Have you ever wondered what it really takes to transform your passion into a sustainable career? In the latest episode of DCMKE, host Jason sits down with the multi-talented Chad Roper—music industry executive, educator, and founder of Amplifier—for a candid, wisdom-filled conversation you’ll want to replay again and again.

Meet Chad Roper: From Math Teacher to Grammy-Nominated Producer

The episode kicks off with Chad Roper sharing his Milwaukee roots and humble beginnings at Rufus King High School, leading all the way to attending Florida A&M University. What’s remarkable is his path—pivoting from being a star athlete and a high school math teacher to becoming a prominent songwriter and producer, working with the likes of Rihanna, John Legend, and Backstreet Boys.

But it doesn’t stop there. Chad Roper takes us into his journey of founding Amplifier, a Milwaukee-based community that connects local writers, producers, and artists with top-notch industry professionals.

Discipline, Consistency, and ‘Success Has Receipts’

What’s the secret sauce to turning a passion into a paycheck? According to Chad Roper: discipline and consistency.

“You have to be consistent at anything you do,” Chad Roper stresses. He likens it to the discipline needed for maintaining healthy eating habits: “If you can discipline your eating, you can discipline everything else in your life.” His lessons—rooted in wisdom from his grandfather—translate directly to artistic and professional pursuits. Excuses may make today easier, but discipline makes tomorrow easier.

The Power of Community and Strategic Networking

The episode dives into why strong networks and mentorship are vital. Chad Roper gets real about the importance of building relationships that aren't just transactional. “Some of the biggest things in my life happened when I did things not for money,” he shares.

Rethinking Wealth, Financial Literacy, and Legacy Building

One of the most powerful segments in the episode centers around reimagining wealth and financial literacy. Chad Roper believes we need to talk openly with young people and our communities about assets, credit, and investment—from saving and the stock market to understanding that “net worth isn’t just cash in the bank. It’s everything working for you.”

He’s raising his own son differently—teaching him about investing, how money works, and how to spot winning opportunities early. “The goal is to make sure our kids are sustained—not for them to have the pressure of pulling us up,” Chad Roper explains, challenging a norm too common in many communities of color.

Find Your Passion—and Commit

The podcast wraps up with a call every creative and entrepreneur needs to hear: Commit to your passion and be honest about your talents. Diversify your skills, be persistent, and don’t fear failure. “Everyone has an appointment they can’t reschedule—it’s the day they die. Don’t take your dreams to the graveyard,” Chad Roper says.

Every topic—networking, generational wealth, personal integrity, and the power of consistent action—was covered with openness and actionable advice.

Connect with Chad Roper: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook: @ChadRoper Amplifier Community Podcast: Search “Amplifier Community Connection” on YouTube Nonprofit and more: DreamsNeverExpire.org

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or just looking for motivation—this episode of DCMKE is packed with empowering lessons for anyone ready to turn their passion into a paycheck. Don’t miss it!

If you're on the lookout for real stories of transformation and hope, the latest episode of the DCMKE podcast is a must-listen. In Episode 6, fittingly titled "Overcoming the Odds," host Jason sits down with leaders from two of Milwaukee's most impactful reentry organizations — Project Return and Partners in Hope.

What’s This Episode About?

Jason kicks off the conversation by welcoming three dedicated community leaders: Andre Brown of Project Return, Frank Pinniger of Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse), and Franklin Coleman, the Job & Career Navigator at Community Warehouse.

Together, they peel back the curtain on what it really means to support people returning home from incarceration — and challenge many stigmas about reentry in Milwaukee.

Meet the Guests and Their Missions

Andre Brown, Project Return: Andre Brown shares about Project Return’s 46-year legacy helping formerly incarcerated individuals establish a new, meaningful life. Their focus? Livelihood resources: employment, housing, clothing, and behavioral support. What sets Andre apart is that he’s walked the walk — once a returning citizen himself, he brings lived experience and humility to his work.

Frank Pinniger & Franklin Coleman, Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse): Frank Pinniger, a returning citizen after 26 years of incarceration, now leads Partners in Hope. Their faith-based nonprofit provides everything from ID recovery and housing to food pantry services, and supports people for a lifetime. Franklin Coleman navigates job opportunities for members, emphasizing the importance of second chances — he's even paired up as a mentee with a lieutenant of the Milwaukee Police Department!

Breaking Down Barriers

A recurring theme throughout the episode is barriers — both personal and systemic. Imagine coming home after decades away, only to find you can’t navigate a smartphone or even figure out the bus routes. Frank Pinniger recounts the emotional and practical hurdles he faced, from the overwhelming feeling of freedom to struggling with simple technology.

