City Chatt | Podcast on RSS.com

City Chatt

by City of Chattanooga

Season 1

Driving Workforce Development with Andrew Hudson

Join us on this episode of City Chatt as host Chrystal Houston sits down with Dr. Andrew Hudson, the City of Chattanooga’s Director of Workforce Development Strategy. We break down the new "One Chattanooga Works" initiative—a strategic, data-driven system designed to move beyond disconnected training and toward true economic mobility for Chattanoogans. From the launch of the Chattanooga.Works job marketplace to the shift toward helping prime-age workers (25–54) upskill for the local jobs of today and tomorrow, Andrew explains how the city is acting as a "strategic quarterback" to restore dignity, trust, and opportunity for every Chattanoogan. Redefining Workforce Development: Andrew explains the shift from a "train and pray" model—where individuals get certificates without clear job prospects—to a "job-first" approach that aligns training directly with current local labor market demand. The "One Chattanooga Works" Platform: An overview of the Chattanooga.Works digital marketplace, which serves as a central hub for employers, job seekers, and training partners to connect, matching individuals to open roles more efficiently. Targeting Key Sectors: Insights into the manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, quantum technology, and outdoor recreation sectors, and how the city is identifying specific short-term credentials needed to fill these high-growth roles. The "Strategic Quarterback" Model: How the city is fostering collaboration across public and private entities to create a system rather than just a series of isolated programs, ensuring resources are used effectively to support economic mobility. Do you know someone in Chattanooga who is looking for a job? Encourage anyone seeking employment or professional opportunities to visit Chattanooga.Works to create a profile and apply for jobs. Links Chattanooga.works Small Business Resource Center

Wastewater Wonders, with Ayanna Bronner and Bill Cannon

Ever wonder what happens once you flush? In this episode of City Chatt, we lift the lid on the Moccasin Bend Environmental Campus (MBEC) with PR Coordinator Ayanna Bronner and Energy Manager Bill Cannon. This isn't just about 💩—it’s a fascinating peek at the hidden infrastructure that protects Chattanooga’s public health, environment, and economy. Listen in as they discuss: The Science of Sustainability: How the wastewater team is pioneering cutting-edge linear generator technology to turn methane into electricity, aiming to offset 70 percent of the plant's energy needs by 2027. This change will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but will also save the city hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. Don’t Put it in Your Coffeepot: From the surprising items found in the filters (dentures? bowling balls?!) to transforming biosolids into miraculous "Moccasin Blend" fertilizer, there are surprising and amazing things happening at MBEC. A Hidden Gem: Learn about the massive 118-acre campus, the challenges of operating an aging facility 24/7, and why employees should consider a tour (despite the strong aroma). What’s Next: Get the details on the upgrades happening at MBEC, as well as special events in the fall. Listen to the latest episode of City Chatt to discover the remarkable, behind-the-scenes work keeping Chattanooga clean and sustainable, and gain a new appreciation for the men and women who keep it all flowing. Links: Wastewater Homepage Wastewater Facebook Page Wastewater on Instagram News: Chattanooga’s Moccasin Bend Environmental Campus partners with Mainspring Energy to convert wastewater methane into electricity

Beyond the Classroom with Chattanooga Head Start

Join us on this episode of City Chatt as we go beyond the classroom to explore the vital work of the Chattanooga Head Start program. Host Chrystal Houston sits down with Head Start team members Regina Bradford and Erica Jones to discuss how the department supports the whole child and their family to strengthen our community from the ground up. Listen to discover how this dedicated team is making a lasting impact in the community where they live, work, and play. Links: Chattanooga Head Start Application

Navigating Challenging Conversations with Philip Kurtz

We’ve all been there—that awkward moment in the office where you want to speak up but the tension feels too high. Do you lean in or lock up? Philip Kurtz, Director of Leadership and Professional Development, joins City Chatt to flip the script. He’s showing City of Chattanooga employees how to transform those uncomfortable workplace clashes into powerful opportunities for growth. Ready to find your voice? The next Navigating Challenging Conversations session is happening September 18, 2026, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at the WellAdvantage Center. Spots are limited, so register now or join the waitlist to be first in line for the next round. Need this for your whole crew? Email hrtraining@chattanooga.gov to request a custom session for your team.

