2Talented Podcast

You got the offer.Now what?Most candidates think the hard part is over—but the offer stage is where some of the biggest career mistakes actually happen.In this episode of 2Talented, Graham and Corinne break down how to evaluate, negotiate, and make the right decision when an offer hits your inbox.Because this isn’t just about saying yes or no.It’s about:How this role stacks up against your current jobWhether you should wait on other opportunities or move forwardHow to negotiate without putting the offer at riskAnd why your base salary matters more than you think for your long-term earning potentialWe also cover:Verbal vs. written offers (and why that matters)How to negotiate when a recruiter is involved vs. going directly to a hiring managerWhat to do if your current company gives you a counterofferThe most common mistakes candidates make at this stageAnd as always, we kick things off with a quick update on recent wins at Strides Staffing and how training is going for our upcoming races.If you’re in the interview process—or think you will be soon—this is the episode that can directly impact your career and your compensation.Because getting the offer isn’t the finish line.It’s where the real decisions start.2Talented is a podcast for job seeking in the AI age—breaking down what’s actually happening in the hiring market and how to stay competitive.

Everyone is talking about AI.Very few people actually know how to use it.And that’s creating a massive opportunity.In this episode of 2Talented, Graham and Corinne break down the new skill that companies are quietly starting to value—not building AI, but actually applying it inside the business.Because here’s what we’re seeing in real time:Companies are being told they need AI.Leadership is being asked to implement it.But most teams don’t know where to start.So who fills that gap?The candidate who can walk into an organization and say:“Here’s how we can actually use this.”We cover:Why AI knowledge alone isn’t enough anymoreHow tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Microsoft Copilot are being used across marketing, software development, and financeA real story from a CTO who is being pulled into teaching AI across his entire companyWhy companies will start hiring people specifically to bridge this gapHow candidates can use this to stand out immediately in interviewsAnd most importantly—we break down exactly how you can start using AI this week and turn it into a real advantage in your job search.Because the new skill isn’t AI.It’s knowing how to use it to make a business better.2Talented is a podcast for job seeking in the AI age—where we break down what’s actually happening in the hiring market and how to stay competitive.

In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we break down what’s really going on in today’s job market—starting with the February jobs report and the surprising revisions that suggest things may not be as strong as the headlines indicate.While unemployment remains relatively low, hiring has slowed significantly. We dig into why job seekers are feeling the disconnect and what the data actually tells us about where the market is heading.We also tackle a growing trend: companies announcing layoffs and attributing them to AI. With firms like Block and others suggesting that artificial intelligence is replacing jobs, we ask the question—is that really true, or is there more going on beneath the surface?We explore:What the February jobs report really tells usWhy revisions matter more than headlinesThe concept of a “low hire, low fire” job marketWhether AI is actually replacing jobs—or being used as a narrativeHow this trend could be slowing hiring across the marketIf you’re a job seeker, hiring manager, or just trying to make sense of the current market, this episode will give you a clearer, more honest perspective on what’s happening right now.Strides Staffing Update:We also share what we’re seeing on the ground in Colorado—from hiring trends to where companies are still investing in talent.

What happens when a lawyer pivots into Talent Acquisition and ends up leading it for a fast-growing ERP and CRM company serving government contractors and construction firms?In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we sit down with Nick Larche, VP of Talent at Unanet, to talk about career reinvention, scaling talent inside a specialized software company, and how AI is reshaping recruiting in real time.Nick shares his unconventional path from law into recruiting, how Unanet has grown, and why talent acquisition has become a strategic function at the executive level. We dive into the evolving role of AI in hiring — what’s working, what’s overhyped, and where the human element still wins every time.We also cover:How AI tools are helping recruiters manage massive applicant flowWhy maintaining relationships with candidates (even the “no’s”) matters more than everHow candidates are already experiencing AI in interviewsSmart ways recruiters and job seekers can leverage AI to improve outcomesThe importance of continuous learning (including a few book recommendations)If you’re a hiring manager, recruiter, government contractor, construction leader, or job seeker trying to understand where hiring is headed in the AI age — this one’s for you.At 2Talented, we believe great hiring isn’t about transactions. It’s about relationships, adaptability, and staying sharp in a changing market.Let’s get into it.

Talent acquisition teams and recruiting agencies can be one of your biggest advantages in hiring—or one of your biggest frustrations.In this episode of The 2Talented Podcast, we focus on best practices for managers who need to hire and want to get better results from their talent acquisition and recruiting partners. Whether you work with an internal TA team, an external agency, or both, how you show up in the process directly impacts candidate quality, speed, and experience.We cover:Why recruiters should be treated as true partners, not transactional vendorsHow poor communication and delayed feedback slow hiring and frustrate candidatesWhat clear directives really look like—and why partial information leads to mismatchesWhy spending 30 minutes upfront can save days or weeks of wasted timeHow to prioritize recruiting alongside your day jobWhat effective, actionable candidate feedback sounds likeHow breakdowns in the process can make your organization look disorganized to candidatesWe also share a quick running update and what we’re seeing at Strides Staffing & Consulting as we partner with hiring managers navigating a challenging and competitive talent market.If you’re a manager who wants faster hires, stronger candidates, and a better candidate experience, this episode will help you build better recruiting partnerships—and get more out of the people supporting your hiring efforts.Tune in and start hiring smarter by working better with your recruiting partners.

Posting a job description isn’t enough anymore.In today’s hiring market, many of the best candidates aren’t actively applying—they’re already employed, well-networked, and paying close attention to who is hiring, not just what is posted.In this episode of The 2Talented Podcast, we continue our series for hiring managers and talent leaders by breaking down practical ways to attract talent beyond the job description.We discuss:Why hiring managers should post open roles on their personal LinkedIn profilesHow leveraging your network creates trust, reach, and better conversationsTalking about open roles at networking events, conferences, and peer conversationsReconnecting with past candidates who impressed you—and tapping into their networksHow to clearly articulate what makes a role unique and compellingHow reputation and compensation perception influence candidate interestWe also share a quick running update and what we’re seeing at Strides Staffing & Consulting as we work with hiring managers navigating a competitive and evolving talent market.If you’re responsible for hiring and relying solely on job postings, this episode will help you think differently—and more effectively—about how great talent actually finds great roles.🎧 Tune in and start attracting talent instead of waiting for it.

Interviewing isn’t about finding someone you “like.” It’s about clarity, consistency, and making decisions that hold up over time.In this episode, we start with our usual running and Strides Staffing & Consulting updates, then dive into a step-by-step framework for interviewing candidates effectively—especially in a competitive and fast-moving market.We cover:How to define the role you’re hiring for (not just the job title or the person you hope shows up)Why you should never wing interviews—and how to build a consistent set of questionsThe four critical areas every interview should assess: skill set, role fit, team fit, and company cultureWhy face-to-face or video interviews matter more than everHow to objectively assess candidate answers and avoid common hiring biasesWhen to move fast in the offer stage—and how moving too slowly can cost you great talentJust like training for an ultramarathon, strong interviewing requires preparation, pacing, and knowing when to push and when to stay disciplined.Whether you’re a founder, hiring manager, or part of a growing leadership team, this episode will help you interview with more confidence—and make better hires.Listen now and subscribe to The 2Talented Podcast for practical insights on hiring, careers, and the modern job market.

In this episode of The 2Talented Podcast, we kick off a new series designed specifically for hiring managers and talent acquisition leaders. We break down how to write a job description that attracts the right candidates, filters out the wrong ones, and sets your team up for success long before the first interview.We cover:How to structure a job description that’s clear, realistic, and compellingWhat skills you actually need vs what’s nice to haveThe pros and cons of including compensation rangesHow to talk about company culture without buzzwordsLegal considerations every hiring manager should keep in mindHow to use AI to strengthen a job description without losing the human elementPersonality traits that tend to succeed in certain rolesWe also share a quick running update and what we’re seeing right now at Strides Staffing & Consulting as we work with Colorado-based companies navigating a challenging hiring market.If you’ve ever wondered why a role isn’t attracting the right talent—or why interviews feel misaligned—this episode is a practical place to start.🎧 Listen in and get your next hire off on the right foot.

