E07: Workforce Legacies in Action: Part One
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
Release Date: 03/26/2025
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.
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E01: Are You a Workforce Development Professional? Unconventional Paths and Hidden Connections
Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP
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 Representative Napoleon Bracy from Alabama to uncover how professionals in economic development, education, and government play crucial roles in shaping our workforce landscape. From innovative...
info_outlineIn 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, you'll appreciate his practical advice on building meaningful business relationships and finding fulfillment in this dynamic and rewarding field.