Episodes
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Embark on a journey to the heart of nonprofit innovation with Stacy Lowry, CFO of Waterford Country School, who masterfully bridges the gap between finance and human resources. Learn how progressive HR strategies, such as employee referral programs and bonus vacation systems, aren't just buzzwords but are critical components in the retention of a passionate workforce. Stacy's candid sharing of the recent revamp of their employee handbook to address employee burnout is a testament to the power of empathetic policy-making in sustaining a non-profit's mission.
As we peel back the layers of HR challenges specific to the non-profit sector, Stacy sheds light on the ingenuity required when faced with staff reductions and the administrative intricacies introduced by legislative changes like Connecticut's paid leave program. Her insights highlight the skills necessary to navigate the unique landscape of HR in this field—organization, compassion, and a knack for process improvement. Stacy also covers the challenges of caring for a workforce whose mission is to care for others. For those in the trenches of non-profit management or simply intrigued by the sector's HR dynamics, this episode promises a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiring tales from an organization making a tangible difference in the lives of youth and animals alike.
Find Stacy Lowry Here:
LinkedIn
Facebook
www.waterfordcountryschool.orgConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Dr. Khalilah Olokunola, Sr. Advisor, Talentnova, known to many as KO, joins us to share her pivotal role in reimagining human resources for justice-impacted individuals. Her transformative journey from event and set design to spearheading HR innovation demonstrates a steadfast commitment to championing marginalized talent. Through her collaboration with True Colors and establishment of the Disrupt You onboarding program, KO illustrates how HR can serve as a catalyst for genuinely inclusive, purpose-driven, and prosperous workplaces.
The conversation takes a deep dive into the nuances of fair chance hiring, revealing that it's about more than just filling positions—it's about tapping into the often-overlooked potential of those who've faced legal challenges. We explore how companies can perform self-assessments, spot allies within their ranks, and embrace interviewing practices that foster inclusivity. By sharing success stories from corporations like JP Morgan Chase and initiatives such as the Second Chance Business Coalition, we underscore how fair chance hiring not only leads to lower attrition rates but also bolsters a company's culture and morale, all while contributing to the larger social fabric.
Navigating the intricacies of fair chance hiring isn't without its challenges, yet it offers a horizon of hope for many. We delve into strategies for employers to overcome biases and create environments that are truly inclusive, emphasizing the full person framework in recruitment, considering cognitive abilities, motivation, skills, and resilience. Our engagement with KO brings forth compelling anecdotes and practical insights, culminating in a discussion on the power of resilience, skills-based hiring, and the ripple effect such practices have on communities. For those seeking a fresh start, it's not just about a job—it's about the transformative potential of a second chance.
Find, Dr. Khalilah "KO" Olokunola here:
khalilaholokunola.com
LinkedIn
Do/ Recruit/ How to Find and Keep Great People
Instagram @ Khailahequips
Talentnova.comConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Episodes manquant?
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HR virtuoso Sally Loftis from Loftis Partners shares the "Secret Sauce" of fair compensation and the evolving landscape of pay equity. Our enriching conversation transitions from understanding the nuances of pay equity, pay parity, and pay transparency to the societal shifts in discussing compensation. We dissect what fair compensation really means in today's workforce, emphasizing the importance of living wages and the implications of thriving wages in a post-pandemic era.
As we navigate the tricky terrains of pay transparency and legislation, you'll uncover how state laws affect employers with multi-state workforces. Sally and I reveal why establishing objective pay structures can build trust and foster a transparent workplace culture. Our insights will guide you through leveraging employee feedback and demographic understanding to craft equitable pay strategies that bolster engagement and minimize turnover. This discussion is a treasure trove for any business looking to adapt and thrive amid the complexities of modern compensation laws.
Wrapping up, we tackle the hot-button issues of compensation negotiation and the necessity for HR professionals to stay vigilant against bias and cultural influences. With a sneak peek into Sally's upcoming book on pay equity for nonprofits. Tune in for a groundbreaking episode that's as informative as it is transformative, while we look beyond the dollars and cents of compensation.
