Podcasts about career goals

Send us a textEver been asked about your career goals and completely blanked?You're in a meeting with your manager or a senior leader. The conversation is going well—until they ask: "What are your goals for next year?"Your mind goes blank. You give a vague answer like "I want to keep growing" or "I'm open to new opportunities." They nod politely. The conversation moves on.And you walk away knowing you just made yourself invisible again.Meanwhile, others who aren't working as hard as you are confidently articulating exactly where they're headed—and they keep getting promoted while you feel stuck.Sound familiar?In this episode, you'll learn:Why vague goals get vague results (and keep you overlooked for promotions)The 5 biggest mistakes women leaders make when talking about their career goalsHow to connect your goals to business impact (so you sound strategic, not selfish)The exact language to use when your manager asks about your goals for next yearA simple structure for articulating both career goals and development goals with confidenceHow to ask for what you need without sounding passive or apologeticThis episode is perfect for you if:✅ You're tired of watching less qualified people advance while you stay stuck✅ You freeze when asked about your career goals in performance reviews or one-on-ones✅ You downplay your ambition to avoid being seen as "too much✅ Year-end review conversations are coming up, and you want to be prepared✅ You want to advocate for yourself, but don't know how to do it effectivelyAbout Your Host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.Connect with Kele for more leadership insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

In this episode, I'm sharing reflections from completing my 12th marathon and how the lessons I've learned on the road mirror the journey of building a meaningful career. From stepping out of my comfort zone to learning adaptability, listening to myself, and trusting my experience through self-doubt, I've realized that running has taught me just as much about life and work as it has about endurance.Whether you're training for a marathon, navigating a career transition, or simply figuring out what's next, I hope this episode reminds you that growth takes time,  and to always embrace every version of ourselves. You already have what it takes, it's just about trusting the process, one step, one mile, and one lesson at a time.Connect with me!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizherrera1/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/lizcareercoaching/Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizcareercoaching/Email: lizcareercoaching@gmail.com40 Best Career Coach Podcasts100 Best Coaching PodcastsMusic: https://www.purple-planet.comSound from Zapsplat.comArtwork: Joseph Valenzuela DesignSupport the show

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In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia reflect on how noise, social stimulation, and personal priorities shape their daily lives. The conversation opens with lighthearted banter about barking dogs, road construction, and the toll constant noise can take on mental health. From there, they dive into deeper reflections on social energy, nightlife, and the push-pull between wanting to participate in everything versus needing rest and solitude.Nadia shares her evolving perspective on social life in Boston, adjusting to college routines, balancing work at a café, and questioning whether she's “missing out” by choosing quiet nights over parties. Alyssa contrasts this with her recent whirlwind trip to Las Vegas, where stimulation overload made her crave peace, underscoring the theme that both too much and too little activity can affect well-being.The discussion turns toward busyness, structure, and societal pressures to be constantly productive. They explore how being “always busy” can sometimes mask deeper emotions, but can also simply reflect a love of staying engaged. Nadia opens up about the looming weight of pre-med requirements, balancing passion with strategy, and navigating headspace consumed by future goals. Alyssa responds with reassurance from her own journey, reframing the process as focusing on meaningful steps rather than pure strategy.The episode closes on the reminder that rest is just as essential as productivity, and that both fun and downtime have value in a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.TakeawaysNoise and constant stimulation affect mental health more than we often acknowledge.Social energy shifts over time — it's normal to prefer quiet nights over partying, even in college.Busyness can be both a coping mechanism and a fulfilling way of life, depending on intention.Structure and routine can provide comfort, but flexibility and free time are equally important.Pursuing big goals (like medical school) requires balancing strategy with genuine passion.Rest and fun are not indulgences — they are critical for long-term well-being.Chapters0:10–3:05 – Dogs, Construction, and How Noise Shapes Mental Health3:06–6:36 – Nadia's Shift Away from Partying and Managing Café Work-Life Balance6:37–8:11 – Alyssa's Overstimulating Vegas Trip and Midlife Social Lessons8:12–9:29 – Choosing Rest Over FOMO: Leaning Into Quiet Nights9:30–14:32 – Busyness, Structure, and the Fear of Stillness14:33–18:31 – Med School Goals: Strategy vs. Passion18:32–20:43 – Balancing Co-op, Career Goals, and Future Planning20:21–21:37 – Wrapping Up: Rest, Fun, and Social Chair Irony

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Dr. Corinne Low, a renowned associate professor at the Wharton School, joins us this week on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Drawing from her latest book, "Having It All: What Data Tells Us About Women's Lives and Getting the Most Out of Yours," Dr. Low explores the unique challenges faced by working mothers today. She candidly shares her personal experiences and rigorous research findings to offer evidence-based strategies for managing time pressures and empowering working mothers.Our conversation navigates through the shifting dynamics of parenting from the 1980s to today, underlining the significance of quality time with children against the backdrop of demanding societal standards. We dive into the nuanced topic of invisible labor, predominantly shouldered by mothers, and propose effective tools like data tracking for couples to evenly distribute household responsibilities. By encouraging open dialogue around these issues, the goal of her book is to foster a more equitable division of labor that enhances family dynamics and personal well-being.The episode also emphasizes the critical role of self-care and intentionality in relationships, with a special focus on mothers striving to "have it all." Dr. Low provides practical exercises to help listeners reconnect with their values, prioritize their own needs, and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance. She challenges traditional notions of success, urging listeners to align their personal values with professional goals for a truly rewarding career and life. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion filled with strategies for personal growth and a more balanced approach to work and family life.What You'll Learn- The evolving landscape of gender economics and the pressures on working mothers.- Strategies to tackle invisible labor and foster equitable household responsibilities.- The significance of self-care and intentionality for personal and parenting relationships.- Aligning your values with your time; at work and at home.- Insights into redefining success in the modern family context.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – What is the Meaning of “Having It All?”(07:29) – High-Quality Time and the Costs of Invisible Labor(19:30) – Asking the Right Questions of Ourselves and Our Partners(23:35) – The Importance of Self-Care in Relationships(35:28) – The Science and Practice of Work-Life Balance(42:38) – Building A Values-Based Roadmap in Work and in LifeKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Gender Economics, Work-Life Balance, Working Mothers, Gender Roles, Invisible Labor, Personal Well-being, Self-Care, Flexible Work Schedules, Career Goals, Personal Growth, Parenting, Leisure Time, Structural Dynamics, Reflection Questions, Personal and Professional Growth, CEO Success

The Mission: Employable podcast is dedicated to telling the stories of all Iowans in the workforce. These stories often include sharing real world experiences of Iowans with disabilities as they overcome workforce barriers and find meaningful employment. In this episode, the Mission: Employable team sits down with the Iowa State Treasurer's Office to highlight Iowa's Achieving a Better Life Experience (IABLE) savings plan. This federal savings program allows Iowans with disabilities to save money without the risk of losing benefits. In January of 2026, nearly 130,000 Iowans will qualify for one of these plans. Learn more about this program with an open discussion from Mission: Employable host Ben Oldach and Deputy State Treasurer, Alicia Callanan

