E05: From the Barbershop to the Boardroom: Innovative Approaches to Community Impact
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
Release Date: 01/23/2025
E11: Inside NAWDP: Diversity, Growth, and the Future of Workforce Development
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 growth that preserves quality and connection, and why staying “uncomfortable” is essential for driving real change. She also offers powerful advice on building your professional toolbox,...
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E10: One-Stop, Many Services: How AJCs Support Job Seekers and Employers
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 One-Stop Operators are essential to making the system work. From supporting individuals with training, employment, and wraparound services, to coordinating partner agencies and engaging...
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E09: The Power of Local: NYC’s Blueprint for Workforce Advocacy
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 workforce professionals today. You’ll hear how organizations can reduce barriers, align community resources, and elevate job seekers—especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods—into...
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E08: Workforce Legacies pt 2: Bob Knight on Workforce Innovation
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 evolution of workforce development, the pivotal role of private industry councils, and the enduring value of innovation, sector strategies, and local impact. With insights on AI, funding sustainability,...
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E07: Workforce Legacies in Action: Part One
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 traditional career frameworks and advocates for a strength-based "discovery" approach that uncovers hidden talents in job seekers. Whether you're new to workforce development or a seasoned professional,...
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E06: Mentorship That Matters: Building Youth Career Confidence
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 their career choices. Dr. Brewster reveals how his path from music teacher to workforce development leader shaped his approach to mentoring. You'll also discover the importance of early work...
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E05: From the Barbershop to the Boardroom: Innovative Approaches to Community Impact
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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, who combines barbering with career coaching to help individuals discover their purpose and build confidence. These visionaries share how they identified community needs, developed creative solutions,...
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E04: A Champion for Youth: NFL Legend Darrell Green's Journey to Workforce Development
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 his own foundation to working with ex-offenders through his company, Trusted Solutions Group. Tune in as Darrell reveals how his personal experiences shaped his dedication to youth empowerment,...
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E03: Building New Paths: Alternative Routes to Youth Success
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 people who may not choose traditional college paths, drawing from his experience with the Baltimore DC Building Trades Council. The conversation highlights innovative solutions for youth workforce...
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E02: Good Jobs for All: Championing Disability Inclusion
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 and insights on creating inclusive workplaces and promoting opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the workforce.
info_outlineDiscover 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, who combines barbering with career coaching to help individuals discover their purpose and build confidence. These visionaries share how they identified community needs, developed creative solutions, and are making lasting impacts through their unique approaches to personal and professional development.