Best Workforcedevelopment Podcasts (2024)

1
Tackling Systemic Racism in Education Head-On With Alysia Bell, President of UNITE-LA Episode 132 37:36

4h ago37:36

37:36

Connecting education and industry is vital for preparing students for real-world careers. Organizations such as UNITE LA bridge school-to-career pathways, focusing on equitable transitions for marginalized communities. Central to this is a strong commitment to equity and anti-racism, integrating these values into daily practices. Alysia Bell, Presi…

1
The Winning Edge: Multidisciplinary Skills for Tomorrow’s Workforce With Matthew Cacciato, President & CEO, Los Angeles Sports Council Episode 131 28:27

13d ago28:27

28:27

The sports industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce, offering a range of opportunities for individuals with diverse skills. Matt Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council, works to bridge the gap between sports and business in Southern California. With over 3,500 colleges featuring sports business curricula, there’s …

1
Building LA’s Future: Small Businesses, Global Events, & Workforce Evolution with Stephen Cheung, CEO & President of LAEDC & President of WTCLA Episode 130 38:16

15d ago38:16

38:16

Los Angeles thrives on unity, innovation, and collaboration for economic growth. In this episode, we explore the intersection of major global events and local economic growth with returning guest Stephen Cheung, President of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), and the World Trade Center Los Angeles (WTCLA). As LA prepar…

1
E06: Workforce Solutions from the Border: El Paso's Workforce Innovation Playbook 37:14

22d ago37:14

37:14

In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, is joined by Leila Melendez, CEO of Workforce Solutions Borderplex, in El Paso, Texas. Leila shares her organization's innovative approach to adapting national workforce mandates to meet local needs in the diverse Borderplex region. She discusses creative initiatives like NextForce, HerFo…

1
Why Strategic Storytelling Is the New Corporate Currency with Aleya Harris, Speaker, Strategic Storytelling Consultant, Bestselling Author Episode 129 35:18

1M ago35:18

35:18

In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, organizations strive to stand out and retain top talent. One powerful way to achieve this is through storytelling. By crafting narratives that resonate with employees, leaders can foster a sense of belonging, purpose, and motivation within their teams. Aleya Harris, founder and CEO of The Ev…

1
Redefining Higher Education: Making Knowledge Accessible to Everyone with Shai Reshef, President of University of the People Episode 128 30:23

2M ago30:23

30:23

Higher education is a gateway to a brighter future, offering individuals the opportunity to expand their knowledge, skills, and career prospects. However, access to higher education has often been limited by factors such as cost, location, and time constraints. Shai Reshef, President of University of the People, believes education is a right, not a…

1
Unlocking Community Power: How Women’s Business Centers Create Thriving Entrepreneurs with Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI & CA WBC Network Chair Episode 127 35:20

2M ago35:20

35:20

How do we dismantle the entrenched systemic barriers that hold back so many in the business world? The answer lies in access to capital, information, and networking. Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI, points out that women, in particular, encounter systemic challenges, like unequal access to funding and exclusion from critical networks, makin…

1
The Future is Working: Addressing The Skills Gap in an Evolving Workforce with Shelley Hoss, Chief Executive Officer at Orange County Community Foundation Episode 126 43:20

2M ago43:20

43:20

Workforce development initiatives are crucial in preparing individuals for the ever-evolving job market. As industries change and technology advances, both employees and employers need to adapt to these shifts. But where does one start? How can new workers ensure that they’re equipped to thrive in the future workforce? Since May 2000, Shelley Hoss …

1
E05: Entrepreneurial Approaches for Workforce Boards: Strategies from South Central PA Works 38:31

3M ago38:31

38:31

In this episode, CEO of South Central PA Works, Jesse McCree, joins us for an illuminating discussion on workforce development innovation. Leading an influential board that spans eight counties in central PA, Jesse offers insights from his nearly eight-year tenure. The conversation delves into South Central PA Works' pioneering strategies, includin…

