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What happens when a six-month holiday turns into a 14-year life chapter? You pack a bag for a gap year in the snow and accidentally stumble into a whole new world - a career, a husband, a mortgage, and three children. On paper, it’s the fairytale expat dream. But eventually, the adventure stops feeling like freedom and starts feeling like distance. Georgia Louise was living that dream as a ski patroller in Canada. However, when the global pandemic hit, her perception of being "a flight away" changed to feeling "a world away". That was the moment of the pivot: The realisation that to move forward, she had to go back to where she started - but as a completely different person. In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson talks to Georgia about the decision to pack up over a decade of life into seven suitcases to chase a dream she’d been ignoring for years: To become a nurse. Georgia opens up about the "messy middle" of relocating a family of five to regional New South Wales with no credit rating, no local employment history and nothing but a heartfelt letter to convince a landlord to take a chance on them. We unpack the reality of dismantling a comfortable life to start from scratch, the humility of sitting in a university lecture hall with 18-year-olds as a mature-age student and how Georgia uses her thriving social media platform to fund her studies. Join us for a conversation about the logistics of moving a family across the globe when the pull of home becomes too loud to ignore. Get ready to be inspired by a woman who is proving that it is never too late to go back to school. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Tim Abbott Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best Audio Producer: Thom Lion This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you need a gap year from real life? When you’ve worked hard, climbed the corporate ladder and saved every penny to buy your first apartment in the big city, only to find yourself in a trap? Tim Abbott was living the quintessential city life. By 28, he had cracked the Sydney property market, secured a stable corporate career, and built a thriving side hustle making memes for over 100,000 Instagram followers. But behind the scenes, a shocking $11,500 quarterly strata bill and the crushing weight of the cost-of-living crisis brought him to breaking point. Tim realised he was "cosplaying adulthood" in a life he couldn't afford and didn't enjoy. So, he engineered what he calls a "Financial Gap Year." In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson speaks with Tim about his decision to trade his laptop for a tractor. Tim explains how he quit his job in digital marketing, rented out his apartment, and moved to a rural farm in Queensland to work on a timber plantation. Now, living in a caravan and cutting his expenses by 90%, he is on a mission to regain his financial freedom with a massive goal in mind: To save $100,000 in just 12 months. We unpack the "ego death" of leaving a "cool" city identity for high-vis and manual labour, the unexpected joy found in a simple existence, and how to tell the difference between what society wants for you and what you actually want for yourself. Join us for an honest and hilarious conversation about taking back control of your own timeline. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Tim Abbott Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best Audio Producer: Thom Lion This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you have the ‘perfect’ corporate job at a top-tier firm with a clear path to partnership, but deep down, you feel a pull towards something else? For Alex Marks, the founder of New York’s cult-favourite ‘Sushi Counter’, that pull wasn’t just a distraction - it was the catalyst for trading a high-flying legal career for a world of total uncertainty. Before she was serving thousands of rolls a day, Alex was a successful M&A lawyer at the top-tier firm Herbert Smith Freehills. She loved the late nights, the adrenaline, and the "in the trenches" camaraderie. But a dream transfer to New York became the catalyst for her pivot when she faced an immediate culture clash. Realising the US corporate world was an "individual sport" she didn't want to play, Alex was faced with a choice: Stay in a job that wasn't a fit, or risk it all. She chose risk. Pouring her entire $100,000 USD life savings into an idea, she quit her job and, a week later, signed a lease for a tiny shop to sell the Australian-style sushi she couldn't find anywhere in the city. In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson speaks with Alex about this massive industry leap. They unpack the "messy middle" of her entire journey: From the "primitive" Excel model that convinced her to take the leap, to the humbling reality of hand-filling 50,000 soy sauce fish with a syringe in her living room. Alex shares the unfiltered story of how she navigated intense online backlash just one week after opening and how she scaled from a team of one (plus a supportive boyfriend) to a staff of 30. Join us for a raw and practical lesson in naive optimism, a look into the grit required to build a business from the ground up and a powerful reminder that sometimes, the fear of regret is far scarier than the fear of failure. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Alex Marks Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best Audio Producer: Thom Lion This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you're not just climbing the ladder, but standing at the very top? For Lize Ratliff, that meant achieving her dream job as Head of Podcasts at Mamamia, after 10 years hustling to get there. Lize’s journey is a masterclass in pure tenacity. She started at 19 as an intern from a small country town, so determined to work for Mia Freedman that she "literally didn't leave”. Over the next decade, she climbed the ladder through nine different titles - from intern to Mia's EA, to the first-ever producer of No Filter - eventually becoming the woman running the entire 29-show operation. For Lize, the birth of her first child was the catalyst for an enormous change. Realising the demands of the job were incompatible with the life she wanted as a mother, she and her husband came to a terrifying realisation: they needed to ‘blow up their life.’ In a move that left many stunned, they both quit their high-profile Sydney jobs, moved to Newcastle, and Lize enrolled in a Master's degree to pursue a completely new career: As a high school English teacher. This is a raw and candid look at what it means to walk away from the top. We cover the creative job application that got her hired, the moment she crashed her boss's car (and kept her job), and the overwhelming "what have I done?" feeling that hits after you trade a high-prestige career for a student ID. Get ready to learn why sometimes, you have to "just jump.” THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Lize Ratliff Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you decide to take the leap with a dream you’ve been sitting on for years? For Lyndi Cohen, that dream meant pivoting into an industry she knew nothing about, long after she’d built her own successful empire. Lyndi’s first journey began after a decade-long battle with binge eating, leading her to build an anti-diet media brand from the ground up. She shortly evolved into who we now know as ‘The Nude Nutritionist’, becoming a renowned TV expert, author and app founder, helping thousands heal their relationships with food and body image. But one niggling idea wouldn’t go away...And now, Lyndi is making her most dramatic pivot of all. Leaping from the world of nutrition and landing herself straight into her very own fashion debut: launching a swimwear brand, Fearless. In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson speaks with Lyndi about this massive industry leap. They unpack the "messy middle" of her entire career: graduating with no job prospects and using "SEO hacks to manifest a media career", to the $180,000 investment that was required to build a swimwear line from scratch. Lyndi shares her core belief that "the key to success is embarrassment" and why it's been essential for this new fashion venture. Join us for a raw and practical lesson in constant evolution, a deep dive into the strategy of scaling an idea and a powerful reminder that all the dots (even a high school fashion class) eventually connect, proving that you have to "do it terrified”. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay.Discover Fearless website and Fearless on Instagram. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Lyndi Cohen, aka The Nude Nutritionist Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when your entire identity is built on being the best in the world? For Jana Pittman, one of Australia's most famous athletes, the singular goal of Olympic gold was repeatedly torn away by devastating injuries and gut-wrenching losses. You might think her biggest pivot was swapping the running track for the bobsled, becoming one of the very few athletes in history to compete in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. But that wasn't it. Her real pivot was walking away entirely from being an elite athlete to become a doctor - all while raising six children. In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson speaks with Jana about this massive career change. They unpack how you cope with failure when your mindset is "silver is the first loser", and how you go from being one of the best in the world to a complete beginner back at the bottom of the ladder, surrounded by people half your age. Jana shares the unfiltered story about how this profound pivot emerged from a period of intense personal and professional struggle - through divorce, miscarriages, failed exams and the financial lows of moving back into her own garage to make ends meet. Join us for a raw lesson in resilience, a look into the unseen "messy middle," and a powerful reminder that your lowest moments can be the fuel for your greatest chapter yet. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Jana Pittman Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best This show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Complete our short survey about education for for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8467038/Ch Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

INTRODUCING Pivot Club: What happens when you achieve the biggest dream of your life at 16? After national treasure Jessica Watson sailed around the world solo at 16, she had to figure out what to do next. The world expected more adventure, more record-breaking, something bigger and more dramatic. But, her first pivot was one no one saw coming: she went back to school, went to uni, got an MBA and built a career as a management consultant. After being homeschooled, study was a daunting prospect, but Jess didn’t let fear get in the way of making change. But that’s not the only pivot this conversation is about. Years after her voyage, Jess faced a challenge far greater than any storm at sea: the sudden, catastrophic loss of her long-term partner, Cam. That, she says, was her real pivot. In this episode of Pivot Club, Sarah Davidson speaks with Jess to find out how she navigated both of these life-altering changes. They discuss handling the crushing weight of expectation, building an identity separate from the one thing everyone knows you for, and the "messy, human kind" of resilience required to rebuild your entire "compass" after it’s been shattered by grief. Join us for this story of strength that is a profound reminder that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to find joy in a quiet life, right where you are. THE END BITS: Want more from Sarah Davidson? Check out her podcast Seize The Yay. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Jessica Watson Host: Sarah Davidson Executive Producer: Courtney Ammenhauser Senior Producer: Sally Best Audio Producer: Jacob RoundThis show was brought to you in partnership with Charles Sturt University. Australia's largest and most experienced online uni. Take the next step. Search Charles Sturt University online. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's one moment that can completely transform your career trajectory, the job interview. Yet most of us approach it with outdated advice, generic answers, and crossed fingers. We rock up thinking we can wing it, hoping they won't ask about our biggest weakness and secretly panicking about whether we've done enough research. Meanwhile, there's always that one candidate who seems to have it all figured out, asking thoughtful questions and making genuine connections. What's their secret? The truth is, interviewing is a skill that can be mastered. And when you get it right, it opens doors you never thought possible. This week on BIZ, we're breaking down how to turn interview anxiety into interview advantage. Whether you're re-entering the workforce, changing careers, or climbing the ladder, this is your roadmap to interview success. Here's what we're covering: • The strategic research that sets you apart before you even walk through the door • Four powerful questions that demonstrate you're serious about the role • The simple preparation technique that calms your nerves and keeps you focused • How to transform rejection into your next opportunity • Eli Gunduz's proven "Pitch–Proof–Ping–Personalise" method that recruiters can't ignore Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here Resources Mentioned: • Eli Gunduz's "Pitch–Proof–Ping–Personalise" method THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest...waiting until you feel "ready" to make a career move is like waiting for the perfect weather to start exercising. It's never going to happen, and meanwhile, everyone else is getting ahead. This week, we're diving deep into why learning isn't just nice-to-have anymore - it's career insurance. Our guest Andrea Clark has spent her career helping people adapt fast, and she doesn't believe in waiting until you're ready to grow. From recognizing when that "mutual value exchange" with your employer has run its course, to spotting signals of change before they become obvious to everyone else. We explore why Andrea invested $3,000 in an AI course back in 2017 (spoiler: it paid off massively) and tackle the biggest blocker to career growth - thinking you need to feel 100% confident before taking action. What you'll learn: • The "mutual value exchange" test to know when it's time to move on • How to spot signals of change 5 years before your industry • Micro-learning strategies for busy people who think they don't have time • Why courage brings clarity and how to turn experiments into evidence • How to align your learning goals with where your business is heading in 2030 Resources: Future Fit: How To Stay Relevant And Competitive In The Future Of Work by Andrea Clarke Adapt: Mastering change in four steps by Andrea Clarke Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Andrea Clarke SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel guilty for taking breaks? Put work ahead of your relationships? Ignore your health in the name of productivity? You might be stuck in workaholic mode without even realising it! Meet your new BIZ hosts: Lisa Lie (former Head of People & Culture who worked herself into burnout twice in one year) and Em Vernem (Associate Editor at Mamamia who discovered that giving 80% at work prevents the burnout that comes from constantly operating at 100%). They've been trapped in the cycle, escaped it, and now they're exposing the workaholic trap that's keeping high-achievers burning out—even when they love what they do. You'll learn: The signs you're already caught in the cycle Where workaholic tendencies actually come from (hint: it's not what you think) How the workaholic trap sabotages your daily life without you noticing Why that promotion might be making everything worse PLUS we take the University of Bergen’s 7-point Workaholism Test (finally, a way to tell the difference between working hard and working too hard), and chat the exact steps Lisa took to escape the workaholic cycle for good! Resources That Actually Work: Jane Martino, Co-Founder of Smiling Mind and Coach at Kintsugi Way Mamamia's Well Burnout Episode: Is It Burnout Or Am I Just Really Tired? 