Andre Brown and Franklin Coleman echo these sentiments, emphasizing that reentry services have to offer more than just job leads; psychological support, mentorship, and family-like networks make all the difference.

Hope, Second Chances, and Changing the Narrative

Perhaps the most powerful takeaway is the unity and optimism these leaders exude. They are proof that with the right support, people can – and do – change. The episode is brimming with stories of people becoming managers, leaders, and mentors after returning from prison, and shaking hands with those who once represented the other side of the law.

The guests are adamant: Milwaukee has real treasures when it comes to social services. And even those who make mistakes are always welcomed back into the fold, without judgment.

How to Get Help or Get Involved

It’s inspiring to hear Andre Brown and Frank Pinniger share their contact information, inviting anyone who needs resources or wants to help to reach out:

• Project Return: 1004 N. 10th Street, 2nd Floor; Call 414-374-8029 or email [email protected]
• Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse): 324 W. North Avenue; Call 414-331-8483

Welcome back, everyone! If you’re a fan of community-driven conversations on workforce development or just curious about how job centers are changing lives in Milwaukee, episode 5 of the DCMKE podcast is an absolute must-listen. I’m excited to give you the inside scoop on this inspiring episode, featuring host Jason and guests Ric Ybarra from Maximus and Adi Bonetti from UMOS.

Meet Milwaukee’s Workforce Champions

The episode opens with Jason welcoming Ric Ybarra and Adi Bonetti—two leaders whose organizations are at the heart of Milwaukee’s workforce development scene.

• Ric Ybarra : Senior Manager at Maximus serving the Milwaukee market for over two decades. His experience spans workforce services, education, and connecting communities to employment pathways.
• Adi Bonetti : Employment Services Supervisor at UMOS, with 29 years under his belt. He oversees employment programs, GED and ESL classes, and specializes in helping individuals, including reentry customers, reclaim their futures.

North & South: The Job Centers That Power Milwaukee

What makes this conversation powerful is how Ric Ybarra and Adi Bonetti represent Milwaukee’s north and south side job centers—two hubs strategically placed to maximize community reach. Both discuss how these centers are more than just places to find a job; they're pillars in the workforce ecosystem. Clients access:

• Free public services: Resume help, job applications, and digital resources
• Education and upskilling: Partnerships with community colleges, technical training, and GED/ESL courses
• Specialized support: Veterans services, Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, youth programming, apprenticeships, and more
• Stability and mentorship: Case managers and job coaches address barriers—be it food insecurity, housing, or childcare—to help people move from crisis to career.

What Happens When You Walk Into a Job Center?

The guests walk listeners through the typical experience at both locations. Whether someone has a clear goal or needs help figuring out what they need, staff are ready. They provide:

• Reception with staff speaking multiple languages
• Immediate connection to the right resources (employment, emergency services, or training programs)
• Supportive, barrier-free access—whether you’re a single parent, new to the country, or changing careers after decades in one industry

Upcoming Events and How to Get Connected

The episode highlights ongoing events, including job fairs (running through early fall), a major annual workforce summit at MATC, youth-focused panels, and industry-specific resource fairs. The advice: Check the Job Center of Wisconsin calendar for updated events and visit your local center to plug into the network.

Advice for Job Seekers and Career Changers

The wisdom from Ric Ybarra and Adi Bonetti can’t be overstated: Don’t try to do it alone. There’s a misconception that finding a job is simply about sending resumes, but Milwaukee’s job centers focus on holistic support, mentorship, and strategy—making it easier to compete in a crowded job market and make career pivots, even after decades in one field.

On the latest episode of DCMKE, host Jason sits down with Mark Collins, Talent Placement Specialist at iCstars, to unpack how digital tools and intentional community engagement are transforming the Milwaukee job search.

About iCstars: Bridging Opportunity Gaps in Tech

Mark introduces iCstars as a career readiness program with deep roots in Chicago and growing impact in Milwaukee. Created in response to seeing talented individuals struggle to access opportunities, iCstars is all about comprehensive skill-building—offering a blend of web development fundamentals, Microsoft 365 tools, and exposure to real-life corporate environments. But it goes beyond the technical; mentorship and community connections sit at the heart of their approach.

From Candidates to “Talent”: What Makes iCstars Different

The word “internship” more aptly describes iCstars than “classroom.” As Mark clarifies, participants aren’t just students—they’re paid interns, receiving stipends to cover basic expenses while digging into a rigorous, 14-week Monday-to-Friday schedule. This isn’t easy, hence their popular “Wellness Wednesdays,” encouraging participants to pause, recharge, and avoid burnout.