1
Women’s Business Centers: The Silent Giants of Entrepreneurial Advocacy with Claudia Viek, Founder & Catalyst of the Invest in Women Entrepreneurship Initiative Episode 125 38:12

3M ago38:12

38:12

Women’s Business Centers are a hidden gem for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering invaluable support in the complex world of starting and growing a business. These centers, often overlooked, provide essential support for women looking to start and grow their own businesses. Claudia Viek, a trailblazer in the field and the Founder and Catalyst of the I…

1
E04: Workforce Solutions for the Future: Technology, Partnerships, and Community Impact 44:20

3M ago44:20

44:20

In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, is joined by President and CEO of CareerSource Central Florida, Pam Nabors. Pam shares insights on leading a large workforce board and preparing for the future of workforce development and discusses her organization's role in serving a diverse five-county region surrounding Orlando, inclu…

1
The Need for Reform: Breaking Down the School-to-Prison Pipeline with Quan Huynh, Executive Director at Southern California at Defy Ventures Episode 124 36:09

3M ago36:09

36:09

The school-to-prison pipeline is a complex and damaging system that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly people of color. This pipeline refers to the policies and practices that push students out of school and into the criminal justice system, creating long-term impacts on individuals and communities. Quan Huynh, Execut…

1
E03: Workforce Innovation in Action: Spotlight on WorkSource Montgomery, Inc. 36:48

4M ago36:48

36:48

Tune in for another episode of Workforce Central, as NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little speaks with Anthony Featherstone, the new Executive Director of WorkSource Montgomery, about workforce development initiatives in Montgomery County, Maryland. They discuss the county's diverse demographics, major industries, and workforce challenges. Ant…

1
How Women Entrepreneurs Can Overcome Societal Barriers with PCC Women's Business Center Interim Director, Lizzy Okoro Episode 123 30:34

4M ago30:34

30:34

Despite leading 42% of new businesses in the U.S., women are 20 times more likely to be denied traditional business loans than men, with an even larger gap for women of color. Success for women entrepreneurs hinges on a supportive ecosystem, which Women's Business Centers foster by addressing funding disparities and resource limitations. Inspired b…

1
Empowerment in Action: Pasadena City College's New Initiative for Women in Business Episode 122 22:50

4M ago22:50

22:50

Empowerment is the catalyst for change–sparking innovation, growth, and community transformation. Pasadena City College is excited to announce the Women's Business Center, a new initiative designed to foster innovation and provide tailored support to women entrepreneurs in the San Gabriel Valley. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic an…

1
E02: Overcoming Barriers and Defining Workforce Development: Insights from Coconino County 36:02

5M ago36:02

36:02

In this episode of Workforce Central, Brad Turner-Little, President and CEO of NAWB, is joined by Billy Francis, Executive Director of the Coconino County Workforce Development Board in Flagstaff, Arizona. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of workforce development in rural Coconino County, which has a large landmass and significa…

1
How To Overcome Student Imposter Syndrome With Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career & Completion at PCC Episode 121 35:09

5M ago35:09

35:09

Sometimes a student's own fears can hold them back from going after their dream career. The future workforce is intimidating and it’s up to educators and career centers to support and help students navigate all of their doubts. Join in as host, Salvatrice Cummo, Ed.D. welcomes Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career and Completion …

1
APPRENTICESHIPS: A Pathway To A Sustainable Future Workforce Episode 120 25:08

5M ago25:08

25:08

Why don’t we hear about more apprenticeship opportunities for students? Today we’ll discuss the development of apprenticeships and cover what goes on behind the scenes when it comes to funding, planning, executing, and regulating these programs, and why they're so hard to come by. Digging in deep we’ll cover the barriers to apprenticeships and how …

1
E01: Adapting to the Future of Work: Insights from Pikes Peak Workforce Center 30:27

6M ago30:27

30:27

Welcome back to an all-new edition of Workforce Central! In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, talks with Executive Director and CEO of Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Traci Marques. They discuss the vital role that workforce boards play in connecting businesses with job seekers and fostering economic vitality in their communiti…

