The Ways We Work a Podcast By America Works

In this episode of The Ways We Work, Host Joel Thomas interviews America Works Network of Companies CEO Dr. Lee Bowes about the company’s leadership during the early uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic and how it changed workforce development. Dr. Bowes recounts tracking the emerging crisis as early as January 2020 and committing to keep staff employed and services running for clients despite conflicting public guidance. America Works rapidly created a detailed continuity policy that was adopted by New York City and other jurisdictions, shifted overnight to remote operations, launched remote job fairs, and supported staff and clients with resources like virtual wellness activities, food distribution, and providing tablets and laptops. 00:00 Pandemic Retrospective02:10 Early Warning Signs04:07 Commitment To Stay Open06:29 Remote Work Pivot07:42 Isolation And Morale10:22 Hard Calls On Accountability16:17 Supporting Clients Remotely21:27 Essential Work Divide23:38 Zoom Space Tethers25:52 Remote Work New Normal30:53 Training Goes Hybrid31:49 Barriers to Remote Jobs35:33 Caregiving and Pharm Tech38:07 AI Fears and Reality41:49 Leading Through Crises46:55 Concluding Thoughts

In the second episode of the 'Ways We Work' podcast brought to you by the America Works Network of Companies, host Joel Thomas, Director of Education, once again speaks with workforce development leader and CEO Dr. Lee Bowes. They discuss the importance of opportunity as a factor in finding a job, and how the America Works model focuses on strengths rather than perceived barriers. Key topics include the impact of bail reform programs in Baltimore, challenges faced by special populations like the justice-involved, and the role of personalized approaches in connecting people with jobs. The episode also delves into the potential of AI in enhancing workforce services and addresses concerns about its implications on job opportunities.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:55 The Evolution of Opportunity04:44 Innovative Solutions for Employment Challenges10:00 The Role of Networks in Job Opportunities12:17 Adapting to Changes in the Job Market18:39 The Impact of Technology on Recruitment26:15 Personalized Approaches to Employment30:06 Navigating One-Stop Centers and Unemployment Complexities31:43 Addressing System Fatigue and Building Trust35:07 Challenges and Strategies in Job Placement39:50 Special Populations: Justice-Involved Individuals43:47 Bail Diversion and Reform Success Stories48:55 The Role of Character Strengths in Employment56:16 Adapting to Technological Changes and AI59:48 Concluding Thoughts #newpodcast #americaworks #workforcedevelopment #futureofwork

In the inaugural episode of the 'Ways We Work' podcast brought to you by the America Works Network of Companies, host Joel Thomas, Director of Education, speaks with workforce development leader and CEO Dr. Lee Bowes. They discuss why work remains crucial for societal and individual growth, emphasizing the transformative power of employment over reliance on government benefits. Dr. Bowes shares her own stories of her first ever job as a hospital volunteer and early success stories with clients she served, which shaped her vision for creating employment-focused solutions. The conversation highlights America Works' methods in job placement, training, and breaking down barriers to employment, while touching on the challenges and technological advancements in the job market. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:36 Why Work Still Matters03:34 Dr. Bowes's Early Career and Insights09:25 The Evolution of America Works13:08 Memorable Client Stories23:01 Impact of the Pandemic on Work26:38 Workforce Development Success Stories30:06 Early Support Strategies for Employers30:49 Challenges with Traditional Job Programs32:32 Policy Makers and Employment Initiatives35:44 Motivating Job Seekers38:38 Innovative Techniques in Job Training40:54 Adapting to Job Market Changes47:56 Personal Stories and Reflections53:55 Future of Work and Final Thoughts