Better Together: A Work Skills Podcast

12: The Best Kept Secret No More

Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson team up with Rob Johnson to spotlight the Work Skills Foundation’s 20-year journey of creating real change—one step at a time. From breaking the “best kept secret” to tackling big topics like mental health and workplace accessibility, they share how quick action, strong partnerships, and a whole lot of heart are driving community impact in a major way. Plus, hear what’s coming up next, including fresh initiatives and their 17th annual golf outing that’s sure to make a difference on and off the course.
 
01:08 The Foundation’s Vision
03:50 Breaking the Best Kept Secret
06:02 Accessibility in the Workplace
10:02 Quick Responses to Community Needs
12:10 Impact of Immediate Support
15:20 Prioritizing Community Needs
19:06 The Unique Work Skills Experience
21:06 Celebrating Progress and Growth
23:55 Upcoming Events and Opportunities
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg
 
Wayne Media Group Links:
Website: https://waynemedia.com/
Website: https://www.speakeasynetwork.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waynemediagroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waynemediagroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/waynemediagroup/posts/?feedView=all
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WayneMediaGroup

11: New Voices, Big Plans

Julie and Stacey welcome new Work Skills Foundation board members Erika McNamara and Andrew Szewc to discuss their passion for empowering individuals through employment. Erika, an attorney, highlights the importance of community support, while Andrew, a wealth advisor, shares his excitement to chair the upcoming golf outing fundraiser. They explore Work Skills’ impact, from breaking down employment barriers to fostering confidence and independence, and look ahead to the foundation’s 20th anniversary initiatives.
 
01:20 Meet the New Board Members
02:49 The Importance of Community Connection
04:11 Andrew’s Passion for Work Skills
06:12 The Annual Golf Outing
10:12 Spotlighting Participants
12:11 Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
15:07 Creating a Welcoming Culture
19:22 Empowering Individuals Through Work
27:06 The Value of First Jobs
30:40 Board Member Responsibilities
36:05 Looking Ahead: Monthly Donor Program
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg
 
Guest Links
Andrew Szewc - Vice President - Advisor EP Wealth Advisors
Chair of Oppurtunitees Gold Outing
Ph: (810) 255-7132
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.szewc.1
 
Erika McNamara
Email: erikamcnamaralaw@gmail.com
Ph: (734) 476-0739
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikamcnamaralaw/

10: Celebrating 20 Years of Empowerment and Impact

Thought Partners Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson showcase the Foundation’s impact as they prepare to celebrate 20 years of changing lives. Work Skills programs empower individuals and foster independence.  
Learn about the transformative impact of community-driven initiatives and the importance of expanding to serve more participants.  Want to know more? Schedule your tour today!
 
00:00 Introduction to the Foundation
02:25 A Journey of Partnership
04:01 Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
05:46 Understanding the Foundation’s Role
06:35 Stories of Transformation
08:44 Community Partnerships and Their Impact
10:40 Proving the Naysayers Wrong
12:12 The Artisan Corner Program
15:05 Supporting Residential Homes
18:05 Employment Services and Accommodations
20:16 Looking Ahead to 2025
22:12 The Growth of Artisan Corner
25:37 Getting Involved with the Foundation
27:19 Fundraising and Community Support
30:05 Celebrating the 20th Anniversary
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg

09: What’s Your Favorite Color?

Julie and Stacey host Michelle Acevedo, Creative Arts Director at Artisan Corner, and volunteer Tianna Rooney to share how the program transforms lives through creativity and community. From Garrett’s inspiring journey—finding his voice and building a micro-business—to Tianna’s successful event supporting local artisans, this conversation highlights the importance of leaning into your passions when you find your place. Artisan Corner empowers individuals with barriers to become professional artists, blending art, entrepreneurship, and connection. Discover how buying art not only supports these talented individuals but also helps grow a vibrant, inclusive community.
 
01:39 Michelle’s Journey to Artisan Corner
04:11 The Growth of Artisan Corner
05:13 Defining Professional Artists
08:24 Garrett’s Transformation
18:27 Tiana’s Passion for Artisan Corner
22:46 The Importance of Community Support
29:27 The Purpose of Artisan Work
31:55 Introducing the WOW Program
34:47 Tiana’s Family and Community Engagement
37:16 The Success of the Art Walk Event
43:55 Art as a Means of Connection
47:39 Supporting Artisan Corner Through Donations
51:51 Creative Projects and Community Impact
57:29 Looking Ahead: Future Events and Initiatives
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg

08: Doing Well by Doing Good

Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson chat with Premium Vision Partners, David Snodgrass, Lake Trusts President and CEO and Rachael Kronberger-Smith, Chief of Staff, about Lake Trust's hands-on support of Work Skills. As a for-impact organization, Lake Trust believes in rolling up their sleeves and getting involved, partnering with mission-driven organizations like Work Skills to invest in the community and do well by doing good.
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg
 
Guest Links
Website: https://laketrust.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LakeTrustCreditUnion
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laketrust/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lake-trust-credit-union/
X: https://x.com/laketrust

07: The Perfect Fit

In this episode, Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson chat with Workskills Artisan Ryan Butler and his mother, Sherilyn, about Ryan’s journey with Work Skills and how he discovered his purpose. They explore the value of finding the perfect fit and the joy of watching others succeed, highlighting that there’s something for everyone at Work Skills.
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg

06: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Join hosts Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson as they chat with Dessie Johnson from Work Skills, and Jake Moyer and Nathan Skulley from the Legacy Center. Dessie, WSC Vocational Assessment Coordinator, shares her passion for optimizing people's potential and placing participants into roles where they learn more than vocational skills. Jake and Nathan discuss how the Legacy Center collaborates with Work Skills, sharing inspiring success stories and emphasizing the positive impact on both WSC participants and Legacy Center employees. Discover the importance of inclusion, socialization, and job mentorship, and how partnering with Work Skills can enrich your organization.
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg
 
Dessie Johnson - Vocational Assessment Coordinator
dessiej@wskills.com or phone 810.534.6122
 
Show Links
The Legacy Center - Michigan's Premier Indoor and Outdoor Recreational Sports Facility
 
Website: https://legacycentermichigan.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legacy_centermi/
X: https://x.com/Legacy_CenterMI?lang=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegacyCenterMichigan/

05: We Say 'Yes!'

Join hosts Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson as they chat with Todd Michael, Training Services Supervisor, about Employment Services at Work Skills. Discover how they empower individuals with barriers to gain independence and community access through employment, skill-building and support. Learn about the journey to fulfillment, fostering responsibility, and confidence, and how companies can benefit from hiring Work Skills clients. Tune in to hear how Work Skills transforms lives and promotes a sense of belonging. Schedule your visit or tour today!
 
Show Links
To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below.
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg