Work Talk is a podcast about happenings in the region’s businesses. Businesses that participate in the podcast have the opportunity to tell their story; who are they, what do they do and what do they need to be competitive? Job seekers, through listening to the podcast, have the opportunity to learn about business needs and expectations and how they might prepare to go to work for a particular business and/or in a particular industry. We recognize that the more we understand about what businesses want/need, the more likely we are to meet that need.

E41: Regional Trends in Economic Development

In this episode, you’ll hear from 2 regional economic development leaders about how they work with the Virginia Economic Development and the efforts that are underway to support and grow […]

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E40: Strengthening Our System, Inc.- Providing Quality Care and a Person Centered Approach

In this episode, you’ll learn about Strengthening Our System, Inc. (SOS) and the services that they provide for individuals with disabilities and individuals with mental health concerns. Discover the history […]

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E39: Opportunities with Blue Ridge Designs

In this episode, you’ll discover the story of Blue Ridge Designs, a Carroll County-based screen-printed apparel manufacturer. Discover the job opportunities available with Blue Ridge Designs, and the application and […]

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E38: The Virginia Road to Success Program- Increasing Self-Sufficiency, Connecting to an In-Demand Career

In this episode, you’ll hear from a guest panel about the Virginia Road to Success Program (RSVP) which focuses on helping individuals increase self-sufficiency through stable continuous employment. Discover the […]

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E37: The Virginia Economic Development Partnership- Making Virginia the Best State for Businesses, Workers and Families

Stephen Moret, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, joins the program to discuss the work that his organization is doing to advance economic growth and economic development […]

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E36: The Appalachian Regional Commission’s POWER Initiative

In this episode, you’ll learn about the POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative. The initiative targets federal resources to help communities and regions that have been […]

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E35: Update on Youth Services

In this episode, you’ll hear about youth programming available in the region. Discover eligibility requirements, services offered, and how to connect youth to educational and training opportunities to achieve their […]

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Community Awareness Podcast 8: An Update on Job Seeker Services and Programs

This community awareness podcast provides an update on available job seeker services and programs. Discover how to connect with employers during the COVID-19 pandemic, how to identify training opportunities and […]

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E34: Innovating and Changing the Perception of Individuals with Disabilities

Rick Sizemore, Media Specialist at the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and former Director of the Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center, joins the program to discuss the mission and […]

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E33: Economic Equity and the Road to Success in Virginia Program

Jenny Bolte, Deputy Director of the New River Mt. Rogers Workforce Development Board, returns to the program to provide an update about the Pathways to the American Dream grant, as […]

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