Workforce Skills with John Morris

In this powerful 75th episode, John Morris reflects on a week full of progress, transformation, and positive energy. From hiring three new team members out of the New Freedom vocational program to watching a former student become a licensed painting contractor, John shares the emotional highs and valuable lessons that come with helping others level up in life. He dives into what it really means to...

In Episode 74, John Morse shares powerful stories from inside the New Freedom vocational program—stories of transformation, second chances, and what it really means to start over. From overcoming addiction and reconnecting with family to learning basic life skills like budgeting and hygiene, this episode highlights the incredible growth of men and women rebuilding their lives after incarceration o...

In Episode 73, John Morse tackles a topic many professionals face but few address: getting too comfortable on the job. John shares real-world experiences from the field and the office, including what happens when communication breaks down, when employees coast instead of grind, and how being “too relaxed” can cost you your job. He reminds us that growth takes grit, and success belongs to those who...

In this powerful episode, John Morris sits down with Justin, the Vocational Director at New Freedom, to dive deep into one of the most impactful workforce reentry programs in the nation. They discuss the origins of the partnership between PHP Commercial Painting and New Freedom, how vocational training is helping formerly incarcerated men and women rebuild their lives, and the importance of blendi...

In this powerful and transparent episode, John Morris opens up about one of the most stressful weeks he’s had in a long time. From managing job sites and employee paychecks to handling complex billing systems and running life skills classes, John lays out the pressure that comes with being a leader. He shares his personal journey of overcoming health issues, embracing self-care, and the importance...

In this powerful 70th episode, John Morris welcomes back Fred Santor — one year after his first appearance on Episode 5. Fred opens up about the incredible changes in his life over the past year: living in his own apartment, paying bills, becoming warehouse manager, and hitting nearly three years sober. Together, John and Fred discuss the struggles and victories of sobriety, what accountability re...

In this episode, John Morris shares a raw and honest look into the challenges of leading a crew through Arizona’s brutal summer heat. From making sure employees stay hydrated to confronting issues of pride, accountability, and entitlement, John talks about what it takes to be a reliable worker and a better leader. He explores why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and why true growth c...

After two weeks away, John returns to a stormy Monday in Phoenix with a full plate and fresh perspective. In this episode, he reflects on the power of stepping back to reset, the challenges of re-entry, and how time away can fuel growth for both leaders and teams. John shares his thoughts on building a sustainable business, mentoring the next generation, and why investing in yourself always pays o...

In Episode 67, John Morris delivers one of his most powerful and unfiltered messages yet. It’s time to stop blaming others, stop making excuses, and start taking control of your life. Whether it’s your job, your finances, or your future—you are the one responsible for making it better. John shares raw stories from his team, the importance of accountability, and how to unlock your potential by show...

As John prepares for a long-overdue vacation, he reflects on the struggle to stay focused while balancing work and life responsibilities. In this episode, John talks about the chaos that builds before time off, how to stay present despite distractions, and why strong personal and professional relationships are essential. Whether you’re planning time away or navigating workplace dynamics, this epis...

In Episode 65, John Morris shares an emotional and urgent update from Phoenix, AZ. After an unexpected resignation shakes up his business days before a long-awaited vacation, John doubles down on what truly matters—helping men and women re-entering society through vocational training and second chances. From personal illness to staffing crises to systemic issues in workforce development programs,...

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , John goes off-script and speaks from the heart about what it really takes to lead — not just show up. He talks about dealing with unexpected challenges like bad weather, the importance of preparing ahead, and why leadership starts with attitude, not just skill. Whether you’re a superintendent, project manager, or just entering the trades, this...

In Episode 63 of Workforce Skills , John Morris dives into the basics that separate success from stagnation: showing up on time, planning ahead, and taking responsibility. From life skills classes to in-the-field accountability, John shares how small habits—like clocking in and out—create big momentum. He reflects on his company’s growth, how structure builds freedom, and why second chances aren’t...

In this episode of Workforce Skills , John Morris delivers a powerful message for business owners and leaders: your employees are your number one customer. From offering a bottle of water on a hot day to helping team members set personal and professional goals, John shares real stories and actionable insights on how showing appreciation leads to better performance, loyalty, and long-term business...

In this episode of the Workforce Skills Podcast, John Morris welcomes Sean Sciglio from Globe Life to talk about an innovative benefits program that helps companies attract and retain employees—at zero cost to the business. Sean explains how Globe Life’s Worksite Advantage Program delivers value-driven life, accident, and critical illness coverage tailored to each employee’s needs. From personal s...

In Episode 60, John Morris delivers a powerful message about accountability, work ethic, and the toxic mindset that’s holding too many people back. From viral TikToks to real-world conversations with employees, John tackles the excuses, the negativity, and the entitlement he sees too often in the workplace. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone coasting through their job, blaming others, or re...

In Episode 59 of Workforce Skills, John Morris dives into a topic that hits close to home: following directions. From managing painting crews to dealing with over-involved clients, John shares real-world experiences that highlight the importance of respecting structure, processes, and expertise on the job site. He explains why successful businesses are built on clear expectations, mutual respect,...

In this deeply personal episode, John Morris opens up about the inspiration behind his first book, Ten Minutes Early . What began as a podcast about vocational programs and second chances has now grown into a story of resilience, discipline, and the drive to succeed. John shares the struggles he faced while writing, why he shifted focus away from his past, and how being “ten minutes early” became...

John Morris welcomes Julie Fox and Tyler Brantley from Mindvalley Behavioral Health to discuss how workforce training and life skills programs are helping individuals turn their lives around. They explore the impact of real-world job preparation, breaking past limiting beliefs, and how simple lessons—like accountability and personal presentation—are leading to success stories. Listen in as they sh...

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , we dive into the essential role of mentorship, leadership, and personal growth in the workplace. John shares his experiences guiding employees, overcoming challenges, and rewiring the mindset for success. From adapting to changing work conditions to mentoring individuals seeking a second chance, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on...

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , John shares a powerful personal story about perseverance, pushing back against adversity, and proving to himself that he can go further than he thought possible. He discusses the importance of resilience in both personal and professional life, the defining moments that shape our journeys, and how we unknowingly build our personal and business...

In this episode of Workforce Skills Podcast , John Morris sits down with Justin Miller, a former student of the vocational program at New Freedom, who has completely turned his life around. From struggling with addiction and incarceration to building his own successful pool service business, Justin shares his inspiring journey of resilience, goal setting, and personal transformation. He opens up a...

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , we dive into the impact of outside influences on your career decisions. John shares real-life stories from his company, illustrating how advice from well-meaning family and friends can sometimes derail professional growth. He discusses the importance of filtering advice, staying focused on logic over emotion, and seeking guidance from those wi...

When life and business throw unexpected challenges your way, how do you stay in control? In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , John opens up about the struggles he’s facing, the pressure of running a business, and the mindset needed to push forward. He discusses how to control chaos, make logical decisions instead of emotional ones, and embrace failure as a tool for growth. Whethe...

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris , we tackle the reality of dealing with pressure, adapting when plans fall apart, and pushing through challenges in the workplace. John shares real-world experiences about navigating unexpected obstacles, maintaining composure, and developing a mindset that thrives under pressure. From job site frustrations to leadership growth, this episode is...