PODCAST · business
Aligned Ambition with Pooja V.
by Pooja Venkatraman
Hi! I’m Pooja – I’m a double Harvard grad, ex-BCG consultant, and now a writer, thought leader, and executive coach.I help high achievers tackle stress productivity, performance and purpose so they can fulfill their biggest ambitions and unleash their fullest potential……without sacrificing their sanity, their relationships, their authenticity, or their paychecks.Let’s build the life and career you actually want – one that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside.Book a free consult call to discuss working together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
607
489. 5 key career mistakes high achievers make (part 2)
If you’re a high achiever who knows SOMETHING has to change in your career… But you’re stuck in figuring out exactly WHAT that change is, and what you want to do next…You’re probably making one of these 5 career mistakes.And it’s keeping you spinning in circles, instead of moving forward with clarity and confidence.This week’s podcast episode is all about Mistake #2: Trying to “arrive” or “make it.”Counter-intuitive, right? Don’t we all want to “arrive” and “make it”? Isn’t that the whole point?In this episode, I’ll tell you why the desire to “make it” is actually keeping you stuck and confused about what you want to do next.And I’ll give you 3 steps to take to get you un-stuck.So listen in, and then book your Free Career Audit with me: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact I’ll help you implement and operationalize exactly what I tell you to do in this episode – faster and more effectively than you can do it yourself. Subscribe to my email newsletter to make sure you don’t miss a single installment of this series: https://poojav.substack.com/ And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
606
488. 5 key career mistakes high achievers make (part 1)
If you’re a high achiever who worked really hard to build your career, and you thought you’d feel successful, happy, and fulfilled by now…But instead, you’re feeling stressed, dissatisfied, and like something’s not quite right…You’re probably making one of these 5 key career mistakes.You haven’t screwed things up. There’s nothing wrong with you. And you’re not being privileged or ungrateful.This 5 part series is going to give you clarity about WHY you’re feeling this way and a clear path forward for exactly what to do about it.These 5 mistakes are 100% understandable and 100% fixable.Listen to this week’s podcast episode for a deep dive on Mistake #1.And then book your Free Career Audit for a chance to take a big-picture look at your career, get clear on what you want, identify the gaps, and make a doable plan to close them: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact Subscribe to my email newsletter to make sure you don’t miss a single installment of this series: https://poojav.substack.com/ And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
605
487. The top 5 challenges high achievers face when they get promoted
When you get promoted, there are 5 key skills you need to succeed at your new level. NONE of them are “be good at the core job.” Being good at the core job is table stakes. What you need to succeed are 5 NEW skills (or 5 skills that you’ll be spending significantly more time on than before).For a breakdown of all 5 skills and how to build them, listen to this week’s podcast episode.And then book a free call with me and let’s do a Skill Audit together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact We’ll examine exactly how you’re doing along these 5 dimensions right now.And then build a clear game plan to close the gaps. Book your free call now: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact Email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]And if you’d like to chat with Megan Porter, executive coach for first-time C-suite leaders, email her at [email protected]
-
604
486. The real reason why high achievers burn out
The most important thing, when you’re trying to cure or avoid burnout, is to understand what CAUSES burnout.Because the last thing you want to do is change your job and overhaul your life…only to find yourself burnt out again 6-12 months later.High achievers think burnout is caused by long hours, demanding bosses, and high-pressure targets.And while those things are correlated, they’re not the true root cause.Which is why I’ve seen too many high achievers switch to the “more chill” job…and still end up unhappy.To understand the REAL root cause of burnout – and what you can do to cure or avoid it – listen to this week’s episode.And if burnout feels close (or has already arrived) for you, book a call with me and let’s do a Burnout Audit together.We’ll assess exactly what’s causing your burnout now. And we’ll map out a simple, doable plan for you to stop feeling depleted and get back to feeling like yourself again.Book your free call now: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact For a summary of the key concepts in this episode, check out this guide: https://poojav.substack.com/p/free-guide-the-real-reason-high-achieversAnd email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
