Shows
EmpowerEDEmpowerED E11: Kristen Hardnett—From Stuck to SalariedKristen felt stuck in a low paying job, and as she watched her autistic son excel in school, she knew she wanted to be shining example to him. Discover how adult ed helped Kristen turn her life around and provide a salaried position that gives her and her son everything they need and more.
2026-01-2305 min
COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast Toolbox E3: How to Talk Workforce Without Losing Your MessageWhen we talk about adult education, it’s easy to focus on confidence, community, and personal growth—but in workforce conversations, we also need to speak the language of skills and economic mobility. In this Advocast Toolbox episode, Erin Vobornik shares practical ways to frame adult education in workforce terms without losing the heart of your message. Learn how to connect with employer and policymaker priorities while still advocating for all learners, regardless of their path or goal.
2026-01-1207 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E10: Angel Jimenez—From Newcomer to NavigatorAngel began his journey with limited English proficiency, and today he is paying it forward—helping others practice their English and launching an award-winning program that strengthens language skills within his community.
2025-12-2108 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E9: Marcos Bonilla-Cruz—"Experience How Much YOU Can Do"This must-see episode discusses how adult education helped Marcos Bonilla-Cruz reach his full potential after coming to America. His advice for adult learners is something you won't want to miss.
2025-12-1103 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E22: Advocating at the Crossroads - Where Workforce and Adult Education AlignAdult education and workforce development share the same goal: building opportunity for people and prosperity for communities. In this episode, Erin Vobornik speaks with Jaimie Francis from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation about where these systems naturally align—and how education and employer voices can come together for greater impact.Jaimie shares national insights, real-world success stories (including the Kalamazoo childcare collaborative), and practical advice for policymakers and advocates working at the intersection of learning and labor.
2025-12-1133 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast Toolbox E2: How to Support Learners in Telling Their StoriesIn this Advocast Toolbox episode, Erin Vobornik outlines how educators, mentors, and COABE Ambassadors can coach adult learners to prepare and deliver their stories with confidence. Learn how to create safe spaces, guide with empathy, and connect personal stories to advocacy goals—key skills in the COABE Ambassador Training program.
2025-11-2904 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E21: Sharing Your Story, Making Change: A Look Inside Adult Learner AdvocacyAdult learner Shyanne Ross knows the power of a personal story. In this episode of the COABE Advocast, she shares why she chose to speak with lawmakers, how she prepared, and the advice she has for others who want to use their voices to advocate for adult education.
2025-11-1222 min
Behind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E6: From 3D Design to Welding: Building the Future Workforce with SkillsUSAIn this episode, Anson and Jeff sit down with Chelle Travis, executive director of SkillsUSA—the nation’s premier workforce development organization for students. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, SkillsUSA continues to bridge the gap between education and industry, empowering over 440,000 student and instructor members nationwide. Chelle shares insights on the organization’s record-setting growth, its role in shaping future-ready professionals, and how SkillsUSA remains the number one catalyst in student workforce development for high school and postsecondary learners alike.
2025-10-2740 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast Toolbox E1: How to Tie a Story to DataLearn how to make your advocacy more powerful by connecting personal stories to compelling data. In this Advocast Toolbox episode, you’ll get practical tips on choosing the right data points, weaving them into your story, and making a clear, persuasive case for adult education — all in under 10 minutes.
2025-10-2707 min
Connect with Adult Ed: The NMAEA PodcastFlood the Hill Days: Advocacy at the Nation’s CapitalIn this episode, co-host Jamie Trujillo is joined by student ambassadors Arthur Sandoval, Eisa Lopez, Hallet Montgomery, and Victoria Garcia Montoya as well as UNM’s Director of Academic Communities, Cash Clifton. On September 15th and 16th, the group traveled to Washington, D.C. for COABE’s Flood the Hill Days. Along with some advocacy training, the group was able to meet with staffers from four of our federal legislators! Listen as we share our thoughts about this incredible experience, including reflections, take-aways, and future plans.
*Note: Don’t forget My Adult Ed Story...
2025-10-1338 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E8: Mary Baker—Overwhelmed to OptimisticWhen Mary Baker decided to get her education, she walked in feeling afraid that she couldn't succeed. Once she realized that comparison was the death of her happiness, she began to give herself the space and room to grow at her own pace. Today, Mary is a property manager who feels confident in her abilities and no longer feels overwhelmed to learn new skills! Her whole future is spread before her.
2025-10-0705 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E20: Empowering Through Access: Digital Skills for AllJoin COABE for this special Advocast episode, Empowering Through Access: Digital Skills for All, featuring guest Nell Eckersley. In honor of National Digital Inclusion Week, we discuss why digital access and skills are essential for adult learners, strategies for bridging the digital divide, and resources that help communities thrive online.
2025-10-0736 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E5: Strengthening the Nursing Workforce: Employer–Education Solutions from TexasIn this episode of Behind Every Employer, Anson Green and Jeffrey Abramowitz spotlight innovative approaches to building and sustaining the nursing workforce. Hear how Texas employers and educators are collaborating to train, support, and advance nurses to meet today’s critical healthcare demands through a partnership with the Trellis Foundation and UpSkill America.