1
How Partnering with Education Improves Long Lasting Employee Relationships With Donald Bradburn, Director Of HR Strategy Design, Workforce Planning & Analytics At Kaiser Permanente Episode 119 29:52

6M ago29:52

29:52

What does the new generation want out of their work environment? In order to appeal to the future workforce, we must shift and reimagine how jobs function. Donald Bradburn, the Director of HR Strategy Design, Workforce Planning and Analytics for Southern California and Hawaii Markets, at Kaiser Permanente is joining us today to cover what employers…

1
E59: Beyond WIOA: How Workforce Boards are Transforming Their Role 47:29

6M ago47:29

47:29

This episode explores the evolving role of workforce development boards in driving economic growth and community impact. Join hosts Bob Lanter and Matthew Hayes as they discuss the "Real Role of Workforce Boards" training with special guests from Solano and Madera Counties. Discover how these boards are moving beyond WIOA limitations to address bro…

1
How Educating Existing & Future Workforce On Green Technologies Can Change The World With Jaime Nack President At Three Squares Inc. Episode 118 28:13

6M ago28:13

28:13

What would a true sustainable future look like? Jaime Nack, the Founder and President of Three Squares Inc., an award winning sustainability and environmental social and corporate consulting firm is here to dive into that very question. We’ll explore the current trends within green technologies and how these trends impact the present curriculum in …

1
Becoming A Leader of Significance with Dr. Rocky Cifone, Executive Coach at The John Maxwell Team Episode 117 28:13

7M ago28:13

28:13

Everything rises and falls on leadership. But what are the mindset, intentions, and actions required to be a good leader, especially when failing up isn’t an option? Dr. Rocky Cifone, Executive Coach at The John Maxwell Team, joins us today to discuss the philosophy behind good leadership. How do we assess our failures while celebrating our success…

1
Revisiting: Why Technical Education & Post Secondary Career Programs Will Change The Future Of Work With Jennifer Zeisler Senior Program Director Of Career Readiness At ECMC Foundation Episode 116 25:00

7M ago25:00

25:00

It is time to open up and diversify the education to career pathway! By developing and embracing new forms of learning methods, we can better serve students and families in less traditional or underserved populations. Joining us today is Jennifer Zeisler, Senior Program Director of Career Readiness at ECMC Foundation, a philanthropic fundraising se…

1
E58: Harnessing AI for Workforce Development: A Conversation with Wesley Brach 44:56

8M ago44:56

44:56

Tune into another episode of CWA Today, as hosts Bob Lanter and Matthew Hayes are joined by entrepreneur and AI expert Wesley Brach to discuss the exciting world of artificial intelligence and its impact on workforce development. Wesley shares his journey into AI and explains the buzz surrounding generative AI, which is creating new content and rev…

1
Revisiting: The Key To Becoming A Lifelong Learner, With Amrit Ahluwalia Executive Director of Continuing Studies at Western University Episode 115 33:14

8M ago33:14

33:14

When was the last time you learned something new? Today I’m joined today by Amrit Ahluwalia, Executive Director of Continuing Studies at Western University. You’ll learn how support students and advocates for lifelong learning through detailed publications and access to a community of industry professionals. We’ll cover what topics have been the mo…

1
The Intersection of Education and Incarceration: Addressing the School to Prison Pipeline Episode 114 25:02

8M ago25:02

25:02

Could community college be a pattern disruptor for K-12 students primed for the prison pipeline? In this episode, host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, tackle the complex and often overlooked issue of the school-to-prison pipeline. Their co…

1
Revisiting: How To Tackle Workforce Inequity with Kome Ajise Episode 113 23:16

9M ago23:16

23:16

How can we actively work towards equalizing educational opportunities for all students? The goal of Kome Ajise, the Director at the Southern California Association of Governments, is to level the playing field for EVERYONE. Kome will share with us how SCAG is encouraging a more sustainable Southern California, and what their partnerships within the…