603
485. The closer you are to traditional success, the harder it is to find fulfillment
If you’ve achieved some measure of external success, but something still feels “off” in your career, this podcast episode is for you.Achieving the things you’ve worked so hard for – and then finding yourself unhappy or unfulfilled on the other side is…confusing.You wonder: Have I done something wrong? Am I on the wrong path?You look down the long road of the rest of your career, and you’re like, “Is this it? For 30 more years?”Logically, your career makes sense. So you don’t know why it doesn’t FEEL right.But what’s the alternative? Quit and become an artist? That doesn’t seem very practical.In this episode, I explain WHY this happens to high achievers. (Don’t worry, you haven’t done anything wrong. And you don’t have to give up everything you’ve worked for to correct this.)And I tell you what to do about it. This is the unique dilemma high achievers face: Your true path often takes you very near (or straight through) the vortex of external success.And if you want to be both successful AND fulfilled, you have to learn how to navigate this vortex successfully.Step 1 of doing that? Book a Free Career Audit, so we can: Assess exactly where the vortex is pulling you off course todayHelp you can anchor back to what you want – not what you’re supposed to be doingAll while keeping the practicalities of finances, security, and lifestyle in mindSchedule yours here today: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
602
484. How to do something you don’t want to do
Have you ever made a grand plan to do a big project over several days…only to find yourself scrambling at the last minute to get it done?Or told yourself you’ll get up early to work out…only to hit snooze six times the next morning?Or even promised you’ll stop working late in the evenings and spend more time with your family…only to find yourself writing ONE last email before you log off?This week’s episode is all about what to do in that moment. This week’s episode is all about what to do in that moment.When you’ve made a plan that you genuinely WANT to do…But the time has come to execute…And your brain is rebelling and saying, “I don’t want to!”You don’t have to give in and give up.And you don’t have to use willpower and discipline to MAKE yourself do it.Instead, do what I tell you to do in this episode :) And if using this tool makes you realize – “Hang on, I actually DON’T want to do these things…”Book a Free Career Audit with me and let’s figure out why you have a career full of things you don’t want to do – and what you’re going to do about it: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact You'll walk away with:A simple diagnosis of what’s working + not working todayA clear game plan for what to do nextAn objective assessment of whether 1:1 coaching could accelerate your progressAnd email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
601
483. How to know when it’s time to invest in a coach: a 7 point checklist
This week, I’m making something publicly available for the very first time. Normally, you have to get on a consult call with me to hear about this…But I decided to release it out into the world for everyone to see.It is: My 7 point decision making checklist for whether or not to invest in a coach.And I wanted to make it publicly available because, too often, when something is off in our lives… We deliver ourselves into the arms of an expert and relinquish all control.You go to a doctor, a therapist, a financial advisor, a personal trainer, a coach…And you throw yourself at the feet of their expertise and say, “I don't know what’s going on. I’m stumped. I’m confused. You tell me what to do.”And even though it’s often easier to make a sale when someone does that… I actually don’t want you to do that.I want you to feel EMPOWERED, in control, and fully in the driver’s seat of your own career.EVEN when things feel off. EVEN when you’re stuck. EVEN when you’re not sure what to do next.I want you to bring in support like a CEO brings in an advisor.Not like a student with low grades sheepishly hiring a tutor.This decision making checklist is designed to help you do exactly that:Make a powerful, in-control decision about what kind of support you want at this point in your career.It’s a simple series of questions to help you get back in the driver’s seat again.Listen in to hear all about it.And then book your Free Career Audit with me, and let’s talk about exactly what feels off in your career right now, pinpoint the root cause, and build a simple game plan for closing the gap: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