In this episode of Too Talented, Graham and Corinne discuss the current job market dynamics, focusing on the hidden job market that isn't advertised online. They explore the importance of networking, optimizing job applications, and building relationships with recruiters. The conversation also touches on economic updates regarding inflation and its impact on job opportunities. Listeners are encouraged to be strategic in their job search and to leverage personal connections to uncover unlisted job opportunities.

After a turbulent stretch in hiring, what does 2026 really look like for job seekers and employers? In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we break down the latest economic and labor forecasts — pointing to a year of stabilization and modest growth — and compare it to Graham’s firsthand experience recruiting during the 2010 post–recession recovery. Just like 2010, 2026 is shaping up to be a transition year: hiring is improving, contract roles are strong, and confidence is slowly returning.We also answer two popular questions from LinkedIn:• Are cover letters still necessary in 2025?• Is AI actually replacing jobs?From the rise of resume summaries to how AI is reshaping (not eliminating) roles, we share what we’re really seeing in the market — including a real client example where AI “vibe coding” delayed hiring but didn’t replace it.We wrap with actionable advice for job seekers heading into 2026, including why networking, patience, and flexibility around hybrid/onsite work may be the difference between landing a great role and staying stuck.As always, we kick things off with our running and business updates before diving into what to expect from the year ahead.

In this episode, we break down what actually happened in the job market throughout 2025 — the layoffs, the hiring slowdown, and the trends shaping the landscape for both job seekers and employers. We walk through the latest data on job creation, unemployment, and restructuring across industries, and share what it all means heading into 2026.We also answer two listener questions:1️⃣ “How does a seasoned professional with 20+ years of experience look fresh and relevant on their résumé?”We cover how to modernize your résumé without rewriting your story, what to include from the last 10 years, how to handle early-career roles, and small adjustments that help reduce age bias.2️⃣ “I was just laid off. What’s the first thing I should do?”We talk about the emotional impact of layoffs, how different stress responses (fight, flight, freeze) affect your first steps, and what actions truly help you regain momentum and confidence.As always, we start with quick Strides Staffing updates and our running check-ins.And stay tuned: our next episode will be a full 2026 predictions special — where we share what we believe is coming next for hiring, salaries, AI, and the job market as a whole.

When is it actually okay to take a step back in pay? In today’s job market, many people are facing roles that pay less than what they’ve earned in the past. But a lower salary doesn’t always mean a bad decision. In this episode of The 2Talented Podcast, Graham and Corinne break down the real reasons you might strategically accept less pay and how doing so can set you up for long-term success.We cover when it makes sense to take a pay cut, including:• Changing industries when yours is struggling• Making a career switch and needing to “reset”• Gaining valuable perks like flexibility, remote work, or better hours• Moving to a lower-cost location and navigating the “geo diff”• Taking a temporary step back to unlock better future opportunitiesTaking a step backwards doesn’t mean your career is going backwards. Sometimes it’s the smartest way to move toward stability, growth, and a more fulfilling work life.

You’ve made it through the interviews, and the offer is on the table — now comes the moment that makes most people sweat: salary negotiation. In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we break down exactly how to handle the money conversation with confidence, strategy, and grace.We’ll cover why salary discussions should wait until the end of the process, how to identify your “excited,” “acceptable,” and “basement” numbers, and what to do when the offer doesn’t quite hit the mark. You’ll learn how to build your case using market data, highlight your unique value, and think beyond salary to the full compensation package — from bonuses to benefits to work-life perks.We’ll also talk about how negotiation dynamics shift depending on your career level, and why the best outcomes leave both you and the company feeling like you’ve won.As always, we’ll kick things off with our latest running and business updates before diving into real-world advice that helps you close the deal and start your new job feeling confident, valued, and ready to go.