2025-09-2442 minCOABE AdvocastEpisode 19: From Noise to Noticed: Crafting Messages That Move PolicyEvery day, lawmakers and their staff are inundated with requests, proposals, and stories from dozens of organizations. How do you make sure your adult education message rises above the noise?In the latest Advocast episode, “From Noise to Noticed: Crafting Messages That Move Policy,” Erin Vobornik sits down with Elyse Wasch and Alysha Bold, two public policy strategy experts from Penn Hill Group, to share insights you can put into practice immediately:Standout Messaging: What makes a message grab attention and stickCommon Pitfalls: Mistakes that can make even the best story fall flatActionable Tips: How to conn...
2025-09-1023 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E7: Samia Omran—Frustrated to Flying HighSamia Omran has faced many challenges in her life, but with her four children by her side, and adult education pushing her toward her goals, Samia took charge of her future and dreams of writing her story one day.
2025-08-1704 minCOABE AdvocastEmpowerED E6: Raylena Hayes—Careerless in Columbus to Keynote at CommencementRaylena Hayes came to adult education after dropping out as a teenage mom. After getting married and having four children, Raylena couldn't see a career path forward for herself, until she enrolled in a career adult education program. After failing the exam 6 times, Raylena persevered and finished her HSE. Her teachers asked her to be the keynote speaker at her graduation, and today she has a fulfilling career as a motivational speaker!
2025-08-1404 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E6: Raylena Hayes—Careerless in Columbus to Keynote at CommencementRaylena Hayes came to adult education after dropping out as a teenage mom. After getting married and having four children, Raylena couldn't see a career path forward for herself, until she enrolled in a career adult education program. After failing the exam 6 times, Raylena persevered and finished her HSE. Her teachers asked her to be the keynote speaker at her graduation, and today she has a fulfilling career as a motivational speaker!
2025-08-1304 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E5: Rita Rogers—Computer Science Major, Community Award Winner, and Career NavigatorRita Rogers originally encountered adult education while learning more English to pass her citizenship exam. After two years of volunteering at her program, Rita fell in love with adult education, and today has been promoted to a leadership role as her program's career navigator.
2025-08-0108 minEmpowerEDEmpowered E4: Victoria Garcia Montoya—Dropout to DreamerVictoria Garcia Montoya came to adult education to finish her HSE, but when she walked that stage, she walked away with so much more than a diploma. She now works as an administrative assistant for a college, and she dreams of someday having her own food truck, opening her own restaurant, and becoming the state senator of her county.
2025-07-2406 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E3: Luiz Nunes—Learner to LeaderAfter years of feeling suppressed, adult ed helped Luiz Nunes learn English. Now he feels that he has a voice and an opinion at the table, and he is excited to use his voice to lead others.
2025-07-1708 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E2: Danielle Gillens—Blessed in BermudaThe loss of Danielle Gillen's mother on the morning of her final GED exam set her up for failure, but Danielle wasn't ready to give up yet. Years later Danielle found the strength to start up again, and now she has become a supervisor in the hospitality industry on the island of Bermuda.
2025-07-1708 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E4: Driving Digital Transformation: A Journey from One School to Six Million StudentsAnson and Jeff sit down with Dr. Kiesha King, a passionate advocate for digital equity and ethical technology practices in education. As T-Mobile’s Senior National Education Administrator, Dr. King leads Project 10Million, a groundbreaking $10.7 billion initiative aimed at closing the digital divide for students across the country. With more than two decades of experience engaging and transforming the education landscape, Dr. King shares her powerful perspective on digital transformation. Her work spans nonprofits, juvenile justice, public schools, colleges, and the business community—bringing access, relevance, and dignity to the communities and individuals she serves. She’s also a five-t...
2025-07-0843 minEmpowerEDEmpowerED E1: Maira Marroquin—New American to NeurobiologistStarting a new life in a new country propelled Maira to learn English, and once she tasted success in this one area, her desire for learning became insatiable. Now, having finished a graduate degree in neurobiology, Maira looks for ways to inspire other immigrants to take charge of their future.
2025-07-0800 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E3: The Complete Package: What it really means to be a “Fair Chance” employerIf you really want to understand how to be a “Fair Chance” employer, then listen to this episode of the Behind Every Employer Podcast with our guest Jacqueline Cooley. Passionate about empowering individuals, Jacqueline champions personal and professional growth through mentorship and innovative coaching. At JBM Packaging, a leader in sustainable packaging, Jacqueline plays a pivotal role in enhancing employee satisfaction and career development while fostering a culture of inclusivity and accountability. Her commitment to second chance hiring stems from personal experiences, inspiring her to create opportunities for individuals overcoming barriers to employment. This is a must watch episode as J...
2025-05-3035 min
TESOL PopFrom Students to Stakeholders: Creating a Shared Classroom – with Dr Joel FloydDr. Joel Floyd, educator and founder of Ignite Career Foundation, joins Laura to share how his team creates an inclusive, learner-centred environment for adult English language learners in the US. In this episode, Joel shares student success stories, explores how community and compassion are embedded into their programmes, and reminds us of the power of reflective teaching.Watch with closed captions.TALKING POINTSA Student's Journey: From qualified pilot in Venezuela to English learner and future Delta Airlines pilot—with a little help from an inclusive learning environment.Meeting Students Where They Ar...
2025-05-2814 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E18: Advocacy April as a SAAEFIn this episode, Katie Donoviel, 2025 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellow (SAAEF) for Utah, discusses the power of advocacy, her SAAEF experience, and how to be a strong advocate for adult education.
