Happy Hour with Shannon Tipton and Brent Schlenker:   Join Shannon Tipton and Brent Schlenker for a blend of business smarts and L&D war stories. Don’t miss our happy hour recommendations at the end of these notes!  Today, we're dissecting what’s up with pay-to-play conferences and equity in remote work.   When it comes to remote work, there are many organizations taking a hard stance - return to office or else.   Shannon and Brent are debating today: What are an organization's obligations to ensure that remote workers are offered the same growth opportunities as those who are in the office?   Are they receiving the same learning opportunities? Is there access to the same resources and support? How can we better support managers with remote teams? How can we think differently about hybrid learning environments?   When it comes to thinking differently about remote vs in-office opportunities, what changes need to be made and how can L&D support those changes?   But before we dig into this, what’s up with pay-to-play conferences and awards!? Shannon Tipton brings up a common frustration about being asked to participate in conferences and gain awards, but having to pay for the privilege. Those who have been in the industry for more than a few years may be aware that this happens - so now it’s time to alert those who may not be aware that this is not how to gain exposure.     So grab your drink, tune in and get ready to: Learn the industry’s hidden play-to-play reward system Why the strong push for “return to office,” is it all a conspiracy theory? Mismanagement of remote workers How we can better support the remote learner? How can we think differently about the structure of L&D programs for hybrid workers?       Check these resources:   The Economist: Remote Workers Workers Work Longer Not More Effeciently   https://www.economist.com/business/2021/06/10/remote-workers-work-longer-not-more-efficiently   Forbes: 18 Ways to Support Remote Workers   https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2023/08/08/18-impactful-ways-leaders-can-support-remote-employees-in-2023/   HBR: Guide to Managing Your Newly Remote Workers   https://hbr.org/2020/03/a-guide-to-managing-your-newly-remote-workers     Because it wouldn’t be a Happy Hour without the Happy, here are our recommendations for your Frosty Adult Beverage (FAB) of choice:   Brent: Stone Brewing Tangerine Express Hazy IPA Stone Brewing's hazy IPA gets a juicy boost from real tangerine puree in every batch. This adds not just a vibrant, hazy look, but a burst of citrus that perfectly complements the brew's bold hops   Shannon: Rose Sangria: It’s too HOT, and you need something refreshing!  A sangria always does it for me! https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/michael-symon/rose-sangria-8900276   Be part of the Learning Rebels Community. Continue the conversation while building connections and capability. Learn more here.   Join the Coffee Chat conversations Be part of Learning Rebels live Coffee Chat Discussions! Sign up here.     Hire Learning Rebels  When you need learning that sticks, we’ll fight to make performance results happen. Visit the Learning Rebels website to learn more   Host: Shannon Tipton & Brent Schlenker Podcast produced by: Obsidian Productions