At This Time

PODCAST · business

At This Time

Recruiting is like running a marathon where the route keeps changing, the finish line moves, and someone tells you halfway through, “Actually, we’ve decided it’s a pie eating contest now” At This Time takes you inside the wild world of hiring, with stories from recruiters and job seekers navigating the madness. Join Eric as he unpacks ghosting candidates, surprise curveballs, and the occasional perfect fit. Whether you’re chasing talent or your next job, this podcast delivers humor, insights, and all the real talk you didn’t know you needed.

  1. 59

    Maryam Mahdaviani on Why That "Verified" LinkedIn Profile Might Be a North Korean Spy

    At This Time ... hiring fraud has officially leveled up — and your gut instincts aren't enough anymore. Maryam, founder of Attesto, joins Eric to break down how sophisticated fraudsters are now slipping past background checks and LinkedIn verification with fully fabricated (but convincing) identities. From North Korean operatives trying to infiltrate companies to deepfake impersonators acing your interview process, the threat is real — and quietly expensive. Maryam walks through how Attesto's AI-powered trust layer analyzes hundreds of signals (IP address, phone type, email footprint, and more) to catch what human recruiters simply can't — before a bad hire costs you $700K or your company's IP. Attesto is the trust layer for hiring and is focused on bringing greater integrity and confidence to modern recruiting workflows. We partner closely with talent acquisition teams to detect fraudulent applications, synthetic candidate profiles, and other trust-related risks that are becoming increasingly prevalent as hiring becomes more digital and AI-driven. The work sits at the intersection of recruiting operations, identity, risk, and candidate experience. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Maryam Mahdaviani; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  2. 58

    Nicole Wellman Noble on Taking the Leap: From In-House Talent Leader to Consultant

    At This Time, Eric sits down with longtime colleague and friendly rival Nicole Wellman Noble — a charter school talent veteran who traded her in-house seat at Bright Star for the consultant life. Nicole gets real about what it actually takes to make that jump (hint: it's more than just a LinkedIn rebrand), why imposter syndrome never fully disappears, and how her work is evolving alongside some of the most heated contract negotiations happening in LA and beyond. If you're in talent, education, or just curious about what it looks like to bet on yourself — this one's for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Nicole Wellman Noble; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  3. 57

    Joanna Belcher on What The Bachelorette Disaster Can Teach You About Hiring

    At This Time, Eric DeSobe sits down with talent expert and reality TV enthusiast Joanna Belcher to unpack the hiring lessons hidden inside the Bachelorette's season cancellation — and yes, it gets surprisingly insightful. From the "always be cultivating" mindset to the game-changing 10-reference strategy, Joanna breaks down why charisma and ratings potential (in TV and hiring) can blind you to red flags hiding in plain sight. She makes a compelling case for why self-awareness and candid feedback are the two most underrated traits in any candidate — and any leader. Whether you're casting a reality show or building a team, this one's got receipts. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Joanna Belcher; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  4. 56

    Henry Liu on Hiring Teachers Internationally

    At This Time, we're diving into one of the most niche — and fascinating — hiring challenges in education: recruiting Mandarin-fluent teachers from overseas. Henry Liu, Director of Talent & HR at Yu Ming Charter School, one of California's top public schools, breaks down what it actually takes to hire internationally, navigate visa sponsorships, and set teachers up for success in a U.S. classroom they've never stepped foot in before. From J-1 visas to H1B sponsorships, Henry gets real about the questions recruiters need to ask before chasing international talent — and why being upfront about your organization's long-term intentions can make or break a hire. Plus, how do you assess whether someone who's never lived in America can thrive teaching American kids? Henry's got a framework for that too. If you think your hiring process is complex, wait until you hear this one. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Henry Liu; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  5. 55

    Dave Tassone on Leaving Education for Criminal Justice Reform — and Why the Skills Transferred Perfectly

    At This Time ... we're sitting down with Dave Tassone, a former Teach For America educator turned healthcare talent leader, who made a career pivot that most people wouldn't see coming — from charter school management to a mental health agency serving people navigating the criminal justice system. Dave shares how a bond with a student who became incarcerated during his first year of teaching never quite left him, and eventually pulled him toward this work years later. Now heading up people & culture at Project 180 LA, he's building a team from scratch in one of the most mission-driven environments around. We also get into AI slop in job applications (yes, someone submitted a resume with the ChatGPT prompt still in it), how AI is quietly revolutionizing clinical documentation, and why change management in a multigenerational workforce is the real challenge nobody's talking about. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Dave Tassone; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  6. 54

