Getting To Work: Recent Episodes
NCI Works
Getting To Work is the official podcast of NCI Works. NCI Works' mission is to work hand-in-hand with business, service, government, education and non-profit organizations to enable workers to work and businesses to compete. To learn more, visit http://www.nciworks.org/
In this episode, Jonathan Overall from KRA Corporation joins the conversation to explore what it really takes to build and sustain a strong workplace culture. He shares his journey from the front lines of workforce development to leading communications for a national organization, highlighting how listening, investing in people, and living core values can shape engagement, retention, and productivity. Discover practical insights on fostering professional growth, creating harmony between work and life, and amplifying impact through authentic culture.
What do stunt work and organizational leadership have in common? In this conversation, Dr. Brian Hite- stuntman, and performance expert-returns to the program to share why “forced fun” team activities often backfire and what leaders can do instead to build genuine connection. Drawing on his unique career path and insights from psychology, he explains how to foster motivation, trust, and psychological safety, and why respecting people’s time and differences matters more than any morale event. Listeners will discover practical ways to create stronger, more cohesive teams without the awkward icebreakers or mandatory bonding games.
In this episode, we welcome Lisa Grund, Organizational Development Partner for Career Path Services, for a powerful conversation on advocating for your future self. Lisa shares her journey from high-profile corporate roles at companies like Disney and Microsoft to her current work in workforce development, and how that transition deepened her commitment to helping others navigate career uncertainty. She unpacks practical strategies for building your circle of influence, cultivating authentic professional relationships, and staying proactive in the face of change. Whether you're navigating a career shift or simply want to be more intentional about your path, this episode offers actionable insight and inspiration.
In this enlightening episode of "Getting to Work," host John Spencer welcomes back three-time guest Dr. Brian Hite, a certified mental performance consultant with a fascinating background as a stuntman turned PhD. Brian challenges conventional wisdom about performing under pressure, arguing that pressure exists not in situations but in our minds—specifically when we focus on consequences rather than present actions. Through compelling personal stories from his stunt work, Brian reveals how identical high-stakes scenarios can feel drastically different depending on where we direct our attention. Whether you're facing workplace challenges, personal obstacles, or simply want to perform better in your daily life, this conversation provides actionable strategies to eliminate pressure and create conditions for peak performance.
In this episode, discover how small businesses can compete with larger companies by offering impressive benefits packages without breaking the bank. Our guest expert reveals innovative strategies for providing comprehensive employee benefits - from health insurance and 401(k) plans to mental health support and professional development opportunities. Learn about the power of pooled resources, professional employer organizations (PEOs), and modern HR solutions that make premium benefits accessible to businesses of all sizes. Whether you're struggling to attract top talent or looking to retain your valuable team members, this episode provides practical insights into creating an attractive benefits package that rivals what the big companies offer, all while working within your budget constraints.
Ready for a fresh take on workplace culture? Join host John Spencer as he sits down with Erika Montgomery, CEO and President of Three Girls Media, Inc., for an enlightening conversation about transforming traditional work environments. From her fascinating journey as a San Francisco morning show host to becoming an award-winning CEO, Erika shares practical insights on creating a thriving virtual workplace. Learn how she implements flexible schedules, builds team connectivity through virtual celebrations, and maintains productivity while prioritizing work-life balance.
In this eye-opening episode of Getting to Work, we delve into the complex realities behind the seemingly simple advice to "just get a job." We explore the numerous barriers to employment that often go unseen, including transportation challenges in rural areas, the high cost and limited availability of childcare, hidden disabilities like anxiety and depression, and the struggle to earn a living wage. The discussion aims to dispel common myths and biases about unemployment, shedding light on the multifaceted issues that job seekers face. By examining these obstacles from various perspectives, including those of employers and workforce development professionals, the episode encourages listeners to approach the topic of employment with greater empathy, understanding, and curiosity about the underlying factors that impact an individual's ability to secure and maintain work.