Summary:According to Forbes, only 30% of new grads in 2025 are working in a field related to their degree — down from 41% just a year ago. The job market is tough, but it’s not hopeless. In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we share our best advice for new graduates stepping into the workforce for the first time.We’ll cover how to stand out when all you have to offer is potential, how to build a strong resume and LinkedIn profile, and why applying broadly (even if you’re not a 100% match) matters. Plus, we’ll talk about getting away from your computer to build real connections — from coffee chats to networking events — and why early in your career, experience and growth matter more than chasing top-dollar offers.As always, we’ll start with our latest running and business updates before diving into real-world strategies that help new grads get noticed, get hired, and start building momentum in their careers.

In this episode, Graham and Corinne Shalvoy discuss Graham's professional journey, the challenges of the current job market, and the excitement of race week. They delve into Graham's transition from sales to recruiting, the differences between finance and technology staffing, and the importance of resilience in both business and personal endeavors. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of starting a recruiting agency, effective time management, and long-term business goals, while drawing insights from the Founders Podcast.

In this episode, we dive into Corinne's professional background and how it led to her journey as an entrepreneur for consulting for a endurance brand, coaching ultramarathon athletes and building the Women Can. Movement.

In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, we start with our usual updates on running, life, and the latest at Strides Staffing before diving into one of the most important parts of interview prep: behavioral interview questions. We break down some of the most common “Tell me about a time…” questions, including teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, adaptability, communication, and achievement. Then we share how to organize your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) so you can respond with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Nervous about your next interview? You’re not alone. In this episode of 2Talented, we break down the most common interview questions and show you how to answer them with confidence. From “Tell me about yourself” to “Why should we hire you?”—we’ll cover the strategies that help you stand out and land the job.We’ll kick things off with updates from Strides Staffing and share our latest running adventures before diving into the seven interview questions you’re almost guaranteed to face. By the end, you’ll know how to frame your strengths, handle weaknesses, and ask thoughtful questions that leave a lasting impression.Whether you’re a recent grad, a career changer, or a seasoned professional, this episode will give you practical tools to shine in your interviews.

They tell you the final interview is “just a formality,” but the truth is—it’s one of the most important steps in the hiring process. In this episode, we break down how to approach the final round with confidence, when and how to negotiate salary, and how to leverage multiple offers without burning bridges. We’ll also tackle the counteroffer dilemma—why 85% of candidates who accept one still leave within a year, and when it might make sense as a short-term move.As always, we kick things off with our latest running and business updates before diving into the strategies that will help you finish strong and land the right opportunity.

Working with recruiters can make or break your job search—but not all recruiters play the same role. In this episode, Graham and Corinne break down best practices for partnering with external recruiters (those hired by companies through recruiting firms) and internal recruiters (those who work directly for the company). Learn why responsiveness matters, how to protect sensitive information, when to lean on interview prep, and the importance of keeping relationships professional. Plus, hear cautionary tales of what not to do so you don’t burn bridges. Whether you’re chasing your next opportunity or just curious about how the hiring process really works, this episode gives you a clear playbook for making recruiters your allies.

Your LinkedIn profile is more than an online résumé—it’s your storefront in today’s job market. In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, Graham and Corinne break down how to create a profile that recruiters actually notice. From crafting a headline that sells like a newspaper cover, to building a searchable “About” section, to keeping certifications updated, we’ll cover the essentials that make you stand out.We’ll also share best practices for growing your network, using the “Open to Work” feature the right way, and staying visible to the right people. Finally, we’ll dive into what not to do on LinkedIn—why politics and polarizing content can hurt you, and our hot take on the “ex-Amazon/ex-Google” headline trend.Whether you’re actively job hunting or just future-proofing your career, these tips will help you maximize LinkedIn’s power without the fluff.

