Looks Like Work

In this deeply personal solo episode, Chedva takes us through her 17-year entrepreneurial journey - from translator to blogger to design journalist to marketing agency owner to tech startup founder and back to founder mode with her new venture, Consider. After recent trips to New York and Greece for conferences, she reflects on the seductive pull of "founder mode" and how easily we can lose ourselves in the pursuit of our dreams. Drawing inspiration from seeing Audra McDonald in the Broadway musical "Gypsy," Chedva explores the dangerous intersection of resilience and ambition when they're not balanced with introspection and question-asking. She shares her own experiences of getting sucked into work identity and offers a powerful warning about how positive traits like determination can turn against our values when left unchecked. Key Topics: The evolution of a 17-year entrepreneurial journey across multiple industries The seductive danger of "founder mode" and losing yourself in your work How resilience without introspection can make you turn on your own values The importance of maintaining identity and life outside of your business Learning to integrate work and personal life rather than compartmentalizing Growing up multicultural and the sense of belonging everywhere and nowhere The challenge of sustaining passion projects without burning out Using Broadway's "Gypsy" as a metaphor for entrepreneurial obsession The necessity of regular check-ins with yourself and your values Notable Quotes: "Resilience without questions or introspection can quickly make you turn on yourself, on your loved ones, and on your values." "When I don't regularly check in with myself and question my own automatic behavior... I can find myself alone, burnt out, and perhaps even worse, working towards something that is opposed to my values." "I actually love my life and I wanna be part of it." "I didn't really love my life back then... a lot of that time I didn't want to stay with my own questions." Chedva's Powerful Question: "When do these positive, celebrated behaviors or values like resilience and being hardworking turn on us or make us help turn on ourselves? And how can we ask ourselves better questions when it comes to it?" Resources Mentioned: Consider.club - Chedva's new venture focused on transformative question-asking CuriosityGPT - AI tool for asking better questions chedva.substack.com - Weekly newsletter with questions, musings, and thoughts and specifically this issue about integration Broadway shows: "Gypsy" starring Audra McDonald, "Death Becomes Her" Orca Global Network - Global network of Israeli business owners

 In this deeply personal conversation, Meirav Rosenberg, CEO and founder of Paz Interactive and author-to-be, joins Chedva to explore the complexities of balancing multiple roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and partner. Together, they dive into themes of vulnerability, taking up space in the world, and the crucial importance of prioritizing yourself to better serve others. Meirav shares her journey of self-discovery, the lessons learned from writing "60 Dates to Love," and how fine-tuning your values leads to effortless alignment. The conversation touches on managing internal voices, the challenges of motherhood, and the power of asking difficult questions to live authentically. Key Topics: The courage and challenge of taking up space, especially as parents Managing the internal dialogue and voices in our heads Prioritizing self-care as the foundation for good parenting Values-based prioritization in life and work The relationship between authenticity and success in business and dating The importance of letting go and surrendering control Finding purpose and calling while maintaining balance The intersection of personal growth and professional success Burnout, functional medicine, and listening to your body's wisdom Notable Quotes: "I want to take up space... I have a certain purpose and a certain duty to speak for people who don't have a voice." "One of the things that I prioritize is, how can I be a great mom? It's focusing on me first, which is the first priority." "Filling up my cup so that I can help and I can be there for them in my best way." "I feel like our body tells us exactly everything." "The bigger the why, the easier the how." "I'm not scared of dying, I'm just scared of not living exactly the way that I want to." "The more honest I got with myself... the less effort [I needed]." "Sometimes I have to ask myself those hard questions, but I do love asking questions." Meirav's Powerful Question: "What do you want?" - A simple yet profound question she asks women to help them express their desires and live more authentically. Resources Mentioned: Meirav's free resource "Dating Like a CEO" Paz Interactive - Meirav's digital marketing agency Chedva's Curiosity GPT Chedva's newsletter on Substack

In this engaging conversation, Lee Rotenberg shares her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of fun and authenticity in her work. She reflects on the challenges of defining success and happiness, the lessons learned from founding and selling companies, and the significance of being present and true to oneself. Lee discusses how her recent LinkedIn post about prioritizing fun in her next career chapter resonated with many, and explains why internal success matters more to her now than external validation. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of entrepreneurship, from the excitement of early-stage creation to the challenges of scaling and fundraising, offering valuable insights for anyone navigating their own path to fulfillment. Key Topics: Prioritizing fun and authenticity in your career decisions Redefining success beyond external validation Finding happiness through presence and mindfulness Navigating the emotional roller coaster of entrepreneurship The joy of early-stage business building versus the challenges of scaling The drawbacks of fundraising for founders Learning how to evolve and adapt throughout your journey The importance of taking action on ideas rather than overthinking Moving from ArtSetters to Ivy to Clay to Hulken Notable Quotes: "This next era of my work chapter will be one where I'm essentially focusing more on fun." "I want to have delight in my day to day more than I want to have success." "Being successful is being happy... being very present and not trying to think about what is next." "When you're able to truly just be you and not worry about the external voices or external wants, that makes me invigorated." "If you want something too badly, it rarely happens. When you're living your best self, you become a magnet for all different areas of your life." "People's biggest mistake is they wait to launch or they're overthinking the steps. You need something very shitty in a sense, because that's the only way it's going to get better." "Fear can still stay there and you can do it while you're scared." Lee's Powerful Question: "What's the why behind what you're doing? Ask yourself the why and be really honest with yourself on that answer." Resources Mentioned: "Let Them" by Mel Robbins - described as "the most life-changing book" Lee has recently read "How to Be a No Limit Person" by Dr. Wayne Dyer - recommended as motivational and energizing "You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero - endorsed as an excellent read Lee's podcast with Alex called "Unfinished Business" - interviews with inspiring entrepreneurs Follow Lee on LinkedIn for authentic insights on entrepreneurship  

 In this episode, Chedva talks with Georgi Enthoven, founder and author of "Work That's Worth It." They explore how to find meaningful work that balances personal fulfillment with positive impact. Georgi challenges the false dichotomy between doing good and earning well, and shares her journey from tech executive to purpose-driven thought leader. This conversation fits perfectly with the season's theme of questioning traditional priorities in our work lives. Key Topics: The meaning behind "Work That's Worth It" and why our career choices matter Finding purpose within our 90,000-hour career journey Challenging the divide between profitable careers and meaningful impact The importance of being compensated fairly while doing good How to discover work that energizes rather than depletes you Embracing a beginner's mindset throughout your career Notable Quotes: "You can't convince ambitious people to give up income. It's about finding options where you can do good and well for yourself." "I really want the kindest, most empathetic people to get to the top levels where they are pulling the levers of decision making." "If you are doing good in the world and you burn out in two years, we lose you." "Work that you're meant to do adds value to your life - it gives you incredible challenges that make you wake up eager to get out of bed." "The powerful question is: what is worth your 90,000 hours?" Georgi's Powerful Question: "What is worth your 90,000 hours?" Resources & Links: Purchase "Work That's Worth It": Available at major booksellers Calculate your remaining career hours: https://georgienthoven.com/ Follow Georgi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgienthoven/ Subscribe to Chedva's newsletter: chedva.substack.com

 Chaya Gilboa, a Talmud scholar and activist who grew up in an ultra-Orthodox community in Jerusalem, shares her journey of reclaiming Jewish texts that women were traditionally forbidden to study. The conversation explores the intersection of spirituality, embodiment, and challenging patriarchal systems, as well as how ancient wisdom can provide comfort during times of crisis. Key Topics: Chaya's experience studying Talmud as a revolutionary act The emotional and spiritual dimensions of reclaiming religious texts Integrating body and mind in spiritual and intellectual practice Creating new approaches to ancient texts during crisis and war Balancing calling, career, and family life Notable Quotes: "I was pushed out of the door and I looked for the window to go back in." "I couldn't breathe. I needed to take walks at Ben Gurion University because my body was not even excited, I was uplifted in ways that I didn't even know knowledge could uplift me." "For many years, growing up, I didn't really know my body. We never talked about the body - the body was something that either you are ashamed of or you need to cover." "I'm 41 and it's the first time in my life that I'm in sync with what I love to do, what I'm passionate about, what I'm good at, and what I think the world needs." Chaya's Powerful Question: "What am I chasing after, and what am I running from?" Resources Mentioned: Chaya's beautiful website Follow Chaya on Instagram: @chayagilboa  

Or Alterman-Barnea, co-founder and CEO of Mekomot Shmurim (Safe Place), discusses how she transformed theatrical experiences for neurodivergent children. After her own son's autism diagnosis, Or created performances where the lights stay on, sounds remain gentle, and children can move freely without judgment—revolutionizing cultural accessibility across Israel. Key Topics: The concept of "relaxed performances" designed for neurodivergent audiences Creating theater experiences without surprises or sensory overload The power of community in addressing unmet needs Or's journey from cultural journalist to inclusive theater pioneer The philosophy of adapting systems to people instead of forcing people to adapt Notable Quotes: "When we started it and thought about 'safe place,' we didn't imagine what kind of meaning 'safe place' would have for us now." "Every single spoiler that you can think of. There are no surprises." "It's like we call it a 'shoosh-free zone.' Nobody will shoosh them." "Many, many families came and said to us, 'This is our first time in the theater.' And we're talking about seven-year-old children, nine-year-old children." "We're so used to telling this child, 'Listen, if you can't sit then go out'... But no, we will leave the door open. It's on your terms now." Or's Powerful Question: "When was the last time you thought about who makes the decisions for you? Who decides how people are supposed to dress, to act, to spend their free time, to sit in the theater?" Resources Mentioned: The 2025 Safe Place Festival is happening this month - details and tickets are here Big Umbrella Festival (inspiration for Safe Places): Lincoln Center Mama-Zone Facebook community (Or's previous initiative): Join here

In this conversation with former Resonai COO Natalie Rozenboim, Chedva explores what happens when we achieve the goals we've worked toward, only to discover they don't feel right anymore. They discuss the pandemic's role in prompting career reassessment, the guilt associated with questioning achievements we've worked hard for, and how to navigate changes in what we want from life. Key Topics: The pandemic as a catalyst for questioning career paths The identity crisis of outgrowing professional achievements Guilt and confusion when questioning the life we've built Breaking free from the "sunk cost" mentality Generational differences in approaching work-life integration Notable Quotes: "There's like this pressure to find your thing, which has to encompass so many things. It has to be not only how you make a living, but also something you're passionate about." "You almost gaslight yourself. Like, why would I not want this? The problem is me." "We tend to think we just need to decide what we want and just go for it, but I think it's more of a continuous quest." "We mistake control for progress - holding tightly to answers gives an illusion of forward movement, even when we're standing still." Natalie's Powerful Question: "Am I building the life I want to live, or do I feel trapped in this life? And what am I going to do about it?" Resources & Links: Connect with Natalie on IG https://www.instagram.com/natalie_roz/ Kelly Mindell's blog post "The Year I Built a Life I Don't Want" Book recommendation: "The Neverending Story" by Michael Ende Article: "The Great Resignation and Rethinking Priorities Post-Pandemic"

In this solo episode, Chedva Ludmir introduces the new season of Looks Like Work, focusing on three pivotal questions: What do you do when your dream no longer feels right? How do you reclaim a system built to suppress you? And how are you questioning traditional priorities? She explores the concept of "gateway questions" - those gentle inquiries that help us approach what we're afraid to confront - and shares why staying with questions might be more valuable than rushing to answers. Key Topics: Introduction to the three guiding questions for Season 3 The power of staying with questions even when we crave certainty Using "gateway questions" to approach difficult life decisions How world events have led to deeper questioning of our choices Notable Quotes: "When the world feels like it's on fire, there's this powerful urge to flock behind anyone speaking in exclamation points." "We need gateway questions, those gentle indirect inquiries that help us approach what we're really afraid to confront." "What I could ask myself at that point was: when will I be ready to ask myself that question?" Resources Mentioned: Chedva's newsletter at chedva.substack.com Previous seasons of Looks Like Work podcast

Hey folks, I'm back for a solo episode and this one is especially lighthearted… no, of course I'm kidding. But I really wanted to take a minute to talk about grief and I'd love to hear your thoughts and feelings too.    Links & resources   You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

I first met Stephie on a retreat back in 2016. I was wildly out of my comfort zone, discovering a lot about the entrepreneur I wanted to be and about leadership - and a new incredible friend. Since then, Stephie and I have found that our value systems as people and as entrepreneurs are aligned, and I'm so grateful to finally have this conversation with her. We cover the place of questions and curiosity in entrepreneurship, inspiration and productivity, burnout and being a constant outsider and in-betweener.   Links & resources   Unboxable  Double You  Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Fair warning? This is one of those episodes. Ask me what's it about, and I'll respond by asking: what is it not about? I met up with Orit Gidali – like, actually packed my microphone and went to meet her – who's one of my favorite poets and writers. Over a few glasses of red, we talked about… the human condition, I guess: Sorrow and joy, scarcity and expansiveness, attachment styles and meditation, divorce and heartbreak and exaggerated earrings and sex and passion and the brokenness of us all and violence and war and hurt and vulnerability and empathy and compassion. It's one of my favorite episodes ever, even with the wine and acoustics messing up some of the sound - maybe even more thanks to that, actually. Enjoy. Links & resources   Orit Gidali's website (English | Hebrew) Sadnaot Habait creative writing school (English | Hebrew) Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Gil had a front row seat to startup life and to working with celebrities. That experience, as well as defining and differentiating himself as an Israeli lawyer in an American business school, has taught him the value of stories and messaging. We speak about startup life, marketing, influencers, career trajectories and important questions. Links & resources   Stardust Ventures Silverstein Properties Gil's podcast with Einat Ben Moshe (Hebrew)  Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Many of us can be pretty jaded or cynical when it comes to spirituality - I know I can - but knowing Hila has completely changed my perception of spiritual guides. Hila is as funny, pragmatic, sharp and smart as she is spiritual and heart-led. In this conversation, we dive into notions of abundance and scarcity, ego, effort and how they reflect in life and work.    Links & resources   Hila on Instagram (Hebrew) Hila and Danielle's podcast - My Happy Place (Hebrew) Subscribe to the LLW newsletter    Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Hop into the time machine and join me and my friend Natalie Shell, Co-founder of Message Lab as we explore curiosity, creativity, the concept of rest and how we can grow in times of turbulence and be kinder to ourselves and to each other.   Links & resources Natalie on Linkedin Message Lab TTT - the poem Natalie mentions Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

In this solo episode, Chedva offers reflections on personal narratives, brave question-asking an self reflection.   She also explores:  “Coming out” culturally as in between definitions Interviewing other people (or listening to those interviews) as a gateway to understanding yourself Self curation in an era of oversharing Links & resources   Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Episode title: The magic of doing - with Lior Barr   Episode description:  Lior is an educator, a musician, a podcast host and editor and also the editor of Looks Like Work. What's more interesting is Lior's journey to being a digital nomad in tandem with his wife and baby, while defining his identity, building a brand new work-from-anywhere business and dealing with a world in upheaval. If you're thinking about becoming a digital nomad or starting a new side project - this episode is for you.   Links & resources Lior's website Lior on Facebook and on Youtube Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Some people are alarmed by getting “no” as an answer, some people are unphased by it, and some people – like Inbal Boussiba – hate it, and yet use it as their fuel. Inbal and I met up (in person! groundbreaking) to discuss the engine at the foundation of her entrepreneurship, both in the fashion world and the social impact world. We also went deep into our feelings following the last year in Israel - the judicial overhaul attempts, the protests to preserve democracy and the current war. So please note, we get political.   Links & resources Belle & Sue FEZ Studio The Lost Treasure (Hebrew) Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Esty Bitton Shushan wasn't familiar with the term “feminist”, she sat in meetings dedicated to literally erasing women from ads, radio shows and other narratives and had to write op-eds using her first name initials in order to be able to participate in a man's world - yet she became a feminist icon who's brought feminism and choice to the lives of many haredi (ultra orthodox Jewish) women in Israel and beyond as the founder of Nivcharot. I sat down with Esty to discuss activism, art, burnout and what the world sees out of the norm (and how it penalizes women for it until it becomes normalized). Released just after Passover, when we celebrate redemption and freedom, this is the episode for you if you're seeking courage beyond virtual shackles.   Links & resources Nivcahrot Esty's artwork on Etsy Esty's poetry book (Hebrew) Subscribe to the LLW newsletter  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

She went from being Married At First Sight's first wedding officiant to co-found a startup supporting people going through divorce and other life changes. Still, there's a core truth that runs through Jenny's career - and it has to do with creating and maintaining systems, taking care of people but also challenging and questioning authority.  In a conversation that could have happened in our IG DMs, we discuss Russian and heartbreak, showing up in the way that you can, and taking a moment to think about things before providing an immediate response.    Links & resources Fresh Starts Registry, Jenny's company A Fresh Story - Olivia and Jenny's podcast Subscribe to the LLW newsletter    Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Coaching, guiding and managing alongside startup founders and investors doesn't sound like a particularly relaxing or slow-paced lifestyle. And yet Rotem Kazir has managed to find her own rhythm within the mayhem - and she's now coaching founders and investors to take a beat and listen for their pulse, too. We talked about Rotem's journey in HR, tech and coaching, discovering the mind-body connection as it translates to the hectic entrepreneur's life and how this all reflects in times of crisis and war.   Links & resources: Rotem's Linkedin  Subscribe to the LLW newsletter   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Episode description:  It takes a special kind of courage to gain the professional validation you've been looking for your entire career - and then be willing to put it aside in order to restructure your work life to actually work for you. Sivan did just that, and in that, found how silencing distraction is helping her achieve what really matters to her. We discussed clarity and liminal spaces, selfishness and entitlement (are they really that awful?), asking questions and so much more. This one's for you if you've been thinking about boundaries lately, or if you're interested in an open and honest conversation.   Links & resources: Sivan's Linkedin  Millennials in Tech - Sivan's podcast Subscribe to the LLW newsletter   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

How do I describe this episode? I can only say I hope every Looks Like Work episode will reach the depth, vulnerability and exploration that I've experienced in my conversation with Yakir. Dr. Yakir Englander is the Senior Director of Leadership at the Israeli American Council, a lecturer at the HAR rabbinical school in NY and a Fullbright scholar. He's also a dear relative and a constant seeker. In our conversation we cover how it is to be a bridge, to get comfortable with questions and with the in-between and link between worlds of experience, knowledge and faith - and how it all connects to our work in life. I hope you'll take time to sit with this episode and that it will stir or echo something within you.    Links & resources: Yakir's email IAC Gvanim Subscribe to the LLW newsletter   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Welcome back to Looks Like Work! To kick off season 2, I sat down with Olivia Dreizen Howell, Co-founder and CEO for a frank and vulnerable conversation about fresh starts… meaning, my own fresh start. Olivia, who was a guest on LLW last season, came to play host and interviewed me about what I learned from my divorce, what it's like to lose your voice and gain it back and what to expect for season 2 of LLW. I hope you'll find truth and value in our conversation, and maybe also giggle with us once or twice. Links & resources: Olivia's episode on season 1 Fresh Starts Registry, Olivia's company A Fresh Story - Olivia and Jenny's podcast Simple Script to Support Your People Subscribe to the LLW newsletter   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!  

Working from home wasn't always as prevalent as it is now. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Frieda Wiley and we discuss the ins and outs of working outside of a traditional office. Whether you're a work-from-home veteran or you're new to the experience, this episode has something to help you thrive and, hopefully, feel understood. Dr. Frieda is a licensed pharmacist-turned-freelance medical writer, consultant, and entrepreneur who has worked from home for more than a decade. Her personal struggles with physical and mental health inspired her to also become the author of her book Telecommuting Psychosis: From Surviving to Thriving While Working in Your Pajama Pants. Her writing can also be found in publications such as O, The Oprah Magazine, US News & World Report, Merck, and the National Institutes of Health. In this episode, we discuss: What it was like working from home before it was popular  Finding routine as a work from home employee Setting clear boundaries and being an advocate for yourself The beauty of compassion in work from home situations Developing strategies to showcase your work when you're not in the office If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates! Links: Visit Dr. Frieda's Website Order Dr. Frieda's Book Telecommuting Psychosis Follow Dr. Frieda on LinkedIn Try Dr. Frieda's Favorite Planning App, Toggl

We've all heard phrases like “change your mindset, change your life,” but if you've tried it you know it's easier said than done. Today, I'm joined by Christina Langdon, Founder & CEO of Christina Langdon High Performance Coaching & Consulting. Together, we discuss the power of changing your mindset, and Christina shares some of her favorite best practices.   Christina is a passionate entrepreneur, mentor, and coach. After 30 years running sales and marketing teams at big-name media brands including Martha Stewart Living and Fast Company, she now helps leaders and businesses achieve more than they thought possible. She is known for building great brands and strengthening and sharpening teams and talent.   In this conversation, we explore– The unsustainable nature of the hustle Leading yourself first Getting off the hamster wheel The importance of being in touch with your feelings (preferably before you get sick) Noticing where we're giving away our power The meditative power of a simple walk   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Visit Christina's Website Follow Christina on Instagram Find Christina on LinkedIn Join Christina's Newsletter Read this Ira Glass quote Order The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan

Not everyone knows exactly what career they want. For many, it's a journey of scrappiness and learning as you go. This week, I'm joined by Yaniv Rivlin, the founding CEO of Bird, an e-scooter ride share service. He is also the best selling author of Life as a Startup. In this conversation, we explore– Building the portfolio of life How ghostwriting my be cheaper than therapy Outsourcing your weaknesses and playing to your strengths Finding balance and management between the “weeds” and the vision How everything is complicated and easy simultaneously Taking time between hustles If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Follow Yaniv on Instagram @yaniv.rivlin Checkout Bird Order Life as a Startup

Manifesting isn't always a magical, stylish experience. Sometimes, it's as simple as showing up as your authentic self and screaming into the void in your bathrobe.  Today, I'm joined by TikTok and Instagram favorite, Anna Przybylski. She is a well-loved content creator who helps people be kinder to themselves, deal with burnout, and be the directors of chaos in their lives. Join in to hear us discuss: Managing guilt around productivity and delegation Emotional barriers as a generational concern when considering posting content Holidays and the stress (and sometimes tears) they bring for many Turning sad and tired into a niche Normalizing a variety of feelings and letting them all be felt Burnout and accepting that you can't force it to be over   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Visit Anna's Website Follow Anna on Instagram Follow Anna on TikTok Buy Anna's Merch!

Looks Like Work is back! In this solo episode, Chedva offers reflections on celebration & self-forgiveness, brings awareness to National Women's Small Business month, and continues our conversation about anti-ambition.    She also explores:  Her history with ambition and proving herself to naysayers  Living for your children vs. living for your parents and ancestors  Hamilton and being “young, scrappy, and hungry” like your country  Critiquing the lie of “effortlessness”   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates! Links: More episodes of Look Like Work for you:Being radically generous - with Amelia Hruby There's another way - career journeys & map-making with Anne Ditmeyer Is it the age of anti-ambition or are we all simply exhausted? What Comes After Ambition? -Elle Thinking Through the Calendar - Culture Study A Productive Person: the link between productivity and self-worth and how to break it - Kaur Space When Your Past Inhibits Progress - Cup of Ambition

How do you celebrate big changes in your life? Olivia Howell is the CEO and Co-Founder of Fresh Starts Registry and March Lion Media. At Fresh Starts she helps people create registries for all their life milestones, not just weddings or having children.   In this conversation, we explore– The importance of making hard decisions & the support we need to make them How Olivia's launched two businesses with her sister Olivia's career journey and what work looks like for her now Divorce stories and sharing our personal lives online Embracing an anti-shame, anti-judgment perspective to change   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Visit the Fresh Starts Registry website  Follow Fresh Starts on Instagram and Facebook  Olivia & Chedva's recent faves: Somebody Feed Phil, Only Murders in the Building, Summer Breakdown by Colleen Temple For more information on the course Olivia is launching, follow her & Chedva on Instagram @thedigitalyenta & @chedvakl

What do you do when you know what you want to do? This week I'm talking to sustainability consultant and founder Eliza Erskine about what work looks like for her. Eliza Erskine is the founder of Green Buoy Consulting, a sustainability consultancy that provides ESG consulting, strategy and B Corp certification to high-growth companies. In this conversation, we talk about sustainability in all levels of our careers, businesses and lives. Together we explore– What ESG is & why it matters How Eliza got into corporate responsibility (even when no one else cared about sustainability) The purpose of company values & how to implement them Seasonality vs now-or-never thinking Romanticizing “the one thing” in your work Tips for managing your email inbox sustainably   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Connect with Eliza on LinkedIn Learn more about Green Buoy Consulting Oldest daughter hotline Free Time by Jenny Blake  

How does failure help us grow? And how does not knowing something make us even more experimental? This week I'm talking to people ops expert Lisa Zaythik about what work looks like for her. Lisa is the Chief People Officer and part of the founding team at AppsFlyer. In this conversation, we talk about career growth, start-up growth, and personal growth. Together we explore– How Lisa transitioned from marketing to operations The value of failure & challenging work The importance of organizational culture Envisioning the future of your work and the legacy of your company Staying inspired while working hard Social impact & social responsibility   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn Learn more about AppsFlyer Watch Never Stop Dreaming on Netflix Read No Room for Small Dreams by Shimon Peres  

What does it mean to do less while following your passions? This week I'm talking to creative coach and workshop facilitator Anne Ditmeyer about what work looks like for her.   Anne is American by birth and French by hard work. Pulling inspiration from her design background, she guides people through creative experiences—which includes mapping on bananas—to get participants out of their head and looking at the world in new ways.   In this conversation, we look at the world in new ways through the lens of creativity & work. Together we explore– Anne's journey from designer to creative coach How her blog & French bureaucracy inspired her career path The power of doing less The discomfort of failure and success   If you enjoy our conversation, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates!   Links: Visit Anne's website Read Anne's blog Prêt à Voyager Follow Anne on Instagram @pretavoyager

Today's episode is a little different than usual, because I'm getting personal and talking about suffering. This year has been hard for so many people, and I want to encourage all of us (myself included) to acknowledge our suffering and to admit that we might not be able to do our best work all the time.  This episode is for you if you're feeling overwhelmed, upset, exhausted or in pain. I hope it resonates, and if it does please DM me on Instagram! I love talking to listeners.   Links: The Gap - This American Life Chedva's playlist for suffering Yoga for Suffering - Yoga with Adriene Color Me Loverly's TikTok  Radical Candor by Kim Scott  

How do you grow and challenge yourself without burning out?   This week I'm in conversation with Efrat Dagan. Efrat is the CEO and Founder of WorkAround, Strategic Talent Acquisition Services. Efrat has led Google Israel's Staffing for about a decade and managed the recruitment of six Google offices in Europe, including Israel, Russia and Northern Europe and Waze. Simply put: Efrat can help figure out your growth pains.   In this episode, we talk about— What work looks like for Efrat The value of doing more than one thing Efrat's career evolution at Google and beyond  The importance of partnerships & collaborations Growing a business in alignment with your goals and energy How the pandemic has changed work and employee experience   If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!   Links: Visit the WorkAround website (Hebrew) Follow Efrat on LinkedIn Do What You Love Mug

This week we've got another Rooms & Words team member on the podcast! Madison T. Clark is a content writer and social media strategist with over eight years of experience in the communications sector. She's an avid traveler, a long-time remote worker, and a full-time freelance writer.   Together we talk about– Madison's freelance career & what work looks like for her What “ the future of work” looks like right now Cultivating a team of freelancers How unrecognized work contributes to burnout Learning to talk about money and conflict Creating new opportunities for the next generation   If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!   Links: Visit Madison's website Connect with Madison on LinkedIn Learn more about Rooms & Words Mentioned in the episode: Nicole Antoinette, Refinery29 Money Diaries

What's your relationship with productivity? Are you working to grow at all costs or are you centering ease & joy in your day-to-day?    Today I've invited Liron Lavi Turkenich back on the podcast to join me in conversation about our last episode with Jenny Blake and her book Free Time.    Together we talk about– Reframing productivity so it's not about growing at all costs Creating systems that serve us Letting go of the guilt we feel when time management tools don't work for us Writing ourselves permission slips to find our flow How to find pockets of time to recharge   Liron shares so many amazing resources. You'll definitely want to check out the links below, then please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!   Links: Listen to Jenny Blake on episode 14 of Looks Like Work Listen to Liron on episode 2 of Looks Like Work Find Liron's work & subscribe to her newsletter Follow Liron on Instagram Rahaf Harfoush  Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals  

I love Jenny Blake's book Free Time so much that my entire team is reading it together and implementing the ideas. So, as you can imagine, I am thrilled to have Jenny on the podcast today!   Jenny Blake is an author and podcaster who helps entrepreneurs move from friction to flow through smarter systems, powered by Delightfully Tiny Teams. She is the author of Pivot and Free Time, which just came out in March.   In this episode, we talk about– The value of adding “founder time” to your week How to help yourself & your team members work exclusively on things you love Learning to delegate so you can earn twice as much in half the time Building your business to grow with ease   I love this conversation so much. I hope you'll listen and share it! Then tune in next week for a follow-up conversation with past podcast guest Liron Lavi Turkenich about how we're implementing the book in our work and lives.   Links: Find Jenny's book & podcast at itsfreetime.com And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!  

What does it mean to you to start from scratch? How often have you done it in your career or life? This week I'm talking to Osnat Benari. Osnat is a product strategist and builder and an active mentor for startups and young professionals. She is the founder of Web3 strategy & creative agency DragonsCanFly and the author of Starting from Scratch, a book about managing change and making smart career choices.   In this episode, we talk about— The three things you need to start from scratch The importance of having a learning mindset How to develop a personal board of directors   This conversation left me feeling so inspired to keep following my interests and starting from scratch. And now thanks to Osnat, I have a process to guide me.   Links: DragonsCanFly  Starting from Scratch Follow Osnat on LinkedIn From Fraud to Freedom by Phyllis Njoroge   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

This week I'm excited to welcome our Looks Like Work producer onto the podcast! Amelia Hruby is the founder of the feminist podcast studio Softer Sounds the host of Off the Grid podcast about leaving social media, and the editor of this show!   In this episode, we talk about— her intentional process for starting her business writing ourselves permission slips to “grow slow” creating flexible, shame-free boundaries with our work how radical generosity requires energetic sovereignty   This is a powerful conversation for entrepreneurs and anyone who wants to change their life and live in alignment with their values. I hope you enjoy it.     Links: Softer Sounds Studio Off the Grid podcast Courses Amelia mentioned: Feminist Business School, The Alignment Course, Laura Holway Amelia's podcast episode on energetic sovereignty Amelia's Podcaster Archetype Quiz Quitted podcast   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

How confident are you in your voice? In today's episode, Hadar Shemesh joins us to discuss how she helps non-native English speakers raise their voice and cultivate permission to speak. Hadar is a linguistics expert and communication coach who's worked with companies like Google, Microsoft, Facebook, IBM, GM, Wework, Wix (and many more!). In this episode, she shares how pursuing her dream of becoming an actress made her hyper-aware of her “otherness,” and then led her to create a business helping speakers of English as a second language communicate confidently and joyfully in English. We also talk about the lies of “standard” English, our bilingual households, combating perfectionism as content creators, and addressing conflict with a global audience. Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!   Links: Hadar's website Hadar's InFluency Podcast Who is your madwoman in the attic?

2022 is being called the year of anti-ambition, but is that really the case? In this solo episode, Chedva unpacks her relationship with ambition – the good, the bad & the ugly of it – while refusing to agree that being ambitious is inherently toxic.   She explores:  why entering the workforce was so important to her as an ultra-Orthodox woman when her start-up ambitions led her deep into burnout & how COVID made her face the realities of work amidst crisis   Tune in for an open and honest reflection on why we don't actually want our work to be “on steroids.” As well as Chedva's thoughts on how we can heal our burnout without giving up our ambitions in the process.    Links: “2022 may be the year my ambition truly dies” in The Cut  The Age of Anti-Ambition in New York Times Listen to Chedva discuss “Torah & Tech in Israel” on BBC's The Documentary Podcast “I'm not asking people to change their accent for me, just asking for basic respect” Maitreyi Ramakrishnan on Twitter  Rejecting mispronounced & whitened names in Toronto Star “It's harder than ever to care about anything” in Time ‘My dark secret': Orthodox women reveal their abortion stories in Forward   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Are you waiting for career opportunities to come your way? Or are you creating opportunities to bring your dream job closer? Maya Grossman is a marketing executive, blogger, speaker, podcast host, and best-selling author who helps people become the CEO of their careers. She's worked with Microsoft, Google, Tesla, and many other successful companies.  In this episode, she shares how she shifted from “Maya-the-travel-agen” to “Maya-the-marketer” to “Maya-the-career-coach.” We also discuss how to find your purpose & passion, ways to intentionally craft your career, and the magic of LinkedIn.   Links: Maya's website Follow Maya on LinkedIn Follow Maya on Instagram Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

What can plants teach us about personal growth and business growth? A lot, it turns out! Elisheva Manekin is a plant lover, home decor designer, and the founder of Loop Living. In this episode, she shares how her passion for plants led her to create a thriving e-commerce business, selling botanical wares for beautiful homes. Together, we discuss: believing in ourselves even when others don't, growing healthy & profitable businesses, managing a team, becoming confident with money, and more.   Links & resources: Loop Living Follow Loop Living on Instagram Follow Loop Living on Instagram (in Hebrew) Make Life Beautiful by Studio McGee Katy Leeson tweet about overworking  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Have you ever felt burnout? When was the last time it happened, and how did you respond? In this episode, Chedva shares her experiences with burnout and chronic illness as a successful entrepreneur. Then, she welcomes her team to the pod! Rooms and Words team members, Lauren Turner, Michal Shemesh and Navriti Sood join us to reflect on the first six episodes of Looks Like Work and to share their experiences with work, parenting, culture, and of course— burnout.   Links & resources: Katy Leeson tweet about overworking The 7 Types of Rest that Every Person Needs Closing My Restaurant Forced Me to Learn How to Take Care of Myself Can't Even by Anne Helen Petersen  Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski Rooms & Words Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the Looks Like Work newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

How often has a poem written by a stranger made you feel seen? Gili Yuval is a poet whose career spans marketing, events, museums, and more. In this conversation, we discuss her career journey across countries, the challenges of setting boundaries with your work & your art, inspirations for and responses to her poetry about work, and transforming her writing into a business while keeping a 9-to-5 job. Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

How do you stay inspired when making art is your full-time job? Lital Gold is a designer and artist who has worked with global brands including Free People, Anthropologie, Tory Burch and Kate Spade. She also teaches painting workshops at companies like Netflix and Facebook. In this conversation, we discuss how Lital landed her first job with Free People, the many evolutions of her career as a freelance artist and textile designer, the challenges of being a new manager at the start of the pandemic, and how she stays creatively inspired by drawing every day – even if it's just five lines.  Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!   Links: Lital's website Lital's shop Lital's Instagram Katy Leeson tweet about overworking  

Close your eyes for a second and imagine what authority sounds like to you. Did it sound anything like your own voice? Casey Erin Clark is a professional actress who, after 18 months on tour with Les Miserables, read the book Half the Sky and got very fired up about issues facing women in the world today. She co-founded Vital Voice Training where she lives out her bio "Loud girl learns to amplify others."  Casey's also one of my favorite people to have meaningful conversations with. In this one, we talk about SO MANY topics, including: accessing your true voice (and not trying to change it to fit!), code switching, falling in love with your many focus areas and learning to live with the fact that your big childhood dream isn't your only dream anymore, working with partners who have different work styles (and brains), understanding that you deserve ease, pleasure and comfort – and that they hold no less value than perfection.   Links & resources: Vital Voice Training  Casey's Website  Follow Casey on Twitter & Instagram Dreamers & Doers Sorry to Bother You (film) Rachel Wynn on Casey's podcast Voice Is Anne Helen Peterson's newsletter & her book Can't Even Hustle and Float by Rahaf Harfoush Rahaf Harfoush on Voice Is Katy Leeson tweet about overworking Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

One of my first memories of Yali Harari - CEO and Co-Founder of Innovesta, former investor and serial entrepreneur - is her giving me a hug when someone hurt my feelings. I immediately knew that her brand of leadership is one I want to follow.  In this conversation, we discuss why there's no “one size fits all” kind of leader, what the true meaning of impact is and how empathy, values and business all interact.    Links & resources: Follow Yali on LinkedIn Innovesta Synergy Business Associates Katy Leeson tweet about overworking Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

There are many ways to rewrite your career, but have you ever thought about rewriting how language is written? Liron Lavi Turkenich is the inventor of Aravrit, an experimental writing system presenting a set of hybrid letters merging Hebrew and Arabic. Liron is also an independent typeface designer, a researcher, a TEDx speaker and a really good friend (among other things).  In this episode, Liron shares her unique perspective of the world, how she merges and blends different things so magically - whether it is languages and fonts, professions, interests and even motherhood and career.   Links & resources: Find Liron's work & subscribe to her newsletter Follow Liron on Instagram Learn about Aravrit The One Thing by Gary Keller More about the Pomodoro Technique The Daily Duo Katy Leeson tweet about overworking   Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Why are you working right now? Not saying that you shouldn't be, but this conversation with Hamutal Schieber will definitely make you ask yourself some deep and pointed questions. Hamutal is the founder and CEO of Schieber Research, a keynote speaker and consultant, specializing in consumer goods, trends, and innovation strategy.  For the last 15 years, Hamutal has been a constant inspiration in my life and career. I feel so lucky to discuss some of the topics we both care about in this episode including burnout, passion, yoga, flexibility and learning.   Links & resources: Katy Leeson tweet about overworking The Peloton App Follow Hamutal on Instagram & LinkedIn Follow Schieber Research on Facebook & their website Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. And subscribe to the LLW newsletter for more updates from Chedva!

Introducing Looks Like Work, a podcast about what work really means to us and how to deal with it by Chedva Kleinhandler. Looks Like Work launches February 15, 2022. Subscribe to the LLW newsletter.