From the outside, you may look like you have it all together — the career, the accomplishments, the ability to handle everything with ease. But inside, you may feel hollow, disconnected, and like you're simply going through the motions. This isn't traditional burnout. It's something deeper. It's what I call flatlining: the hidden collapse that happens when high-achieving women push too hard for too long without tending to their own humanity. In this episode, I explore the psychological forces that drive achievement into emptiness — perfectionism, hyper-independence, and unprocessed emotions — and how to break free from their grip. You'll learn how to recognize the signs of flatlining, release the belief that your worth is tied to performance, and begin reclaiming your energy and vitality from the inside out. What we explore: The difference between burnout and flatlining — and why it matters How perfectionism keeps moving the goalpost and fuels emptiness The hidden costs of hyper-independence on your emotional wellbeing Why unprocessed feelings disconnect you from yourself How to reclaim your vitality through self-worth, boundaries, and coaching If this episode speaks to you, I invite you to take the next step with me inside my coaching programs and resources, where you'll find the tools and support to truly end the cycle of achievement and emptiness.   Connect with me: Newsletter nancylevin.comInstagramFacebook

About the Guest(s):Melissa WalkerMelissa Walker is a dedicated HR professional and consultant with a rich history of leadership roles in talent acquisition and human resources. Known for her innovative approach in helping veterans transition into the workplace, Melissa started her company, Next Career, to make a meaningful impact by focusing on training and aligning veterans with corporate opportunities. With experience leading global teams and consulting for major organizations, she excels in HR business partnering, project management, and technical integrations, especially in AI solutions. Melissa is passionate about creating people-centric workplaces and leveraging her expertise to foster organizational growth.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Who You Know," host Trevor Houston sits down with Melissa Walker to explore the dynamics of job searching, networking, and evolving career landscapes. This episode is a heartfelt homage to Melissa for believing in Trevor during the early days of his career. As Trevor and Melissa retrace the journey from the inception of Melissa's show to her current job search phase, they delve deep into the challenges and strategies of landing full-time roles in today's corporate environment, prominently highlighting the importance of networking and leveraging one's personal brand.Melissa shares candid insights into the difficulties of the modern job market, emphasizing how her extensive consulting experience, though valuable, poses unique challenges in returning to in-house roles. They discuss various job search methodologies, including leveraging AI tools across platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor, and contemplate unconventional yet potent tactics such as launching personal podcasts and content creation to potentially boost inbound job opportunities. The conversation underscores reciprocity, networking, and the critical function of human connections in successfully navigating career transitions.Resources:Melissa Walker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamwalker/Trevor Houston on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorhouston/Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.comChapters:(0:00) Introduction and Melissa's Career Goals(1:31) Recap of How the Show and Relationship Began(3:28) Melissa's Background and Career Path(8:02) Challenges in Job Searching for Melissa(10:09) Exploring Job Search Strategies and Networks(15:26) Discussing Commission Jobs and Challenges(19:35) Reverse Engineering the Job Search System(25:35) The Role of Marketing in Career Search(31:30) Concerns About AI and Its Implications(43:24) The Dynamics of Human Element in Job Search(49:20) Podcasting as a Job Search Tool(1:00:08) Content Creation and Visibility Strategy(1:09:10) Reciprocity and Networking for Job Search(1:16:04) Addressing LinkedIn and Profile Optimization(1:25:24) Closing Thoughts on Helping Others

Today, Dr. Behrouz Moemeni discusses the secondary essay question "Future Career Goals". Like the podcast? Check out our website at BeMoAcademicConsulting.com Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more great tips and other useful information!    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BeMoAcademicConsultingInc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bemoacademicconsulting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bemo_academic_consulting/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeMo_AC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bemoacademicconsulting

Post-Gazette high school sports insider Matt Press speaks to Morgan Gesinski of Mount Pleasant girls soccer, the PG's WPIAL and City League athlete of the week. He gets her reaction to a three-goal performance this past week against Hopewell, which included the 100th goal of her career. She also explains why Robert Morris was the school for her to continue here career with in the college ranks starting next season.

In this episode of The Career Flipper, host Jenny Dempsey sits down with sisters Wendy and Elizabeth Pochop of Baltimore, Maryland, co-founders of Untethered Voyages, a side hustle turned passion project that creates cruise-based retreats for leaders, communities, and organizations.We connected through Support Driven, a global community for customer support professionals, and what started as a conversation about side hustles turned into an inspiring look at building something new from burnout, curiosity, and passion for travel.What You'll Hear in This Episode:How Wendy's burnout in customer success led to a sabbatical, curiosity, and eventually a pivot toward travel and hospitality.The family cruise that sparked the idea for Untethered Voyages and how it evolved from “workations at sea” into curated community-building retreats.The unique way Wendy and Elizabeth balance their strengths, vision and execution, while building a business together as sisters, roommates, and travel buddies.Why structure, accountability, and small sacrifices are key to making side hustles work alongside full-time jobs.Practical advice for anyone feeling stuck in their career: start small, find joy outside of work, and solve a problem you've already faced for others.Their big vision: living and working full-time from cruise ships while helping groups create unforgettable experiences. Connect with Untethered VoyagesJoin their Alaska adventure next summer www.untetheredvoyages.com/alaska.BONUS: They will waive the planning fee for Career Flipper Podcast listeners, if you go on the trip, use code "Career Flipper"!Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/untetheredvoyagesvacations/Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/untethered-voyagesBook your own group retreat at sea: untetheredvoyages.com Thanks for tuning in to The Career Flipper!If this episode made you think, laugh, or feel a little braver about your own flip, do me a favor:

IowaWORKS has offices all across the state, but sometimes it's easier for workforce services to come to you; enter the IowaWORKS Mobile Workforce Center.  This one-stop shop on wheels travels across Iowa making it easy for job seekers to learn about unemployment benefits, openings, and how to navigate through Iowa's largest online job bank. Hear from Driver and Career Planner Edgar Ramirez about what the mobile center has to offer, and the stories of Iowans he's served on the road. 

In this episode of the Wade Borth Podcast, Wade sits down with Joe Fuller to discuss family banking and its transformative power on financial habits. Joe shares his journey from aspiring neurosurgeon to a financial strategist after realizing the importance of managing money within families. Learn how intentional money conversations can unite families and create wealth for generations. Joe emphasizes the concept of building a legacy and offers insights into the practicalities of setting up a family bank, showcasing his family's experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in financial independence and family unity.   Episode Highlights 05:34 - Building family banking for a lasting legacy. 11:01 - Shifting mindset towards family financial unity. 21:27 - Importance of long-term habits for financial success. 31:10 - The power of saying no to align with purpose. 38:24 - Leveraging whole life insurance for generational wealth. 46:18 - The role of interdependence in family wealth. 54:36 - How family banking redefines retirement. 01:07:40 - Teaching financial literacy across generations. 01:23:19 - Building intergenerational wealth through family banking.   Episode Resources Connect with Wade Borth https://www.sagewealthstrategy.com/  wade@sagewealthstrategy.com  

Rural hospitals are innovating to find their future workforce.  For Crawford County Memorial Hospital, that means hosting a summer camp for kids in their area who think they may be interested in a career in healthcare!  Dana Neemann, Director of Education and Patient Experience returns alongside hosts Ben Oldach and Kathy Leggett to show how the hospital created a program that has already turned young campers into full-time employees. Find out how they made navigating the complicated world of healthcare easy for kids to understand, and how you can create a similar program in your industry.   

