Career Diaries with Briana Okyere

What your attachment style says about you, and why your cortisol might be running the whole show.Episode SummaryEpisode 8 kicks off with a couple of quick follow-ups — turns out there are seven sisters planning the baby shower (not six), and Captain Bill, Brie's father-in-law, tuned in and wants to know if magnesium works for guys too. Spoiler: it does.Then Bri and Cambria get into something that's been consuming their group chat: the Summer House reunion and the Ciara situation. Bri, who grew up half black in primarily white spaces, brings a personal and nuanced lens to what it means to be the only black person in the room — how you're perceived, how you're allowed to act, and what it feels like to watch that play out on a national stage. It's one of the more real and thoughtful conversations they've had on the pod.From there, Bri takes the wheel with attachment styles — the psychology of how we connect, pull away, or quietly spiral in our close relationships. She runs Cambria through a five-question quiz (secure, anxious, or avoidant?), and the results spark a genuinely honest conversation about therapy, past relationships, and why most people are actually a blend of all three.Then Cambria breaks down cortisol — what it actually is, why it's not the villain TikTok makes it out to be, and what chronic stress is really doing to your body and your relationships. From morning routines to fake urgency to magnesium, it's a practical and surprisingly reassuring look at why your nervous system is just trying to keep you alive.What We CoverSeven sisters, not six — and a quick shoutout to Captain BillMagnesium: yes, it works for men tooThe Summer House reunion, the Ciara situation, and what it means to be the only black person in a white spaceAttachment styles 101: secure, anxious, and avoidantThe five-question attachment style quiz (take it yourself!)Why most people are a blend — and why that changes depending on the relationshipHow therapy can move you from anxious to avoidant to secureWhat cortisol actually is and why it's not the enemyChronic cortisol vs. acute cortisol — and what modern life is doing to bothHow to fix your morning to fix your cortisol curveReducing fake urgency: notifications, email, and the Instagram problemWhy sleep is your biggest lever for stressSafety signals: laughing, nature, slow mornings, and doing nothing without guiltTimestamps00:00 – Intro, seven sisters correction, and Captain Bill's magnesium question02:30 – Summer House, Ciara, and being the only black person in white spaces10:15 – Wrapping the Bravo talk and transitioning to attachment styles11:45 – What are attachment styles? Secure, anxious, and avoidant explained13:20 – The five-question attachment style quiz20:10 – Tallying results and what they actually mean24:00 – Cortisol 101: what it is and why it exists26:30 – What happens when cortisol stays chronically high28:45 – How to lower your cortisol: morning routines, walks, and reducing fake urgency32:00 – Sleep, magnesium, and safety signals34:10 – The real takeaway: regulate your nervous system first

Bri's pregnant! The SILs break down pregnancy icks, and how best to support your pregnant family members & friends.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sister-in-Law, Bri finally shares the news she's been keeping since her honeymoon — she's pregnant with a baby boy! She and Cambria walk through the whole story: the fertility planning, the empty pregnancy test box in Thailand, the 7-Eleven run on a scooter, and the faint second line that confirmed everything on the last day of the trip. Now 16 weeks in and firmly in her second trimester, Bri gets real about what the first trimester actually felt like — the all-day nausea, the exhaustion, the Taco Bell diet, and the mental toll of feeling unproductive for months.From there, the conversation shifts into something more practical and deeply thoughtful: what does real support look like for a new mom? Bri opens up about being bad at asking for help, and together she and Cambria dream up a postpartum binder — a room-by-room guide for anyone coming to help so Bri doesn't have to explain where the dish soap is at 3am. They also cover the baby shower icks (no gift opening, no "Mama" merch, please), how they're already planning a postpartum Airbnb setup for the village, and the name they're 99% locked in on — Cade — which has more meaning behind it than they expected.What We CoverThe honeymoon pregnancy discovery story — fertility planning, a stolen test, and a Thai 7-ElevenWhat the first trimester actually felt like (hint: worse than you think)The mental health toll of feeling sick and unproductive for monthsWhat practical support really looks like vs. "let me know what you need"The postpartum binder idea — and Cambria's a la carte menu add-onBaby shower icks: gift opening, "Mama" everything, and the signed book situationThe postpartum Airbnb plan for the villageBelly touching etiquette, appointments, and the first ultrasound momentThe baby name: Cade — and the unexpected Mortal Kombat connectionHow pregnancy has surprisingly made Bri… calmer?Timestamps00:00 – Bri's big announcement: she's pregnant!02:14 – The honeymoon discovery story and the Thailand 7-Eleven run06:30 – Finding out it's a boy and what's surprised her most09:45 – What the first trimester was really like14:20 – What Bri actually needs: practical help over emotional check-ins18:05 – The postpartum binder idea and Cam's menu concept23:30 – Baby shower icks and the gift opening debate29:00 – The postpartum Airbnb plan and building the village33:15 – Belly touching, appointments, and the first heartbeat ultrasound38:40 – The name: Cade, Mortal Kombat, and a meaningful connection42:00 – Wrapping up and how to tell them what you want more of on the pod

