Talent Magnet

Hosted by Talent Magnet

Business Education

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May 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Talent Magnet- brought to you by Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, the podcast where we help businesses become talent magnets by focusing on recruitment, training, and retention best practices. Your host is Michele Winn from the Thurston County Chamber's Workforce Division.

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46 recent

May 8, 202621 min

E46: Building the Hospitality Talent Pipeline: What Employers Need to Know

In this episode, we are joined by David Faro, Senior Manager of Workforce and Business Development at the National Restaurant Association, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a powerful engine for career growth and long-term workforce stability. David shares his own journey from dishwasher to industry leader and explains why hospitality career pathways are often as unique as the individuals who pursue them. The conversation highlights key workforce development strategies including apprenticeships, inclusive hiring (including neurodiverse talent), digital literacy, and the direct connection between workplace culture and retention. You'll also hear how industry associations and workforce boards can collaborate to build scalable talent pipelines that strengthen both local communities and the hospitality sector nationwide.

May 4, 202627 min

E45: Building the Workforce of Tomorrow Through Apprenticeship

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we explore how apprenticeship is redefining the path from education to employment—and why it may be one of the most effective solutions to today's workforce challenges. Joined by leaders from AJAC, a nonprofit workforce development organization that partners with employers to deliver paid, on-the-job training and related classroom education, we unpack how this model helps individuals launch meaningful careers without the burden of student debt while giving employers access to reliable, skilled talent. From addressing the growing gap in advanced manufacturing to creating accessible, "earn while you learn" pathways for people at all stages, this conversation highlights a powerful win-win for workers, businesses, and communities alike.

May 1, 202617 min

E44: The New Talent Strategy: Why Mental Health Support Drives Retention

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we're joined by Dr. Tara Deliberto to explore how forward-thinking businesses are reimagining mental health support as a key driver of retention, engagement, and long-term success. Dr. Deliberto shares her journey to Yuna and offers insight into why traditional benefits often fall short in meeting employees' day-to-day needs. Discover how AI-powered tools are emerging as a scalable, accessible layer of support—helping employees manage stress before it escalates, while giving employers a powerful new way to reduce burnout and strengthen loyalty. We also dive into what responsible implementation looks like, including privacy, ethics, and clinical safeguards, and what businesses should be considering now as AI becomes an increasingly important part of the benefits landscape.

March 13, 202527 min

E43: Inside the Cybersecurity Playbook: Defending Your Business in the Digital Age

In this episode we are joined by John Hansman, CEO and President of Truit, to discuss the critical and evolving role of cybersecurity in today's business landscape. John shares eye-opening insights into how cyber threats have intensified in recent years—especially for small and medium-sized businesses—and explains why cybersecurity is no longer just about technology, but also about policy, education, and company culture. From understanding the difference between a breach and a compromise to the impact of phishing attacks and the importance of proactive planning, this episode offers actionable guidance for business owners at every stage. Listeners will also learn how gamified employee training and layered security strategies can make protecting company data both effective and engaging.

March 10, 202520 min

E42: From Stress to Strength: Building a Culture of Wellness at Work

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we are joined by wellness consultant and dance therapist Maia O'Brien for a thoughtful conversation on burnout prevention and cultivating wellness in the workplace. Drawing on her diverse background in creative arts therapy, physical therapy, and community education, Maia shares insights into the mind-body-spirit connection, the power of self-awareness, and the role of creativity in healing. The discussion explores practical strategies for employees and employers alike, from building supportive work cultures to adopting flexible schedules and fostering emotional well-being. Whether you're a professional feeling stretched thin or a leader seeking to support your team, this episode offers actionable guidance for sustainable health at work.

July 31, 202421 min

E41: Cultivating Inclusion: Empowering Neurodiverse Talent

In this episode of Talent Magnet, we Michelle Whitlow, Executive Director of the Lewis County Autism Coalition. Michelle discusses the organization's mission to enhance resources and opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities in Lewis County and surrounding areas. She also shares insights on the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in employment, including misconceptions about their capabilities, and highlights the coalition's efforts to promote workplace inclusion. Discover the importance of education, training, and open communication in creating an inclusive work environment

July 4, 202423 min

E40: Revolutionizing HR: Small Business Solutions with Insperity

This episode of Talent Magnet features a conversation with Jessica Dunson, Business Performance Advisor at Insperity. Jessica discusses employee benefits and HR challenges for small and medium-sized businesses. She also explains how Insperity, as a Professional Employer Organization, helps businesses compete for talent with benefits packages, HR support, and risk management. This episode provides insights for business owners looking to improve HR practices and create an attractive workplace for employees.

July 1, 202416 min

E39: Flexibility as a Talent Magnet: Lessons from Three Girls Media's CEO

In this episode, we are joined by Erika Taylor Montgomery, CEO and President of Three Girls Media, Inc. Erika discusses the crucial topic of work-life balance and how she has made it a cornerstone of her company's culture. She also shares her journey of founding Three Girls Media nearly 19 years ago to achieve better work-life balance, and discusses her implementation of flexible schedules and remote work policies. The conversation delves into the benefits of this approach, including increased employee satisfaction and productivity, as well as how it helps smaller companies compete for talent. Erika also offers valuable advice for organizations looking to improve work-life balance and shares creative strategies for maintaining team cohesion in a remote work environment.

January 12, 202424 min

E38: Making Your Business More Neurodiverse: Practical Tips for Attraction and Retention

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug Foresta interviews Katie McMurray, founder and CEO of Sensory Tool House LLC, about the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. They discuss practical tips for attracting and retaining neurodivergent talent, like crafting inclusive job postings, allowing interview accommodations, using direct communication, and providing sensory-friendly workspaces. Katie explains how neurodiverse employees lead to increased innovation, productivity, and retention if properly supported. She emphasizes that small adjustments to company culture and communication can make work accessible for all cognitive styles. Whether you're an employer looking to widen your talent pool or an employee seeking accommodations, this episode will leave you inspired to create a more neuroinclusive work environment.

October 25, 202316 min

E37: From "Sick on Sunday" to Excited for Monday: Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture

This episode features a discussion with Brittinay Lenhart, founder of Work Culture Consultant LLC, about the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and connectedness in building a positive organizational culture. Brittinay provides practical advice for business leaders on fostering morale, productivity, and retention through prioritizing employees' well-being. Tune in to gain actionable strategies for attracting top talent by developing a supportive workplace culture.