Talent Magnet

In this episode, we are joined by David Faro, Senior Manager of Workforce and Business Development at the National Restaurant Association, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a powerful engine for career growth and long-term workforce stability. David shares his own journey from dishwasher to industry leader and explains why hospitality career pathways are often as unique as the ind...

In this episode of Talent Magnet , we explore how apprenticeship is redefining the path from education to employment—and why it may be one of the most effective solutions to today's workforce challenges. Joined by leaders from AJAC, a nonprofit workforce development organization that partners with employers to deliver paid, on-the-job training and related classroom education, we unpack how this mo...

In this episode of Talent Magnet , we're joined by Dr. Tara Deliberto to explore how forward-thinking businesses are reimagining mental health support as a key driver of retention, engagement, and long-term success. Dr. Deliberto shares her journey to Yuna and offers insight into why traditional benefits often fall short in meeting employees' day-to-day needs. Discover how AI-powered tools are eme...

In this episode we are joined by John Hansman, CEO and President of Truit, to discuss the critical and evolving role of cybersecurity in today's business landscape. John shares eye-opening insights into how cyber threats have intensified in recent years—especially for small and medium-sized businesses—and explains why cybersecurity is no longer just about technology, but also about policy, educati...

In this episode of Talent Magnet , we are joined by wellness consultant and dance therapist Maia O'Brien for a thoughtful conversation on burnout prevention and cultivating wellness in the workplace. Drawing on her diverse background in creative arts therapy, physical therapy, and community education, Maia shares insights into the mind-body-spirit connection, the power of self-awareness, and the r...

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we Michelle Whitlow, Executive Director of the Lewis County Autism Coalition. Michelle discusses the organization's mission to enhance resources and opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities in Lewis County and surrounding areas. She also shares insights on the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in employment, including misconcepti...

This episode of Talent Magnet features a conversation with Jessica Dunson, Business Performance Advisor at Insperity. Jessica discusses employee benefits and HR challenges for small and medium-sized businesses. She also explains how Insperity, as a Professional Employer Organization, helps businesses compete for talent with benefits packages, HR support, and risk management. This episode provides...

In this episode, we are joined by Erika Taylor Montgomery, CEO and President of Three Girls Media, Inc. Erika discusses the crucial topic of work-life balance and how she has made it a cornerstone of her company's culture. She also shares her journey of founding Three Girls Media nearly 19 years ago to achieve better work-life balance, and discusses her implementation of flexible schedules and rem...

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug Foresta interviews Katie McMurray, founder and CEO of Sensory Tool House LLC, about the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. They discuss practical tips for attracting and retaining neurodivergent talent, like crafting inclusive job postings, allowing interview accommodations, using direct communication, and providing sensory-friendly...

This episode features a discussion with Brittinay Lenhart, founder of Work Culture Consultant LLC, about the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and connectedness in building a positive organizational culture.  Brittinay provides practical advice for business leaders on fostering morale, productivity, and retention through prioritizing employees' well-being. Tune in to gain...

Welcome to Talent Magnet, where we explore the latest trends and insights in talent development. In this episode, we're joined by Marianne Judd, Member Investment Project Coordinator, to discuss an important topic: Digital Literacy. Digital equity and literacy are more critical than ever in today's technology-driven world. So, what exactly do these terms mean? Digital equity refers to the availabi...

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Holly Smith with L&I's Workers' Compensation Determinations Unit. She answers the question "What is an employee?" and explains what that determination can mean for businesses. With questions, reach out to the L&I Small Business Office at SmallBusiness@Lni.wa.gov or 1-800-987-0145.

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug introduces the topic of military transition and the challenges that transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face. Our guest Andrew Garate, Senior Director of Military Transition Programs and Strategic Initiatives at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce. In this interview, we'll learn the following *Andrew's role at the Thurston C...

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Mike Reid, Economic Development Director for the City of Olympia, about the Olympia Career Hub and the benefit it brings to Olympia residents. You can find out more about the Career Hub at https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaCaree... or on the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce website at https://thurstonchamber.com/olympia-c...

In this episode of Talent Magnet, Christina Evans with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, joins the program to speak about the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act, as well as at-will employment and what that means for both employers and employees. Talent Magnet is brought to you by Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, the podcast where we help businesses become talent ma...

Ty Reed, Founder of Recovery Career Services, joins the program to share his own recovery story and reveal the business case for why organizations should hire people in recovery. Ty discusses the benefits of second chance employment and why employment is so crucial for individuals in recovery. You'll also hear about how businesses can assess risk when it comes to hiring. For more information, visi...

Yesenia Sabedra, Risk Management Consultant with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, joins the program to discuss L&I's risk management consultation program, and the benefits to businesses of working with an L&I risk management consultant. Discover the 5 areas of best practice.  For questions or to request a risk management consultation please contact Bobbie Hanna at 360-870-2...

Rick Means, Director of Safety and Education with the Washington Retail Association, joins the program to discuss the launch of the new safety app SAFEME, which provides Washington area businesses with free safety and accident prevention training. Hear success stories and discover how SAFEME can help businesses save money, increase productivity, and create a safer work environment. For more inform...

Erica Minton, L&I Industrial Hygiene Consultant, joins the program to discuss some of the key takeaways that all Washington State businesses should know in relation to COVID-19 requirements. Discover resources to find out the most current information and updates on COVID-19 related requirements, and the biggest challenges that businesses are facing when it comes to COVID-19 compliance.  To learn m...

In this episode you'll hear from Lou Flores, statewide consultation manager for the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) for the state of Washington, as well as Jim Lawrence, Region Four consultation manager, and Lindsey Unruh, Region Four Industrial Hygiene Supervisor, as they discuss the DOSH consultation program. Discover how DOSH can help businesses with their goals of creating a...

Andrew Houghton, founder and president of Disability Inclusion Solutions, joins the program to discuss what businesses need to consider in order to recruit and retain people with disabilities. Andrew reveals his own journey of being a wheelchair user since a 1986 motorcycle accident, and how he has been able to enjoy sports, the outdoors and create a media production company. Discover helpful reso...

Jason Van Camp, decorated Green Beret, author of Deliberate Discomfort, and Founder and Chairman of Mission Six Zero, joins the program to discuss his Total Warrior Model, training that helps translate individual performance to team outcomes for business, as well as his NFL team clients. We also discuss the work that his non-profit Warrior Rising is doing to help veteran entrepreneurs (or "vetrepr...

Sytease Geib, former co-host of Talent Magnet and VP of Workforce Development at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, joins the program to discuss creative ways to retain talent, and the changing nature of work. Sytease discusses her own journey of moving across the country after the birth of her second child, how she has continued to do some remote project based work, and shares takeaways fro...

In this episode, you'll hear how Sierra Pacific Industries, the 2nd largest lumber producer in the U.S., is using innovative technology to capture the attention of a new generation of job seekers at hiring events. Jacquelin Earley and Joshua Zepeda from Sierra Pacific Industries join the program to discuss how they are using virtual reality (VR) headsets to give job seekers a peek into their high...

Tamara Schaffert, Chief Operating Officer of Physicians of Southwest Washington, an independent physician association based in Olympia, WA, (PSW) joins the program to discuss the shortage of primary care providers in America. Discover the scope of the problem, and the efforts that are being made to recruit and retain primary care providers in the region and nationally. Tamara also shares her thoug...