Talent Magnet

E41: Cultivating Inclusion: Empowering Neurodiverse Talent Jul 31, 2024

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we Michelle Whitlow, Executive Director of the Lewis County Autism Coalition. Michelle discusses the organization's mission to enhance resources and opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities in Lewis County and surrounding areas. She also shares insights on the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in employment, including misconceptions about their capabilities, and highlights the coalition's efforts to promote workplace inclusion. Discover the importance of education, training, and open communication in creating an inclusive work environment

E40: Revolutionizing HR: Small Business Solutions with Insperity Jul 04, 2024

This episode of Talent Magnet features a conversation with Jessica Dunson, Business Performance Advisor at Insperity. Jessica discusses employee benefits and HR challenges for small and medium-sized businesses. She also explains how Insperity, as a Professional Employer Organization, helps businesses compete for talent with benefits packages, HR support, and risk management. This episode provides insights for business owners looking to improve HR practices and create an attractive workplace for employees.

E39: Flexibility as a Talent Magnet: Lessons from Three Girls Media's CEO Jul 01, 2024

In this episode, we are joined by Erika Taylor Montgomery, CEO and President of Three Girls Media, Inc. Erika discusses the crucial topic of work-life balance and how she has made it a cornerstone of her company's culture. She also shares her journey of founding Three Girls Media nearly 19 years ago to achieve better work-life balance, and discusses her implementation of flexible schedules and remote work policies. The conversation delves into the benefits of this approach, including increased employee satisfaction and productivity, as well as how it helps smaller companies compete for talent. Erika also offers valuable advice for organizations looking to improve work-life balance and shares creative strategies for maintaining team cohesion in a remote work environment.

E38: Making Your Business More Neurodiverse: Practical Tips for Attraction and Retention Jan 12, 2024

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug Foresta interviews Katie McMurray, founder and CEO of Sensory Tool House LLC, about the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. They discuss practical tips for attracting and retaining neurodivergent talent, like crafting inclusive job postings, allowing interview accommodations, using direct communication, and providing sensory-friendly workspaces. Katie explains how neurodiverse employees lead to increased innovation, productivity, and retention if properly supported. She emphasizes that small adjustments to company culture and communication can make work accessible for all cognitive styles. Whether you're an employer looking to widen your talent pool or an employee seeking accommodations, this episode will leave you inspired to create a more neuroinclusive work environment.

E37: From "Sick on Sunday" to Excited for Monday: Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture Oct 25, 2023

This episode features a discussion with Brittinay Lenhart, founder of Work Culture Consultant LLC, about the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and connectedness in building a positive organizational culture. Brittinay provides practical advice for business leaders on fostering morale, productivity, and retention through prioritizing employees' well-being. Tune in to gain actionable strategies for attracting top talent by developing a supportive workplace culture.

E36: Talent Magnet Learns About Digital Literacy May 12, 2023

Welcome to Talent Magnet, where we explore the latest trends and insights in talent development. In this episode, we're joined by Marianne Judd, Member Investment Project Coordinator, to discuss an important topic: Digital Literacy. Digital equity and literacy are more critical than ever in today's technology-driven world. So, what exactly do these terms mean? Digital equity refers to the availability of digital tools, resources, and access to technology to all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or location. It's about ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in the digital world. Digital literacy, on the other hand, is the ability to effectively use digital tools and technology to communicate, create, and collaborate. It's not just about knowing how to use a computer or a smartphone; it's about understanding how to navigate and make sense of the vast amount of information available online. In our conversation with Marianne Judd, she shares her insights on the importance of digital literacy and how it impacts the local community. She highlights the resources available to those who need help in improving their digital skills, including local libraries, community centers, and schools. We also discuss the role of businesses and organizations in promoting digital equity and providing access to digital tools and resources to underserved communities. Marianne Judd emphasizes the need for collaboration and partnerships between different stakeholders to address the digital divide and promote digital literacy. We're grateful to the Nisqually Indian Tribe for their support of this important work. So, if you're interested in learning more about digital equity and literacy and how you can get involved in your local community, be sure to tune in to this episode of Talent Magnet. https://thurstonchamber.com/programs/...