2025-05-1428 min
Tried and Tested PodcastEmpowering Adult Learners: Inside New Mexico’s Adult Education MovementIn this inspiring episode of Tried and Tested, host Isabelle Gonthier sits down at the COABE Conference with two powerhouse leaders in adult education from New Mexico: Dr. Amber Gallup, State Director of Adult Education, and Jamie Trujillo, Executive Director of the New Mexico Adult Education Association.Together, they explore how New Mexico is transforming its adult education landscape—tackling systemic barriers, passing groundbreaking legislation, and creating bold new pathways through programs like HiSET. From student ambassador initiatives to free testing and living stipends, Amber and Jamie share the strategies, stories, and policy wins that are making re...
2025-04-2435 min
Philanthropy in PhocusEducation Beyond the WallsThe audience will get a better understanding of the importance of adult education for those individuals traveling through our criminal legal systems. People will listen because there are over 113 million people in our country that have a criminal history or know someone that does. Helping people navigate the next chapters of their lives through education and skill training can (and will) change the face of our criminal justice system.Jeffrey Abramowitz, J.D. is the Chief Executive Officer of the Petey Greene Program and the Puttkammer Center for Educational Justice. Jeff is the past Executive Director of...
2025-03-281h 01COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E17: From GED to U.S. DiplomatFrom GED learner to U.S. diplomat—Aminata Sy’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the transformative power of education. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story, from overcoming challenges as an adult learner to serving in the U.S. Foreign Service. Tune in to hear how advocacy, determination, and education shaped her path.
2025-03-2023 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E2: Bridging Talent & Opportunity: How UMass & JVS Are Transforming Healthcare Workforce DevelopmentIn this episode Anson and Jeff sit down with Kelly Aiken, director of workforce development and planning at UMass Memorial Health (UMMH), and Mandy Townsend, senior vice president of employer engagement at Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) in Boston, to discuss how UMMH built its workforce development function from the ground up. Leveraging their multi-employer Healthcare Training Institute and utilizing support from JVS Boston has allowed UMMH to upskill workers, strengthen career pathways, and support internationally trained professionals through credential validation, digital literacy, ESOL, citizenship interview preparation. Kelly and Mandy explore the challenges and successes of creating an accessible talent...
2025-03-0646 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E16: Three Things We Love About AdvocacyIn this special episode, we are joined by COABE’s 2025 Outstanding Local Excellence in Advocacy award winner, Mark Hux! Join in to hear what each of us love most about adult education advocacy.
2025-02-1126 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S3 E1: Forging a Dynamic Future for Nebraska ManufacturingIn this episode, Diane Temme Stinton, CEO of TMCO, shares insights into her leadership journey of following in her father’s footsteps at the helm of the company. Under her guidance, TMCO was named Nebraska’s Manufacturer of the Year in 2023. Diane discusses her passion for workforce development and manufacturing advocacy, as well as TMCO’s impressive growth. The company not only creates high-quality components for industries like agriculture, aerospace, and energy but also prioritizes its employees' well-being by offering ESL classes, early childhood programs for workers’ families, and language volunteers to support non-native English speakers. Tune in to hear her...
2025-01-3136 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E10: AI's Dynamic Impact on Careers: Conquering Challenges and Unlocking OpportunitiesIn this episode, Adam Leonard, a self-described data evangelist and chief analytics officer at the Texas Workforce Commission, sits down with us to discuss generative AI’s potential to transform the career prospects of job seekers and students. As AI dramatically changes jobs in unpredictable ways, it is critical to have a mechanism to track and respond to these changes. But while AI is a catalyst for change, it is also a key piece of developing that model. AI can deliver near-time feedback on the skills employers are seeking, thus providing immediate direction to students and job seekers on wh...
2024-09-1343 min
Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership280: 3 Characteristics of a Great Nonprofit Leader (Jeffrey Abramowitz)280: 3 Characteristics of a Great Nonprofit Leader (Jeffrey Abramowitz)SUMMARYAre you struggling to balance mission-driven leadership with the practical demands of scaling your nonprofit AND keeping your team motivated and engaged? In episode 280 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Jeffrey Abramowitz shares his powerful journey from trial lawyer and incarceration to nonprofit leadership, and explores the three essential characteristics that define great leadership in the sector: listening, learning, and engaging. Drawing from his personal experiences, including time spent...
2024-09-1246 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E9 : Generative AI in the Classroom … It’s Really THAT Simple!Rachel Riggs is leading the field of adult education using Generative AI in the classroom. Check out her review of the state of play for instruction and learning. In addition to a powerful review of high quality tools that instructors can use, Rachel shares her ideas on how instructors are overcoming creative hurdles, developing materials, and finding new ways to integrate the goals of adult learners into instruction.
2024-06-2241 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E8: Vi on AI!—Tackling the Basics of Using ChatGPT to Develop LearningIn this episode, Vi Hawes, from Pima Community College, describes her journey becoming an AI instructional trendsetter in adult learning. She explains how she simplifies complex concepts for beginners and shares how ChatGPT enhances her daily classroom activities with its efficiency and value.
2024-05-2937 min
The TALK PodcastThoughts & Reflections from COABE 2024In this episode, you’ll hear on-the-ground reactions from attendees at the 2024 Coalition on Adult Basic Education National Conference, or COABE, held March seventeenth through twentieth in Nashville, Tennessee. Interviewees include: Anthony Burik, Kathy Harris, Marnie Huff, Ramon Cardenas, Stephanie Moore, and Wanda Govan.
