TalentWise

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Don Barden, a classically trained behavioral economist and globally recognized authority on leadership and decision-making, whose career spans more than three decades of shaping organizations across the U.S. and around the world. From transforming global firms to redefining how leaders think, decide, and drive impact, Don brings a depth of experience that goes far beyond a traditional résumé. You’ll want to stick around for the full conversation to hear the insights you won’t find anywhere else.

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Colson, president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association, a longtime partner and champion of one of the state’s most essential industries. With more than 32,000 trucking companies and 130,000 Alabamians moving goods across the state, Mark offers a look at the people who keep communities running every day and the stories behind the wheel. His enthusiasm for elevating trucking as a meaningful, accessible career path comes through, making this a conversation that goes beyond logistics. If you’re curious about the impact and opportunities in this industry, be sure to listen.

Today’s episode features a conversation with Ani Huang, a leading voice at the intersection of executive leadership, compensation strategy and the future of work. As president of policy and practice for the CHRO Association and CEO of the Center on Executive Compensation, Ani is shaping how top organizations navigate complex workforce challenges, from executive pay and governance to the growing influence of AI on human capital strategy. With a front-row seat advising senior executives and policymakers, she brings a rare blend of insight and real-world perspective. If you’re curious how leadership decisions at the top ripple across an entire organization, you’ll want to tune in.

In this episode, we sit down with a dynamic leader whose impact on economic development speaks for itself. With more than two decades of experience shaping urban growth, fostering business expansion, and building powerful public-private partnerships, Cornell Wesley, executive director of Prosper Portland, brings both insight and real-world results to the conversation. During his time leading economic development for the City of Birmingham, his strategic vision helped generate $2 billion in economic impact and $1.2 billion in new investments. Combined with his strong academic foundation from Morehouse College and Mercer University, Cornell’s story is one of leadership, innovation, and measurable success. If you’re curious about what it really takes to drive meaningful economic growth in today’s landscape, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with two of our own colleagues from Markstein. Chief Creative Officer Chris Hoke and Brand Director Angela Thomas give a behind-the-scenes look at how thoughtful storytelling and bold creative strategies can help organizations tackle one of today’s biggest challenges: attracting and retaining talent. As a creative communications agency focused on transforming the workforce, Markstein has partnered with multiple organizations on impactful workforce initiatives, from campaigns with the Birmingham Police Department to the collaborative Good Jobs effort. Building on conversations from our recent episodes with ReBirth Marketing and the Good Jobs Birmingham team, this discussion explores how branding, messaging, and purpose-driven communication can shape stronger workforce pipelines and why the stories organizations tell matter now more than ever.

Across past episodes of TalentWise, we’ve explored the workforce challenge from every angle: demographers breaking down the data, HR leaders sharing proactive strategies, mental health experts strengthening critical infrastructure, and national apprenticeship advocates building new pathways to opportunity. Now, we’re shifting gears to a part of the economy that keeps everything moving but rarely gets the spotlight: trucking — specifically tank truck transportation. This essential sector powers industries from energy to food supply, yet it faces an urgent need to attract the next generation of drivers. To unpack what’s at stake and what solutions are on the table, we’re joined by Ryan Streblow, President & CEO of National Tank Truck Carriers. His perspective connects national workforce trends to the very real operational challenges on the ground as we discuss how this story fits into the bigger workforce puzzle.

Today’s episode brings the conversation to life with Rashida Reese, president & CEO and Jillian Darling, social media specialist for ReBirth Marketing and Consulting. Rashida and Jillian share how ReBirth cuts through marketing noise by starting where it matters most: deeply understanding clients, honoring their stories, and delivering results that actually move the needle. Drawing on real-world collaborations with organizations like the Birmingham Police Department, the Birmingham Jefferson County Port Authority, and Good Jobs, this episode builds on themes from our previous discussion with Dr. Olivia Cook Howell and Sarah Wilson. It’s a timely, practical, and refreshingly human look at how thoughtful marketing can support meaningful work.

In this episode, we’re joined by two true change makers: Dr. Olivia Cook Howell, founder of OVA Consulting Firm and project manager for Good Jobs Birmingham, and Sarah Wilson, former Deputy Director of the City of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity. Together, they take us inside the Birmingham Region Health Partnership, a bold healthcare workforce training initiative powered by a $10.8 million Good Jobs grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how cities, partnerships, and forward-thinking leaders can build sustainable talent pipelines in the face of a workforce crisis that’s been brewing for decades. If you want to understand what’s actually working, and how these ideas could shape the future of healthcare in your community, be sure to listen.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of TalentWise, we dig into the very real workforce crisis that’s been building for decades and what it actually takes to lead through it when the stakes are high. We’re joined by Laura Kavanagh, whose journey from a shy, small-town kid to the first woman commissioner of the FDNY offers a rare, unfiltered view of leadership under constant pressure. Having led 17,000 people and a $2.3 billion organization through 24/7 crises, Laura brings hard-earned insights on adaptability, resilience and what modern leaders often underestimate about today’s workforce challenges. Her story is surprising, deeply human and packed with lessons you won’t want to miss.

The workforce crisis isn't coming. It's here. The smartest leaders are moving fast to adapt. In this bonus episode of TalentWise, we’re wrapping up Season 1 with a powerful recap that brings together insights and highlights from every guest who joined us this season. From tackling the realities of the talent shortage to rethinking workforce strategies amid remote work, skills gaps, and wage pressures, this episode distills the most impactful lessons and actionable ideas shared so far. Whether you’re new to TalentWise or ready for a quick refresher, this episode is your all-in-one guide to building a smarter, more resilient workforce. Tune in to hear the voices shaping the future of work and get inspired to take your next step forward.

