How Humor Can Be A Vital HR Tool In & Out of the Workplace
Welcome to People Person! In this episode, host and Morning Brew Inc.'s SVP Head of People Operations Kate Noel, speaks with Ashley Bendell and Peter Phelan, the co-founders of Funny People, a comedy for for (and by!) HR pros. They discuss showing up to work as your authentic self, using humor as a tool at work, and how to know where the line is. Plus, why an HR humor show is proving to not only be comedic, but cathartic as well.
00:00: Intro
01:53: Why HR needs a humor space
07:10: Using humor to enforce policy
11:30: Not crossing the line with comedy
14:13: Bringing your authentic self is a powerful tool
19:00: When humor takes a turn
24:05: How a sense of humor helps with your work
This episode is sponsored by QuickBooks. To learn more, visit: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/workforce/
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Read more about Funny People on HR Brew: https://www.hr-brew.com/stories/2025/12/19/meet-the-funny-people-behind-nyc-s-hr-themed-comedy-show
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People Person is a candid and conversational show where People Professionals can feel seen and heard, and learn from fellow experts in their field. Host and SVP, Head of People Operations at Morning Brew Inc, Kate Noel, brings years of expertise and a healthy sense of humor to discussions about the latest developments and insights that can help others enhance their workplace and their careers.
Biweekly episodes will feature Kate speaking with entertaining and experienced professionals about everything from holidays to healthcare, and AI to onboarding, in compelling episodes available everywhere you get your favorite Morning Brew podcasts.