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Central Region News & Updates

Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.

Daryon Efaw: A WIOA & SkillUp Journey from CNA to RN

Meet Daryon Efaw, a Southwest Baptist University graduate. From CNA to RN, her journey showcases the transformative power of education and determination.

Episode 54: How to Introduce Yourself in an Email

Is there a right or wrong way to send an email to a potential employer? Yes and yes, and we’re talking about it in this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast.

Hundreds of Missourians Grow Careers for Free Through Coursera

More than 500 Missourians have completed over 2,200 courses through Coursera, who partnered with MDHEWD to help Missourians get back to work after COVID.

May 2023 Missouri Jobs Report

Over the year, job increase was 55,600, and the unemployment rate rose by 0.4% from May 2022 to May 2023.

Episode 53: Navigating Disability Accommodations in the Workplace with Michelle Raz

Is it okay to ask for accommodations at work when it comes to function challenges like ADHD? And as an employer, how do you address those concerns?

Episode 52: How and When To Put Coursera Certificates on Your Resume

How and when should you put Coursera certificates on your resume? That’s what we’re talking about in this episode of The Workforce Link.

From Challenges to Triumph: Makinzie Dinwiddie’s Inspiring Path with WIOA Support

From unemployed high school dropout to HISET recipient, Makinzie is now making $20/hr. and supporting her new baby.

4 Personal Branding Tips Everyone Needs To Know

Personal branding has become increasingly important in today’s job market. Here are four personal branding tips that everyone should know:

Episode 51: How Artificial Intelligence is Changing the Way We Work with Christopher Lind

Artificial intelligence: is it going to take your job? We’re answering that question with Christopher Lind in this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast.

5 Unhealthy Job Search Habits Keeping You Unemployed

It’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits that can hinder your progress and keep you unemployed. Here are five common unhealthy job search habits to avoid:

Episode 50: Why Job Interviews Aren’t As Scary As You Think

With a little preparation and confidence, job interviews can actually be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Why Personality Can Get You A Job Over Experience

Personality can sometimes be the deciding factor in a job offer. Here are some reasons why personality can get you a job over experience:

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Episode 83: How to Make a Great Impression in Your First 90 Days on the Job

by Sundi Jo Graham | June 10, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

You got the job — now what? The first 90 days on a new job are more important than most people realize. Tune in to Episode 83 of The Workforce Link Podcast to find out how to make a great impression, build the right relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success from day one.

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Episode 82: Why Job Descriptions Are Scaring Away Good Candidates

by Sundi Jo Graham | May 19, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Is your job description driving away top talent? In Episode 82 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down why job descriptions are quietly scaring away good candidates and six practical things you can do right now to fix them.

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Episode 81: Why Your Emotions Are Blocking Your Job Search Success

by Sundi Jo Graham | April 22, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Your resume might not be the problem. In Episode 81 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down how anxiety and self-doubt quietly sabotage your job search and what you can do about it.

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Episode 80: Hiring for Attitude vs. Experience: Which Matters More?

by Sundi Jo Graham | February 25, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

When hiring, what matters more: attitude or experience? In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, we explore how employers can balance technical expertise and soft skills to build stronger teams and improve long-term retention.

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Episode 79: You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

by Sundi Jo Graham | January 28, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

You don’t have to have your career figured out to move forward. In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo explores why clarity matters more than certainty and how slowing down can help you take the next step with confidence.

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Episode 78: A Fresh Start for Your Career and Workforce Planning

by Sundi Jo Graham | January 5, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

The new year often brings pressure to have clear answers about work and career goals. This episode explores how to start fresh with intention, focus on clarity over urgency, and take meaningful next steps in career and workforce planning.

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Episode 77: The Brain Science Behind Getting Things Done at Work

by Sundi Jo Graham | November 20, 2025 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Learn the brain science behind accountability at work. This Workforce Link Podcast episode explains why some employees excel and how all Missouri job seekers and employers can build stronger habits.

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Episode 76:Career Shifts: When to Move On and How to Do It Well

by Sundi Jo Graham | October 29, 2025 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Discover the three cognitive habits that make people more accountable and productive at work. Learn how neuroscience supports better team performance.

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