Career Corner

Think working in education means becoming a teacher? Think again.In this episode of Career Corner, we sit down with Autumn Catherine (Recruitment Assistant) and Matthew Watson (Executive Director of Development) from iLEAD California to break down the many career paths available in education, and how you can get started.From marketing and HR to outreach, operations, and leadership, this episode reveals how schools are powered by entire teams working behind the scenes to support students and communities.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why education careers go far beyond the classroomHow to break into roles like recruitment, HR, marketing, and developmentThe skills employers actually look for: communication, empathy, and leadershipHow to stand out at career fairs and networking eventsWhy volunteering and real-world experience matter more than you thinkHow to turn your college experience into career-ready skillsWhat recruiters are really looking for when hiringYou’ll also hear real stories, from navigating college as a student-athlete to building a career in leadership and development, and learn how passion, persistence, and putting yourself out there can open doors you didn’t even know existed.If you’re interested in education, nonprofit work, leadership, or making a real impact in your community, this episode will show you how to find your place, and start building your career today.Listen now and discover how you can make a difference beyond the classroom.

Want to work in the music industry but have no idea where to start?In this episode of Career Corner, we sit down with MJ, Regional Director of Urban Audience at Republic Collective (Def Jam, Republic Records, Island Records), to break down how he went from college internships to working with some of the biggest artists in the world. From walking into a radio station asking for an internship… to working in the mailroom… to building relationships that led to Def Jam, MJ’s journey proves there’s no single path into the industry, but there is a way in if you’re willing to take it.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:How to break into the music industry with no connectionsWhy starting small can lead to major opportunitiesThe real way networking works (and why most people do it wrong)How to stand out in internships and get rememberedWhy “being memorable” is your biggest advantageWhat roles exist in music: promotion, marketing, radio, live events, and moreHow to pitch yourself creatively (and why resumes aren’t enough)The key mindset: under-promise, over-deliverMJ also breaks down what he actually does day-to-day—working with radio stations, setting up interviews, building campaigns, and connecting artists with fans across the country. If you’re passionate about music, entertainment, or working at a record label, this episode gives you a real, behind-the-scenes blueprint for getting your foot in the door and turning it into a career.Listen now and start building your path into the music industry.

Thinking about a career in HR, recruiting, or talent acquisition? Curious what it’s really like to hire for a college or public institution?In this episode of Career Corner, host Maddie sits down with Courtney Cordova, Talent Acquisition Manager at College of the Canyons and former U.S. Navy recruiter. Courtney shares her powerful journey, from dropping out of college at 20, to serving 12.5 years in the Navy, to becoming the only Talent Acquisition Manager in the California Community College system.This conversation is packed with real advice for students navigating career uncertainty, job searching, and networking.In this episode, you’ll learn:What talent acquisition actually is (and how it differs from traditional HR)How to break into recruiting, HR, or higher education careersWhy most people get jobs through networking—not just applyingHow to confidently message professionals on LinkedInWhat recruiters really look for in interviewsHow to negotiate your first job offer (yes, you can!)Why persistence matters “99 no’s and 1 yes” might be your breakthroughHow integrity, follow-through, and curiosity can set you apartCourtney also shares how serving in the Navy shaped her leadership, resilience, and recruiting mindset and why experiences outside your comfort zone often lead to the most unexpected opportunities.If you’re interested in HR, recruiting, public service, or working in higher education, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how hiring really works and how to position yourself to stand out.🎧 Listen now and take the next step toward a career that fits you.

If you’ve ever dreamed of working in entertainment, radio, music marketing, or media, this episode is your backstage pass into how the industry really works.In this Industry Professional Series episode, host Maddie sits down with Hilary Gordon, Director of Marketing, Promotion & Engagement at 88.5 The SoCal Sound, voted America’s Best Public Music Radio Station two years in a row. With over 25 years in radio and experience at companies like Warner Music Group and Cumulus Media, Hilary has built a career connecting artists and audiences through creativity, strategy, and sound.Hilary shares her journey from being a music-obsessed kid calling radio stations, to becoming an on-air talent, programmer, and ultimately a marketing leader shaping the future of public radio. You’ll hear how she navigated unpaid internships, learned every job inside the station, and built a career rooted in passion and community.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to get your first job or internship in entertainment, radio, or music marketingWhy being reliable, proactive, and passionate matters more than any formal experienceHow radio survived the rise of streaming — and what that means for your career in media todayWhat roles exist in radio & entertainment: programming, on-air, marketing, promotions, production, sales & moreHow to make yourself invaluable at any station or media companyThe power of community, storytelling, and adaptability in a fast-changing industryHow digital media, social platforms, and even AI are reshaping entertainment careersHilary also shares her full-circle moments — including interviewing her musical heroes — and offers concrete advice for students ready to dive into the world of music, media, or broadcasting.If you're passionate about music, storytelling, radio, or marketing, this episode shows you exactly how to turn that passion into a career.Listen now and take your first step into the entertainment & media industry.

Want to break into marketing, advertising, or new business development, but don’t know where to start? This episode gives you the roadmap.In our first Industry Professional Series spotlight, host Maddie sits down with Reonna Johnson, Marketing & Business Development Director, agency leader, community-builder, and co-founder of multiple initiatives reshaping the creative world.Reonna shares her real, unfiltered journey from not even knowing what marketing was in college to leading major growth initiatives across top advertising agencies. She breaks down the exact skills, mindset, and strategies students need to enter the industry confidently.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to get your first job in marketing or advertising (even if you feel behind) The 70/30 rule that fast-tracked Rhianna’s career into leadership roles What agencies REALLY look for in entry-level candidatesHow to figure out which agency department fits YOU. Creative, strategy, account, production, or business development Why your “no job too big, no job too small” attitude matters more than you thinkHow to build community, confidence, and impact at the start of your careerReonna also shares inspiring stories about launching community-centered fitness spaces, building networks for Black creative professionals, and using your career to create real impact.If you’re dreaming about a future in marketing, advertising, or creative industries, this episode is your blueprint to getting started—and getting hired.Listen now and start building your future in marketing & advertising.

In this episode, host Maddie sits down with Cristina Bernstein, Career & Professional Development Associate at CSUN, to spotlight one of the most powerful resources available to Matadors: Ask a Matador.Learn how this platform connects CSUN students and alumni for career advice, mentorship, and networking—no cold emails or awkward introductions required. Christina breaks down how to use Ask a Matador, shares real success stories, and explains how Black Matadors Connect provides representation and mentorship opportunities for Black-identifying students and alumni.You’ll discover:• How to connect directly with CSUN alumni in your dream field• What kinds of questions to ask to get meaningful responses• How networking can open doors to internships, jobs, and mentorship• Why representation and community matter in your career journeyWhether you’re a new student, a transfer, or just ready to take your next career step, this episode will show you how to leverage the Matador network to build your future. Listen now and start making connections that matter.

In this episode of Career Corner, host Maddie sits down with Professor Randi Picarelli to explore one of the most important topics for college students and young professionals: networking and internships.From building authentic connections to creating opportunities through internships, Prof. Picarelli shares her career journey, teaching philosophy, and practical strategies to help students take charge of their professional growth.You’ll learn:Why networking is more than just “who you know”How to confidently reach out to professionals—even when it feels intimidatingThe role of internships in building real-world skills and career pathwaysKey questions every student should ask in an internship or job interviewWhether you’re just starting your college journey, preparing to graduate, or feeling stuck in your career path, this conversation is packed with advice to help you build confidence, expand your network, and take your next step forward.Tune in now and start building the future you want!