7 Signs You May Be A Workaholic The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide To Personal Freedom'by Don Miguel Ruiz Less Hustle, More Happy by Claire Seeber Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Going from mate to manager can get weird, fast. One day you're in the group chat laughing with your colleagues, the next day they might be laughing at you behind your back. This week, we're tackling one of the trickiest workplace transitions: becoming the boss of your former teammates. We dig into why this shift feels so bloody awkward (spoiler: it's not just you), how to navigate the immediate identity crisis when suddenly nobody wants to gossip with you anymore, and the art of setting expectations without turning into a micromanager overnight. Plus, we reveal the coaching trick that gets people to solve their own problems, why letting your team do "B plus work" is actually good leadership, and when to recognise that management might not be for you - and that's completely okay. What you'll learn: The Reset Conversation: How to acknowledge the shift without making it weird The B Plus Work Philosophy: Why perfectionist managers fail their teams The Question Technique: The coaching trick that creates ownership instead of dependency The Identity Shift Reality: Why your value isn't in doing the job anymore, it's in helping others do it well Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Tina Matolov Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever suggest something new at work only to hear "that's just how we do things here" and watch the energy completely deflate? Yeah, we've all been there. This week, we're chatting with Wade Kingsley about breaking free from status quo thinking and actually getting your ideas heard without being shut down or laughed at (been there too). Wade breaks down why most workplaces are set up to reward playing it safe, how to identify whether you're a Dreamer, Doer, or Doubter on your team, and the genius strategy of testing ideas in kitchen conversations before you pitch them to the boss. Plus, we dive into why creativity isn't about having the most artistic job - it's about getting curious and asking "but what if we tried this instead?" when everyone else just accepts the way things are. What you'll learn: The Three Creative Types and why your team needs all of them (spoiler: it's not just about the big idea people) Why you should never pitch your brilliant idea to the boss first - and who to talk to instead The 'Five Whys' technique for getting to the real problem (not just what's on the surface) How to frame risky ideas as "experiments" so people actually want to try them The art of separating brainstorming from reality-checking so ideas don't get killed instantly How to build creative confidence even when you've been shot down before Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Wade Kingsley SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forget everything you think you know about career success, this is the secret playbook of one of Hollywood's most influential female executives. In this special episode, Em sits down with Sarah Harden, the Australian powerhouse who co-founded and was the ex-CEO of Reese Witherspoon's $100 million media empire, Hello Sunshine. Sarah reveals the exact strategic moves that transformed her from a politics grad into a leader who built a company responsible for hits like Big Little Lies and The Morning Show. Her philosophy? You have to "stretch and take yourself out of your comfort zone—there is incredible learning and growth in that." This is your practical blueprint for accelerated career growth. What you'll learn: The Accelerator Move: The specific career decision that turbocharges growth (and why most women skip it). Doubt vs. Curiosity: How to strategically swap out self-doubt for a curious mindset when evaluating opportunities. The Fastest Path: Why stepping into discomfort is the non-negotiable step for exponential career success. The Money Framework: The powerful process for turning consumer insights into multi-million dollar business decisions. Authentic Culture: Sarah's keys to building a strong, inclusive company culture that lasts. Connect with Sarah and Hello Sunshine: Follow Hello Sunshine on Instagram Learn more about Drop of Sunshine wines Visit their website: Hello Sunshine Must Watch Shows: Morning Wars Big Little Lies Little Fires Everywhere Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! GUEST: Sarah Harden HOSTS: Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever found yourself scrolling LinkedIn at 2 am wondering if you should completely change careers?The average Australian will have 5-6 career changes in their lifetime - so if you're considering it, you're not alone! Career pivots can feel equal parts exciting and terrifying. In this episode, we get into the real stuff: how to know if it's time to make a move, what to do when you're not sure where to start, and why "transferable skills" are more than just a LinkedIn buzzword. From personal stories to practical advice, we cover the trade-offs and key questions to ask yourself before making the leap. Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here That's a wrap on the BIZ season - thanks for listening along! Stay tuned on our socials @bizbymamamia on Instagram and LinkedIn for what's next. Resources Mentioned: You can find more from Lauren here with some guides on some of the toughest feedback conversations to have: BIZ Ep: How To Get Along With Anyone BIZ Ep: How To Nail The Job Interview Ideal Career Coach: Kate Richardson 'Play to your strengths' in Learna. The clever reason why adult women are giving themselves homework General Assembly - Professional Development Courses THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feedback the word that makes most of us want to hide under our desks. Whether you're asking for it or giving it, feedback conversations can feel bloody awkward. But here's the thing: we all know we need it to grow. This week on BIZ, leadership coach Lauren Humphrey, co-founder of The Mentable chats how to tackle the feedback minefield. We're exploring why feedback feels so intense (even when we ask for it), the difference between feedback and feelings, and how to build feedback into your work relationships without making it weird. From the psychology behind why we resist feedback to practical scripts for giving it to your boss or peers, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you master one of the most important workplace skills. What you'll learn: The SARA model - why we all go through shock, anxiety, resistance, and acceptance when receiving feedback How to tell the difference between feedback and conflict Real scripts for giving feedback to peers, bosses, and team members How to build feedback into your regular work rhythm so it stops feeling like a big deal Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here Resources Mentioned: You can find more from Lauren here with some guides on some of the toughest feedback conversations to have: 'What to do when your boss needs feedback' - in Learna 'Giving your peers feedback' - in Learna Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well (Even When It Is Off Base, Unfair, Poorly Delivered, and, Frankly, You're Not In the Mood) Hardcover by Douglas Stone (Author), Sheila Heen (Author)THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Lauren