Morgan and Abby answer listener questions! Listener shoutouts to start, then Abby answers questions about marathons, and her favorite stores to shop at. Then, have the boyfriends met? Do they still hang out with Hillary? Do they want babies one day? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Schedule a Meeting with Joshua TODAY!Are you pouring 90% of your energy into work while your relationships and personal growth starve for attention? In this episode, Joshua Gillow shares a powerful “three spheres of life” framework that reveals how most of us unintentionally spend our time — and why that imbalance can leave us empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from the people and purpose that matter most.You will:Learn a simple visual exercise to instantly see where your time and mental energy really go.Discover how shifting even a small percentage from work into relationships or self-care can transform your daily life.Hear real-world examples of how balancing your spheres leads to more joy, peace, and meaningful connections. Press play now to discover how to rebalance your work, relationships, and self so you can show up more fully for every part of your life.Connect with Joshua at:The WebsiteThe Facebook GroupSales Master ClassesHow to work with Joshua - https://yes.express/apply/Tune into this podcast where a seasoned craftsman shares expert communication skills, strategies for overcoming stress and overwhelm, and insights on building a profitable business in landscaping and hardscaping, with tips on how to sell, close more deals, and achieve financial freedom to retire early as a successful business owner in the design

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Rekindling Bonds: Navigating Life's Crossroads in Beijing Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-10-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 北京的夏日，阳光透过《异类之家》咖啡馆的大窗，洒在每一张小桌上。En: In the summer in Beijing, sunlight streamed through the large windows of the Yileizhijia café, spilling onto every small table.Zh: 曾经的大学同学梅、健和丽玲在此重聚，时隔十年，他们终于再次相见。En: Former college classmates Mei, Jian, and Liling reunited here after ten years; finally, they were seeing each other again.Zh: 咖啡馆里，键盘噼里啪啦的声音和轻声交谈交织成一曲忙碌的乐章。En: In the café, the sound of keyboards clattering and low conversations wove into a symphony of busyness.Zh: 梅拿着一杯拿铁，微笑着，可她眉间流露出一丝未解的烦恼。En: Mei held a cup of latte, smiling, but a hint of unresolved trouble lingered between her brows.Zh: 她是自由职业设计师，为了找到工作和生活的平衡而苦恼。En: She was a freelance designer, troubled by the struggle to find a balance between work and life.Zh: 健则穿着整齐，他是个科技创业公司的合伙人，正面临激烈的市场竞争，却似乎无暇多顾。En: Jian, dressed neatly, was a partner at a tech startup, facing fierce market competition and seemingly too busy to take on more.Zh: 丽玲则是穿梭世界的旅行作家，心中藏着对安稳生活的渴望。En: Liling was a travel writer journeying across the world, harboring a desire for a stable life.Zh: “好久不见，感觉大家都变了许多。”梅率先开口，她希望从朋友们身上寻求些建议。En: “Long time no see, it feels like we've all changed a lot,” Mei spoke first, hoping to seek some advice from her friends.Zh: 健皱了皱眉头，随手翻着手机上的邮件，“是啊，我这个公司现在忙得不可开交，真愁人。”En: Jian frowned while flipping through emails on his phone, “Yeah, my company is really busy right now, it's so worrisome.”Zh: 丽玲则望着窗外，“我常年旅行，也想过要找个地方定下来，不过还没想好要去哪儿。”En: Liling gazed out the window, “I travel all the time too and have thought about finding a place to settle down, but I haven't decided where yet.”Zh: 梅吸了口气，把心中的烦恼一一倾诉：“我真的很想接更多项目，但总觉得牺牲了自己的时间。我该怎么办呢？”En: Mei took a deep breath and poured out her worries one by one: “I really want to take on more projects, but I always feel like I'm sacrificing my own time. What should I do?”Zh: 健却一直在忙着看信息，没有太多回应。En: Jian was still busy checking messages and didn't respond much.Zh: 丽玲却回过头来，认真说道：“或许你可以试着定个时间表，比如每天留点时间给自己，慢慢调节。”En: Liling, however, turned back and said earnestly, “Maybe you could try setting a schedule, like leaving some time for yourself each day and adjusting gradually.”Zh: 健放下手机，似乎意识到了什么，努力调整了位置，更加专注地听着。En: Jian put down his phone, seemingly realizing something, and tried to adjust his attention, listening more intently.Zh: 三个人各自道出了自己的隐忧。En: Each of the three shared their own concerns.Zh: 健承认自己太过专注事业，忽略了生活的其他乐趣。En: Jian admitted that he was too focused on his career, neglecting other joys of life.Zh: 丽玲则坦言，旅行虽然冒险刺激，但她开始渴望稳定的归宿。En: Liling confessed that while traveling was adventurous and exciting, she was beginning to long for a stable home.Zh: 这时，咖啡馆里的气氛顿时凝重起来，每个人都感受到，原来心底都有未解的愿望。En: At this point, the atmosphere in the café turned heavy, and everyone realized that they all had unfulfilled desires deep down.Zh: 经过一番长谈，朋友们决定彼此做出改变。En: After a lengthy discussion, the friends decided to make changes.Zh: 梅找到了一些灵感，决定仔细挑选项目，只选择那些真正能激发她创作激情的工作，而给生活留点空间。En: Mei found some inspiration and decided to carefully select projects, choosing only those that truly sparked her creative passion while leaving some room for life.Zh: 健和丽玲也承诺，互相保持联系，提供支持与鼓励。En: Jian and Liling also promised to stay in touch and provide support and encouragement to each other.Zh: 随着围绕在他们之间的话题变得温暖轻松，窗外的阳光仿佛更加明亮。En: As the conversation warmed and lightened, the sunlight outside seemed to shine even brighter.Zh: 梅的内心找到了一丝久违的安宁和方向。En: Mei found a long-lost sense of peace and direction in her heart.Zh: 他们三人交换了联系方式，并约定在未来的日子里更加彼此关心。En: They exchanged contact information and agreed to care more for each other in the days to come.Zh: 在《异类之家》里，他们结束了一段既漫长又重要的对话，为各自的人生注入了新的动力，重新启程。En: In Yileizhijia, they concluded a conversation that was both long and important, injecting new motivation into each of their lives and setting off afresh. Vocabulary Words:streamed: 透过low: 轻声freelance: 自由职业struggle: 苦恼balance: 平衡fierce: 激烈gazed: 望着settle: 定下来deep breath: 吸了口气sacrificing: 牺牲earnestly: 认真neglecting: 忽略stable: 安稳asserted: 坦言admitted: 承认atmosphere: 气氛lingered: 流露unfulfilled: 未解desires: 愿望lengthy: 漫长motivation: 动力intently: 专注concerns: 隐忧creative: 创作inspiration: 灵感passion: 激情concluded: 结束worrisome: 愁人adjusting: 调节injecting: 注入