600
482. What if it’s just not possible to build the career you want?
I want you to imagine all the elements of your A+ career.The title. The compensation. The trajectory. The hours. The day-to-day work. The location. The fit with the rest of your life.Chances are, within 3 seconds of even STARTING to imagine that A+ career… Your brain shut you down and said, “That’s not possible.”And guess what? You’re right. It might not be possible.But in today’s podcast episode, I give you 3 reasons why it’s still worth it to try. 3 reasons why you’ll be BETTER off if you try, than if you don’t. Even if you fail. Even if it’s not possible.Listen in to find out.And then book your Free Career Audit with me, and let’s map out exactly where your current career is falling short of A+ and how we can close the gaps: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
599
481. How to declare a major in your career (especially if you’re a generalist)
Many high achievers hit a point in their career where they feel the need to “declare a major.” They’ve done a variety of things so far. They feel like a general problem-solver.But they also feel like, as they progress in their career, “I’ve done a lot of things, and I can do anything!” is not the most compelling pitch.It feels like people prefer to hear, “I can do this SPECIFIC thing. That’s my specialty.”So how do you “declare a major” in your career – without picking the wrong one, or closing doors too early?That’s what this week’s podcast episode is all about.Want to go in depth with me to figure out exactly what major YOU should declare? Book a Free Career Audit and let’s deep dive into your strengths, dreams, and past experiences – and build the game plan for choosing the right major for you and building your career around it: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
598
480. How to emotionally survive a stretch opportunity
The only way to progress in your career is to do things you’ve never done before – aka, sign up for stretch opportunities.Stretch roles and projects are the rocket fuel that can power your career forward…and the trial-by-fire that can burn you out.Whether you’re holding yourself back from asking for one (and knowing it’s holding your career back too)...Or whether you’re actively in one, and trying not to let your imposter syndrome eat you alive…The 3 skills in this episode are what you need to survive, thrive, and grow in the stretch zone.Want to take this to the next level with a custom game plan for your situation? Book a Free Career Audit and let’s do a deep dive: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact Want to learn the specific stretch opportunities you need to secure a C-suite role? Register for my workshop, Charting Your Course to the C-Suite: www.hbswa.org/csuiteMar2026 And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
597
479. Why high achievers feel MORE certain in their career paths when they’re younger, and less certain when they’re older
There’s this common (but rarely spoken about) phenomenon that a lot of high achievers experience partway through their careers.They USED to have so much clarity, certainty, and conviction about their career path.They thought hard. They tried different things. They did all the assessments. And they figured out what they wanted to do. Amazing!And now, several years down that path…With real success and real progress behind them…For some reason, they’re starting to feel uncertain again.Is this really what I want? Do I still have conviction that this is the right path for me? What if I’m on the wrong path?AND they beat themselves up for that uncertainty. What’s wrong with me? Why am I suddenly losing conviction? Have I lost my ambition? Am I going backwards?? When this (extremely common!!) phenomenon happens…DON’T force yourself to just keep marching down the path you’re on.And DON’T rush to find your alternate path asap.What you need is an uncertainty audit. Ideally with me – because they’re really hard to do by yourself.Book yours here! https://poojavcoaching.com/contact What we’re going to do together is slow down and dig into your uncertainty. Find all its ingredients and components. And then use those to develop your diagnosis and game plan.You’ll walk away with a simple diagnosis of WHY you’re feeling this way. (Spoiler alert: Nothing is wrong with you.)And a clear game plan of what to do next. (If I can help, I’ll tell you how. And if I can’t, I’ll point you toward the resources that you need.)Today’s podcast episode gives you some examples of what a diagnosis and game plan could look like.But you won’t know yours until you talk to me. There’s no simple 3 step plan that applies to everyone.But there IS a simple plan that applies to YOU. So let’s develop it together. Book your uncertainty audit today: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
