A Real Piece of Work: Recent Episodes
Joy Dodson, Matt Rebro
Joy Dodson from Junior Achievement of the Heartland and Matt Rebro of Russell Construction talk with people from a wide variety of professions about what they do, how they got started, and how you might follow in their footsteps. Trying to figure out the right career for you? Check out A Real Piece of Work: The Job Podcast for Young People.A Real Piece of Work is a partnership between Junior Achievement of the Heartland and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR.
In this episode of the podcast, Matt Rebro and Marc Zyla interview Erica Ayres Badan, the CEO of Food52, a home food and lifestyle company.
In this episode of A Real Piece of Work, hosts Matt and Joy interview Kurt Spurgeon, a corporate attorney who specializes in general business and corporate law.
In this episode of the podcast, hosts Matt and Joy interview Matt Blaylock, the founder and CEO of Cold Penny Marketing.
In this episode of ARPOW, hosts Matt and Joy sit down with Amber Matthews, the Director of Operations and Staff Coach for FC United.
In this episode of the podcast, hosts Matt Rebro and Marc Zyla interview Dr. Liang Wee, the Interim Chancellor of Eastern Iowa Community College. They dive into his career journey and his role as a community college leader.
In this episode, hosts Matt and Joy sit down with Aubrey Barnes, a poet, educator, and entrepreneur from the Quad Cities.
Join hosts Matt and Joy in this podcast episode featuring Jared Johnson, the General Manager/CEO of WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, a nonprofit radio station in Rock Island, Illinois.
Join Matt and Joy on this delicious episode of A Real Piece of Work as they talk with Sarah Bluhm Organ, plant manager at the Davenport Kraft Heinz manufacturing facility.
In this episode of "A Real Piece of Work," hosts Matt and Joy sit down with Charlie Hartig, the CEO of Hartig Drug Company, a family-owned pharmacy chain. Matt and Joy have a personal connection to Charlie, as his father and Joy's father-in-law were pharmacy school classmates, and Joy herself worked with him at a pharmacy during her school years.Charlie takes us through his career journey, explaining how he always knew he might work for the family business. With 24 community pharmacy locations and long-term care pharmacy services under his watch, Charlie shares his insights as the CEO of Hartig Drug.The conversation touches on various aspects of the pharmacy field. Charlie discusses the earning potential, with the average pharmacist salary coming in around $123,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. He also sheds light on the non-traditional work hours that are often required in healthcare.COVID-19 becomes a focal point of discussion, as Charlie reveals how Harding Drug dealt with the challenges brought on by the pandemic. From adapting their practices to meet increased demand to administering tens of thousands of COVID vaccines, Charlie emphasizes the importance of networking and staying informed during uncertain times.Not limited to pharmacists and technicians, Charlie also explores other career opportunities within the pharmacy field. He encourages students to shadow different roles and highlights the involvement of health science students at Hartig…
In this episode of "A Real Piece of Work," hosts Matt and Joy sit down with Ashley DuVal, a Senior Scientist at Mars Wrigley, to delve into her fascinating career in developing resilient and productive cocoa plants. The hosts express their enthusiasm to learn about DuVal's role in breeding, integrated pest management, and farming practices that support cocoa farmers and ensure a sustainable cocoa supply. DuVal sheds light on the challenges that cocoa faces, such as pests, diseases, and climate change.DuVal takes the audience on a journey through her educational background in botany and plant sciences, revealing how her interest in crop breeding developed. She shares that she pursued a PhD in cocoa genetics after Mars Wrigley successfully sequenced the cocoa genome. When questioned about her daily routine, DuVal describes the various facilities her team utilizes, including greenhouses, labs, and field trials, to study cocoa plants and gather crucial data. She emphasizes the importance of global collaboration in deploying research findings.The conversation also touches upon career opportunities and compensation at Mars Wrigley for individuals interested in scientific pursuits. The hosts couldn't resist asking about any free chocolate perks, which DuVal addresses with good humor. For students contemplating a career shift, DuVal wholeheartedly encourages following one's passions, as careers often take unexpected turns. She imparts valuable advice to her younger self, emphasizing…
Who doesn’t like a good thriller fiction book; one which reminds you to question how safe you are at home, at work and in every step you take? How cool if your REAL daily job was providing security and protection in masses? Well, on this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt & Joy have a thriller job interview for you! Shaun Guidebeck, Product Coordinator at Per Mar Security,shares the drive and desire in his career journey and how impactful his role is in the daily security and protection of people he will never meet; their security at the heart of his daily grind.