    Emily Gaines on Why People Are Still Peopling (Despite AI)

    At This Time... Emily Gaines, Head of Talent, HR & Learning at SESI Schools, joins us for a candid conversation about building an HR function from scratch across 16 states, hiring 2,500 specialized education employees a year, and why going fast too soon almost cost her everything. She breaks down SESI's AI-powered phone screening tool — processing 50,000–70,000 applications annually — and shares why the retention data genuinely surprised her. But the real kicker? After all that AI talk, Emily will tell you straight: no algorithm is saving a bad candidate in a live interview. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Emily Gaines; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  7. 53

    Zainab Ali on What Teachers Actually Want

    At This Time ... Zainab Ali breaks down fresh survey data on what really drives teachers’ decisions — and spoiler alert: it’s not flashy perks. It’s the basics done well: fair pay, safety, coaching, stability, growth, and transparency. But here’s the kicker — a surprising number of young teachers don’t even know what a charter school is. If educators can’t clearly see who you are or what you offer, they can’t choose you. This episode is a wake-up call for leaders to stop chasing shiny initiatives and start communicating what actually matters. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Zainab Ali; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  8. 52

    Trinity Dubriel on Why Healthcare Hiring Is Still Human at Heart

    At This Time ... what happens when a former education recruiter steps into the fast-paced world of pediatric healthcare? Trinity Dubriel shares how she’s navigating high-volume hiring, specialized roles, and competitive talent markets—while still insisting on one thing: keeping the human touch. From manually reviewing hundreds of resumes (yes, really) to prioritizing mission alignment and retention over quick hires, Trinity makes the case that great recruiting isn’t about automation—it’s about intention. If you care about talent, AI, or building teams that actually stick, this episode delivers. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Trinity Dubriel; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  9. 51

    Jason Alagha on Hiring the Heart of After-School

    At This Time we’re stepping inside recruitment season at KIPP SoCal Public Schools, where Jason Alagha is hiring the people who shape what happens after the final school bell rings. From coaching first-time job seekers through their very first interview to staffing 20 schools with wildly different personalities, Jason breaks down what it really takes to find talent that can lead a room of 10 kids (and survive the chaos). We talk stepping stones into education, why scenario questions reveal more than résumés ever could, and how AI might actually free recruiters up to be more human—not less. If you’ve ever wondered how great after-school programs get built… this is the behind-the-scenes playbook. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Jason Alagha; add him on LinkedIn; apply at www.kippsocal.org/careers Watch on YouTube

  10. 50

    Brandon Amoroso on Reinventing Recruiting, One Dinner and One Data Point at a Time

    🎧 Summary: At This Time ... Brandon Amoroso is scaling way more than just dinners — he's scaling the entire recruiting process. From hosting 50+ exclusive talent dinners across the U.S. to building Scaleless, an all-in-one recruiting platform that actually learns, Brandon shares how he's bridging the gaps in hiring caused by clunky legacy systems and chaotic AI overload. Hear how his platform eliminates keyword spam, streamlines candidate sourcing with AI agent Bella, and creates real-world connections over dinner that turn into hires. It’s like if LinkedIn, an ATS, and ChatGPT had a smarter, socially-savvy baby. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Brandon Amoroso; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  11. 49

    Kayla Snowden on What 400 Resumes a Day Will Teach You About Hiring

    At This Time … we catch up with Kayla Snowden, a former teacher and school recruiter who made the leap from education to tech—and now sorts through 400+ resumes per job in the corporate world. She spills on what shocked her most about recruiting outside of schools (spoiler: format matters), how she crash-coursed her way into tech lingo, and why AI-generated resumes can be a one-way ticket to rejection. If you've ever wondered what it’s like to go from hiring teachers to hiring DevOps managers, this one’s for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Kayla Snowden; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  12. 48

    Jessica Edelman on Why Middle School Science Is the Unicorn of Hiring

    🎧 SUMMARY: At This Time … we dive into the wild world of education talent with Jessica Edelman, who’s been filling school roles for nearly a decade and still can’t find enough brave souls for 7th grade science. She talks TFA, teacher residencies, and how growth mindset is still the ultimate green flag in interviews. Plus, the shift from “no excuses” to restorative discipline, and why AI-written cover letters better come spellchecked. If you’ve ever tried to hire—or be—a teacher, this one hits home. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Jessica Edelman; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  13. 47