In this episode of Getting to Work, host John Spencer sits down with Inez Reyes, a consultant with over 30 years of experience in corporate America. Inez shares her powerful story of advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, starting from her early days in a large New York publishing company in the late 1980s. She discusses her bold approach of going straight to the top leadership to address discrimination issues, the importance of implementing practical solutions, and the challenges faced by employees who fear retaliation. Inez also emphasizes the critical role of company leadership in setting the tone for DEI initiatives and the benefits of creating a diverse workforce.
In this episode, you'll hear from Ross Szabo, Wellness Director at Geffen Academy at UCLA and author of books on anxiety and mental health. Ross shares his powerful personal story of struggling with mental health issues from a young age, including bipolar disorder, depression, and substance abuse. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own mental health journey and family history, developing coping mechanisms and communication skills, and fostering healthy relationships. Discover the challenges businesses face in supporting employee mental health and the need for clear definitions, proactive measures, and accessible resources such as online therapy.
In this episode, we explore the landscape of rural healthcare and the challenges and opportunities faced by healthcare providers and communities in non-urban areas. We engage in a discussion with two healthcare leaders who share their perspectives on the current state of rural healthcare, the impact of technology, and the importance of collaboration and innovation in ensuring access to quality care. Tune in to hear about the ecosystem behind healthcare delivery and discover how professionals are working to adapt to the changing needs of rural populations while striving to keep communities healthy.
This impactful episode of Getting to Work features a conversation with Dianna Schuler, Business Relations Manager for BEST, Inc., as Dianna shares a personal story about living with ADHD and facing misunderstandings in educational and workplace settings. Discover practical ways employers can create more welcoming, inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, allowing them to thrive by embracing their unique talents.
This episode explores the topic of neurodiversity, specifically as it applies to the workplace. Discover key terms like neurodivergence and neurodiversity and what it means to be neurodivergent. You'll also hear about practical implications for employers, recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and supporting neurodivergent employees. Tune in to gain a better understanding of neurodiversity and actionable steps to make their workplaces more inclusive.
This episode features an interview with Tory Davis and Jane Verplaetse from the Illinois Department of Employment Security as they discuss the WorkShare program. They explain how the program allows employers to reduce employee hours by 20-60% while retaining staff and providing partial unemployment benefits, enabling businesses to navigate economic downturns without laying off their skilled workforce. They also outline the program benefits, eligibility, and the enrollment process.
Tune in for a conversation with workforce consultant Dawn Karber as she discusses developing a culture of innovation within organizations. Dawn reveals why innovation matters for both employees and the company, common obstacles like risk aversion and resistance to change, and practical tips for fostering innovation. She also shares an inspiring story of veteran employees feeling empowered and argues that innovation stems from an inclusive process focused on end-user needs rather than constraints.
This episode features a conversation with entrepreneur coach Kim Ades as she provides insights on identifying limiting blind spots, taking responsibility for thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and pivoting focus to move in the right direction. Kim shares practical tips on overcoming common struggles like isolation and self-criticism. Discover how to unlock your potential through self-coaching.
This episode features a conversation with Tory Davis and Chris Burton from the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Chris shares his personal transition from military service to his role guiding fellow veterans toward fulfilling civilian careers. Discover services available to connect active duty military personnel to civilian employment and the comprehensive scope of services available to employers and veterans.
This episode features a conversation with Dr. Kristen Allott as she discusses some important but often overlooked aspects of self-care that can significantly impact our well-being. Discover how maintaining a balanced approach to nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management can lead to improved mental and physical health. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or fatigue, Dr. Allott's practical advice provides a roadmap to feeling better and achieving optimal brain function.
Leading speaker and New York Times bestselling author, Chris Widener, joins the program to discuss the importance of personal accountability. Chris shares his own success story and takeaways for anyone looking to improve their personal and professional situation. He also shares actionable tips for how to motivate others to take responsibility and create positive change.
Josh Davies, CEO of The Center for Work Ethic Development, joins the program to discuss the importance of developing your work ethic. He discusses how employers can help employees develop their work ethic and whether there are generational differences in work ethic. Discover what leaders can do to help develop a strong work ethic in their workforce.
