Does a Degree Still Matter? The Skills Driving Today’s Digital-First Economy

Pathways to Purpose: Training the Next Generation of Healthcare Heroes

Pathways to Purpose: Training the Next Generation of Healthcare Heroes In this episode, we explore how high school students are being equipped to step directly into healthcare careers through innovative training programs and partnerships. With support from organizations like Bloomberg Philanthropies and other forward-thinking foundations, these initiatives are redefining what career readiness looks like — helping students graduate with certifications, confidence, and a clear direction in the healthcare field. As America’s population aged 65 and older grows from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050, the demand for skilled healthcare workers has never been greater. The U.S. is projected to face a shortage of more than 187,000 physicians by 2037, highlighting the urgent need to build new talent pipelines. Tune in as we discuss why early investment in healthcare education isn’t just about jobs — it’s about building a sustainable workforce, strengthening communities, and inspiring the next generation of healthcare heroes to meet the world’s growing health needs. 📧 Contact: info@upskilledu.net 🌐 Website: www.upskilledu.net

👨🏽‍💻 Rewriting The Code: From Self Taught Coder to CEO Empowering The Next Generation

🎙️ Rewriting The Code: From Self-Taught Coder to CEO Mikeal Vaughn’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most unconventional paths lead to the greatest impact. Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mikeal’s curiosity and willingness to take risks led him across the world to Tokyo, Japan. There, he built a thriving career, sharpening the self-taught coding skills that would later transform his life. But despite his success abroad, Mikeal felt a deep pull to return home — to give back and create opportunities for the next generation. That calling became Urban Coders Guild, the nonprofit he founded to equip young people, particularly those from underserved and overlooked communities, with the tools to succeed in the digital age. Through hands-on coding education, mentorship, and real-world exposure, Mikeal is opening doors that many young people never thought possible. His work is not only about teaching code — it’s about building confidence, nurturing creativity, and showing students that they have the power to design their own future. In this episode, Mikeal shares his extraordinary story of becoming a self-taught coder turned CEO, the lessons he learned from living and working in Japan, and his mission to create equity in tech. We’ll explore how his organization is reshaping lives in Tulsa and beyond, inspiring a new wave of coders who will not just adapt to the future — but define it. upskilledu.net Mikeal Vaughn  [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikealvaughn/overlay/about-this-profile/] He/Him  1st degree connection 1stFounder and Executive Director of Urban Coders Guild | 2023 Aspen Tech Policy Hub Fellow | STEM/STEAM Education Advocate linkedin.com/in/mikealvaughn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikealvaughn]

STEPPING UP INTHE DARK: Kilimanjaro Lessons on Entrepreneurial Uncertainty

Summary In this episode of Skills Without Borders, Dr. Andrea Clark interviews Vicki Hamilton, founder of Recoil Knee Pad, who shares her journey from product design engineer to entrepreneur. Vicki discusses her creative background, the challenges of starting her business, and the lessons learned from climbing Kilimanjaro. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, surrounding oneself with supportive people, and staying grounded in the face of entrepreneurial challenges. Vicki's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's passions. Takeaways Vicki's background in product design engineering fueled her creativity and problem-solving skills. The idea for Recoil Knee Pad originated from a personal need to help her father with knee pain. Climbing Kilimanjaro taught Vicki the importance of breaking down challenges into manageable steps. Entrepreneurship is a journey into the unknown, requiring adaptability and resilience. Surrounding oneself with supportive people is crucial in overcoming obstacles in business. Sales and marketing are essential for business survival, and learning these skills is vital for entrepreneurs. Never take success for granted; focus on sustainable business practices. Visualization can help maintain focus on long-term goals and aspirations. Dark moments in entrepreneurship are common, but perseverance is key to moving forward. Setting personal challenges can lead to growth and new opportunities. Upkill Website: Upskilledu.net Upskill : https://www.linkedin.com/company/64542913/admin/dashboard/ Guest Info : Vicky Hamilton https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-hamilton-b802872a/ Vicky Email : victoria.c.hamilton@gmail.com [victoria.c.hamilton@gmail.com] Recoil kneepads website: https://recoilkneepads.com

💤Rest Is Resistance: A Bold Conversation on Burnout and Boundaries

🎙️ Episode: Rest is Resistance – A Bold Conversation on Burnout & Boundaries with Marrissa McKool In this episode, we sit down with Marrissa McKool, MPH, burnout coach and former public health leader, for an unfiltered conversation on why rest is not a luxury—it’s resistance. 🛑💤 Marrissa shares her powerful perspective on breaking free from the hustle culture that fuels burnout and how setting unapologetic boundaries can transform both your professional and personal life. ✨ We’ll explore: * 🔄 Why traditional approaches to productivity often backfire * 💤 How rest becomes an act of resistance against systems that demand constant output * 🛠️ Practical strategies to reclaim your time, energy, and wellbeing * 🚪 The courage it takes to say “no” and honor your boundaries If you’ve ever felt trapped in the cycle of doing more, giving more, and resting less 😓➡️, this episode will challenge you to rethink success on your own terms. Marrissa’s story and strategies offer a bold reminder that rest is not weakness—it’s power. 💪🌿 Stay Connect with our Skills Without Borders Podcast ) Powered by UPSKILL : Upskilledu.net Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@upskill46 Connect Our Guest Marissa Mckool, MPH at : Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-mckool/ Website :https://publichealthcoach.com

Does a Degree Still Matter? The Skills Driving Today’s Digital-First Economy

In a world where technology moves faster than university curriculums, is a college degree still the golden ticket it once was? In this episode, we explore the economic shift that’s redefining how people build wealth and careers. From the decline of traditional career paths to the rise of skills-based hiring, we uncover what’s really driving success today. You’ll discover the high-earning, in-demand skills that thrive in a digital-first economy from data and AI to digital marketing and product innovation and learn how to position yourself for opportunity, whether you have a degree or not. The rules have changed. It’s time to play smarter.