Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP

Tune in for a conversation with Lindsay Lucas, Deputy Program Director at the Council of State Governments, to discover how state and local governments can build stronger talent pipelines for the next generation of public servants. Lindsay reveals the growing need to replace retiring workers, preserve institutional knowledge, and introduce job seekers to the wide range of meaningful careers availa...

In this episode of  Workforce on the Mic , we explore how entrepreneurship, workforce development, and clean energy innovation can come together to create real community impact. Guests Dr. Kelvin Molina-Brantley and Ron Molina-Brantley of the Entrepreneurial and Business Collaborative share how their Massachusetts-based organization supports entrepreneurs, small businesses, and workers through fle...

Tune in to discover how Skilltrade is helping reshape the connection between education, workforce development, and employment opportunity through short-term, skills-based training programs designed for today's rapidly evolving workforce. In this episode of Workforce on the Mic , Alexis Franks sits down with Jason Aubrey for a conversation about employer partnerships, healthcare and skilled trades...

In this episode of Workforce on the Mic, presented by National Association of Workforce Development Professionals, Alexis Franks sits down with Earl Martin Phalen to explore how Great Jobs KC is transforming workforce development through a bold partnership-driven model. Earl shares how the organization brings together employers, training providers, community organizations, and social service agenc...

In this episode, we explore the powerful and often overlooked connection between mental health, trauma, and career success with Lion Goodman of the Clear Beliefs Institute. From chronic stress and negative self-beliefs to the realities of poverty and survival mode, we unpack why traditional workforce development strategies sometimes fall short—and what's missing. This conversation highlights a mor...

Tune in as we explore the powerful connection between mental health, personal development, and long-term career success in today's workforce. In this episode, we hear from leaders who are redefining what it means to truly support people at work: moving beyond job placement to focus on well-being, growth, and human connection. From creating spaces of accountability and community to offering simple,...

In this episode, we explore how AI is reshaping the workforce system with Corey Jones, Chief of Policy and Planning for the Governor's Workforce Board of Rhode Island. Corey breaks down what this current "window of opportunity" with AI really means for workforce professionals—highlighting both the risks of job displacement and the potential for innovation, new career pathways, and expanded access....

In this episode of  Workforce on the Mic , we explore why mental health and wellness are becoming essential components of true workforce readiness. You'll learn how a holistic, people-centered approach can help job seekers overcome barriers beyond employment—such as stress, housing instability, and emotional regulation—while also supporting the frontline staff who serve them every day. Discover pr...

In this episode, we're joined by Lindsay Blumer, President and CEO of WRTP | BIG STEP, for a timely conversation on apprenticeship readiness and why it matters more than ever in today's workforce landscape. Lindsay explores how earn-and-learn models are opening doors to high-demand careers, creating equitable and industry-led pathways, and aligning education with real-world job opportunities. Draw...

In this end-of-year episode, we're joined by Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP, to reflect on a year of growth, change, and shared purpose across the workforce development community. Together, we explore how NAWDP navigated evolving policy landscapes, organizational growth, and emerging priorities like leadership development and AI—while staying grounded in connection and service to workforce professi...

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Gonzalez, CEO & Co-Founder of District C, to explore how real-world problem solving, collaborative teamwork, and educator coaching are redefining what it means to prepare students for the modern workforce. Dan shares how District C's innovative Teamship model connects students with local businesses to tackle authentic challenges, while the Coaching Institute e...

In this episode of  Workforce on the Mic , recorded live at the Business Services Academy, you'll discover how workforce professionals across the country are reimagining what it means to engage with employers in a rapidly changing landscape. You'll hear powerful insights about building genuine relationships with businesses, creating trust that leads to lasting partnerships, and learning to focus o...

In this inspiring episode of Workforce on the Mic, Wayne Williams shares how workforce development can transform not just careers but entire communities. From his early days in direct care to leadership roles connecting job seekers, employers, and resources, Wayne highlights the power of human connection, confidence building, and cross-sector collaboration. Listeners will discover how workforce pr...

