Talent Magnet

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.        

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.

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 

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.

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.

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.

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.

Welcome to Talent Magnet, where we explore the latest trends and insights in talent development. In this episode, we're joined by Marianne Judd, Member Investment Project Coordinator, to discuss an important topic: Digital Literacy. Digital equity and literacy are more critical than ever in today's technology-driven world. So, what exactly do these terms mean? Digital equity refers to the availability of digital tools, resources, and access to technology to all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or location. It's about ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in the digital world. Digital literacy, on the other hand, is the ability to effectively use digital tools and technology to communicate, create, and collaborate. It's not just about knowing how to use a computer or a smartphone; it's about understanding how to navigate and make sense of the vast amount of information available online. In our conversation with Marianne Judd, she shares her insights on the i

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Holly Smith with L&I’s Workers’ Compensation Determinations Unit. She answers the question “What is an employee?” and explains what that determination can mean for businesses. With questions, reach out to the L&I Small Business Office at SmallBusiness@Lni.wa.gov or 1-800-987-0145.

In this episode of Talent Magnet, host Doug introduces the topic of military transition and the challenges that transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face. Our guest Andrew Garate, Senior Director of Military Transition Programs and Strategic Initiatives at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce. In this interview, we'll learn the following *Andrew's role at the Thurston County Chamber and the Chamber's mission to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses. *Andrew will share some of the programs and initiatives that the Chamber offers to support the military community. *The two discuss some of the challenges that transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face and how the Chamber helps address those challenges. Thank you, Andrew for joining the conversation and sharing valuable insights! Learn more about the Thurston County Chamber here: https://thurstonchamber.com

On this episode of Talent Magnet, we speak with Mike Reid, Economic Development Director for the City of Olympia, about the Olympia Career Hub and the benefit it brings to Olympia residents. You can find out more about the Career Hub at https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaCaree... or on the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce website at https://thurstonchamber.com/olympia-c...

In this episode of Talent Magnet, Christina Evans with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, joins the program to speak about the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act, as well as at-will employment and what that means for both employers and employees. Talent Magnet is 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. Each episode is filled with a variety of information and interviews with experts in the workforce. Learn more about Talent Magnet here https://thurstonchamber.com/workforce...

Ty Reed, Founder of Recovery Career Services, joins the program to share his own recovery story and reveal the business case for why organizations should hire people in recovery. Ty discusses the benefits of second chance employment and why employment is so crucial for individuals in recovery. You'll also hear about how businesses can assess risk when it comes to hiring. For more information, visit https://www.recoveryandwork.org/ 

Yesenia Sabedra, Risk Management Consultant with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, joins the program to discuss L&I's risk management consultation program, and the benefits to businesses of working with an L&I risk management consultant. Discover the 5 areas of best practice.  For questions or to request a risk management consultation please contact Bobbie Hanna at 360-870-2269 or hacq235@lni.wa.gov. 

Rick Means, Director of Safety and Education with the Washington Retail Association, joins the program to discuss the launch of the new safety app SAFEME, which provides Washington area businesses with free safety and accident prevention training. Hear success stories and discover how SAFEME can help businesses save money, increase productivity, and create a safer work environment. For more information, visit: https://wrasafeme.org/

Erica Minton, L&I Industrial Hygiene Consultant, joins the program to discuss some of the key takeaways that all Washington State businesses should know in relation to COVID-19 requirements. Discover resources to find out the most current information and updates on COVID-19 related requirements, and the biggest challenges that businesses are facing when it comes to COVID-19 compliance.  To learn more, visit the below links:  https://lni.wa.gov/agency/outreach/coronavirus-covid-19-worker-face-covering-and-mask-requirements-questions  https://lni.wa.gov/safety-health/preventing-injuries-illnesses/request-consultation/    http://wisha-training.lni.wa.gov/training/articulate/maskselection/story.html  https://www.governor.wa.gov/   www.findyourphasewa.org https://www.coronavirus.wa.gov/  

In this episode you'll hear from Lou Flores, statewide consultation manager for the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) for the state of Washington, as well as Jim Lawrence, Region Four consultation manager, and Lindsey Unruh, Region Four Industrial Hygiene Supervisor, as they discuss the DOSH consultation program. Discover how DOSH can help businesses with their goals of creating a safe and healthy workplace by conducting a free, onsite consultation to find and fix workplace hazards.  Call a consultant near you or email DOSHConsultation@Lni.wa.gov to schedule any of the following services  •       David Conley – Region 1 Consultation Manager (425) 290-1369 CODA235@lni.wa.gov  •       Scott Reiquam-Region 2 Consultation Manager (206) 348-0809 REIU235@lni.wa.gov  •       Brian Sahli-Region 3 Consultation Manager (235) 596-3917 SAHB235@lni.wa.gov  •       Jim Lawrence-Region 4 Consultation Manager(360) 575-6951 LAWO235@lni.wa.gov  •       John McFadden-Regions 5&6 Consultation Manager (509) 8

Andrew Houghton, founder and president of Disability Inclusion Solutions, joins the program to discuss what businesses need to consider in order to recruit and retain people with disabilities. Andrew reveals his own journey of being a wheelchair user since a 1986 motorcycle accident, and how he has been able to enjoy sports, the outdoors and create a media production company. Discover helpful resources for preparing your organization to hire individuals with disabilities. 

Jason Van Camp, decorated Green Beret, author of Deliberate Discomfort, and Founder and Chairman of Mission Six Zero, joins the program to discuss his Total Warrior Model, training that helps translate individual performance to team outcomes for business, as well as his NFL team clients. We also discuss the work that his non-profit Warrior Rising is doing to help veteran entrepreneurs (or "vetrepreneurs") start or accelerate their businesses. Jason reveals the challenges and opportunities that veterans face when they transition out of military life and shares tips for success.  https://missionsixzero.com/ https://www.warriorrising.org/

Sytease Geib, former co-host of Talent Magnet and VP of Workforce Development at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, joins the program to discuss creative ways to retain talent, and the changing nature of work. Sytease discusses her own journey of moving across the country after the birth of her second child, how she has continued to do some remote project based work, and shares takeaways from her experience. Discover ideas for how employers can support their workers while they may be working from home, and how to balance work and family obligations.