The Workforce Link Podcast

You landed the job — now what? The first 90 days matter more than most people think. In this episode, Sundi Jo walks you through 7 things you can do to make a great impression, build the right relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success from day one. Links In This Episode: Missouri Apprentice Connect

Is your job description driving away the candidates you actually want? In Episode 82 of The Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo Graham breaks down why job descriptions are quietly scaring away good candidates — and six practical things you can do right now to fix them. From cutting corporate jargon to leading with outcomes instead of task lists, this episode is packed with actionable tips for any emp...

Your resume might not be the problem. In this episode, we get real about the emotional side of job searching — the spiral that starts with one rejection email and takes out your entire day. If you've ever let anxiety, self-doubt, or negative self-talk get in the way of your job search, this one's for you. We're talking about how to recognize your triggers, why your emotional state dire...

When you are hiring, what carries more weight: experience or attitude? It is a question many employers face. Do you choose the candidate with years of technical expertise, or the one who brings adaptability, strong communication skills, and the right mindset? In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast, we take a closer look at this decision and why it is not an either-or choice.

Feeling pressure to have your career figured out by now? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo talks about why you don’t need all the answers to move forward. When work feels uncertain or overwhelming, clarity matters more than certainty. This conversation is about slowing down, asking better questions, and understanding what’s working for you right now. It’s a...

The start of a new year often brings reflection—and pressure. In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, we talk about what it really means to start fresh when it comes to your career or your workforce. Whether you’re thinking about a change, feeling stuck, or planning for the year ahead, this conversation focuses on clarity, goal setting, and realistic next steps. We explore why you don’t nee...

Why do some people always get things done—and how can the rest of us build those same habits? In this episode, host Sundi Jo breaks down the brain science behind accountability, drawing from research featured in Fast Company. We explore three cognitive habits that help employees stay motivated, communicate clearly, and take ownership of their work. You’ll learn how syncing expectations supports tr...

Thinking about making a career change but not sure if it's the right time—or where to even start? In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast , Sundi Jo explores what it means to pivot in your career with purpose and confidence. You’ll learn how to recognize the signs it’s time to shift, how to prepare for the transition, and what small steps you can take right now to move toward the future you...

What does the rise of AI and automation really mean for your career—or your workforce? In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast , host Sundi Jo Graham explores how technology is reshaping the world of work—and how you can adapt without fear. From job seekers wondering if AI will take their job to employers navigating team training and upskilling, we break down the facts, debunk the myths, and...

After spending over 20 years in prison, Stacy Dismang Wright walked out with more than a second chance—she walked out with purpose. In this raw and powerful conversation, Stacy shares how her journey through addiction, incarceration, and recovery led her to a new calling: helping others break the same destructive cycles she once lived in. Now a peer specialist at Lane Change, a no-cost recovery ce...

Ready to switch careers but lack experience? In this episode, Sundi Jo shares a smarter strategy than applying to 100 jobs: building authentic connections through informational interviews. Learn how to identify target companies, reach out the right way, and land real opportunities—even without a perfect résumé. Links in Today’s Episode: ⁠ Episode 27: How to Upgrade Your LinkedIn Profile to Get the...

Do we ever ask ourselves this question? “What was I born to do?” We talk about finding our why a lot on this podcast, which fits into the question, “What was I born to do?” In order to answer that question, we need to assess our lives, our careers, etc, a bit deeper. I always love a good assessment.  In Ken’s new book, Find the Work You're Wired to Do, he helps you get to the heart of who you are...

A couple of episodes ago, we reviewed an article from Asana on how to overcome imposter syndrome in the workplace. See the link below. We discussed the characteristics of imposter syndrome, the 5 types, and the 9 ways to overcome it. In this episode we'll focus on another part of the article - the six ways managers can prevent imposter syndrome. If you manage a team, you want to support them and r...