Dr. Brian Hite, Founder and CEO of Begin Again Performance Psychology, returns to the program to discuss workplace culture and how to create a culture that helps employees to do their best work. Dr. Hite reveals how to get employee buy-in for organizational values and how leaders can reinforce those values at every level. Discover the connection between workplace culture and retention and the connection between psychological needs and organizational culture. To learn more about Dr. Hite, visit: https://beginagainperformancepsychology.com/
Susan Mason Co-founder and Executive Director of What’s Next Washington, joins the program to share her own story of the employment challenges she has faced after being incarcerated and the work that her organization does to improve the ability of people with conviction histories to reintegrate into society and achieve long-term economic stability. Discover some of the most common challenges that justice-involved individuals face when seeking employment, and why employers need to tap into this often-overlooked talent pool. For more information, visit: https://www.whatsnextwashington.org/
Shane Foss, Founder and CEO of Hooray Health, joins the program to discuss the challenges that organizations and individuals are facing when it comes to getting affordable healthcare. Shane provides an overview of his organization and the work that they do providing limited essential accident and sickness coverage. Discover innovative solutions to rising healthcare costs and a user-friendly solution to extending affordable access to healthcare.
This episode features the return of coach, consultant, and author Oreste J. D’Aversa as he discusses the importance of mindfulness at work and the need to reevaluate how we conduct business in the workplace. Oreste shares tips for helping employees who have been working from home to acclimate to returning to the office and the impact that the pandemic has had on many workers. Discover the importance for workers of being mindful of the bigger picture when it comes to their role within an organization and how to blend virtual and in-person communications.
This episode features an interview with Patricia Schou, Executive Director of the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network. Patricia reveals the healthcare challenges facing rural communities and the efforts that are underway to increase healthcare capacity in underserved areas. Discover the importance of a robust healthcare system for the overall health of rural communities.
Jennifer Brown, author, speaker, and founder of Jennifer Brown Consulting, joins the program to reveal how businesses can create a culture of inclusion. Jennifer discusses the phenomenon of "microaggressions" in the workplace and how our interactions at work can inadvertently create conditions that drive employees out of the workplace. Discover how to create a workplace culture where everyone feels accepted and included. To learn more about Jennifer, visit https://jenniferbrownspeaks.com/
Dr. Brian Hite, Founder and CEO of Begin Again Performance Psychology, joins the program to discuss how leaders and employees can perform at their best. Dr. Hite reveals a different way to think about motivation and the limitations of a reward and punishment approach to motivation. Dr. Hite also discusses his work as a stuntman and some of the projects that he's worked on. To learn more about Dr. Hite, visit: https://beginagainperformancepsychology.com/
In this episode, you'll learn about The Illinois Department of Human Services and the variety of services that they provide to individuals and families in need of support. Discover how to access services from IDHS including medical benefits, cash assistance, and more.
Author and speaker Judy Balloff joins the program to share tips about how to retain and grow employees. You won't want to miss Judy's amazing story of overcoming serious health issues and starting a new career in her 60's!
This episode features an interview with coach, consultant and author Oreste J. D’Aversa as he discusses the phenomenon of "quiet quitting" and "quiet firing." Discover what these terms mean, the problems that they create in the workplace and how address them. Oreste also shares advice for employers and employees about how to create win/win relationships at work.
In this episode, you'll hear about the efforts underway to close the digital divide in rural areas. Discover the growing importance of reliable connectivity for all areas of life, including education, telemedicine and flexible work. You'll also learn about digital equity and how people who live in rural areas can access financial assistance to help them secure reliable broadband connectivity.
In this episode, you'll hear about the efforts underway to close the digital divide in rural areas. Discover the growing importance of reliable connectivity for all areas of life, including education, telemedicine and flexible work. You'll also learn about digital equity and how people who live in rural areas can access financial assistance to help them secure reliable broadband connectivity.
In this episode, you'll discover dependable and affordable transportation options for those living in rural areas. Discover the difference between rural and urban models of public transportation, and some of the most common challenges facing transportation providers. You'll also hear about some of the biggest misconceptions that potential riders often have about rural public transportation.
In this episode, you'll discover dependable and affordable transportation options for those living in rural areas. Discover the difference between rural and urban models of public transportation, and some of the most common challenges facing transportation providers. You'll also hear about some of the biggest misconceptions that potential riders often have about rural public transportation.
In this episode, you'll learn about the Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) and how they advocate for the dignity and rights of people with disabilities and their families. Discover the number of individuals served by IVCIL, and how to become a paid caregiver.
In this episode, you'll learn about the field of commercial truck driving and how to obtain your CDL (Commercial Driver's License). Discover why truck driving is in great demand and hear details about The Truck Driver Training Program at IVCC, which combines classroom presentation and hands-on experience that leads to a Class A commercial driver's license
In this episode, you'll learn about the Veterans Assistance Commission and the services that they offer to support veterans. Discover some of the most common needs that veterans have, including getting connected to VA healthcare and determining a compensation percentage.
In this episode, you'll discover the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for any organization, and how creating a strong, inclusive work culture can help with recruitment and retention. Discover the range of diversity traits and how many elements of diversity can be "below the waterline" and not necessarily visible to others.
In this episode, you'll discover how The Illinois National Guard can be a supplement to college or trade school, and the variety of careers available within the Illinois National Guard. You'll hear details about the enlistment process and how joining the Illinois National Guard can help you with virtually any career goals.
Chris Connors, Regional Economic Development Manager for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, returns to the program to discuss various economic development incentives available for businesses in the region. Discover a variety of programs, from training grants to financing for small businesses.
This episode features an interview with Chris Connors, Regional Economic Development Manager for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Discover resources available to help businesses impacted by COVID to recover and efforts dedicated to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.
This episode features an interview with Dr. Daniel Farrell, from Ottawa Chiropractic, as he discusses the details of his career journey and provides an overview of how people can benefit from chiropractic services. Dr. Farrell also reveals the pathway to become a chiropractor and advice for anyone considering a career in chiropractic.
In this episode, you'll learn about Streator Unlimited, Inc and the services that they provide to assist individuals with disabilities in finding employment. You'll also discover details about an epilepsy support group as well as some of the misconceptions that employers often have about people with disabilities.
Dr. Matt Seaton, VP of Business Services and Finance at Valley Community College, returns to the program to discuss career pathways in education. Discover a variety of opportunities to make a good living in the education field, both working within a school system and also supporting the education system. Discover some of the most in-demand jobs in education.
This episode features a conversation with Dr. Matt Seaton, VP of Business Services and Finance at Valley Community College as he discusses his career journey and how he came to his current job. Discover how Valley Community College is preparing learners for in-demand careers and some of the unique benefits of a community college education.
In this episode you'll learn about how F.N. Smith is using apprenticeships to build their talent pipeline, which has allowed them to meet their labor needs, even during the "Great Resignation."
Casey Harmon, Technical Support Lead at Computer Spa, LLC, joins the program to discuss the importance of cybersecurity for businesses and organizations and reveals tips for protecting your network against cyber threats. Discover some of the most common forms of cyberattacks and how to protect against them.
In this episode you'll hear about Ace Hardware Retail Support Centers, the challenges that they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they've met those challenges. Discover the efforts that Ace Hardware is making to onboard new staff and their talent acquisition strategy.
What do we need to consider as businesses reopen and employees begin to head back to the workplace? In this episode, you'll hear about the importance of managing realistic expectations for work, why employers and job seekers need to come together for the good of the regional economy, and why in-person contact is essential for certain jobs.
In this episode, you'll hear about some of the challenges and opportunities that job seekers and businesses are facing at this time, and hear details about two upcoming drive-thru job fairs. Discover how to attend the job fairs and how businesses can get involved.
If you are currently out of the labor market, you'll discover in this episode why now is the perfect time to get back to work. You'll hear tips for creating a winning resume, what to include in a cover letter, and how to access additional support for your job search.
