Best Officers Association Employment Podcasts (2025)

1
Leading a Thriving Region for All: How the LA Chamber is Reimagining Economic Growth with Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Episode 151 39:39

11d ago39:39

39:39

What does it take to rebuild one of the most complex regional economies in the world, while also preparing for the 2028 Olympics and a rapidly evolving workforce? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, to explore how LA’s business communit…

1
When Goods Move, the Economy Works: Rebuilding L.A. Through Ports, Policy, and People with Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach Episode 150 26:26

25d ago26:26

26:26

When global tariffs go into effect, how long before the impact hits workers in Los Angeles? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo welcomes back Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach, to discuss how one of the country’s busiest ports is helping to rebuild L.A.’s economy. He unpacks how the supply chai…

1
Building Belonging: How the YMCA Shapes Community Recovery with Victor Dominguez President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Episode 149 29:14

1M ago29:14

29:14

What if rebuilding a community starts with belonging? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Victor Dominguez, the first Latino President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, to explore how the Y is redefining itself as a Center for Community Well-Being. With over two decades of service, Victor shares how…

1
Ir. Ciputra, born Tjie Tjin Hoan (1931-2019), a major Indonesian property developer and later in his life a significant philanthropist 17:49

2M ago17:49

17:49

Like all of the interviews for my books you may find it strange that I find each one unique in different ways. This is the only interview where I was first interviewed by the subject and, having satisfied him of my bona fides, it is one of the most unusual interviews I have ever done. It extended over several hours as, once Ciputra got flowing with…

1
Mindset Over Skillset: Preparing Students for an AI-Powered Future with Tara Chklovski, founder and CEO of Technovation Episode 147 29:43

2M ago29:43

29:43

What if the biggest barrier to success in tech isn’t access, but mindset? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Tara Chklovski, founder and CEO of Technovation, about what it truly takes to thrive in an AI-driven world. Tara unpacks why resilience and adaptability are just as vital as technical skills, how simulation-ba…

1
HRUnpacked Episode 22- Improving staff digital maturity in 3rd sector with Guests Professor Marie Griffiths and Marc Harrison 50:46

3M ago50:46

50:46

Welcome to this podcast where we will be discussing Digital Maturity in the Third Sector. Charities have traditionally been slower to adopt digital innovations compared to their public and private counterparts and today we welcomeProfessor Marie Griffiths and Marc Harrison from Salford Business School who are working on a project to help charities …

1
Workforce, Reimagined: Building Inclusive Economies, Region by Region with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President at Jobs for the Future Episode 146 26:57

3M ago26:57

26:57

What if volunteering, raising kids, learning on the job, and real life experience counted just as much as a college degree? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President overseeing Job for the Future’s strategic presence in California, about what it really means to create a workforce that…

1
Rahul Bajaj (1938-2022) was Chairman Emeritus of the Bajaj Auto empire founded by his grandfather, Jamnalal Bajaj 29:09

3M ago29:09

29:09

Rahul Bajaj who passed away at the age of 83 in 2022 had a larger than life personality and, like many of those who I have interviewed for my life story books, was a clear business thinker. He was Chairman Emeritus of the Bajaj Auto empire founded by his grandfather, Jamnalal Bajaj and which was developed to become one of the largest Indian auto gr…

1
Julius Tahija (1916-2002) a leading Indonesian businessman and pre Independence politician and military officer. 24:55

3M ago24:55

24:55

Julius Tahija who died in 2002 at the age of 86 was an extraordinary man. As you will hear he followed a number of core principles which served him well throughout his life as a soldier (awarded the Netherlands Military Order of William during WW2 being that country's oldest and highest military honour) as a politician (holding several Ministerial …

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Careers After Incarceration: How Entrepreneurship Drives Successful Reentry with Quan Huynh Episode 145 36:09

3M ago36:09

36:09

The school-to-prison pipeline is a complex and damaging system that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly people of color. This pipeline refers to the policies and practices that push students out of school and into the criminal justice system, creating long-term impacts on individuals and communities. Quan Huynh, Execut…

1
Ela Bhatt (1933 – 2022) founded the Self-Employed Women's Association of India (SEWA) in 1972. From humble beginnings it now has over 3.2 million members. 48:08

3M ago48:08

48:08

Ela Bhatt was an absolutely extraordinary women who passed away in 2022 at the age of 89. The Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) she founded against strong opposition now has over 3.2 million members across 18 states in India. SEWA advances the rights of women workers in the informal economy such as those selling fruit and vegetables in the s…