Who Can Apply—and What’s Expected

Eligibility is 18 and up, with the focus strongly on those who haven’t traditionally had access to tech opportunities—think people without college degrees, or those seeking a second chance. Mark emphasizes that hunger, humility, and resilience are more important than formal education. The selection process is thorough, involving info sessions and panel interviews to ensure every cohort member is truly ready to commit.

Connecting Talent to Industry: Placement Success

A highlight of the program is its strong placement rate. Mark proudly notes that 70–80% of iCstars participants find jobs within 90 days of finishing, thanks in large part to supportive local corporate partners like Northwestern Mutual, Molson Coors, and GE Healthcare.

Certifications, Continuing Support, and the Power of Community

While formal certifications aren’t part of the initial curriculum, iCstars recently launched post-program upskilling options such as the CompTIA Tech Plus certificate, empowering alumni to continue advancing. Support from iCstars doesn’t stop at job placement—ongoing mentorship and connections are always on offer.

Navigating AI & Avoiding Digital Burnout

As the discussion shifts to the future of tech and AI, Mark stresses the necessity for everyone to adapt: “Jump on board and find out however you can use it with whatever you're already doing.” But he also cautions that critical thinking, human connection, and intentionality are what truly set candidates apart in a tech-driven world. His tips for managing AI? Treat it as a tool, not a replacement—even use it to boost creativity or revise documents, but always fact-check and bring your own voice.

Mark also advocates for intentional breaks from screens—whether through phone tracking apps or scheduled downtime like iCstars’ Wellness Wednesdays—emphasizing that real success means balancing the digital and human elements of work.

Final Takeaways: Anyone Can Own Their Career Journey

Mark’s core message is clear: “You can take ownership over the next steps in your career, no matter where you're at.” With transformative processes, encouragement, and a belief in transferable skills—even those earned outside of tech—iCstars aims to help individuals embrace their potential and find their place in Milwaukee’s shifting employment landscape.

If you’re interested in learning more, applying, or attending their upcoming workforce development event, head to icstars.org.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on city employment and community impact, the latest episode of DCMKE is a must-listen. Episode 3, titled From the City for the City: Community Leaders on Opportunity, offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Milwaukee’s Department of Employee Relations (DER) is actively working to recruit, empower, and support talent from across the city.

Meet the Voices of City Employment

Host Jason is joined by two dynamic guests:

• Karleen Cortés: Marketing and Communications Officer at DER
• Kwabana Marcus J. Collins: the city’s Diversity Recruiter

Both bring unique stories and impressive commitment to their roles, blending experience on the ground with a real passion for Milwaukee’s future.

Breaking Down Barriers and Building Bridges

Right from the jump, Karleen Cortés shares her journey, moving to Milwaukee after Hurricane Maria and integrating her family into the community. She describes her commitment to giving back and making city employment accessible and approachable for everyone.

Then Kwabana Marcus J. Collins steps in, bringing over 20 years of community-focused work to the conversation. He talks about what it actually means to recruit for a diverse and thriving city workforce, how he avoids favoritism in hiring, and the importance of equity in every step of the process.

Markruitment: Where Marketing Meets Recruitment

Through teamwork, Karleen Cortés and Kwabana Marcus J. Collins blend marketing and recruitment into what they call “markruitment.” The idea? It’s not enough just to have job openings; you need to make sure the news reaches the right people.

Tools for Milwaukeeans: Social Media, E-Notify, and Direct Connect

One major highlight of the episode is how the team uses tech to break down barriers. They shout out their social media channels and explain the importance of making the department relatable, not “stuffy.”

They also discuss the Direct Connect Milwaukee initiative, originally conceived as a “Twitter for jobs” but now powered by ChatGPT to help match people to the right opportunities quickly and efficiently.

Job Access for All — Second Chances and Real Growth

Kwabana Marcus J. Collins makes it clear that the city is a second-chance employer. People with criminal records often ask if they can apply, and the answer is yes! He shares powerful stories of employees who started as entry-level workers and moved up to running entire teams.

The duo is also candid about the value of soft skills and personal uniqueness. They encourage job seekers not to disqualify themselves or lead with past mistakes—instead, highlight your strengths, your journey, and what makes you unique.

Going Beyond Jobs — A Culture of Opportunity

This episode is full of practical tips but also a sense of mission. Milwaukee’s city government is described as a “melting pot” and, in Kwabana Marcus J. Collins's words, a “salad bowl”—diversity in every sense. With paid holidays, internal growth opportunities, support for younger generations through internships, and Employee Resource Groups for every background and interest, you get the feeling this is about more than just filling positions. It’s about building community and legacy.

