Innovation Unplugged

In Episode 84, host Houston Blackwood meets with Doug Layton, who shares his extraordinary journey from serving a 20-year prison sentence to rebuilding his life through hard work, humility, and second chances.Doug opens up about his struggles, the events that led to a life sentence, and the moment everything changed. After walking out of prison, he faced the challenges of reentry head-on like securing his first job, taking on side work, and eventually earning his CDL.His story is a powerful reminder of resilience, redemption, and the opportunities that open when someone is willing to start again. This episode shines a light on what’s possible when communities support second chances and individuals commit to rebuilding their lives one step at a time.

In Episode 83, hosts Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton talk with Perry Goins, Staff Development Manager with the Alabama Department of Mental Health, about how Alabama is strengthening and preparing its mental health workforce through modern training and statewide partnerships. Perry highlights how the department is using the Skills for Success Mental Health Worker course offered through Shelton State Community College, a hybrid training model that blends online modules with real-world scenarios. This course has improved retention, strengthened morale, and created a consistent skill set for new employees entering Alabama’s mental health facilities.The episode also looks ahead at how technology, early career exposure, and continued innovation will help prepare the next generation of mental health professionals across Alabama.

In Episode 82, host Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton share how the ACCS Innovation Center’s Career Readiness division is transforming career education across Alabama.What began as a small pilot has grown to reach 124 of Alabama’s 143 school systems, where students can now use Skills for Success courses for career exploration and as a way to earn their Career Readiness Indicators (CRIs).This episode highlights how the Innovation Center’s Career Readiness division continues to expand opportunities for students across the state, preparing the next generation for success in both college and the workforce.

In Episode 81, host Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton sit down with Ryan Ales to share his inspiring story of career transformation through taking the Skills for Success Fiber Optics Technician and Installer course with Coastal Alabama Community College.After years in the restaurant industry with long hours and little stability, Ryan decided it was time for change. After completing the course, he gained the skills and confidence to transition into the IT field and landed a job with Uniti Fiber.Ryan shares how the program’s flexibility, practical training, and support helped him build a career that provides not only financial stability but also more time with his daughter and a better quality of life. His story is a reminder that the right training and the courage to start over can open doors to new opportunities.

In Episode 80, host Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton talk with John Joseph, Executive Director of the E Center in Decatur, Alabama, about how entrepreneurship and workforce development work together to create opportunity.John shares how the E Center helps business owners turn ideas into reality through coaching, networking, and access to investors. He also highlights the importance of humility, perseverance, and learning from failure as key traits of successful entrepreneurs.The conversation offers a practical look at what it takes to launch and sustain a business, showing how determination, skill, and the right support can turn potential into progress.