    Bonnie Dilber on Becoming That LinkedIn Person—for the Right Reasons

    At This Time… recruiter and accidental LinkedIn star Bonnie Dilber joins to share how she went from teaching kindergarten to running talent at Zapier — and building a wildly influential LinkedIn presence along the way. She spills on using LinkedIn like a pro without turning into a cringe content machine, why job-seeker scams make her furious, and how being visible online opened surprising doors (including the New York Times). Whether you're job hunting or just lurking, this one's got the real talk. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Bonnie Dilber; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  14. 46

    Ashlee Fletcher on What Recruiters Really Want to See

    At This Time ... we're going behind the scenes of the hiring process with Ashlee Fletcher, a seasoned recruiter at KIPP who’s interviewed literally over a thousand candidates. She spills on the biggest resume red flags, what makes a candidate unforgettable, and why mission alignment matters way more than you think. From calming nervous applicants to coaching her own family through job hunts, Ashlee keeps it real, human, and hilarious. Bonus: her advice for nailing that awkward video interview? Gold. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Ashlee Fletcher; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  15. 45

    Emarciano Perez on Why Passion Beats Experience in the Classroom

    At This Time … we’re diving into the world of first-time teachers, five-minute demo lessons, and job interviews that start on LinkedIn and end at Prank Bar. Emarciano Perez joins us to unpack how he spots future educators—no credential required. From resume coaching for family to turning group interviews into bonding moments, Emarciano shares what really matters when you're hiring for heart and hustle. Also, he might not be deep on recruiter TikTok (yet), but his LinkedIn game? Strong. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Emarciano Perez ; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  16. 44

    Arica Watford on Turning LA Parties into Hiring Pipelines

    At This Time … we’re talking costume parties, career pivots, and clean resumes with recruiting superstar Arica Watford. From pitching teaching gigs in alien ears to building genuine connections that last long after onboarding, Arica shares her magic formula for talent scouting in LA. She dishes on what not to say in interviews, why TikTok might be your next hiring channel, and how AI is helping (not replacing) recruiters have better convos with candidates. Also, yes—there’s a Jonas Brothers Christmas movie review. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Arica Watford ; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  17. 43

    Ryan Romaneski on Why Teacher Recruitment Is Finally Getting Easier—Sort Of

    At This Time ... Eric and Ryan dive into the evolving state of education recruitment, where the vibes are slightly more optimistic—but no one's popping champagne yet. Ryan shares what’s actually working to keep educators around (hint: it’s not just pay), how AI is quietly reshaping the hiring game, and why texting beats email every time. From accidental career pivots to the eternal hunt for high school science teachers, this episode’s full of practical intel and hard-won wisdom from the frontlines of talent. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Ryan Romaneski ; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  18. 42

    Cristina De La Cruz on Why Embedded Recruiting Is the Future of TA

    At This Time, Cristina De La Cruz drops a masterclass in modern recruiting, unpacking her 20-year journey from publishing sales to a game-changing embedded recruitment model at ISG Partners. She explains how today’s hiring leaders are ditching traditional RPOs in favor of flexible, month-to-month recruiters who feel like internal teammates. From legal staffing trenches to startup growth sprints, Cristina shares real talk on what’s working in a chaotic job market—and why your network is still your best tool. If you’re scaling a team or job hunting in this AI-infused talent landscape, this convo is gold. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Cristina De La Cruz Raser ; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  19. 41

    Theo Smith on Making the Jump from Teaching to Talent and Beyond

    At This Time … we’re tracing Theo Smith’s journey from high school math teacher to talent leader and fractional executive matchmaker. From learning the ropes of recruitment under a TFA alum legend to proving his nonprofit chops translate in the for-profit world, Theo breaks down how he leveled up his skill set—without losing his passion for professional development. Now at VChief, he’s helping leaders do less… so they can lead more. And yes, he’s got strong opinions about consultants who can’t woo on Zoom. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Theo Smith; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  20. 40

    Brian Rosario on Why Retention Is the New Recruiting in College Sports

    At This Time ... we're diving into the billion-dollar shakeup happening in college sports with former D1 basketball coach and NetChasers host, Brian Rosario. After 26 years on the sidelines, Brian’s now helping programs rethink how they fund, recruit, and retain talent in the wild world of NIL and revenue sharing. From managing locker room culture to navigating crazy parents, Brian reveals how today’s coaches are more like GMs than ever. If you thought hiring a math teacher was tough, try recruiting a 17-year-old with a brand deal. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn  Guest: Brian Rosario; add him on LinkedIn  Watch on YouTube

