EPISODE #33
Culture Beats Office Mandates
In Episode 33 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, we dive into the critical question: Is it really about productivity, or is it about culture? Everywhere you look, companies are making headlines with layoffs, return-to-office mandates, and massive investments in AI. But behind all the noise, business leaders can’t afford to ignore the bigger picture. Join hosts Hunter Miranda and Eric Farber in this insightful episode as they dive deep into some of the most urgent conversations shaping the future of work today: Microsoft’s new return-to-office mandate and what it means for the hybrid era. The wave of layoffs hitting Microsoft, Oracle, Klarna, and others. Why building company culture has never been harder—and why it matters more than office mandates. How AI tools like Copilot and Claude are enabling solo entrepreneurs to build million-dollar businesses overnight. What these shifts mean for leaders scaling companies and hiring talent, especially in remote LATAM markets. Key Idea: Scaling isn’t about forcing people back to the office; it’s about creating a culture, clarity, and systems that make great work possible anywhere. Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome back! Hunter & Eric reunite 00:30 – Tech layoffs & the return-to-office push 01:00 – Microsoft’s hybrid work mandate explained 03:00 – Microsoft Copilot and the future of AI in work 04:00 – Layoffs at Microsoft, Klarna, Oracle: what’s happening 05:00 – The challenge of moving talent back to big cities 07:00 – How AI is creating solo billion-dollar companies 07:45 – Craigslist, startups & lean business lessons 08:30 – Why culture beats office mandates for scaling 08:45 – Closing thoughts: culture is the real growth engine If you’re a business leader, startup founder, or HR professional looking for insights on remote work, culture, AI, and hiring trends, this conversation is for you. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter
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EPISODE: #32
The Key to Solving the US Worker ShortageAug 26, 2025
In this episode 32 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, I share why outsourcing in Latin America isn’t just about cutting costs, it’s the key to overcoming the U.S. labor shortage. With 10,000 baby boomers retiring daily and only 4,000 new workers entering the market, businesses will soon face a 6 million worker gap. I break down: Why U.S. companies won’t be able to fill roles locally. The specialized skills that will be hardest to find. Why AI won’t replace most jobs anytime soon. How a remote-first framework with LATAM talent can future-proof your business. If you want to scale smarter and stay competitive, this episode is for you. Chapters: 00:00 – Why the U.S. is running out of workers 01:20 – Population pyramid flip & 6M worker shortage 02:15 – Skills in highest demand: AI, cybersecurity, marketing 03:26 – The AI myth: will it really replace workers? 06:21 – Entrepreneurship & hiring challenges for startups 09:36 – Outsourcing = cost savings & no tariffs 10:54 – Why outsourcing is a long-term necessity 12:43 – LATAM talent advantage 14:28 – Building a remote-first company 17:08 – Final thoughts on scaling with outsourcing About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter
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EPISODE: #31
The Real Risks of Replacing Staff with AIAug 21, 2025
If you’re a founder, managing partner, or service-based business owner, you’ve probably heard big companies claim AI will replace jobs in the name of efficiency. In this episode, I break down why that messaging can quietly erode morale, where leaders get AI overconfidence wrong, and the hidden ways hallucinations and “yes-man” AI behavior can lead to costly decisions. Here’s what we cover: What Amazon’s CEO actually said about AI job cuts and how employees reacted Why timing matters when sending AI replacement messages How this approach creates disengagement and fuels quiet quitting Why hallucinations and AI “sycophancy” undermine leadership decisions Real-world consequences when companies trust flawed AI outputs How leaders can position AI as augmentation, not replacement, to retain talent and reduce risk If you’re hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you make smarter, more sustainable choices about where AI fits in your business. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter – https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter
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EPISODE: #30
Test Job Titles & Pay for Better HiresAug 20, 2025
