DisruptED

Detroit, once a symbol of the Rust Belt’s decline, is now rewriting its story as a hub for innovation and mobility. Home to the Michigan Central innovation district and Newlab, the city has transformed into a growth engine for startups tackling the future of transportation. With its rich history as the birthplace of automotive mobility and its current momentum as a technological disruptor, Detroit is attracting mobility entrepreneurs eager to reshape mobility for the 21st century.

So, what makes Detroit the ideal launchpad for next-gen mobility startups? How do spaces like Newlab support the innovation ecosystem?

In this episode of DisruptED, host Ron J. Stefanski sits down with Ben James, the Co-founder and CEO of Tubular Network, a cutting-edge company revolutionizing the last mile of delivery with robotic tube systems. Together, they explore why Detroit’s dynamic ecosystem, grit, and historical relevance make it the perfect home for mobility entrepreneurs and companies like Tubular Network.

Key takeaways from the episode:

The Detroit Comeback Story: Once seen as a symbol of urban decline, Detroit is now a magnet for mobility entrepreneurs, with Newlab serving as a vibrant incubator for innovation.

The Tubular Network Journey: Ben James explains why Tubular Network relocated from Austin to Detroit and how the city’s mobility-focused infrastructure has catalyzed their growth.

Why Ecosystems Matter: Newlab provides the ideal environment for startups to collaborate, innovate, and showcase their technologies in spaces designed to inspire and disrupt traditional mobility.

Ben James is an accomplished entrepreneur and product leader with extensive experience in augmented reality, electric transportation, and education. As the Co-founder and CEO of Tubular Network, he leverages his engineering expertise and hyperloop technology background to pioneer innovative logistics solutions. With a career spanning leadership roles at Magic Leap, CoStar Group, and National Instruments, Ben excels in driving product strategy, leading prototyping teams, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to address multidisciplinary challenges.

In a healthcare landscape reshaped by post-pandemic challenges, workforce shortages and burnout are stretching the system to its limits. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, while turnover rates among nurses and allied health professionals continue to climb. With healthcare systems struggling to address the physician shortage and fill critical roles, the question looms large—how do we bridge the widening gap between workforce demands and skill-building opportunities?

How can healthcare organizations upskill and sustain a future-ready workforce in this disrupted environment?

In this episode of DisruptED, host Ron J. Stefanski dives into this critical issue with three industry leaders: Jason Aubrey, Founder and CEO of Skilltrade; Geoffrey M. Roche, Director of Workforce Development at Siemens Healthineers; and Jesse McCree, CEO of SCPa Works. The experts discuss strategies, insights, and innovations aimed at addressing the physician shortage and solving one of healthcare’s most pressing crises.

Key takeaways from the episode:

Combining Online and Hands-On Training: Jason Aubrey highlights how Skilltrade blends flexible online education with critical hands-on experience, addressing both regulatory requirements and real-world skills gaps in healthcare training.

Employer-Led Workforce Models: Geoffrey Roche underscores the success of employer-led initiatives, such as those in Wisconsin, where health systems drive apprenticeship programs to build sustainable talent pipelines.

Removing Barriers to Workforce Entry: Jesse McCree emphasizes the importance of reducing barriers, such as childcare and access to clinical opportunities for underrepresented communities, to create equitable and resilient workforce solutions.

About the Guests

Jason Aubrey is a private equity-backed CEO with a proven track record in organizational transformation, innovation, and growth across tech-enabled businesses globally. He is the founder and CEO of Skilltrade and previously led MedCerts to a successful acquisition by Stride, Inc., expanding its healthcare and IT certification training programs to address workforce gaps. With a background in political science from the University of Michigan, Jason co-founded LectureTools, a student engagement technology company, which grew to nearly 800 universities globally before being acquired by Echo360.

Geoffrey M. Roche is the North America Director of Workforce Development at Siemens Healthineers, where he leads national strategies to build sustainable, future-ready healthcare workforces while advancing health equity. With over 15 years of experience in public health, workforce transformation, and higher education leadership, he has driven initiatives such as public-private partnerships, upskilling programs, and health equity solutions at institutions like Harrisburg University and Lebanon Valley College. A thought leader and speaker, Geoffrey serves in advisory roles with organizations like the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and contributes to workforce innovation as a Forbes Business Council member and podcast host.