  21. 39

    Dave Bress on Ditching the Rubric and Hiring with Heart

    At This Time... Dave Bress joins us to talk talent, rubrics, and why AI might just be the best assistant recruiter you never hired. From classroom teacher to education staffing pro, Dave has interviewed thousands (yes, thousands!) of candidates—and he’s come full circle on what really matters in hiring: the human connection. We dig into why rigid checklists are out, curiosity is key in salary talks, and how LinkedIn has become less about job hunting and more about meaningful networking. Whether you’re job-hugging or hiring, this one’s full of gems. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Dave Bress; add him on LinkedIn or email him here Watch on YouTube

  22. 38

    Erin Keller on What Great Hiring Actually Looks Like

    At This Time ... Erin Keller pulls back the curtain on elite-level recruiting, sharing how she helped sift thousands of applications for the prestigious Broad Residency and what she’s doing differently now that the talent game has changed. From ditching video interviews to emphasizing leadership’s ripple effect on hiring culture, Erin serves up sharp insights with zero fluff. Oh, and if you’re “deeply drawn” to a job, she has a bone to pick with your cover letter.  Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Erin Keller; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  23. 37

    Kevin Bryant on Why Hiring Is Personal, Not Transactional

    At This Time, we're talking with Kevin Bryant of GoodCitizen about why executive searches aren't just about resumes—they're about relationships. From hundreds of interviews to countless boardroom decisions, Kevin shares why compassion, clarity, and community matter more than ever in today’s weird, wobbly talent market. He’s placing transformative leaders, not just filling seats—and he’s got the data (and the receipts) to back it up. If you’ve ever wondered how search firms should work, this one’s for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Kevin Bryant; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  24. 36

    Robert Crayton on Automating Trust in Hiring

    At This Time … we’re diving into the trenches of charter school hiring with Robert Crayton, founder of Ed Pursuit. Robert built a tool that automates those tedious AB 2534 reference checks—because calling five principals for every candidate just isn’t scalable. He shares how he taught himself to code, navigates the AI arms race in hiring, and why being a niche startup beats being another forgotten line in a giant vendor contract. Whether you're drowning in EdTech pitches or just want to hire smarter, this one's for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Robert Crayton; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  25. 35

    James Lord on Why Reference Checks Still Matter (and How to Do Them Right)

    At This Time... we’re cutting through the noise of bloated resumes, sketchy inbox applications, and outdated hiring rituals with James Lord, reference-checking aficionado and North American trailblazer for RefApp. James dishes on why references aren’t dead, how to get real insight (not fluff), and why a “pass/fail” background check just doesn’t cut it in today’s talent game. Whether you're still cold-calling former bosses or knee-deep in ATS integrations, this episode is your permission slip to rethink references—for good. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: James Lord; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Fajxnqy8dfk

  26. 34

    Kara Maguire on Jumping from Chief of Staff to Solo Consulting Star

    At This Time … Kara Maguire is making moves—and not the small kind. After 20 years in the education talent world, including a Chief of Staff role at Ednovate, Kara’s stepping out of the school system and into consulting. She joins Eric to talk about what it means to start fresh, why systems matter more than superheroes, and how she’s using AI to roleplay her way into new client convos. If you’ve ever dreamed of trading structure for stretch goals, this one's your permission slip. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Kara Maguire; add her on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tgvu6cFQE3I

  27. 33

    Dylan Gruver on Making Schools the Best Place to Work and Learn

    At This Time … Dylan Gruver from Friendship Public Charter Schools shares what it takes to keep nearly 5,000 students learning and hundreds of staff thriving. From rethinking teacher roles and flexible work setups to leading with empathy (and knowing everyone’s name), Dylan breaks down the real levers of retention in education. He also dives into why AI might be better for boosting student rigor than HR efficiency, and why “big enough to matter, small enough to care” is his secret sauce. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Dylan Gruver; add him on LinkedIn Watch on YouTube