Episode 6: How to Stop Procrastinating & Speak to Your Most Empowered SelfHow we talk to the people we love, why we procrastinate, and what our habits might really be telling us.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sister-in-Law, Bri introduces the idea of “speaking to the most empowered version” of someone through the lens of transactional analysis. She breaks down how people often communicate from one of three ego states: parent, child, or adult, and explains why the healthiest conversations happen when we speak to each other’s adult, most grounded selves. Together, Bri and Cambria reflect on how easy it is to fall into old family dynamics, defensive patterns, and judgmental language, and why it matters to communicate in ways that invite respect, clarity, and growth.Later, Cambria dives into procrastination and the psychology behind why we avoid the things that matter most. Rather than chalking it up to laziness or poor time management, she explains how procrastination is often rooted in emotional regulation, with fear, perfectionism, boredom, uncertainty, overwhelm, and even burnout playing a bigger role than most people realize.It’s part relationship insight, part productivity reset, and a reminder that whether you’re talking to someone else or to yourself, the goal is the same: lead with compassion, clarity, and the version of yourself that’s most capable of moving forward.What We CoverReading before bed and simple habits that improve sleepBook recs and current reading obsessionsThe psychology of communication: parent, child, and adult ego statesHow to speak to the most empowered version of someoneWhy communication patterns shape conflict in relationshipsWhy procrastination is about emotional regulation, not lazinessThe five emotional drivers of procrastinationHow to tell the difference between burnout and avoidanceSimple tools to get unstuck (shrinking the task, the 10-minute rule)Why self-talk and shame keep you stuck longerTimestamps00:00 – Intro, exhaustion, and reading before bed05:21 – Speaking to the most empowered version of someone06:44 – Parent, child, and adult communication styles09:08 – How these patterns affect relationships12:58 – Why procrastination is really about emotion, not laziness17:01 – What your brain is doing when you procrastinate22:46 – Burnout vs. procrastination24:07 – Tools to get unstuck and move forward

Episode 5: Chill The F*** OutSleep routines, stress spirals, and the advice we’d give our younger selves.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sister-in-Law, Bri and Cambria talk about something everyone seems to be struggling with lately: stress and sleep. After a stretch of nonstop travel and busy schedules, the two unpack the routines, supplements, and habits that actually help them wind down and get better rest.They share practical tips for building a realistic nighttime routine, managing anxiety before bed, and calming your nervous system when your brain won’t shut off.Later in the conversation, they shift gears and reflect on the advice they wish they could give their younger selves. From confidence and therapy to friendships, finances, and career identity, Bri and Cambria share honest reflections on what mattered most at 25 and what they would do differently at 30.It’s part sleep toolkit, part life reflection, and a reminder that sometimes the best advice is simply to chill the f*** out.What We CoverBedtime routines that actually help improve sleepSupplements and habits that support better restHow stress and anxiety impact sleep qualitySimple ways to calm your nervous system before bedJournaling, “brain rot” TV, and other ways to stop a stress spiralThe importance of movement and daily habits for deeper sleepAdvice Bri and Cambria would give their 25-year-old selvesConfidence, therapy, and learning to stop being so hard on yourselfFinancial planning and student loan realities in your 30sWhy your career shouldn’t define your entire identityTimestamps00:00 – Intro and travel exhaustion after weeks on the road02:05 – Supplements, skincare routines, and staying consistent while traveling03:30 – Cambria’s bedtime routine for better sleep05:20 – Wind-down schedules, hydration, and not eating before bed07:00 – Limiting screens and building a realistic nighttime routine08:50 – Magnesium, supplements, and simple sleep hacks09:00 – Sleep trackers and learning what affects your rest10:15 – Stress before big work moments and anxiety before bed10:45 – Journaling and talking through problems to calm your mind11:50 – “Brain-rot” TV and breaking the stress spiral12:20 – Shocking the nervous system to stop anxiety loops13:20 – Red light lamps, ice therapy, and calming the body14:15 – Bonus financial hack: splitting mortgage payments16:20 – Advice we’d give our 25-year-old selves17:10 – Frontal lobe development and giving yourself grace17:30 – Why friendships in your 20s are sacred19:40 – Cambria on self-confidence and wishing she started therapy earlier22:10 – How confidence affects every area of life23:10 – Advice for our 30-year-old selves23:40 – Student loans, saving money, and financial planning earlier27:40 – Why your career shouldn’t define your identity29:40 – Final takeaway: relax a little and chill the f*** out