Discover how the NAWDP Leadership Academy is transforming workforce development by equipping leaders with the skills to master themselves, build strong relationships, and turn vision into action. In this episode, you will explore how the Academy blends practical learning with collaborative activities to create meaningful change in communities. You will hear how participants develop emotional intel...

In this episode, we sit down with Crystal Odom-McKinney, longtime board member and former Region Five Director for NAWDP, to explore how the organization has evolved to meet the changing needs of workforce professionals and the communities they serve. Recorded live at NAWDP's 41st annual conference, Crystal shares her personal journey from case manager to leader, the importance of intentional grow...

In this special live episode of  Workforce on the Mic , recorded at NAWDP's 41st Annual Conference in Virginia Beach, host Alexis Franks shines a spotlight on the heart of America's public workforce system: the American Job Centers (AJCs). You'll hear from  Sarita Alston, One-Stop Operator for Ross Innovative Employment Solutions in Greater Memphis, as she breaks down what AJCs really do, and why...

In this episode of Workforce on the Mic , we sit down with Greg Morris, CEO of the New York City Employment and Training Coalition, to explore how local workforce systems can drive real impact through relentless advocacy, strategic partnerships, and powerful storytelling. Greg shares insights from over two decades in the field, offering a candid look at the challenges and opportunities facing work...

In this episode of  Workforce on the Mic , guest host Kim Meadows sits down with longtime workforce advocate and industry legend Bob Knight, Director of Government Relations at Equus Workforce Solutions. Together, they explore Bob's decades-spanning journey from public service roots in 1970s Milwaukee to his role in shaping national workforce policy. Listeners will hear reflections on the evolutio...

In this episode, we are joined by Larry Robbin, Executive Director of Robbin and Associates, who shares his inspiring journey into workforce development. You'll hear how Larry's grandfather's experience as an immigrant shaped his perspective on hiring practices, and gain valuable insights on how the field has evolved to address increasingly complex barriers to employment. Larry challenges traditio...

In this episode of "Workforce on the Mic," you'll discover powerful insights on youth mentorship from Dr. Scott Brewster, co-founder and Director of Partnerships at Hats & Ladders. Listen as he shares with host Alexis Franks how to effectively guide young people through career decisions. You'll learn practical strategies for active listening, building networks, and helping youth gain confidence in...

Discover how two innovative leaders are transforming workforce development and community health in this episode of "Workforce on the Mic." Join host Alexis Franks as she speaks with Esther Lewis, CEO of Holistic Evolution Inc., who developed the Barbershop Talks program to address mental health and substance abuse prevention for young men of color, and Soyica White, CEO of The Soyica Experience, w...

In this episode of "Workforce on the Mic," host Alexis Franks sits down with NFL legend Darrell Green at the 2024 Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona.  Darrell shares his remarkable journey from professional football to becoming Eckerd Connects' first national ambassador in workforce development. He also discusses his long-standing commitment to youth development, from running learning centers and...

In this episode of "Workforce on the Mic," we are joined by B.J. Paige, Executive Director of Youth Guidance DC and an expert in youth workforce development. Speaking from the 2024 Youth Symposium in Phoenix, B.J. shares his personal journey from being a "hard to serve youth" to becoming a leader in workforce development. He discusses the critical importance of apprenticeship programs for young pe...

Tune in to episode two of Workforce on the Mic for a conversation with Kaitlyn Jackson, Policy Associate at Cornell University's Yang Tan Institute on Employment and Disability, about disability employment policies and practices. Kate discusses workforce development programs, systemic changes, and how to achieve access to good jobs for all. You'll also hear about initiatives like Project SEARCH an...

Are you a workforce development professional? The answer might surprise you. In this inaugural episode of Workforce on the Mic, presented by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), host Alexis Franks explores the diverse and often unexpected roles that contribute to workforce development. Join us as we speak with Jeanette Jones from the Greater Memphis Chamber and...