TalentWise

Markstein
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MANAGEMENT

Welcome to TalentWise – a podcast dedicated to identifying and unpacking challenges and solutions related to the workforce. Every other week we will hear from experts in their field or industry who are fighting to better understand shifting dynamics.

  1. S2 Ep 4: Driving the Workforce Forward: Inside the Tank Truck Workforce Challenge

    FEB 25

    S2 Ep 4: Driving the Workforce Forward: Inside the Tank Truck Workforce Challenge

    Across past episodes of TalentWise, we’ve explored the workforce challenge from every angle: demographers breaking down the data, HR leaders sharing proactive strategies, mental health experts strengthening critical infrastructure, and national apprenticeship advocates building new pathways to opportunity. Now, we’re shifting gears to a part of the economy that keeps everything moving but rarely gets the spotlight: trucking — specifically tank truck transportation. This essential sector powers industries from energy to food supply, yet it faces an urgent need to attract the next generation of drivers. To unpack what’s at stake and what solutions are on the table, we’re joined by Ryan Streblow, President & CEO of National Tank Truck Carriers. His perspective connects national workforce trends to the very real operational challenges on the ground as we discuss how this story fits into the bigger workforce puzzle.

    29 min
  2. S2 Ep 3: Marketing With Meaning: Building Trust, Results and Good Jobs with Rashida Reese and Jillian Darling

    FEB 11

    S2 Ep 3: Marketing With Meaning: Building Trust, Results and Good Jobs with Rashida Reese and Jillian Darling

    Today’s episode brings the conversation to life with Rashida Reese, president & CEO and Jillian Darling, social media specialist for ReBirth Marketing and Consulting. Rashida and Jillian share how ReBirth cuts through marketing noise by starting where it matters most: deeply understanding clients, honoring their stories, and delivering results that actually move the needle. Drawing on real-world collaborations with organizations like the Birmingham Police Department, the Birmingham Jefferson County Port Authority, and Good Jobs, this episode builds on themes from our previous discussion with Dr. Olivia Cook Howell and Sarah Wilson. It’s a timely, practical, and refreshingly human look at how thoughtful marketing can support meaningful work.

    31 min
  3. S2 Ep 2: Good Jobs Birmingham: A Local Model for a National Healthcare Workforce Crisis with Dr. Olivia Cook Howell and Sarah Wilson

    JAN 27

    S2 Ep 2: Good Jobs Birmingham: A Local Model for a National Healthcare Workforce Crisis with Dr. Olivia Cook Howell and Sarah Wilson

    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.

    43 min
  4. S2 Ep 1: Lessons From the Front Lines of Leadership with Laura Kavanagh

    JAN 14

    S2 Ep 1: Lessons From the Front Lines of Leadership with Laura Kavanagh

    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.

    35 min
  5. The Voices Shaping the Future of Work: Season 1 Highlights

    11/05/2025 · BONUS

    The Voices Shaping the Future of Work: Season 1 Highlights

    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.

    35 min
  6. S1 Ep 12: No Limits with A.C. Roper

    09/17/2025

    S1 Ep 12: No Limits with A.C. Roper

    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.

    30 min
  7. S1 Ep 11: Strategy Starts with a Vision First with Gray Swoope

    09/04/2025

    S1 Ep 11: Strategy Starts with a Vision First with Gray Swoope

    27 min
  8. S1 Ep 10: Inclusivity Is the Key if We Are to Prosper with JW Carpenter

    08/19/2025

    S1 Ep 10: Inclusivity Is the Key if We Are to Prosper with JW Carpenter

    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.

    36 min
See All (18)

Trailer

About

Welcome to TalentWise – a podcast dedicated to identifying and unpacking challenges and solutions related to the workforce. Every other week we will hear from experts in their field or industry who are fighting to better understand shifting dynamics.

Information

  • Creator
    Markstein
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    TalentWise