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sister-in-Law, Bri and Cambria tackle two very different — but deeply connected — conversations.First, Bri shares her “10 Commandments of the Moment,” a fiery, grounded reset for women who feel overwhelmed, overstimulated, and exhausted from always being the bigger person. It’s about reclaiming power, telling the truth, and refusing to shrink.Then Cambria shifts into the science of happiness; breaking down the four key neurochemicals that influence how we feel: dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. She explains how chronic stress suppresses these chemicals, why modern life overwhelms our biology, and what we can practically do every day to support our brains.It’s part empowerment manifesto, part neuroscience cheat sheet.Part One: Bri’s 10 Commandments of the MomentA response to overwhelm, information overload, and the emotional weight many women are carrying.Core themes:No more being the bigger personStop absorbing everyone else’s emotionsTell the truth, even if it’s uncomfortableChannel anger into clarityProtect your energyReclaim your personal powerStop shrinking to make others comfortableOwn your voiceCreate boundaries without apologyFocus on what you can actually controlThis section is less about being “nice” and more about being honest.Part Two: The Science of HappyCambria breaks down the four primary “happy chemicals” in the brain and how to work with them instead of against them.DopamineThe motivation and reward chemical.Great for drive — dangerous when overstimulated.SerotoninThe mood stabilizer.Influenced by sunlight, movement, confidence, and status.OxytocinThe connection chemical.Built through touch, eye contact, deep conversations, rituals, and feeling emotionally seen.EndorphinsThe pain relief and stress buffer chemical.Nature’s Advil. Helps you tolerate life’s intensity.She also explains:How cortisol (stress) blocks happy chemicalsWhy chronic stress exhausts your systemWhy modern life overwhelms our biologyWhy reducing stress must come before increasing happinessPractical Tools SharedOxytocin boosters:20-second hugsDeep conversationsEye contactLaughing with friendsPhysical touchComplimentsGroup ritualsPetting animalsActs of kindnessFeeling emotionally seenEndorphin boosters:Exercise that makes you sweatLaughing hardDancingCold exposureSpicy foodsCryingSinging loudlySex or orgasmAccomplishing hard thingsWatching something genuinely funnyIncludes a quick self-assessment quiz to determine whether you’re supported, low, or depleted.Timestamps00:00 – Thailand recap and life updates06:00 – The episode overview: rage + science09:00 – Bri’s 10 Commandments of the Moment25:00 – Why modern life overwhelms our biology32:00 – The four happy chemicals explained45:00 – Oxytocin and connection practices55:00 – Endorphins, stress, and the quiz1:05:00 – Practical everyday happiness boosters

In this episode of Sister-in-Law, Bri and Cambria dive into real-life money hacks that have transformed Cambria’s financial trajectory over the last decade.From hiring a financial advisor in Cambria's 20s (yes, even before she felt “rich enough”) to unlocking the power of backdoor Roth IRAs, ESPPs, and 401k loan strategies — this conversation breaks down financial concepts in a way that’s actually digestible.They also tackle the gender gap in financial literacy, why women need to own their money stories, and how financial confidence equals freedom, options, and peace of mind.If money conversations have ever felt intimidating, this episode will leave you empowered instead.In this episode, we cover:Why hiring a financial advisor earlier than you think can change everythingThe real difference between Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and Backdoor Roth IRAsWhy Roth IRAs are a non-negotiable wealth-building toolHow ESPPs (Employee Stock Purchase Plans) can function like a built-in raiseThe underrated 401k loan strategy for home buyingWhy women must stay financially literate — even in partnershipsMoney as freedom, not just numbersTimestamps:00:00 – Stress levels, cortisol, and the health-girl era07:30 – Today’s topic: money hacks that aren’t boring10:00 – Hack #1: Hiring a financial advisor in your 20s17:30 – How advisors charge & why it’s worth it22:00 – Hack #2: Roth IRAs, Backdoor Roths & why they matter30:00 – The $7,000 → $700,000 example (compound growth explained simply)36:00 – Hack #3: ESPPs (aka secret corporate raise)43:00 – Hack #4: Borrowing from your 401k to buy a home52:00 – The gender gap in financial literacy57:00 – “Mom, I am a rich man.”Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe, it would mean the world to us!

