North Coast Careers: Lake County's Workforce Beacon

Hosted by Lake County Board of Commissioners

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Mar 2026

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About the show

Welcome to North Coast Careers: Lake County's Workforce Beacon., the podcast where information and inspiration will be provided through workforce issues, career services, and local jobs to the people on Ohio's North Coast.

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46 recent

March 23, 202612 min

E46: The Work Continues: A Final Reflection on North Coast Careers

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" data-turn-id="13ab3412-c9a0-447c-a266-ce1f93b65fa4" data-testid="conversation-turn-3" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:e1afceec-d60b-4e23-90fe-f2f8df34e62c-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this final episode of North Coast Careers, we reflect on a powerful journey of connection, collaboration, and community impact across Ohio's North Coast. Over the past four years, we've explored how workforce development goes far beyond job placement, it's about creating access, building partnerships, and supporting the whole person. From veteran services and modern manufacturing to work based learning, small business growth, and breaking down barriers like transportation and wellness challenges, this episode brings together the key insights that have shaped our region's evolving workforce. As the series comes to a close, one message remains clear: this work doesn't end here. The future of our workforce will continue to be built through shared commitment, innovation, and opportunity for all.

February 9, 202615 min

E45: Resume Reset, Part Two: Strategy, Visibility, and Getting Interviews

In Part Two of this two-part series, you'll move beyond rebuilding your resume and learn how to turn it into real momentum in your job search. This episode focuses on what happens after the foundation is set—how to make your resume stand out to hiring managers, navigate online applications and applicant tracking systems, use keywords effectively, and address gaps or career changes with confidence and strategy. You'll discover how your resume fits into a complete job search approach alongside online profiles, referrals, and interviews, and how to position your experience honestly without oversharing or selling yourself short. If you're ready to stop submitting resumes into the void and start getting interviews, this episode shows you how to make your resume work for you.

January 30, 202616 min

E44: Resume Reset, Part One: Rebuilding Your Job Search from the Ground Up

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in your job search? This episode kicks off part one of a two-part series designed to help you reset your resume from the ground up. You'll discover why resumes often become a barrier rather than a bridge, how mindset and clarity shape a successful job search, and how to reconnect with the skills, experiences, and strengths you already have—whether you're navigating a layoff, career change, long employment gap, or reentry into the workforce. This first installment focuses on rebuilding the foundation: identifying transferable skills, clarifying career direction, and creating a resume that reflects where you're going, not just where you've been.

December 23, 202512 min

E43: End-of-Year Leadership: How to Support Employees Through the Holiday Crunch

As the year comes to a close, the holiday season brings both celebration and strain into the workplace. In this episode, we explore how leaders can keep employees engaged, productive, and supported during one of the most challenging times of the year. From setting clear priorities and building flexible structures to recognizing contributions and addressing burnout, this conversation offers actionable strategies rooted in empathy, clarity, and strong organizational culture. Whether you're a manager, HR professional, or organizational leader, you'll come away with practical ways to reduce stress, strengthen morale, and finish the year strong—without sacrificing people or performance.

November 14, 202518 min

E42: Opening Doors: How Ohio Supports Job Seekers with Disabilities

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Disability Awareness Month and explore how Ohio Means Jobs, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, and local community partners work together to support job seekers of all abilities. Listeners will learn about accessible online tools, individualized career services, inclusive hiring events, employer incentives, and the powerful impact of collaborative workforce programs. Whether you're a job seeker, employer, or advocate, this conversation offers practical guidance on how to promote inclusion, remove barriers, and help every Ohioan access meaningful career opportunities.

October 2, 202520 min

E41: Gen Z at Work: Redefining Purpose, Pay, and Productivity

In this episode we explore how Generation Z is transforming the workplace by redefining what matters most—purpose, pay, and productivity. Gen Z isn't just looking for a paycheck; they're seeking alignment with values, fair compensation, flexibility, and meaningful impact in their careers. We break down how their expectations are reshaping recruitment, culture, and leadership, while also challenging employers to embrace transparency, balance, and innovation. Tune in to discover how Gen Z's bold approach is not only driving change for themselves but creating a more sustainable and people-centered workplace for everyone.

September 5, 202530 min

E40: Skills vs. Degrees: Rethinking the Future of Hiring

In today's episode, discover why the old debate of skills versus degrees matters more than ever in shaping your career and the workforce of tomorrow. You'll learn how employers are rethinking traditional requirements, why soft skills like communication and problem-solving are becoming essential, and how alternative pathways such as certifications and micro-credentials can open doors to meaningful opportunities. Whether you're a student, a job seeker, or a professional considering your next move, this conversation will help you understand how to showcase your value and stay future-ready in a rapidly changing economy.

July 29, 202527 min

E39: Bridging the Soft Skills Gap: Why Communication Still Matters

In this episode, you'll learn why soft skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability matter more now than ever. Discover how the rise of technology and remote work is making authentic connection harder and why that's a challenge for both job seekers and employers. You'll hear real-world examples of communication breakdowns, tips for making a strong first impression, and practical ways to improve your soft skills through mentorship, networking, and follow up. Whether you are just starting out or helping others grow their careers, this episode will help you stand out by building the human skills that truly make a difference.

June 2, 202525 min

E38: Career Transitions 101: Tools, Tactics, and Local Resources for Ohioans

Thinking about changing careers? You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out on your own. In this episode, we dive into what it really means to navigate a career transition in today's fast-moving job market. From the rise of AI and clean energy to the growing importance of short-term credentials and personal branding, you'll hear how the modern career path is less a ladder and more a jungle gym. Join host Matt Myers and guest Amy Howell from OhioMeansJobs Lake County as they break down how to overcome self-doubt, embrace a learning mindset, and take practical steps toward a more fulfilling and future-ready career.

April 11, 202521 min

E37: The Transformative Impact of Second Chance Hiring: Reentry Hiring Insights

In this episode, you'll discover how second chance hiring can create real change—for individuals rebuilding their lives and for the communities they're rejoining. You'll hear about the challenges that justice-impacted individuals face when trying to find stable employment, and the role you can play in removing those barriers. Whether you're an employer, job seeker, or someone who simply cares about giving people a fair shot, you'll learn about local programs, support networks, and resources like tax credits and federal bonding that make second chance hiring both practical and impactful.