In this episode, host Denise Chaffin sits down with Brian Elliott, CEO of Work Forward and a leading expert on the future of work, to uncover the real forces driving return-to-office (RTO) mandates. Brian, a former executive at Google and Slack, breaks down why some companies insist on bringing employees back—and why it’s often not about productivity. He explores how commercial real estate concerns, cost-cutting strategies, and outdated management styles contribute to the push for in-office work.
Denise and Brian also dive into the economic impact of workplace flexibility, revealing how companies like Atlassian, Allstate, and Zillow are outperforming their competitors by allowing teams to determine their own work structures. They discuss how AI and performance-tracking tools are changing how leaders manage productivity, offering a glimpse into the future of workforce management.
Recruiters and hiring managers will find valuable insights on how hybrid work influences talent acquisition and retention. Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, or employee navigating today’s workforce challenges, this episode provides must-know strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing job market.
Key Episode Segments:
• RTO Mandates as a Layoff Strategy – Many CEOs push return-to-office policies to encourage voluntary resignations, reducing workforce size without paying severance.
• The Real Reason Behind RTO Policies – It’s not always about productivity; commercial real estate investments and financial motivations play a major role.
• Hybrid Work Drives Engagement & Retention – Studies show employees with workplace flexibility are more engaged, with lower turnover rates.
• AI’s Role in the Future of Work – AI-driven tools allow companies to measure productivity based on outcomes rather than office attendance.
• Recruiting in a Changing Landscape – Companies demanding full in-office work are losing top talent to more flexible employers.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.