In the latest episode of You Should Know, hosted by Ryan Leary of the WRKdefined Podcast Network, Jeremy Mancheski, founder and CEO of OutSolve, sheds light on the escalating HR compliance risks that many companies overlook. The conversation, published August 11, 2026, delves into the challenges posed by overlapping federal, state, and local regulations, aggressive ICE enforcement, and the rapid integration of AI in hiring processes.
Mancheski, who established OutSolve in 1998, points out that despite technological advancements, the need for experienced human oversight in compliance has not diminished. One of the primary concerns is the persistence of paper I-9 forms and inconsistent retention practices. "You could have up to $27,000 for a fine for a violation in I-9s, and that's per employee," he warns, noting that many employers are unaware of their deficiencies. With ICE enforcement on the rise, this exposure is particularly acute.
The episode also explores the complexities of managing a remote workforce. Employers must navigate a patchwork of state, city, and county regulations regarding postings, pay transparency, and reporting. Mancheski emphasizes that what is often overlooked—the humble break room compliance poster—can reveal contradictions between red-state and blue-state obligations. He advises HR leaders to physically read these posters to ensure they meet all legal requirements.
AI hiring tools come under scrutiny as well. Mancheski draws parallels between current AI systems and the first-generation applicant tracking systems of the mid-1990s, which were useful but flawed. He notes that AI bias issues are already being tested in court, with recent Workday-related litigation raising questions about accountability. "You've had harder swings in one direction, then the next administration swings them in the other, and it's muddied those lanes a bit," he says, referring to the political volatility affecting HR policies.
The uncertain future of the EEO-1 report is another topic discussed. While the federal requirement may be in flux, blue states are developing their own versions, adding another layer of complexity for employers. Mancheski argues that this fragmentation makes compliance more challenging, not less.
The underlying message of the episode is that compliance is not just a checkbox exercise; it requires continuous attention and expert interpretation. OutSolve's team of approximately 70 HR compliance consultants sees these issues firsthand in client accounts weekly. Their experience underscores the importance of staying informed and proactive in a regulatory environment that is anything but static.
For those interested in delving deeper into these topics, You Should Know is part of the WRKdefined Podcast Network, which reaches over 3.9 million verified listeners monthly. The episode is available on all major podcast platforms, offering practical insights for HR professionals navigating today's compliance minefield.
