What could happen if we could take our workforce to new heights? Workforce on the Mic presented by NAWDP brings you inspirational stories, innovative solutions, and expert insights that are shaping the future of the workforce. Tune in for dynamic conversations that motivate and transform the workforce development community. To learn more, visit: https://www.nawdp.org/
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Nawdp Podcasts

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E13: Celebrating Workforce Development Month: Changing Lives with Wayne Williams
28:13
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28:13In this inspiring episode of Workforce on the Mic, Wayne Williams shares how workforce development can transform not just careers but entire communities. From his early days in direct care to leadership roles connecting job seekers, employers, and resources, Wayne highlights the power of human connection, confidence building, and cross-sector colla…
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E12: Cultivating Leaders: Lessons from the NAWDP Leadership Academy
27:34
27:34
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27:34Discover how the NAWDP Leadership Academy is transforming workforce development by equipping leaders with the skills to master themselves, build strong relationships, and turn vision into action. In this episode, you will explore how the Academy blends practical learning with collaborative activities to create meaningful change in communities. You …
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E11: Inside NAWDP: Diversity, Growth, and the Future of Workforce Development
22:46
22:46
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22:46In 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 man…
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E10: One-Stop, Many Services: How AJCs Support Job Seekers and Employers
15:10
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15:10In 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, a…
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E09: The Power of Local: NYC’s Blueprint for Workforce Advocacy
19:01
19:01
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19:01In 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 loo…
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E08: Workforce Legacies pt 2: Bob Knight on Workforce Innovation
24:30
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24:30In 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.…
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E07: Workforce Legacies in Action: Part One
32:14
32:14
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32:14In 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…
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E66: Leading Through Uncertainty: Workforce Wisdom with Manuel Ugues
14:33
14:33
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14:33In this episode Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for Serco of Texas, shares valuable insights on navigating workforce development during uncertain times. Discover practical strategies for maintaining organizational stability, communicating effectively with teams, and staying focused on your mission despite external challenges. Mr. Ugues also reveals…
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E06: Mentorship That Matters: Building Youth Career Confidence
21:26
21:26
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21:26In 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, build…
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E05: From the Barbershop to the Boardroom: Innovative Approaches to Community Impact
28:56
28:56
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28:56Discover 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,…
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E04: A Champion for Youth: NFL Legend Darrell Green's Journey to Workforce Development
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12:09In 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 you…
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E03: Building New Paths: Alternative Routes to Youth Success
13:23
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13:23In 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 …
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E02: Good Jobs for All: Championing Disability Inclusion
22:26
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22:26Tune 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 …
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E01: Are You a Workforce Development Professional? Unconventional Paths and Hidden Connections
22:10
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22:10Are 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 Je…
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E65: Discovering the Benefits of NAWDP Membership
21:28
21:28
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21:28Tune in for a conversation with Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, as he discusses the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) and the numerous benefits it offers to workforce professionals. In this insightful conversation, Manuel shares his experiences with NAWDP, including attending conferences, utiliz…
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E64: Navigating Workforce Trends: A Look Back and Forward at 2023
25:07
25:07
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25:07In this episode, Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, returns to the program to discuss the state of the economy and workforce trends in 2023. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities presented by low unemployment rates, highlighting how SERCO is working to bridge solutions between job seekers and employers. Mr. Ugues delves …
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E63: The Power of Mindset- Part Two: With Author, Speaker and Coach Judy Balloff
19:23
19:23
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19:23Author, speaker, and coach Judy Balloff joins the program for a two-part conversation about the power of mindset to achieve success. Judy shares her own story of needing to reinvent her career after dealing with serious health issues in her sixties. Discover the power of your thoughts when it comes to success, and principles and tips to help you na…
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E62: The Power of Mindset- Part One: With Author, Speaker and Coach Judy Balloff
20:30
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20:30Author, speaker, and coach Judy Balloff joins the program for a two-part conversation about the power of mindset to achieve success. Judy shares her own story of needing to reinvent her career after dealing with serious health issues in her sixties. Discover the power of your thoughts when it comes to success, and principles and tips to help you na…
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This episode was originally recorded for 180PODCAST, and features a conversation between Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, and Workforce180 CEO Mike Fazio. Discover tips for retention and what SERCO has done to maintain a positive culture for employees. Manuel also shares his thoughts about workforce challenges and opportunities f…
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E60: Successfully Navigating Stress and Change
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25:19
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25:19Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, joins the program to discuss how to thrive during times of stress and uncertainty. Discover tips and strategies for focusing on what's most important, even when there are multiple competing priorities.