  28. 32

    Aaron Cuny on Finding the Sweet Spot Between AI and Humans

    At This Time … we’re exploring the messy middle of AI adoption with Aaron Cuny, co-founder of AI for Equity. From using AI as a “sparring partner” in job interviews to rethinking quality control when your team is half-human, half-robot, Aaron makes the case for a blended approach. He shares how school systems can hire for AI fluency and creativity, why “don’t bring a PowerPoint—bring a prototype” should be the new workplace motto, and what the next school year means for AI in education. This one’s equal parts practical tips and future-gazing. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Aaron Cuny; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  29. 31

    Anoli Patel on Founding Schools, Hiring Right, and Pressure-Testing Leaders

    At This Time... we go back to the early days of a founding school with Anoli Patel, who knows what it’s like to build a team from scratch when the stakes are sky-high. She shares the must-have traits she looks for in new hires, why scenario-based “pressure tests” can separate theory from reality, and how humility can be as important as skill. Plus: how AI could change the hiring game—and why even the smartest chatbot still can’t handle a classroom of 6-year-olds.

  30. 30

    Ricardo Sanchez, Jr. on Turning Interns into Industry Insiders

    At This Time... we’re talking all things internships in Hollywood with Ricardo Sanchez, Jr. from Lionsgate (the studio behind such hits as John Wick and The Hunger Games). From sports journalism dreams to building one of the most respected intern programs in the biz, Ricardo shares how he helps young talent break into the entertainment industry — without needing to step in front of a camera. Hear why interns aren’t just coffee-fetchers (they're pitching real campaigns!) and how Lionsgate is using Gen Z insight to shape the future of content. Spoiler: Your favorite summer blockbuster might just have intern fingerprints on it. Host: Eric DeSobe; add him on LinkedIn Guest: Ricardo Sanchez, Jr.; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  31. 29

    Dr. LeAnna Majors & Chinedu Udeh on Building Power, Not Just Résumés

    At This Time... we’re stepping into the brilliant, intentional world of When We Gather—a consulting practice led by Dr. LeAnna Majors and Chinedu Udeh that’s changing how Black women lead, rest, and reclaim purpose at work. In this first-ever three-person pod, we dig into why their cohort model is essential, how it helps leaders stop second-guessing themselves, and what collective liberation actually looks like at Google, nonprofits, or anywhere else. Plus: what future cohorts might look like—and why they're just getting started. Join their latest cohort today! Register here. And follow them on LinkedIn here.

  32. 28

    Ron Rapatalo on Surviving the Ed Jobs Crunch and Staying Human in Hiring

    At This Time... Ron Rapatalo pulls no punches about today’s brutal job market in K–12 ed and nonprofits. He breaks down why roles feel scarce (spoiler: remote + flexible = hypercompetitive), how AI is both a gift and a gamble, and why “just starting your own search firm” isn’t the silver bullet you think it is. From redefining candidate experience to surviving as a multi-hyphenate, Ron brings sharp takes, real talk, and a reminder that the human touch still matters—even if your ATS thinks otherwise. Want more of Ron? Check out his podcast RONderings And his book called Leverage

  33. 27

    Richard Leong on Landing a Job at Google

    At This Time... Richard Leong just landed a role at Google, and he's here to spill the (well-structured, thoughtfully prepared) tea. From prepping with ChatGPT to navigating Google's surprisingly human interview process, Richard shares how he stayed authentic while chasing one of tech’s most coveted roles. Plus: why he's voluntarily commuting more than required, and how he's using LinkedIn to pay it forward with insight and honesty. If you're dreaming of Google, don’t miss this one. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Richard Leong; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  34. 26

    Stephanie Yesil on How Teachers Can Reinvent Their Careers — Without Starting Over

    At This Time … ever wondered what happens when a fifth-grade math and science teacher swaps lesson plans for LinkedIn strategy? Stephanie Yesil takes us on her unexpected journey from the classroom to corporate, then to entrepreneurship—where she now helps educators pivot into new careers. From decoding job descriptions to translating "teacher speak" into corporate lingo, Stephanie spills the secrets to career shifts without going back to school. Plus, she dishes on why EdTech hiring is shifting fast—and where teachers should actually be looking for their next move. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Stephanie Yesil; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  35. 25

    David Radcliff on Remote Work, Real Equity, and the Disability Double Standard

    At This Time ... David Radcliff reminds us that “back to the office” often means “back to exclusion.” In this wide-ranging conversation, the writer and advocate unpacks how COVID temporarily gave everyone the accommodations disabled folks had long fought for—only to see them rolled back. He shares insights on ableism in hiring, the myth of the “culture fit,” and why real inclusivity means rethinking everything from mentorship to job design. Also, turns out Columbo > Poker Face. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: David Radcliff; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  36. 24