596
478. Don’t celebrate your success. Analyze it.
Most high achievers are allergic to celebrating their successes.At best, celebrating feels corny and fake. It feels like something you “should” do, like your gratitude journal.(And then you feel kind of bad for not doing it.)At worst, celebrating feels dangerous. Resting on your laurels will make you arrogant and complacent… Pride goeth before the fall… The moment you relax is the moment the other shoe is going to drop…And yet, there is GOLD waiting for you inside your successes.Gold that you are MISSING because your brain is so busy focusing on the 1 thing that didn’t go well.80% of my success (at least!) has come from extending and deepening WHAT’S WORKING – not fixing what’s not.So in today’s episode, I give you a simple way to extract and apply your Success Gold without feeling corny and without triggering your fears.If you’re a female HBS alum, come to my monthly roundtable this Thursday Feb 26, and we’ll work together to extract your own success playbook AND you’ll get to grab from the success playbooks of others.Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/845yKxNERTqy5jQXI6UZRQ#/registrationAnd if you want to go beyond extracting just one success playbook and make building on your strengths and extending what’s working a core part of how you operate day-to-day and how you set your career strategy overall…Book a free coaching consult and let’s talk about working together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact That’s exactly what I do with my clients.And that’s exactly what I use my own coaches to do for me. Because building around your strengths is way easier when you have an objective third party to help you identify them and time set aside to strategize and make it happen.And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
595
477. 5 terrible reasons to aim for the C-suite
Tomorrow (Feb 18), executive coach Megan Porter and I kick off a three-part series for the HBS Women’s Association called Charting Your Course to the C-Suite.Register here: www.hbswa.org/csuiteFeb2026 But before you get busy charting your course to the C-suite…I want you to make sure that you actually want to be there.And so, this week’s podcast episode is all about 5 TERRIBLE reasons to aim for the C-suite.Listen in and see if any of them apply to you.(It’s okay if they do. I also tell you what to do to adjust your reasons so they support you instead of working against you :) And then once you’ve gotten your reasoning for aiming for the C-suite strong and clear…Come to our three-part event series, where we’ll help you: ✅ Survey the landscape of C-suite roles ✅ Define the C-suite role that’s right for you✅ Make a plan to land it – and crush it in the role Register here: www.hbswa.org/csuiteFeb2026 If you’re not a female HBS alum, or the event is already done, but you’re still interested in what we shared, shoot me an email at [email protected] and I’ll see what I can do!And if this podcast episode made you realize that you’re not quite sure WHAT you want, and you want some help getting clear and confident on your path… Book a free consult call with me, and let’s talk: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
594
476. 5 unintuitive things my parents did to raise two daughters with four Ivy League degrees
Okay, one thing I want to tell you before I let you loose to listen to this week’s podcast episode.This episode is just the tip of the iceberg. If you want to hear from two women who have actually done this…Come to my workshop: Intergenerational Wisdom for High Achieving MomsIt’s a fireside chat featuring my mom (senior leader at a Wall St bank for 20+ years) and Kelly Huang (HBS MBA, board leader, and professor).Two hardworking Asian immigrant moms that balanced their careers with parenting and raised two happy, successful children each.Ask them your questions. Get advice directly from the women who have done it.Register here: https://luma.com/s9v850p4(We’ll be sending a replay to everyone who registers, so make sure to register even if you can’t make it live!)Okay, now you can listen to find out the 5 unintuitive things my parents did to raise two daughters with four Ivy League degrees.Because my parents didn’t…❌ Tell us what we had to do❌ Force us down pre-determined “success pathways”❌ Yell at us all the time and make us scared of them❌ Tell us it was their way or the highwayInstead…they did these 5 things.Listen to find out :) To chat about how you can implement these ideas in your life, book a free coaching consult and let’s talk about working together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
593
475. You can be ambitious about anything
This week’s podcast episode is about ambition — and what happens when the things you want to be ambitious about no longer fit into a narrow, career-only definition.I talk about:Why ambition doesn’t disappear when you stop wanting the corner office and the C-suite jobHow to redirect ambition instead of abandoning itA simple thought exercise for making this concept come to life in your brain and reignite your spark 🔥If you’re not lit up by the path you’re on anymore…But you also don’t want to give up or check out on your big career ambitions…This is the episode for you.And if this episode makes you realize that your ambition is very much alive, but pointed at the wrong thing…Pause. Because this matters.Ambition, at its best, is an expression of who you are and the sacred work you’re meant to do in this world. It’s not about ego, titles, or accomplishments. It’s about bringing out what’s best in you and making the impact you were born to make.If you want support clarifying where your ambition belongs next, and then aiming your fire in that direction…Book a free coaching consult and let’s talk about working together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