Jesse McCree is a seasoned workforce and human capital executive, currently serving as CEO of SCPa Works, where he oversees over $14 million annually to advance impactful workforce programs and regional economic growth. With 15 years of experience in workforce development, Jesse specializes in aligning business needs with job seeker opportunities, leveraging labor market data and strategic investments to create equitable economic mobility. He also holds advisory roles with the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and the U.S. Conference of Mayors Workforce Development Council, contributing expertise in labor market trends and workforce policy.

Integrating education and workforce training as an employee benefit has become a pivotal strategy for talent acquisition and retention. While industry leaders like Walmart, McDonald's, and Starbucks have long championed such programs, mid-sized and smaller enterprises often face barriers to implementation. A study found that education reimbursement programs deliver a 129% return on investment, meaning for every dollar spent, companies gain an additional $1.29. This makes the case clear that upskilling is not just a perk but a business imperative.

How can mid-market companies effectively adopt and benefit from educational assistance programs?

Part two of this episode of "DisruptED" features host Ron Stefanski continuing to engage with Sasha Thackerberry-Voinovich, CEO of SkillsWave. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities mid-sized businesses face when implementing education benefits, emphasizing the importance of aligning these programs with cutting-edge technology and measurable business outcomes.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• Technology as a Driver: Innovative platforms streamline the implementation of educational and workforce training programs, enabling scalability and efficiency for businesses of any size.

• Investment with Impact: Upskilling initiatives not only reduce turnover but also foster innovation and competitiveness in a disrupted workforce landscape.

• Tailored Learning Paths: Personalized education tracks align employee career growth with organizational goals, enhancing engagement and retention.

Sasha Thackerberry-Voinovich is a renowned leader in corporate upskilling and education innovation. As the CEO of SkillsWave, she bridges the gap between education providers and businesses, driving transformative workforce development. Sasha holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Kent State University and has held key leadership roles at D2L, Louisiana State University, and Pearson, bringing unparalleled expertise to the table.

The landscape of employee education and workforce development is undergoing rapid disruption. Employers are stepping in to bridge the skills gap, offering education as a benefit to attract and retain talent while addressing critical workforce needs. With U.S. student loan debt reaching $1.77 trillion as of late 2024, corporations are innovating to provide employees with opportunities to advance without financial burden. This shift raises critical questions about how companies can effectively balance ROI with meaningful support for their workforce.

How are corporations reshaping employee education for frontline and non-traditional workers while ensuring business outcomes?

On this Part 1 of a 2-part episode of DisruptEd, host Ron Stefanski dives into the rapidly evolving intersection of education, workforce development, and technology with Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich, president of SkillsWave. Together, they explore how innovative learning models and partnerships are transforming the role of corporations in upskilling their employees.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

• The Evolution of Education as a Benefit: Companies like Starbucks and McDonald’s pioneered this movement by offering tuition assistance and programs for frontline workers, shifting corporate culture from exclusive executive MBAs to widespread educational access.

• Aligning Learning with Business Goals: Organizations are now prioritizing education programs that directly impact business outcomes, such as increasing employee retention, improving productivity, and reducing external hiring costs.

• Navigating a Disrupted Learning Landscape: With the erosion of state support for higher education and changing workforce needs, both learners and employers are asking new questions about the ROI of traditional degrees versus skills-based education.

Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich, Ph.D., is an accomplished leader in higher education and innovative learning models, with expertise in eLearning systems and workforce upskilling. As President of SkillsWave and former Senior Vice President at D2L, she has driven corporate partnerships and scalable learning solutions, enhancing talent development for major organizations and universities. Sasha's career includes key roles at Louisiana State University and Pearson, where she spearheaded online education initiatives, team building, and operational growth, solidifying her reputation as a transformative force in education and technology.

Just a day ago, Google revealed a quantum computing chip capable of solving complex problems in just five minutes—challenges that the fastest supercomputers in the world would likely spend ten septillion years solving. Quantum computing has long hovered on the fringes of public consciousness, yet it’s poised to revolutionize industries on a scale far exceeding that of AI. Recent advancements in quantum chip development, coupled with the ongoing surge in global cybercrime—projected to cost nearly $11 trillion annually—underscore the urgent need for robust technological breakthroughs. As quantum computing races toward practical application, many are asking: What makes quantum computing the cornerstone of the next technological era?

Welcome to DisruptED. In this episode, host Ron J. Stefanski dives deep into this transformative topic with Sean Brehm, Chairman and Independent Director of the Spectral Capital Corporation. Together, they explore the revolutionary potential of quantum computing and its implications for data, cybersecurity, and global economic dominance.