If you’re a small business owner hiring remotely especially for a law firm, service-based business, or founder-led team guessing what to pay and how to title your next hire can lead to slow hiring, mismatched candidates, and endless back-and-forth. In this video, I’ll walk you through a simple four-post experiment that uses data, not guesswork, to find the pay and title combo that attracts your best candidates. You’ll leave with a repeatable method you can run anytime you’re unsure about compensation or wording in your job ads. You’ll learn: How to design a 3–4 variant job posting test Why to keep responsibilities the same but change title and exact pay Which channels to use for clean, useful data Why exact pay outperforms ranges in testing The key metrics to track for a winning offer If you’re hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you set pay with confidence and attract the right people faster. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter
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EPISODE: #29
Why Testing Candidates Leads to Better HiresAug 19, 2025
If you’re a small business owner hiring remotely, especially in a law firm, service based business, or founder led team, every hire is a risk. This video is about the one strategy top companies use to reduce that risk: candidate testing. I’ll walk you through why adding structured, role-specific tests after the first interview helps you spot the people who can truly deliver long-term value, not just charm you in an interview. You’ll learn: How testing helps you filter for long term performance Why structured interviews and clear expectations matter When to introduce tests in your hiring process The risk of relying only on “gut feel” in interviews How to focus your time on the most promising candidates If you’re hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you make smarter, more confident decisions. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter – https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter #RemoteHiring #HiringTips #CandidateTesting #StructuredInterviews #SmallBusinessHiring #LawFirmHiring #FounderLedTeams #TeamBuilding #Delegation #Nearshoring #InterviewTips #HiringProcess #TalentAssessment #BusinessGrowth #SmartHiring
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EPISODE: #28
How Gig Workers Stall Your GrowthAug 14, 2025
I work with founders who want to scale service businesses without losing time to hiring mistakes. In this episode, I break down why relying only on gig workers and freelancers could be holding your company back, and why full time, committed team members are the real foundation for growth. If you’re a law firm owner, service provider, or founder led team hiring remotely, you’ll walk away knowing exactly how to transition from project based outsourcing to building a long term team that supports your revenue goals. Here’s what I cover: The hidden communication and productivity costs of gig work Why evolving services require team members who understand your business deeply How full-time employees compound knowledge and strengthen company culture The true cost of hiring and onboarding, and how to get ROI faster How an Employer of Record can handle payroll, compliance, and HR issues for international hires Practical steps to start building a committed remote team If you’re hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you scale faster and with less stress. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter: Click here
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EPISODE: #27
Outsmarting Recessions with Smarter Hiring DecisionsAug 13, 2025
If you’re a founder led small business, a law firm, or a service provider, this video is for you. Most owners think recession proofing means cutting costs when things get tough. I take the opposite approach: prepare while times are good so you can grow when others are shrinking. In this episode, I break down how strategic remote hiring, especially from top talent in Latin America, can save you up to 70% on salaries without sacrificing quality, and set you up to keep your team intact no matter what the economy does. You’ll learn: Why traditional hiring models fail small service businesses in a downturn The data-backed reason to start preparing before the economy dips How outsourcing and nearshoring can keep your margins strong The key roles to hire remotely to free up your time as a founder Why Latin America is a hidden talent market for U.S. service providers If you're hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you make better hiring decisions today so you can thrive tomorrow. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Subscribe to our newsletter – https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #26
How Disengagement Quietly Kills Small TeamsAug 12, 2025