My Summer Internship with the City of Chattanooga

Summer break can be a rich time of learning for students who seek out additional opportunities, such as the internship program offered at the City of Chattanooga. Three summer interns shared their reflections at the end of their internship to discuss what they've learned, what surprised and inspired them, and what comes next in their educational journey. Ally Creswell led the conversation with fellow interns De'Ja Hawkins and Justin Bush. Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.

Accessibility for All Chattanoogans, with Vanessa A. Jackson

In this episode of City Chatt, the podcast for City of Chattanooga employees, we talk all things accessibility and inclusion with Vanessa A. Jackson, Community Program Manager for the Office of Community Engagement. In her 26th year as a city employee, Vanessa knows the path to serving our neighborhoods effectively. She shares her strategies to engaging with all Chattanooga residents to provide great service. Vanessa also offers insights into the Mayor’s Council for Disability and what improving accessibility looks like for Chattanooga. Office of Community Engagement Mayor’s Council for Disability ADA Celebration Community Outreach Day

Art and Connection in the Scenic City, with Kate Kirnie

Discover why Chattanooga is more than just the "Scenic City"—it’s a canvas for connection. In this episode of City Chatt, the podcast for City of Chattanooga employees, host Chrystal Houston sits down with Kate Kirnie, the city’s manager of public art, to explore how murals, sculptures, and creative spaces are transforming our local landscape. From the vibrant new mural being installed on the City Hall annex building to innovative, multipurpose sidewalk projects, Kate breaks down the process behind “creative placemaking.” They discuss how public art serves as a vital antidote to digital stress, offering us a chance to pause, engage our senses, and foster social well-being. Whether you’re curious about how art tells the stories of our past or how it helps us imagine our future, this conversation highlights the community pride built into every piece of the collection. Listen in to learn how public art is turning ordinary spaces into destinations where we can all linger, connect, and thrive. Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts. Links: Office of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Chattanooga Public Art Artwork Archive

Engaging Chattanooga's Youth through Police Activity League, with Stg Robin Davenport

In this episode of City Chatt, the podcast for City of Chattanooga employees, Sgt Robin Davenport, Supervisor of Youth Programs at the Chattanooga Police Department, talks about his dream job, getting local youth engaged in positive ways with the department. Davenport plans regular activities like Cops and Bobbers and the Police Activity League competitions to connect kids and teens to officers. "The premise of it is to connect our officers and young people through friendly competitions, shared challenges, mentorship, hands-on learning so that the kids can see the human side of the badge and get real opportunities to grow," Davenport explained. Listen to the episode here or wherever you get your podcasts. For more information, reach out to Sgt. Davenport at rdavenport@chattanooga.gov. You can also see details about PAL on CPD's Facebook Page.

Building Community with Napierra Alexander

In this episode of City Chatt, the podcast for City of Chattanooga employees, we catch up with Napierra Alexander, public relations coordinator for Community Development. From promoting activities and services for youth to seniors, at community centers, pools, and more, Napierra's job takes her all over Chattanooga. Napierra shares some exciting developments on the horizon for community development, including new services and formats to better serve residents. Napierra also talks about her love of motorcycles, travel, and encouraging civic engagement among young people. Links: Community Centers Spring/Summer Activity Guide Community Health Family Justice Center Office of Family Empowerment

'Here to Change Lives' at the Office of Family Empowerment

In the latest episode of City Chatt, the podcast for City of Chattanooga employees, we talk to staff members at the Office of Family Empowerment. Rachel Howard, Rasha Salib, and Taneka Albert discuss the programs offered by OFE, the impact of these resources for people in need in the community, and the unique environment that keeps the small staff engaged in this important work. Links: Office of Family Empowerment Strategic Plan

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