Work in Progress: Corporate Career Podcast

Layoffs happened and you’re still here. Now what?It’s an awkward place to be. You’re relieved… but also anxious, maybe even a little guilty?This week’s Work in Progress episode is for the ones left behind. We’re talking survivor’s guilt, role security, and how to prep for what’s next without burning out. Learn how to:Interpret the why behind your company’s layoffsQuietly recession-proof your resume, finances, and strategyTurn this moment of fear into future leverage

Layoffs are everywhere right now—from Big Tech to companies you thought were rock solid. And even if it hasn’t hit you yet, it could.If you’ve been laid off and you’re not sure what to do next, you’re not alone. In this episode of Work in Progress, we walk through three steps to help you get back on your feet—from navigating the emotional fallout, to getting your finances in order, to finding momentum again.

What happens when you speak up about harassment—and the team goes silent? In this episode, guest host Elsie Rodriguez joins CJ to talk about what it’s really like to be the only woman in a male-dominated workplace. From second-guessing yourself to being punished for standing up, this is the conversation that too many women are having quietly. We’re saying it out loud.Connect with us on social! Instagram: workinprogressthepodcastThreads: workinprogressthepodcastConnect with Elsie and Nothing But Love on Spotify, Apple or over on Instagram: nothingbutlov3_

Hobbies can super-charge your career. Guest co-host Yvonne Pearson joins CJ to show how museums, concerts and content creation translate into real corporate skills—discipline, delegation and data-driven marketing included.How can museum hopping, concert stalking, and content creation make you a sharper operator at work? In this episode of Work in Progress, guest co-host Yvonne Pearson (Coffee With Yvonne / Pink Dollhouse Marketing) joins CJ to unpack the hidden career ROI of their favorite “side-quests.” From podcasting workflows that streamline delegation to SZA’s pop-up lip-gloss launch that nails experiential marketing, we draw a straight line between play and professional payoff.We cover:Why hobbies build transferable skills—discipline, project management, creative resilience—and how to talk about them in performance reviews.The art-museum cheat code: using gallery walks to spark campaign ideas and inclusive storytelling.Concerts as masterclasses in brand experience (feat. Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s vegan beauty drop).Leveraging AI tools (ChatGPT, Riverside “magic clips”) to automate busywork and protect creative energy.Practical pushback tactics: discovery calls, marketing briefs, and killing misaligned “fun” ideas before they burn budget. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows, and hit follow for sharp takes on thriving inside corporate walls.

Flying solo, CJ Jennings-Hope unpacks why carefully-crafted relationships—not oversharing—fast-track your promotions. She introduces the Cup-of-Sugar Rule for knowing when a coworker bond is strong enough to swap favors, then shares a two-topic conversation hack that lets even introverts build strategic visibility without spilling their life story.Stick around for a special announcement on the new formats coming to Work in Progress—and how they’ll help you thrive at work even faster.

You finally land a meeting to pitch your big idea—and watch faces glaze over faster than a Teams outage. Turns out the idea isn’t the problem; the delivery is.In this episode of Work in Progress, Courtney Jennings-Hope and co-host Larone Ellison break down corporate storytelling that actually moves the room:Hook → Context → Ask: the three-beat formula that keeps busy execs listening.“Pre-comms”: drop links and background before the meeting so your pitch can stay crisp.Brevity without buzzwords: why shorter sentences = bigger influence.Stop winging it: record yourself, trim the fluff, and own the pause when nerves hit.Listen for the real-world examples (and mishaps) that prove facts alone don’t sell—stories do. When the meeting ends, you’ll know exactly how to frame ideas, set the scene, and close the deal.Follow the podcast at @workinprogressthepodcast https://www.instagram.com/WorkinprogressthepodcastFollow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

We’re chasing six figures—but at what cost? In this episode, Larone and CJ talk through the myth and the math of landing a six-figure job: from resume rewrites and interview ghosting to career pivots and office red flags. Expect stories, strategy, and spicy commentary on capitalism, ChatGPT, and the “gladiator sport” of career progression. Follow the podcast at @workinprogressthepodcast Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠👀 Topics coveredWhat actually counts as a “six-figure skill”Why marketing gets a bad repHow to translate soft skills into business valueThe real reason you’re not getting callbacksTap in and take notes. Your salary will thank you.

