PODCAST · business
Career Contessa
by Career Contessa
Shortcut your path to being more successful at work. This show helps you figure out what you truly want, land a job, make more money, advance your career, and improve your work life with actionable insights from experts that boost work performance.We're covering job searches, job interviews, resumes, LinkedIn, how to get paid and get a salary raise, career growth tips, leadership and management advice, workplace interpersonal skills, wellness strategies, work-life balance, confidence, career transitions, workplace toxicity, and more!Listen wherever you get your podcasts, follow @careercontessa on Instagram for daily career tips, and subscribe to our newsletter at www.careercontessa.com/newsletter
Episodes
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Why Discipline Doesn't Work for Most People
Think you need more discipline to reach your goals? Jia Jiang, bestselling author of Rejection Proof and Easy Discipline, explains why relying on willpower and working harder often backfires—and what to do instead. You’ll learn: Why traditional discipline doesn’t work for most people How…
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How to Protect Your Career from a Bad Manager
A bad manager can undermine your confidence, hurt your performance, and even derail your career. But what if quitting isn’t an option? Career coach and author Cathy Alfandre shares how to recognize a damaging manager, protect yourself while you stay, and create a strategic exit plan. Plus, learn...
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How High-Achieving Women Heal Their "Success Wound"
Why do so many successful women still feel like they're falling behind—even after achieving the career milestones they once dreamed of? Executive coach and former Google leader Brooke Taylor explains the hidden "Success Wound" that keeps high achievers chasing the next accomplishment without ever...
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What Recruiters Know That Job Seekers Don't
Landing a job in today's market takes more than submitting applications and hoping for the best. Recruiter, career coach, and content creator Emily Durham ("Emily the Recruiter") shares what hiring managers are actually looking for in 2026, the biggest mistakes candidates make, and the practical...
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The "Fall Crunch": Why High Achievers Feel So Stuck This Time of Year
Feeling the pressure to make a big career move before the year ends? You're not alone. In this episode, licensed clinical psychologist Anne Josephson explains why ambitious professionals often mistake burnout for clarity during the "Fall Crunch"—and shares practical, evidence-based strategies to...
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Your Thoughtload Is Sabotaging Your Focus: 3 Ways to Reset
Feel busy all day but still behind? It’s not your time—it’s your mental overload. In this episode, Lauren talks with Liane Davey, author of Thoughtload, about how to reduce overwhelm and work more effectively. You’ll learn: Why being busy doesn’t equal being productive How to protect your focus…
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The Career Reset No One Talks About After 40
Your 40s are supposed to feel like you’ve “made it.” So why does it often feel like a reset? In this episode, Lauren talks with Stacey Lindsay, author of Being 40, about why midlife can spark a major career shift—and how to navigate it with clarity and confidence. You’ll learn: Why your 40s can...
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Why “Just Learn AI” Is Bad Advice (And What to Do Instead)
AI is everywhere right now—and so is the pressure to “figure it out.” If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or behind, you’re not alone. In this episode, Lauren sits down with Jill Ozovek to unpack what’s really driving AI anxiety—especially for knowledge workers—and why it’s less about technology…
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How to Build a Meaningful Career Without Following Your Passion
Is "follow your passion" actually bad career advice? Lauren sits down with bestselling author Tom Rath to discuss why passion isn't the key to fulfillment—and how contribution, strengths, and impact can lead to more meaningful work. You'll learn: Why "follow your passion" is often misleading—and...
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The New Career Skill No One Talks About: Agility (AQ)
Uncertainty at work is everywhere—from AI shifts to layoffs to constant change. But how you respond to it can shape your career. In this episode, Lauren sits down with executive coach Liz Tran to explore AQ (Agility Quotient)—the skill of navigating change with confidence. You’ll learn how to...
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What a Good LinkedIn Profile Looks Like in 2026
LinkedIn isn’t just an online résumé anymore—it’s your personal brand, positioning tool, and one of the most powerful ways to attract opportunities in 2026. In this episode, Lauren sits down with career strategist Michelle Perchuk to break down what recruiters actually look for, the biggest…
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Not Sure How to Use ChatGPT for Your Resume? A Smarter Way to Write and Tailor Your Application (Listener Favorite)
AI can make resume writing faster—but only if you know how to use it strategically. In this listener-favorite episode, learn how to use ChatGPT to write, tailor, and improve your resume so it actually stands out (not sound generic). In this episode, you’ll learn: How to use ChatGPT to write...
