Episodes

  • Lipscomb University

    Lipscomb University
    Jun 27 2025
    Workforce Focus: Building Tennessee's Early Childhood Education Pipeline In this episode of State of the Workforce, we shine a spotlight on early childhood education and the growing need for qualified teachers across Tennessee. Dr. Leslie Cowell, Dean of the College of Education at Lipscomb University, and Melanie Shinbaum from the Nashville Early Education Coalition join us to discuss the urgent demand for educators serving children ages 0-5. Dr. Cowell returns later in the episode alongside Angela Goddard of the Joe C. Davis Foundation to explore how teacher apprenticeships at Lipscomb are opening doors for aspiring educators. Finally, we believe everyone who wants to work in Tennessee should have that opportunity. Misty Vetter Parsley and Becky Sullivan from the Lipscomb IDEAL Program share how they’re preparing individuals with developmental disabilities for meaningful employment and greater independence.
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    22 mins
  • ProStart

    ProStart
    May 30 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the world of culinary arts and hospitality through the lens of ProStart. We sit down with Brittany Barragan from the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association and Chef Lyndsey Weatherford of Nolensville High School to explore how ProStart allows students to explore real-world careers in the hospitality industry.

    Then, it's off to the kitchen with the State Culinary Champions from Blackman High School in Rutherford County as they showcase the award-winning dishes that earned them the top title.

    Finally, we catch up with the Management Competition State Champions, Senior Audrey Mangrum and Junior Evan Tracey from Nolensville High School, to learn about their winning restaurant concept, marketing strategy, and business plan.

    From sizzling kitchens to boardroom pitches, this episode highlights the passion, skill, and career potential.
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    23 mins
  • YEP (Youth Employment Program)

    YEP (Youth Employment Program)
    Apr 25 2025
    In this month’s episode of State of the Workforce, we focus on the future—specifically, the next generation entering the job market. The 2024 Youth Employment Program (YEP) was a major success, connecting nearly 5,000 young people aged 14–24 with meaningful work experiences across Tennessee. We sit down with Cortney Richardson from Peer Power in Memphis, who shares how YEP participants gained hands-on experience in diverse fields ranging from law offices to construction sites. Then, we hear from Chris Trull of Buffalo River Resort, who highlights how YEP boosted participants’ confidence and showed the impact of supporting youth employment in rural communities. Finally, we recognize National Skilled Trades Day with Kevin Harrison, Vice President of TCAT Nashville. Kevin talks about how careers in the skilled trades offer affordable, debt-free pathways to success and are a smart choice for anyone entering the workforce. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Tennessee is investing in its young workers and building a stronger workforce for tomorrow.
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    23 mins
  • Go Build Tennessee

    Go Build Tennessee
    Apr 2 2025
    This month on State of the Workforce, we spotlight the skilled trades industry in Tennessee and the growing demand for trade professionals.

    We sit down with Steve Van De Voorde, Board President of Go Build Tennessee, to discuss the urgent need for skilled workers and how apprenticeships are helping to close the workforce gap.

    Next, we hear from Clay Crownover of Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Tennessee, who shares how making the switch from a desk job to a hands-on trade career is easier than many think.

    Finally, Leslie Gower from Associated Contractors of East Tennessee introduces us to the Be Pro Be Proud trailer—an interactive experience that gives middle school students a firsthand look at careers in the skilled trades.

    Tune in for an insightful discussion on how Tennessee is building a stronger workforce through education, training, and opportunity!
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    23 mins
  • State of the Workforce - Nashville and Memphis American Job Centers

    State of the Workforce - Nashville and Memphis American Job Centers
    Mar 3 2025
    In this episode, we explore how new partnerships are reshaping workforce development in Tennessee. In Nashville, the American Job Center has relocated to Nashville State Community College's East Davidson campus, creating a co-located hub for education and employment services. We sit down with Dr. Shanna Jackson, President of Nashville State, and Workforce Essentials’ Executive Director Marla Rye to discuss the impact of this collaboration.

    Meanwhile, in Memphis, the American Job Center has moved to Midtown’s Crosstown Concourse to better serve the community. We speak with Director Sarita Allen about the benefits of the new location and what it means for job seekers and employers.
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    23 mins
  • State of the Workforce - Tourism in Tennessee

    State of the Workforce - Tourism in Tennessee
    Feb 3 2025
    From the vibrant energy of Beale Street in Memphis to the high-speed excitement of the Bristol Motor Speedway, tourism plays a vital role in Tennessee’s economy. Host Chris Cannon sits down with Tourism Development Commissioner Mark Ezell and Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association CEO & President Sara Beth Urban to explore how sales tax revenue from visitors is reinvested into communities—creating jobs, increasing wages, and expanding the state’s tax base. They also discuss the rewarding career paths available in tourism and hospitality. Finally, we travel to Gatlinburg, where The Greystone Lodge on the River General Manager Jackie Leatherwood shares insights on hiring in the hospitality industry and building a strong workforce for the future.
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    23 mins
  • State of the Workforce - 2025 A look ahead

    State of the Workforce - 2025 A look ahead
    Jan 3 2025
    State of the Workforce: 2025 – A Look Ahead In 2025 this insightful episode, we explore the evolving landscape of labor, workforce development, and economic trends shaping 2025. Joining us are Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Deniece Thomas and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter. They share how their collaborative efforts between workforce initiatives and economic development are driving growth and innovation. We delve into the emerging business sectors poised to thrive this year and the strategies supporting their success.Later, Lindi Berrones highlights the remarkable achievements of the largest Governor's Conference (GovCon) event on record, shedding light on its impact and lessons for the future. Don’t miss this forward-looking discussion on the state of the workforce and opportunities ahead!
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    22 mins
  • State of the Workforce - Stax Records

    State of the Workforce - Stax Records
    Dec 2 2024
    In this episode, we travel west on I-40 to the legendary Stax Records in Memphis, the birthplace of some of music’s greatest hits. We sit down with Pat Mitchell Worley, CEO of the Soulsville Foundation, to discuss Stax’s pivotal role in shaping the state’s cultural identity and its contributions to workforce development through youth programs. Next, we meet Issac Daniel of the Stax Music Academy, which has been empowering teenagers to explore their musical talents and learn the business of music for over two decades. Finally, we visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Soulsville, a destination that offers fun and inspiration for the entire family.
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    22 mins