Ready to Get Involved?

Listeners are encouraged to:

• Visit milwaukee.gov/jobs
• Follow City of Milwaukee DER on social media
• Sign up for job alerts via E-Notify

If you’re searching for real-world advice about job hunting, hiring practices, and the hospitality industry, the latest episode of the DCMKE podcast is a must-listen. This time, host Jason welcomes Laura, HR leader at Saz’s Hospitality Group in Milwaukee, and returning guest Randy McCarthy, for a dynamic and honest conversation.

Meet the Speakers

• Laura: HR professional at Saz’s Hospitality Group, a staple in the Milwaukee food and event scene.
• Randy McCarthy: HR expert with years of experience and a knack for memorable workplace stories.
• Jason: The episode’s lively and thoughtful host.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

The Value of Soft Skills

One of the biggest themes in the episode is the importance of soft skills in the workplace. Both Laura and Randy McCarthy agree that while technical skills can be taught, things like communication, adaptability, a positive attitude, and professionalism are crucial—especially in guest-facing industries like hospitality. Laura summed it up best: “We can teach you skills. What we need is the personality, the appearance, the attitude, all of those components.”

Common Mistakes in Interviews

The episode dives deep into job interview do’s and don’ts, from the HR side of the desk. Top things NOT to do? Overconfidence, lack of research about the company, and poor communication. Randy McCarthy shares that sometimes the biggest red flags are revealed before someone even starts: being short with staff, rolling eyes at lines, or failing to make a good first impression.

How to Stand Out

Both guests offered practical tips:

• Research the employer and mention something specific about their company in your interview.
• Bring a positive attitude and show genuine interest.
• Follow up professionally—a thank you email or even a handwritten note goes a long way.

Resume and Application Musts

Presentation matters! Sloppy errors, misspelled names, and poor formatting can be instant deal-breakers. Personalize your application and make sure it’s complete—details count.

The Hiring Process: Be Prepared

If you want to get hired fast, have your ID, direct deposit info, and any childcare needs settled before onboarding. Communication is key—if life happens or you run into issues, let your future employer know.

Stories from the Field

The episode wraps with some entertaining and insightful stories:

• Success Stories: Saz’s has multiple team members who started as teens and now hold director roles. Longevity and internal growth are big points of pride.
• Hiring Don’ts:Randy McCarthyshares a wild tale: “The one thing not to do is sexually harass the sexual harassment trainer.” Yup, don’t do that.

Do You Need All the Qualifications?

Don’t self-deselect! Both Laura and Randy McCarthy encourage job seekers to apply even if they don’t meet every single requirement. A strong cover letter explaining your fit can make the difference.

References and Referrals

They note that references aren’t always required for entry-level roles but can’t hurt. Referrals from employees are highly valued.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your job search, unsure about your next career move, or just needed a little extra motivation, you’ll want to tune into the brand new podcast—Direct Connect Conversations (DCMKE).

Hosted by Jason, DCMKE isn’t just another career advice show. It’s a dynamic space built with Milwaukee’s community at its heart. In the very first episode, Jason welcomes listeners and lays out the mission: tackling career challenges, building meaningful connections, and strengthening community, all right here in Milwaukee.

Whether you’re looking for your first role, re-entering the workforce, or just exploring your options, this podcast is made for you. Powered by Direct Connect MKE, the podcast acts as your personal career hub—bringing you resources for jobs, training programs, mentors, and support systems that help you thrive.

What’s especially powerful about Episode 1 is its honesty. Jason doesn’t shy away from the real issues: one in four Milwaukee households don’t have Internet at home, and many residents feel overwhelmed or disconnected from opportunities. DCMKE addresses the need for practical tools, relatable stories, and actionable advice—making sure you know you’re not alone on your journey.

Every other week, you can expect new episodes featuring job seekers, employers, youth leaders, and city innovators—each answering the big question: How do we build a Milwaukee where everyone has a pathway to success? You’ll get digital tips you can use today, stories you might see yourself in, and the encouragement to keep pushing forward.

Before you finish listening, Jason encourages you to take action: head to directconnectmke.com and create your free profile. In just five minutes, you could connect to your next job, mentor, or opportunity. Because here in Milwaukee, we’re building the future together—not just looking for work.

So, whether you’re listening while commuting, cooking, or taking some time for yourself, make sure to hit that follow button. The next episode dives into what local employers really want when hiring—trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

Ready to learn, connect, and grow? Start your DCMKE journey now!