592
474. Don’t confuse status with purpose
This episode is about why it’s so hard to get clear on what you actually want, especially as a high achiever.I talk about:How subtle peer pressure distorts your true desiresTwo questions that help you separate what you want from what looks impressiveHow to work with status consciously instead of pretending it doesn’t matterIf you’ve ever felt unsure whether you genuinely want to be on the path you’re on…Or whether you’re just being driven by social pressure… This episode will give you a clean, simple way to tell the difference.And if asking these questions cracks open a can of worms… If you realize you’re not sure what you want, or you’re not sure whether you want to stay on your current path…You’re not alone.That exact moment is where coaching was most helpful for me.You don’t need to make a rash decision. You don’t need to quit your job.You do need space to think clearly, untangle what’s driving what, and make a grounded decision you can stand behind.If that’s where you are, book a free coaching consult and let’s talk: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
591
473. 5 ways to toggle your brain from a stress state to a flow state
You don’t see the world as it is. You filter reality through the state of your nervous system.That’s why this week’s podcast episode zooms in on stress.I talk about:Why the headspace you’re in is more important than what you doThe two broad categories your thoughts & emotions fall into – stress and flowHow to build a personal playbook you can use to reliably shift out of fight-or-flight and back into calm, clarity, and momentumThis is so simple and so effective, and I cannot WAIT to share it with you.I also help my clients build and use these playbooks – customized to their nervous system, their goals, and their reality.If you want to be able to toggle your brain reliably from stress to flow on a daily basis…And change the filter you’re putting on your reality on demand…Book a free coaching consult and let’s talk about how we can work together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact The ROI on this work is enormous – not just in the end results you achieve, but in how you feel every step of the way.Come talk to me, and let’s get you moving forward smoothly and effectively today :)And email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
590
472. Me Problem vs. Process Problem
In this episode, I talk about the productivity and performance side of aligned ambition.Specifically, I introduce a distinction that comes up all the time in my work with clients – and that I use constantly in my own life:Me Problem vs. Process ProblemThis distinction matters any time something doesn’t go the way you wanted it to.A meeting doesn’t landA project doesn’t get the result you expectedYou miss something you “should have” anticipatedYou procrastinate, get distracted, or don’t follow through the way you intendedBefore you jump into tactics, fixes, or self-improvement plans…There’s one critical step that determines whether your troubleshooting will actually help — or just burn you out.Book a free coaching consult, and let’s talk about how we could work together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact Email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected]
-
589
471. Welcome to Aligned Ambition
A few big things that are changing around here!First, I’m changing how I’m putting out content across all my platforms.And second, as you may have noticed, I’ve retitled the podcast Aligned Ambition.Today’s podcast episode explains both of those shifts. I talk about:Why I’m moving to a podcast-first approach this yearWhat I mean by Aligned Ambition and why it’s the perfect umbrella term to encompass all my workThe 4 key ingredients of aligned ambition – and why it has to be continuously created and maintainedThe 4 key moments when coaching can accelerate your careerAn awesome resource I’m putting together for you, that I can’t wait to share with you soon! :)Email me anytime with thoughts, feedback, and topics you’d like to see covered on the podcast! [email protected] And if you don’t want to wait, and you’d like to get unstuck today…Book a free coaching consult, and let’s talk about how we could work together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
588
240. 1 question you MUST include when evaluating yourself
1 question you MUST include when evaluating yourselfThat you are definitely not asking nowBook a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“I would recommend Pooja to anyone who feels like there is a part of their life where they feel stuck — either stuck in a vicious thought cycle, or stuck at work, or stuck in some sort of unhealthy personal relationship, or not able to improve some aspect of their life that they want to.Honestly that’s probably everybody, because everyone’s probably stuck in some aspect of their life.”—Client | Head of Business Development at MedTech CompanyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