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Why Some People Build Wealth (and Others Don’t): 5 Habits of Financially Successful People (Listener Favorite)
Why do some people build wealth and financial stability—while others feel stuck or constantly starting over? It’s not just about income—it’s about habits, mindset, and behavior. In this listener-favorite episode, financial expert Jean Chatzky shares what financially successful people do...
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Why Traditional Productivity Advice Isn’t Working—And How to Work With Your Brain Instead (Listener Favorite)
What if the problem isn’t your productivity—but the way you’ve been taught to work? Most of us are still operating with outdated, industrial-era habits… even though today’s work requires focus, creativity, and deep thinking. In this listener-favorite episode, neuroscientist Dr. Mithu Storoni,...
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What’s Your Reputation at Work? How to Build a Personal Brand That Gets You Noticed (Listener Favorite)
Your reputation isn’t just what you do—it’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. And whether you’re intentional about it or not, you already have a personal brand at work. In this listener-favorite episode, branding expert Dorie Clark breaks down how to understand, shape, and...
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Non-Obvious Tips for Standing Out in Today's Job Market
The job market has changed—and standing out requires more than a polished resume. In this episode, Lauren sits down with career expert Sam DeMase from ZipRecruiter to break down what actually helps candidates get noticed right now—from clarifying your value proposition to optimizing the most...
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The Truth About Executive Presence (and How to Build It Without Faking It)
Executive presence is one of the most talked-about—and least understood—skills in your career. In this episode, Lauren sits down with executive coach and co-author of The Presence Principle, Dr. Alexa Chilcutt, to break down what executive presence actually is, why it matters for promotions, and...
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Your Next Job Is Probably in Your Network—Here’s How to Strengthen It
Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward, transactional, or exhausting. In this episode, Lauren sits down with communications leader and author Monique Kelley to break down the do’s and don’ts of relationship-based networking—and how building genuine connections can unlock new opportunities,...
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Is Your Debt Driving Your Career Decisions? How to Change That
Debt can quietly shape your confidence, boundaries, and career choices. In this episode, Lauren talks with Arden Missal, founder of She’s Financially Free, about how financial pressure keeps many women playing small at work—and how to start making career decisions from confidence instead of fear....
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Career Transition 101: Strategy, Mindset, and What to Do First
Thinking about a career change—but not sure where to start? In this episode, career transition expert Cara Bedick breaks down what it really takes to make a successful move—from navigating fear and identity shifts to translating your skills and building a strategy that actually works. If you’ve...
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Why Aren’t People Responding to Your Emails? How to Write Messages Busy People Actually Read (Listener Favorite)
Even with social media, text, and DMs, email is still the best way to communicate and contact people who can help your career. Now we just need to make sure those emails are crafted in a way to catch the attention of busy readers! Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, Jason Feifer, will tell...
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Should You Become a Manager? How to Know If Leadership Is Right for You (Listener Favorite)
The truth is, that not everyone will enjoy managing people. But luckily, you don't have to become a manager to grow in your career. Leadership expert and author of Happy@Work Robyn L Garrett is here to share: How to know if management is right for you Ways to advance your career that aren’t...
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Is This Job the Wrong Fit? How to Know When a Role Is Right for You (Listener Favorite)
How do we make work, less work? Author and organizational psychologist Andrè Martin shares how to find your right-fit career. You’ll learn: What’s the difference between right fit vs. wrong fit careers How to craft your “right fit” career The questions to ask to determine if a company and role…
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The Self-Promotion Problem: How to Advocate for Yourself Without Feeling Icky (Listener Favorite)
Nobody cares more about your career than you, so you need to make yourself and your achievements known. Embrace the skill of self-promotion. Career coach Lindsey Lathrop- Ryan is here to offer: Insight into why self-promotion is so uncomfortable The 4-step strategy that makes self-promotion more...
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When Work Becomes Your Whole Identity (and How to Take It Back)
Ever feel like work doesn’t end when you close your laptop? Psychologist and TED speaker Guy Winch joins Lauren to explain why work stress is so hard to switch off—and how to reclaim your mental space without hurting your career, drawing from his book Mind Over Grind. You’ll learn: Why high...