In this episode of “Sister-in-Law,” we dive into cycle mapping and what it looks like to understand your menstrual cycle beyond just “that time of the month.” We talk about the four phases of the cycle, how energy, focus, and emotions shift throughout the month, and how cycle mapping can inform everything from work and workouts to communication and self-care.We also unpack how learning your cycle can help you plan more intentionally, advocate for yourself, and feel more in control of your body — especially in a world that expects the same output every single day.Cycle Mapping PresentationKey Takeaways:00:00 Introduction and why we wanted to talk about cycle mapping.03:05 What cycle mapping is and why it’s more than just tracking your period.06:18 The four phases of the menstrual cycle and what’s happening hormonally.09:42 How energy, creativity, and focus change across your cycle.13:27 Planning work, meetings, and life around your cycle (when possible).17:10 Cycle mapping for exercise, rest, and self-care.20:58 Emotional patterns, communication, and giving yourself grace.24:35 Tools, apps, and methods for tracking your cycle.28:10 How cycle awareness can support long-term health and confidence.31:02 Final thoughts on listening to your body and working with it, not against it.Thanks for listening to “Sister-in-Law.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CycleMapping #Women’sHealth #HormoneHealth #SisterInLawPodcast #WomenSupportingWomen

In this inaugural episode of “Sister-in-Law,” we introduce ourselves and share why we decided to start this podcast. We talk about our unique bond as sisters-in-law, our differences and similarities, and what you can expect from future episodes. We’ll be covering finance, career, fashion, women’s health, and everything in between as we navigate life — the good, the messy, the meaningful, and all the cringeworthy moments.Key Takeaways:00:00 Introduction.03:37 Discussing work, finances, and planning for the future.06:01 Showing your knowledge and skillset is critically important.09:22 Timing job interviews around your menstrual cycle can help.11:02 Asking for promotions early in your career matters.16:59 Fall fashion as a fun, confident way to express yourself.23:24 Conquering life admin feels like cleaning your brain.26:36 Stop self-diagnosing online and go to the doctor.29:46 Only date if it significantly uplevels your life.31:54 Building wealth in both money and relationships matters.Thanks for listening to “Sister-in-Law.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#WomenInTech #WomenSupportingWomen #SisterInLawPodcast

Not everyone gets lucky enough to have the best sister-in-law ever — someone you can laugh with, vent to, and shamelessly overshare with. That’s where we come in. We’re Briana and Cambria Steel, two women in tech, and if it wasn't obvious, sisters-in-law. We may have been brought together by a man, but we sure as hell aren’t reliant on one. Think of us as your coven as we navigate life — the good, the messy, the meaningful, and all the cringe-worthy moments in between.Through honest conversations, we’ll share our different perspectives, learn and grow right alongside you, and dive into the topics that matter most — from finance and career to fashion, women’s health, and everything in between. At the heart of it, this is about expanding our knowledge, finding connection, and tackling the chaos of life while laughing the whole way through.

LeTísha Shaw, former Senior Director of Product Marketing and Head of E-Commerce at UserTesting, joins me to talk about navigating career pivots with creativity and courage. From engineering to marketing, LeTísha shares how building transferable skills, embracing ambiguity and seeking mentorship helped her design a career fueled by curiosity and action.Key Takeaways:(02:20) Diverse career paths can blend technical and creative skills.(05:45) Career pivots often happen through small, cumulative moments.(07:15) Experimentation and persistence are crucial for successful transitions.(09:45) Building new skills through projects and volunteering opens doors.(11:10) Start doing the work you want, even unofficially.(14:18) Untapped fields offer space for innovation and growth.(16:00) Lifelong learning keeps work engaging and dynamic.(16:45) Don’t wait for permission — empower yourself to act.(17:49) Mentors reflect strengths and encourage authentic leadership.Resources Mentioned:LeTísha Shawhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/letishashaw/UserTesting | LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/usertesting-com/UserTesting | Websitehttps://www.usertesting.com/#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