In this episode of Widow Wisdom and Wealth, meet Carolyn Dennis Johnson, a resilient entrepreneur who shares her journey from being a single parent to successfully starting her own business at 65.  Carolyn discusses how she navigated financial independence after her divorce, leaned on her community for support, and continuously pursued education and career changes. She offers valuable advice on staying open to opportunities, the importance of networking, and the potential benefits of temp work.  Discover her inspiring story and gain insights on managing career transitions and financial challenges as a sole parent. Connect with Carolyn towards the end of the episode for more personal guidance.   00:00 Introduction to Carolyn Dennis Johnson 01:21 Carolyn's Early Life and Career 02:43 Marriage and Early Challenges 05:24 Struggles and Relocations 07:39 Single Parenthood and Career Shifts 10:46 Financial Independence and New Beginnings 13:40 Pursuing Education and Career Goals 21:10 Navigating Higher Education and Career Transitions 22:57 Overcoming Job Loss and Embracing New Opportunities 24:43 Balancing Personal Life and Community Involvement 27:07 Building Self-Confidence and Reinventing Yourself 30:34 Pursuing Entrepreneurship and Finding Flexibility 35:08 Advice for Sole Parents and Career Seekers 37:12 Connecting on LinkedIn and Final Thoughts

How do rural hospitals find the staffing in today's day and age? That's the question hosts Ben Oldach and Kathy Leggett are looking to answer in part one of a two-episode series at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa.  Joining them are Dana Neemann, Director of Education and Patient Experience, and Macy Webb, Director of Human Resources to talk about their internship program, as well as the extra effort they make to retain employees once they have them hired.  

Are you afraid of your romantic relationship getting in the way of your career and vice versa? What if I told you that your relationship could be the secret weapon behind your biggest professional success, rather than the thing holding you back? Welcome to The Ripple Effect Podcast! In this episode, I sat down with the incredible Gabriela Embon. She is an inspiring speaker, relationship coach, and author of Becoming a Power Couple. We discussed one of the most overlooked dynamics in modern life: how your career and your relationship are deeply connected, whether you realize it or not. As someone who's been through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and marriage at the same time, this conversation hit me right in the heart. Gabriela has a gift for breaking down the emotional and practical challenges that ambitious couples face, especially when life feels overwhelming, communication breaks down, or resentment starts to creep in. Her coaching approach doesn't just focus on fixing problems. She helps you engineer a relationship that fuels your career and creates the kind of love you don't just survive, but thrive in. We talked about everything from managing stress at work without bringing it home to the unspoken expectations that can quietly destroy a connection. Gabriela's four-pillar framework for building a legendary marriage is packed with actionable insights that you can start using today! If you've ever felt like you're sacrificing your relationship to chase your goals, or like your partner just doesn't “get” what you're building, trust me. This episode is for you. It's honest, relatable, and packed with the kind of wisdom I wish I'd had years ago. And if you're in a relationship and trying to balance ambition, stress, and love, do not miss this one. So, what's one thing you've done to better integrate your career and your relationship? Leave a comment Ripple with Gabriela Embon Website: gabrielaembon.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gabrielaembon Ripple with Steve Harper Instagram: http://instagram.com/rippleon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rippleon X: https://twitter.com/rippleon Website: http://www.ripplecentral.com Join our ever-growing community of Ripplers in The Pond: https://ripplecentral.com/pond #becomingapowercouple #therippleeffectpodcast #worklifeintegration #entrepreneurshipandrelationships #marriagecoaching #gabrielaembon #steveharper #powercouplecoaching #relationshipadviceforentrepreneurs #careerandlove

Logan sits down with North Carolina Courage Midfielder Riley Jackson to discuss choosing the NWSL over college, playing against NWSL legends like Alex Morgan and Kelley O'Hara, balancing being a teenager and a pro athlete & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Logan sits down with North Carolina Courage Midfielder Riley Jackson to discuss choosing the NWSL over college, playing against NWSL legends like Alex Morgan and Kelley O'Hara, balancing being a teenager and a pro athlete & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Caroline, Maria and John on what you need to know to make the best impression

love you!

Think building a seven-figure consulting pipeline in just 16 weeks is impossible? Think again. In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Ellie Holbert, a first-year independent consultant, who shares the real story of how she went from zero pipeline and a canceled contract to 56 opportunities and a multi-seven-figure funnel without prior sales experience.Ellie lays out the practical steps and mindset shifts that fueled her meteoric start, including how she reframed rejection, established peer-to-peer relationships with C-suite executives, and reached decision-makers at brand-name companies through a consistent, imperfect action strategy.Melisa and Ellie break down why being willing to be uncomfortable is a key advantage in building a thriving consulting business, and how emotional regulation, not flashy branding or a perfect elevator pitch became Ellie's superpower.Timestamps for Key Moments: [12:45] How Ellie created a repeatable pipeline strategy that turned cold outreach into C-suite conversations without pitching.[21:04] The specific tactics she used to book 115 calls and identify 56 qualified opportunities in just 4 months.[25:14] Why targeting the economic buyer, not just the end user, is critical to converting interest into closed business.[35:20] How to rewire your mindset to operate like a business owner, not a job seeker even if you're new to consulting.Tune in to Episode 224 to get a playbook you can immediately apply to build or reboot your pipeline grounded in real actions, not theory.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-224/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com   Connect with Ellie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-h-1b661147/Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

G Flip is an incredible musician from Down Under, and now she's asking today's Handsome question about what the hosts wanted to be when they grew up! Plus knock knock jokes, a Mae Fact about dung beetles, and more!Handsome is hosted by Tig Notaro, Mae Martin, and Fortune FeimsterFollow us on social media @handsomepodMerch at handsomepod.comWatch Handsome on YouTubeThis is a Headgum podcast. Follow Headgum on Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok. Advertise on Handsome via Gumball.fm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's common for consultants to think of AI as a tool to boost efficiency, enhance insights, automate tasks, and improve client deliverables. It can help you scale your processes and routines.But have you also considered that AI can help you scale your thinking?In this episode, Melisa talks with Amanda Long, marketing strategist and custom GPT builder, about how consultants can create private GPTs to capture their intellectual property, streamline delivery, and scale their businesses without adding headcount. We share examples from my own business, including how we built a podcast post-production GPT that now does what used to take a full-time contractor.We also dismantle some common AI myths (you don't need to be tech-savvy or have piles of content to get started) and walk through ways to use custom GPTs to make smarter decisions, faster like a "co-CEO" that keeps your offers, goals, and voice front and center.Timestamps for Key Moments: [05:12] What a Brand Voice GPT is and how it can help solo consultants produce consistent, on-brand content even without a team[10:20] Why you don't need a big content archive to build an effective GPT that mimics your voice and style[14:58] The five key deliverables the Podcast Post-Production GPT produces to streamline weekly episode workflow[19:44] How to use a “Second Brain GPT” to vet ideas, stay aligned to your goals, and make faster decisions as a business owner[26:45] Ways to build GPTs around your repeatable processes, like proposals or client FAQs, to productize your expertise[35:00] Risks to watch for, including privacy pitfalls and hallucinations and how to avoid themTune in to Episode 223 for practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you work smarter, protect your intellectual property, and build a more scalable consulting business without losing your personal touch.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-223/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 181 - Transforming Into A Boutique Consultancy with Tradewinds Leadership, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-181/    Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com   Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Connect with Amanda: https://linkedin.com/in/amandalongsms Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Ready to rewire your brain and transform your habits? This re-released (now in video form!) episode features neuroscientist Nicole Vignola, the internet's favorite brain optimization expert, sharing evidence-based strategies for breaking bad habits, building positive routines, and leveraging neuroplasticity for lasting change.Stay tuned for the science behind neuroplasticity and an inspirational look into how your brain's ability to change means you're never stuck in a negative pattern! Nicole breaks down the habit loop, explains why behavior change feels difficult, and reveals neuroscience-backed techniques for sustainable transformation.Nicole Vignola is a leading neuroscientist, organizational psychology expert, keynote speaker, and author specializing in human optimization, longevity science, and peak performance coaching. Her research focuses on translating complex neuroscience into practical life transformation strategies.This conversation will shift how you think about personal growth and give you the tools to create lasting transformation.Join us as we cover:Neuroplasticity principles for rewiring subconscious beliefs and thought patternsHabit formation science: the anatomy of habits and making new behaviors stickBrain optimization strategies for focus, learning, and peak performanceImproving mental health through targeted brain health practicesDopamine regulation and its impact on motivation and time perceptionBehavioral pattern interruption techniques and neurohacksProductivity maximization by managing your mental energy currencyPhone addiction solutions and digital wellness strategiesPositive psychology applications for overcoming negativity biasNicole's refreshing take on failure and resilienceFollow Nicole:- Get her revolutionary first book, Rewire: Break The Cycle, Alter Your Thoughts and Create Lasting Change- Follow Nicole on Instagram- Check out her websiteFor advertising and sponsorship inquiries, please contact Frequency Podcast Network. Sign up for our monthly adulting newsletter:teachmehowtoadult.ca/newsletter Follow us on the ‘gram:@teachmehowtoadultmedia@gillian.bernerFollow on TikTok: @teachmehowtoadultSubscribe on YouTube

  This episode of the Mission: Employable podcast dives into an Earn and Learn program that's saving one Iowa organization money while reinvesting in its workforce, Goldfinch Laboratory plays an important role in Iowa's medical industry, testing samples and biopsies sent over by other healthcare providers. However, the lab felt they were spending too much money on temporary hires. The solution? Find and train their own staff with an Earn and Learn program. Stephanie Allen, Director of Laboratory Operations, and Nancy Leiva, Shift Lead, joins us to share how they made the decision to start this program from the ground up. Find out how the program is not only solving their staffing problem but saving them a ton of money in the process.  

How to turn curiosity, clarity, and AI into your most powerful job search tools.Job search isn't just about landing your next role—it's about understanding who you are and how you want to show up in the world. According to Andrew Seaman, Senior Managing Editor for Jobs and Career Development at LinkedIn, that process begins with curiosity, not certainty. “People assume they need to apply to dozens of jobs with a perfect résumé,” he explains. “But the best applications are rooted in self-awareness and strategy—not spray-and-pray.”Instead of rushing to the next opportunity, Seaman encourages job seekers to slow down, ask better questions, and prioritize conversations over checklists. From informational interviews to profile updates, clarity is key—knowing what you want and telling a story that shows why you're the right fit.With tools like LinkedIn's Job Match and natural-language job search, candidates can now assess how they align with a role—and where they can grow. “It's not just about being qualified,” Seaman says. “It's about showing the value you bring.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Seaman joins host Matt Abrahams for our Catalyze Your Career miniseries to share how to job search with intention. Using Matt's “Four I's” framework—identifying, investigating, initiating contact, and interviewing—they explore how strategic storytelling, thoughtful networking, and AI tools can help you stand out in a crowded market.Episode Reference Links:Andrew SeamanEp.184 Fit or Quit? Find the Job That is Right For You—Catalyze Your Career Ep.187 Experimenting, Failing, and Finding Your Job Fit - Catalyze Your Career  Ep.151 Get Hired: How the Right Communication Can Advance Your Career  Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:05) - What's Changing in Job Search (03:49) - Identifying Roles with Curiosity (06:49) - Investigating Companies & Roles (08:13) - Initiating Contact Effectively (11:29) - Crafting a Strong Narrative (12:41) - How Job Match Can Help (16:01) - Strategic vs. Shotgun Approach (21:00) - Best Career Advice Received (21:56) - Career Regrets & Lessons (23:25) - Conclusion   ********This episode is sponsored by LinkedIn. Dare to discover what's next. Explore your job potential at LinkedIn. Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.  

Most consultants think physical products are only for authors or e-commerce brands, not for them. In this episode, Melisa challenges that assumption head-on and takes you behind the scenes of a new physical product line she's launching.This isn't a product pitch, it's a case study. She's sharing the full backstory of  why she started this, what's working, what surprised her, and how she's thinking about integrating physical products into her consulting business long-term.If you've ever thought:“I don't have a unique enough framework.”“I'm too much of a generalist.”“Wouldn't this compete with my services?”…this episode is for you. Melisa walks through why physical products can work for consultants, what mistakes to avoid, and how to start thinking creatively about how your IP can scale without taking you out of the equation.Timestamps for Key Moments:​​[03:22] How Melisa's accidental journal project turned into a new business unit and three physical products[11:19] How creating a product sharpened her methodologies and clarified her frameworks[22:50] Ways to use physical products as reputation and demand builders in your consulting business[29:30] Examples of physical products created by other consultants and what they charge for them[36:40] Key considerations before launching a physical product including budget, time, and energyTune in to Episode 222 for behind-the-scenes insight, inspiration, and real strategy to help you expand your consulting business in a creative, scalable way.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-222/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/   Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Products Mentioned In This Episode:Pip DecksThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team: Comprehensive KitInnovation Games: Creating Breakthrough Products Through Collaborative Play: Hohmann, Luke Visual Planning Template - Grove Tools, Inc.MethodKit   Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

In today's podcast, Kathy shares with us many different frameworks to think about how to create life and work ambitions that fit your life at this moment. Ambition is something we can own that doesn't have to be directly correlated to our careers. Life ambitions matter too! Kathy inspires us to: Create a horizon map to help you get clear on what you want to focus on now versus what is further off on the horizon Have systems and structures in place to support ambitious goals Coordinate goals so there is less friction Listen to the whole episode and share your takeaways with us on Linkedin Kathy Oneto and Wade Brill or Instagram @OneWade and  @Sustainable Ambition    Sign up for the Summer of Self-Care group coaching program. Save 20% with code selflove20.    Episodes mentioned: Episode 163 Episode 105 ***** Kathy Oneto is an executive and life-work coach, speaker, and facilitator whose mission is to help ambitious organizations, teams, and individuals explore how to live and work differently for more success, satisfaction, and sustainability. She is the founder of Sustainable Ambition®, host of the Sustainable Ambition podcast, and author of the book, Sustainable Ambition: How to Prioritize What Matters to Thrive in Life and Work (June 2025).   With a portfolio career and drawing from her 25-years of experience, she is also a strategy consultant and advisor who partners with ambitious organizations and leaders who want to do better for their business, customers, and people—helping them illuminate and make progress on what matters.    Learn more about the book: https://sustainableambition.com/books Get a free State of Ambition Guide and take the quiz: https://sustainableambition.com/state Listen to the Sustainable Ambition Podcast: https://bit.ly/sustain-pod Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-oneto Follow Sustainable Ambition on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainableambition/ Kathy's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kathyoneto  

Mission: Employable is back in Le Mars to find out more about how the Le Mars Fire Department is using work-based learning to get students interested in becoming EMTs. Le Mars Battalion Chief John MacGregor joins the show and shares an emotional story about why he cares so much for teaching the next generation, including his son, who also joins the podcast.   