587
258. Afraid of failure? Listen to this.
You’re already living your worst case scenario.Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“Everything in the world is about feelings. At the end of the day, that’s the reality of the human condition. And so to get to this level of analytical rigor around my feelings is just so helpful.”—Client | CEO, PE-backed companyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
586
208. The one-liner I use to combat my fear of failure
This is my only sports metaphor ⚾️Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“Pooja has a really good balance of validating your emotions but also giving feedback and being upfront like, ‘Hey, I’ve seen this pattern in you.’That made me trust her and her frameworks — she is really looking out long term for the client’s best interest.”—Client | CEO, PE-backed companyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
585
271. How to spend more time in flow
How to spend more time in flowAll it takes is a simple conversation with yourself.Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“Some weeks, I have a very specific thing that is troubling me, and I’m excited to talk about it.And there are other times where I came in and I didn’t quite know what I wanted to talk about, and those were the sessions where Pooja was able to help me unpack something that I didn’t even know was there.It surprised me that I didn’t have to do all the work in advance to come in with the agenda of what I needed to talk about, and that there are nuggets and insights to get, no matter how clearly I even see the problem coming in.”—Client | Early-Stage Tech Startup Director turned Design ConsultantRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
584
252. Your self-criticism isn't helping you
Your self-criticism isn't helping youIt's like trying to run a race with a broken legBook a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“I have a healthier internal monologue. I still have an internal monologue, but it’s a positive one.And there are moments where I slip back into some of the negative thought cycles I used to be in, and it’s almost like I can hear—‘Pooja would tell me to stop assuming that everyone thinks I’m annoying.And Pooja would tell me to advocate for myself, because what’s the worst that could happen?And Pooja would tell me to take a break and acknowledge that thought, but not get sucked into it and move on with my day.’There’s a second layer now of my internal monologue that is the healthy helper, which I developed from coaching, that just stops me from ever regressing too far into those negative thoughts.”—Client | Head of Business Development at MedTech CompanyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
583
153. The best productivity tool is feeling good about yourself
What matters ≠ which strategy you pick. What matters = what you think about yourself when that strategy stops working.Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“It’s honestly fun. You’re working on the most important thing in your life — your goals and your aspirations. And you’re doing it in a manner that is not harsh or strict. It’s like a video game, and you get to gently make progress towards the things that matter.”—Client | Solutions Engineer at Fintech CompanyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
582
244. The question I ask my clients when they’re totally stuck
That you can ask yourself too :)Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“I realized that I wasn’t alone in a lot of my situations. In fact, what I was going through was very common.And that there were tools that I could use to get out of this, and that I wasn’t the first person in the world to go through and I’m not going to be the last.And that Pooja has seen this before and that she is very well equipped and familiar with how to troubleshoot these things. That helped so much.”—Ashley | VP at Major Financial InstitutionRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
581
281. Getting what you want is an amplifier, not a converter
It’s not achieve thing ➡️ feel better. It’s feel better ➡️ achieve thing.Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“I would in particular recommend Pooja to this specific phenotype of high achievers.We put a lot of pressure on ourselves and the outside world might never understand that our lives are not as perfect as they seem, or that we struggle as much as we do.I think that phenotype in particular, would benefit a ton from working with Pooja specifically.”—Client | Head of Business Development at MedTech CompanyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
580
202. A little exercise for you to do today
