system broken? 🚨 From underpaid service staff to gender & racial wage gaps, the truth about tipped pay isn’t pretty — and it could all be changing soon. Episode 178 of It’s About Payroll exposes the real numbers, the hidden biases, and why the future of tipped work might be headed for a total shake-up. 💡 If you’ve ever left a tip — or relied on one — you need to hear this. 🎧 Listen now! #earnings #PaycheckTruth #WageEquality #paytransparency #tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Global payroll leader Kira Rubiano returns to It’s About Payroll—but this time, the conversation goes far beyond payroll. Kira opens up about her courageous battle with breast cancer, her path to remission, and the lessons she’s bringing back into leadership, consulting, and community. From early detection to empathetic leadership, this episode blends professional insights with powerful personal resilience. A must-listen for payroll pros, HR leaders, and anyone seeking inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the future of payroll, automation, and the impact of AI on the world of work with special guest Brent Skinner—renowned HCM and HR tech analyst, podcast host, and industry thought leader. Join us as we explore: What “autonomous payroll” really means and how close we are to letting AI run the show The evolving role of payroll professionals in an automated world Why “payroll pilots” (humans) are still essential, even as technology advances The importance of adapting, learning, and controlling the narrative around AI in payroll Real-world insights, stories, and a few laughs about branding, learning, and the future of work Whether you’re an HR pro, payroll specialist, business leader, or just curious about how technology is changing the workplace, this conversation is packed with practical advice and big-picture thinking. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on the future of work, technology, and leadership! Connect with us: Podcast:[https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payrol] https://youtu.be/zBS3iZXl0q4 Guest: Brent Skinner (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentskinner/) #payroll #ai #futureofwork #automation #hrtech #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of It’s About Payroll, Brian and Walt welcome leadership expert William Davis, author of How to Lead Without Just Managing. With decades of experience in corporate, consulting, and retail leadership, William brings practical insights on what makes leaders truly effective. The conversation dives into today’s leadership crisis, where 78% of Americans believe organizations are failing. William explains why trust—not just respect—is the foundation of leadership, and how empathy and emotional intelligence are essential “power skills” for guiding teams. He shares stories from his career at Bank of America and beyond, illustrating how leaders can inspire by putting their teams first, building genuine relationships, and leading with authenticity. Listeners will also learn how to spot hidden leadership potential, avoid toxic traits, and lead effectively—even without a formal title. Whether you’re an executive, HR leader, or emerging professional, this episode provides actionable tools for building stronger teams and reshaping leadership in today’s workplace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for an inspiring deep dive into the world of payroll, time tracking, and people-first leadership! In this episode of "It's About Payroll," we sit down with Dean Matthews, visionary CEO and founder of On the Clock—a leading time tracking solution trusted by over 15,000 businesses. Dean shares his journey from self-taught developer to SaaS leader, revealing how he built On the Clock from the ground up and transformed it into a powerhouse for payroll professionals and small business owners. Discover how Dean’s passion for innovation, transparency, and servant leadership has shaped his company’s culture and product. We explore: • The biggest payroll and time tracking challenges facing businesses today • How automation and AI are changing the payroll landscape • Practical tips for financial fitness and saving money in your organization • The importance of compliance, transparency, and customer-driven innovation • Dean’s advice for aspiring tech leaders and entrepreneurs. Plus, don’t miss our fun “This or That” segment, where Dean and the hosts reveal their favorite foods, leadership philosophies, and more! If you’re a payroll pro, business owner, or just love stories of innovation and leadership, this episode is for you. Like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments! 🔗 Learn more about On the Clock: https://www.ontheclock.com🔗 Connect with Dean Matthews on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanmatthews/ https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll,   itsaboutpayroll.io   https://youtu.be/OHgJqTX4w6M  Payroll #Leadership #SaaS #TimeTracking #Podcast #OnTheClock #BusinessInnovation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping It’s About Your Paycheck true-crime episode, we unravel the unbelievable payroll fiasco at Palm Beach Equine Clinic, where a receptionist was mistakenly paid a veterinarian’s $400K salary for nearly a year. Key Points Covered: The Error: A third-party payroll provider assigned the wrong salary, and internal controls failed at every level—no alerts, no audits, no red flags caught. The Fallout: The employee spent over half the funds on luxury goods, Zelle transfers, and even sent $100K overseas. She later returned $200K, but only after being investigated. The Legal Side: She now faces first-degree felony charges for grand theft and money laundering, raising debates about intent vs. negligence. The Bigger Lesson: Employers, payroll vendors, and employees all share responsibility. Lack of oversight, absent variance checks, and poor communication created the perfect storm. Pro Tips for Payroll & HR: Build automated alerts, conduct variance audits, review W-2 data for anomalies, and always reconcile payroll with actual employee roles and pay rates. This case isn’t just a shocking headline—it’s a wake-up call for every business. Trust but verify, because payroll mistakes don’t just cost money… they can cost careers and freedom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this lively episode of It’s About Payroll, Brian and Walt welcome UK payroll veteran and Payroll Support Network (PSN) co-founder, Jody Cox. With over 20 years of experience, Jody shares her career journey from finance into payroll leadership, including building a payroll function that supported over 11,000 employees. She reveals how PSN started as a mentoring connection that grew into a thriving community of thousands of payroll professionals, offering support, laughter, and learning across industries. The conversation takes fun turns as Jody shares her dream of being a marine biologist (inspired by Free Willy), her secret TV appearance on a car show, and the not-so-glamorous moment of losing her phone to the sea. Together, they bust myths about payroll (“it’s not just about numbers”), discuss building safe spaces for payroll professionals to be heard, and highlight how payroll accuracy directly impacts employee trust. This episode celebrates the launch of Payroll Support Network US, a collaboration between PSN and It’s About Payroll, marking the beginning of a truly global payroll family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ Welcome to Episode 171 of the It's About Payroll podcast! This week, hosts Brian and Walt sit down with Sanders Offner, President of Crescent and Impact HR, to explore the evolving world of HR and payroll for small to mid-size businesses. Sanders shares his journey from starting in a closet to leading a company known for white-glove service, operational expertise, and people-first leadership. In this episode, you'll learn: Why payroll accuracy is critical for business success How HR outsourcing can empower your team and boost retention The importance of blending technology with human service for a seamless HR experience Strategies for proactive compliance and risk mitigation The future of HR and payroll in the age of AI Sanders also discusses the value of building trust with clients, the real cost of employee turnover, and how Crescent HR’s approach stands out in a crowded industry. Whether you’re an HR professional, payroll pro, or business leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. 🔗 Learn more about Crescent HR: https://crescenthr.com 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more payroll and HR expertise every week! https://youtu.be/67l8VYar83A https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-your-paycheck  https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payroll,   itsaboutpayroll.io  itsaboutyourpaycheck.com  https://crescent-hr.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of It’s About Payroll and It’s About Your Paycheck, Brian and Walt sit down with Marshall Leitz, a seasoned lending expert with over 35 years in commercial finance. Marshall specializes in helping fast-growing businesses unlock working capital through receivables, inventory, and equipment financing—without sacrificing equity. Marshall breaks down the difference between dilutive vs. non-dilutive capital, explains how asset-based lending works in practice, and shares real client success stories—including a healthcare staffing company that grew revenues 400% during COVID while never missing payroll. He also dispels the myth that “no” from one bank means the end of the road, stressing the importance of finding lenders aligned with your goals. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, payroll leader, or business owner, this episode offers invaluable insights into preserving equity, scaling sustainably, and solving cash flow challenges before they derail growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices