Leave Doesn't Wait: Managing Absence When Volume Rises and Headcount Doesn't with Rachel Wyngaard

2026
Written By Dr. Shari Simpson

Eps. #201 Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026

Leave of absence looks like paperwork until you're the one holding it. A request lands, and you're reading federal, state, local, and company policy against each other while an employee waits on an answer during the worst week of their year.

In this episode…

  • Why leave requests keep climbing while HR headcount stays flat, and what that gap does to case quality

  • How the tactical thing HR asks a vendor for differs from the root need sitting underneath it

  • What changes when you design HR software for the worst day of the quarter instead of the ideal one

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your HR practices!

Guest(s): Rachel Wyngaard, Senior Product Manager, Mitratech

 

Rachel Wyngaard

Senior Product Manager

Mitratech

Guest(s): Rachel Wyngaard, Senior Product Manager, Mitratech

Rachel Wyngaard is a Senior Product Manager at Mitratech with a focus on building HR technology to solve real workforce problems.

With deep roots in HR and talent acquisition, she brings both practitioner perspective and product expertise to the Leave of Absence space, and is currently leading the build and launch of Mitratech Leave, an AI-powered leave of absence intelligence platform.

LinkedIn
Dr. Shari Simpson

Shari Simpson, EdD, SHRM-SCP, leads thought leadership at a technology company and is the founder of HR Swagger, LLC and DTG Leadership. With more than 20 years of experience in human resources, she focuses on leadership, culture, and learning experiences that help people do their best work. Shari is also the host of the HR Mixtape podcast and a frequent speaker on modern HR, leadership, and workplace transformation. Her work blends practical HR strategy with a people-first approach that helps organizations build connection, clarity, and momentum.

Beyond her professional achievements, Shari is a proud mother of three sons—one a veteran and two currently serving in the US Navy—a dedicated dog mom and an avid reader. Her 25+-year marriage to a fire department Chief adds depth to her understanding of service and dedication.

https://askhrswagger.com
Next

Too Little Too Late: Why HR's Most Important Conversations Can't Wait with Jim Link