A little exercise for you to do todayLet's just notice 🤔💭Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact———What my clients have to say…“I realized that you can learn just as much from your wins as from your losses. When you have aspirations and big ambitions, it’s really easy to be harsh on yourself.What changed the game for me was realizing that being mean to yourself and making progress are not related to each other at all.Actually, you can have a completely normal, healthy relationship with yourself and encourage yourself AND make progress. I enjoy the process so much more now.”—Client | Solutions Engineer at Fintech CompanyRead more client testimonials here: https://poojavcoaching.com/testimonials-page———I help high achievers get clear on what’s next and make that next step happen…Whether that’s leveling up where they are, or making their next career move.Did you know I have 400+ articles covering every possible angle of this topic? Check them out at my Table of Contents, where all my work is organized by theme so you can easily find what you need today: https://poojav.substack.com/p/welcome-to-your-brains-bffAnd if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe to my email newsletter: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
579
219. 3 ways to think about doing something "different" in your career
3 ways to think about doing something "different" in your careerAnd kill the compare and despairBook a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
578
470. Here’s how my solo bday trip went… (part 2)
Register for my workshop, Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays here: https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4JbwI can’t wait to see you there! :)
-
577
469. Here’s how my solo bday trip went… (part 1)
Register for my workshop, Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays, here: https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4Jbw
-
576
468. One of my biggest holiday stressors…
You’ll probably relate to this 🫢And if you do, come to my workshop: Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The HolidaysRegister here: https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4Jbw
-
575
467. A therapist + A coach = Your best holidays yet
The best stress-fighting duo in the biz 💥Register for our workshop, Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays today! https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4Jbw?
-
574
466. You need a scorecard for the holidays
I know it sounds unsexy, un-magical, and all too corporate, but…I know you.You THRIVE with a plan, some structure, and clear targets to aim for.So let’s just put those in place.We only need an hour to do it.Because that’s what we’re going to do in the Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays workshop next week.Register here! https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4Jbw?
-
573
465. It’s my 35th birthday :)
here's what I'm up to!And register now for the Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays workshop: https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4JbwYou’re going to walk away with Want Mode activated and your Holiday Magic plan in place :)(And don’t worry if you can’t make it live – we’ll be sending a replay to everyone who registers. So register today!)
-
572
464. Why my birthday always stresses me out
and btw it’s my bday tomorrow :)Register for the Surviving (And Maybe Even Enjoying) The Holidays workshop here! https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4JbwAnd if you’re wondering what I decided to do for my birthday, anchored 100% in Wants, not Should’s…I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow :) Subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss a thing: https://poojav.substack.com/
-
571
463. Upcoming Workshop! Surviving (and Maybe Even Enjoying) the Holidays
The holidays are billed as the happiest time of year – but for many of us, they’re also the most stressful. Join me and Harvard-educated therapist Margaret Wang, LMFT, for a practical workshop designed for high achievers and overthinkers. You’ll learn simple, evidence-based tools to manage overwhelm, redefine success, and bring more calm, intention, and even joy. Register here and tell your friends! :) https://partiful.com/e/iql7IdUvmdxmdBmH4Jbw
-
570
462. 7 operating model flips that will help you level up as a leader (part 1)
Op Model Flip #1: “I don't know” is an asset, not a liability.————Knowing what the op model flips are is just the first step. You also have to: → Customize the flips to your situation→ Test and experiment with your new operating model without taking undue risk→ Stay emotionally resilient through the unfamiliarity, uncertainty, and occasional failure of building a new way of workingAll of which is a million times easier with a coach. I help my clients consolidate all that work into one hour a week, with intentional experiments to try between sessions and a regular cadence of after-action reviews and targeted adjustments.All of which ensures the level-up gets done, instead of just being a someday dream.And it also saves you a ton of time, bandwidth, and headache – because you have enough to do already.Op Model Flip #2 is coming tomorrow - make sure to subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss it: https://poojav.substack.com/ And if you want to get this level-up done and not just read about it, come talk to me and let’s put together your custom plan and make it happen: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
569
461. The real prize waiting at the end of 100 failures
It's not just leveling up...–––––Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
