Paperless Pathways Podcast

The future of work. The future of AI. The human future. What if they're not three separate stories, but one?

In Part 2 of our Season 2 finale, host LaShana sits down with Diego, STARs Advisory Council (SAC) member at Opportunity@Work and tech-based economic development consultant and entrepreneur, to talk about what really defines a STAR (workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes) story: adaptability and resilience, not degrees.

Diego makes the case that the future of work belongs to whoever is ready to meet it, and that STARs already are. If you've ever wondered whether your path counts, this conversation is your answer.

–

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of Paperless Pathways Podcast. Let's build a more inclusive, skills-first future, together.

https://learn.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

–

Follow the movement:

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

What if the most important AI skill isn't technical at all?

In Part 1 of our Season 2 finale, host LaShana talks with Jonetta, a health professional and project management specialist, about how technology, work, and humanity are all headed in the same direction, and why that's a reason for hope, not worry.

It's the closing note for a season built on one idea: AI can be a copilot, not a competitor. Don't miss the conversation that brings Season 2 full circle.

–

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of the Paperless Pathways Podcast.

Let's build a more inclusive, skills-first future, together.

https://learn.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

–

Follow the movement:

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

In this episode of Paperless Pathways, host LaShana Lewis sits down with Erin Reddick, Founder and CEO of ChatBlackGPT, to explore how generative AI is transforming the way people gain skills, access opportunity, and shape their careers.

_

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of Paperless Pathways Podcast.

Let’s build a more inclusive, skills-first future—together.

https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

–

Follow the movement:

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

What if the most powerful AI skill is simply knowing what to ask?



In this episode of Paperless Pathways, host LaShana Lewis talks with Nuri Montilla-Rivas and Charlie Tranquilino about how “talking to AI” is becoming a new form of digital literacy—and how STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) can use it to unlock opportunity.

From improving daily workflows to strengthening personal branding and job search strategies, this conversation shows how prompting is a practical, accessible skill that helps STARs work smarter, communicate their value, and stand out in an AI-powered economy.

Charlie shares how AI has transformed his workflow and visibility, while Nuri explores how expanding access to AI learning can connect more STARs to real career pathways.

_

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of Paperless Pathways Podcast.

Let’s build a more inclusive, skills-first future—together.

https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

–

Follow the movement:

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

AI is changing work—but it can’t replace being human.

In this episode of Paperless Pathways, host LaShana talks with LaunchCode Labs CEO Mara Morrison about the human skills STARs bring to the future of work—from adaptability and resilience to emotional intelligence and problem-solving—a must-listen for anyone navigating career growth in an AI-powered economy.

– 

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of Paperless Pathways Podcast.

Let’s build a more inclusive, skills-first future—together. https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/ 

– 

Follow the movement: 

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ 

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work 

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork 

Forget the idea that AI is replacing workers — STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) are proving they’re essential to the future of technology. And in the explosive kickoff to Season 2 of the Paperless Pathways Podcast, we’re breaking down exactly how. 

Whether you’re a STAR navigating your career, an employer building talent pipelines, or a tech leader shaping the future of work, this conversation will spark insight, inspiration, and action.

What we discuss: 

0:00 Intro 

3:00 AI revolution and adoption 

5:20 Transitioning into AI 

7:30 STAR recourses (ad) 

8:45 How has AI changed thinking 

11:08 How to stand out in the fray 

17:24 Practical AI skill building 

20:47 STARs guide powered by Career Village (ad) 

22:03 LaShana speaks on her STAR story + Transferable skills 

26:40 Context is KING 

27:00 Mentors, breaks, and human stories 

32:00 Advice from Fahz to Fahz 

34:00 Closing 

35:22 Recap of Episode 1 

35:52 Follow up with Fahz 

36:30 Follow the movement + whats next 

– 

🎧 Subscribe and follow to stay updated on every new episode of Paperless Pathways Podcast.

Let’s build a more inclusive, skills-first future—together.

– 

Follow the movement: 

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ 

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work 

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork 

In the final episode of our pilot season, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools for STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes): building authentic connections and personal brands that open doors. Host LaShana, Chair of the STARs Advisory Council, is joined by Marsay McKinney, Lateria Brown, and Kelly Powers for a rich conversation on how STARs can confidently communicate their value, elevate their visibility, and grow their networks with purpose.

This episode breaks down what it means to go beyond traditional networking — into networthing — building relationships that are rooted in shared value, strategic collaboration, and long-term impact. You’ll hear practical tips on how to tell your story, craft your brand, and make meaningful professional connections in today’s job market.

Whether you’re a STAR navigating your next move or a workforce professional looking to empower diverse talent, this episode offers real talk, actionable tools, and inspiration to move forward.

🌟 This marks the season finale of our pilot series — but we’re just getting started. More Paperless Pathways are on the horizon. Stay tuned!

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep5&utm_source=description&utm_medium=cohost&utm_content=&utm_term=

Follow us on social: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ &  https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/, 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork 

Changing careers can feel overwhelming, but STARs (workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes) have the power to pivot and thrive in new industries successfully. 

In this episode, host LaShana is accompanied by Rose Francois and STARs Marsay McKinney, and Malinda Venable,  professionals who have navigated career transitions firsthand. They’ll share their journeys, challenges, and strategies that helped them break into new fields. From understanding why career shifts are becoming more common to recognizing transferable skills, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration for all STARs considering a new path. 

Whether you're making a big move yourself or a hiring manager looking to support career changes, this discussion will highlight how embracing paperless pathways can benefit both individuals and the workforce as a whole. Tune in to learn how STARs are tearing through barriers and stepping into new opportunities with confidence! 

Paperless Pathways Podcast: http://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep4&utm_source=description&utm_medium=cohost&utm_content=&utm_term= 

Follow us on social: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ &  https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/, 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journeys of STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) who are thriving in diverse industries, proving that there are many paths to success. From tech and education to transportation and social work, these STARs are making an impact and demonstrating the value of skills, experience, and determination in the workforce.

Host LaShana Lewis sits down with guests Natalia Lara, Barbara Leach, Malinda Venable, and Zane Richards to discuss how they’ve navigated career transitions, leveraged transferable skills, and expanded opportunities in their fields. Their stories highlight the importance of recognizing talent in all its forms and ensuring that opportunity isn’t limited by outdated hiring practices.

Whether you're a STAR looking for inspiration, an employer seeking untapped talent, or a supporter of equitable career opportunities, this episode showcases how STARs are tearing through industries and reshaping the workforce—alongside all professionals who bring value, regardless of how they got there.

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep3&utm_source=CoHost&utm_medium=description&utm_content=&utm_term= 

Follow us on social: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ &  https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/, 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork 

In this episode of the Paperless Pathways Podcast, we’re proving that there’s no single path to success! Host LaShana dives into real stories from STARs (workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes) who are breaking barriers and building thriving careers—through their paperless pathway.

✨ Rising STARs: Kelly Powers & Ivan Santillan from Opportunity@Work, open up about the challenges and game-changing moments that shaped their careers.

🌟 Shining STARs: LaFawn Davis, Chief People & Sustainability Officer at Indeed, shares how STARs in leadership roles are changing the game for future talent. 

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

Jobcase: STARs Community