Employee voice is transforming HR practices across Indian Country, creating both opportunities and challenges for Tribal organizations. This episode, REDW National Tribal Practice Leader Wes Benally welcomes Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II, and Jessica Goodfox, THRP, TMP from REDW's Human Resource Consulting team to discuss the heightened focus on HR accountability, proper documentation practices, and the unique cultural considerations that shape Tribal workplace policies.

From developing bereavement policies that honor four-day traditional burial practices to managing investigations in close-knit communities where "everyone knows everyone," Taryn and Jessica share practical insights for HR professionals navigating these complex dynamics. They also preview their upcoming presentations at the NNAHRA Conference, including executive coaching for HR practitioners and compensation clarity sessions.

Whether you're a seasoned HR professional or a new manager dealing with employee relations for the first time, this conversation offers valuable guidance on documentation best practices, cultural competency, and leveraging external expertise when needed.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
• 02:04 - The Rise of Employee Voice in Indian Country HR
• 07:17 - Top Three Things for New Managers
• 10:22 - Cultural Competency Beyond Buzzwords
• 13:21 - NNAHRA Conference Experience and Networking
• 16:38 - What to Expect at NNAHRA 2025

Takeaways

• Employee needs and investigations are increasing across Indian Country, requiring proper documentation and legal compliance
• HR professionals should document employee interactions immediately and avoid promising complete confidentiality during investigations
• Cultural competency in Tribal HR means aligning policies with traditional practices, such as four-day bereavement periods for burial ceremonies
• The NNAHRA Conference provides transformative networking opportunities and professional development for Tribal HR professionals
• External HR consulting can help remove bias and provide objective investigation services in close-knit Tribal communities

Resources

• Learn how to design effective compensation strategies amid ongoing financial uncertainty in our latest blog, “Navigating Compensation: Creative Strategies Amid Uncertainty” | READ MORE
• Download our FREE white paper, “Addressing Pay Compression: Strategies and Best Practices” | LEARN MORE

NNAHRA'S 29th Annual Conference - September 29 - October 1 - Pechanga Resort Casino

REDW's Human Resource Consulting team will be front and center at NNAHRA’s 29th Annual Conference with presentations on executive coaching and compensation clarity, plus our popular booth featuring chair massages and great swag. Stop by to learn how REDW can support your Tribal organization's HR needs. | Connect with REDW at NNAHRA

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!

John James, CEO of Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (Navajo Gaming), joins Wes Benally this episode to discuss the evolution of tribal gaming. They discuss the importance of customer experience and the role of innovation in the industry. John shares insights on navigating economic uncertainty, balancing technology with team development, and the significance of non-gaming amenities in enhancing customer experiences. A must-listen for aspiring leaders in the gaming sector!

Chapters

· 01:18 - Evolution of Tribal Gaming Over the Decade

· 04:53 - The Experience of Brick-and-Mortar Casinos

· 08:25 - Customer-Centric Operations in Gaming

· 11:54 - Navigating Economic Uncertainty in Gaming

· 14:42 - The Role of Innovation in Gaming Operations

· 17:32 - Balancing Technology and Team Development

· 19:21 - Non-Gaming Amenities and Customer Experience

· 25:01 - Future Trends in Tribal Gaming

· 29:14 - Advice for Aspiring CEOs in the Gaming Industry

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!

This episode, REDW National Tribal Practice Leader, Wesley Benally, welcomes Rebecca George, Executive Director of the Washington Indian Gaming Association, to the podcast. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding tribal gaming, the economic impact it has on communities in the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of education and advocacy in navigating state-tribal relations in Washington. Rebecca shares insights on the diversification of tribal economies beyond gaming and the future trends in gaming technology. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration and education to support tribal sovereignty and empower future leaders.

Chapters

· 00:00 - Introduction to Tribal Gaming and Misconceptions

· 02:50 - The Impact of Gaming on Tribal Communities

· 05:51 - Navigating State-Tribal Relations

· 09:01 - Economic Diversification Beyond Gaming

· 11:47 - Future Trends in Gaming Technology

· 14:57 - The Importance of Education and Advocacy

· 18:01 - Advice for Future Tribal Leaders

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!