Welcome to the Job Pod, where we explore the people, programs, and ideas shaping the workforce and business landscape.

Today, we're diving into the world of small business support across North Dakota, with a closer look at the Small Business Development Centers and the role they play in helping entrepreneurs start, grow, and succeed.

Dusty is joined by two guests who are at the heart of this work: Tiffany Ford, the State Director of the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers, along with Nicole Evans, the Center Director for the Grand Forks SBDC.

To set the stage—entrepreneurship is booming. In 2023 alone, more than 5 million new business applications were filed across the United States. Here in North Dakota, 3,199 new businesses opened between March 2023 and March 2024.

So what does it take to turn an idea into a successful business—and how can resources like the SBDC help along the way? Let's find out.

Find out more on the NDSBC Website: https://ndsbdc.org/index.html

Choosing a path after high school can feel overwhelming, but for many students, the journey becomes clearer with the right guidance. Today, we're diving into the vital role high school career advisors play in helping students become "Choice Ready" by the time they graduate—prepared to confidently pursue college, careers, or other opportunities.

We're joined by three Career Advisors who are dedicated professionals from the Grand Forks Public Schools and making a real difference in students' lives: Angela Beardemphl, Cara Davis, and Megan Folkert. Through their work, they empower students to explore their interests, build practical skills, and make informed decisions about their futures.

In this episode, we'll explore what it means to be Choice Ready, how career advisors support students along the way, and why this guidance is more important than ever in today's rapidly changing world.

We've all made mistakes in our lives. Bad decisions. Wrong turns. Moments we wish we could redo. But those mistakes don't have to define who we are — or limit where we're going.

On this episode, we're diving into a newer program from Job Service North Dakota called JP3 — a program built on second chances and new beginnings. JP3 is designed to help individuals move beyond their past choices and reconnect with meaningful employment and opportunity.

We'll begin with a message from Executive Director Pat Bertingolli and Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation Colby Braun, sharing how the JP3 program came to life and why this partnership matters.

Then, we'll head to our Fargo office to hear firsthand from JP3 client Cody and JP3 Advisor Trisha Thomas about the real impact this program is making.

Second chances. Real support. New opportunities.

Employers ~ You should also watch our webinar Breaking Barriers: Hiring Justice Involved Individuals.