Find Sally Loftis Here:
LinkedIn
Loftis Partners
InstagramConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Have you ever found yourself stifling a yawn during yet another monotonous meeting, wondering if there's more to the workday than just deadlines and dreary tasks? Our latest guest, Jeff Harry of Rediscover Your Play, brings a whirlwind of energy as he champions injecting play into the workplace, transforming it into a hub of creativity and fulfillment. This episode is not your typical business talk; it's an exploration of how integrating play can nurture mental health and skyrocket employee engagement.
We're tossing the conventional playbook out the window and challenging you to rethink the very foundation of your work ethos. This isn't about adding a ping pong table to the break room; it's about tapping into the 'zone of genius' where employees can leverage their passion and talent. Imagine meetings where your favorite snack is as welcome as your ideas, and where creativity isn't stifled by the four walls of a conference room. It's a fresh take on Maslow's hierarchy of needs, infused with insights from the Blackfoot Nation.
But it's not all fun and games; we also confront the stark realities of corporate culture, from impersonal layoffs to prioritizing profits over people. Through discussing real-life corporate missteps, we highlight the urgent need for a more humane approach to employee treatment and HR practices. Jeff Harry's magnetic mission and approach to work will leave you eager to shake things up at your office, one playful step at a time.
Connect with Jeff Harry at:
Rediscover Your Play
The Bow Tie Story
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube
TicTokConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
In this episode guest Rebecca Hawkins joins Dana to discuss the culture of the Regenerative Workplace. What is a Regenerative workplace you may ask? It is an organizational culture that recognizes and meets the core needs of their employees as human beings.
People have been studying human needs and how they translate to the workplace for a while now. You've probably heard of Maslow's needs hierarchy of needs or McGregor's theory X and theory Y. Maybe you are familiar with more recent takes from the likes of Dan Pink and others. The consensus is when employee's core needs are met, they will be better, more productive employees.
Rebecca has made it her mission to help organizations recognize in order to succeed in the future, they need to recognize we are in the 4th stage of industrial revolution, one based on knowledge, technology, and sustainability. Rebecca has plenty of science to back an organizational strategy based on the earlier revolutionary stages is increasingly both unhealthy and unsustainable.
Dana and Rebecca get deep as to why so many industries and organizations are so reluctant to adopt a new method that the innovators like Zappos have already proven works. Enjoy our 80'th episode as we dive into the Regenerative Revolution.
Find Rebecca Hawkins here:
LinkedIn
Regenerative WorkplacesConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Join your host Dana Dowdell and guest Fletcher Wimbush as they dive into the mission vision and values of talent acquisition. If you think talent acquisition is a painful process, you are not alone. Fletcher share's through his experience, a secret to becoming good at talent acquisition is learning from those painful moments.
Imagine a recruitment strategy so compelling, it not only attracts the best candidates but also aligns with their deepest aspirations. We delve into the powerful draw of an Employer Value Proposition (EVP) and how it can turbocharge your recruitment marketing. Fletcher also discusses the value of assessments in separating the great from the good once you are attracting the desired talent.
Even if you have found that perfect hire, the job still isn't done. The conversation to the importance of onboarding and accountability. Even the best candidate will struggle to succeed in an organization without access to the right tools or leadership that recognizes their weaknesses. Enjoy this episode with Dana and Fletcher as they share some Quirky insight on recruiting.
Find Fletcher Wimbush at:
LinkedIn
https://fletcherwimbush.com/
https://www.discoveredats.com/Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Discover how the very foundation of your work life is shifting in an enlightening discussion with Stela Lupushor and Dr. Solange Charas, leaders in reshaping the workforce. Our conversation peels back the layers of the employee experience, revealing its critical impact not just on personal well-being but on a company's financial performance as well. Delve into how the management of human capital can no longer be seen as a mere good practice, but rather as a driver of significant value. Stela and Solange argue that every interaction, from the moment a potential hire encounters a company to the lingering thoughts of a former employee, shapes the evolving landscape of worker agency and organizational success.
As the workforce's demographics transform and diminish, so too must our understanding of what employees crave in their careers. Our experts dissect the importance of programs that transcend generational stereotypes by offering flexibility and inclusivity, addressing the varying life stages of workers. The pioneering potential of GenAI and robotics isn't just science fiction; it's a practical pathway to challenging the archaic nine-to-five in favor of more satisfying, productivity-boosting work practices.
