Buying Local Podcast · Episode 47 · October 14, 2025 · 47 min
The HR Ninja Lisa Boucher | Buying Local S3E47
In this episode of the Buying Local Podcast, host Mike Nelson chats with Lisa Boucher, founder of HR Ninja, about her journey from accounting and banking to launching her human resources consulting firm. Lisa discusses her 25 years of HR experience, her martial arts background, and how she helps small businesses navigate compliance, culture, and more. Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn or at lisaboucher.com . 00:00 Welcome & guest introduction – Lisa Boucher 00:19 Lisa’s excitement for being on the show 00:37 How Mike and Lisa met through the chamber 00:51 Adirondack Regional Chamber discussion 01:26 Matt’s cold call and mentorship 02:27 Lisa’s past roles in accounting and banking 02:43 Launch of HR Ninja consulting firm 03:05 Lisa’s martial arts background and school 03:56 Time to earn a taekwondo black belt 04:39 Gender dynamics at Lisa’s martial arts school 05:13 HR Ninja service offerings explained 06:32 Common HR needs for small businesses 07:34 Compliance challenges in New York State 08:55 Typical clients: small businesses under 50 employees 10:05 Culture’s role in HR consulting 11:46 Balancing family feel with HR expectations 13:24 Navigating policy-driven HR requirements 14:22 Paid family leave and retirement plans 20:10 Importance of employee communication 23:31 Efficient communication strategies for small teams 31:40 Lisa’s approach to interviewing for clients 39:23 Handling terminations with compassion 44:13 Vision, mission, and values in HR work 45:47 How to connect with Lisa online & wrap-up