In this episode, I break down Gallup’s 2025 Global Workplace Report and why it matters more than ever for small service business founders like you. If you're hiring remote talent or building your first few roles, this data is your wake-up call. With 77% of employees worldwide disengaged, the cost of getting it wrong isn’t just wasted money; it’s lost momentum. I walk you through how disengagement starts, why it hits small teams harder, and how you can build systems that set your hires and your business up for long term success. You’ll Learn: Why most disengagement isn’t about bad hires. It’s about lack of clarity What to fix before hiring your first or second remote team member How to create an onboarding process that builds trust and long-term retention Why “you can’t delegate chaos” and what to do instead The myth of corporate red tape (and how small businesses create their own) Simple steps to start building scalable systems even if you're a solo founder If you’re hiring remotely or building a lean team, this will help you avoid expensive mistakes and build a company people want to stay with. Helpful Links: https://www.hiresmartscalefast.io Subscribe to our newsletter – Click here
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EPISODE: #25
Side Hustle to CEO: Grow Your Service Business THE ...Aug 07, 2025
What does it really take to grow a service business to 7+ figures? 💡 This episode is a masterclass in building smart, hiring right, and leading with vision, from someone who started in an attic and now runs 3 global companies. On Hire Smart Scale Fast, Hunter sits down with serial entrepreneur and SAP expert Cris Carter, who shares how he turned a scrappy start-up into a group of thriving companies with global teams and performance-driven cultures. From hiring your first team member to delegating like a CEO, Cris breaks down the real (and messy) journey of scaling. Plus, he opens up about what finally helped him step back, and why hiring globally might be your smartest move yet. Whether you're a solo founder, small agency owner, or early-stage entrepreneur, this episode is packed with practical insights on: ✅ Knowing when to delegate ✅ Building a performance-based culture ✅ Hiring offshore without losing quality ✅ Leveraging AI and tech to stay ahead ✅ And how to stop being the bottleneck in your business
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EPISODE: #24
Scale Like McKinsey: 12 Elements to Grow Without a ...Aug 06, 2025
Think McKinsey frameworks are only for Fortune 500s? Think again. These 12 elements will change how you scale, systemize, and build freedom into your business. In this episode of Hire Smart Scale Fast, Hunter breaks down McKinsey’s brand-new Organized to Value framework. An evolution of their iconic 7-S model. While it was built for global giants like Apple and Amazon, these 12 elements can supercharge any service-based business, no matter the size. Discover how to: Build systems that scale Delegate with confidence Create a high-performance remote team Stop being the bottleneck in your business If you're an entrepreneur or service business owner who wants more freedom, less friction, and smarter growth, this episode is your playbook.
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EPISODE: #23
How to Scale Your Business Without Becoming a ...Aug 05, 2025
Are you struggling to scale your service business because you don’t trust your team to maintain quality without constant oversight? In this episode of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, solo host Hunter Miranda breaks down a proven framework to delegate effectively without slipping into micromanagement. Learn how to turn your hands on experience into scalable systems that empower your team, protect quality standards, and give you back your time. Your chaotic beginnings are your secret weapon. Use what you’ve learned to build systems that scale sustainably without sacrificing control.
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EPISODE: #22
Hiring Your First Remote Employee? Use These 5 ...Jul 31, 2025
Hiring your first remote employee? Or your 10th? In this episode, Hunter breaks down how small service business owners especially those without a corporate background can set up simple but powerful onboarding systems to help remote hires ramp up fast and feel like part of the team from day one. Forget complex tech stacks and fancy HR playbooks. If you're a founder or operator scaling your first hires, what you need is clarity, connection, and a repeatable system. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #21
Remote Teams Failing? Fix Your Communication Like ThisJul 30, 2025
Hiring your first remote employee? Or your 10th? In this episode, Hunter breaks down how small service business owners especially those without a corporate background can set up simple but powerful onboarding systems to help remote hires ramp up fast and feel like part of the team from day one. Forget complex tech stacks and fancy HR playbooks. If you're a founder or operator scaling your first hires, what you need is clarity, connection, and a repeatable system. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #20
Build a Team Not a Burnout with Remote TalentJul 29, 2025