Prepare to be intrigued by the promise of generative AI's role in crafting new job roles and anticipating turnover. Stela and Dr. Solange welcome you to join their mission to humanize the workplace, inviting listeners to connect and explore their series on job redesign with AI—a testament to the undeniable value of nurturing the human element in our corporate worlds.
Find them at:
Dr. Solange Charas : linkedin
Stela Lupushor : linkedin
Book and Blog, Humanizing Human Capital: https://www.humanizinghumancapital.com/
Article Referenced published by Business Insider; Return to Work Policies Don't Improve Company PerformanceConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Facing the loss of a loved one is a harrowing journey that doesn't pause at the office door, a truth Kate Mollison knows all too well. After her world was shaken by personal tragedy, she encountered the chill of an unsympathetic workplace. Our conversation with Kate uncovers the deep need for workplaces to weave compassion into their fabric, something she passionately advocates for through her initiative "On Tuesdays, We Wear Black." As she shares her story, we explore the stark reality of grief's toll on both employees and employers, revealing the staggering economic losses that result from inadequate support systems.
We shed light on the recent legislative changes in Connecticut that recognize the impact of grief and PTSD in workers' compensation, reinforcing the message that the time for change is now. Kate also notes how even in the absence of policy, there are a number of changes we as employers, employees, and members of society can make, such as the language we use, that take little effort but have a large impact.
As Kate shares a tender tribute to her late husband, we are gently reminded that talking about grief and death need not be shrouded in discomfort. From a simple pink tie to the broader gestures we make to honor our loved ones, this conversation invites us to embrace these topics with openness and sincerity. We show you how discussing the undiscussable can create spaces for healing and remembrance in every aspect of our lives.
Find Kate Mollison at:
On Tuesday's We Wear Black : https://www.otwwb.com/
LinkedIn : linkedin.com/in/kate-mollison-332259273
Don't forget to save the date, february 13th, to check out the premier of Kate's upcoming podcast on your favorite platforms - Happily Never After Turning the Page, after Spousal LossConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Unlock the potential within your business by embracing the untapped talent of individuals with disabilities and some resources that may help along the way. Listen in as Alicia Kucharczyk from the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services and Dana discuss the transformative power of Vocational Rehabilitation (VocRehab) on this episode of Quirky HR. Alicia brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing how VocRehab’s counseling, job training, and tailored programs not only empower those with disabilities but also equip employers with the tools to foster truly inclusive workplaces. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to be at the forefront of inclusion in the workplace, and for corporate leaders committed to creating a workspace that thrives on the diversity of its people.
Alicia delves into the importance of disability awareness training and how simple adjustments can often meet the needs of employees without going through a formal ADA process. Dana and Alicia also discuss the delicate topic of mental health in the workplace, strategies for destigmatization, and how to strike a balance between providing support and meeting operational demands. Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, or someone passionate about creating a workplace where everyone has an opportunity to excel, this conversation with Alicia Kacharzyk is an enlightening exploration of the human side of business.
You can find the resources Alicia mentioned at the following:
http://disabilityworksct.org
https://portal.ct.gov/rehabilitationservices?language=en_US
Or you can reach out to Alicia directly on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-kucharczyk-523808122/Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
This week we are joined by Major Kevin Kane of the Connecticut Army National Guard and Director of Enterprise Systems at Wesleyan University. We discuss bridging the gap between military service and civilian employment, sometimes simultaneously. In this episode Major Kane shares how to look beyond a service members battle hardened resume, to the soft skills underneath, and the potential benefits to employers.
Transitioning from the battlefield to the business field comes with its unique set of challenges. Kevin explains the difficulties of balancing "Three Buckets", military, civilian work, and family. Beyond that we touch on some potential impacts of others in the workplace.
The episode is layered with practical advice and resources that support veterans in making their transition a celebrated chapter of their career as well as recognising By the end of this episode, you'll understand why creating a workplace that celebrates the service of its veteran employees is not just a noble act but a strategic advantage.