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Professor Bala V Balachandran (1937-2021) was the founder, chairman and dean emeritus of Great Lakes Institute of Management in Chennai, India 31:48

3M ago31:48

31:48

Following receiving his undergraduate and post graduate degrees in Maths and Statistics at Annamalai University in his birth State of Tamil Nadhu, a young Bala Balachandran followed the path of many bright young Indians in the 1960s and moved to the US where he had a very successful academic and management consulting career ending as Professor Emer…

1
HRUnpacked Episode 21- The Healing Process: A Restorative Approach to Resolving Workplace Disputes- Guests Tracy Boylin and Rebecca Foreman 1:06:18

3M ago1:06:18

1:06:18

Welcome to this podcast where we will be discussing The Healing Process, which was established to support current and former NHS Highland employees affected by bullying. Based on “Healing Principles” agreed upon by NHS Highland executives, trade unions, and whistleblowers, The Healing Process provided a non-adversarial avenue for addressing concern…

1
How Educators Can Guide & Inspire Students to Thrive In An Evolving Workforce with Jasmine Star Episode 144 40:29

4M ago40:29

40:29

What will it take to prepare today’s students for leadership in a workforce that’s evolving faster than ever before? Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator, challenges educators and leaders at the Pasadena City College Future of Work Conference to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace a paradigm shift. She underlines the importance of equip…

1
Alluri Venkata Sathyanarayana Raju (born 18 April 1937), commonly known as AVS Raju is the founder chairman of Hyderabad headquartered Nagarjuna Construction Company Ltd. 19:18

4M ago19:18

19:18

AVS Raju (born 1937) is certainly one of the most unique businessmen I have met. Not only is he obsessed with punctuality in a country where being on time is the exception rather than the rule but he is also a deeply spiritual man and a devout follower of the late His Holiness Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba who passed away at the age of 85 in 2011. S…

1
Narayana Murthy, born 1946, is one of the seven co-founders of Infosys, the leading global technology company 21:07

4M ago21:07

21:07

Nagavara Ramarao Narayana Murthy (born 20 August 1946) is an Indian businessman. He is one of the seven co-founders of the leading global technology company, Infosys and was at different times its chairman, chief executive officer, president, and chief mentor before retiring and becoming chairman emeritus. Murthy has been listed among the 12 greate…

1
HRUnpacked Episode 20- Menopause in the workplace- Guest Emma Neville - Founder at This Is Me 44:12

4M ago44:12

44:12

Welcome to this podcast where we will be discussing Menopause in the workplace, which under current legislation, is covered under the Equality Act 2010 and the Health and Safety at Work Acts. We are delighted to welcome Guest Emma Neville - Founder at This Is Me- Emma is the founder of the online community This Is Me, a person-centred counsellor, a…

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Contracts, Crises, & the Cost of Survival: LA’s Hospitality Fight with Kurt Petersen, Co-President Unite Here Episode 143 27:38

4M ago27:38

27:38

What if the 2028 Olympics didn’t just bring medals, but a housing revolution? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Kurt Peterson, Co-President of Unite Here Local 11, to explore the mounting pressures facing hospitality workers in Los Angeles, and the explosive opportunity that the 2028 Olympics might represent. Pe…

1
HRUnpacked Episode 19-The Employer Confidence Index 2025 with guest Alan Price - Group Chief Operating Officer at Peninsula UK 51:26

4M ago51:26

51:26

Welcome to this podcast where we will be reviewing Peninsula’s Employer Confidence Index report, taking a look at some of the key issues and challenges that businesses around the world are facing. We are delighted to welcome Alan Price , Group Chief Operating Officer at Peninsula UK You can download the Peninsula’s Employer Confidence Index report …

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Championing Women Entrepreneurs in Male-Dominated Industries with Corinne Goble, CEO of Association of Women's Business Centers Episode 142 32:16

5M ago32:16

32:16

Understanding women entrepreneurs’ diverse funding needs is essential and women’s business centers play a vital role, especially in times of crisis. More than just financial support, these centers offer guidance, community, and critical resources to help women navigate challenges and grow their businesses. Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of W…