In this episode, you’ll hear from Joel Torbeck, program manager for BEST and Sara Escatel, Director of Adult Education at Illinois Valley Community College, as they discuss how business owners can find talent and how job seekers can get the training they need to find better paying jobs. Discover scholarships and grants available for training and an overview of the services available through the One-Stop system.
Lissa Olson, Outreach Coordinator/Veterans Service Officer at LaSalle County Veterans Assistance Commission, joins the program to discuss the various services that are available to help veterans, and how they partner with other organizations to ensure that veterans get the help that they need. Discover the variety of challenges that veterans face, and what veterans should consider when being offered services.
In this episode, you'll hear from an apprenticeship navigator as she discusses some of the biggest misconceptions that people have about apprenticeships, and the various industries that are using apprenticeships to develop their talent pipeline. Discover the structure of an apprenticeship program and how employers can use apprenticeships to upskill existing employees.
Tune in for a conversation between Dianna Schuler, Business Relations Manager for BEST, Inc., and John Spencer, President & General Manager of Starved Rock Media and NCI Works Board Member. Discover how NCI Works functions as an ambassador for area businesses and provides oversight for local agencies that fall under the umbrella of the publicly-funded workforce system. Learn about the composition of the board and the various industries that are represented.
In this episode, you’ll hear from 2 COVID-19 response specialists, Cole Horner and Elisabeth Benham, as they discuss the resources that are available to help businesses and municipalities that were impacted by the pandemic. Cole and Elisabeth share some of the promising signs that they are seeing in terms of potential future funding, and how businesses and municipalities can access their services at no-cost.
Luke Tomsha, Founder and Executive Director of the Perfectly Flawed Foundation, joins the program to discuss his own journey of recovery from addiction and how he came to found his organization. Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem of addiction, and what employers need to keep in mind if they have suspect that an employee has an addiction. Luke also reveals why employers should hire individuals in recovery.
This episode features an interview with Patrick Basler, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Illinois Credit Union League. Patrick reveals how he became involved in the credit union movement, and the difference between a credit union and a traditional bank. You'll hear stories about how credit unions have helped businesses and individuals weather the disruption created by the COVID-19 pandemic, and learn about the technological innovation happening in the industry.
In this episode you'll hear about how essential businesses are coping and thriving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover tips for ensuring employee health and safety, and the mindset that it takes to succeed in challenging times.
As we now head into the 7th month of the COVID-19 pandemic, what has changed and what are the current challenges and opportunities? In this episode you'll hear a medical and mental health perspective and update about the pandemic, and what we've learned so far.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of disruption, however, there are still many opportunities available. Dianna Schuler and Joel Torbeck from BEST, Inc. join the program to discuss the resources that are available for job seekers who want to improve their skills, and employers who are looking for talent.
Kris Noble, Executive Director of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce joins the program to discuss some of the resources that are available for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jessica Burrows, LCPC, a mental health counselor with Sinnissippi Centers, joins the program to discuss how to take care of your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover tips for staying emotionally well and coping with stress.
In this special episode of Getting To Work, you'll receive updates about services available, including how to access trainings and job classes. Discover employers who are looking to hire at this time, and how to find out more information.
In this episode, you'll hear from the Opiate Grant Coordinator for BEST, Inc., as she discusses the work that is being done to help individuals impacted by the opiate crisis to find meaningful employment. Discover who is eligible, the challenges and opportunities involved, and the crucial role of businesses and employers.
In this episode, you'll hear from Joyce Doyle, finance manager for the Coloma Township Park District, as she shares her experience as a participant in the workforce system. Joyce reveals how NCI Works helped her to obtain training that she needed to advance her career.
In this episode, you'll learn about Horizon House of Illinois Valley and the services that they provide for persons with disabilities. Discover how Horizon House is helping its residents get jobs in the community, and the benefits of employment for both workers and businesses.
