It's About Payroll

Join us for an insightful conversation with payroll industry expert Jon Schausten, CPP, as we dive into the evolving world of payroll. 🔑 In this episode, we tackle the big questions: * What happens as seasoned payrollers age out? * How do you find your payroll tribe as a newer payroll pro? * What does it take to truly succeed in this ever-changing industry? Whether you’re a payroll veteran, just starting out, or looking to build your network, this episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and actionable tips. Jon shares his legendary payroll journey, the importance of community, and strategies for thriving in payroll’s next era. Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode for anyone passionate about payroll, career growth, and professional community! 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. https://youtu.be/DyaH-NjNltg https://wrkdefined.com/podcast/its-about-payrollitsaboutpayroll.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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