TalentWise

In this episode, we’re joined by two true change makers: Dr. Olivia Cook Howell, founder of OVA Consulting Firm and project manager for Good Jobs Birmingham, and Sarah Wilson, former Deputy Director of the City of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity. Together, they take us inside the Birmingham Region Health Partnership, a bold healthcare workforce training initiative powered by a $10.8 million Good Jobs grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how cities, partnerships, and forward-thinking leaders can build sustainable talent pipelines in the face of a workforce crisis that’s been brewing for decades. If you want to understand what’s actually working, and how these ideas could shape the future of healthcare in your community, be sure to listen.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of TalentWise, we dig into the very real workforce crisis that’s been building for decades and what it actually takes to lead through it when the stakes are high. We’re joined by Laura Kavanagh, whose journey from a shy, small-town kid to the first woman commissioner of the FDNY offers a rare, unfiltered view of leadership under constant pressure. Having led 17,000 people and a $2.3 billion organization through 24/7 crises, Laura brings hard-earned insights on adaptability, resilience and what modern leaders often underestimate about today’s workforce challenges. Her story is surprising, deeply human and packed with lessons you won’t want to miss.

The workforce crisis isn't coming. It's here. The smartest leaders are moving fast to adapt. In this bonus episode of TalentWise, we’re wrapping up Season 1 with a powerful recap that brings together insights and highlights from every guest who joined us this season. From tackling the realities of the talent shortage to rethinking workforce strategies amid remote work, skills gaps, and wage pressures, this episode distills the most impactful lessons and actionable ideas shared so far. Whether you’re new to TalentWise or ready for a quick refresher, this episode is your all-in-one guide to building a smarter, more resilient workforce. Tune in to hear the voices shaping the future of work and get inspired to take your next step forward.

In this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Lieutenant General (Ret.) A.C. Roper, former Deputy Commander of U.S. Northern Command, former Birmingham Chief of Police, bestselling author, and now CEO of A.C. Roper & Associates, for a powerful conversation about leadership, resilience and the future of the workforce.
Drawing on decades of experience across both military and civilian sectors, Chief Roper shares lessons on recruitment, retention, readiness and the skills today’s leaders need to prepare teams for rapid change, whether driven by technology, shifting demographics or unexpected crises. From building trust and fostering diversity in leadership pipelines to embracing a “no limits” mindset, this discussion is packed with insights that will inspire leaders in every industry.
Tune in to hear how Chief Roper is helping shape the next generation of talent and how you can apply these lessons to your own organization.

 
 
 

On this episode of TalentWise, we’re diving into one of the most important conversations shaping our future: building a stronger, more inclusive workforce. Joining us is J.W. Carpenter, president of Prosper, whose career journey from math teacher to lawyer to leading education and workforce initiatives has uniquely positioned him to drive change in Alabama and beyond. As the first president of Prosper, J.W. is leading efforts to create a thriving Southeast economy through inclusive job creation, preparation and access. His insights are both inspiring and practical, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss.

What if we could reimagine the way young people enter the workforce and create a more sustainable pipeline for employers in the process? In this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Brent Parton, president of CareerWise, a groundbreaking youth apprenticeship program based in New York City. Brent brings deep expertise from both national policy and grassroots implementation and shares how CareerWise is transforming education-to-career pathways while offering a scalable model for other communities. If you care about the future of work, youth opportunity, or workforce innovation, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

On this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by April Benetollo, CEO of Momentum and a leader with three decades of experience driving business growth, building high-performing teams and transforming organizations from the inside out. April has spent her career at the intersection of strategy, innovation and people—and she’s passionate about helping teams thrive and creating more inclusive cultures. In this conversation, she shares her expertise in leadership and nonprofit work to highlight the vital role women play in the workforce and why it matters. Don’t miss this powerful discussion!

In this episode of TalentWise, we’re diving into a side of workforce development that often gets overlooked—mental health. We've learned from top demographers, researchers and industry leaders about today’s complex workforce challenges, and one thing is clear: mental health and access to care are at the heart. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Kim Boswell, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health, to share her insight. From education to productivity, mental health touches every part of our community and economy. Tune in to hear how Commissioner Boswell is helping shape a stronger, healthier workforce for Alabama—and why this conversation matters.

We’ve explored the workforce crisis from every angle—demographics, research, strategy and HR—and this week we’re diving even deeper. On this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Frank Trigueros, talent acquisition group leader at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, who brings a unique perspective from one of the most advanced science and technology institutions in the country. Frank shares valuable insights on attracting and retaining top talent in highly specialized fields. Tune in to hear how bold innovation meets real-world workforce strategy.