Dr. Hanna Tannenbaum, Psychological Associate at Live Better Psychotherapy, joins me in exploring the challenges and rewards of career changes, balancing financial and personal fulfillment, and strategies for handling difficult personalities in professional environments. She also shares her dynamic career path, from studying fine art and pre-med to working in private practices specializing in adults, neurodiverse children and personality disorders.Key Takeaways:(01:44) Dr. Tannenbaum’s work spans adults, neurodiverse children and emerging tech consulting.(06:45) Working at a homeless shelter inspired her to pursue psychology.(07:40) Therapy work allows deeper engagement with trauma, aligning with her values.(09:26) Pursuing a PsyD involved sacrifices but provided essential training.(13:01) Narcissism often stems from early childhood experiences.(15:32) Workplace strategies to deal with narcissists include setting boundaries and seeking support.(19:46) Career decisions should be made in a regulated emotional state.(22:19) Identifying workplace dissatisfaction requires examining external stressors.Resources Mentioned:Dr. Hanna Tannenbaum -https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanna-tannenbaum-260489151/Nancy McWilliams on narcissism -https://nancymcwilliams.com/Live Better Psychotherapy -https://livebetterpsych.com/Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

In this episode, Amy Hee Kim, Executive Director of EnCorps, STEM Educator Programs, explores the intersection of life purpose and professional career. She discusses nonprofit work, tackling burnout, fulfillment and the importance of mission alignment. She describes EnCorps’ work helping STEM professionals become teachers, particularly in under-resourced communities. She also gives advice for people looking to shift careers into the nonprofit sector.Key Takeaways:(02:13) Amy’s mission at EnCorps is to bring STEM professionals into education.(03:32) Nonprofit success metrics focus on measurable impact.(07:09) Timeline realities of research pushed Amy toward immediate impact.(10:24) Importance of mission alignment in maintaining resilience.(11:46) Amy reflects on her impact through fellows and teachers.(14:59) Believe in students’ potential, regardless of background.(16:00) Financial and alignment considerations to shift careers to teaching or nonprofit. (17:58) Test your interest through volunteer work before transitioning careers.(19:25) Nonprofits are looking for quantifiable skills.Resources Mentioned:Amy Hee Kim -https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-hee-kim-b6507b7/EnCorps -https://www.linkedin.com/company/encorps-stem-teachers/Technovation -https://www.technovation.org/EnCorps -https://encorps.org/Girl Scouts of the USA - STEM Programs -https://www.girlscouts.org/en/activities-for-girls/for-every-girl/stem-activities-science-technology-engineering-math.htmlUniversity of Illinois -https://illinois.edu/University of Chicago Physical Chemistry Department -https://chemistry.uchicago.edu/research/physical-chemistryKiva -https://www.kiva.org/#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

Head of Inbound Marketing at Tonkean, Daniel Moore, joins me on this episode. We discuss his journey from a content writer to a marketing leader, the importance of patience in writing and understanding audience needs. Daniel also shares his experience in securing writing gigs and the significance of genuine knowledge in crafting impactful content.Key Takeaways:(03:34) Relocation of the Oakland A's highlights issues in the sports industry.(06:17) Patience and stepping away from work offer valuable perspective.(07:38) Persistence and good stories are key to securing writing gigs.(14:32) Bridging the gap between technical and non-technical aspects in marketing.(16:44) Finding and learning from technical experts enhances your work.(17:05) Understanding audience problems is crucial for providing tangible value.(18:15) Readers can quickly detect a lack of genuine understanding.(19:25) You’ve got to just make the jump and do it.Resources Mentioned:Tonkean -https://www.linkedin.com/company/tonkean/Daniel Moore -https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-h-moore/Fast Company -https://www.fastcompany.com/Crunchbase -https://www.crunchbase.com/Business Insider -https://www.businessinsider.com/The Ringer -https://www.theringer.com/The Atlantic -https://www.theatlantic.com/Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