E35: What is an Employee? Apr 28, 2023

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Holly Smith with L&I’s Workers’ Compensation Determinations Unit. She answers the question “What is an employee?” and explains what that determination can mean for businesses. With questions, reach out to the L&I Small Business Office at SmallBusiness@Lni.wa.gov or 1-800-987-0145.

E34: Supporting Military Transition: A Conversation with Andrew Garate from the Thurston County Chamber Apr 07, 2023

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug introduces the topic of military transition and the challenges that transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face. Our guest Andrew Garate, Senior Director of Military Transition Programs and Strategic Initiatives at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce. In this interview, we'll learn the following *Andrew's role at the Thurston County Chamber and the Chamber's mission to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses. *Andrew will share some of the programs and initiatives that the Chamber offers to support the military community. *The two discuss some of the challenges that transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face and how the Chamber helps address those challenges. Thank you, Andrew for joining the conversation and sharing valuable insights! Learn more about the Thurston County Chamber here: https://thurstonchamber.com

E33: Talent Magnet Speaks with Mike Reid about Olympia Career Hub Jan 11, 2023

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Mike Reid, Economic Development Director for the City of Olympia, about the Olympia Career Hub and the benefit it brings to Olympia residents. You can find out more about the Career Hub at https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaCaree... or on the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce website at https://thurstonchamber.com/olympia-c...

E32: Equal Pay & Opportunities Act and At Will Employment Aug 18, 2022

In this episode of Talent Magnet, Christina Evans with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, joins the program to speak about the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act, as well as at-will employment and what that means for both employers and employees. Talent Magnet is brought to you by Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, the podcast where we help businesses become talent magnets by focusing on recruitment, training, and retention best practices. Your host is Michele Winn from the Thurston County Chamber’s Workforce Division. Each episode is filled with a variety of information and interviews with experts in the workforce. Learn more about Talent Magnet here https://thurstonchamber.com/workforce...

E31: Addiction, Recovery and Second Chance Employment Dec 31, 2021

Ty Reed, Founder of Recovery Career Services, joins the program to share his own recovery story and reveal the business case for why organizations should hire people in recovery. Ty discusses the benefits of second chance employment and why employment is so crucial for individuals in recovery. You'll also hear about how businesses can assess risk when it comes to hiring.

For more information, visit https://www.recoveryandwork.org/

E30: L&I's Risk Management Consultation Program- Providing Confidential, No-Fee, Professional Advice and Assistance to Washington Businesses Jun 25, 2021

Yesenia Sabedra, Risk Management Consultant with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, joins the program to discuss L&I's risk management consultation program, and the benefits to businesses of working with an L&I risk management consultant. Discover the 5 areas of best practice.

For questions or to request a risk management consultation please contact Bobbie Hanna at 360-870-2269 or hacq235@lni.wa.gov.

E29: WA Retail Association SAFEME- Free Workplace Safety Training Jun 02, 2021

Rick Means, Director of Safety and Education with the Washington Retail Association, joins the program to discuss the launch of the new safety app SAFEME, which provides Washington area businesses with free safety and accident prevention training. Hear success stories and discover how SAFEME can help businesses save money, increase productivity, and create a safer work environment. For more information, visit: https://wrasafeme.org/

E28: L&I 2021 COVID-19 WA Business Requirements: Don't Let Your Guard Down Yet Mar 08, 2021

Erica Minton, L&I Industrial Hygiene Consultant, joins the program to discuss some of the key takeaways that all Washington State businesses should know in relation to COVID-19 requirements. Discover resources to find out the most current information and updates on COVID-19 related requirements, and the biggest challenges that businesses are facing when it comes to COVID-19 compliance.

To learn more, visit the below links:

https://lni.wa.gov/agency/outreach/coronavirus-covid-19-worker-face-covering-and-mask-requirements-questions

https://lni.wa.gov/safety-health/preventing-injuries-illnesses/request-consultation/

http://wisha-training.lni.wa.gov/training/articulate/maskselection/story.html

https://www.governor.wa.gov/

www.findyourphasewa.org

https://www.coronavirus.wa.gov/

E27: Creating a Safe, Healthy Workplace with WA's DOSH Consultations Nov 18, 2020

In this episode you'll hear from Lou Flores, statewide consultation manager for the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) for the state of Washington, as well as Jim Lawrence, Region Four consultation manager, and Lindsey Unruh, Region Four Industrial Hygiene Supervisor, as they discuss the DOSH consultation program.