In this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Lieutenant General (Ret.) A.C. Roper, former Deputy Commander of U.S. Northern Command, former Birmingham Chief of Police, bestselling author, and now CEO of A.C. Roper & Associates, for a powerful conversation about leadership, resilience and the future of the workforce. Drawing on decades of experience across both military and civilian sectors, Chief Roper shares lessons on recruitment, retention, readiness and the skills today’s leaders need to prepare teams for rapid change, whether driven by technology, shifting demographics or unexpected crises. From building trust and fostering diversity in leadership pipelines to embracing a “no limits” mindset, this discussion is packed with insights that will inspire leaders in every industry. Tune in to hear how Chief Roper is helping shape the next generation of talent and how you can apply these lessons to your own organization.

On this episode of TalentWise, we’re diving into one of the most important conversations shaping our future: building a stronger, more inclusive workforce. Joining us is J.W. Carpenter, president of Prosper, whose career journey from math teacher to lawyer to leading education and workforce initiatives has uniquely positioned him to drive change in Alabama and beyond. As the first president of Prosper, J.W. is leading efforts to create a thriving Southeast economy through inclusive job creation, preparation and access. His insights are both inspiring and practical, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss.

What if we could reimagine the way young people enter the workforce and create a more sustainable pipeline for employers in the process? In this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Brent Parton, president of CareerWise, a groundbreaking youth apprenticeship program based in New York City. Brent brings deep expertise from both national policy and grassroots implementation and shares how CareerWise is transforming education-to-career pathways while offering a scalable model for other communities. If you care about the future of work, youth opportunity, or workforce innovation, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

On this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by April Benetollo, CEO of Momentum and a leader with three decades of experience driving business growth, building high-performing teams and transforming organizations from the inside out. April has spent her career at the intersection of strategy, innovation and people—and she’s passionate about helping teams thrive and creating more inclusive cultures. In this conversation, she shares her expertise in leadership and nonprofit work to highlight the vital role women play in the workforce and why it matters. Don’t miss this powerful discussion!

In this episode of TalentWise, we’re diving into a side of workforce development that often gets overlooked—mental health. We've learned from top demographers, researchers and industry leaders about today’s complex workforce challenges, and one thing is clear: mental health and access to care are at the heart. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Kim Boswell, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health, to share her insight. From education to productivity, mental health touches every part of our community and economy. Tune in to hear how Commissioner Boswell is helping shape a stronger, healthier workforce for Alabama—and why this conversation matters.

We’ve explored the workforce crisis from every angle—demographics, research, strategy and HR—and this week we’re diving even deeper. On this episode of TalentWise, we’re joined by Frank Trigueros, talent acquisition group leader at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, who brings a unique perspective from one of the most advanced science and technology institutions in the country. Frank shares valuable insights on attracting and retaining top talent in highly specialized fields. Tune in to hear how bold innovation meets real-world workforce strategy. 

On this week’s episode of TalentWise, we’re diving deep into the heart of today’s workforce challenges with a special guest, Ryan Faught, senior vice president of people at Milo’s Tea. From shifting demographics to evolving employee expectations, the workforce crisis we’ve long seen coming is here...and most organizations are scrambling to keep up. Ryan brings a wealth of experience and insight from his time at the University of Alabama, Harvard’s Young American Leaders Program and Wharton’s Executive Education in HR. Whether you're an industry leader, HR professional, or just trying to make sense of the talent landscape, this episode offers practical wisdom and fresh perspectives you won’t want to miss. Tune in and find out what it really takes to stay ahead in this new world of work.

On this week’s episode of TalentWise, we’re diving into the workforce challenges affecting every corner of every industry and why real solutions are needed. Our guest is Janet May, chief human resources officer at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, who brings decades of experience from institutions across the country. Janet’s seen it all and is here to share what’s really going on behind the scenes when it comes to recruiting, retaining and supporting talent in today’s shifting landscape. If you’ve been wondering why the workforce crisis feels bigger than ever, and what leaders are doing about it, don't miss this conversation!

In this episode of TalentWise, we’re diving even deeper into the workforce conversation with nationally recognized researcher and generational expert Kim Lear, founder of Inlay Insights. Following eye-opening discussions with Nyesha Black and Jeff Lenard about the scope of our labor challenges and how industries are responding, Kim brings a fresh perspective on the trends shaping the future of work. With her unique blend of data, storytelling and humor, Kim helps us make sense of what’s happening now and what’s coming next. Tune in to learn how these insights can shape your organization’s strategy moving forward.

In this episode, we welcome Jeff Lenard, vice president of media & strategic communications at the National Association of Convenience Stores, to discuss how the industry is innovating to attract and retain talent amid flat economic growth and a shrinking labor pool. From creative training programs to community-driven recruiting tactics—and even the sector’s vital role in combating human trafficking—Jeff outlines bold strategies that will separate the winners from the rest. Tune in to learn what convenience stores are doing today to keep America moving tomorrow, and pick up practical insights you can apply to your own organization.

Ever wondered why everyone's talking about a looming workforce crisis? Well, we asked ourselves (and the experts) this same question! In our premiere episode, Dr. Nyesha Black from the University of Alabama provides eye-opening insights about what's happening right here in Alabama, where deaths have outpaced births since 2020. Is this just a local issue, or a sign of things to come for the rest of the nation and even the world, as global birth rates continue to decline? We also tackle why fewer people are participating in the workforce, exploring the surprising role COVID-19 played in accelerating these demographic shifts. If you're curious about the future of work and where we'll find people to fill tomorrow's jobs, tune in to hear Dr. Black break down critical trends.

Welcome to TalentWise – a podcast dedicated to identifying and unpacking challenges and solutions related to the workforce. Every other week, we will hear from experts in their field or industry who are fighting to better understand and tackle shifting dynamics in the world of work.