2024-05-0614 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E7: AI, Digital Equity, and Educator Support: Blazing Trails and Building ExpertisePriyanka Sharma, Vice President of World Education, joins Anson and Jeff at the 2024 Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) National Conference to explore current trends at the intersection of trending digital technologies and adult education with a focus on impact of AI and the Digital Equity Act. Priyanka discusses how AI is reshaping education and the need for bridging the gap between tech-savvy education mavericks who are blazing the trail with AI and the large majority of educators who are still figuring it out. The conversation concludes with a thoughtful review of the Digital Equity Act's status and what...
2024-04-2323 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E15: Hosting Community EventsIn this episode, we talk to Debra Tavaras of Atlanta Public School Adult Education and COABE’s 2023 SAAEF fellow for Georgia about how to persevere through the challenges of advocacy. She discusses an event that she created and her hopes for the future of advocacy in Georgia. We are also joined by former adult learner Gaelle Petit Homme who discusses what adult education has meant to her and how she found the courage to share her story.
2024-04-1733 min
Connect with Adult Ed: The NMAEA PodcastConference Reflections: COABE 2024 Part 2In this episode, Nadia sits down (on the floor) with Jamie Trujillo and Rebecca Sherry in Nashville, TN to talk about the 2024 national COABE Conference. Listen as they share their preparation tips, top takeaways, and favorite sessions!
Intro & outro music: Energetic Hip-hop by Skilsel Free for use under the Pixabay Content License
2024-04-0229 min
Connect with Adult Ed: The NMAEA PodcastConference Reflections: COABE 2024 Part 1In this episode, Nadia sits down (on the floor) with Jamie Trujillo and Rebecca Sherry in Nashville, TN to talk about the 2024 national COABE Conference. Listen as they share their preparation tips, top takeaways, and favorite sessions!
Intro & outro music: Energetic Hip-hop by Skilsel Free for use under the Pixabay Content License
2024-04-0232 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E14: COABE Turns 25!In this episode, we speak with COABE CEO, Sharon Bonney, and President Elect, Hector Martinez, about the past, present, and future of COABE. We are also joined by former adult learner Kimberly Lee who shares her story full of struggle and resilience. Her story will inspire adult learners and mothers everywhere. You won’t want to miss this episode!
2024-02-2959 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E6: Leveling the Job Search Playing Field with HireReachLooking for better new hires? Switch to skills-based hiring! In this episode, Chad Patton and Marlene Brostrom from West Michigan Works and HireReach, are joined by Kenyatta Brame from Cascade Engineering to discuss how they have figured out how to strengthen the hiring process through data driven evidence. With the skills-based hiring model job seekers benefit by being able to show what they know and can do, not just what they have on paper. Employers can get down to business by getting right to what they want. The right knowledge, skills and abilities in a candidate! No longer is...
2024-01-0945 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E13: AEFL Week Advocacy in ConnecticutIn this episode, we talk to Christine Valdez, 2023 SAAEF Fellow from Connecticut, about how she and her peers expanded their advocacy during AEFL Week. We are also joined by Stone Dixon who shares his journey from an adult education student to a graduate.
2023-11-2125 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E5: Ninjas, Subway Cars, Aerospace, and ATVs —Trailblazing Economic Development and Maximizing Diverse Talent at Kawasaki MotorsIn this episode, Kevin Mattran, training administrator for Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing, and Bryan Seck, executive director for Lincoln Literacy, sit down with us to discuss how Kawasaki Motors and Lincoln Literacy have partnered to fuel and drive economic expansion and career pathways in Nebraska. This workforce population is exceptionally diverse with 10% nonnative to the United States. Lincoln Literacy and Kawasaki partnered to develop a basic and intermediate level English class to help New Americans increase their understanding of safety, the workplace, and career pathways in the company. This episode provides outstanding examples of not just employer/education collaboration, but...
2023-11-0249 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E4: Changing the Workplace One Chef at a TimeAt the heart of our workforce are people teaching others how to succeed. In this episode of Behind Every Employer, the amazing Chef Jeff Henderson shares his remarkable story from being incarcerated to becoming one of the best chefs in the country. Jeff's rise through the culinary ranks is only topped by his passion to give those impacted by our justice system a chance to change their lives in a career pathway filled with food, hard work, and lots of love. Join Jeffrey Abramowitz and Anson Green as they get to know Chef Jeff and learn about the Chef...
2023-10-1334 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E12: Lessons Learned From Advocacy AprilIn this episode, we discuss highlights of Advocacy April, including the Spring Legislative Briefing with two of the briefing’s panelists, Hector Martinez of the Kansas Board of Regents and Joyce Warrington of OAASIS. We also talk to adult learner TT Martinez about her passion for elevating student voice and empowering change.
2023-10-0349 min
Your Brand AmplifiedEmbracing the Transformative Power of Adult Education with Sharon BonneyDid you know that your past is not a death sentence to your future? This profound insight came to me during my conversation with the passionate Sharon Bonney, the head of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (CoABE). Sharon, driven by the inspiring journeys of her grandmother and husband, who both earned their GEDs as adults, is a staunch advocate for adult education. She believes, as do I, that everyone deserves a chance at bettering themselves, no matter their age or prior circumstances. Sharon paints a vivid picture of the breadth of adult education, from basic literacy...
