WORKFORCEPODS

As the year comes to a close, the holiday season brings both celebration and strain into the workplace. In this episode, we explore how leaders can keep employees engaged, productive, and supported during one of the most challenging times of the year. From setting clear priorities and building flexible structures to recognizing contributions and addressing burnout, this conversation offers actiona...

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Anthony, Workforce Development Specialist at Bechtel, one of the world's largest and most significant engineering, construction, and project management firms. Patrick shares how Bechtel is building the future through its Department of Labor (DOL) registered apprenticeship programs, which combine classroom learning with hands-on field experience, use NCCER...

Join us as we talk to Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of the Midwest Region for Western Governors University. WGU is an online school with nearly 6,000 active students in Illinois and more than 12,000 graduates in the state. The conversation addresses head on the challenge of student debt and aligning education to careers that will provide a good wage and path forward.   The goal is to ob...

In today's episode, discover why the old debate of skills versus degrees matters more than ever in shaping your career and the workforce of tomorrow. You'll learn how employers are rethinking traditional requirements, why soft skills like communication and problem-solving are becoming essential, and how alternative pathways such as certifications and micro-credentials can open doors to meaningful...

On this episode we're joined by Augie Ghilarducci, Creator and Founder of 2nd Opportunity—a program designed to assist returning citizens in rebounding from major setbacks and starting down a positive path. In this conversation, we learn about Augie's story, the moments that inspired him to give back to those that need support the most, and how his program is changing lives across the country.

Discover how the Fresh Produce & Floral Council (FPFC) connects, educates, and advocates for the vibrant produce and floral industries while hosting lively events that bring the community together. This episode highlights upcoming opportunities like the pickleball tournament benefiting the City of Hope, the regional roundtables across the Pacific Northwest, Northern and Central California, and Sou...

In this episode, we explore what it really means to hear "no" in your job search—and how to turn that rejection into redirection. You'll learn why job rejections can feel so personal, discover strategies for responding with professionalism and grace, and gain practical tools to stay motivated when setbacks start to add up. From refining your resume to reframing your mindset, this conversation offe...

In this episode, you'll hear how a powerful reentry initiative is transforming lives by preparing incarcerated individuals for meaningful employment before their release. Discover how collaborative efforts across regional, state, and federal partners are breaking down barriers to reintegration and creating real opportunities for second chance employment. You'll learn how job training, personal dev...

In celebration of 'Learning at Work Week,' Host Wayne Williams is joined by Kevin Kenny, Founder and Co-CEO of  Level All , to share news regarding our exciting new partnership, how Level All is leveling up the workforce, and how their approach of "knowledge – decision – action" is changing the way learners plan for college and careers.

What happens when a university research center and a workforce board team up for over a decade? This episode shares lessons from a long-standing partnership that has turned labor market data into strategic advantage. You'll learn how collaboration led to skills gap studies, sector-based lattices, and region-specific tools that have supported economic development at every level.

 In this episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Rich Simmerman, co-founder of Cantaloupe AI, at the JFF Horizons Summit in New Orleans to tackle a pressing challenge in the hospitality industry: outdated, resume-driven hiring that fails both employers and job seekers. Drawing from Rich's own journey—from managing a coffee shop in Carrollton to pioneering voice interview technology—Cantaloup...

In this episode, you'll learn how to take control of your finances after a job loss with practical tools and a grounded mindset. Discover how to assess your current income and expenses, create an essentials-only budget, and identify areas to cut back without losing your stability. You'll hear about helpful budgeting apps, local support resources, and how to make smart decisions around emergency sa...

In this episode we sit down with Kraig Kistinger, Director of Human Resources at National Tube Supply Co., to explore what it takes to build and sustain a thriving workforce in today's competitive market. Kraig shares how National Tube Supply invests in people through robust training, innovative tools like VR, and a culture that values authenticity and growth. We discuss practical strategies for r...

 Kelly Fair, Founder and Executive Director of Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program, joins the program to discuss her organization's mission to help girls become effective communicators at home, school, and in the workplace. She shares the origins of Polished Pebbles, which began with monthly Saturday sessions and has grown to serve over 50 communities in schools each year. The conversation ex...

Tune in for a conversation with Brinkley Ruffin, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Universal Parks & Resorts.  Brinkley discusses his 20-year career in human resources, his transition from political science to HR, and his decade at Universal. He also shares insights on diverse career opportunities within the theme park industry and highlights the upcoming Epic Universe theme park, set to ope...

Tune in to hear from organizational researcher and professor, Anna Valiavska , in the introductory episode of "Good at Work: The Career Playbook for Leaders and Teams." Drawing from Anna's expertise as both a corporate innovation researcher and university professor, this comprehensive guide explores the four crucial phases of organizational socialization - from anticipating your next career move t...

Ready for a fresh take on workplace culture? Join host John Spencer as he sits down with Erika Montgomery, CEO-President of Three Girls Media, Inc., for an enlightening conversation about transforming traditional work environments. From her fascinating journey as a San Francisco morning show host to becoming an award-winning CEO, Erika shares practical insights on creating a thriving virtual workp...

In this episode, host Patrick Hall speaks with Will County Workforce Services staff including John Hall (Business Services and Special Projects Supervisor), Andrew Pajak (Career Planner), Michelle Stiff (Director), and Pam Rodriguez (Special Projects Manager) about Pathways to Professions (P2P), an innovative career exposition now in its third year. Taking place on March 11, 2025, at the Romeovill...

Tune in as we explore SkillUp Ventura County, an innovative program offering residents free online skills training and certification opportunities. In this episode, Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, leads a discussion with key partners. Joining her are the team from Managed Career Solutions (MCS) and special guest Kerry Twomey from Metrix Learn...

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...

In this episode, Chicago's Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood joins host and CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership George Wright to discuss Chicago's innovative approach to violence reduction and its intersection with workforce development. The deputy mayor outlines his office's strategy of empowering neighborhoods to participate in sharing their priorities and thoughts in de...

 In this episode of the Will Works podcast, host speaks with Lauren Kmetz-Weisman, JJC manager of the Clean Jobs Initiative (CEJA). Lauren shares information about the state-funded program, which aims to develop Illinois' clean energy workforce through training and job placement. The discussion covers CEJA's focus on residential energy audits and electric vehicle technology, the program structure,...

From KRA's the Hub: In this fifth episode of a special series, recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Rick Record, an experienced workforce development consultant whose journey began as a youth program participant. Rick shares his remarkable career progression from working in retail management to overseeing statewide programs for C...

In this episode, you'll discover why upskilling has become essential in today's rapidly changing workplace. Host Matt Myers shares insights from the World Economic Forum about how half of all employees will need significant reskilling in the coming years, and introduces you to several free training programs offered by the state of Ohio. You'll learn how these opportunities can help you stay compet...

From the Working Together Podcast: In this episode of Follow the Leader, we welcome special guest Dr. Cira Burke, Director of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program at the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services. Dr. Burke discusses her work helping families in need gain access to services, job training, education, and more to achieve self-sufficiency. She shares insig...