1
Professor MS Swaminathan (1925-2023) - the father of India's green revolution 30:23

5M ago30:23

30:23

Professor Swaminathan died at the age of 98 in 2023. He was an extraordinary man and it is said his skills in genetic engineering and his powers of persuasion made famine an unfamiliar word in Asia. There is a memorable story of his encounter with the formidable Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who initially refused to allow him to take up what for him…

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HRUnpacked Episode 18- An update on the Employment Rights Bill - Potential labour law changes in 2025 and 2026 with Guest Nicola Mullineux - Associate Director - HR Content at Peninsula 54:53

5M ago54:53

54:53

Welcome to this podcast where we will be reviewing the Employment Rights Bill, taking a look at some of the key employment law changes made as well as prospective changes over the next 12 months. We are delighted to welcome Nicola Mullineux , Associate Director - HR Content at Peninsula This podcast is based on the amended Bill as it was published …

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Sengkham Phinith (1940-2022), civil engineer and former Vice Minister of Construction of Lao PDR 13:08

5M ago13:08

13:08

Sengham Phinith was born on 2 December, 1940 near the Lao capital, Vientianne. He trained as a civil engineer rising to Vice Minister of Construction before being falsely accused, dismissed and exiled to a remote region for four years. The way he dealt with this cruel experience is inspirational. On his release in 1988 he founded a civil engineerin…

1
Shahnaz Husain (born 1941) is the founder of The Shahnaz Husain Group of India which is internationally renowned for organic beauty care, based on Ayurveda, blending ancient traditions with advanced techniques ... 30:33

5M ago30:33

30:33

Shahnaz Husain has built an enormous health care business from very humble beginnings starting in her New Delhi home. It is an extraordinary life where she was born into a conservative Muslim family, married at 15 and became a mother at 16, spent time in Tehran before being ordered to return to India by her father when he heard that Shahnaz and her…

1
Empowering Individuals Through Hands-On Work Experience with Tim Aldinger, Vice President of Workforce and Climate Innovation Episode 141 44:01

5M ago44:01

44:01

How can work-based learning shape the future of education and careers? Tim Aldinger, Vice President of Workforce and Climate Innovation at Foundation for California Community Colleges (FoundationCCC), explores how combining real-world experience with classroom learning boosts talent development, retention, and industry collaboration. Initiatives li…

1
Vijaypat Singhania (born 1938) is a member of the prominent Indian Singhania family having been chairman and managing director of the leading textile company, Raymond Group 38:24

5M ago38:24

38:24

Vijaypat Singhania, often known as VPS, has led an extraordinary life which is unique in many ways. He was born into a prominent and successful Marwari "joint family" whose original business was founded over a century ago, experienced an unhappy childhood at the hands of a "wicked stepmother", was betrothed at 12 to his future wife who was 9 at the…

1
U Nay Oke was born into a prominent Burmese family in 1943 and is the founder of a well known English language school 1:08:34

5M ago1:08:34

1:08:34

There is a chapter on U Nay Oke's life in my South East Asian Added Value book. However, I also interviewed U Nay Oke a few years ago for my Myanmar Oral History podcast ( https://myanmaroralhistoryprojectlifestories.buzzsprout.com) and, although it is a far longer interview than what is covered on the chapter on his life in the book, I thought you…

1
Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of Clean Energy Economy Construction with Kate Gordon, CEO of CA FWD Episode 140 34:50

5M ago34:50

34:50

What does it take to build a clean energy economy? Kate Gordon, CEO of CA FWD (California Forward), believes it’s about more than just new technology—it’s about putting communities first, preparing for the emerging career opportunities, and making sustainability a part of everyday decision-making. Creating a greener, more resilient future requires …

1
Phu Kok An, founder of Anco Brothers Cambodia (born 1954) 22:11

6M ago22:11

22:11

Okhna (Lord) Phu Kok An has had a remarkable life. He successfully navigated the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime and the life threatening risks of being killed by pirates when he was involved in the early days of smuggling goods from Thailand to Vietnam during the US trade embargo. He then moved into the cigarette business and for many decades ha…

1
Driving Diversity & Equity in the Sports Tech Industry with Albert Basilio, CEO & Founder at Launchball Episode 139 29:05

6M ago29:05

29:05

What drives innovation and diversity in sports and technology? Albert Basilio, founder of Launchball, is merging these industries to create immersive experiences while championing inclusion. He sheds light on the barriers Latino founders face in securing capital and discusses the power of support networks in entrepreneurial success. Basilio also ex…