YOU are the designer of your career story! Have you ever though about how the approach to life and design can be so parallel? How impactful is the space you live in? Have you ever considered the amount of research, thought, and organization that goes into a well designed and inspirational space? As one of the next ARPOW guests states “once the why is understood, the how becomes far clearer!”
Say YES to this opportunity! Join Matt & Joy LIVE from Forest Grove Elementary as they explore the world of farming and beyond with a curious group of 4th graders and Hans Schneckloth, President of Schneckloth Farms. Note: You won’t just learn about farm life on this podcast episode!Hans grew up on a farm in eastern Iowa and is working his way into running and growing that same farm today. He attended St. Ambrose University and received a degree in business management and was particularly interested in macroeconomics. Outside of farm life, he is the president of a "for-impact” called Tapestry Farms, and also serves on the planning and zoning commission of Scott County.Hans is married with 3 kids and is setting the table for us all on this episode as we learn the ways of becoming a #changemaker.
Claire Stein is guilty; guilty of switching careers, returning to school and earning her associates degree in court reporting. And now, NOW she is a “guardian of the record”. It all stemmed from Law & Order. (Can you hear the clang playing in your head?)Do you have a love for the courtroom? How many words can YOU type per minute? Join Matt and I on this 30th episode of A Real Piece of Work as we uncover the career journey of a current Wisconsin based Stenographer. 22 keys, 225 words per minute. Find a machine, learn a new skill and earn some cash in the courtroom and beyond. This could be the career for you!
Does your job require you to sit at a desk? Do you sit in chairs while waiting at the doctor or while attending classes? Have you ever thought about the knowledge and research that goes into the chair you sit in or the desk in front of you? Do you realize that the people designing your every day furniture truly care about you and your wellness through the products they design?The term wellness encompasses an array of meanings. Our guest on this episode of A Real Piece of Work is proud and honored to share her passion and meaning of wellness as well as her journey in becoming the Senior Ergonomics & Wellness Strategist at the HNI, a leading provider of workplace furnishings. Dr. Lauren Gant’s background in biomedical engineering was just one stepping stone to discovering a career that will continue to inspire her and all those she reaches through work, her community efforts and beyond.That chair you are sitting in…. it’s SO much more than a chair!
Or in this case, hear all about it on this episode of A Real Piece of Work. Join Matt and Joy as they explore this fascinating career in the news world. David Robbins Jr. is a page designer at The Washington Post, designing the sports and A-sections (State and National Politics, Finance and World sections). Do you love writing? Have you ever wondered what a career in page designing would be like? Tune in and listen to David’s advice in this podcast; DREAM BIG, stay connected and don’t forget about that Linked In page.David D. Robbins Jr., Page Designer at The Washington Post. I design the sports section, the A-Section (State and National Politics, Finance and World sections) and I've also worked online and been asked to do help with simple illustrations. Before working at the Post I was a senior page designer for Gannett -- which included designing any number of newspapers as varied as The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Nashville Tennessean, Des Moines Register and many more. I was also the USA Today Network sports centerpiece designer. I've been a journalist over the past 20 years. As an undergrad, I attended Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa and studied English Literature, writing linguistics and history. Later I attended law school at Valparaiso University in Indiana. I love to read and watch classic films from the 1930s and 40s. I'm an astrophotographer and concert photographer. It's an endeavor I have dedicated myself to as a promise to myself after beating cancer…
Are you letting the “things not happening NOW” take the mojo out of your dream? How do you know when to take your musical passion or hobby and turn it into your career? Drum roll please… as Matt and Joy connect with Tim Very, drummer/song-writer of the American indie rock band, Manchester Orchestra. On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Tim dives into the challenges and perks of being a professional musician. Are you a creature of habit? Can you motivate yourself? Do you dream of being on the road touring? Listen and learn about life as a drummer and don’t forget to add The Gold, Tim’s favorite song, to your playlist.
