Hi, loyal listeners of Workforce Waves! We're here with a bittersweet announcement: this is our final episode. You'll hear from Bella Potack Rettler, as she is joined by two very special guests - Melissa Rabska, Director of Operations & Communications, and Mari Kay-Nabozny, the CEO of the Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board. They're the original creators of this podcast, and together, we're going to take a trip down memory lane.

We've been on a six-year journey with you, and it's been an incredible ride. We'll be discussing the impact Workforce Waves has had, the challenges we've faced, and the personal growth we've experienced along the way. Mari and Melissa share their favorite episodes, which cover a wide range of topics from mental health during the pandemic to inclusive workplaces and leadership.

As we bid farewell to the podcast, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to you, our listeners. Your support has meant the world to us. But don't worry - even though we won't be releasing new episodes, the Workforce Waves archive will still be available. It's a treasure trove of valuable insights and resources for job seekers, businesses, and anyone interested in workforce development in rural communities. So, keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep making waves in your own careers and communities. Thank you for being a part of our journey.

This episode features a conversation with Early Childhood Project Manager Jo Nowak-Thompson from the Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board (NWWIB), to discuss the pressing issue of childcare and its impact on the workforce. Jo delves into the current state of childcare in the Northwest Wisconsin region, highlighting the limited number of regulated programs and the challenges faced by both parents and providers. She also explains the connection between accessible, affordable, and high-quality childcare and workforce participation, emphasizing the need for competitive wages and benefits for childcare workers.

The conversation continues in part two of this two-part episode, as Lisa Geason-Bauer, President and Founder of Evolution Marketing, returns to discuss sustainability initiatives in Wisconsin. Lisa discusses the increasing demand for green jobs in the residential construction sector and the need for about a thousand new workers per year in the state to meet energy efficiency goals. Lisa also shares valuable resources for homeowners looking to make their homes more energy-efficient and take advantage of upcoming rebates and tax credits. For more information, visit: https://www.greenmkting.com/ 

Tune in for part one of a two-part conversation with Lisa Geason-Bauer, President and Founder of Evolution Marketing, about the importance of sustainability in business. They discuss how operating in a triple bottom line manner - prioritizing people, planet, and profit - can make businesses more resilient and attractive to both workers and consumers. Lisa shares insights on third-party certifications like B Corp, the increasing demand for transparency and sustainability from younger generations, and the risks of greenwashing. She also touches on how the pandemic has impacted supply chains and remote work. Tune in to learn more about the future of sustainable business practices.

Tune in for a conversation with Zach Zabel, Vice President of the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce. Zach discusses the chamber's mission to support veteran-owned businesses and workers in Wisconsin, resources available to veterans in the state, and how individuals can support veterans and veteran-owned businesses this holiday season. Zach also shares details on the chamber's business accelerator program, perspectives on the childcare shortage crisis, and his plans to launch a podcast focused on economic opportunities in Wisconsin.

This episode features a discussion with Kelly Bubolz, author of "Leaving the Darkness: A Proven and Practical Burnout Guide," where we explore the causes and symptoms of burnout as well as practical tips for setting boundaries, self-care, and changing negative behaviors. Kelly shares her personal experience recovering from burnout, the importance of trusting the process and building a supportive community. Tune in to learn more about recognizing burnout and starting the journey toward a healthier lifestyle.

Tune in to an interview with Chantel Huang, Roadtrip Nation’s Program Operations Manager. Roadtrip Nation is a nonprofit education organization—with a series on PBS!—that sends all sorts of people across the country to interview inspiring people in all kinds of industries. Whether it’s exploring their documentaries and Interview Archive, reading their best-selling book, learning about other people’s stories in their Share Your Road database, or trying out their career aptitude Roadmap Tool test, odds are they’ll have something to help you find the missing piece in your own career journey. You'll also hear from Jake Torok, a past roadtripper, as he recounts his transformative experience traveling over 2000 miles and conducting interviews with leaders across the country. So what are you waiting for? Discover the value of hands-on career exploration with Roadtrip Nation. 

This episode features special guest Rachel Rai Henry, CEO of Creative Flow School. Learn how to unleash your hidden creative talents to revolutionize your work life and beyond. Rachel breaks down her Creative Flow Alchemy Method and explains how your personal 'DNA'—Divine Natural Approach—can elevate your soft skills and problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a corporate go-getter, or someone stuck in a creative rut, tune in to discover how to turn possibilities into golden opportunities.

This episode features a conversation with Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, renowned author, motivational speaker, and education visionary. Joe shares insights from his extensive career as an educator, spanning roles from kindergarten teacher to superintendent of schools. Tune in as we unravel Joe's journey, exploring his transition from school administration to impactful leadership coaching. Discover the essence of fostering a supportive environment, recognizing greatness, and making every interaction count. For more information about Joe, visit http://www.jsanfelippo.com/

This episode features a conversation with Doug Foresta, Director of Podcast Services for Workforce180, as he reveals how he got started as a podcast producer and outlines his career journey from doorman to therapist to podcast producer. Discover tips for successfully navigating career changes. You'll also learn the origins of the word "podcast"!