Think you’re great at group projects because you get your work done on time? That might not be the flex you think it is.In this episode, CJ and Larone break down what really makes someone a strong team player—and why doing your part isn’t always enough. From ghosting your project tracker to hiding updates out of fear or perfectionism, they cover the small habits that quietly derail teamwork (and your reputation).Whether you’re neurodivergent, naturally independent, or just burned out on bad collaborators, this episode gives you the real-world tools to show up better in group settings—without becoming the office doormat.We cover:What being a “team player” actually looks like in corporate settingsThe lone wolf myth—and why it hurts your visibilityHow communication styles impact collaborationWhy perfectionism can make you a bad teammateHow to give (and receive) updates without spiralingReal-life examples of team tension—and how to fix itPlus: CJ and Larone share their own teamwork fails, how they’ve grown, and the different approaches they take when team members don’t pull their weight.

What does accountability really mean at work—and how do you build it without burning out? In this episode, CJ and Larone explore how showing up with consistency, clarity, and self-awareness can shift how you’re seen by peers and leadership alike.We talk through:The difference between accountability and ownership—and why it’s not just semanticsWhat it means to be seen as reliable (and why it’s not about being perfect)Why defensiveness is often a missed opportunity for growthHow to take responsibility without taking on blame that isn’t yoursThe small, everyday moments that build—or break—trust at workWhether you’re navigating feedback, managing projects, or just trying to be someone people can count on, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what accountability actually sounds like in practice.

You can write the perfect bio, ace your intro, and still walk into a room where someone already made up their mind about you.In this episode, we talk about the tension between your personal brand — the version of you that you want people to see — and your reputation — the version they pass around when you’re not in the room.We get honest about where we’ve fumbled, where we’ve overpromised, and how we’re learning (sometimes the hard way) that what people feel about working with you matters as much as what you can deliver.If you’ve ever thought, “Wait — is that really how I came across?”… this one’s for you.🎧 Listen for practical tips, real-life stories, and a reminder that managing your reputation isn’t fake — it’s just another form of care.

Stuck in an endless scroll of late-night emails? Bringing your laptop on vacation “just in case”? This episode dives into work creep — the sneaky way work invades every corner of our lives and how to finally set boundaries you can stick to.Larone and CJ unpack the toll of always being “on,” the double standards of overworking, and why burnout hits different depending on gender, culture, and capitalism. Plus: survival tips for hybrid workers, spicy truths about performative productivity, and one big question every remote worker should ask themselves before logging back on.🎧 Tap in for strategies, stories, and the nudge you need to reclaim your time.Follow the podcast at @workinprogressthepodcast Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

One-on-ones aren’t just check-ins—they’re one of the few moments you get your manager’s full attention. In this mini-sode of Work in Progress, Courtney Jennings-Hope and Larone break down how to use that time to build trust, communicate clearly, and shape your reputation at work. They explore why these meetings can feel uncomfortable, how psychological safety plays a role, and what to do when promotion paths feel vague or biased. Whether you’re aiming for clarity, recognition, or career growth, this episode will help you turn one-on-ones into your most valuable tool for navigating corporate life.Follow the podcast at @workinprogressthepodcast on Instagram  Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

Learning new skills at work is hard and it’s not just about time or talent. In this episode of Work in Progress, CJ and Larone get real about the anxiety that comes with being a beginner, the sting of feedback, and why adulting in corporate America often feels like a crash course in self-reflection. They explore how to reframe feedback as a tool for growth, the importance of giving yourself grace, and why setting realistic expectations is the most underrated professional skill. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “bad” at learning or taking feedback, this episode is your reminder: you’re not alone, and you’re not broken—you’re just growing.