Amy Kawahara joins me to share insights from her role as Senior Producer at Expedia Group. In this episode, Amy delves into the intricacies of producing high-caliber commercials, her experiences working with top-tier talent and the importance of understanding every facet of your job.Key Takeaways:(00:00) Amy discusses her work with the NBA and talents like Nikola Jokić and Jimmy Butler.(03:14) Producing is 90% problem-solving and 10% babysitting; Amy explains the day-to-day responsibilities.(05:07) Amy reflects on her time producing live news, emphasizing the fast-paced nature of the industry.(06:11) She shares her experience working on an iPhone spot with The Rock.(09:30) Amy talks about her preference for working behind the camera and how it suits her skill set.(11:23) The challenge of burnout in production and the importance of taking breaks.(13:22) The value of learning every aspect of your job to better communicate and collaborate with team members.(15:25) Inspiration can come from anywhere — movies, TV shows and even museum visits.(19:06) Amy emphasizes the importance of everyone being a good fit on her teams.Resources Mentioned:Amy Kawahara -https://www.linkedin.com/in/amykawahara/Expedia Group | LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/expedia/Expedia Group | Website -https://www.expediagroup.com/Central European University Press -https://ceupress.com/NBA -https://www.nba.com/iPhone -https://www.apple.com/iphone/The Rock -https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0425005/Nikola Jokić -https://www.nba.com/player/203999/nikola-jokic/bioJimmy Butler -https://www.nba.com/player/202710/jimmy-butler/bioThanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

In this episode, I welcome Kareem Abulaban of Kiaro, a seasoned Creative Director. Join us as we delve into the nuances of creative careers and how to navigate the vast opportunities beyond the conventional paths.Key Takeaways:(03:32) Kiaro specializes in video and motion graphics across the US.(06:35) Kareem shares the fulfillment he finds in his creative work.(08:15) The transition from tech to video production was inspired by corporate changes.(14:32) Kareem advocates starting in corporate video to build diverse skills.(17:15) Don’t restrict client work to one niche for creative growth.(20:28) Balancing creativity with client expectations and objectives.(23:26) Advice for new professionals in the video and production industry.Resources Mentioned:Kareem Abulaban -https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemabulaban/Kiaro | LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/kiaro-tv/Kiaro | Website -https://www.kiaro.tv/Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

On this episode, I'm joined by Merry Carole Powers, Creative Director for Sustainability, Purpose and DEI at Deloitte and author of "The Great Human Rebrand." Merry Carole shares her journey from creative writing to leading creative initiatives at a global consultancy, and we dive deep into the themes of her book which challenges us to rethink how we approach our careers and lives.Key Takeaways:(04:09) Mastery of job-specific skills and applying personal abilities professionally are crucial for career success.(07:40) A pivotal moment at Ronald McDonald House reshapes Merry Carole's perspective on the power of marketing and creativity.(09:55) Finding purpose in your career by aligning personal strengths and values with professional roles.(12:31) Merry’s book explores how societal labels manipulate behavior and advocates for a deeper understanding and deconstruction of these labels to reveal our true individuality and humanity.(16:24) The aim of Merry Carole’s book is to empower individuals to see beyond societal labels.(17:37) Embracing your innate skills and individuality can guide your career path more effectively than conforming to traditional job roles and descriptions.(21:36) Leadership versus management and the importance of developing human diversity and fostering team growth.Resources Mentioned:Merry Carole Powers - https://www.linkedin.com/in/merry-carole-powers-92849a8/Deloitte - https://www.linkedin.com/company/deloitte/"The Great Human Rebrand" by Merry Carole Powers - https://www.amazon.com/Great-Human-Rebrand-Labels-Humanity-ebook/dp/B0CJYNNQ28#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace #purposedrivencareer

In this episode, George Kramb, Co-Founder and CEO of PatientPartner joins me to share his unique career journey. He successfully transitioned from medical device sales to launching a startup aimed at connecting patients for better healthcare experiences. His story is filled with inspirational tips and practical advice for anyone looking to make a significant career shift or start their own venture.Key Takeaways:(02:06) George’s unconventional path to becoming a founder and his motivation for starting PatientPartner.(06:03) Transitioning from medical sales to entrepreneurship, sparked by personal experiences.(08:29) The origin story of PatientPartner, inspired by the need for patient connections in healthcare.(10:22) Accessible patient networks and creating a supportive platform for healthcare experiences are vital.(15:21) Parenting skills can prepare you for entrepreneurial challenges.(17:34) The development and funding journey of PatientPartner, including overcoming early-stage obstacles.(21:41) Launching a successful first product and securing significant investment.(26:57) Balancing a full-time job while building a startup and the value of using off-hours effectively.(29:22) The challenges of managing early-stage startup teams and making tough decisions.Resources mentioned:George Kramb -https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-kramb/PatientPartner -https://www.linkedin.com/company/patientpartner/Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

