Discover
Getting To Work

Getting To Work
Author: NCI Works
Subscribed: 14Played: 106Subscribe
Share
Description
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/
76 Episodes
Reverse
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, 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 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/
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.