You didn’t leave your 9-to-5 to work more hours. But if you're answering emails at midnight, chasing invoices, and stuck in daily tasks, you’ve built a job, not a business. In Episode 20 of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, host Hunter Miranda breaks down the real reason service-based founders feel stuck even when things are “going well” and how remote hiring is helping small teams scale faster, leaner, and with more freedom. If you're tired of doing everything yourself and want to scale smarter, this episode will change how you think about building your team. Time stamps: 00:00 - Intro: Why you feel stuck even when you're “doing everything right” 01:25 - The real reason founders start businesses 03:15 - Why traditional hiring doesn’t work for lean teams 05:05 - Remote hiring advantages & success stories 07:42 - Delegation: from doing to directing 10:05 - Addressing doubts about remote hiring 12:00 - Final thoughts: Build smarter, not just bigger About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #19
The Talent Revolution: Why Founders Are Hiring in LATAMJul 24, 2025
In Episode 19 of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, Hunter Miranda breaks down Deloitte's latest insights on the workforce crisis, the "experience gap," and how U.S. founders can gain a competitive edge by hiring experienced, agile professionals from Latin America. Discover why AI, remote work, and distributed teams are shifting the game, and how you can build capacity without burning through your budget. From reinventing management to embracing "stagility," this episode is packed with strategies for modern founders. Time stamps: 00:00 – Intro: The experience gap & hiring crisis 01:45 – The Catch-22 of entry-level experience 03:10 – Rising expectations vs lack of experience 05:00 – LATAM professionals as the overlooked solution 07:30 – Why U.S. founders are missing out on global talent 09:15 – What Deloitte's report reveals about AI & the workforce 11:40 – LATAM talent + AI = a powerful combination 14:00 – Stagility: Balancing worker stability with business agility 16:20 – Time zones as a hiring advantage About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #18
he Culture Crisis: Why 70% of Remote Teams FailJul 23, 2025
How do you create a thriving culture in a fully remote team? Most founders don’t even realize they’re building one — until it’s too late. In this episode, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda break down the hidden ways founders shape team culture, why 70% of remote hires fail, and the 4 silent killers of remote environments. With stories from Uber, Spanx, and real startups, you’ll learn how to build a culture that actually works — even across time zones. Time stamps: 00:00 — Intro 01:22 — Uber vs. Spanx: Two very different company cultures 03:07 — How founders shape remote team behavior 05:45 — Why 70% of remote hires fail 07:30 — Your behavior becomes the team’s culture playbook 09:20 — The 4 culture killers in remote companies 12:05 — Real examples of companies getting remote culture right 13:00 — How culture compounds over time About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #17
The Founder’s Blind Spot That Drove Talent AwayJul 22, 2025
In Episode 17 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, Hunter Miranda breaks down the hidden legal risks U.S. founders face when hiring remote talent in Latin America. From $400,000 fines in Colombia to Brazil’s crackdown on digital payments, this episode is a wake-up call for any startup founder trying to cut corners by misclassifying full-time remote workers as contractors. Hunter reveals a 3-step decision framework to legally protect your company and shares the exact red flags that trigger audits across LATAM Time stamps: 00:00 Intro – Why we built a culture of alumni 01:14 It’s not about keeping people forever 02:03 Creating long-term relationships with your team 03:18 The mindset shift: From retention to dignity 04:41 When leaders treat people like adults 06:10 Alumni networks vs employee loyalty 07:22 What happens when you celebrate departures 09:05 The ripple effects of treating people with dignity 10:36 How Eric applies this in his own companies 12:04 Final thoughts – Building a culture that brings people back About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda Tags: #StartupCulture #CompanyCulture #LeadershipTips #FounderMindset #BusinessGrowth #WorkRelationships #Hiresmartscalefastpodcast
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EPISODE: #16
30% of Code Is Now Written by AI: What It Means for ...Jul 17, 2025