1
Introduction to podcast on life stories of leading South East Asian and Indian businessmen and women 1:45

6M ago1:45

1:45

I have written three life story books - two on India and one on South East Asia. The first being Added Value - the life stories of leading South East Asian business people published in 1999 by Murmeli , the second being Added Value - the life stories of Indian business leaders published in 2010 by Roli Books (https://rolibooks.com/) and the third b…

1
G M Rao, Founder and Chairman of GMR Group, India (born 1950) 29:34

6M ago29:34

29:34

Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao (often known as "GMR") is the founder and Chairman of GMR Group, a major Indian conglomerate with businesses in a range of sectors such as airports (e.g. Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa and Medan), Energy (a mix of coal, gas and renewables), Transportation (e.g highways), Urban Infrastructure and Aero Services - see https://www.gmrgr…

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Eka Tjipta Widjaja, Indonesian - founder and chairman of the Sinar Mas Group (1921-2019) 23:10

6M ago23:10

23:10

I interviewed Eka Tjipta Widjaja around 1995 when he was in his mid 70s and had already started handing over day to day running of Sinar Mas (https://www.sinarmas.com/en/) to his sons. His was a remarkable life and I must admit I was amazed at the ingenuity and business acumen he demonstrated from an early age and how he worked his way through his …

1
Captain Chittarath Poovakkatt Krishnan Nair, Indian (1922-2014), the founder of the Leela Hotel Group 19:50

6M ago19:50

19:50

Captain Krishnan Nair led an extraordinary life as you will hear from the excerpts I will read from the chapter on his life in Added Value - the life stories of Indian business leaders (published 2010 by Roli Books - https://rolibooks.com/). He founded The Leela Hotel Group (https://www.theleela.com/). Please note that these interviews took place s…

1
Yusuf Khwaja Hamied (born 25 July 1936) is Non Executive Chairman of Cipla, a major Indian generic pharmaceuticals company founded by his father Khwaja Abdul Hamied in 1935. 39:40

6M ago39:40

39:40

Yusuf Khwaja Hamied (born 25 July 1936) is Non Executive Chairman of Cipla (https://www.cipla.com/), a major generic pharmaceuticals company founded by his father Khwaja Abdul Hamied in 1935. I interviewed him around 2005 in his office in Mumbai. His story appears in my first Indian life story book, "Added Value - the life stories of Indian busines…

1
Henry Sy, Founder of SM Investments/SM Group of the Philippines (1934-2019) 14:18

6M ago14:18

14:18

Henry Sy, the founder of SM Investments/SM Group (https://www.sminvestments.com/) started with a small shoe shop in Manila and built the business into the largest shopping mall business in the Philippines and China along with many department stores, supermarkets and grocery stores. The business also includes Banco de Oro and numerous real estate pr…

1
Rebuilding After The LA Fires: A Comprehensive Guide to the SBA’s Disaster Support with Julie Clowes, Director, Los Angeles District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration Episode 138 28:24

6M ago28:24

28:24

How can small businesses rebuild after a crisis like the recent LA fires? The Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in recovery; offering financial assistance, business counseling, and disaster relief. Many independent contractors and home-based businesses don’t realize they qualify for SBA loans, but resources are available for …

1
Unapologetic Leadership: Driving Positive Change Through Diversity in Higher Education with Dr. Keith Curry, President of Compton College & CEO of the Compton Community College District Episode 137 47:00

6M ago47:00

47:00

What does it take to transform higher education and create lasting change for underrepresented students? Dr. Keith Curry, President of Compton College and CEO of the Compton Community College District, shares his passion for equity, detailing how initiatives like Black Student Success Week and Senate Bill 1348 are redefining what it means to suppor…

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Stay Ahead of the Game: Aligning Education with Industry Demands with Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of the Rose Bowl Stadium Episode 136 24:09

6M ago24:09

24:09

What skills will students need to lead the charge for events like the LA28 Olympics and the FIFA World Cup? Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of the iconic Rose Bowl stadium and the first Latina in an executive role at the Rose Bowl Operating Company, discusses the importance of aligning educational programs with industry demands to prepare fut…

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Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Transforming Education for the Next Generation with Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator Episode 135 40:29

9M ago40:29

40:29

What will it take to prepare today’s students for leadership in a workforce that’s evolving faster than ever before? Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator, challenges educators and leaders at the Pasadena City College Future of Work Conference to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace a paradigm shift. She underlines the importance of equip…