Humphrey (Co-founder The Mintable) SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lying on your resume when everyone else seems to be getting ahead? Struggling with reference dilemmas when your boss left on bad terms? Or maybe you've accidentally discovered your company's secret layoff plans and don't know whether to warn your colleagues? This week, we're diving into resume ethics, reference nightmares, and the ultimate workplace moral dilemma in our season finale. What you'll learn: • Resume Ethics Reality Check: Why changing your job title from "Marketing Intern" to "Marketing Coordinator" crosses the line from embellishment to lying, plus how to showcase expanded responsibilities without fabricating your actual role • Reference Dilemma Solutions: Navigating tricky reference situations when bosses leave badly, whether you can use junior colleagues as references, and how to politely decline being someone's reference when they weren't great at their job • The Ultimate Workplace Bombshell: What to do when you accidentally discover massive layoffs are coming while your colleagues are buying houses and planning weddings - should you warn them and risk your career, or stay silent? Plus: A follow-up on sick leave rights - why Australian employees are never legally required to find their own replacement when calling in sick, even if it's written into their contract. Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: BIZ: The Exact Script To Calling In Sick Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah PorgesBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being a team manager isn't just about hitting targets - it's about helping your team grow and getting them ready for what's coming next. And right now, the skill that matters most is coaching! Let's be honest - most new managers feel like they're drowning. Everything's coming at them, everyone's coming at them, and they're stuck in that old-school "delegate and instruct" mode that leaves everyone frustrated. But here's the thing: coaching isn't some mystical two-hour journey exploration. It can be a five-minute conversation with four simple questions. This week, we break down why coaching is the unlock that transforms you from a micromanager into someone who actually develops their team. They're sharing the practical, no-nonsense approach that builds trust, develops independence, and helps you step back without stepping away. What you'll learn: • Why coaching beats the old "tell people what to do" management style every time • The difference between coaching, mentoring, and managing (and when to use each) • Five game-changing questions you can use right now - no certification required • How to resist your "hero complex" and let your team actually solve problems • The art of "snap coaching" - coaching in the moment when it matters most • When NOT to coach (because sometimes you just need to give direction) Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here Resources Mentioned: Learna:'Start coaching in the moment' - Learna'Stop being the team fixer' - Learna'Empower people with coaching' - LearnaBooks: Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stainer The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling like you need to perform "interesting" at work by cramming business news and sitting in irrelevant meetings? Wondering if there's a secret timing hack for job applications that TikTok swears by? Or maybe you're the boss's unwanted favourite and it's making your work life hell? This week, we're tackling workplace performance anxiety, job application myths, and the tricky politics of being singled out by management. What you'll learn: • The Performative Workplace Trap: Why forcing yourself to seem "interesting" through business news and irrelevant meetings is exhausting and unsustainable, plus authentic ways to stand out that actually showcase your personality • Job Application Timing Truth: Debunking the TikTok theory about the "secret 24-48 hour window" and why you shouldn't game the system, plus real strategies for getting your resume noticed through referrals and connections • Unwanted Favourite Survival Guide: How to set gentle boundaries when your boss overshares and plays favourites, managing the delicate power balance without losing your job or your colleagues' respect Plus: The shocking Microsoft study revealing we're living in the "infinite work day" - from 6am email checks to 10pm inbox raids, and why 48% of us describe our workdays as complete chaos. Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah PorgesBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public speaking. Presentations. Speaking up in meetings. It's the stuff of sweaty palms and racing thoughts, and yet, we're all expected to be good at it. Let's be honest - most of us would rather do literally anything else than stand up and speak in front of people. The pressure to "sound confident" when you're internally screaming can feel paralysing. But here's the thing: you don't have to pretend to be someone you're not to get better at this. This week, Lisa and Em get honest about the fear so many of us feel when it comes to using our voice at work. Whether it's a team meeting, a client pitch, or standing on stage with a microphone, they're sharing their own journeys - from awkward silences to the strategies that actually work. What you'll learn: • The public speaking confidence ladder - how to work your way up from "terrified to speak in meetings" to actual presentations • Why recording yourself (audio only) is genuinely life-changing practice • The "headline, proof, connection" structure that stops you rambling • How to recover when your brain completely abandons you mid-speech • Real talk on the classics: saying "um," blanking, and speaking way too fast Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here Resources Mentioned: 'Why your skills have an expiry date, and what to do about it' with Andrea ClarkeTalk like TED by Carmine Gallo 'Managing nerves when presenting' in Learna.Tell stories that stick' in Learna.How to sell ideas' in Learna.'How to structure your thoughts under pressure' in Learna.THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dealing with a colleague who clearly can't stand you? Managing a scattered team across multiple cities? Or trying to function at work while your heart is completely shattered? This week, we're diving deep into three workplace situations that test your emotional intelligence - from navigating hostile colleagues to building team cohesion across state lines, plus surviving the office when you're going through the worst breakup of your life. What you'll learn: • Hostile Colleague Survival Guide: When "kill them with kindness" isn't working, how to recognise when workplace tension crosses into bullying territory, and the exact conversation to have with HR when it's affecting your performance • Multi-City Team Management Reality Check: Why your company might be setting you up to fail, the team leader structure that actually works across Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Adelaide, and how to push back when you're not given the tools for success • Heartbreak at Work Handbook: The surprising difference between pre and post-COVID heartbreak recovery, why taking mental health leave for relationship breakdown is completely valid, and how being honest with colleagues can turn them into your support network Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah PorgesBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest...the leadership playbook that worked five years ago is failing spectacularly right now. The world has fundamentally changed, and clinging to the old "hero leader" approach isn't just outdated, it's actively damaging your team. This week, we're ditching the pressure to have all the answers and exploring why getting curious beats being right. From why self-aware leaders crush those who think they're perfect, to choosing confidence over certainty. We explore why thinking in loops beats linear planning, tackle the self-preservation trap making leaders hoard information, and bust the myth that good leaders always know what to do. What you'll learn: • The one question that separates great leaders from terrible ones: "What's more important - being right or solving this?" • How to use the 70/20/10 planning model when your boss still wants that impossible five-year plan • Why "seeker" leaders outperform "teller" leaders every time (and how to make the switch) • The health monitor trick that spots team problems before they explode • How to set up working agreements that stop you becoming the office firefighter Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here RESOURCES MENTIONED: Dom Price's FREE Team Playbook Learna: 'Make Better Work Happen' Learna: 'Tell Stories That Stick' Pre-Mortem Exercise Health Monitor Exercise Andrea Clarke: 'Why Your Skills Have an Expiry Date (And What to Do About It)' Loom - Video Messaging Tool THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Dom Price SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Been thrown into running team meetings without a clue how to actually run them? Stressing about whether to mention that decade-old school captain role on your resume? Or maybe you're overthinking the "proper" way to call in sick at 3am when you're genuinely unwell? This week, we're tackling three workplace dilemmas that will have you nodding along going "yup, I've definitely been there" - from meeting management that actually works to resume anxiety relief, plus the real protocol for sick days without the guilt. What you'll learn: • Meeting Management That Actually Works: Why agendas are your secret weapon, how to assign roles so people engage instead of zone out, and the psychology trick that makes you the facilitator, not the bad guy • Resume Reality Check: What recruiters actually scan for in 2025, why you need different versions for different roles, and how to leverage LinkedIn as your detailed story while keeping resumes conversational • Sick Day Confidence Script: The timing that actually matters, how much detail to share (spoiler: not much), and why women especially need to stop feeling guilty about using entitled leave Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's one moment that can completely transform your career trajectory, the job interview. Yet most of us approach it with outdated advice, generic answers, and crossed fingers. We rock up thinking we can wing it, hoping they won't ask about our biggest weakness and secretly panicking about whether we've done enough research. Meanwhile, there's always that one candidate who seems to have it all figured out, asking thoughtful questions and making genuine connections. What's their secret? The truth is, interviewing is a skill that can be mastered. And when you get it right, it opens doors you never thought possible. This week on BIZ, we're breaking down how to turn interview anxiety into interview advantage. Whether you're re-entering the workforce, changing careers, or climbing the ladder, this is your roadmap to interview success. Here's what we're covering: • The strategic research that sets you apart before you even walk through the door • Four powerful questions that demonstrate you're serious about the role • The simple preparation technique that calms your nerves and keeps you focused • How to transform rejection into your next opportunity • Eli Gunduz's proven "Pitch–Proof–Ping–Personalise" method that recruiters can't ignore Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here Resources Mentioned: • Eli Gunduz's "Pitch–Proof–Ping–Personalise" method THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Got a boss who's lovely but completely useless at giving feedback? Dreading every Monday morning and wondering how everyone else makes their nine-to-five look so Instagram-worthy? Or maybe you've been added to the office gossip Slack channel and don't know whether to stay in the drama or make your escape? This week, we're tackling three workplace situations that'll feel painfully familiar - from getting constructive feedback when your manager won't give it, to romanticising your work life when you've lost that loving feeling, plus navigating the ultimate office drama dilemma. What you'll learn: • Feedback-Free Boss Solutions: Why your manager thinks about you way less than you think, how to schedule monthly feedback meetings that actually work, and why seeking feedback from peers and other leaders is just as valuable • Work Life Romance Revival: How to tell the difference between normal work slumps and serious burnout, why those aesthetic work TikToks are total BS, and practical ways to fall back in love with your job when everything feels like a chore • Gossip Channel Escape Routes: The "toxic" advice vs. the legal-brain approach to leaving workplace drama chats, plus exact scripts for extracting yourself without burning bridges or looking like a snitch Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest...thinking you can just pick up where you left off after maternity leave is like expecting to run a marathon after taking a year off training. Everything's changed - including you. This week, we're tackling the messy, meaningful reality of returning to work after maternity leave and how to keep growing your career when your priorities have completely shifted. From navigating the emotional whirlwind of feeling like a different person at work, to mastering the art of being visible when you're working part-time. We explore why the "mental load" hits harder than anyone warns you about, tackle the confidence crisis that comes with feeling like people are doing you a favour by giving you part-time work, and bust the myth that career growth stops when you start working flexibly. What you'll learn: How to have the pre-return conversation that prevents you from drowning in an impossible workload • The salary negotiation reality check - if you were on $100k full-time, that budget still exists for your part-time return • Why being strategic about visibility beats showing up to everything (and the PAYO method that makes every meeting count) Resources Mentioned: Monday.com (Work Platform) Amanda Blesing Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling like the office weakest link in your new role? Your partner's "work wife / husband" making you seriously uncomfortable? Or maybe you're just trying to master the art of looking busy on those "done by lunch" WFH Fridays? This week, we're serving up the exact strategies and scripts you need to handle these sticky situations - from reframing new role anxiety to having that awkward work wife conversation, plus tactical Friday WFH hacks. What you'll learn: • New Role Confidence Toolkit: Why the "drowning" feeling means you're doing it right, plus how to reframe imposter syndrome using the HP study that shows men apply at 60% qualified • Friday WFH Survival Tactics: Specific strategies for spreading workload, scheduling emails, and staying available without being glued to your desk • The Work Wife Conversation Script: Exact approaches for discussing boundaries with your partner and red flags to watch for when workplace friendships cross the line Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. Want $10 + a free month of Mamamia? We've got you.We're cooking up something exciting and need your brilliant opinions to help us make even better content.It's just 20 minutes of your time, and you'll get: $10 e-gift card 1 month Mamamia subscription (or gift it to someone if you're already a subscriber) Survey hereT&Cs here THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest...waiting until you feel "ready" to make a career move is like waiting for the perfect weather to start exercising. It's never going to happen, and meanwhile, everyone else is getting ahead. This week, we're diving deep into why learning isn't just nice-to-have anymore - it's career insurance. Our guest Andrea Clark has spent her career helping people adapt fast, and she doesn't believe in waiting until you're ready to grow. From recognizing when that "mutual value exchange" with your employer has run its course, to spotting signals of change before they become obvious to everyone else. We explore why Andrea invested $3,000 in an AI course back in 2017 (spoiler: it paid off massively) and tackle the biggest blocker to career growth - thinking you need to feel 100% confident before taking action. What you'll learn: • The "mutual value exchange" test to know when it's time to move on • How to spot signals of change 5 years before your industry • Micro-learning strategies for busy people who think they don't have time • Why courage brings clarity and how to turn experiments into evidence • How to align your learning goals with where your business is heading in 2030 Resources: Future Fit: How To Stay Relevant And Competitive In The Future Of Work by Andrea Clarke Adapt: Mastering change in four steps by Andrea Clarke Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Andrea Clarke SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Want $10 + a free month of Mamamia? We've got you.We're cooking up something exciting and need your brilliant opinions to help us make even better content.It's just 20 minutes of your time, and you'll get: $10 e-gift card 1 month Mamamia subscription (or gift it to someone if you're already a subscriber) Survey hereT&Cs here Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Workplace oversharing making you cringe? Your messy ex just applied to work at your company? And someone definitely overheard you venting about colleagues to your husband? This week, we're tackling the most awkward workplace situations that have you lying awake at 3am wondering how to fix them. We decode the delicate art of telling a colleague they share way too much personal information, reveal what to do when your romantic history collides with your professional life, and share the exact words to use when your private conversation becomes very public. What you'll discover: • The Oversharer's Dilemma: How to address a colleague who won't stop talking about their period and sex life without becoming the office prude • The Ex-Files: Real strategies for when your messy breakup threatens to invade your workplace (plus Em's brutal confession about sabotaging an ex's job application) • The Overheard Conversation: Exactly what to say when someone catches you venting about work to your spouse • The Boundary Setting Masterclass: Why reading the room is everything and how different workplaces have wildly different tolerance levels • The Awkwardness Antidote: Why addressing uncomfortable situations head-on is always better than letting them fester Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks. Want $10 + a free month of Mamamia? We've got you.We're cooking up something exciting and need your brilliant opinions to help us make even better content.It's just 20 minutes of your time, and you'll get: $10 e-gift card 1 month Mamamia subscription (or gift it to someone if you're already a subscriber) Survey hereT&Cs here THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest...stuff like "personal branding" and "networking" can feel so cringey. But this kind of work - building relationships, putting yourself out there, making sure people know what you do - isn't optional anymore. This week, we're tackling the awkward space between wanting recognition and not wanting to feel like you're constantly selling yourself. We explore why 70% of Australian jobs happen through the "hidden job market" and how making your "invisible work" visible is key to career growth without the cringe factor. From the difference between visible work (what's in your job description) and invisible work (the relationships you build and unique perspective you bring) to navigating LinkedIn's evolution from professional networking to... whatever it is now. We unpack how to do it in a way that feels like you - not like you're selling yourself - plus practical ways to start showing up without feeling like a walking LinkedIn post. What you'll learn: Why "idea promotion" feels so much better than self-promotion (and gets better results) The low-effort, high-impact strategies to start building visibility this week How to use LinkedIn authentically without becoming one of those people with the em-dashes Why commenting meaningfully beats posting your own content when you're starting out The art of casual networking that doesn't feel like networking at all How to reconnect with former colleagues without it being weird Our BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Want $10 + a free month of Mamamia? We've got you.We're cooking up something exciting and need your brilliant opinions to help us make even better content.It's just 20 minutes of your time, and you'll get: $10 e-gift card 1 month Mamamia subscription (or gift it to someone if you're already a subscriber) Survey hereT&Cs here Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do networking events make you want to hide in the bathroom? Your colleagues keep dumping their disasters on your desk? And everyone's talking about "conscious unbossing" like it's the career move of the century? This week, we're diving deep into the workplace trends that are reshaping how we think about success. We decode the viral conscious unbossing movement that's got Gen Z turning down promotions (and whether it's genius or career suicide), plus we tackle the networking game without sounding desperate and reveal the diplomatic ways to tell colleagues their chaos isn't your problem. What you'll discover: • The Conscious Unbossing Reality Check: Why turning down promotions might be the smartest move you never considered • The Zookeeper's Power Move: How one woman refused every promotion to stay happy (and why her boss loved it) • The Networking Breakthrough: The one question that transforms awkward coffee chats into real connections • The Boundary Setting Bible: Diplomatic ways to say "that's not my job" without burning bridges • The Small Talk Truth: Why everyone who says they "hate small talk" is missing the point Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited. Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever suggest something new at work only to hear "that's just how we do things here" and watch the energy completely deflate? Yeah, we've all been there. This week, we're chatting with Wade Kingsley about breaking free from status quo thinking and actually getting your ideas heard without being shut down or laughed at (been there too). Wade breaks down why most workplaces are set up to reward playing it safe, how to identify whether you're a Dreamer, Doer, or Doubter on your team, and the genius strategy of testing ideas in kitchen conversations before you pitch them to the boss. Plus, we dive into why creativity isn't about having the most artistic job - it's about getting curious and asking "but what if we tried this instead?" when everyone else just accepts the way things are. What you'll learn: The Three Creative Types and why your team needs all of them (spoiler: it's not just about the big idea people) Why you should never pitch your brilliant idea to the boss first - and who to talk to instead The 'Five Whys' technique for getting to the real problem (not just what's on the surface) How to frame risky ideas as "experiments" so people actually want to try them The art of separating brainstorming from reality-checking so ideas don't get killed instantly How to build creative confidence even when you've been shot down before Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em Vernem GUEST: Wade Kingsley SENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your boss just stole your brilliant idea. Again. While you're sitting there feeling invisible, they're presenting "their" genius solution to the entire leadership team. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Idea theft is alive and well in Australian offices, and this week we're giving you the tools to fight back. We're also tackling the mortifying moment we've all had - crying at work - and helping a millennial navigate the tricky waters of managing a team of boomers. This week we're solving workplace dilemmas that hit close to home, from generational clashes to protecting your intellectual property! What you'll learn: • The Authority Paradox: How to earn respect when you're the youngest person in charge • The Credit Protection System: Simple tactics to stop your boss stealing your ideas • The Crying Recovery Plan: How to bounce back professionally after showing emotion at work • The Generational Bridge: Why adapting your style (temporarily) isn't selling out • The Paper Trail Strategy: Creating evidence that protects your contributions • The Salary Reality Check: Australia's highest-paying jobs revealed (surgeons still dominating at $472K) Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited. Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Working your way up isn't just about putting in more hours or waiting your turn. It's about being strategic, being visible, and knowing how to navigate the messy middle - like relationships, timing, and office politics. This week, we're giving you the exact playbook to stop waiting around for someone to tell you that you're ready for a promotion and how to actually make it happen instead. We dig into how to know if you're actually ready to move up (spoiler: time in seat doesn't equal readiness), the art of asking for advancement without sounding pushy or awkward, and how to build the kind of reputation that makes people want to champion your career. Plus, we tackle what to do when you tick all the boxes but still don't get the promotion - and why that might actually be the best thing that could happen to you. What you'll learn: The Readiness Reality Check: How to get honest feedback about where you stand and what a "10 out of 10" performance actually looks like The Promotion Conversation Reframe: Why you should never use the word "promotion" and what to say instead to get results The Trust Factor: Why promotions go to the most trusted person, not the loudest, and four quiet ways to build your reputation The Sponsor vs Mentor Distinction: Understanding the difference and why having a sponsor is crucial for career acceleration The Rejection Recovery Plan: Four strategic experiments to try when you don't get the promotion (that set you up for success either way) Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The hardest worker in the office used to get ahead. Now they just get... tired. While you're burning out at your desk, your colleagues are booking year-long "micro retirements" and somehow still getting promoted. This week we're cracking the code on why grinding harder isn't working anymore - and revealing what actually gets you ahead instead. We decode the viral micro retirement trend that's got twenty and thirty-somethings quitting their jobs to travel (spoiler: it's not for everyone), plus we tackle the corporate jargon takeover and expose a workplace trick that's stealing your paycheck. What you'll discover: • The Hard Worker's Trap: Why staying late is sabotaging your success • The Micro Retirement Test: Should you quit your job to travel? (The honest answer) • The Deathbed Reality Check: What people actually regret about their careers • The Jargon Shutdown: How to kill corporate speak without looking difficult • The Part-Time Scam: The simple trick to stop doing full-time work for part-time pay Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! Resources That Actually Help: The Top Five Regrets Of Dying SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Tina Matalov BIZ UPDATE: Sarah Davidson has been sharing her career wisdom with us, and now she's officially here to stay. She's joining BIZ Inbox full-time as co-host alongside Em Vernem and honestly, we couldn't be more excited. Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Going from mate to manager can get weird, fast. One day you're in the group chat laughing with your colleagues, the next day they might be laughing at you behind your back. This week, we're tackling one of the trickiest workplace transitions: becoming the boss of your former teammates. We dig into why this shift feels so bloody awkward (spoiler: it's not just you), how to navigate the immediate identity crisis when suddenly nobody wants to gossip with you anymore, and the art of setting expectations without turning into a micromanager overnight. Plus, we reveal the coaching trick that gets people to solve their own problems, why letting your team do "B plus work" is actually good leadership, and when to recognise that management might not be for you - and that's completely okay. What you'll learn: The Reset Conversation: How to acknowledge the shift without making it weird The B Plus Work Philosophy: Why perfectionist managers fail their teams The Question Technique: The coaching trick that creates ownership instead of dependency The Identity Shift Reality: Why your value isn't in doing the job anymore, it's in helping others do it well Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When workplace flirting gets dangerously hot, should you risk everything for a colleague you can't stop thinking about? This week we tackle the steamiest workplace dilemma we've ever received: months of "dangerous flirting" that's reached breaking point. Then we solve what happens when your dream job becomes a nightmare faster than you can update your LinkedIn, and reveal why three weeks is the worst possible time to make any career decisions, plus the one conversation that could save you from a massive mistake. Plus, is there a colleague at work who makes you feel like the awkward new kid while they're the popular one everyone knows? We tackle workplace insecurity head-on, revealing the simple strategy that transforms your biggest workplace threat into your secret career weapon. What you'll learn: The Insecurity Antidote: How to transform workplace jealousy into career advancement The 3-Week Rule: Why this timeline is too early to judge any new role (and what to do instead) The Safety vs Challenge Framework: How to know if you're craving security or genuinely unhappy The Office Romance Risk Calculator: The one question that determines if workplace attraction is worth pursuing The Colleague Dating Commandment: Why casual dating rules don't apply at work (and what does) The Worst-Case Scenario Test: The mental exercise that prevents career-destroying decisions Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! Resources That Actually Help: When I started dating a coworker, all the men in my office suddenly treated me differently Looking for an office romance? You want to be in one of these professions. SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Thom Lion Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Be prepared to stretch and take yourself out of your comfort zone - there is incredible learning and growth in that." In this special episode, Em had the opportunity to get online with Sarah Harden, (the Australian powerhouse who co-founded Reese Witherspoon's $100 million media empire Hello Sunshine) reveals the career strategies that transformed her from a Melbourne politics graduate into one of Hollywood's most influential female executives. No theoretical fluff—just the exact mindset shifts and strategic moves that built the company behind Big Little Lies, The Morning Show, and Little Fires Everywhere. Listening to this episode will teach you: The specific career move that accelerates everything (and why most women never make it) How to replace self-doubt with curiosity when evaluating opportunities Why stepping into discomfort is the fastest path to exponential career growth The exact framework for turning consumer insights into multi-million dollar business decisions How to build authentic company culture from day one Sarah's "show, don't tell" philosophy has proven that women's stories aren't just culturally important—they're massively profitable. Her partnership with Reese Witherspoon demonstrates the untapped business potential in female-focused storytelling, reaching 150 million women weekly. Connect with Sarah and Hello Sunshine: Follow Hello Sunshine on Instagram Learn more about Drop of Sunshine wines Visit their website: Hello Sunshine Must Watch Shows: Morning Wars Big Little Lies Little Fires Everywhere Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! GUEST: Sarah Harden HOSTS: Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever tried to show your sparkling personality through a pixelated Zoom screen while competing against people who get to charm their way through face-to-face interviews? This week we're tackling the art of nailing remote interviews when everyone else gets the home-field advantage of being actually present (rude, but okay). Then we dive into every office worker's worst nightmare: waking up after the Christmas party with fuzzy memories and crystal-clear secondhand embarrassment. Spoiler alert: you're probably not the only one who went a bit too hard on the free bar, but we've got your damage control strategy sorted. Plus, we're tackling that boss who dismisses diversity efforts as "box-ticking" and can't resist dropping "snowflake millennials" into every meeting. Newsflash: this is exactly why HR departments exist. Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! Resources That Actually Help: Too Drunk At The Work Xmas Party? Here's What To Do! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered why we reveal the secret weapon for decoding those frustrating moments when you and your colleagues seem to be speaking completely different languages. Ever wondered why that one colleague drives you absolutely mental while another person finds them perfectly reasonable?Discover the four distinct working styles that explain why some people obsess over tiny details while others just want to "get it done," and why the golden rule of "treat others how you want to be treated" might actually be sabotaging your work relationships.You'll learn:- How to instantly identify whether someone is a D, I, S, or C style (and what your own default mode is) - The exact one-liners to use with each personality type to get better results - Why your "difficult" colleague might not be difficult at all – just wired differently - How to explain your own working style without sounding like you're making excuses You’ll finish this ep knowing exactly why your DISC profile is the difference between friction and flow in any workplace.Whether you're managing a team or just trying to better navigate office politics, these insights will transform how you approach workplace communication. Resources That Actually Work: Surrounded By Idiots.Do your own DISC test.Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem.Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Here’s her special on How To Get Along With Anyone With Lisa Lie Sign up to the BIZ newsletter hereYou might be interested in our episodes on:How To Talk So People Listen To YouHow To Be More Productive (Without Trying Too Hard)Time Blocking Doesn't Work (Until You Do It Right)How To Ask For More Money (Without Dying From Awkwardness)THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemEXEC PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your open plan office driving you to distraction with endless chatter and non-stop interruptions? This week on BIZ Inbox, Em Vernem and Sarah Davidson dive deep into the chaotic world of trying to get actual work done when you're surrounded by Sally's weekend dating disasters and the marketing team's passionate font feuds (we're secretly here for both, tbh). Then we tackle that colleague who somehow thinks their name is written in flashing neon lights at the top of your to-do list – spoiler alert: it's not! Plus, we reveal how to flip the script on redundancy in job interviews and turn your layoff story into your biggest power move. Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your go-to workplace advice podcast where awkward career questions get real-world solutions. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel guilty for taking breaks? Put work ahead of your relationships? Ignore your health in the name of productivity? You might be stuck in workaholic mode without even realising it! Meet your new BIZ hosts: Lisa Lie (former Head of People & Culture who worked herself into burnout twice in one year) and Em Vernem (Associate Editor at Mamamia who discovered that giving 80% at work prevents the burnout that comes from constantly operating at 100%). They've been trapped in the cycle, escaped it, and now they're exposing the workaholic trap that's keeping high-achievers burning out—even when they love what they do. You'll learn: The signs you're already caught in the cycle Where workaholic tendencies actually come from (hint: it's not what you think) How the workaholic trap sabotages your daily life without you noticing Why that promotion might be making everything worse PLUS we take the University of Bergen’s 7-point Workaholism Test (finally, a way to tell the difference between working hard and working too hard), and chat the exact steps Lisa took to escape the workaholic cycle for good! Resources That Actually Work: Jane Martino, Co-Founder of Smiling Mind and Coach at Kintsugi Way Mamamia's Well Burnout Episode: Is It Burnout Or Am I Just Really Tired? 7 Signs You May Be A Workaholic The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide To Personal Freedom'by Don Miguel Ruiz Less Hustle, More Happy by Claire Seeber Our new BIZ hosts are Lisa Lie - a former Head of People & Culture and Organisational Coach - and Mamamia’s Em Vernem. Learna is Lisa’s microlearning app for practical people skills at work. Expert-led lessons to build confidence, solve challenges, and work smarter - in under 7 minutes. Get it on Apple or Google Play.Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here THE END BITSSupport independent women's media.Got a work life dilemma? Send us all the questions you definitely can't ask your boss for our Biz Inbox episodes - send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain anon! HOSTS: Lisa Lie and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you silently spiralling over a big presentation coming up? Or working from home and crushing projects but feeling totally invisible come performance review time? Or here's the uncomfortable truth bomb – are you actually the colleague who turns every team catch-up into your personal TED talk? This week on BIZ Inbox, Em Vernem and Sarah Davidson are serving up hard truths about meeting monopolisers who suck all the oxygen out of the room, plus sharing subtle tactics to give your quieter teammates a chance to shine without staging a workplace intervention. We're also solving the absolute terror of public speaking with psychology tricks that actually work (spoiler: clench your butt cheeks – seriously, it's science), and helping remote workers prove their worth when they're competing against the office crowd from their kitchen table. Got office politics nightmares or boss-from-hell situations? Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au. You can remain completely anonymous! SHOW MENTIONS: Interview Boss Get more Sarah Davidson in her sensational podcast Seize The Yay!Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here to get all our tips and tricks.THE END BITSSupport independent women's mediaFollow the Biz Instagram and Sarah's very own podcast: Seize The Yay Podcast. HOSTS: Sarah Davidson and Em VernemSENIOR PRODUCER: Sophie CampbellAUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.