You can find Major Kane on Linkedin here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinlkanect/Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Our guest this week is Claire Chandler, the mastermind behind Talent Boost. Claire shares with us how her experiances along her never say never journey have helped her succeed in becoming a successful HR professional and businesswoman. Listen along on this adventure, and hear how she recounts the life-altering moment when someone recognized her potential, and the importance of leaders doing the same.
We cover a lot in this episode. Talent is not about merely fostering an "entrepreneurial spirit" but truly embracing individuality and creativity. Claire tells us why Millennials are underappreciated when it comes to their role in shaping company culture with their pursuit of community and purpose. We even address the age-old conundrum faced by colossal corporations - how do you align an employee's passion with their role?
And here's a little sneak peek - Claire spills the beans on her upcoming book as well as her unique growth on purpose methodology! So, whether you're an HR professional gearing up for grand growth or just curious about workplace dynamics, this episode packs a punch.
Find Claire Chandler at the following;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairechandlersphr/Company website: https://www.talentboost.netPersonal website: https://www.clairechandler.netGrowth on Purpose roadmap: https://www.clairechandler.net/roadmapYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC43Iz8yWW1gPKN6PkF-wi4g?view_as=subscriberConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Imagine a world where your HR practices are fine-tuned to prevent burnout and promote leadership accountability. That's precisely what we're exploring on this episode of Quirky HR, with the assistance of the inimitable Stephanie Tishler, powerhouse behind Tishler Coaching Services. Stephanie’s diverse professional journey, her transition from advertising to working at home for the great Oprah Winfrey, makes her the perfect accomplice for this deep dive. We traverse through the dynamic landscape of the labor market, discussing the seismic shifts brought about by the pandemic and how employers are attempting to pace with it.
Ever wondered about the power of open-ended questions or the concept of stay interviews? We unravel these concepts and more, even dabbling in the interesting study of Love Languages and their application in the workplace. As we scrutinize the motif of motivation, the discussion takes an unexpected turn towards exit interviews. Perhaps an underused tool, but one filled with potential to provide priceless feedback for HR managers. We promise you an episode brimming with insights, as Stephanie shares her wisdom and even provides details on how you can avail her services. So, don your headphones and get ready for a journey of discovery and learning.
Connect with Stephanie HERE --> https://tishlercoachingservices.com/
Stephanie on LinkedinConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Ever wondered what it truly means to have 'executive presence'? Get ready to have all your burning questions answered as we welcome back executive consultant and coach, Liz Tracy, who helps us peel back the layers of this leadership buzzword. She breaks it all down into four essential components, showing us that it's not just about superficial appearances, but a harmonious blend of qualities that enable a leader to exude confidence, credibility, and authority.
Our conversation with Liz takes us on a deep dive into each of these components. How do you involve others in decision-making without compromising your authority? How do you manage your emotions when faced with tough calls? Liz provides insightful answers to these questions and more, even shedding light on the critical role of inclusive leadership and the importance of healthy conflict. We also explore the challenges faced by various groups, particularly women, in leadership roles and how to navigate them.
Connect with Liz HERE -> https://www.tracycoaching.com/
You can find Liz on Linkedin HERE --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/aboutliztracy/
Interested in learning more about Executive Presence? More resources from Liz can be found below.
https://blog.stewartleadership.com/6-consequences-of-a-poor-executive-presence
https://blog.stewartleadership.com/what-is-executive-presence
https://blog.stewartleadership.com/6-tips-to-improve-your-executive-presence-through-languageConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Are you curious about the diverse field of Human Resources? Wondering how it shapes the future work and how you can tread along this exciting career path? Join us as we pick the brains of HR maven and author, Kelsey Beckfield. She shares her intriguing career switch from advertising to HR, and her transition into consultancy. She and your host Dana Dowdell discuss the evolution of HR from transactional to strategic. Kelsie shares how the question, "Did you fire anyone today?" led to her creating the book 'I Want To Work In Human Resources' and how that experiance relates to her work / life balance.
This isn't just a book for kids; it's a treasure trove of insights into the many aspects of HR. It's a powerful tool that encourages creative solutions to workforce shortages and emphasizes the vital role of HR in molding the future of work. Kelsie candidly discusses the book's potential to inspire the next generation of HR professionals. Nobody really says they want to work in human resources when they grow up. Kelsie's book may change that.