Key Takeaways:

The Quantum Advantage: Sean explains how quantum computing refines raw data into actionable insights far beyond the capacity of traditional AI, positioning it as the foundation of next-generation technology.

Cybersecurity Revolution: It also offers unprecedented solutions to combat escalating cybercrime, with applications in quantum ledger databases enhancing transparency, immutability, and data privacy.

Global Talent Challenges: Developing the technology requires overcoming a critical bottleneck—limited global expertise and infrastructure.

Sean Brehm is a seasoned technology leader with over 25 years of experience, specializing in quantum computing, machine learning, and cybersecurity. He is the Chairman of Spectral Capital and the Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of CrowdPoint Technologies, where he pioneers the development of quantum and decentralized ledger technologies to enhance data privacy and redefine AI applications. A former U.S. Army officer and IBM executive, Sean combines his expertise in defense, intelligence, and business to drive transformative innovations across multiple sectors.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has undergone a dramatic shift in the last decade, driven by the need to address inequities in education, workforce development, and social impact giving. Companies that prioritize social responsibility can gain the trust and loyalty of their customers, establishing themselves as impactful contributors to society. As companies reimagine their approach to philanthropic programs, initiatives like AT&T Aspire and Year Up have transformed how organizations create opportunities for underserved communities while aligning with corporate goals. DisruptED explores the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts, the Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.

How are leaders leveraging CSR to drive meaningful change in a disrupted world?

In the first episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron Stefanski sits down to explore the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts. The conversation also delves into the integration of upskilling initiatives and future of social impact giving. From his 22-year career at AT&T to his current role at United Way, Kelem shares key insights from the frontlines of corporate philanthropy.

Key Points from the Episode:

– The Evolution of CSR: Kelem discusses how CSR programs like AT&T Aspire transitioned from funding education to directly investing in workforce upskilling, emphasizing alignment with corporate goals.

– The Power of Upskilling: Programs such as Year Up demonstrate how providing technical and soft skills to underserved communities can disrupt traditional pathways into corporate roles.

– Rewiring Career Paths: Kelem shares his personal journey from corporate marketing to becoming a leader in CSR, illustrating the growing importance of purpose-driven work in today’s business landscape.

Kelem Butts is an accomplished Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) leader with over two decades of experience at AT&T, where he directed multi-million-dollar initiatives such as AT&T Aspire and Connected Learning to bridge the digital divide and support student success. Currently serving as Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, he leverages his expertise in grant management, sustainability operations, and strategic partnerships to position organizations as key ESG resources. His career highlights include spearheading large-scale philanthropic programs, fostering public-private collaborations, and driving impactful outcomes for both communities and corporations.

In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies are rapidly evolving, adapting to new challenges is paramount. As digital transformation accelerates societal shifts, organizations like United Way of Metropolitan Dallas are at the forefront of addressing critical issues, from education to economic mobility. This episode of DisruptED dives into the dynamic world of CSR with Kelem Butts, who transitioned from a 20-year career at AT&T to lead impactful initiatives at United Way.

What does it take to pivot CSR strategies in a rapidly disrupted world? And how can organizations balance resource reallocation while maintaining their mission?

In the second episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron J. Stefanski delves into the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts, Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. The conversation explores career rewirement, strategic pivots, and creating measurable impact. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of aligning corporate and nonprofit goals to address pressing community needs.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

- Strategic Pivoting in CSR: Insights into how AT&T shifted focus from upskilling to addressing the digital divide during COVID-19 and how this transformation inspired Kelem's career shift.

- Measurable Impact in Education and Income Mobility: United Way’s data-driven approach to tackling issues like third-grade literacy rates and increasing living wages in Dallas.

- Adapting to Disruption: The evolution of career navigation programs to meet workforce demands in a tech-driven, globally interdependent economy.

Kelem Butts is a thought leader in CSR with over two decades of experience. He previously spearheaded transformative initiatives at AT&T and now drives strategic efforts at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, focusing on education, income, and health. A passionate advocate for social impact, Kelem combines his corporate expertise with a nonprofit lens to deliver lasting change.

