Ep. 54: Carrie McDowell, From Retail to Lyft: Building Better Workforce Programs Through Connection

In this episode of Next in Line, Karina Jimenez sits down with Carrie McDowell, a contingent workforce leader at Lyft, to break down what it really takes to build and run successful workforce programs in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Carrie shares her unconventional journey from retail and recruiting into leading workforce strategy, and dives into the disconnect between staffing partners, MSPs, and buyers that many organizations still struggle with today. The conversation explores how AI is beginning to reshape the industry, why continuous learning is becoming the ultimate competitive advantage, and how leaders can better support the “middle layer” of professionals who are doing the day-to-day work but often lack access to key insights and development opportunities. Carrie also emphasizes the importance of curiosity, relationship-building, and understanding the full team behind any partnership not just the person who sells you in the first place. This episode is packed with real, practical insights for anyone working in staffing, recruiting, or workforce strategy and especially for those looking to grow into more strategic and advisory roles.