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3 Toughest Leadership Problems— Solved
Leadership isn’t just about big wins—it’s about navigating pressure, tough decisions, and influence when things get messy. In this episode, leadership expert Dr. Katie Best shares a practical framework to help you lead with clarity—even when it feels hardest. You’ll learn: How to avoid reactive...
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Why Are We Racing? How to Navigate The Modern Rat Race
Why are we racing—and who decided the pace? In this episode, Lauren sits down with UCLA Anderson career coaches Jenna Migliaccio and Jessica Christopher, co-founders of Glimmers, to unpack the modern rat race and how to build a career rooted in clarity, not comparison. If you’ve felt busy but...
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How to Design & Run Effective Meetings
Are your meetings driving results—or just draining your calendar? This week, Lauren sits down with organizational scientist and Your Best Meeting Ever author Dr. Rebecca Hinds to rethink how meetings are designed, measured, and led. Learn how to eliminate meeting debt, reclaim your time, and turn...
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Soft Incompetence: The Subtle Drain on Your Time & Energy
Ever feel like the default project manager at home or work? In this episode, Lauren sits down with Dr. Regina Lark to unpack soft incompetence—a subtle dynamic that quietly shifts emotional labor onto one person, often with good intentions. Learn how to spot it, talk about it, and rebalance...
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5 Communication Shifts That Transform How You Lead, Speak, and Sell
Communication isn’t just a soft skill—it’s the foundation of influence, trust, and leadership at work. In this episode, Ravi Rajani, author of Relationship Currency, breaks down the five habits that make communicators truly influential. From reframing the stories you tell yourself to building…
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The New Career Path: Flexible Work, Blended Teams, and What’s Next
The way we work is changing—and it’s not going back. In this episode, we sit down with Brea Starmer, founder and CEO of Lions & Tigers, to break down the rise of blended teams, where full-time employees work alongside independent experts. They explore why women are leaving rigid career…
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The Leadership Skill Most Likely to Derail Your Career, According to a Harvard Professor
Great leadership starts with managing yourself. Harvard professor Margaret C. Andrews shares why lack of self-awareness derails careers, how emotional intelligence shapes leadership at every stage, and which human skills matter most as AI reshapes work. A must-listen for anyone ready to lead with...
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How to Stop Worrying About Money
Money stress isn’t a personal failure—it’s a systems problem. In this episode, Lauren welcomes back Jesse Mecham, founder of You Need A Budget (YNAB), to unpack why so many high-achieving women still feel anxious about money—even when they’re earning more than ever. Jesse explains why the goal...
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Laid Off? 3 Things to Do Immediately
Getting laid off can feel overwhelming—but knowing what to do next can make all the difference. Greg Lawson from California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) breaks down exactly what to do in the moments, days, and weeks after a layoff. From filing for unemployment the right way to...
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3 in 30: Marnie’s Entrepreneur Journey
In this episode, Lauren turns the mic on co-host Marnie Lemonik to unpack her journey from corporate professional to Career Coach. Marnie shares the behind-the-scenes story of how she “shot her shot” with Career Contessa years before officially joining the team, what pushed her to start coaching...
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Mid-Career and Losing Steam? Let’s Fix That
Feeling stuck in your career? You’re not alone. In this episode, Lauren talks with McKinsey senior partner and A CEO for All Seasons coauthor Carolyn Dewar about what to do when your early wins fade and your career momentum stalls. Drawing on insights from 83 top CEOs, Carolyn shares how to reset...
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Why Smart Teams Still Fail
What makes some teams thrive while others struggle? Leadership expert Dr. Vanessa Druskat joins Lauren to share why team success depends on emotional intelligence—not just talent. You’ll learn: Why emotionally intelligent teams outperform others How to build trust and psychological safety Simple...
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How to Manage in The AI Era
AI is transforming the way work gets done—but great leadership still comes down to people. In this episode of The Career Contessa Podcast, Lauren McGoodwin welcomes back Julie Zhuo, author of The Making of a Manager and co-founder of Sundial, to discuss how managers can lead effectively in the AI...
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Why We Click: How to Build Better Bonds at Work and in Life
Why do we instantly “click” with some coworkers and struggle with others? Journalist and bestselling author Kate Murphy discusses the emerging science of interpersonal synchrony—how our brains, bodies, and behavior subconsciously sync with the people around us. You’ll learn: • What interpersonal...