Feeling fried at work? Struggling to keep up with emails, updates, and that never-ending to-do list? This week, we’re talking about the real reason you feel behind—it’s not your work ethic, it’s your lack of automation.CJ and Larone get honest about burnout, brain fog, and the underrated power of a good email template. From Pomodoro timers to AI summaries, we’re sharing the small tools and mindset shifts that are helping us reclaim our time (and our peace). Whether you’re drowning in Slack messages or trying to get strategic time back on your calendar, this episode is your permission slip to automate what doesn’t need your genius.We cover:How to start automating (even if you feel too busy)Our go-to tools for email, meetings, and project updatesWhy creating a system is the first step to setting yourself freeHow to save your future self (with one template at a time)Let’s automate our way to clarity—and maybe a nap.Keep up with us! Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

Feeling uneasy at work? Wondering if it’s time to move on—or ride it out? In this episode of Work in Progress, CJ and Larone break down how to recognize the signs that your job (or your entire industry) might be in trouble, and how to pivot strategically before you’re forced to.From hiring freezes and corporate “efficiency” talk to LinkedIn presence and documenting your wins, this episode is full of real talk, practical tips, and career survival strategy—especially for folks in higher ed, government, or tech.We cover:The biggest red flags that layoffs may be comingHow to prep your resume before you need toWays to use LinkedIn without being cringeyCareer pivots without going back to schoolThe emotional side of letting go or staying putWhether you’re already job searching or just trying to stay ready, this conversation will help you think sharper, act faster, and protect your peace.Keep up with usFollow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

Ever been talked over in a meeting? Corrected on your own name? Or watched the loudest person in the room get rewarded just for being loud? In this episode, Larone and CJ break down how toxic masculinity shows up in the workplace—and why it’s not just coming from men. We unpack the behaviors that get mistaken for “leadership,” how emotional intelligence gets undervalued, and why hustle culture might actually be hurting your career. This one’s for anyone who’s ever thought: Is it just me, or is this workplace kinda broken? You’ll hear: Real talk about Chad, Sasha, and that one manager we all know The difference between confidence and dominance Why calling out toxic behavior doesn’t make you “unprofessional” How to build better work culture—without being the boss Resources Mentioned “Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders?” (Harvard Business Review) Gender Role Conflict Theory (Dr. James O’Neil) Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠ Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠

Why does taking time off feel like a career risk?In this episode of Work in Progress, CJ and Larone unpack the unspoken guilt around taking PTO in hustle-heavy work cultures. From burnout masked as dedication to the myth of being “indispensable,” we explore what’s really behind that vacation dread.You’ll hear real talk on:Navigating time off without spiralingHow to prep your team for your absence (without guilt)Building work cultures that expect rest, not just allow it✨ For high performers who need permission to rest, and leaders who want to make it easier for others to do the same.Follow CJ on Instagram Here or LinkedIn HereFollow Larone on Instagram HereChapters00:00 Introduction to Corporate America02:59 The Importance of Taking PTO05:29 Navigating Job Security and PTO Anxiety08:22 The Myth of Being Indispensable11:16 Creating a Supportive Work Environment13:58 The Role of Self-Care in Professional Life16:41 Resilience and Creativity Through Time Off20:01 Final Thoughts on Work-Life Balance

Working hard isn’t enough. If you want to grow, you need to manage up — strategically.In this episode of Work in Progress, CJ and Larone unpack the real mechanics of career advancement; the visibility, the relationships, and the power moves no one teaches you. Promotions aren’t about pure merit. They’re about being seen, staying top of mind, and building the right alliances. We cover:How managing up helps your boss advocate for youWhy soft skills are the real differentiator (even if no one says so)Remote work hacks for staying visible and relevantThe ROI of tracking your wins and cross-functional relationshipsIf you’ve ever thought, “I’m doing everything right — why am I still stuck?” this episode is your playbook.Follow CJ on Instagram Here or LinkedIn HereFollow Larone on Instagram Here🎯 Keywords: career advancement, managing up, getting promoted, corporate politics, strategic visibility, remote leadership, soft skills