1
What You Need To Know about Workforce Training Episode 112 30:01

9M ago30:01

30:01

How do we help students earn more money and raise their quality of life? To start, it’s about teaching them the skills they need to increase their wages and create generational wealth for them and their families. The key is workforce training. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Les…

1
Unveiling the True Voice of the Future Workforce Episode 111 26:51

10M ago26:51

26:51

How do we start changing the conversation around the future of work so more students can get jobs? To best adjust the current landscape, we need to create more safe spaces that open up the dialogue around what organizations and students need in order to reach their goals. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at …

1
E57: Life Skills and Leadership: 2024 CWA Youth Conference Preview 29:21

10M ago29:21

29:21

This episode of CWA Today podcast previews the upcoming 2024 CWA Youth Summit conference happening February 7-8th in Long Beach, California. Host Bob Lanter interviews CWA's Matt Hidalgo about the event's "Expanding Horizons" theme focusing on providing youth career counseling, life skills training, and leadership development. The episode highlight…

1
Confronting the Uncomfortable Truth: Why Students Are Struggling to Find Work in 2024 Episode 110 29:52

10M ago29:52

29:52

How can we do a better job at providing students with opportunities that fulfill them both personally and professionally in 2024? It all begins by selecting program funding intentionally and choosing partners and projects that make a real impact on a student’s future and career path. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Dev…

1
The Number One Reason People Are Facing Homelessness Episode 109 24:44

11M ago24:44

24:44

What can we do to support the most vulnerable members in our society? In order to ensure the success of everyone, even students without a home, we must debunk the myths of what actually causes homelessness here in Los Angeles and throughout the entire world. We need to bring together the community, both employers and educators, to focus on jobs, ch…

1
E56: Turning Interviews into Offers: Creative Job Interview Strategies 54:19

11M ago54:19

54:19

In this episode, hosts Bob Lanter and Matthew Hayes interview workforce development expert Larry Robbin about best practices for job interviews and the hidden agenda employers have when hiring. They discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed hiring practices, making flexibility and profitability key employee traits. Larry explains common mis…

1
E55: Beyond Federal Funds: How Workforce Boards Diversify Resources and Maximize Impact 44:36

11M ago44:36

44:36

This special episode marks the refresh of CWA Today, and features CWA Executive Director Bob Lanter and Program Director Matthew Hayes discussing an overview of research they have conducted into the impactful work being done by the state’s 45 local workforce development boards. Discover the positive impact of boards moving beyond just operating fed…

1
The Synergy of Learning & Earning: A New Vision for Workforce Education Episode 108 1:08:23

11M ago1:08:23

1:08:23

How do we really put more students on the pathway to prosperity and success? It all begins by developing infrastructure that can bridge the gap between industry and education. Listen in as Host, Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College shares a panel recap from this year's Future Of Work Conferen…

1
E129: Meet Brad Turner-Little, CEO of NAWB 27:21

11M ago27:21

27:21

Tune in for this special episode as Mike Fazio, Co-President of Workforce180 and Metrix Learning, interviews Brad Turner-Little, the new CEO of NAWB. Brad talks about his career journey and outlines his vision for NAWB.

1
The Future of Work Conference: Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment Episode 107 16:41

12M ago16:41

16:41

How can educators join forces with employers to better shape the opportunities available for the future workforce? Tune in as Host, Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College introduces the keynote speaker from this year's Future of Work Conference as he tackles that very question. Guest speaker St…

1
Bettering Our Cities for the Future Workforce With Alfred Fraijo Jr. The Founder and Partner of the SOMOS Group Episode 106 39:56

12M ago39:56

39:56

Do you know all the ways your city’s land laws might be holding the future workforce back? To uncover a positive path towards change for you and your community, Alfred Fraijo Jr. is here, he’s the Founder and Partner of the SOMOS Group– where he provides legal advice to clients pursuing innovative urban renewal projects in the inner city and other …

1
The Power of Passion: How to Identify & Pursue Your Calling in the Future of Work with Dennis Rodriguez Director of Business Development – Western US & Design Build – Governments & Environment at Black ... 30:37