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The Career Development Playbook: What To Do Each Quarter to Advance Your Career Year-Round
If you’ve ever started the year with big career goals—only to lose steam by spring—this episode is for you. Career coach Michelle Schafer shares her quarterly career playbook: a simple, structured approach to keep your professional growth on track all year long. Learn how to break your goals into...
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How to Run a New Year Career Audit
Before you set another career goal, hit pause — it’s time for a career audit. Career coach and product marketing pro Saniya Waghray Tyagi shares how to reflect on the past year, clarify what’s working (and what’s not), and set intentional goals that align your energy, environment, and ambitions…
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3 in 30: 2026 Workplace Predictions
In this episode, Lauren and Marnie break down three major workplace predictions for 2026, drawing from leading reports by Indeed, Forbes, and McKinsey. After a quick lookback on 2025, Lauren and Marnie dive deep into what’s ahead for the new year as it relates to job searching and larger…
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5 Steps to Stop Overthinking and Break the Cycle of Inaction in Your Career
We’re replaying one of our most popular episodes with courage coach and bestselling author Dr. Margie Warrell. If fear or self-doubt has ever held you back from making a career move or life change, this episode will help you take that next step with confidence. You’ll learn: Why fear and...
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3 in 30: Ask Marnie Anything
In this solo 3 in 30 episode, career coach Marnie Lemonik answers listener questions across leadership, job searching, and workplace growth. From stepping into people management for the first time to navigating stagnation, hypothetical interview questions, and asking for more feedback, Marnie...
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Think Fast, Talk Smart: How to Communicate Confidently on the Spot
This holiday season, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes featuring communication expert Matt Abrahams. Learn how to stay calm, concise, and confident in spontaneous conversations — from job interviews to everyday workplace interactions. You’ll learn: How to manage anxiety in...
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Growth Mindset at Work: Overcome Fixed Thinking and Unlock Career Success
We’re replaying one of our most-loved episodes to close out the year. Career coach Kristin Evanson joins me to share how neuroscience can help you shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset — so you can approach challenges with confidence and creativity. You’ll learn: The difference between...
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3 in 30: How to Prep for PTO and Actually Enjoy Your Vacation
In this episode, Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik are in full holiday prep mode—tackling the stress that often comes with taking paid time off. From the anxiety of unplugging to the chaos of catching up, they share practical strategies to make your vacations more restorative and less...
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3 Mental Strategies for Overcoming Fear (That Actually Work)
Fear shows up in every career — whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, going for a stretch role, or asking for a raise. But courage isn’t about eliminating fear; it’s about acting with it. In this episode, Harvard Business School professor and author Ranjay Gulati shares the science of everyday...
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Personal Branding for Introverts
Think personal branding is only for extroverts? Think again. In this episode, Lauren sits down with Goldie Chan—personal branding strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Personal Branding for Introverts—to unpack how introverts can grow their authentic presence without burning out. You’ll…
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How to Fight Brain Rot: Why Adults Need Play to Thrive at Work
Play isn’t just for kids—it’s a powerful tool for creativity and resilience at work. In this episode, play designer Cas Holman shares how curiosity and playfulness can help teams thrive. You’ll learn: Why adults need play to spark innovation How leaders can model play without it feeling forced…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Shortcut your path to being more successful at work. This show helps you figure out what you truly want, land a job, make more money, advance your career, and improve your work life with actionable insights from experts that boost work performance.We're covering job searches, job interviews, resumes, LinkedIn, how to get paid and get a salary raise, career growth tips, leadership and management advice, workplace interpersonal skills, wellness strategies, work-life balance, confidence, career transitions, workplace toxicity, and more!Listen wherever you get your podcasts, follow @careercontessa on Instagram for daily career tips, and subscribe to our newsletter at www.careercontessa.com/newsletter
HOSTED BY
Career Contessa
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Career Contessa have?
Career Contessa currently has 412 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Career Contessa about?
Shortcut your path to being more successful at work. This show helps you figure out what you truly want, land a job, make more money, advance your career, and improve your work life with actionable insights from experts that boost work performance.We're covering job searches, job interviews,...
How often does Career Contessa release new episodes?
Career Contessa publishes regularly with 412 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Career Contessa?
You can listen to Career Contessa on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Career Contessa?
Career Contessa is created and hosted by Career Contessa.
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