After talking with 50+ tech and talent leaders, Graham and Corinne break down what’s really happening inside companies. Investors are pushing for AI adoption, but many leaders admit it hasn’t changed much yet. Some resume-screening tools have already been scrapped, and even Klarna had to walk back its AI-only customer service model.So what’s next? We explore how AI may cut back hiring in the short-term, but ultimately make human workers more valuable. Think less “robots taking jobs” and more “AI as the next personal computer”—a tool that could actually create jobs and maybe even shorten the workday.🎙️ Tune in for:Real quotes from Fortune 500 leaders on AI hype vs. realityWhy investors are fueling short-term job market slowdownsKlarna’s AI flop (and how it brought back 900+ customer service agents)Why the future belongs to humans using AI, not being replaced by it

🎙️ 2Talented Podcast – Episode 4: Resumes That Get ResultsIf your resume isn’t landing interviews, it’s not because you’re unqualified—it’s because it’s not speaking the language of hiring managers and bots. In this episode, we break down how to write a resume that gets noticed, beats the ATS, and actually leads to interviews.We cover:✅ Cover letter vs. resume summary—where to focus your effort✅ How to customize your resume for the jobs you really want✅ Beating the bot with high-frequency keywords from job descriptions✅ Why repeating critical skills in multiple sections works✅ AI tools (like ChatGPT) that can supercharge your resume without losing your voicePlus, life updates from Graham and Corinne—including job orders in motion, ultra training, and race wins.🎧 Listen in, then grab our Resume Checklist on Patreon for the step-by-step guide.

🎙️ 2Talented Podcast – Episode 3: Networking That Actually WorksApplying online and hearing nothing back? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. In this episode, we break down why traditional job applications aren’t working and how real-world networking can land you your next job.Graham shares the story of a friend who went from 30+ ignored applications to landing a job through just three coffee meetings. We cover practical, step-by-step strategies you can use today:✅ How to reach out to people in your network (and what to say)✅ Smart questions to ask during networking conversations✅ Where to find user groups, local events, and hidden opportunities✅ How hyperlocal tools (like community Facebook groups) lead to real offersPlus, life updates: Graham gets his first job orders and kicks off training for Run Rabbit Run 100, while Corinne wraps up a whirlwind Western States & Hardrock tour and wins the Silverton Alpine 50K by 30 minutes!🎧 Listen in, then grab our Networking Checklist on Patreon for the full step-by-step guide.

🎙️ 2Talented Podcast – Episode 4: Apply Like a BossIf you’re still uploading the same resume to every job board and calling it a day… we need to talk.In this episode, we show you how to apply smarter—not harder. From tailoring your resume to decoding job descriptions, we break down what it actually means to stand out in today’s hiring landscape. Whether you’re applying to 5 jobs or 50, this episode will help you land more interviews without losing your mind.🔥 What we cover:✅ How to tailor your resume in under 10 minutes✅ What hiring managers really look for✅ How to use keywords without sounding like a robot✅ Why applying to fewer jobs with more intention actually works✅ What to do after you hit “submit” to stay top of mindPlus, life and running updates from Graham and Corinne—including job orders in motion and some hard-earned trail miles.

You finally landed the interview—now don’t blow it.In this episode of the 2Talented Podcast, Graham and Corinne break down a practical, no-fluff checklist to help you prep like a pro. From LinkedIn-stalking your interviewer (yes, it’s fair game) to what not to do on Zoom, we’ve got the strategies that will help you stand out—in a good way.We cover:How to research your interviewer without being creepySmart questions that actually impress hiring managersThe difference between “confident” and “cringe” on phone and video interviewsHow to talk salary without fumblingThe one power move almost no one does (spoiler: it’s a thank you note)💡 Plus, we’re sharing the full Interview Prep Checklist and episode transcript over on our Patreon.Whether you’ve got a final round interview or it’s your first one in years, this episode will help you show up ready, sharp, and memorable.🎧 Listen now, then go get that offer.Join our patreon to see the checklist. https://www.patreon.com/c/The2TalentedPodcast

In this inaugural episode of the Too Talented Podcast, hosts Graham and Corinne discuss the current state of the job market, highlighting a disconnect between official employment statistics and the experiences of job seekers. They explore the reasons behind this disconnect, including the concentration of job growth in specific sectors, the impact of AI on hiring processes, and the economic factors contributing to a challenging hiring environment. The episode concludes with a look at potential changes in hiring dynamics and an invitation for listener engagement in future discussions.Visit Strides StaffingJoin our 2Talented Podcast Patreon