2023-09-1527 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E3: Transforming Futures While Outfitting RVs, Boats, Pickup Trucks, and High-Speed RailIn this episode, Mathew Jerlecki, director of learning at Lippert Components, Inc., discusses Lippert’s best-in-class upskilling model that positions the company for the future while building economic opportunity for team members. Using a scalable model, Lippert makes education and training easily accessible through collaboration with local resources, including colleges and universities. Programming is intentionally designed to minimize business interruption and accommodate team members’ busy schedules. Lippert’s learning programs have been so well received by team members that Lippert is expanding its model to additional national locations in 2024.
2023-08-1442 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E2: Unlocking the Potential of Entry-Level Workers Through Pathways at Corewell HealthWhat happens when you match Michigan’s largest employer with Western Michigan’s largest community-based organization dedicated to literacy? Kevin Vos, Vice President at Corewell Health, and Wendy Falb, Executive Director at the Literacy Center of West Michigan, sit down to discuss how their collaboration is transforming lives for entry-level workers and bringing bottom-line benefits to Corewell Health. Wendy and Kevin share the value this workplace literacy collaboration brings to their respective organizations and specific takeaways that stress the importance of program customization and executive leadership to create a true win-win for both organizations.
2023-07-1941 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E11: DEI in Adult EdIn this episode, we discuss the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in adult education. Carmine Stewart provides a program director’s view on ensuring all voices are at the tab;e where decisions are made. Cydnee Sanders shares what DEI looks like in a classroom and shares her influential work on the topic. Lastly, we speak with adult learner Mardgrina Leonce on the impact of attending the COABE National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.
2023-07-031h 09Behind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S2 E1: Dust, Blood, and Mold: Building Team Commitment and Self-Actualization in the Restoration/Remediation IndustryIn this episode serial entrepreneur Maxine Gomez sits down with us to share her insights on building skills, positive engagement, and career growth for team members in the restoration/remediation industry. Whether it is cleaning up dust, blood, or mold, Maxine shares not only the importance of building skills, leadership, and certifications but also how she supports the team to feel like they are part of something bigger than the often difficult work of remediation. Moving back and forth from her steel toes to stilettos, Maxine brings her expertise as a certified mold expert, StrengthsFinder coach, bilingual trainer, and...
2023-06-1335 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E10: Organizing Effective RalliesIn this episode, we discuss the process for organizing effective rallies. You will hear from Jeff Campbell of the Illinois Adult and Continuing Educators Association (IACEA) about adapting to virtual events, managing tasks, and engaging participants. We are also joined by Madison Flannery, a former adult education student who is enrolled in Lewis and Clark Community College’s paralegal program.
2023-05-1250 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E9: Setting Advocacy GoalsIn this episode, we discuss adult learner success stories, setting your advocacy goals for 2023, and why legislators need to hear from adult learners. Join us as we chat with 2022 California SAAEF fellow Karina Ravkina-Matousov and adult learner Brandy Martinez. You won’t want to miss their stories and insights as we head into 2023, the year of advocacy.
2023-02-2250 minBehind Every EmployerSeason 1, Episode 11: 2022 Year in ReviewWe can't believe that Behind Every Employer Season 1 is behind us and we hope you will join us on an incredible look back at 2022. We had amazing guests that were able to share their passion, insight, and knowledge on how we can all do a better job supporting adult learners in our country. Join Anson Green and Jeffrey Abramowitz as they take a walk back in time and reflect on 2022 and gear up for what lies ahead for the Behind Every Employer Podcast in 2023. Thank you to all of our listeners, to our support staff Lindsey Lord and Sharon...
2023-01-3131 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S1 E10: Shopping for English at Northgate Gonzalez MarketIn this episode leaders from Northgate Gonzalez Market, National Immigration Forum and the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC) sit down with us to discuss their successful workplace English program in the retail grocery industry. These organizations have stacked English and digital literacy training as onramps to retail credentialing and management certification. This effort supports employees with limited English proficiency at Northgate in developing their English within a retail environment and prepares them for enrollment in the WAFC-endorsed Retail Management Certificate accredited college program. Northgate explains how their collaboration with the National Immigration Forum and its innovative workplace ESL...
2023-01-301h 02Behind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S1 E9: Call to ACTION! Embracing (and Bracing for) Digital Transformation Under the Digital Equity ActAmanda and Anne sit down with us to provide an expert review and valuable playbook describing what employers and practitioners can do to respond to the Digital Equity Act, a transformative law passed by Congress in 2021 that will drive a generational realignment for communities currently disconnected or scarcely accessing digital resources. Digital access and literacy are on everyone’s minds as this new $2.75 billion in federal funding reaches states and communities. Amanda and Anne underscore the critical role employers can play in defining and advocating the digital skills needed to remain competitive. Our guests leverage their local, state, and na...
2022-12-291h 00
The Even Better Podcast4 Things that I have Learned that are Most Important About Effectively Communicating and CoachingSinikka Waugh and Helene Fein discuss 4 Things that I have Learned that are Most Important About Effectively Communicating and Coaching. Dr. Helene Fein is the Executive Director of the Iowa Literacy Council, a state association serving adult literacy professionals that are affiliated with COABE (Coalition on Adult Basic Education). Previously, Helene was the Data and Research Lead for United Way of Central Iowa and was a former Adult Literacy Director for the state of Iowa. She earned a Masters in School Administration and an Ed. Specialist degree in Adult Training and Development, both from Drake University. Helene...