Cheerleading has leapt from the sidelines to center stage, thanks to its transformation into a global athletic powerhouse. With its recent recognition as an Olympic sport, the evolution of cheerleading from school spirit activities to a multi-billion-dollar industry is monumental. Central to this transformation is Jeff Webb, whose groundbreaking vision reshaped the sport and built a business empire. How did a college cheerleader with a dream turn Varsity Spirit into a $2.5 billion enterprise?

Welcome to DisruptED. In this episode, host Ron J. Stefanski and guest host Ashley Williams sit down with Jeff Webb, the founder of Varsity Spirit and president of the International Cheer Union, to explore his journey from a law-school-bound student to a pioneer in the evolution of cheerleading. Webb shares how he turned challenges into opportunities, from organizing innovative cheer camps to creating a globally recognized brand.

The main points of discussion:

- From Law School to Cheer Camps: How Webb’s decision to defer law school launched his career in cheerleading, laying the foundation for Varsity Spirit.

- Building a Vision: The creation of a modernized, athletic, and entertainment-driven approach to cheerleading that redefined the sport.

- Navigating Obstacles and Scaling Innovation: How Webb tackled financial challenges, developed new products like performance uniforms, and expanded into a multi-faceted business empire.

Jeff Webb is a master entrepreneur and a visionary in the world of sports branding. He founded Varsity Spirit, the driving force behind the evolution of cheerleading, which sold for $2.5 billion in 2018. Webb also serves as president of the International Cheer Union, where he played a key role in cheerleading’s Olympic recognition. With over 40 years of experience, Webb is a sought-after business and politics commentator.

Cheerleading has evolved into a sophisticated, global sport, recognized for its athleticism, artistry, and ability to inspire confidence among youth. In 2021, cheerleading was recognized as an official Olympic sport, underscoring its significance on the international stage. This transformation reflects the efforts of innovators like Jeff Webb, whose leadership and vision turned cheerleading into a billion-dollar industry.

What does it take to transform a grassroots sport into an internationally recognized discipline, and what challenges accompany such a monumental shift?

In the second episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, hosts Ron J. Stefanski and Ashley Williams sit down with Jeff Webb, the founder of Varsity Spirit and president of the International Cheer Union. Webb delves into the pivotal decisions that led to cheerleading’s global growth, its Olympic inclusion, and the entrepreneurial ingenuity that built the industry around it.

The main points of conversation:

- The Power of Television: How cheerleading competitions were adapted for television audiences, beginning a new era of visibility and growth.

- Cross-Marketing Innovations: The integration of camps, uniforms, and competitions into a cohesive business model that fueled the sport's expansion.

- Internationalization and Olympic Recognition: Strategies for globalizing cheerleading and navigating the complex processes for International Olympic Committee recognition.

Jeff Webb is a transformative figure in the cheerleading industry and a master entrepreneur. As the founder of Varsity Spirit, he revolutionized the sport through camps, competitions, and uniforms. The company sold for $2.5 billion in 2018. Currently, Webb serves as the president of the International Cheer Union, where he has successfully led efforts towards getting cheerleading recognized as an official Olympic sport.

The rapid evolution of online education has ushered in new challenges and opportunities for engaging learners and improving outcomes. With millions of students relying on virtual platforms, educators and ed-tech innovators face the critical task of creating dynamic, relevant, and impactful learning experiences. The stakes are high, as effective education not only shapes career trajectories but also addresses issues of accessibility and equity in underserved communities. How can we make online education more engaging, learner-centric, and aligned with real-world skills?

In this episode of DisruptED, host Ron J Stefanski is joined by Andrew Shean, Chief Learning Officer at Penn Foster, to explore the transformative potential of ed-tech and discuss strategies for optimizing the learner experience in online environments. Together, they dive into the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future of education.

The main points of conversation:

- Transformational Learning Models: Shean highlights the innovative LADS framework (Learner-Centric, Authentic, Active, Differentiated, and Skill-Based) and its 30-40% improvement in student outcomes.

- Lessons from Experimentation: Insights into why some approaches, like cosmetic course redesigns, fail to improve engagement, while evidence-based, learner-focused methodologies succeed.

- Relevance and Authenticity: The importance of situating learning in real-world scenarios to foster relevance and engagement, particularly for career-focused learners.

Andrew Shean brings over two decades of expertise in ed-tech and learning sciences. As Chief Learning Officer at Penn Foster, he spearheads initiatives to make education accessible and impactful for underserved learners. Shean’s pioneering work includes developing scalable, evidence-based frameworks for online education and contributing to industry thought leadership.