E145: Advocating for Your Future Self: Sponsorship Part One
Release Date: 10/22/2024
The Dignity of Work
In this episode, Cami Eakins and Lisa Grund explore the power of gratitude—how it shapes leadership, strengthens community, and helps us stay grounded in an abundance mindset even during challenging times. Through the lens of Career Path Services’ 25 Days of Gratitude campaign, they reflect on the partners, staff, and supporters who make hope tangible every day, and why gratitude is far more than a seasonal theme. It’s a year-round practice that keeps us connected to our purpose, open to possibility, and mindful of the people who walk alongside us in this work. Tune in for a conversation...
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Welcome to the final installment of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Tony Parks, Program Manager at WorkSource Spokane/Career Path Services, whose story of transformation reminds us of the power of saying “why not.” After fifteen years in corporate America, Tony found himself searching for meaning, connection, and a way to give back. Through unexpected turns—volunteering, teaching CPR, and even hosting trivia nights—he discovered his calling in workforce development. Tony shares how embracing openness,...
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Welcome to another installment of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Mariia Yanchak, a Career Path Services team member whose journey from Ukraine to the United States reveals the power of resilience and belonging. Mariia shares how arriving during a time of displacement led her to discover Career Path Services, turning what felt like a miracle job opportunity into a calling to serve others. With lived experience as an immigrant and a background supporting refugees, she brings deep empathy to her work—helping clients...
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Welcome to another installment of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Liza Neal and Crystal Bright, two inspiring Career Path Services team members whose journeys reveal the many ways life experience can shape a commitment to workforce development. Liza shares her candid story of navigating a patchwork of jobs, learning to target resumes, and ultimately finding stability and meaning in coaching job seekers. Crystal reflects on a childhood guided by her single father’s lessons in justice and compassion, discovering...
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Welcome to another installment of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Karel M. Cleveland, Training and Curriculum Coordinator for WorkSource Seattle King County. Karel reflects on her journey from teaching in the Philippines to navigating career transitions, immigration challenges, and ultimately finding purpose in workforce development. Through her story, she reveals the resilience, values, and dedication that guide her work today—underscoring how personal experiences can shape a powerful commitment to training,...
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Welcome to Part 3 of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Sara Sheldon, Program Manager at Career Path Services, and Harpreet Prajapati, Director of Operations at Career Path Services. Their stories highlight dedication, innovation, and the drive to create meaningful impact in their work and communities. Through candid conversation, Sara and Harpreet share how their professional journeys have been shaped by values of service, resilience, and leadership. Their reflections offer a deeper understanding of how...
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Welcome to Part 2 of Your Path. Your Purpose., a special mini-series from The Dignity of Work podcast. In this episode, we hear from Beckie Sommerville and Jessica Brasher; two Career Path Services team members whose stories reflect resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to purpose-driven work. Through honest conversation, Beckie and Jessica share how their personal experiences have shaped the way they lead, support others, and show up every day with heart. This episode continues our journey into the lived experiences that define the culture and mission of Career Path...
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In this special kickoff episode of The Dignity of Work series, “Your Path, Your Purpose,” we are joined by Career Path Services CEO Cami Eakins for a deeply personal conversation about purpose, leadership, and the stories that shape who we are. Cami reflects on her own journey from single motherhood and ministry work to leading a workforce organization grounded in dignity, and invites listeners to reconnect with the “why” behind their work. This episode sets the stage for a series filled with honest, heart-centered stories from across Career Path Services, offering encouragement for...
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In this final episode of our Beyond the Paycheck series, we dive into the financial basics that often get overlooked but are essential for building long-term stability and peace of mind. Joined by Richard Stirgus, Vice President of Community Relations at TAPCO Credit Union, we explore how to create sustainable budgeting habits, navigate the evolving world of digital banking, and choose the right financial tools without falling into hidden fee traps. Richard also breaks down credit fundamentals, from understanding APR to building a strong credit score, and offers practical tips for staying...
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In this episode of our Beyond the Paycheck series, we hear directly from Cierra Monsees, whose story inspired the entire project. Cierra reflects on the financial challenges and lessons she encountered after landing her first full-time job—including navigating benefits, setting up retirement contributions, building credit, and buying her first home at 23. Listeners will gain insight into the real-life decisions facing young professionals, the importance of mentorship, and the value of long-term thinking when it comes to money.
info_outlineThis episode is part of the series "Advocating for Your Future Self" and explores the importance of sponsorship in career development. Host Doug Foresta and Lisa Grund (Organizational Development Partner for Career Path Services) discuss how sponsors actively create opportunities and advocate for individuals in rooms where they're not present. The episode breaks down how sponsorship emerged as a vital tool for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations, going beyond the common advice that "good work speaks for itself." Discover insights on identifying potential sponsors and how to approach them authentically.