Don’t rule anything out. This episode is a must listen to for anyone exploring the next steps on their career journey. She’s a carpenter; what is your super power? Along her career journey Cathy held titles of personal trainer, police officer and phlebotomist before she discovered her skills and passion in an industry she wasn’t all too familiar with. Listen to a vibrant carpenter apprentice (also featured in “The Dirt” construction publication) boast about the day to day excitement of a new career that she couldn’t be happier or more proud to have found. Have you tried out all of the tools in YOUR toolbox?The student question on this episode comes from a curious Pleasant Valley student, Kai.As a leader in industry in the Quad Cities, St Louis and Kansas City area, Russell continues to set a growth foundation for their people and community; providing the space for women to explore careers in all functional areas, including the predominately male world of construction. Because of people focused leadership and companies such as Russell, individuals like Cathy are being given the wings to soar.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt and Joy connect with Jenny Foss, self-employed and self-titled, Job Search Strategist and Founder/CEO of jobjenny.com. Listen as Jenny talks about the path she took that led her to becoming an entrepreneur, and how it’s important to always follow your passion, but make sure you have the skills to back it up. If you’re thinking about starting your job search soon, this is the podcast to listen to! Jenny gives tips of how to create a great resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile when you’re just starting out, and advises to go beyond the obvious when searching for your dream career. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Claire from Pleasant Valley High School.
Join Matt and Melissa for this episode of A Real Piece of Work as they go on site to John Deere Davenport Works to speak with James Hotchkiss, Heath Palmer, and Abby Parsons about careers in manufacturing. If you have entertained the idea of going into the manufacturing industry, specifically welding, this podcast is for you! Hear the group talk about the High School Registered Apprenticeship Program, how you can get involved, and the immense benefits of a local manufacturing program such as this. They discuss the skills you will learn throughout the program, what educators can do to help students prepare for career success, and what day to day life looks like in the manufacturing industry. The group answers questions from educators, students, and industry professionals.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt and Joy are joined by Jenny Haag, Founder and President at RISE Design Build Integration. Jenny started her career with the Minnesota Vikings and through her many positions there, she was inspired to start her own business focused on venue construction for sports teams. She tells us some tips and tricks regarding what it takes to be a female in male dominated industries. Jenny believes that with teamwork and strong relationships, you can achieve anything. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Josie from Wahlert Catholic High School.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt & Joy talk with Davis Addy, Director of Technology at Chick-fil-A Corporate in Atlanta, GA. Growing up building computers for fun, Davis knew technology was something that interested him. Now working in the supply chain for Chick-fil-A, Davis shares the role he plays in getting inventory to restaurants. When you go to your favorite restaurant do you think about the work that goes on behind the scenes to get the cups, paper, etc. to the store? Hear all about it along with other careers at Chick-fil-A, how much money you can make, and more. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Joy’s son, Lance, from Pleasant Valley Junior High.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt & Joy speak with Alex Stuedemann, Director of Golf Course Maintenance Operations at TPC Deere Run. Alex thought he wanted to go into engineering because he enjoyed math and science, but with the guidance of his parents and college president, he realized he didn’t have a passion for it. Instead he knew he loved his job at the golf course and decided to explore a college program in horticulture. Alex ended up loving the program and found a career he is passionate about. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Isaac from Seton Catholic. Isaac is a student who hopes to take his career out on the golf course someday.
It only seems fitting to explore a unique local career that has such a tremendous impact within our community. Join Matt & Joy on this episode of A Real Piece of Work as they dive behind the scenes with Birdies for Charity Director, Micaela Booth. Did you know, Junior Achievement of the Heartland has been charity #2 with Birdies for Charity since the start?! Micaela’s inspiring advice of looking beyond the price tag may be a highlight of this episode, but listen in to hear about the skills and career path that got Micaela into this unique Quad Cities job. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Grace from Davenport West High School.
Join Matt & Joy for this episode of A Real Piece of Work as they speak with Mandi Dolson and Nic Hockenberry, both Directors of Workforce Solutions at Greater Dubuque Development. Mandi and Nic discuss how their career paths changed along the way, but led them to the careers they now love. They give advice on things they wish they had done as a high school and college student to help them on their career paths, and discuss how important it is to establish connections along the way. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Lizzie from Wahlert Catholic High School.
It’s more than just donating blood…The Impact is REALOn this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt & Joy talk with three ImpactLife employees. Pete Lux, Vice President Donor and Patient Services, Tara Dunahoo, Vice President Technical Services, and Tina Wieland, Manager of Donor Services share where they came from and how they got to be where they are today. They also discuss different roles and duties at ImpactLife. You will also hear one thing they all love about their jobs and one thing they wish they could change. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Makenzie Iams from United Township High School.