2022-11-2835 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S1 E8: Developing the Digital Bench Strength of Small Businesses and Disconnected Communities in Ventura CountyJaime Fall sits down with us to discuss his plans for launching a $5 million digital upskilling initiative for the Economic Development Collaborative in Ventura County, California. After seven years as director of UpSkill America at the Aspen Institute, Jaime explains how he is using his past experience to build a portfolio of digital skills solutions for jobseekers and workers in Ventura. Jaime describes Ventura’s progressive plan to address three unique segments: Those who lack digital skills, workers who need improved digital skills for work, and small businesses who lack the digital skills to thrive or survive in an in...
2022-11-2241 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E8: AEFL Week 2022 RecapIn this episode, we chat with Sharon Bonney and Jeff Abramowitz of COABE about how the nation celebrated AEFL Week this year. We also speak to Megan Linzy, adult education alumni and current COABE committee member, about her experiences in adult education and her advice to students.
2022-11-0758 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer: Untapped Talent with Jeff KorzenikAs employers across the country struggle to find and keep talented employees, more and more employers are looking at the “Untapped Talent” which can be found in the men and women who have been impacted by our justice systems. Jeff Korzenik, an executive from Fifth Third Bank, has been sharing the benefits of tapping this talent pool with employers of every size and across the country. Join us as we explore how a banker is changing the face of employment for the men and women traveling through our criminal justice systems.
2022-10-0448 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer: Serving Up English and Digital Skills at Taziki's CafeIn this episode Amy Parman and Reina Camargo from Tazikis Café sit down with Katie Brown from EnGen, a language upskilling platform, to discuss investing in valued immigrant team members through tech-forward English upskilling. Tazikis, a Mediterranean café chain with locations across the U.S., believes that food is the cornerstone to communities and that community inclusion is critical in the workplace. Amy and Reina share Taziki’s enlightened model for supporting immigrant team members with English upskilling through EnGen. This model has helped them build career paths for team members from the kitchen to leadership positions. Katie shares how EnGe...
2022-08-1851 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer: Serving Up English and Digital Skills at Taziki's CafeIn this episode Amy Parman and Reina Camargo from Tazikis Café sit down with Katie Brown from EnGen, a language upskilling platform, to discuss investing in valued immigrant team members through tech-forward English upskilling. Tazikis, a Mediterranean café chain with locations across the U.S., believes that food is the cornerstone to communities and that community inclusion is critical in the workplace. Amy and Reina share Taziki’s enlightened model for supporting immigrant team members with English upskilling through EnGen. This model has helped them build career paths for team members from the kitchen to leadership positions. Katie shares how EnGe...
2022-08-1851 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E7: Preparing Adult Learners for AdvocacyIn this episode, we talk to Laura Porfirio, an educator with a passion for civic engagement and activism and the creator of what is now the COABE Ambassador Program, and Jessica Wabler, a seasoned adult ed advocate and coordinator of COABE’s Ambassador Program. Our special guest, Haziel Lopez, is a former adult education student and graduate of the Ambassador Program who shares advice on how students can use their voices to be the change they want to see.
2022-08-0949 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E7: Preparing Adult Learners for AdvocacyIn this episode, we talk to Laura Porfirio, an educator with a passion for civic engagement and activism and the creator of what is now the COABE Ambassador Program, and Jessica Wabler, a seasoned adult ed advocate and coordinator of COABE’s Ambassador Program. Our special guest, Haziel Lopez, is a former adult education student and graduate of the Ambassador Program who shares advice on how students can use their voices to be the change they want to see.
2022-08-0949 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S1E5: Enhancing Leadership Capacity and Managing Jobsite Dynamics and Diverse Teams in the Trades!Jesse sits down with us to discuss his experience enhancing the image of careers in the trades. Digging into his own diverse career in construction—from grading ditches to counseling executives—Jesse delivers unique insights into supporting business leaders’ ability to expand their influence with their workforce. We discuss effective leadership in managing increased use of technology on the worksite as well as how increasing language and gender diverse worksites influence dynamics between management and the frontline crew members. Jesse shares what effective leaders can do in trades and other fields to effectively manage these shifts while maximizing getting the job do...
2022-07-191h 19Behind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer S1E5: Enhancing Leadership Capacity and Managing Jobsite Dynamics and Diverse Teams in the Trades!Jesse sits down with us to discuss his experience enhancing the image of careers in the trades. Digging into his own diverse career in construction—from grading ditches to counseling executives—Jesse delivers unique insights into supporting business leaders’ ability to expand their influence with their workforce. We discuss effective leadership in managing increased use of technology on the worksite as well as how increasing language and gender diverse worksites influence dynamics between management and the frontline crew members. Jesse shares what effective leaders can do in trades and other fields to effectively manage these shifts while maximizing getting the job do...