In Episode 16 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, hosts Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda unpack the ongoing wave of tech layoffs and how artificial intelligence is accelerating a new era in hiring, recruiting, and job relevance. From Microsoft’s job cuts to the rise of AI-written code, this episode breaks down the impact of economic pressure, automation, and the future of human-centered hiring. Discover what leaders, job seekers, and recruiters must do to stay ahead in a market shaped by rapid innovation—and why relevance is everything. They also share firsthand insights from HelloVV’s AI-powered platform and discuss the shortcomings of removing the human element in hiring. Whether you’re in tech, HR, or simply navigating your career, this episode delivers sharp takeaways and fresh perspectives on the future of work. Time stamps: 00:00 — Welcome + Summer weather talk 00:42 — Intro to today's topic: layoffs in tech 01:12 — Microsoft and other major layoffs explained 02:08 — AI writing code: Salesforce, Microsoft & the future of developers 03:14 — Marketing roles and automation with AI 04:04 — Robo-taxis & job displacement in transport 05:18 — Will AI take all jobs? The economic debate 06:52 — The fall of Monster & CareerBuilder 07:48 — AI recruiting: tools, challenges, and funding 08:15 — Why human interaction still matters in hiring 09:17 — Red flags in job candidate responses 09:51 — Final thoughts + episode close About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #15
Why Top Performers Don’t Always Succeed in New RolesJul 16, 2025
In episode 15 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, Hunter Miranda and Eric Farber dive into a compelling question: Should you hire the best of the best? Drawing on a Harvard Business Review study, they explore why top performers often fail to replicate success in new environments. From predictive hiring and adaptability to team culture and internal promotions, this episode is packed with insights on what really makes a great hire. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Episode 15: Should You Hire the Best? 00:45 – HBR study on top stock analysts and performance drop 01:54 – Hollywood analogy: One-hit wonders vs. long-term performers 03:10 – Why promotion history matters in hiring decisions 04:12 – When is hiring a “risky” candidate worth it? 05:02 – How to evaluate adaptability and cultural fit 05:28 – Interviewing technique: "Tell me more" and red flags 07:08 – AI talent wars and poaching top employees 07:54 – Promote from within or risk losing stars 08:44 – Final thoughts + call to action About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #14
The Risks of Remote Hiring: Fraud, Outsourcing & Hidden ...Jul 15, 2025
In Episode 14 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, Hunter and Eric dive into the viral story of Soham Parekh—an engineer who secretly worked for five tech companies while outsourcing his tasks to other developers. They discuss how remote work, VPNs, and weak hiring processes are opening the door to hidden fraud, and what business leaders can do to prevent it. From red flags in interviews to the power of real references, this episode is a must-listen for any founder building distributed teams. Plus: a real-life case from Eric’s law firm where the same scam happened—complete with stolen profile pictures. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Intro & banter 01:01 – The Soham Parekh case: working 5 jobs remotely 01:50 – Outsourcing his work to other engineers 02:30 – Eric’s personal story: dual-employed team members 03:40 – VPNs, fake setups & tech loopholes 04:38 – The North Korea content farm case 05:44 – Why interviews alone aren’t enough 06:12 – The importance of checking real references 07:28 – How career relationships reveal character 08:11 – Jobs vs careers: building long-term trust 08:30 – Teaser for next episode 08:52 – Outro About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #13
The Real Cost of Employee Turnover and How to Fix ItJul 10, 2025
Turnover isn’t just a people problem — it’s a financial one. In this episode, we break down the true cost of losing an employee, especially in leadership and specialized roles. Discover why bad hires can act like a virus in your company, and how strong culture, transparency, and smart hiring practices are your best defense. Learn the strategies successful teams use to retain top talent and reduce turnover — from pay structure to cultural alignment. Timestamps: (00:00) Why turnover hits harder than you think (01:17) The shocking cost of losing an employee (02:34) Culture as the root cause of turnover (04:28) Specialized roles = higher risk (05:51) How to measure and improve culture (07:23) What real transparency looks like (09:49) Matching roles with purpose and vision (10:48) Most professionals leave because of poor culture fit (11:39) Winning teams, winning culture (12:49) Final thoughts and takeaway About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #12
The Fake CFO Story Every Founder Should HearJul 09, 2025
We explore the shocking true story of a CFO who faked his resume and slipped through the hiring cracks of a major aerospace company. What happened next involved the SEC, a public investigation, and major fallout for the organization. We break down what went wrong, what this means for hiring in the age of AI, and how founders can protect their companies from deception at the highest level. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #11
Why Smart Hiring Can’t Save a Broken Middle ClassJul 08, 2025
In this episode, we explore the rise and decline of the middle class in the U.S., considered by many to be one of the country’s most impactful creations—and now one of its greatest losses. The conversation contrasts the wealth and legacy of today’s billionaires with those of the past, raising important questions about economic responsibility, social contribution, and the long-term impact of hiring and leadership decisions. How do we build companies—and societies—that serve more than just the few? Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:05 – The American middle class: invention or accident? 03:42 – What happened after 1980 05:10 – Billionaires then vs. now 07:30 – Musk’s rise to $300 billion 08:00 – Legacy, giving back, and public trust 09:00 – Reflections on wealth and responsibility 10:22 – Closing thoughts About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #10
Fix Your Hiring Funnel with Clear Candidate ...Jul 03, 2025
In this episode of Hire Smart | Scale Fast, hosts Hunter Miranda and Eric Farber break down a critical — and often ignored — part of the hiring process: candidate communication. Did you know 50% of applicants expect regular updates, yet 80% never hear back after applying? Learn why this is costing you top talent and how to fix it. They also explore: Why treating candidates like customers matters The role of AI in recruiting — what works and what still needs a human touch How to build long-term hiring strategies that create future leaders Whether you're scaling your startup or improving your recruitment funnel, this episode delivers valuable, actionable insights. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Puppies, podcast growth & sunny Oakland 00:36 – The #1 mistake small companies make after interviews 01:59 – Why transparent hiring processes create better hires 02:55 – 80% of candidates never hear back—why that’s hurting your brand 04:35 – Can AI do your candidate follow-up? 05:38 – Where AI helps (and where it can’t replace humans) 06:59 – Listening to candidates: what most companies miss 07:45 – Long-term hiring vision: recruiting future leaders 08:46 – Why recruiting is just client experience in disguise 09:02 – Final thoughts + call to action About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #9
First 90 Days: How to Set Your New Hires Up for ...Jul 02, 2025
In Episode 9 of Hire Smart and Scale Fast, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda unpack the critical importance of a new hire’s first 90 days. From psychological insights to tactical onboarding strategies, this episode outlines how early experiences shape long-term retention and performance. You’ll learn why onboarding is one of the most overlooked drivers of culture, how remote teams require a different approach, and why failing to create momentum early on could cost your business its best people. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or your hundredth, this episode is packed with frameworks, stats, and real-world examples that will elevate your onboarding process and strengthen your company culture. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & topics 00:32 – Importance of first 90 days 00:50 – Onboarding stat (30% drop-off) 01:50 – Power of Moments insight 03:16 – 30/60/90 framework 03:46 – 30-day reflection emails 05:22 – Remote team stat (20% more contact) 06:10 – Creating connection remotely 06:41 – Culture > convenience 08:11 – Client red flags 09:55 – Outro & wrap-up About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #8
Smarter Hiring in 2025: The Non-Negotiables for Scaling ...Jul 01, 2025
In this episode of Hire Smart and Scale Fast, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda dive deep into the biggest hiring challenges startups face in 2025. With applications per role skyrocketing by 182% since 2021, founders are overwhelmed by volume—but still struggling to find the right people. Eric and Hunter break down the key traits of successful hires, including: ✔️ Innovation ✔️ Mission alignment ✔️ Ownership mentality ✔️ Resourcefulness ✔️ Strong job history They share actionable strategies for vetting smarter, reducing bad hires, and building teams that scale—plus why posting salary in your job ads is a game-changer. If you’re a founder, HR leader, or recruiter, this episode will help you rethink how you hire and who you’re really looking for. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & the challenge of hiring smart 01:15 – 182% increase in applications per hire 04:00 – Why salary transparency matters 05:17 – The power of resourceful people 06:13 – What your resume really says about you 10:47 – How to screen for innovation 13:01 – Hiring for mission, not just money 15:39 – Ownership mentality: what to ask in interviews 17:00 – The #1 interview question that reveals long-term fit 21:06 – Two hiring horror stories you’ll never forget About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #7
The Truth About Tech Layoffs: AI, Outsourcing & the ...Jun 26, 2025
In Episode 7 of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, Eric and Hunter dive into one of the most pressing topics in the business world right now: the wave of tech layoffs. From the automation power of AI to the rise of global talent hubs like Colombia and Argentina, they explore what’s really happening behind the scenes — and what it means for the future of hiring and building companies. They also discuss why small teams might soon dominate billion-dollar valuations, the commoditization of software, and how professionals can stay ahead by learning to lead. Packed with insights and real industry data, this is a must-listen for founders, team leaders, and tech professionals navigating a shifting workforce. Time Stamps 00:00 – Intro & political noise 01:26 – What’s really behind tech layoffs 03:32 – AI's impact on the workforce 05:43 – Global talent shift: LATAM's rise 07:56 – Hiring less, but smarter: revenue per employee 09:30 – WhatsApp's billion-dollar team of 50 10:37 – Layoffs = tech commoditization 11:41 – Why leadership is the new must-have skill About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #6
. Inside Project Aristotle: The Science of ...Jun 25, 2025
In Episode 6 of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda break down Project Aristotle—Google’s massive study on team performance—and explain why psychological safety is the #1 predictor of success. You’ll learn how to build trust in remote teams, why ambiguity kills productivity, and how meaning and impact keep employees engaged. Whether you're scaling a startup or leading a growing business, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you lead—and how your culture actually works
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EPISODE: #5
Stop Hiring Wrong — Write a Killer Job PostJun 24, 2025
Writing a job post isn't just a hiring task — it's a marketing strategy. In this episode, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda dive deep into how to craft job posts that actually attract top-tier talent. From headline hooks to transparent pay and culture statements, they explore why clarity, honesty, and testing different versions matter more than ever. Plus, Eric shares why he doesn’t want a “rock star” — he wants someone who shows up and does the work. Whether you're a startup or a growing company, this episode is your blueprint for smarter hiring.
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EPISODE: #4
Smart Teams Start with Smart HiringJun 12, 2025
In this episode of Hire Smart, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda tackle one of the most difficult dilemmas in leadership: what do you do when your highest performer is also your worst cultural fit? While most hiring strategies focus on skills and output, this conversation dives deep into the unseen costs of toxic behavior — even when it comes wrapped in top-line results. Eric and Hunter explore real-world examples of how a single disruptive individual can unravel team cohesion, morale, and long-term success. They break down the psychology behind tolerating toxic talent, the dangers of confusing performance with alignment, and why great leaders must sometimes make tough, unpopular decisions to preserve team integrity. This isn’t just about hiring — it’s about creating workplaces where people thrive, not just perform. ABOUT THE SHOW Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123 Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda
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EPISODE: #3
The Power of First Impressions, mastering Employee ...Jun 12, 2025
In this episode of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda unpack one of the most overlooked yet high-impact elements of team building: employee onboarding. A strong onboarding process isn’t just a checklist — it’s the foundation of trust, connection, and retention. Eric and Hunter share proven strategies and personal stories that transform those first days into powerful moments that inspire long-term commitment. You’ll learn how to design onboarding with intention, why swag and structure matter, and how leadership presence can make or break a new hire’s experience — whether you're in-person or fully remote. This episode is a playbook for turning new hires into loyal team members from day one. ABOUT THE SHOW Hire Smart, Scale Fast helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. More episodes at: https://hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123/ Follow Hunter Miranda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda/
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EPISODE: #2
Deepfake Job Applicants? Here’s What Recruiters Need to ...Jun 11, 2025