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right at work — hitting deadlines, going above and beyond — but somehow, it’s the louder, more visible people who get the promotions? You’re not imagining it. Promotions aren’t about pure merit, they’re about visibility, strategy, and knowing how to manage the unspoken rules. In this episode of Work in Progress, CJ and Larone break down the real mechanics of career growth: from how bias shapes opportunity, to how self-advocacy, visibility, and quiet influence actually move the needle.💬 If you’ve ever said:✔ “I hate self-promotion. Why can’t my work speak for itself?”✔ “I feel stuck, but I don’t know what to do differently.”✔ “How do I get noticed without feeling fake?”…this episode is your playbook.🔍 What You’ll Learn:Why hard work isn’t enough — and what actually isHow bias and politics shape who gets promotedTactical ways to build influence and get noticed (without cringing)How to network and self-advocate without selling outWhy personal branding matters, even if you’re planning to leave⏱ Chapters:00:00 – The Myth of Meritocracy02:48 – Identity, Bias & Career Advancement07:56 – Advocating for Yourself Without Feeling Cringe11:10 – Visibility, Power & Influence16:48 – Networking for People Who Hate It23:05 – Staying Professional When You’re Over It31:17 – Why Branding Matters (Even If You’re Leaving)Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠🔑 Keywords: career growth, how to get promoted, workplace bias, meritocracy at work, self-promotion, visibility at work, personal branding, networking strategies, career advancement

Referring someone for a job sounds simple, until your name ends up tied to their performance. In this episode of Work in Progress, Larone and Courtney get into the messy middle of job referrals: when to say yes, when to say no, and how to protect your reputation without burning bridges. Whether it’s a close friend or a former colleague, navigating referrals is a leadership skill — not just a favor.💬 If you’ve ever wondered:✔️ “Should I refer this person or stay out of it?”✔️ “What if they underperform — and it reflects on me?”✔️ “How do I help people in my network without hurting myself?”…this episode is for you.🔍 What You’ll Learn:How to vet referral requests (without feeling guilty)The power (and risk) of putting your name on someoneWhat makes a great referral — and what to avoidHow 2025 hiring trends are changing referral expectationsWhen to prioritize professional integrity over loyalty⏱ Chapters:00:00 – Intro: New Beginnings02:32 – Navigating Friendship & Professional Lines05:50 – The Power (and Politics) of Referrals08:42 – What the Referral Process Really Looks Like11:35 – Why Skills Matter More Than Good Vibes14:25 – A Lighthouse Analogy You’ll Actually Remember17:14 – The Emotional Toll of Recommending People23:03 – Rethinking Referrals in Job Searches25:31 – How 2025 Hiring Trends Shift the Game27:15 – When Referrals Go Wrong33:00 – Help Others Without Hurting Your Brand💡 Bottom line? A job referral is more than a favor — it’s a brand extension. Learn how to say yes (or no) with clarity, confidence, and care.🎧 Press play, then text this to the one person who’s always asking, “Can you refer me real quick?”🔑 Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠Keywords: job referrals, networking, professional reputation, how to refer someone, hiring trends 2025, job search tips, referral politics, workplace boundaries, career decisions