Client delivery is one of the most critical — and underleveraged — parts of your consulting business. In this episode, we walk through a practical, three-part framework to increase the value of your delivery, both for your clients and for your business.Most independent consultants tell me they feel confident once they land the work. But that doesn't always translate into knowing how to position your delivery as a value driver — something that generates referrals, repeat business, and higher pricing.This episode is your blueprint for transforming delivery from a transactional project into a strategic asset.You'll also get three AI prompts that you can use immediately to implement each component of the framework. Whether you're feeling stuck in the weeds or just want to sharpen your process, this episode will help you level up your delivery — without needing more tools, credentials, or client praise.Timestamps for Key Moments:[06:44] How to drive valuable client outcomes instead of defaulting into reactive execution[15:10] Why you need to codify your approach — and how even “generalist” consultants have repeatable frameworks[25:18] How your identity as a consultant directly affects your delivery value and client perception[30:33] 3 AI prompts to help you zoom out and strengthen your consulting mindset and impactTune in to Episode 220 to build a consulting business where delivery becomes your growth engine.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-220/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 193 - Being In Control of Your Consulting Business Results, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-193/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: From Office Desk to Dance Performance: Jiahao's Balancing Act Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-05-29-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在繁华的城市中心，高楼大厦耸立着。En: In the bustling city center, skyscrapers stood tall.Zh: 一个公司办公室，玻璃窗把外面的天空和城市缩影映在了房间里。En: In a company office, the glass windows reflected the outside sky and the city's silhouette into the room.Zh: 这里是家豪工作的地方，他是一个勤奋的员工。En: This is where Jiahao worked; he was a diligent employee.Zh: 每天，家豪对着他的电脑工作到深夜，他的桌上总是堆满文件。En: Every day, Jiahao worked late into the night in front of his computer, his desk always piled high with documents.Zh: 办公室里，家豪正忙着赶一个紧急项目。En: In the office, Jiahao was busy rushing an urgent project.Zh: 因为这个项目，他已经好几个晚上没回家吃晚饭了。En: Because of this project, he hadn't gone home for dinner several nights in a row.Zh: 美慧，家豪的妻子，常常在家门口等到深夜，看着手机上的时间，一分钟一分钟地过去。En: Meihui, Jiahao's wife, often waited at the door until late at night, watching the time on her phone pass by minute by minute.Zh: 这是晚春的一个晚上，家豪依旧在办公室里。En: It was a late spring evening, and Jiahao was still in the office.Zh: 他想要升职，他需要把这份项目做好。En: He wanted a promotion and needed to do this project well.Zh: 他知道，升职能给家人更好的生活。En: He knew that a promotion could offer his family a better life.Zh: 然而，最近他也发现，与家人共度的时间越来越少。En: However, he also recently realized that he was spending less and less time with his family.Zh: 美慧几次跟他提到，他们的女儿小米画了一幅特别的画想给他看，但他一直没有时间。En: Meihui had mentioned several times that their daughter Xiaomi had drawn a special picture she wanted to show him, but he never had the time.Zh: 某一天，美慧告诉家豪：“小米希望你能参加她的学校舞蹈表演。”En: One day, Meihui told Jiahao, “Xiaomi hopes you can attend her school dance performance.”Zh: 这天刚好也是家豪项目提交的截止日期。En: That day happened to be the project's deadline.Zh: “太太忙了，我尽量。”家豪回答。En: “I'm very busy, but I'll try my best,” Jiahao replied.Zh: 终于，舞蹈表演的那天到了。En: Finally, the day of the dance performance arrived.Zh: 办公室一如既往地忙碌，家豪的老板走过来说道：“家豪，今晚这个项目非常重要。”En: The office was busy as usual, and Jiahao's boss approached and said, “Jiahao, tonight this project is very important.”Zh: 家豪心里很纠结。En: Jiahao was torn.Zh: 他知道如果他留下，老板很可能会对他印象深刻，升职有望。En: He knew that if he stayed, the boss might be impressed, making a promotion likely.Zh: 但小米的期盼浮现在他的脑海中，他不想再次错过。En: But Xiaomi's anticipation lingered in his mind, and he didn't want to miss it again.Zh: 下班时间到了，家豪决定了。En: As the workday ended, Jiahao made his decision.Zh: 他突然站起来，收拾好东西，跟老板说：“对不起老板，我家里有个非常重要的约会，能不能明天再继续？”En: He suddenly stood up, packed his things, and told his boss, “I'm sorry, Boss, I have a very important appointment at home, can we continue tomorrow?”Zh: 家豪匆匆回家，赶到学校礼堂。En: Jiahao rushed home and made it to the school hall.Zh: 他一进门，看到小米在后台紧张地等着。En: As he entered the door, he saw Xiaomi nervously waiting backstage.Zh: 看到爸爸来了，小米露出了灿烂的笑容。En: When she saw her dad arrive, Xiaomi gave a radiant smile.Zh: 家豪感到一种久违的温暖，小米的每一个舞蹈动作都让他感到自豪。En: Jiahao felt a long-missed warmth, and each of Xiaomi's dance moves made him feel proud.Zh: 事后，家豪的老板给他发了一条短信：“家豪，听说你家庭生活丰富多彩。En: Afterward, Jiahao's boss sent him a message: “Jiahao, I heard your family life is vibrant.Zh: 这样的生活也会让你在工作中表现更好。En: Such a life will also make you perform better at work.Zh: 继续加油！”En: Keep it up!”Zh: 从那以后，家豪学会了平衡工作和家庭生活。En: From then on, Jiahao learned to balance work and family life.Zh: 他发现事业成功与家庭幸福并不矛盾，反而，相辅相成。En: He discovered that career success and family happiness were not contradictory; instead, they complemented each other.Zh: 家豪明白了：真正的成功，是在事业和家庭中找到平衡。En: Jiahao understood: true success is finding balance between career and family.Zh: 他常常对美慧说：“我的努力，是为了我们共同的未来。”En: He often told Meihui, “My efforts are for our shared future.”Zh: 阳光透过窗户，洒在屋里，一家人坐在一起，享受着每一个温馨的瞬间。En: Sunlight poured through the window, filling the room as the family sat together, savoring every warm moment. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 繁华skyscrapers: 高楼大厦silhouette: 缩影diligent: 勤奋urgent: 紧急promotion: 升职lingered: 浮现deadline: 截止日期torn: 纠结radiant: 灿烂vibrant: 丰富多彩complimented: 相辅相成balance: 平衡savoring: 享受reflect: 映document: 文件project: 项目anticipation: 期盼nervously: 紧张地backstage: 后台impressed: 印象深刻discovered: 发现complimentary: 相辅相成true: 真正appointment: 约会urgent: 紧急daughter: 女儿hall: 礼堂text message: 短信shared future: 共同的未来

If your thoughts bounce from “she's rude” to “they're amazing” in the same breath, you're not alone. But this pattern messes with your brand—and your ability to trust your own mind. In this episode I discuss:Why constant mental flip-flopping kills your strategic edgeThe hidden cost of narrating everyone else's behaviorHow to rewire your brain for clarity, confidence, and leadership presenceSupport the showJill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities). Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on: Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making Keynote Speaking Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration Connect with and follow Jill on LinkedIn