In this episode of Hire Smart, Scale Fast, Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda dive into one of the most urgent hiring threats of 2025: AI-generated deepfakes in job applications. As artificial intelligence and remote work reshape how teams are built, they explore how fake candidates are slipping through early hiring stages and what companies must do to stay ahead. You’ll learn how job seekers are using AI avatars and synthetic video interviews to land roles they're not qualified for, why one in four job applications could soon be a deepfake, and how top teams are fighting back using predictive hiring systems across companies like Viva Global, Creators Legal, and Pacific Workers. Beyond the tech, this episode highlights the irreplaceable role of cultural alignment and human-led judgment in building teams that last. This isn’t just a warning. It’s a playbook for modern hiring. ABOUT THE SHOW Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes at: https://hiresmartpodcast.com Follow Eric Farber on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericfarber123/ Follow Hunter Miranda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda/
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EPISODE: #1
The power of values in company cultureJun 10, 2025
In this first episode of Hire Smart Scale Fast, Eric Farber, founder of Pacific Workers and Viva Global, and Hunter Miranda, a first-time leader with a background in the Fortune 500 world, dive into the foundational (and often overlooked) challenge of building company culture that actually scales. As organizations shift to hybrid and remote models, culture has become a buzzword—often confused with perks and vibes. But Eric and Hunter unpack why true company culture is about behaviors, systems, and accountability—not bean bags or pizza Fridays. They explore the uncomfortable truths of leadership, including why bad hires are like a virus, why B-players don’t hire A-players, and why growth requires more than just good intentions. This episode is a candid, practical conversation about what it takes to scale a business without losing your team’s soul—and why leaders must get smarter about hiring, fast. Because culture isn’t what you say. It’s what you tolerate. ABOUT THE SHOW Hire Smart Scale Fast is a podcast for founders, team builders, and leaders who care about company culture—and want to scale without compromising it. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show brings honest conversations, tactical insights, and hard-earned lessons on hiring, leadership, and growth. 👉 Subscribe now and join the movement to build smarter, more human companies. Want to explore more insightful episodes? Subscribe to Hire Smart Scale Fast https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hiresmartscalefast Follow Hunter Miranda on LinkedIn for leadership insights and live updates: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huntermiranda/
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EPISODE: #33
Culture Beats Office MandatesAug 27, 2025
In Episode 33 of Hire Smart Scale Fast, we dive into the critical question: Is it really about productivity, or is it about culture? Everywhere you look, companies are making headlines with layoffs, return-to-office mandates, and massive investments in AI. But behind all the noise, business leaders can’t afford to ignore the bigger picture. Join hosts Hunter Miranda and Eric Farber in this insightful episode as they dive deep into some of the most urgent conversations shaping the future of work today: Microsoft’s new return-to-office mandate and what it means for the hybrid era. The wave of layoffs hitting Microsoft, Oracle, Klarna, and others. Why building company culture has never been harder—and why it matters more than office mandates. How AI tools like Copilot and Claude are enabling solo entrepreneurs to build million-dollar businesses overnight. What these shifts mean for leaders scaling companies and hiring talent, especially in remote LATAM markets. Key Idea: Scaling isn’t about forcing people back to the office; it’s about creating a culture, clarity, and systems that make great work possible anywhere. Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome back! Hunter & Eric reunite 00:30 – Tech layoffs & the return-to-office push 01:00 – Microsoft’s hybrid work mandate explained 03:00 – Microsoft Copilot and the future of AI in work 04:00 – Layoffs at Microsoft, Klarna, Oracle: what’s happening 05:00 – The challenge of moving talent back to big cities 07:00 – How AI is creating solo billion-dollar companies 07:45 – Craigslist, startups & lean business lessons 08:30 – Why culture beats office mandates for scaling 08:45 – Closing thoughts: culture is the real growth engine If you’re a business leader, startup founder, or HR professional looking for insights on remote work, culture, AI, and hiring trends, this conversation is for you. About the show: Hire Smart helps business leaders build teams that scale smart and stay strong. Hosted by Eric Farber and Hunter Miranda, the show offers actionable insights into hiring, company culture, and leadership in the age of rapid growth and AI-driven transformation. Subscribe and learn how to hire better, lead stronger, and grow smarter. More episodes: https://hiresmartscalefast.io/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://vivaglobal.us/subscribe-newsletter
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