Discover how DOSH can help businesses with their goals of creating a safe and healthy workplace by conducting a free, onsite consultation to find and fix workplace hazards.

Call a consultant near you or email DOSHConsultation@Lni.wa.gov to schedule any of the following services

• David Conley – Region 1 Consultation Manager (425) 290-1369 CODA235@lni.wa.gov

• Scott Reiquam-Region 2 Consultation Manager (206) 348-0809 REIU235@lni.wa.gov

• Brian Sahli-Region 3 Consultation Manager (235) 596-3917 SAHB235@lni.wa.gov

• Jim Lawrence-Region 4 Consultation Manager(360) 575-6951 LAWO235@lni.wa.gov

• John McFadden-Regions 5&6 Consultation Manager (509) 886-6570 MCFJ235@lni.wa.gov

E26: How Businesses Can Become Talent Magnets for People with Disabilities Oct 05, 2020

Andrew Houghton, founder and president of Disability Inclusion Solutions, joins the program to discuss what businesses need to consider in order to recruit and retain people with disabilities. Andrew reveals his own journey of being a wheelchair user since a 1986 motorcycle accident, and how he has been able to enjoy sports, the outdoors and create a media production company. Discover helpful resources for preparing your organization to hire individuals with disabilities.

E25: The Total Warrior Model: Translating Individual Performance into Team Outcomes Sep 08, 2020

Jason Van Camp, decorated Green Beret, author of Deliberate Discomfort, and Founder and Chairman of Mission Six Zero, joins the program to discuss his Total Warrior Model, training that helps translate individual performance to team outcomes for business, as well as his NFL team clients. We also discuss the work that his non-profit Warrior Rising is doing to help veteran entrepreneurs (or "vetrepreneurs") start or accelerate their businesses. Jason reveals the challenges and opportunities that veterans face when they transition out of military life and shares tips for success. https://missionsixzero.com/ https://www.warriorrising.org/

E24: Creative Retention Strategies and the Changing Nature of the Workplace Mar 20, 2020

Sytease Geib, former co-host of Talent Magnet and VP of Workforce Development at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, joins the program to discuss creative ways to retain talent, and the changing nature of work. Sytease discusses her own journey of moving across the country after the birth of her second child, how she has continued to do some remote project based work, and shares takeaways from her experience. Discover ideas for how employers can support their workers while they may be working from home, and how to balance work and family obligations.

E23: Using VR Technology to Attract the Next Generation of Job Seekers Feb 14, 2020

In this episode, you'll hear how Sierra Pacific Industries, the 2nd largest lumber producer in the U.S., is using innovative technology to capture the attention of a new generation of job seekers at hiring events. Jacquelin Earley and Joshua Zepeda from Sierra Pacific Industries join the program to discuss how they are using virtual reality (VR) headsets to give job seekers a peek into their high tech facilities.

E22: Recruiting and Retaining Primary Care Physicians- Challenges and Opportunities Dec 27, 2019

Tamara Schaffert, Chief Operating Officer of Physicians of Southwest Washington, an independent physician association based in Olympia, WA, (PSW) joins the program to discuss the shortage of primary care providers in America. Discover the scope of the problem, and the efforts that are being made to recruit and retain primary care providers in the region and nationally. Tamara also shares her thoughts about innovative solutions and how the state and federal government can be part of the solution.

To learn more about Physicians of Southwest Washington, visit https://www.pswipa.com/

E21: Career Connect WA- Creating Learning Opportunities That Lead to High Demand, High Wage Jobs Sep 30, 2019

With more job openings than people available to fill them, how do we create a pipeline of skilled workers? In this episode, you'll learn about career-connected learning and what Washington State is doing to ensure that the education system puts students on a pathway to careers. Maud Daudon, who is leading the creation of a 10-year vision and strategic plan for building a statewide career-connected learning and apprenticeship system in Washington State, is the featured guest.

E20: Second Chance Employment- Hiring 1/3 of the U.S. Population Jun 13, 2019

This episode features an interview with Deanna Rodkey, Community Employment Specialist for Correctional Industries, a division within the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC). Deanna reveals why businesses should tap into the valuable labor pool of returning citizens, and some of the biggest misconceptions that employers have when it comes to this population.