We’ve all heard the phrase “bring your whole self to work,” but what does that actually mean? And more importantly, how do you do it without oversharing, making things awkward, or feeling like you’re playing a corporate version of Survivor?In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, Larone and Courtney dig into the balancing act of workplace authenticity. They explore how to navigate self-expression while keeping your professionalism intact, the unspoken rules shaped by race and gender dynamics, and how to build workplace relationships without blurring boundaries.Expect real talk, personal stories, and practical tips on:🔹 Showing up as yourself without stalling your career growth🔹 The fine line between authenticity and way too much information🔹 How corporate culture shapes identity (for better or worse)🔹 Why personal branding isn’t just for influencersIf you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and follow. Your support helps us keep these conversations going!TakeawaysThere is a fine line between professionalism and oversharing.Workplace dynamics are influenced by race and gender.Entrepreneurship offers a path to greater authenticity.Finding your people at work is crucial for support.Boundaries are important in workplace relationships.Understanding workplace culture is key to navigating it.Chapters00:00 Navigating Professionalism and Authenticity11:42 The Balance of Self at Work21:25 Finding Your Voice in Corporate Spaces29:12 Advice for Younger Professionals

LinkedIn: love it, hate it, or just quietly lurk? In this episode of Work in Progress, Larone and Courtney get real about how to make LinkedIn actually work for you, without turning into a “thought leader” parody. From building real relationships to creating content that doesn’t make you cringe, we’re breaking down what it takes to stand out on the platform in 2025.💬 If you’ve ever thought:✔ “Do I really need to post on LinkedIn to get noticed?”✔ “How do I network without being that person in the DMs?”✔ “What even counts as good engagement?”…this one’s for you.🔍 What You’ll Learn:Why engagement > follower count (especially in 2025)How to optimize your profile for visibility + credibilityWhat kind of content actually gets readThe do’s and don’ts of connecting without being cornyHow to curate your feed and protect your peace⏱ Chapters:01:44 – Our Love-Hate Relationship with LinkedIn04:56 – How LinkedIn Has Evolved07:43 – Optimizing Your Profile (Yes, Again)09:30 – Engagement > Follower Count15:18 – Managing Time & Energy on LinkedIn16:52 – Using LinkedIn with Intention21:13 – What Makes Content Land24:24 – LinkedIn Emotions Are Real26:47 – Building Relationships That Matter30:34 – Setting LinkedIn Goals That Serve You💡 Bottom line: You don’t have to become a brand to use LinkedIn well. But you do need a strategy.🎧 Hit play, then send this to a friend who either posts way too much or hasn’t updated their profile since 2019.🔑 Follow CJ on Instagram ⁠Here⁠ or LinkedIn ⁠Here⁠Follow Larone on Instagram ⁠Here⁠Keywords: LinkedIn strategy, LinkedIn for professionals, how to network on LinkedIn, personal branding, engagement tips, optimizing your LinkedIn, professional networking 2025, career growth tools, social media for career development

In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, Courtney Jennings-Hope and Larone Ellison dive into the twists and turns of mentorship. They break down the difference between mentors and peer relationships, how to actually use these connections for career advancement, and why the best advice often comes from unexpected places. From personal growth to professional development, they explore how to navigate mentorship with intention, align with mentors who match your values, and strike the right balance between guidance, support, and networking without it feeling forced.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Mentorship02:49 Defining Mentor Relationships05:23 Personal Traits in Mentorship08:25 Mentor vs. Peer Dynamics10:58 Learning from Peers13:45 Navigating Hierarchies in Mentorship18:11 Defining Mentorship vs. Peer Relationships22:34 The Value of Mentorship in Career Advancement28:05 Leveraging Mentors for Career Growth32:43 Navigating Job Applications with Mentor SupportLeave us a comment and review!

You sit down to update your resume… and suddenly, everything you’ve ever done sounds meh at best. Enter ChatGPT, the AI tool that promises to make you expert instantly. But is it actually helpful, or just another way to procrastinate your job search? In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, Courtney and Larone put AI to the test, tweaking resume lines, calling out the biggest mistakes job seekers make, and figuring out where AI shines (and where it flops). Think of this as the resume break down you didn’t know you needed. Leave a comment Have more questions about using AI in your job search? Leave us a comment or question and we'll answer in an upcoming episode. 🎧 Available where ever you listen to podcasts and don’t forget to subscribe for more real-talk about work, culture, and everything in between. New episodes drop every Monday. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Liked this episode? Leave us a review, they help new people find us.