Emily Legel, Executive Director at the Northwest Illinois Economic Development Group, joins the program to discuss the efforts that they are making to boost their regional economy, and what makes Northwest Illinois a great place to work and live. She also shares tips for both job seekers and business owners.
Dianna Schuler, Business Relations Manager at BEST, Inc., joins the program to discuss the benefits of apprenticeship programs for employers and for regional economic development. She reveals how apprenticeships can be a powerful tool to attract, recruit and retain quality talent, and how employers can learn more about how to start their own apprenticeship program.
Pam Furlan, Executive Director of BEST, Inc., joins the program to discuss a new grant that is dedicated to helping people in recovery from opioid addiction return to the workforce. Pam reveals the details of the grant, some of the data about the cost of addiction in the workplace, and the stakeholders and partners who will be involved.
In this episode you'll hear about the truck driver training offered through Illinois Valley Community College. You'll learn about the opportunities that exist, as well as industry trends. Discover the diverse range of people who are becoming truck drivers, and the various types of jobs that are available.
In this episode, you'll discover what it takes to pursue a career as a certified medical assistant (CMA). Learn about the certification requirements, how to get licensed and the salary range for CMA's. You'll also hear about a new program that can help you become a CMA.
In this episode, you'll hear from Sara Escatel, Director of Adult Education at Illinois Valley Community College, as she describes the range of services that they offer. She also shares success stories and the benefits of adult education services for job seekers and employers.
This episode features an interview with Jennifer Scheri, Director of Continuing Education and Business Services at Illinois Valley Community College. Jennifer reveals the biggest challenges that employers face, and how the college serves as a resource for employers and job seekers. She also discusses the types of trainings that are available and how they are upskilling workers.
Justin Wiggins, owner of Wiggins Computing, LLC, joins the program to discuss how he created a successful computer and IT company at a young age and the experiences that shaped him along the way. He also shares tips for success for anyone thinking about starting their own company.
In this episode you'll learn about the business services team. Discover how they offer customized candidate recruitments, skill development and training and many other programs that offer solutions to employers and job seekers.
In this episode, you'll hear from the Tourism Director at the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center, as she discusses the job opportunities available in the tourism and hospitality industry, the qualities that Starved Rock looks for in applicants, and tips for getting started in a career in this industry.
In this episode you'll hear from 2 managers from Illinois Business Services about how to find a job in the state of Illinois. Discover how to access job opportunities both in the public and private sector.
This episode features an interview with Gary Kistenfeger as he discusses his journey of becoming a physical therapist, and the challenges and benefits of the profession. Discover tips for breaking into this rewarding career.
In this episode, you'll learn about Silver Creek Farms, an aquaponics farm producing a few different varieties of lettuce on a year round basis. Discover how they use tilapia and bluegill in order to produce the nutrients to feed the plants, without using chemicals of any kind in their operation.
Riley Hintzsche from Streator Township High School joins the program to discuss the technological changes in agriculture, as well as the various jobs and careers that exist within the industry.
In this episode, you'll hear about a special project that Workforce Enterprise Services is doing for NCI Works to help build a talent pipeline and labor force that is ready for the economy of the future.
Patty Head, controller at F.N. Smith Corporation, joins the program to discuss how her company recruits new talent, and what qualities they look for in job applicants. She reveals some of the misconceptions and realities about jobs in advanced manufacturing, and how to transition into a career in manufacturing.
Amy Strawn from Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center joins the program to discuss common mistakes to avoid that keep job seekers from getting that second job, and what qualities she looks for in applicants. She also shares tips for employers about how to attract job seekers.
Linda Burt, Vice President of Quality and Community Services at St. Margaret's Health in Spring Valley, IL and co-chair for NCI Works, joins the program to discuss the changes in the healthcare profession that she has seen in her over 40 years of experience. She also reveals the career opportunities and pathways that exist within the healthcare field.
Joel Torbeck from BEST, Inc., joins the program to discuss what job seekers should consider when looking for a new opportunity, why this is a great time to be a job seeker, and resources that can help in finding the job of your dreams.