2022-07-191h 19COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E6: Crafting Your Elevator PitchIn this episode, we talk to Jackie Aguilera and Audrey Nelson, 2021 State Advocate for Adult Education Fellows from Texas, and Olivia Quintanilla, a former adult education student who is now an adult education coordinator. Jackie and Audrey share tips for how to craft a strong and impactful elevator pitch in preparation for AEFL Week. Olivia highlights the moments that lead to her success and how she pays it forward. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-07-0459 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E6: Crafting Your Elevator PitchIn this episode, we talk to Jackie Aguilera and Audrey Nelson, 2021 State Advocate for Adult Education Fellows from Texas, and Olivia Quintanilla, a former adult education student who is now an adult education coordinator. Jackie and Audrey share tips for how to craft a strong and impactful elevator pitch in preparation for AEFL Week. Olivia highlights the moments that lead to her success and how she pays it forward. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-07-0459 minBehind Every EmployerSlaying Dragons to Develop Agile and Inclusive Strategies for Allied HealthVan Ton-Quinlivan joins us to discuss what she calls the fire hose and the garden hose of workforce demand and provides various models for developing an ecosystem of education partners to deliver adult friendly education at scale. Her insights from a distinguished career in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors have helped her devise enterprise models for upskilling frontline workers by harnessing community colleges and the private sector in both the energy and healthcare sectors. A nationally recognized thinker and do-er in workforce development, Van’s organization Futuro Health has become a catalyst for economic mobility in healthcare. She de...
2022-06-211h 03Behind Every EmployerSlaying Dragons to Develop Agile and Inclusive Strategies for Allied HealthVan Ton-Quinlivan joins us to discuss what she calls the fire hose and the garden hose of workforce demand and provides various models for developing an ecosystem of education partners to deliver adult friendly education at scale. Her insights from a distinguished career in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors have helped her devise enterprise models for upskilling frontline workers by harnessing community colleges and the private sector in both the energy and healthcare sectors. A nationally recognized thinker and do-er in workforce development, Van’s organization Futuro Health has become a catalyst for economic mobility in healthcare. She describes ap...
2022-06-211h 03COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E5: State Association AdvocacyIn this episode, we talk to Tammy Brown and Patrick Brown of the Michigan Association of Community & Adult Education (MACAE) and adult education alumnus Erika Muñoz. Tammy and Patrick share how to create and implement effective advocacy through your state’s adult education association. Erika shares her story of how she came to adult education and her successes. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-06-1656 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E5: State Association AdvocacyIn this episode, we talk to Tammy Brown and Patrick Brown of the Michigan Association of Community & Adult Education (MACAE) and adult education alumnus Erika Muñoz. Tammy and Patrick share how to create and implement effective advocacy through your state’s adult education association. Erika shares her story of how she came to adult education and her successes. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-06-1656 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E4: Advocacy Dream TeamIn this episode we talk with Regina Suitt (COABE) and Maira Estefania Marroquin about the best strategies to create an efficient advocacy team and how to prevent burn out. Maira shares her experiences advocating to stakeholders and legislators and what helped her succeed as an adult ESL student.
2022-06-021h 00COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E4: Advocacy Dream TeamIn this episode we talk with Regina Suitt (COABE) and Maira Estefania Marroquin about the best strategies to create an efficient advocacy team and how to prevent burn out. Maira shares her experiences advocating to stakeholders and legislators and what helped her succeed as an adult ESL student.
2022-06-021h 00COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E3: Putting the Fun in FundingIn this episode, we talk with Laurie Kierstead-Joseph (Pima Community College) and Ana Chavarin. Laurie dives deep into how adult education is funded and how to advocate for more. The incredible Ana Chavarin illustrates how adult education changes the lives of adult learners by sharing her story and successes. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-05-231h 01COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E3: Putting the Fun in FundingIn this episode, we talk with Laurie Kierstead-Joseph (Pima Community College) and Ana Chavarin. Laurie dives deep into how adult education is funded and how to advocate for more. The incredible Ana Chavarin illustrates how adult education changes the lives of adult learners by sharing her story and successes. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-05-231h 01Behind Every EmployerSpecial Episode on Ukraine Policy and RefugeesThis is a special episode of the Behind Every Employer Podcast, with guests Samantha Howland Zelaya, Helena Coric, and Jennie Murray. Hosted by Anson Green and Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-05-101h 12Behind Every EmployerSpecial Episode-Employment and Immigration Supports for Ukraine and Afghanistan RefugeesEmployers and educators are eager to find ways to support Ukraine and Afghanistan refugees. In this special episode, experts from the National Immigration Forum and Upwardly Global join us to share updates on the immigration status of these new immigrant groups and insights into what employers can expect related to employing this potential talent.
2022-05-101h 12Behind Every EmployerSpecial Episode-Employment and Immigration Supports for Ukraine and Afghanistan RefugeesEmployers and educators are eager to find ways to support Ukraine and Afghanistan refugees. In this special episode, experts from the National Immigration Forum and Upwardly Global join us to share updates on the immigration status of these new immigrant groups and insights into what employers can expect related to employing this potential talent.
2022-05-101h 12COABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E2: Advocate with COABEIn this episode, we speak with Sharon Bonney and James Bonnet of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE). Learn about why advocacy matters, how COABE has invested in advocacy, and how you can get involved! You won’t want to miss James Bonney as he shares his journey from adult education to COABE’s Creative Director. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-05-0243 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E2: Advocate with COABEIn this episode, we speak with Sharon Bonney and James Bonnet of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE). Learn about why advocacy matters, how COABE has invested in advocacy, and how you can get involved! You won’t want to miss James Bonney as he shares his journey from adult education to COABE’s Creative Director. Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-05-0243 min2022-04-2847 minBehind Every EmployerTransforming Traditional Organizations and Non-Techies into Innovation Digital PowerhousesHao joins us to discuss how traditional organizations can become innovation powerhouses through technology. Hao’s diverse experience provides him with a unique look into how leaders approach technology deployment. He explores how the unconscious biases tech leaders may have toward frontline workers can blind them to how best to effectively match tech solutions to work tasks. Better understanding the ability, familiarity, and comfort these workers have with technology can speed companies’ ability to introduce tech solutions. Hao also shares insights into how organizations that nurture the creative confidence of workers with technology have done so by disrupting legacy learning and...
