Regional Planning Solutions

Fall Prevention – Expert Strategies for Safer Aging

Triad Regional Connections Podcast Episode: Fall Prevention – Expert Strategies for Safer Aging In this episode of the Triad Regional Connections Podcast, host Audra Adams is joined by experts from the Piedmont Triad Regional Council and Winston-Salem State University to discuss one of the most important topics for older adults and their families: fall prevention. Guests include: ● Christina People, Long-Term Care Ombudsman at PTRC (6 years, 8 months with the organization) ● Sara Miligarese, Physical Therapist and Professor in the Health and Science Program at Winston-Salem State University ● Megan Edwards-Collins, Occupational Therapist and Professor in the Health and Science Program at Winston-Salem State University Key Topics Covered: ● What is fall prevention, and why are we talking about it? ● Why Falls Prevention Matters ● Risk Factors for Falls ● Practical Fall Prevention Tips ● Addressing Fear of Falling ● Who Should be Paying Attention? Whether you’re a senior, caregiver, family member, healthcare professional, or community leader, this conversation delivers actionable insights, evidence-based strategies, and local resources to help reduce fall risks and promote independence and confidence in daily living. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults—learn how to prevent them effectively. Episode Links & Resources: ● Piedmont Triad Regional Council Area Agency on Aging: https://www.ptrc.org/services/area-agency-on-aging [https://www.ptrc.org/services/area-agency-on-aging] ● Piedmont Area Falls Prevention Coalition: https://www.ptrc.org/services/area-agency-on-aging/age-well/piedmont-area-falls-prevention-coalition [https://www.ptrc.org/services/area-agency-on-aging/age-well/piedmont-area-falls-prevention-coalition] ● Winston-Salem State University Health & Science Programs Triad Regional Connections Podcast is brought to you by the Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC).

Regional Planning Solutions

Triad Regional Connections Podcast: Regional Planning Insights with Carter Spradling, AICP In this episode of the Triad Regional Connections Podcast, hosts Audra Adams and Lamar Powell welcome Carter Spradling, AICP, Assistant Planning Director at the Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC). Carter shares his journey with PTRC, explains what the prestigious AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) designation really means and why it matters, and breaks down the essential role planning plays at the regional level. He also discusses how planning shapes land use, transportation, economic development, and quality of life across the Piedmont Triad — and shares recent examples of the impactful work underway. The conversation wraps with Carter’s inspiring vision for what an ideal future for the region could look like. Whether you’re a planner, local government leader, community advocate, or resident who cares about smart growth and regional collaboration, this episode offers valuable perspective on the people and processes building the Triad’s future. Tune in now to hear how thoughtful planning is helping shape a stronger, more connected Piedmont Triad. https://www.ptrc.org/services/regional-planning

PTRC - Regional Workforce and Economic Development

Triad Regional Connections PodcastWorkforce and Economic DevelopmentIn this episode of the Triad Regional Connections Podcast, co-hosts Audra Adams and Lamar Powell welcome Wendy Walker-Fox, Director, and Jessica Raby, Assistant Director of Workforce & Economic Development at the Piedmont Triad Regional Council.Wendy and Jessica walk through how their team supports job seekers, employers, justice-involved individuals, and regional economic growth across the 12-county Piedmont Triad. They highlight NCWorks Career Centers, the Mobile Career Fleet, grantwriting and technical assistance, reentry services in Alamance and Forsyth counties, and strategic initiatives that connect people to training and opportunity.Whether you're a job seeker, business owner, community partner, or simply curious about the resources available through PTRC, this episode is full of practical information you can use.https://www.ptrc.org/services/workforce-development [https://www.ptrc.org/services/workforce-development]

Apprenticeship & Workforce Programs

Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC) Apprenticeship & Workforce Programs help employers build a skilled local talent pipeline while giving employees (and job seekers) paid,hands-on training combined with classroom instruction for in-demand careers.For Employers: PTRC’s Business Services team (including Jacob Thompson) connects businesses with customized training solutions, Registered Apprenticeship opportunities,on-the-job training (OJT) grants, and partnerships with community colleges and K-12 schools. This reduces recruitment costs, builds loyalty, and helps fill critical skills gaps in key industries across the 12-county Piedmont Triad region.For Employees/Apprentices: Participants earn while they learn through structured programs leading to industry-recognized credentials, certifications, or degrees. It offers clear career pathways with mentorship and progressive wage increases.In this episode of the Triad Regional Connections Podcast with co-hosts Audra Adams and Lamar Powell, Jacob Thompson dives into how these programs work in practice, real successstories, and practical steps for both employers and individuals to get involved. Whether you're a business leader looking to grow your workforce or someone seeking a rewarding career path without massive student debt, this conversation highlights actionable opportunities in the Piedmont Triad.Watch now to learn how apprenticeships are strengthening our regional economy!

Transportation Safety Action Plan

In this episode of the Triad Regional Connections Podcast, brought to you by the Piedmont Triad Regional Council, hosts Audra Adams and Lamar Powell sit down with two local transportation leaders to discuss the critical work happening to make our roads safer for everyone. Andrew Edmonds, Transportation Planning Administrator for the City of High Point and Director of the High Point Metropolitan Planning Organization, and Carter Spradling, Assistant Regional Planning Director with the Piedmont Triad Regional Council, join us to explore the Transportation Safety Action Plan. Tune in as they break down the regional approach to reducing traffic crashes, fatalities, and serious injuries across the Triad. From data-driven strategies and priority corridors to community engagement and innovative safety solutions, this conversation highlights how local and regional partners are working together to build a safer transportation network for all users—drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and families. Whether you're a planner, elected official, or concerned resident, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most important issues facing our communities today. Links: https://www.ptrc.org [https://www.ptrc.org] https://www.ptrc.org/services/regional-planning/transportation [https://www.ptrc.org/services/regional-planning/transportation] https://www.highpointnc.gov [https://www.highpointnc.gov] https://www.highpointnc.gov/186/Transportation [https://www.highpointnc.gov/186/Transportation]