Ever feel like your career growth is stuck on autopilot? Waiting for your manager or company to chart your next step? Spoiler alert: That’s not their job, it’s yours.In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, we’re unpacking the hard truth: Your career is your responsibility. We explore:The Generational Shift – Why older generations saw career growth as a company-led path, while Millennials and Gen Z are redefining loyalty through purpose and flexibility.The Manager Myth – Why your manager isn’t your career architect (and how relying on them can keep you stuck).How to Take Control – Think of your career like a GPS—your current job is just a stop, not the destination. We’ll share actionable steps to network, pivot, and future-proof your career.The Courage to Pivot – Why staying in a stagnant role is riskier than making a bold move—and how to know when it’s time to go.You are the CEO of your career. Your manager might be a coach, your mentors might be advisors, but at the end of the day, you are the one driving your success.🎧 Available where ever you listen to podcasts and don’t forget to subscribe for more real-talk about work, culture, and everything in between. New episodes drop every Monday.Leave a comment or reviewLeave us a comment or question and we'll answer in an upcoming episode. Liked this episode? Leave us a review, they help new people find us.

The rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs is making headlines, but what does it mean for the workplace and the people in it?In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, Courtney and Larone unpack the true purpose of DEI. What it is, what it isn't, and why it matters. They dive into how these changes affect employees across the board, with a special focus on veterans and other vulnerable groups who often benefit from these programs without even realizing it.Join us as we explore how DEI impacts workplace culture, why it's often misunderstood, and what rollbacks mean for morale, innovation, and inclusion. Whether you're a leader, an advocate, or someone trying to make sense of it all, this episode will leave you with actionable insights and a fresh perspective on why DEI is more than just a corporate buzzword. Leave a comment or reviewLeave us a comment or question and we'll answer in an upcoming episode. Please leave us a review if you liked the show, they help new people find us.

Ghost Jobs and the Emotional Rollercoaster of Job HuntingEver feel like you’re applying to jobs that might as well be ghost stories? Us too.In this episode of Cohesive Tangent, we’re talking about ghost jobs—those frustrating postings that never seem to lead anywhere. Larone dives into how it feels to keep hitting a wall, Courtney shares why networking can be your secret weapon, and together, we explore what it’s like to navigate the emotional toll of job hunting.This isn’t a “how-to” podcast—it’s a “we’ve been there” podcast. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re job hunting in a vacuum, hit play. We’re here to remind you that you’re not alone.🎧 Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more real-talk about work, culture, and everything in between.Leave a comment or reviewLeave us a comment or question and we'll answer in an upcoming episode. Liked this episode? Leave us a review, they help new people find us.

🎙️ Cohesive Tangent: In this episode, Larone and Courtney tackle the all-too-relatable moment of realizing you’re in the wrong role. Join us for a candid conversation about the emotional rollercoaster, struggles, and valuable lessons that come with navigating a job mismatch and reclaiming your career path. Whether you’re feeling stuck, questioning your next steps, or searching for clarity, this episode offers insights and inspiration to help you move forward. 👉 Perfect for professionals exploring career pivots, workplace challenges, and personal growth.

In this debut episode of Cohesive Tangent, we dive into a vivid dream that left one of our hosts plotting petty revenge against everyone who’s ever slighted them. But what started as a laugh-worthy story turned into a wake-up call about dissatisfaction with their current role. We explore the feelings behind realizing you’ve chosen the wrong opportunity, how to navigate the disappointment, and the steps they’re taking to course-correct and move closer to the role they truly want. It’s a candid conversation about self-awareness, growth, and, yes, a little bit of pettiness.