    Josh Czupryk on The Secret Job Market, Resume Red Flags, and Why He'll Never Charge You to Find Work

    At This Time … we’re pulling back the curtain on the actual job market in education. Josh Czupryk—aka the “Jobs Blast Guy”—shares how a favor for friends turned into the K-12 job list everyone’s talking about. From building a hand-coded spreadsheet to serving over 12,000 subscribers, Josh reveals the real barriers to equitable hiring, why your resume probably needs an overhaul, and how AI can be your best interview coach. Oh, and he’s never charged a dime for access. Click play—you might just land your dream role. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Josh Czupryk; add him on LinkedIn; sign up at: https://www.k12jobsblast.org/ CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  37. 23

    Leandro Otero on Why Being Real Beats Being Perfect

    At This Time... we go behind the hiring curtain with Leandro Otero, who's interviewed over 10,000 candidates and still has stories to tell. From placing teachers at Teach For America to hiring at Spotify, Leandro shares real talk on what makes a candidate stand out (hint: it’s not your resume font). He dishes on how to get noticed without cold-spamming recruiters, why "fake it till you make it" has limits, and the unexpected power of showing up for others without expecting a return. If you're job-hunting or just career-curious, this episode is your cheat code. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Leandro Otero; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast  

  38. 22

    Annie Miner on Paying People Well—Without the Money

    At This Time, we sit down with Annie Miner, long time People Ops pro and advocate for making the hard job of teaching a little easier. From creative compensation strategies to concierge-style HR support, Annie unpacks how her team keeps talent thriving even when budgets are tight. We talk credentialing, resume gems, the emotional pitfalls of AI in the workplace, and why the human touch still matters most. Oh—and if you want to work with her? Better be ready to feel appreciated. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Annie Miner; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  39. 21

    Melanie Aldridge on Cracking the Code to Careers at Lakeshore

    At This Time ... if you're dreaming of joining Lakeshore Learning Company, it's not just about timing—it's about staying plugged in. Melanie Aldridge, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, spills the tea on why checking lakeshorecareers.com weekly and following recruiter posts on LinkedIn could be your golden ticket to a great job post-teaching. Whether you're an educator curious about corporate life or just job-hunting savvy, this episode shows you how to keep your radar sharp and your next move smarter. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Melanie Aldridge; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  40. 20

    Oscar Barajas on Supporting Young Talent Through Their First Big Interview

    At This Time ... we’re diving into the world of high-stakes hiring with Oscar Barajas, Director of Talent and Partnerships at Teach for America Los Angeles. Oscar shares what it’s like to help hundreds of aspiring educators—many landing their very first job—get classroom-ready. From coaching nervous candidates through demo lessons to spotting generational shifts in how people communicate, this episode’s full of real talk on teacher prep, growth mindsets, and finding your "teacher voice." If you’ve ever considered teaching or want to know what it takes to hire for impact, this one’s for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Oscar Barajas; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  41. 19

    Asha Castleberry-Hernandez on Cracking Into National Security

    At This Time... we’re stepping into the high-stakes world of national security with strategist and 20-year veteran Asha Castleberry-Hernandez. From ROTC to the State Department to think tanks and startups, Asha breaks down the many on-ramps into this elusive field—including how educators and STEM pros can pivot in. Want in on defense contracts, military cybersecurity gigs, or behind-the-scenes job boards? This episode’s your classified briefing. Hosts: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Asha Castleberry-Hernandez; IG / ashacastleberry CONNECT Instagram:  / AtThisTimePodcast

  42. 18

    Jake Sohn on Culture Fit, Cold Outreach, and Why You Should Always Negotiate

    Eric reconnects with recruiter Jake Sohn to talk shop on what’s working—and what needs to go—in the world of hiring. From the myth of “culture fit” to the power of a well-placed thank-you note, Jake shares smart tips for both recruiters and candidates navigating today’s weird job market. They also cover why negotiation is non-negotiable and how LinkedIn can actually work in your favor. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Jake Sohn; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  43. 17