1
Empowering Students for Competitive Industries: What You Missed at PCC’s 2024 Future of Work Conference Episode 134 48:46

9M ago48:46

48:46

Pasadena City College (PCC) is enhancing its focus on aligning education with industry demands through partnerships, equity initiatives, and increased internship opportunities, particularly in the sports and entertainment sectors. Emphasizing sustainability and athlete mental health, these efforts aim to prepare students for emerging trends and add…

1
Blending Community & Global Reach in the Modern Workforce With Julie Uhrman, Co-Founder & President, Angel City Episode 133 44:59

9M ago44:59

44:59

How can today’s workforce be prepared to connect with a global audience while still nurturing real, local community ties? At Pasadena City College’s Future of Work Conference, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo’s conversation with Julie Uhrman, co-founder of Angel City FC, offers a fresh perspective on addressing this challenge. Angel City isn’t just changing th…

1
Tackling Systemic Racism in Education Head-On With Alysia Bell, President of UNITE-LA Episode 132 37:36

9M ago37:36

37:36

Connecting education and industry is vital for preparing students for real-world careers. Organizations such as UNITE LA bridge school-to-career pathways, focusing on equitable transitions for marginalized communities. Central to this is a strong commitment to equity and anti-racism, integrating these values into daily practices. Alysia Bell, Presi…

1
The Winning Edge: Multidisciplinary Skills for Tomorrow’s Workforce With Matthew Cacciato, President & CEO, Los Angeles Sports Council Episode 131 28:27

10M ago28:27

28:27

The sports industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce, offering a range of opportunities for individuals with diverse skills. Matt Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council, works to bridge the gap between sports and business in Southern California. With over 3,500 colleges featuring sports business curricula, there’s …

1
Building LA’s Future: Small Businesses, Global Events, & Workforce Evolution with Stephen Cheung, CEO & President of LAEDC & President of WTCLA Episode 130 38:16

10M ago38:16

38:16

Los Angeles thrives on unity, innovation, and collaboration for economic growth. In this episode, we explore the intersection of major global events and local economic growth with returning guest Stephen Cheung, President of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), and the World Trade Center Los Angeles (WTCLA). As LA prepar…

1
Why Strategic Storytelling Is the New Corporate Currency with Aleya Harris, Speaker, Strategic Storytelling Consultant, Bestselling Author Episode 129 35:18

11M ago35:18

35:18

In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, organizations strive to stand out and retain top talent. One powerful way to achieve this is through storytelling. By crafting narratives that resonate with employees, leaders can foster a sense of belonging, purpose, and motivation within their teams. Aleya Harris, founder and CEO of The Ev…

1
HRUnpacked Episode 16 - How to create a decent organisation culture, attract good talent and develop brand appeal with Laura Kelly, Head of Talent and Culture at GG Hospitality. 50:44

11M ago50:44

50:44

Welcome to this podcast where we will be discussing the topic of creating a decent organisation culture, attract good talent and develop brand appeal We are delighted to welcome Laura Kelly, Head of Talent and Culture at GG Hospitality. Laura has 17 year’s experience in the hospitality industry and has significant experience within HR across multip…

1
Redefining Higher Education: Making Knowledge Accessible to Everyone with Shai Reshef, President of University of the People Episode 128 30:23

11M ago30:23

30:23

Higher education is a gateway to a brighter future, offering individuals the opportunity to expand their knowledge, skills, and career prospects. However, access to higher education has often been limited by factors such as cost, location, and time constraints. Shai Reshef, President of University of the People, believes education is a right, not a…

1
Unlocking Community Power: How Women’s Business Centers Create Thriving Entrepreneurs with Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI & CA WBC Network Chair Episode 127 35:20

12M ago35:20

35:20

How do we dismantle the entrenched systemic barriers that hold back so many in the business world? The answer lies in access to capital, information, and networking. Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI, points out that women, in particular, encounter systemic challenges, like unequal access to funding and exclusion from critical networks, makin…

1
The Future is Working: Addressing The Skills Gap in an Evolving Workforce with Shelley Hoss, Chief Executive Officer at Orange County Community Foundation Episode 126 43:20

12M ago43:20

43:20

Workforce development initiatives are crucial in preparing individuals for the ever-evolving job market. As industries change and technology advances, both employees and employers need to adapt to these shifts. But where does one start? How can new workers ensure that they’re equipped to thrive in the future workforce? Since May 2000, Shelley Hoss …

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