Beyond the Buzz:
What 45 Years in Human Resources Says About What’s Next
What’s changing in compensation, total rewards, and Human Resources—and what should leaders be paying attention to next?
In this special episode of What the Comp?! – The Pay Strategy Podcast, Jennifer Loftus is joined by Michael Maciekowich, National Director at Astron Solutions, for a different kind of 2026 conference season recap.
With more than 45 years in the profession, Mike brings the perspective of a senior advisor, business owner, and thought leader who has watched Human Resources and total rewards evolve through changing employee expectations, new technology, shifting business priorities, and countless compensation trends.
Jennifer and Mike explore the biggest themes coming out of the 2026 WorldatWork and SHRM conference season, what those conversations mean for Human Resources leaders and executives, and where compensation and total rewards may be headed next.
This conversation goes beyond conference highlights to focus on a bigger question:
How can organizations make compensation decisions that support their people while also protecting the long-term health of the business?
If your organization is wrestling with changing workforce expectations, compensation strategy, total rewards, or the future of Human Resources, this episode will give you plenty to think about.