To learn more, visit:

https://www.washingtonci.com/

E19: How Career and Technical Education is Preparing the Next Generation of Workers Jun 04, 2019

Teri Pablo, CTE/Communications Director for Yelm Community Schools in Washington State and Susan Larson, Career Technical Education Teacher at Black Hills High School in the Tumwater School District, join the program to discuss the importance of Career and Technical Education for the emerging workforce.

To learn more, visit:

www.ycs.wednet.edu/cte

E18: Work Ex- A New Opportunity To Recruit Transitioning Military Members and Their Spouses May 14, 2019

Michele Helfgott-Waters, Military Spouse and Program Manager for Work Ex at Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Seth Mattos, former Marine, licensed geologist and partner at GeoResources, LLC join the program to discuss the details and benefits of the Work Ex program.

About the guests:

Michele Helfgott-Waters, Military Spouse and Program Manager for WorkEx at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, leading the team for PacMtn and the Thurston County Chamber.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XG3_ukZ6XA0

Seth Mattos, former Marine, licensed geologist and partner at GeoResources, LLC, a small Geotechnical Engineering and Earth Science firm located in Tacoma, Washington. They provide geotechnical engineering services to a wide range of clients and projects in the greater Puget Sound area.

https://www.georesources.rocks

E17: Chapter Next & Lockheed Martin Apr 23, 2019

Cheri Larkins, Director of Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems Global Talent Acquisition, and Melissa Thomas, Senior Proposal Analyst in the Operations Proposals and Planning Group join the program to discuss the Chapter Next program, which provides the opportunity to re-engage returning professionals who have been away from the workforce for two or more years to resume their previously successful careers.

To learn more, visit:

https://www.lockheedmartinjobs.com/chapter-next

https://www.linkedin.com/company/lockheed-martin/

E16: Connecting Youth to Careers: B2Y Connect Mar 17, 2019

This episode features Christina Chesnut, Business Services Coordinator for WorkSource Thurston and Lewis Counties, as she discusses the importance of connecting youth to careers. Discover how Business2Youth Connect helps students find work integrated learning opportunities in the community that fit within their career interests.

For more info, visit:

http://thurstonchamber.com/business-2-youth-connect/

E15: Unlocking Hidden Talent Mar 08, 2019

Megan Fiess, Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Workforce Division Project Manager, joins the program to discuss the role that business can play in helping opportunity populations, rural communities and youth to get ahead in their careers, and the benefits that unlocking hidden talent can provide to employers. Megan shares her own story of becoming homeless at 15 years old, and how an employer gave her an opportunity that helped her become financially stable and further her education.

E14: Upskilling Staff Through Training: Future of Work Program & Impact WA Feb 06, 2019

This episode features an interview with Geoff Lawrence, Account Executive at Impact Washington, and Robert Bishop President, SATECH, Inc. as they discuss the importance of upskilling staff through training and share tips and takeaways from their experiences. Discover the Future of Work program and the impact that upskilling staff can have on an organization.

To learn more, visit

https://impactwashington.org/

www.smartcellsusa.com

E13: Pre-Apprenticeship Programs as Innovative Recruitment Strategies Jan 23, 2019

Trenton Fluetsch, Service Manager from Sunset Air, joins the program to discuss how his company uses pre-apprenticeship programs as an innovative recruitment strategy in a tight labor market.

To learn more about Sunset Air, visit https://www.sunsetair.com/

E12: Amazon Military Recruiting Initiatives Dec 31, 2018

Nick Curry, Senior Program Manager at Amazon Web Services, joins the program to discuss Amazon's military recruiting intiatives. Discover tips and takeaways for recruiting and retaining transitioning service members and their spouses.

To learn more, visit:

https://www.amazon.jobs/en/landing_pages/mil-apprentice

E11: Keeping Company Culture Intact As Your Business Grows Dec 13, 2018

Rozanne Garman, President & CEO of RHD Enterprises, joins the program to discuss tips and insights for maintaining a strong company culture in a growing business.