On this episode, I sit down with Roz Hajian, Performance Marketing Lead of Sleeper. Roz delves into her journey through the tech landscape, sharing the highs and lows of her career trajectory, and eventually landing her role at Sleeper.Key Takeaways:(00:53) An introduction to Roz and an overview of the current tech job landscape.(02:05) Roz's experience of being laid off and her introspective unemployment journey.(05:49) Roz’s role and responsibilities at Sleeper — managing ad spend and driving revenue.(09:11) Roz's career shift from accounting to performance marketing and her growth within Kabam.(14:54) The impact of remote work on career advancement and strategies to maintain visibility and engagement.(20:25) Overcoming social anxiety in the post-work-from-home era.(21:56) Moving into management roles in tech sales and advice on preparation and assessment for leadership.Resources Mentioned:Roz Hajian -https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozhajian/Sleeper | LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/sleeperhq/Sleeper Fantasy Sports App | Website -https://sleeper.com/#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

On this episode of Career Diaries, I have the pleasure of speaking with Cambria Steel, Senior Account Executive of Snap, Inc. and former Team Manager and Lead Client Partner at X (formerly Twitter). Cambria delves into her illustrious career in tech, sharing invaluable insights on networking, transitioning between roles, and the critical importance of mental health and work-life balance.Key Takeaways:(02:13) Cambria’s role at Snap, with a focus on the Apple business and the dynamic nature of ad sales on social platforms.(09:42) The significance of kindness and maintaining positive relationships throughout one's career, underscoring its impact on opportunities and personal growth.(17:28) A pivotal networking moment at a banking conference, highlighting the power of solidarity and support among women in professional settings.(26:15) Growing within the industry, from learning the ropes to handling major accounts like Apple —  the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.(33:10) Cambria’s approach to work-life balance — the value of personal well-being alongside professional ambition.(37:10) Tips for climbing the career ladder, the necessity of clear communication with managers and the pursuit of continuous learning and development.(39:18) The transition from sales to account management, diverse paths within the tech industry and encouraging professionals to pursue their interests.Resources Mentioned: Cambria Steel -https://www.linkedin.com/in/cambriasteel/Snap, Inc. | LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/snap-inc-co/Snap, Inc. | Website -https://snap.com/en-USSnapchat -https://apps.apple.com/us/app/snapchat/id447188370Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

On this episode of Career Diaries, I welcome Asha Aravindakshan, author of “Skills: The Common Denominator.” Asha shares her insights into navigating the complexities of career pivoting, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and leveraging transferable skills.Key Takeaways:(02:20) Asha’s background, education and early career.(02:45) The unexpected career start of an internship and the decision to pursue stability.(06:27) The concept of hindsight in career decisions and the value of reflecting on past choices and skill acquisition.(09:16) The importance of hard work in your 20s and its long-term benefits.(15:07) Asha’s strategic approach to identifying the right industry and role.(19:36) Building a personal brand and the role of authenticity in career progression.(24:12) Networking strategies that go beyond traditional methods.(29:04) Storytelling is a crucial skill in today’s job market.(31:33) Advice on the effectiveness of cold applying for jobs with a targeted approach.Resources Mentioned:Asha Aravindakshan -https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashaa12/“The Startup of You” by Reid Hoffman -https://www.startupofyou.com/OTTA -https://otta.com/Thanks for listening to the Career Diaries podcast with Briana Okyere. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. Email [email protected] to get your burning career questions answered on the podcast, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another conversation.#CareerSuccess #MillennialCareer #ProfessionalDevelopment #YoungProfessional #Workplace

Welcome to the Career Diaries podcast, with host Briana Okyere. Where we laugh and learn with industry experts, talk through the highs and lows of their career journey’s and unlock the secrets to career success in any field.If you’re a young professional seeking to pivot or advance in your career, then this is the show for you. Rest assured that you’re not alone in any challenges you may face — sharing our knowledge and our stories enables us all to thrive!