Amplifying the voices of the workforce
Workforce On The Mic – Presented by NAWDP
What could happen if we could take our workforce to new heights? Workforce on the Mic presented by NAWDP brings you inspiring stories, innovative solutions, and expert insights that are shaping the future of the workforce. Tune in for dynamic conversations that transform the way we prepare our communities for their dream careers.
Thursday, Jan 22, 2026
EP 17: A BIG STEP Forward: Preparing Talent for Apprenticeship Success
Lindsay Blumer, President and CEO of WRTP | BIG STEP, shares why apprenticeship readiness matters now, highlighting how earn-and-learn models create equitable, industry-led pathways while strengthening talent pipelines for both workers and employers.
Thursday, Dec 18, 2025
EP 16: Workforce Reflections: Inside a Year of Growth, Change, and Shared Purpose at NAWDP
As 2025 comes to a close, Workforce on the Mic – Presented by NAWDP reflects on a year of growth and shared purpose. In Episode 16, Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP, discusses key moments from 2025 and emerging priorities shaping workforce development in 2026.
Friday, Nov 21, 2025
EP 15: From Classroom to Career: District C’s Blueprint for Real-World Problem Solving
This episode explores how District C’s Teamship model and educator Coaching Institute equip students with real-world problem-solving and collaborative skills through scalable school–industry partnerships that prepare diverse learners for the modern workforce.
Monday, Oct 27, 2025
EP:14 Pivot, Partner, and Progress: Insights from the Business Services Academy
Recorded live at the Business Services Academy, this episode of Workforce on the Mic explores how workforce professionals are redefining employer engagement through trust-building, strategic partnerships, and innovative tools like AI to create lasting impact.
Thursday, Sep 25, 2025
E13: Celebrating Workforce Development Month: Changing Lives with Wayne Williams
This episode of Workforce on the Mic features Wayne Williams as he shares his journey and demonstrates how workforce development empowers individuals, transforms communities, and drives lasting economic growth through connection, confidence, and collaboration.
Thursday, Aug 28, 2025
EP12: Cultivating Leaders: Lessons from the NAWDP Leadership Academy
Discover how the NAWDP Leadership Academy is shaping workforce leaders through practical learning, collaboration, and skill-building. This session highlights how participants develop emotional intelligence, foster trust, and drive innovation—offering insights you can apply to your own leadership journey.
Friday, Jul 25, 2025
EP11: Inside NAWDP: Diversity, Growth, and the Future of Workforce Development
Crystal Odom-McKinney shares her journey from case manager to leader, offering insights on growth, mentorship, and how NAWDP drives meaningful change for workforce professionals and communities.
Thursday, Jun 26, 2025
EP10: One-Stop, Many Services: How AJCs Support Job Seekers and Employers
Host Alexis Franks and guest Sarita Alston reveal how American Job Centers connect people to jobs, training, and resources while strengthening communities.
Thursday, May 22, 2025
EP09: The Power of Local: NYC’s Blueprint for Workforce Advocacy
Greg Morris shares how advocacy, partnerships, and storytelling can powerfully impact local workforce systems and uplift underserved communities.
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
EP08: Workforce Legacies pt 2: Bob Knight on Workforce Innovation
Workforce veteran Bob Knight joins Kim Meadows to reflect on decades of workforce evolution. They discuss innovation, sector strategies, AI, funding, and advice for the next generation of workforce leaders.
Wednesday, Mar 26, 2025
EP07: Workforce Legacies in Action: Part One
Larry Robbin shares how his immigrant roots shaped his workforce journey. Hear his take on breaking employment barriers, strength-based discovery, and building business relationships—insightful for both new and seasoned professionals.
Thursday, Feb 27, 2025
EP06: Mentorship That Matters: Building Youth Career Confidence
Dr. Scott Brewster shares mentorship strategies to help youth navigate career choices, build confidence, and access resources for success.
Thursday, Jan 23, 2025
EP05: From the Barbershop to the Boardroom: Innovative Approaches to Community Impact
In this episode of Workforce on the Mic, how Esther Lewis and Soyica White use barbering spaces to advance mental health, career coaching, and workforce development.
Sunday, Dec 29, 2024
EP04: A Champion for Youth: NFL Legend Darrell Green’s Journey to Workforce Development
NFL legend Darrell Green joins “Workforce on the Mic” to share his journey from the field to workforce advocate. Hear how he’s empowering youth and bridging communities through Eckerd Connects, reentry work, and lifelong dedication to opportunity.
Monday, Dec 09, 2024
EP03: Adulting for Beginners: Leading Youth in Workforce (LIVE from the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium) Part 1
Welcome to LIVE from the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium - Part 1, a special two-part podcast series recorded straight from this year's NAWDP Youth Symposium.
Thursday, Sep 26, 2024
EP01: Are You a Workforce Development Professional? Unconventional Paths and Hidden Connections
This episode explores how workforce development extends beyond government and non-profits to include private employers and economic developers—revealing how all sectors contribute to talent growth and strong local economies.
Dr. Scott Brewster shares mentorship strategies to help youth navigate career choices, build confidence, and access resources for success.
Meet Your Host
Alexis Franks
As the voice behind Workforce an the Mic – presented by NAWDP, Alexis Franks, NAWDP Director of Membership, brings a wealth of experience and passion for workforce development. With years of hands-on expertise in workforce solutions, she is dedicated to highlighting the latest trends and innovations that drive the industry forward for the larger NAWDP community. Whether speaking with thought leaders, discussing impactful strategies, or offering actionable insights, Alexis guides listeners through every episode with a focus on empowering professionals to make a difference in their communities.
Join us each episode for fresh perspectives and meaningful conversations about the future of workforce development.