    William Wong on Becoming the Accidental LinkedIn's K-12 Jobs Guy

    Eric chats with longtime friend and educator Will Wong, whose weekly LinkedIn CA K-12 senior executive jobs list job has become a must-read for thousands. What started as a way to give back has turned into a full-on talent ecosystem—connecting educators with roles and shaping how people think about leadership in public schools. They explore trends in executive turnover, the power of community, and why more educators should consider stepping into district leadership. Plus, Will shares how he uses LinkedIn without losing his soul to the algorithm. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: William Wong; add him on LinkedIn at "Mr. Will Wong" CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  44. 16

    Kyle Gracey on Why Boards Can't Wing It When Hiring the Boss

    At This Time, we’re diving into the high-stakes world of nonprofit leadership hires. Kyle Gracey joins the show to share why boards need more than good intentions when recruiting executive directors—and why vibes don’t count as a hiring process. From micromanagement traps to onboarding strategies that actually work, this episode is packed with practical, witty wisdom for board members who want to get it right. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Kyle Gracey; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  45. 15

    Arturo Natella on Why the Recruitment Process is Broken

    At This Time, Eric talks with Arturo Natella, a recruiting expert who’s flipped the script on hiring by focusing on outcomes, not guesswork. Arturo breaks down why copy-paste job descriptions and vague interviews lead to bad hires—and how to fix them. They dive into performance-based hiring, reference check red flags, and what candidates should look for to build real career mobility. Whether you're hiring or job hunting, this one’s full of tough love and tactical gems. Check out his company Amaru. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Arturo Natella; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  46. 14

    Anika Manzoor on Burnout, Mock Interviews, & the Leadership Break We All Deserve

    At This Time, Eric talks with Anika Manzoor, a nonprofit leader-turned-job-seeker who's navigating the current job market with candor, creativity, and a well-worn Google Doc. They dig into the emotional toll of job hunting, how to lean on your network, and why stepping away from leadership might be the power move. From ChatGPT-powered prep to mock interviews that actually work, Anika shares real talk for anyone stuck in the search.  Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Anika Manzoor; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  47. 13

    Yasi Agah on Finding a Job in a Wild Market

    On this episode of At This Time, Eric sits down with Yasi Agah to flip the script — diving into what it really feels like to be the candidate in today’s wild job market. From solo ferry rides in New York City to ChatGPT-crafted cover letters, Yasi shares her strategies for staying sane and standing out. They explore how to structure your job hunt like a full-time gig, the rise of performance tasks in interviews, and creative ways to turn cold applications warm. If you've ever felt like job searching is a second job (without benefits), this one's for you. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Yasi Agah; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  48. 12

    Michael Castaneda on Why Your Resume Format is Probably Fine

    At this time, we're talking with Michael Castaneda, Senior Business Partner for Talent Acquisition at Chandon, a winery in Napa. After 8 years in the recruitment world, Michael knows plenty about what a good resume is and isn't, how to manage tough interviews, and when to negotiate an offer. Come for the insight and stay for the sparking wine recommendations. Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Michael Castaneda; add him on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  49. 11

    Alex Horowitz on Meeting the AI Moment in Talent | At This Time Podcast

    Alex Horowitz on Meeting the AI Moment in Talent | At This Time Podcast At this time, we're talking with Alex Horowitz, Chief Program Officer at AI for Equity Recruiter, on all the AI things filling up your newsfeed. He trains and support talent leaders who work in school systems on adoption best practices. He's learned a ton and if you work in recruitment in any profession, check out his thoughts and wonderings.  Host: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Alex Horowitz; find at https://ai-for-equity.org/ CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

  50. 10

    Taylor Bostock on How Watching Million Dollar Listing Can Help You Ace a Job Interview

    At this time, we're talking with Taylor Bostock, Principal at Edgility, on the differences between recruiting as a solo contractor vs working with search firm. Also, don't miss her thoughts on acing your interview and why everyone needs a pep talk when job hunting.   Hosts: Eric DeSobe; IG: / edesobe Guest: Taylor Bostock; add her on LinkedIn CONNECT Instagram: / AtThisTimePodcast

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Recruiting is like running a marathon where the route keeps changing, the finish line moves, and someone tells you halfway through, “Actually, we’ve decided it’s a pie eating contest now” At This Time takes you inside the wild world of hiring, with stories from recruiters and job seekers navigating the madness. Join Eric as he unpacks ghosting candidates, surprise curveballs, and the occasional perfect fit. Whether you’re chasing talent or your next job, this podcast delivers humor, insights, and all the real talk you didn’t know you needed.

HOSTED BY

edesobe

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