2022-04-2747 minBehind Every EmployerTransforming Traditional Organizations and Non-Techies into Innovation Digital PowerhousesHao joins us to discuss how traditional organizations can become innovation powerhouses through technology. Hao’s diverse experience provides him with a unique look into how leaders approach technology deployment. He explores how the unconscious biases tech leaders may have toward frontline workers can blind them to how best to effectively match tech solutions to work tasks. Better understanding the ability, familiarity, and comfort these workers have with technology can speed companies’ ability to introduce tech solutions. Hao also shares insights into how organizations that nurture the creative confidence of workers with technology have done so by disrupting legacy learning and...
2022-04-2747 minBehind Every EmployerUpskilling, Reskilling Critical Frontline Healthcare Teams, and Managing Digital TransformationJacque joins us to share her experiences bridging the healthcare sector training demands with adult friendly education and training. Businesses across almost all sectors are seeking ways to upskill and reskill their frontline and entry level workforce to meet new job demands and an increasingly digital environment. At the same time adult educators are eager to help businesses meet that challenge. Jacque tells us how. Her perspectives span more than 30 years developing comprehensive systems of responsive training for University Health, South Texas’s largest health system based in San Antonio, Texas, as a volunteer literacy tutor and administrator for workplace ES...
2022-04-2759 minBehind Every EmployerUpskilling, Reskilling Critical Frontline Healthcare Teams, and Managing Digital TransformationJacque joins us to share her experiences bridging the healthcare sector training demands with adult friendly education and training. Businesses across almost all sectors are seeking ways to upskill and reskill their frontline and entry level workforce to meet new job demands and an increasingly digital environment. At the same time adult educators are eager to help businesses meet that challenge. Jacque tells us how. Her perspectives span more than 30 years developing comprehensive systems of responsive training for University Health, South Texas’s largest health system based in San Antonio, Texas, as a volunteer literacy tutor and administrator for workplace ES...
2022-04-2759 min2022-04-2759 minBehind Every EmployerBehind Every Employer TrailerListen to the trailer of the Behind Every Employer Podcast. Hosted by Anson Green and Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-04-2507 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast S1 E1: Meet the AdvocastJoin Sara and Erin as we introduce COABE’s Adult Ed Advocast. We are joined by Rachel Koch (Pima Community College), whose recommendation won and became our podcast’s name. Wondering what COABE’s Adult Ed Advocast is? Start here! Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-04-2130 minCOABE AdvocastAdult Ed Advocast E1: Meet the AdvocastJoin Sara and Erin as we introduce COABE’s Adult Ed Advocast. We are joined by Rachel Koch (Pima Community College), whose recommendation won and became our podcast’s name. Wondering what COABE’s Adult Ed Advocast is? Start here! Adult Ed #Advocast is hosted by State Advocates for Adult Education Fellows, Sara Haghighi and Erin Vobornik, and produced by Jeffrey Abramowitz.
2022-04-2130 min
Cloud Education: Teacher's EditionS2: E9 Takeaways from the COABE and Google Professional CertificationsThree of the best practices of advice I would recommend for any college looking into bringing the Google IT Professional Certification into their offerings as part of a class or stand-alone course is as follows:
Require participants to complete an orientation. When we started our course it was in April 2020 - at the beginning of the Covid pandemic. With the confusion and concern facing everyone, an official orientation was not completed. When we offer the course again in May 2021 we will require participants to attend an orientation to help ensure they understand the requirements and time commitment expected to...
2021-03-2919 min
US Citizenship PodcastWhat's happening with the USCIS Openings? Week 5Dr. Patricia Hernandez and Jennifer Gagliardi talk very briefly about video comments and then move on to a practice USCIS N-400 interview and much more. 07/11/2020 Agenda: 1. Quick Comments and Request 2. Practice Interview 3. New Citizenship Resources--(Sorry, we skipped it. See below) 4. 2020 Calendar—before and after COVID-19 5. USCIS Webinar Seattle plus Migration Policy Institute Webinar 6. Immigration news headlines 7. ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) announcement and our response This podcast is almost 50 minutes! Here is the video with closed caption: https://bit.ly/uscis-week-05 Her...
2020-07-1349 min
US Citizenship PodcastCalifornia Adult Education Week and Legislative Day10 questions that celebrate Adult Education Week and the California State Government. pdf: https://goo.gl/kAT29o California Adult Education Administrators Association http://www.caeaa.org/ California Council for Adult Education http://www.ccaestate.org/ Adult Education Week http://www.ccaestate.org/adult-education-week/ Legislative Day http://www.ccaestate.org/legislative-day/ CCAE Mobile App http://www.ccaestate.org/ccae-app/ CCAE Mobile App for Leg Day (how to video) https://youtu.be/1i1POR610sE USA.gov links to...
2017-04-0409 min