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In this episode, you'll hear from an expert about how to incorporate more meaning and purpose into your work, and how to incorporate your interests into any job, without having to find a different line of work.
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E58: Overcoming Fears and Doubts as a Job Seeker
29:51
29:51
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29:51In this episode, you'll hear about how to increase your confidence as a job seeker, and how to overcome fears and doubts along the way!
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E57: Making Resolutions in a Post-Pandemic World
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22:01
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22:01In this episode, you'll hear from a psychology professor about how to make and keep resolutions in a post-pandemic world.
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E56: Just 2 Choices- Career Lessons from an Airline Pilot
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36:56In this episode, you'll hear from former airline pilot Rico Racosky about a powerful but simple process to make better life choices. Discover how to get unstuck and why "trying harder" often doesn't lead to more success.
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E55: The Employability Podcast- A Look Back and a Look Forward
18:35
18:35
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18:35Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, joins the program to discuss the evolution of the Employability Podcast, the benefits that podcasting provides for his organization, and shares his vision for the future of the podcast.
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Mustafa Ammar, Founder and CEO of The Passion MBA, joins the program to explain what "Career PTSD" is, the root causes of it, and share 5 tips for overcoming Career PTSD.
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E53: Inspiring and Building Better LIves and Communities: With Juan Solis
35:52
35:52
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35:52Juan Solis, Community Development Manager at Truist, joins the program to discuss his career journey and the various workforce challenges facing the San Antonio area. Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic created a new paradigm of thinking and Mr. Solis' forecast and vision for the next 10 years.
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In the second part of this two-part episode, author and career coach Beverly Williams shares tips for anyone thinking about looking for a new job during the Great Resignation, and what to consider before leaving a current job or career.
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In part one of this two-part episode, author and career coach Beverly Williams joins the program to share tips about what job seekers need to think about during their job search.
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E50: From Great Resignation to Great Employee Appreciation
28:42
28:42
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28:42There's been a lot of talk about the Great Resignation, but what can organizations do to retain their talent? Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, joins the program to discuss tips for how organizations can demonstrate appreciation for their employees and set themselves up to have the best chance to retain their workers.…
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Angela Lussier, CEO and Founder of Speaker Sisterhood, returns to the program to discuss how to communicate your value to others, whether that's in a networking meet, job fair, interview, etc. Discover tips for how to speak effectively and ensure that your message is heard.
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Angela Lussier, CEO and Founder of Speaker Sisterhood, joins the program to discuss how to overcome the fear of speaking and shares tips for calming yourself down whether you are speaking in-person or virtually.
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E47: Dealing with Grief and Uncertainty During a Pandemic- Part 2
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14:30In this 2-part episode, psychologist Dr. Patti Ashley returns to the program to discuss how to take care of yourself during a pandemic and how to deal with the uncertainty that comes with living in the "new normal." To learn more about Dr. Ashley, visit: https://pattiashley.com/
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E46: Dealing with Grief and Uncertainty During a Pandemic- Part 1
12:18
12:18
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12:18In this 2-part episode, psychologist Dr. Patti Ashley returns to the program to discuss how to take care of yourself during a pandemic and how to deal with the uncertainty that comes with living in the "new normal." To learn more about Dr. Ashley, visit: https://pattiashley.com/
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In this episode you'll hear from an expert about how to incorporate more meaning and purpose into your work, and how to incorporate your interests into any job, without having to find a different line of work.
