Forget the idea that AI is replacing workers — STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) are proving they’re essential to the future of technology. And in the explosive kickoff to Season 2 of the Paperless Pathways Podcast, we’re breaking down exactly how.

Whether you’re a STAR navigating your career, an employer building talent pipelines, or a tech leader shaping the future of work, this conversation will spark insight, inspiration, and action.

What we discuss:

0:00 Intro

3:00 AI revolution and adoption

5:20 Transitioning into AI

7:30 STAR recourses (ad)

8:45 How has AI changed thinking

11:08 How to stand out in the fray

17:24 Practical AI skill building

20:47 STARs guide powered by Career Village (ad)

22:03 LaShana speaks on her STAR story + Transferable skills

26:40 Context is KING

27:00 Mentors, breaks, and human stories

32:00 Advice from Fahz to Fahz

34:00 Closing

35:22 Recap of Episode 1

35:52 Follow up with Fahz

36:30 Follow the movement + whats next

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Let’s build a more inclusive, skills-first future—together.

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Follow the movement:

https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/

https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

In the final episode of our pilot season, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools for STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes): building authentic connections and personal brands that open doors. Host LaShana, Chair of the STARs Advisory Council, is joined by Marsay McKinney, Lateria Brown, and Kelly Powers for a rich conversation on how STARs can confidently communicate their value, elevate their visibility, and grow their networks with purpose.

This episode breaks down what it means to go beyond traditional networking — into networthing — building relationships that are rooted in shared value, strategic collaboration, and long-term impact. You’ll hear practical tips on how to tell your story, craft your brand, and make meaningful professional connections in today’s job market.

Whether you’re a STAR navigating your next move or a workforce professional looking to empower diverse talent, this episode offers real talk, actionable tools, and inspiration to move forward.

🌟 This marks the season finale of our pilot series — but we’re just getting started. More Paperless Pathways are on the horizon. Stay tuned!

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep5&utm_source=description&utm_medium=cohost&utm_content=&utm_term=

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

Changing careers can feel overwhelming, but STARs (workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes) have the power to pivot and thrive in new industries successfully.

In this episode, host LaShana is accompanied by Rose Francois and STARs Marsay McKinney, and Malinda Venable, professionals who have navigated career transitions firsthand. They’ll share their journeys, challenges, and strategies that helped them break into new fields. From understanding why career shifts are becoming more common to recognizing transferable skills, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration for all STARs considering a new path.

Whether you're making a big move yourself or a hiring manager looking to support career changes, this discussion will highlight how embracing paperless pathways can benefit both individuals and the workforce as a whole. Tune in to learn how STARs are tearing through barriers and stepping into new opportunities with confidence!

Paperless Pathways Podcast: http://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep4&utm_source=description&utm_medium=cohost&utm_content=&utm_term=

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journeys of STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) who are thriving in diverse industries, proving that there are many paths to success. From tech and education to transportation and social work, these STARs are making an impact and demonstrating the value of skills, experience, and determination in the workforce.

Host LaShana Lewis sits down with guests Natalia Lara, Barbara Leach, Malinda Venable, and Zane Richards to discuss how they’ve navigated career transitions, leveraged transferable skills, and expanded opportunities in their fields. Their stories highlight the importance of recognizing talent in all its forms and ensuring that opportunity isn’t limited by outdated hiring practices.

Whether you're a STAR looking for inspiration, an employer seeking untapped talent, or a supporter of equitable career opportunities, this episode showcases how STARs are tearing through industries and reshaping the workforce—alongside all professionals who bring value, regardless of how they got there.

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/?utm_campaign=paperlesspathways_ep3&utm_source=CoHost&utm_medium=description&utm_content=&utm_term=

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

In this episode of the Paperless Pathways Podcast, we’re proving that there’s no single path to success! Host LaShana dives into real stories from STARs (workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes) who are breaking barriers and building thriving careers—through their paperless pathway.

✨ Rising STARs: Kelly Powers & Ivan Santillan from Opportunity@Work, open up about the challenges and game-changing moments that shaped their careers.

🌟 Shining STARs: LaFawn Davis, Chief People & Sustainability Officer at Indeed, shares how STARs in leadership roles are changing the game for future talent.

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

Jobcase: STARs Community

In this debut episode, host LaShana, STARs Advisory Council Chair and, speaks with Byron, CEO and co-founder of Opportunity@Work, about the origins of the skills-first movement, the Tear the Paper Ceiling campaign, and the creation of the STARs acronym (Skilled Through Alternative Routes).

They discuss Opportunity@Work’s mission to unlock opportunities for over 70 million skilled workers and how employers can value skills gained through work experience, military service, bootcamps, and on-the-job training, rather than relying solely on college degrees.

Paperless Pathways Podcast: https://pages.opportunityatwork.org/paperless-pathways/

Follow us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opptyatwork/ & https://www.instagram.com/tearthepaperceiling/,

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork

Jobcase: STARs Community