1y ago30:37

30:37

Attend the 5th annual Future Of Work Conference October 26th The path to success looks different for everyone. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College is joined by Dennis Rodriguez, Director of Business Development – Western US and Design Build – Governments & Environment at Black & Veatch …

1
Discover The Path To Success at The Future of Work Conference Episode 104 26:00

1y ago26:00

26:00

Change in our education systems can be uncomfortable but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t embrace it. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College, and Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, dive into the exciting details of the upcoming Future of Work Conference on October 26th. Where did t…

1
Creating A Collaborative Strategy For Educational Flexibility With Mayor Gordo Episode 103 23:45

1y ago23:45

23:45

How can community colleges partner with their respective cities? What new opportunities are out there, and how can we offer them to more constituents? Which incentives will help us expand job training and mental health services? Formal education is important, but it’s even more important to remember it comes in many different shapes and forms. Host…

1
Discover What A Modern Apprenticeship Program Looks Like With Kelly Mackey State Director of Strategic Partnerships for the State of California Episode 102 38:34

1y ago38:34

38:34

It’s getting harder and harder for employers to lock down good talent. This makes it more important now than ever to cultivate registered apprenticeship programs that create long lasting, and meaningful relationships with students who will eventually become incredible workers. Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at …

1
Part 2: Unpacking What It Takes To Equitably Implement AI In Education Episode 101 23:53

1y ago23:53

23:53

What is the best way for institutions to implement AI in the classroom? Hear from Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, and Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College as they dive back into artificial intelligence and break down new research on the topic. They will uncover what it means to i…

1
How To Better Support Students Where They Are With Dr. Brenda Ivelisse Vice President of Student Services at PCC Episode 100 29:54

1y ago29:54

29:54

Institutions will last long if they can find ways to adapt to students' needs, not the other way around. On both local and state levels educators can transform their services to align with student’s goals and new ideas of success. Today, our host Salvatrice Cummo, will help us learn more about the Pasadena City College campus by focusing on the dif…

1
Overcoming Student Imposter Syndrome With Jackie Javier Director of the Freeman Center for Career & Completion at PCC Episode 99 35:09

1+ y ago35:09

35:09

Sometimes a student's own fears can hold them back from going after their dream career. The future workforce is intimidating and it’s up to educators and career centers to support and help students navigate all of their doubts. Join in as host, Salvatrice Cummo, welcomes Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career and Completion at Pas…

1
How To Support Our Students’ Career Goals With Assemblymember Mike Fong Episode 98 29:46

1+ y ago29:46

29:46

What is the best way to prepare students to get high-paying jobs in today’s world? Today, Salvatrice Cummo is joined by Assemblymember Mike Fong to discuss California's higher education committee, what it does for students in the area, and how we can help students reach their goals. Together they’ll cover the programs, bills, and policies that impr…

1
The Key To A Successful Mentorship Program With Dr. Shannon LaCount Principal Product Manager at Mentor Collective Episode 97 25:54

1+ y ago25:54

25:54

Why don’t more students have mentors? It is up to colleges and institutions to create spaces where students feel heard and seen by their educators and mentors. Our host Salvatrice Cummo, is joined by Dr. Shannon LaCount, the principal product manager at Mentor Collective, to learn how they help students in higher education reach their goals through…

1
How Education Can Serve As A Tool For Liberation With Dr. Francisco Rodriguez Chancellor of Los Angeles Community College District Episode 96 36:18

1+ y ago36:18

36:18

We have a long way to go when it comes to diversifying our workforce. One of the first steps is to create a space where students can learn from and interact with professors and mentors that represent who they are and where they come from. We’re joined by Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, Chancellor of Los Angeles Community College District to discover how w…

1
Part 1: What Role Does AI Serve In The Education System Episode 95 22:58

1+ y ago22:58

22:58

Can we incorporate AI into our education system in a way that’s healthy and creates more opportunities for students? When it comes to artificial intelligence, there are a handful of ways we can offer new tools for students in the classroom. Hear from Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, and Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Wor…

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