Click here for a full transcript of the episode.

In this episode, hosts JoDee Curtis and Susan White unpack one of the most important workplace laws: the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Whether you’re an HR professional or a business leader, understanding FLSA is essential for compliance and for building trust with your team.

JoDee and Susan break it down in plain language. From minimum wage and overtime rules to exempt vs. non-exempt classifications, recordkeeping, and independent contractor guidelines, this episode is packed with practical insights and JoyPowered® strategies.

We are not attorneys, so this episode provides information, not legal advice! Always check with your own legal counsel for your specific situation.

Key Takeaways

• The FLSA sets federal standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor, but it doesn’t cover everything you might expect.
• Job titles don’t determine whether an employee is exempt or not; actual job duties do.
• Misclassification of employees and independent contractors can lead to costly penalties.
• Regular self-audits and manager training can help you stay compliant.
• Transparency and education help reduce confusion and build trust.

In this episode’s listener question, we’re asked whether it’s better to have a bereavement leave policy that offers different amounts of time off depending on the employee’s relationship with the deceased or an open policy depending on the situation and the manager’s discretion. In the news, The Academy to Innovate HR released a report on 11 HR trends for 2026.

Quote of the Episode

“In 2024, the Wage and Hour Division recovered nearly $150 million in back wages tied to FLSA violations, and that affected over 125,000 workers. This is a strong reminder that understanding this act is critical.” – JoDee Curtis

Mentioned in this episode

• Purple Ink
• Susan Tinder White Consulting
• The Fair Labor Standards Act
• ”11 HR Trends for 2026: Shaping What’s Next” – Academy to Innovate HR
• SHRM credit evaluation – the SHRM credit code for this episode will expire on January 26, 2027
• JoyPowered® Patreon page
• JoyPowered® on LinkedIn
• JoyPowered® on Instagram
• Email JoyPowered®