568
460. Fuck it up. Do it wrong. Waste your time.
To level up your performance, that’s the best advice I can give you.————Tomorrow, I’ll tell you the real prize that’s waiting on the other side of your 100 failures.Because it’s not just increased capacity, leveled-up performance, or a successful pivot.It’s something even better :)Subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss a thing: https://poojav.substack.com/ And if you’re ready to get started on your 100 failure journey through the inflection point you’re in…And you want some expertise and support to keep you on track and help you do this as painlessly as possible…Come talk to me and let’s make it happen: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
567
459. The 3 inflection points high achievers face in their careers
Are you in one right now?——————Tomorrow, I’m going to give you a 5 step process that you can use to generate and rack up your 100 failures.Subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss a thing: https://poojav.substack.com/ And if you found yourself nodding along as I described the 3 inflection points because you’re realizing you might be at one (or multiple at the same time)... Come talk to me and let’s make this inflection point as smooth and hockey-stick-like as possible :) https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
566
458. Execution Mode vs. Exploratory Mode
And when you need each———Tomorrow, I’m going to tell you about the 3 kinds of inflection points high achievers face in their careers, and why you need Exploratory Mode when you’re in them.Subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss a thing: https://poojav.substack.com/And if you’ve been stuck for more than two weeks on a stress, productivity, performance, or purpose question…Come talk to me and let’s crack it together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
565
457. Hello! I’m back! :)
Subscribe to my email newsletter so you don’t miss a thing: https://poojav.substack.com/ And if you’ve also been secretly spinning on existential questions and reaching for a sense of “more” without knowing how to get there…Come talk to me and let me help you figure it out: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
564
456. Parenting advice that can help you in your job search
Courtesy of Dr. Becky :)Come talk to me and let’s separate the signal from the noise…And use your negative emotions to map your path forward today.Book your free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
563
455. If you're feeling stuck in your career: You’re not confused. You’re conflicted.
This is a good thing :)And if you want to work through the conflict and churn up the answer, come talk to me, and let’s get started. Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
562
454. This 2x2 might solve all your career confusion in the next 2 minutes
Let me tell you how.I saw this 2x2 on Instagram recently, and I had to share it with you…Because it perfectly encompasses your 4 strategic options when you’re deciding what to do next in your career.So if you’ve been feeling stressed and stuck in your career for a while…And you feel like you’re wandering in circles trying to get clear on what’s next…Book a free consult call with me, and let’s get you clear, confident, and moving forward today.Grab your call right here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
561
453. The career pivot mistake I’ve made multiple times
Telling you so you don’t make it too 🙈And if you want my help getting clarity, confidence, and momentum on your next career step…And building that next step around your STRENGTHS, not your SHOULD’S…Come talk to me, and let’s make it happen.Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
560
452. The exact process I used to navigate every career pivot
You need to build around your unique Flow MO Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
-
559
451. The exact sentence I say to myself when I’m stressed
It might surprise you to learn that I have QUITE a negative brain.If you want my help getting clear on what’s next in your career, book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contactI can’t wait to talk to you! :)
-
558
450. What getting stuck in the rain has to do with your next career step
You know the answer. You’re just afraid to do it.This is what I looked like with the produce bag over my head: https://tinyurl.com/dfps6md4Book a free consult call here: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hi! I’m Pooja – I’m a double Harvard grad, ex-BCG consultant, and now a writer, thought leader, and executive coach.I help high achievers tackle stress productivity, performance and purpose so they can fulfill their biggest ambitions and unleash their fullest potential……without sacrificing their sanity, their relationships, their authenticity, or their paychecks.Let’s build the life and career you actually want – one that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside.Book a free consult call to discuss working together: https://poojavcoaching.com/contact
HOSTED BY
Pooja Venkatraman
Loading similar podcasts...