Find Kelsie Beckfield @:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbeckfield/
Beckfield Consulting: https://bchr-squad.monday.com/boards/4608529346/pulses/5028985410
'I Want To Work In Human Resources' : https://www.amazon.com/I-Want-Work-Human-Resources-ebook/dp/B0BC1ZD9XKConnect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
From navigating through the world of journalism, advertising, and marketing to gracing the sphere of leadership consulting, our guest Sonya Shelton has experienced an astonishing career trajectory. Today, she's not just a renowned executive leadership consultant but also a best-selling author, helping organizations align their business strategy with their culture. This enlightening conversation takes you on her journey, highlighting the profound challenges she faced while maintaining company culture during an upheaval period at the Walt Disney Company.
Sonya's powerful insights into the symbiotic relationship between organizational culture and business strategy are a revelation. She recalls her time at Disney, explaining how she fostered a microculture and the tactics she employed to safeguard it amidst chaos different leadership styles can create. Sony provides tips on how to stay mission focused when leadership isn't and the importance of purpose.
To connect with Sonya,
email: https://[email protected]
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/all/?keywords=Sonya%20Shelton&origin=GLOBAL_SEARCH_HEADER&sid=.da
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonya_shelton/?hl=en
You're an Executive But Are You a Leader? https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Executive-But-Leader-Communicating-ebook/dp/B007FPHK7Y
Executive Leadership Counseling : https://executiveleader.com/sonya-shelton/Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Imagine having the secret ingredients to brew remarkable employee relations and invigorate your workplace! That's exactly what we're discussing in this fascinating session, drawing inspiration from the influential insights of Dan Pink, renowned for his compelling TED Talk on team motivation as well as his many books. We dissect his three fundamentals for engagement: autonomy, mastery, and purpose, underscoring their significance in building constructive employee rapport. Dana challenges us all to be better leaders and provides tangible ways to do it. When is the last time you truly and uniquely, thanked an employee beyond saying good job?
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Get ready to be inspired by the journey of Sam Eaton, global business coach and the owner of Mindability Consulting. We talk all about HR consulting, the business side of being an HR founder, and the future she envisions for those in the fractional or consulting HR sphere.
Connect with Sam on Linkedin HERE --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthaeaton1450/
Learn more about Mindability Consulting HERE --> https://mindabilitybusinesscoaching.com/Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
September is Suicide Prevention month. Together with our colleague and consultant Brandon, we broach the often-avoided topic of mental health in the workplace and promise to equip you with some real, tangible resources –NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE Dial, #988, for the CRISIS HOTLINE Dial #211, or check out the resources the Department of Labor has to offer at, https://www.dol.gov/general/mental-health-at-work?_ga=
In this episode we explore the importance of mental health benefits such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and why you should explore and familiarize yourself with the resources your organization offers. We touch on proactive listening. There are many resources available, please don't limit yourself to just what we covered in this episode.Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Join us again for a conversation between your favorite Quirky host Dana Dowdell goes another round of questioning with employee Brandon Chance of Boss Consulting HR. In this episode Brandon asks Dana some thought provoking questions reflecting on her career in Human Resources as well as other topics. They touch on how to maintain control of professional conversations with employees who want to drive the narrative, having the brain of a goldfish, and how HR is portrayed in pop culture.
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic -
Imagine journeying from an English major to an MBA, launching a career at IBM, and traversing the international world of HR. That's exactly the path our guest, Ken Somers, has walked. His wealth of experience, from navigating the 2008-2009 recession to founding his own consulting business, offers an insightful perspective on the shifting landscapes of HR both domestically and internationally. Ken's 'answers for the real world' approach will be a revelation, especially to small businesses looking to leverage HR functionality.
Ever pondered the critical role of culture and leadership in organizations, particularly as they brace for a generational change in their leadership team? Ken Somers will shed light on this and more. He dives into the value of an ESOP (employee stock owned company) and underscores the importance of securing leadership buy-in to drive change. Whether you're an HR professional or a business owner, don't miss this chance to connect with Ken for HR services. His journey offers a plethora of insights that could alter the way you perceive and handle HR matters.Connect with us:
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Dana Dowdell - Boss Consulting - @bossconsultinghr - @hrfanatic - Montre plus
