TradingUp
TradingUp is new podcast series produced by Journey12 in proud partnership with Carl Sandburg College. More than just a podcast, TradingUp is a front-row seat to the lived experiences of men and women who’ve chosen a path that’s too often overlooked—the skilled trades.
In each episode, we’ll shine a light on real people, telling real stories of how they’ve charted careers rooted in technical skill, resilience, and hands-on problem solving. These are not narratives of overnight success or viral fame, but of purpose forged in welding bays, machining shops, dental hygiene labs, and behind the dashboards of diesel engines—where grit, craftsmanship, and passion come together to build something lasting.
Through these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to trade up—not just in job titles or earning potential, but in personal fulfillment, community contribution, and the dignity of meaningful work. We’ll meet individuals who have discovered their calling through Sandburg’s programs and partnerships, and who now keep our communities moving forward—quietly, reliably, and often without fanfare.
At a time when the world seems increasingly tilted toward screens and abstraction, these stories remind us of something vital: that there is extraordinary value in the tangible, in the applied, and in the deeply human act of working with one’s hands. This series honors that work—and the people who do it.
TradingUp is here to challenge assumptions, celebrate possibility, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the trades and the institutions, like Sandburg, that make these journeys possible.
TradingUp
TRACY ENGSTROM ON THE MISSING LINK: Why soft skills matter more than you might think
You know, you can have all the technical knowledge in the world, a stellar GPA, and impressive credentials, but if you can't communicate effectively, work as part of a team, or present yourself professionally, you're missing that critical transmission that gets all that horsepower to the wheels. Today, I'm joined by Tracy Engstrom, Coordinator of Career Development at Carl Sandburg College, who has spent the last 15 years helping students bridge that gap between academic achievement and workplace success.
Tracy's story is fascinating—from growing up on a farm to working as a cosmetologist in North Dakota, to finding her true calling in career development. What I love about her approach is how she helps students see that they already have more going for them than they realize. Whether it's learning the CART method for storytelling in interviews, understanding why you shouldn't season your food before tasting it at a business dinner, or discovering that "good enough" can actually be better than perfectionism, Tracy brings a wealth of practical wisdom to every interaction.
We'll explore her Employability Skills Academy, dive into the importance of digital footprints in today's hiring landscape, and discover how farm-grown work ethic translates into professional success. Plus, Tracy shares some remarkable success stories that will remind you why this work matters so deeply. So settle in as we learn what it really takes to prepare students not just for jobs, but for careers that can transform their lives.