Sometimes you need a client win — fast.Whether it's to refill your pipeline, create a cash infusion, or just shake off a dry spell, this episode walks you through how to create and implement a quick-win strategy that actually works (and doesn't feel like a scramble).We're not talking about discounting your value or saying yes to low-quality consulting client leads. This is about designing a repeatable, strategic approach that positions you for fast client conversions — and long-term growth.You'll learn the Four-part Quick Win Formula for consultants, What consultants typically get wrong about speed-to-sale, and How to remove the mental and emotional brakes that slow down your momentum.Timestamps for Key Moments:[06:24] What a "Quick Win" really is and how to reframe your definition of what's possible in your consulting sales cycle[10:44] Quick Win Thinking: How to recognize and remove mindset patterns that silently sabotage your speed[14:30] Quick Win Emotions: Why the energy you bring to your sales activity makes or breaks your results[19:54] Quick Win Plan: Who to target, what to offer, and how to get creative without diluting your brand[24:45] Quick Win Execution: How to structure and commit to your 30-day sprint using a business-owner mindsetTune in to Episode 219 for a repeatable framework to infuse your business with revenue, confidence, and traction — exactly when you need it.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-219/Read Chapter 9 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBEpisode 210 – Managing Your Consulting Business through KPIs, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-210/ Episode 156 - The 3 Lead Generation Modes for a Consulting Business Pipeline, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-156/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Does this situation sound familiar to you?You send a consulting proposal. Or you email your one-pager, expecting a next step. Then — silence.You don't hear back.If you're questioning your follow-up strategy, not sure what to do to follow-up, this episode is for you.In this week's episode, Melisa dismantles the outdated (and ineffective) habits independent consultants fall into when it comes to follow-up. You'll hear how to approach follow-up in a way that adds value and reinforces your expertise — instead of second-guessing, worrying about being annoying, or appearing desperate.She shares how not to follow up (including a few examples you'll recognize), then walks you through a strategic follow-up framework that keeps your momentum and creates consulting client demand.Timestamps for Key Moments:[05:02] Why most follow-up feels awkward — and what actually causes you to spiral when clients go dark.[09:45] What “strategic follow-up” looks like in your consulting business (hint: it's not about “circling back”) [14:50] How to follow up with value — 4 examples you can swipe and use today. [20:35] 5 ways to set yourself up for consistent, confident follow-through (without the mindset drama).Tune in to Episode 218 for practical examples, mindset shifts, and frameworks that help you move deals forward — without the second-guessing.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-218/Read Chapter 9 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBEpisode 170 – Being Ghosted as an Independent Consultant, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-170/  Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

You solve problems. That's what you do best as a consultant.But what if you're focused on solving the wrong problem in your own consulting business?In this episode, Melisa breaks down a counterintuitive truth: many consultants plateau or underearn not because they don't have solutions, but because they're solving problems they've already outgrown.Melisa shares a real client case study that illustrates how thought errors can keep you solving yesterday's problems and sabotaging your current and future growth. You'll walk away with a new lens for assessing what really needs your attention — and how to stop spinning your wheels on challenges you've already outgrown.Timestamps for Key Moments[04:22] What it looks like to fix the wrong problem and why it's such a common trap for ICs[07:30] A real-world example of a consultant who outgrew his lead gen problem but didn't update his mindset[13:50] The identity and positioning shifts that opened up capacity and growth[18:36] How to shift from more to better — refining your focus instead of adding more to your plate[23:45] Three questions to uncover if you're solving the wrong problemTune in to Episode 217 to shift your perspective and refocus your energy on what actually moves the needle in your business.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-217/Subscribe to Melisa's newsletter: The Independent - Weekly Newsletter, https://www.melisaliberman.com/newsConsulting Business Health Assessment – Take The Consultant's Business Health Assessment, https://assessments.melisaliberman.com/consulting-health-assessmentWork with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

The days of linear career paths are over. People are switching jobs more often, making their career journeys more complex than ever. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics found that people only stay in their jobs for an average of four years. That much change and complexity can be intimidating for students and professionals to navigate. How, as an educator, do you get your students ready to enter their own careers, when it may feel like a quest without a map? Enter: Jessica Lindl.  Jessica Lindl is the author of The Career Game Loop: Learn to Earn in the New Economy and VP of Ecosystem Growth at Unity Technologies. She has over 20 years of experience running various education and impact business ventures and P&Ls. Over her career, she has focused on empowering millio ns of learners building careers and businesses with technology. In her work at Unity Technologies, Common Sense Media, GlassLab and LRNG (now part of Southern New Hampshire University), Scientific Learning, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, she has worked to improve learning outcomes and earning potential for all learners worldwide by blending effectiveness with ground-breaking engagement.  In this episode, we chat with Jessica about her new book, The Career Game Loop. We discuss helping students upskill and achieve their career goals using gaming principles. Covering everything from quests, levels, and community, Jessica shares how you can prepare your learners for the careers of their dreams.  Want to learn more about Jessica's book? Get all the details here.  Check out resources from Jessica's team at Unity here.  Connect with fellow educators in our CERTIFIED Educator Community here.    Don't miss your chance to register for our annual CERTIFIED Educator's Conference here.     

Feeling awkward about networking? You're not alone. In this episode, I'll show you how to reach out with clarity, confidence, and strategy—without feeling like you're begging for help. In this episode: Why networking isn't about the “perfect ask”—it's about being a decent human.The secret incentive no one tells you about: referral bonuses.One ask. One click. One shot (but not in the way you think).Support the showJill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities). Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on: Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making Keynote Speaking Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration Connect with and follow Jill on LinkedIn

In today's episode, you will learn a series of vocabulary words that are connected to a specific topic. This lesson will help you improve your ability to speak English fluently about a specific topic. It will also help you feel more confident in your English abilities.5 Vocabulary WordsNetworking (noun): The process of building and maintaining professional relationships to exchange information and opportunities.Example Sentences:Networking at industry conferences can help you make valuable connections and learn about job openings.She used LinkedIn to expand her professional network and connect with industry leaders.Effective networking involves not only seeking opportunities but also offering help and support to others.Competency (noun): An ability or skill required to perform a job effectively, often assessed during job interviews.Example Sentences:The employer evaluated candidates based on their competencies related to problem-solving and teamwork.Demonstrating key competencies, such as leadership and communication, can set you apart from other applicants.Competency-based interviews often involve questions designed to assess specific skills and experiences.Professional Development (noun): Activities and experiences aimed at improving and expanding one's skills and knowledge in their career field.Example Sentences:Attending workshops and training sessions is an important aspect of professional development.The company offers professional development programs to help employees advance in their careers.Investing in professional development can lead to greater career opportunities and job satisfaction.Reference (noun): A person who can vouch for your qualifications and character, often contacted by employers during the hiring process.Example Sentences:Providing strong references can strengthen your job application and increase your chances of being hired.It's important to ask permission before listing someone as a reference on your job application.The employer contacted her previous manager as a reference to verify her work experience and skills.Negotiation (noun): The process of discussing and reaching an agreement on terms, often related to salary, benefits, or job conditions.Example Sentences:Salary negotiation is a common part of the job offer process and should be approached with preparation and confidence.Effective negotiation skills can help you secure better compensation and work conditions.She successfully negotiated additional vacation days as part of her employment contract.A Paragraph using the 5 vocabulary wordsAchieving career goals often begins with effective job interviews. To succeed, individuals must showcase their competencies and align their aspirations with the company's mission. Networking plays a vital role in identifying opportunities, while professional development ensures continuous growth. Strong references can bolster credibility, and effective negotiation skills are essential for securing favorable terms. By mastering these elements, job seekers can increase their chances of landing their desired positions and building successful careers.If you want to sign up for the free daily English vocabulary newsletter, go towww.dailyenglishvocabulary.com