In a world full of chaos, it can be really hard to keep a positive mindset in our lives and our jobs. We’re surrounded by constant negativity - when you turn the tv on, the radio, etc. And the habits we create determine our moods, too.  Have you ever wondered how to truly connect with people from different backgrounds?  What if the key to unlocking greater self-awareness and better relationships l...

Raise your hand if you've ever questioned your abilities, feared being 'found out,' or downplayed your achievements. Guess what? That's imposter syndrome talking!   In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast , we break down this phenomenon and how to overcome it.     Links in Today’s Episode:  Imposter Syndrome State Fair Community College CDL Training Episode 03: Understanding Soft Skills Epis...

Welcome to a Workforce Link Classics episode, where we talk with Becki Duncan on the importance of leading well vs. managing, why our words matter, and why it's important to have fun on the job, no matter what role you're in.  Becki has served in higher management in the restaurant industry for over 20 years. She is passionate about ensuring her team members know they matter despite their downfall...

The traditional norms of loyalty in the workplace are rapidly evolving. The uncertainty of job security often leaves us grappling with emotions when faced with unexpected layoffs or job loss. It's a painful experience that can leave us feeling wounded and adrift, prompting two common reactions: anger and resentment towards the company or just allowing ourselves to go numb. Emotional wounds from jo...

Today’s guest, Eugina Jordan, is a trailblazing female executive and immigrant who epitomizes resilience and servant leadership. From starting her telecom career as a secretary to becoming Chief Marketing Officer at Telecom Infra Project (TIP), Eugina's journey is nothing short of inspiring.  Something that Eugena mentioned several times in our interview was the importance of knowing that we as wo...

Ah, Fridays—a day that often screams, "Freedom! Time to unwind!" But for many job seekers, it's a constant battle between taking a break and feeling guilty about not hustling for that dream job. Sometimes, we need to take a breather from the relentless job search grind. I want to spend a few minutes in today’s episode dissecting this a little.  When you’re in the midst of a job search, you can qui...

“You were put here with a mission—to “be the one” who lives a life and writes an unforgettable story for your family tree, which enables future generations to look up and say: He’s “the one” who altered the pattern of abuse. She’s “the one” who overcame the addiction, who ended our financial struggles, who snapped generational chains... He’s “the one” who set the example. She’s “the one” who inspi...

Today’s episode is all about owning your story, especially when you're gearing up for that nerve-wracking job interview. When you're in the hot seat, trying to sell yourself in a job interview, it’s important to know that it’s not just about knowing your past; it's about intimately understanding it.  Links in Today’s Episode: Warehouse Training Job Centers   Central Workforce Development Board, In...

Adulting is hard, right? Getting caught up in the day-to-day responsibilities of our jobs, families, etc., can be so easy that we forget to have fun. And if we’re not careful, we’ll burn out, get caught up in the toxic hustle culture, and more.   Well… our guest will help us figure out a way to avoid those things, help us unleash our inner child, and help our productivity soar!  Mike Montague is a...

When was the last time you took a stroll down memory lane, flipping through childhood photos? It can be an intriguing experience to encounter your younger self, with shorter, darker hair and a slightly different face. Yet, that mischievous grin and a spark of determination in your eyes remain unchanged.  The same can be said for the rest of us – some aspects evolve while others endure. However, it...

Welcome to the Season 5 season finale of The Workforce Link Podcast . We saved the best for last in this season! If you’ve been laid off, or if someone you care about lost their job recently, you’re not alone. In today’s episode, we have Ken Coleman with us to talk about some practical and effective ways to help you move forward, even in the face of anxiety and uncertainty.  Ken Coleman is a caree...

In 2021, a significant number of individuals decided to leave their jobs. The problem, however, is that many of them didn’t think about how that would affect them in explaining the why to their next employer.  If you find yourself amidst the "Great Resignation" and are uncertain about explaining your departure in an interview, we have a few suggestions for you on today’s episode. Let’s dive straig...