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E44: How to Build Confidence as a Job Seeker
30:02
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30:02Raj Girn, Founder and CEO of the Open Chest Confidence Academy, joins the program to discuss her own journey of becoming more confident and shares tips for how to increase your confidence. Discover how to find courage in the face of uncertainty, and what to consider when starting a new job or career.…
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Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas to share his top 5 lessons from Q1 of 2021. Discover what this year has taught us about setting goals and finding success, and some thoughts about what it will take to thrive in 2021 and beyond.
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E42: Diversity Equity and Inclusion for Organizations- Part Two
14:17
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14:17DEI consultant Kay Fabella joins the program for a 2-part conversation about how organizations can create a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. To learn more about Kay, visit https://kayfabella.com/
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E41: Diversity Equity and Inclusion for Organizations- Part One
14:46
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14:46DEI consultant Kay Fabella joins the program for a 2-part conversation about how organizations can create a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. To learn more about Kay, visit https://kayfabella.com/
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Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, returns to the program to discuss recruitment and retention tips in a post-pandemic world. Discover what employees are most looking for in this time of remote work, and how to use technology to enhance recruitment and retention efforts.
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Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, returns to the program to discuss how to handle distractions, and some of the unique distractions that have come up as many of us work in remote locations. Discover how to stay focused, grounded and productive.
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E38: Making a Career Change in 2021- Part Two
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22:30In part two of this two-part episode, Geraldine Hogan, author of Career Moves for Teachers and Other Professionals: Strategies for a Successful Job Change, joins the program to reveal how to have a successful job change. Discover the mindset and actions that are needed for success.
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E37: Making a Career Change in 2021- Part One
21:02
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21:02In part one of this two-part episode, Geraldine Hogan, author of Career Moves for Teachers and Other Professionals: Strategies for a Successful Job Change, joins the program to reveal how to have a successful job change. Discover the mindset and actions that are needed for success.
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E36: Making Resolutions in a Post-Pandemic World
22:05
22:05
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22:05Dr. Frank Farley, Professor of Psychology at Temple University and previous president of the American Psychological Association (APA), joins the program to discuss how and why to make resolutions in an uncertain world.
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E35: Dealing with Grief During a Pandemic
21:14
21:14
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21:14In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Patti Ashley, a psychologist who specializes in helping people recover from grief and loss. Discover how to bounce back from the grief of a job loss, and the multiple losses that everyone is feeling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Ashley also reveals how grief effects the brain and tips for self-care.…
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E34: 2020 and Beyond- Looking Back and Moving Forward
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25:05Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for Serco of Texas, joins the program to share reflections about 2020, and the change of mindset that's been required, as well as the expanding circle of consideration. He also shares his thoughts about what we need to keep in mind moving forward for 2021.
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E33: Trauma is Real- Meeting Challenges and Creating Positive Change
20:34
20:34
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20:34Venice Garner-Moore and Vernon Moore, co-owners of Embrace Your Difference, join the program to discuss how they help people heal from trauma, and the unique challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has created. Discover how to be resilient and create positive personal and social change.
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E32: The Intersection of Race, Racism, and Workforce Development
20:28
20:28
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20:28In this episode, you'll hear from Clair Minson from New Orleans Business Alliance, as she is interviewed by WORKFORCE180 CEO Mike Fazio for a conversation about equity and equality in workforce development.
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Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for SERCO of Texas, joins the program to discuss how job seekers and businesses can thrive even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover what job seekers need to think about when it comes to reskilling and upskilling and the "silver lining" to the pandemic.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many employees to work virtually. In this episode, you'll hear from Manuel Ugues, Regional Director for Serco of Texas, as he discusses tips for successfully working from home.
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