To learn more about RHD Enterprises, visit www.rhdenterprises.com

E10: How Great Leaders Attract Top Talent Nov 25, 2018

Reid Bates, Owner of Express Employment Professionals offices in Olympia, Centralia and Aberdeen, Washington, joins the program to discuss the Thurston County Chamber's 9th annual "Boss of The Year" Award. Reid, a co-founder of the award, shares how the initiative got started and why it has continued. He also reveals the role that a great leader plays in an organization and the impact they can have on recruitment and retention.

To learn more about Express Employment Professionals, visit: www.express-olympia.com

E09: Building A Company Culture That Supports Recruitment and Retention Nov 13, 2018

Devin Craig from Craig Consulting Group joins the program to discuss how to build a fantastic workplace culture that supports recruitment and retention. The episode also features one of Devin's clients, Hunter Brooks, co-founder of the healthy salad chain Evergreens. Devin and Hunter discuss takeaways and lessons learned about creating and sustaining a positive workplace culture.

E08: Labor Exchange – Using the WorkSourceWA.com to Connect Jobseekers and Employers Oct 25, 2018

This episode features an interview with Chad Pearson, Marketing, Outreach, and Communications Manager at Employment Security Department. Discover how labor exchanges work, and the benefits of labor exchanges for job seekers and employers. Chad also gives a rundown of some of the most updated features and benefits of WorksourceWA.com

To learn more, visit :

www.WorkSourceWA.com

www.linkedin.com/in/cmpearson

E07: Career Connected Learning and Recruitment Aug 23, 2018

In this episode, you'll learn about Lakeside Industries and their involvement in career connected learning and recruitment. John Hurd, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Lakeside Industries, joins the program to discuss best practices, lessons learned, as well as their innovative afterschool program.

E06: Intercity Transit's Vanpooling Service Jun 14, 2018

Carolyn Newsome, Vanpool Manager at Intercity Transit, discusses the benefits of their vanpool service for employees and businesses.

About Intercity Transit: In addition to routed buses, Intercity Transit has 180 vanpools traveling up and down the I-5 corridor, the program removes over 1,200 cars from our congested roadways each day which helps keep traffic moving for everyone. https://www.intercitytransit.com

E05: Veteran Friendly vs. Veteran Ready May 18, 2018

Shellie Willis, Director of Quality Assurance and Certification at WorkForce Central, joins the program to discuss the difference between companies being veteran friendly versus being veteran ready, and how to become veteran ready. About Shellie Willis: Shellie Willis is a U.S. Army Veteran who currently works for WorkForce Central, the workforce development board in the City of Tacoma and Pierce County. She is the Director of Quality Assurance and Certification, and has oversight of all military initiatives to include certifying the new WorkSource site on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Shellie serves on the Washington State Military Transition Council where she provides insight to how the system supports the military community and assist employers with strategic ways to hire and retain their military talent by being Military Ready.

E04: Great Minds at Work- Mental and Behavioral Health in The Workplace May 03, 2018

Melodie Pazolt, Recovery Support Services Supervisor for the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery at DSHS, joins the program to discuss the work that they do helping people with mental health and behavioral health find and maintain employment. She also discusses their anti-stigma campaign, and the benefits for employers of attracting and retaining individuals in recovery from mental health or substance abuse disorders.

E03: Shared Work and Layoff Aversion Program- How It Helps Employers and Employees Apr 10, 2018

Shelley Ackroyd, outreach specialist at SharedWork Program and Virginia Gonzalez from Smith Gardens, Inc. join the program to discuss the benefits of the shared work and layoff aversion program and the eligibility criteria for the program.

E02: Retention Best Practices- Lessons From Pepsi Northwest Beverages, LLC Jan 24, 2018

Tim Lew, General Manager at Pepsi Northwest Beverages, LLC, discusses best practices in employee retention. Tim discusses a mentorship program that they created at Pepsi Northwest Beverages and the benefits that they have seen from the program. He also shares how they have used focus groups within the organization to create programs designed to increase employee retention.

E01: Recruiting and Retaining Veterans and Military Spouses Jan 23, 2018

Darlene Wilczynski,Vice President and Regional Executive of the Seattle Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, joins the program to discuss how her experiences as a veteran and military spouse inform her current work. Darlene shares some of the unique challenges that veterans and military spouses experience when they transition into civilian employment, as well how to identify key strengths and skills that they can bring to any organization. She also reveals takeaways for hiring professionals about how they can recruit and retain veterans and military spouses.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected