The SYCK Career Podcast,

In this episode of the Steer Career podcast, Alan sits down with James Gunaca, a product management expert and Kadima coach. James details his extensive career journey spanning roles at Amazon and other tech giants, offering insights into the pivotal decisions leading him to international opportunities. Learn how James navigated organizational challenges, market shifts, and personal aspirations to become a successful career coach. Tune in for valuable career advice and lessons on resilience and growth in the tech industry.

In this episode, Alan sits down with Jenna Minieri, a branding expert and Kadima coach who also works with displaced professionals at an outplacement company. She reveals the most common pitfalls that keep qualified candidates from getting noticed, shares the essential elements every resume and LinkedIn profile must have to pass the six-second screening test, and explains why the old job search playbook no longer works in 2025. Tune in to discover the strategies that separate successful job seekers from those who struggle for months, and learn how to position yourself as the obvious choice for your next role.

In this episode, host Alan Stein talks with Keith Anderson, founder of Career Alchemy, about making successful career pivots and standing out in competitive job markets. Keith shares his journey from earning less than $30,000 as a professor to securing prestigious roles at top tech companies through strategic networking and his "value validation projects". They discuss how to effectively conduct informational interviews, the importance of authenticity in your job search, and the challenges and rewards of transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship.

True leadership isn't about being nice. It's about being kind, honest, and challenging people to reach their full potential. In this episode, Alan Stein sits down with Dave Kline, former Bridgewater Associates leader turned management consultant, to explore the radical transparency that shaped Dave's leadership philosophy. Dave shares insights from his decade at Bridgewater, where feedback was constant and unfiltered, revealing how this approach built stronger teams despite its intensity. Learn how Dave and his wife are now helping managers through their management accelerator programs that have already transformed over 1,200 leaders. Tune in now!

In this episode, host Alan Stein sits down with Jeff Sipe, a seasoned technical recruiter with 5+ years at Google and 15+ years of recruiting experience. They dive into practical interview techniques including Jeff's CFAS method for answering hypothetical questions, the one-minute rule for "tell me about yourself," and the psychology behind making memorable first impressions in interviews. Tune in now!

In this episode, Alan Stein sits down with Kristi Coulter about her bestselling book "Exit Interview," exploring how she navigated Amazon's male-dominated environment while battling imposter syndrome. Kristi shares candid insights about the company's frugal approach to employee well-being, strategies for women to claim their seat at the table, and why diverse teams make better business decisions than homogeneous ones. Tune in now to discover how to own your career path even in the most challenging environments!

The reality of software engineering for the 99% who don't work at Big Tech ❓ In this episode, Alan sits down with John Crickett and talks about the differences between software engineering at Big Tech versus where most engineers actually work. They also discuss why interview practices like LeetCode make sense for companies receiving thousands of applications but are often counterproductive elsewhere, and why people skills become more critical than technical skills for career advancement. Tune in to gain valuable perspective on building an engineering career outside the Big Tech bubble.

In this episode, Alan sits down with Dexter Zhuang, founder of Money Abroad, to explore the fascinating journey from traditional corporate roles to building a portfolio career. Dexter shares his experience transitioning from tech giants like Dropbox to international ventures in Singapore, and finally to creating his own path. They also dive deep into relationship building, cold outreach strategies that actually work, and how to make successful career transitions across countries. Tune in to learn how to design your own path while maintaining the lifestyle you desire!

Has your job ever been eliminated unexpectedly? In this episode, career coach Anne Baker joins host Alan Stein to tackle the often-stigmatized world of "outplacement" services and share a bold new vision for helping displaced employees relaunch their careers. Drawing from her decades of experience in the corporate world, Anne discusses why mass layoffs are becoming more common in the age of AI, and why being let go is no longer the career "scarlet letter" it once was. They also dive deep into what's broken with traditional outplacement support, from inconsistent coaching quality to outdated approaches, while exploring modern solutions for what they call career "re-acceleration." Tune in to learn why traditional outplacement services need reimagining and how companies can better support their departing employees.

Tired of letting nerves sabotage your career opportunities? In this episode, communication coach Nausheen Chen reveals her journey from being a brand manager to becoming an expert public speaking coach, sharing how she went from "faking" confidence to truly embodying it. Alan and Nausheen dive deep into the two biggest blockers to effective communication - nerves and delivery - while offering practical strategies to overcome them. Tune in now!

Can being too humble hurt your job search? In Korean business culture, it might be the norm – but Western recruiters see things differently. In this episode, Alan sits down with Grant Sundbye, and they explore the challenges Korean professionals face in international job searches, from cultural differences in resume writing to LinkedIn optimization. They also discuss the contrasts between Korean and Western job search approaches and insider tips for standing out in interviews. Tune in to discover how cultural understanding and effective communication strategies can bridge the gap between Eastern and Western professional environments, and learn actionable tips you can apply to your own job search.

Can a single mentor relationship transform your entire career trajectory? In this episode of the Steer Your Career podcast, Omar Halabieh, Director of Software Development at Amazon Middle East and Africa, shares his journey from software manager to director, emphasizing how strategic mentorship played a pivotal role in his advancement. From securing his first mentor through an interview connection to leveraging these relationships for major career decisions, Omar provides practical advice on finding mentors, maintaining productive relationships, and standing out as a candidate in today's competitive job market. Discover why curiosity remains his top career advice and how investing in relationships before you need them can make all the difference. Listen to the full episode to learn how to build your own powerful mentorship network.

Tired of sending countless job applications into the void? There's a better way to land your next tech role, and it doesn't involve submitting another resume. In this episode, Alan sits down with Anemari Fiser, a former ThoughtWorks leader and tech career coach, to unpack the strategies for effective networking and career growth. Whether you're actively job hunting or building your professional network for future opportunities, this episode provides actionable strategies to take control of your career. Tune in now!

In this episode, Alan sits down with Al Dea, founder of The Edge of Work and a leadership development expert. Al uncovers the critical mindset shifts and skill gaps that many of today's leaders need to address to effectively guide their teams in our rapidly evolving workplace. Al explores the crucial transition from individual contributor to manager, highlighting why technical prowess alone isn't enough for leadership success. He delves into the importance of developing 'human skills' and how leaders can scale their impact across larger teams. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or looking to refine your managerial approach, this episode offers invaluable insights to elevate your leadership game. Tune in now to discover how you can bridge the leadership gap and unlock your team's full potential!

In this episode, Alan Stein, founder of Kadima Careers sits down with Nik Zechner, and shares his experiences working at tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Salesforce. He reveals valuable tips on landing jobs at these coveted companies and discusses the power of networking, preparation, and perseverance in career advancement. Tune in now to gain priceless career advice from a tech industry veteran and learn how to take control of your professional journey. 

Ever wondered what really happens behind closed doors during performance reviews at top companies? In this episode, Jason Rudman, former American Express leader and current Chief Member and Digital Experience Officer at BECU, join Alan Stein to pull back the curtain on corporate calibration processes. From navigating team dynamics to overcoming imposter syndrome, Jason shares candid insights from his journey through the ranks at Amex. Tune in now to understand corporate performance management and charting your own path to success.

Is your education truly preparing you for the complexities of the modern workplace? Join Alan as he explores career development and decision-making with Casey Dai, founder of Expanded Skills. They discuss the limitations of traditional education in equipping professionals for real-world challenges, the importance of developing critical thinking skills, and Casey's innovative approach to decision-making training for volatile industries.

Are you treating your job search like an entrepreneur would? In this eye-opening episode of Steer Your Career, host Alan Stein sits down with Varun Negandhi, founder of Beyond Grad and partner at an automotive consulting company. Varun shares his journey from international student to successful entrepreneur, offering a fresh perspective on job hunting for immigrants and professionals alike. Tune in to discover how adopting an entrepreneurial mindset can change your approach to job searching!

From Google AdWords to YouTube and cutting-edge AI research, Tom Leung's storied career at tech giant Google spans over a decade. In this episode of the Steer Your Career Podcast, host Alan Stein delves into Leung's journey as a top-rated product management director and his unique insights into Google's challenging interview process. Tom shares how the company's hiring practices have evolved, what sets product management interviews apart, and why even exceptional performers aren't immune to layoffs in today's tech landscape. Tune in now to gain a rare insider's perspective on building a successful career!

In this episode, Alan sits down with serial entrepreneur Peter Groverman to discuss the intricacies of managing a portfolio career. From AI consulting to global exports, Peter shares his experiences juggling multiple ventures and offers valuable insights on building relationships, seizing opportunities, and making an impact. Tune in now to learn how to diversify your professional life and maximize your potential!

Discover the secrets to landing your next great job and negotiating like a pro with former Amazon bar raiser Eric Hudson. In this episode, Alan Stein and Eric delve into the strategies that set successful job seekers apart in today's competitive market.   Discover effective networking techniques, learn how to craft impactful behavioral stories, and gain insights on navigating the negotiation process with confidence. Eric shares valuable tips on everything from securing interviews to finalizing your compensation package. Whether you're actively job hunting or looking to advance your career, this episode offers practical advice to help you in your professional journey.   Tune in now to elevate your job search skills and steer your career towards success!

In this episode, Founder & CEO of Kadima Careers, Alan Stein, asks podcast interview questions he never thought he would ever ask anyone. His guest, Dr. Vrnda ‘V' Boykin, leans into vulnerability for one of the first times and shares how her former life as a single mom, stripper, and a convict taught her to overcome adversity and succeed on her own terms. She says: “Shame is a huge motivator. . .and nightmares are fuel.”

Ever wondered what really sets you apart in a job interview? In this episode, Alan Stein is joined by career expert Mark Beal to dive into a compelling conversation about the critical role of soft skills. They discuss how these skills not only land you the job but also help you stand out among candidates with similar hard skills. Mark shares his insightful perspective on the importance of consistent curiosity and the power of asking questions to open doors to new opportunities. They also explore practical advice for students and professionals looking to elevate their career game. From resume tips to mastering interviews, Mark's real-world examples are sure to leave you inspired. Tune in now!

In this episode, our Founder and CEO Alan Stein and Beth Granger delve deep into the secrets of LinkedIn success. They uncover actionable strategies for leveraging the platform to build meaningful connections, cultivate relationships, and achieve your professional goals.   

In this episode, our Founder and CEO Alan Stein delves deep into the world of spiritual intelligence and quantum leadership with Kadima Careers coach, Amy Lynn Durham. They explore Amy Lynn's journey from corporate executive to spiritual intelligence coach, uncovering how she transformed her leadership style and cultivated authentic connections in the workplace. From navigating crisis management to redefining success beyond competition, Amy Lynn shares valuable insights on how to align your career with your authentic self and make wise, compassionate decisions even in times of stress.  

In this episode, I am joined by Lee McKiemann, a staff software engineer at Google. Lee shares his career journey, starting from working at small companies to joining major tech giants like Amazon, Meta (Facebook), and Google. Lee also opens up about being diagnosed with autism and how it has influenced his career and perspective on neurodiversity in the tech industry. Throughout the conversation, Lee's passion for his work shines through as he shares insights and anecdotes, featuring moments of info-dumping that highlight the depth of his expertise and enthusiasm.   Tune in to hear Lee's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into neurodiversity in the workplace.  

In this episode of the Steer Your Career podcast, I sat down with Robynn Story to delve into the intricacies of navigating the modern job market. From the evolving dynamics of the recruitment process to the importance of crafting impactful resumes and cover letters, we explored practical strategies for job seekers to stand out in a competitive landscape. Robynn shared invaluable insights on the significance of networking, the role of coaching in enhancing interview performance, and the necessity of maintaining professionalism throughout the job search journey. Tune in to gain actionable tips and valuable advice to navigate your career path effectively. Don't miss out on unlocking the secrets to securing your next job.  

In this episode,  I dive into insightful conversations on career development with Richa Bansal, founder of Pink Careers. We explore powerful strategies to advance your career, from strategic self-promotion to owning your narrative in the workplace.   Discover how to: ✅ Strategically Self-Promote: Learn how to effectively advocate for yourself and leverage your accomplishments without feeling salesy. ✅ Take Control of Your Career: Understand the importance of being proactive and driving your career trajectory. ✅ Navigate Career Transitions: Gain valuable insights into transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship while aligning with your values and goals.   Tune in to gain actionable tips and inspiration to steer your career towards success. Don't miss out – listen now and take charge of your professional journey!  

In this episode, I am joined by Ethan Evans, a former executive at Amazon who now helps train leaders to become executives. Ethan shares his experience at Amazon and his focus on developing people's careers. Ethan also discusses his insights on managing up and managing down, the importance of building relationships with leaders, and the balance between focusing on team needs and leader needs. And most importantly, he spills some powerful tips that candidates can use to get better results in interviews. Tune in now to gain valuable lessons and insights from former Amazon exec Ethan Evans!

In this episode, Annie Ma-Weaver, a former colleague of mine, shares her illustrious career path at Google spanning 14 years. She discusses her diverse roles and transitions within the company, from support to partnerships, management, sales ops, business development, and finally product management.  Annie emphasizes the importance of being deliberate and proactive in shaping one's career, paying attention to areas of investment and personal growth. She also highlights the significance of maintaining ambition and pushing forward, even while raising young children. Tune in to hear Annie Ma-Weaver's inspiring journey at Google and gain valuable insights for shaping your own career path!

In this episode, Alan Stein sits down with Ex-Googler and executive coach Nicholas Whitaker to explore strategies for navigating toxic work environments and taking charge of your career.   Nicholas shares invaluable insights drawn from his experience, offering practical tips and empowering advice to help listeners thrive in challenging professional settings. From building a strong support network to understanding personal values and boundaries, Nicholas emphasizes the importance of preparedness, curiosity, and self-compassion in achieving resilience and success.  Tune in now to gain actionable strategies for owning your career journey!  

In this episode, I sit down with Jay Bowden, a former Sales Managing Director at Google with a wealth of experience in career growth and leadership development. From confronting tough feedback to embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, Jay shares invaluable lessons learned throughout his career journey. We delve into strategies for managing adversities, building strong professional relationships, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.  

In this episode, I am joined by Kelsey Waldrop, a career strategist and coach, who shares the secrets to career success. From navigating internal mobility at Accenture to advising clients on strategic networking, Kelsey shares practical tips on setting clear goals, cultivating relationships, and negotiating effectively. We explore the importance of aligning personal values with career objectives and discuss the nuances of leveraging industry expertise to drive professional growth.    Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to thrive in your career and maxi  

In this podcast episode, I sit down with Zubin Pratap, a lawyer turned software engineer, to explore the journey of intentional career progression and the importance of embracing multiple steps along the way. Zubin shares valuable insights on navigating career transitions, emphasizing the significance of direction over speed in achieving success.  Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies from Zubin's inspiring journey. Don't miss out on this conversation—listen to the full episode now!  

In this episode, I had an insightful conversation with Greg Roche, an introverted networker, who teaches other introverts how to network. Drawing from his personal experiences early in his career, Greg shares his tips and tactics for building authentic relationships and networking. Greg emphasizes the importance of building relationships one-on-one and focusing on mutual benefit. He also highlights the power of networking and referrals in the job search process. Discover practical tips for building meaningful connections and leveraging the power of networking in your job search. Don't miss out on this episode - tune in now!

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Ken Keis, an esteemed author and President & CEO of Consulting Resource Group International Inc., where he shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming an author, speaker, and coach. He emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and offers tips on how to discover it. Dr. Keis also discusses the significance of clarity in making career decisions and the role of relationships in finding opportunities. Want to work with passion? Dr. Keis reveals the secrets to purpose-driven success. Tune in to the episode now! Get the freebie here: www.kenkeis.com/kadima

In this episode, I had the pleasure of having an insightful conversation with Dominick Namis, Head of Business Development at NeoPeople, where we discussed how to maximize your salary potential and helpful advice for negotiating your compensation. Drawing from personal experiences and industry insights, we explore the critical importance of salary negotiation, sharing actionable strategies to secure higher pay and  your financial growth. If you're ready to take charge of your financial future and elevate your career, this podcast is a must-listen. Tune in now and equip yourself with the expertise to navigate salary negotiations and achieve unparalleled success in your professional journey.  

In this episode, Alan is joined by career therapist and coach Jessica Sweet. They discuss the role of mindset in career success, common mental obstacles like imposter syndrome, and strategies for overcoming them. Jessica also shares her proven strategies, offering invaluable insights into networking and brand alignment. Prepare to reshape your career mindset and embark on a transformative journey with actionable insights and expert advice. Tune in now!  

In this episode, Alan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with acclaimed author and business consultant Dory Clark, where they dive into the ever-evolving landscape of careers in the age of AI. Clark shares invaluable insights on strategic career navigation, emphasizing the need for individuals to take control of their professional destinies.  

In this podcast episode, Shikhar Satchdev shares insights from his extensive job search experiment, where he went through the 250 application processes to get a deeper understanding of the job search.  As a philosophy graduate who shifted to an entirely different industry, Shikhar discusses strategies for standing out, including value-added presentations and cold emailing. The conversation also touched on the benefits of an efficient application process and combining different job search approaches.  Listen to the full episode for a deep dive into Shikhar's job search experiment and gain valuable tips you can apply to your job search to get a better chance at landing your next job. Tune in now!

In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Dulski, a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and board leader. We unravel Jennifer's remarkable journey from a pivotal moment at Yahoo, where she realized she was in the wrong job, to making the bold decision of taking a step back in her career, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling trajectory. We explore the importance of consciously choosing the right path for yourself, navigating internal narratives, and finding true passion in your career. Jennifer also shares valuable insights on how she ventured into board memberships. Her advice for aspiring board members, especially women, emphasizes the significance of starting small and gaining diverse experiences.  Listen to the episode now to get practical advice on how to accelerate your career!  

Mental health, once a topic shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging from the shadows to occupy a central position in the corporate realm. Organizations have recognized that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and they are increasingly adopting initiatives to promote employee mental health.  Embracing this shift towards prioritizing mental health is Newton Cheng, Director of Health + Performance at Google, who joins me today to share his personal journey with mental health and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way.   

In this episode, I am joined by Jeffrey Moss, the Founder and CEO of Parker Dewey, a company that bridges companies and students and makes the transition from college to career, as smooth as possible. We discuss the rise of micro-internships and how they are changing the way students and companies connect. Jeffrey shares his belief that micro internships should be a core part of both the university experience for learners and the recruiting process for employers.  

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jordan Cutler, a senior software engineer who has journeyed from being an intern at Twitter to his current role at Qualified. Jordan generously shares his tactics and strategies, shedding light on how he successfully navigated his way to the top. Moreover, he will provide invaluable tips on negotiating compensation and offer practical advice on how to climb the career ladder and secure promotions.  

In this episode, I welcome talented executive Sibil Patri, who has had a prolific career in top financial companies and is a certified Chartered Financial Analyst. Our conversation centers around Sibyl's professional journey, the challenges she faced as a woman of color, and the importance of personal branding.  Sibyl also shares her experiences of racial bias and corporate injustices she encountered while climbing the corporate ladder, which ultimately led to her decision to launch her own business, In Pursuit Collective.  Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Sibil, as she shares her experiences navigating corporate hurdles and her decision to forge her own path. Listen to this episode now!  

In this episode, I am joined by Kat Scudder, a sales executive and currently the VP of Ad Sales for Nexstar Media Group, and we dive deep into her  remarkable career path, where she worked her way up the ladder as a single mother and thrived in the fiercely competitive world of sales. We explore proven techniques to elevate your sales skills and uncover the surprising parallels between successful sales strategies and the job search process. Kat also sheds light on the essential art of self-marketing for job seekers. Kat also graciously provides her valuable recommendations for books and newsletters, offering listeners essential resources to enhance their sales abilities and accelerate their career.  

In this engaging episode, I am joined by Hannah Morgan, a career strategist and founder of CareerSherpa. We took a deep dive into strategies that extend beyond the surface, exploring how building relationships and optimizing your LinkedIn profile can be the pillars of a successful job search. But that's not all – you're in for a treat as Hannah and I engaged in some playful banter, offering differing opinions on various outreach methods and LinkedIn optimization strategies.   

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Pollack, the co-founder and CEO of Firneo, to discuss the world of business development and partnerships. They explore the evolving nomenclature of these roles and how they can differ from company to company. Scott provides insights into the core skills needed to excel in BD and partnerships, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships and networks in these fields. Tune in now to gain career insights and elevate your BD and partnership game. Don't miss this episode filled with actionable advice and subscribe to The SYCK Career Podcast for more career advice to accelerate your career!  

In this episode, I'll take you through my career journey, revealing pivotal moments where prioritizing my mental health made all the difference. From the early days of climbing the corporate ladder to the unpredictable twists and turns of career growth, I share relatable stories that illustrate the profound impact of protecting your mental health. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the practical steps you can take to protect your mental health on your own career path. Learn why it's not just a personal victory but a fundamental element for professional growth.  

In this episode, I'll take you through my recent experience at the Grace Hopper Celebration in Orlando, Florida. Beyond inspiring speakers, I engaged in meaningful networking, offering valuable advice and LinkedIn profile reviews to ambitious professionals. Discover how to make the most of such events and open doors to your career success. Ready to boost your networking skills and seize career opportunities? Tune in to the episode now!