What if the biggest reason you're not hitting your revenue goal has nothing to do with strategy — and everything to do with tiny, invisible breakdowns in your business development process?In this episode, I walk you through the concept of “leaks” in your consulting business — those points where value, opportunity, or efficiency is lost without you even realizing it. These leaks aren't just annoying; they dilute your revenue, add unnecessary stress, and make your business harder to run than it needs to be.We'll cover eight common types of leaks that affect independent consultants — from not generating enough conversations to getting stuck in the "friend zone" — and how to use the Consultant Leak Framework to identify and fix them.I also share two real-world case studies from clients who patched their leaks and saw big changes — including one who added $650K to their pipeline.Timestamps for Key Moments[05:12] What a "leak" actually is and how even seasoned consultants have them[08:45] Eight common business development leaks that stall your revenue growth[16:33] The Consultant Leak Framework, a 6-step process to find and fix the biggest breakdowns in your BD system[20:01] Case Study #1: How one consultant shifted his mindset and process to unlock $650K in pipeline[24:45] Case Study #2: How a “friend zone” leak was solved by creating simple hook offers that convert conversations into next stepsTune in to Episode 216 to diagnose your own biggest leak — and learn how to fix it so you can build a more predictable, fulfilling consulting business.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-216/Subscribe to Melisa's newsletter: The Independent - Weekly Newsletter, https://www.melisaliberman.com/newsConsulting Business Health Check – Take it at  https://www.icassessment.com to establish your baseline and identify key areas for optimization.Related Podcast Episode: Episode 193 - Being In Control of Your Consulting Business Results, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-193/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: melisaliberman.com/ Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Send us a textPerfection looks good, but excellence gets results. This episode breaks down: A recent failure, the mindset behind it, and how to lead with ownership The hidden cost of cutting cornersWhy asking for help shows strength, not weaknessWhat excellence actually looks like in actionSupport the showJill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities). Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on: Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making Keynote Speaking Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration Connect with and follow Jill on LinkedIn

What if you could run a corporate retreat... for a company of one? That's exactly what independent consultant and brand strategist Claire Elvers did. In this episode, Claire joins Melisa to share why she carved out the time and space to take her business offline — and what she learned from zooming out.This conversation is packed with real talk about the real work of running a consulting business:Facilitating a productive, impactful retreat for your solo consulting business,Why consultants often neglect mid-funnel strategy (and the impact of doing so), How to create more leverage without hiring a team, and How to stay focused on building a business — not just delivering client work.Claire also opens up about her non-linear path into independent consulting, how she made her first project happen, and why productizing her expertise has become a game-changer for her growth and freedom.Whether you've been thinking about taking yourself “offsite,” or you're stuck in the weeds and need to see your business with fresh eyes, this episode will challenge you to think like a business owner — not just a service provider.Tune in to Episode 215 for practical insights and peer-level perspective on building an independent consulting business that reflects your goals and plays to your strengths.Timestamps for Key Moments[08:12] Why Claire created a solo business retreat — and what it revealed about her next stage of growth[15:47] The strategic questions she asked herself to get clarity and create focus[21:30] How she's productizing her expertise and making it easier for clients to say yes[29:22] Mid-funnel blind spots most consultants overlook (and how to fix them)[36:50] The most important mindset shift Claire made to start and grow her consulting business[43:03] Advice from one consultant to another on making the leap and finding your footingRelated ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-215/Retreat Checklist PDF: Download The Independent Consultant's Corporate Retreat Checklist https://www.melisaliberman.com/retreat-checklistRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 090 – Corporate Retreat for the Independent Consultant, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-90/Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at consultmelisa.comConnect with Claire: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-elvers-4a09271/Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: melisaliberman.com/ Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Send us a textIn an unpredictable world—elections, layoffs, economic swings—our brains scramble for meaning, often defaulting to worst-case scenarios. In this episode, discover how to combat uncertainty—our biggest productivity killer. We also discuss: Understand how uncertainty triggers your brain's threat responseHow uncertainty kills creativity and innovationHear how a horse taught a life-changing lesson about fear and the present moment3 Techniques to help navigate uncertaintyMentioned on the Show: The Career Refresh Episode 8: Fear and Job PerformanceSupport the showJill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities). Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on: Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making Keynote Speaking Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration Connect with and follow Jill on LinkedIn

What if the most valuable tool in your consulting business is one you already have — and didn't even realize?In this episode, Matty Bakkeren joins Melisa to share his early-stage consulting business experience as an independent consultant and the strategies he uses to create momentum in his business.From listening to this podcast in his car to building his own consulting practice — Matty gives us a grounded, behind-the-scenes look at what it's really like to start and grow a consulting business.Whether you've just exited corporate or are considering the move, this conversation is packed with perspective, encouragement, and a few sharp truths that'll help you build your consulting business on solid ground.Tune in to Episode 214 for a grounded perspective and a clear takeaway: You already have more tools than you think — now it's time to use them.Resources & Links Mentioned: Download Your Business Dashboard One-Pager, https://www.melisaliberman.com/KPIEpisode 208 - Becoming a Client Sherpa with John Healy, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-208/ Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at consultmelisa.comTimestamps for Key Moments[03:44] – From podcast listener to guest: Maddie's journey[10:12] – The surprise value of a personal brand[16:45] – Corporate skills that transfer to consulting[22:08] – Building momentum and sharing learnings[28:14] – Why consulting isn't a solo sport[33:20] – Final advice for new and aspiring consultantsWant More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: melisaliberman.com/ Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-214/Connect with Matty Bakkeren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattybnl/Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Send us a textBeth Mach, Co-founder and COO of Spacely, shares how her 25+ year career—and 70 global pitches in one year—prepared her for her TEDx talk. She discusses decision-making confidence, leadership resilience, and work-life integration while thriving in high-stakes startup environments.Key Takeaways:Why pitching beats perfect scriptingHer go-to-strategy for overwhelmThe surprising power of listeningWhy every leader needs a board of advisorsPractical strategies to strengthen decision-making confidence Show Guest: Beth Mach brings over 25 years of experience driving growth through marketing, media, and technology solutions for Fortune 500 brands. She is currently the Co-founder and COO of Spacely and an advisor and moderator for The Room. Beth actively contributes to several start-ups such as Compliant, Brandstory Architech, and Influential and is also an accomplished public speaker, mentor, investor, and active volunteer. Beth holds a B.A. from Walsh College and is pursuing a CME through Harvard Business School. Find more about Beth Mach at:LinkedInYouTubeTEDxDetroitSupport the showJill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities). Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on: Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making Keynote Speaking Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration Connect with and follow Jill on LinkedIn