Join Matt and Joy for a very inspiring and thought provoking episode of A Real Piece of Work, as they chat with Megen DiSanto, who works in global brand trust communications at McDonald’s. Megen talks about the path she took to get to where she is in the corporate sustainability world, and how many of the jobs she previously held she felt underqualified for. She talks about the importance of having confidence in trying new career paths and how your attitude toward a position can often be much more impactful than what’s on your resume. The Junior Achievement student question comes from Ella at Bettendorf High School who asks Megen her tips on Marketing.
Join Matt and Joy for this episode of A Real Piece of Work as they speak with Allen Wright, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Hansaloy. Hansaloy may not be a company you’ve heard of, but it’s definitely a company you benefit from every day. They are the leading global manufacturer of bread slicing blades; founded and operated right here in Davenport, IA. Allen, a graduate of Pleasant Valley High School talks about how he started at the company in high school and is still there today, and most importantly, why. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Abby from Pleasant Valley High School.
Meet Silvia Malaman, site director at Bayer. On this episode of A Real Piece of Work Matt and Joy talk to Silvia about how she moved to Muscatine, Iowa just one year ago to put her chemical engineering degree in action in the agriculture industry. Silvia also shares the importance of a healthy work-life balance and to make sure you love what you do (most days) while also ensuring you never stop learning! She also talks about the different career opportunities and benefits of working for an international ag company such as Bayer. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Silvia’s daughter, Ana, from Muscatine High School.
Matt and Joy’s next guest, John Lohman, never thought he’d be a journalist and is now the Founder and Publisher of two publications including the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal. On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, John shares the path he took that led him to where he is today, and how getting fired early in his career actually gave him the motivation to become an entrepreneur. John also talks about the different journalism careers available, the skills you need for those positions, and the benefits of working in journalism. The Junior Achievement student question is from Isabel at Central DeWitt High School.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt and Joy connect with Arthur Harrison, Sr. Operations Manager at Amazon. Listen as Arthur talks about starting at Amazon as a part-time seasonal employee and in just 5 years working his way to the position he holds now. He also outlines other career opportunities within the company and the benefits of working there. Arthur talks about the culture at Amazon and how important that is when choosing an organization to work for. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Hannah from Central DeWitt High School.
Matt and Melissa talk about the aviation industry with Benjamin Leischner, executive director of the Quad Cities International Airport.
Meet Sarah Garthaus, Director of Virtual Design at IMEG Corp. On this episode of A Real Piece of Work Matt and Melissa talk to Sarah about the winding path she took to find her dream job in engineering, and how it’s okay to shift career paths and take risks to find the job you really want. Sarah also shares tips to help students who are interested in a manufacturing design career get started. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Rebekah VanHoe from Alleman Catholic High School.
On this episode of A Real Piece of Work, Matt and Melissa connect with Tom Terronez, CEO of Medix Dental and Terrostar. Tom is a true entrepreneur, starting his first business during high school and growing from there. Tom shares his passion for IT and working with clients. When asked what drives him, he shares how he loves to see the industry grow and constantly strives for the next best thing. The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Kody Weininger from North Scott High School.
Matt and Melissa’s next guest, Garry Young, grew up in the Bay Area when the internet was just taking off. Now he works for Google and helps businesses move to the cloud.
Join Matt and Melissa for this episode of A Real Piece of Work as they speak with Katie Castillo-Wilson, Founder and CEO of TapOnIt, about taking a leap of faith to become a successful entrepreneur and what led her to where she is today. Katie saw a need in the community to connect consumers to local businesses and left a good job to start a tech business at her kitchen table with no IT savvy, but a go-getter attitude. She has now grown that company in over 40 markets, raised over $5 million, and has reached hundreds of thousands of people. The Junior Achievement student question is from Payten Rascher, Pleasant Valley High School.
Brandon Nickerson shares his experience as a Registered Nurse in the Neurology/Oncology Unit at Genesis Health System. Getting his Associates Degree in Nursing at Blackhawk College in 2009, Brandon has built a successful career in helping others during their most difficult times. Receiving multiple awards in recognition of his work, Brandon shares the real benefits of his job. Join Matt and Melissa for this episode of A Real Piece of Work . The Junior Achievement student question is provided by Paige Odefey from Pleasant Valley High School. A special thank you to The Moline Foundation for connecting us with Brandon.