Kinda Planned

Hosted by Alex Cuttiford

Business Careers EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

About the show

Hi, I’m Alex Cuttiford, I’m career development obsessed and passionate about helping young professionals navigate their career with confidence, purpose, and impact. With a background in Trades, youth work, career development and government, I know what it’s like to have had a messy career. I also know my journey is my superpower. Over the past 8 years, I’ve designed and delivered strategic career initiatives and coached people through transitions big and small. My focus is on helping others understand themselves — their values, strengths, and skills — so they can make career decisions that are not just smart, but meaningful. I believe in holding space for authentic conversations, and the power of curiosity to unlock new opportunities. I’m the creator of the Kinda Planned podcast — where through authentic conversations, inspiring stories, and practical advice I’ll help you take ownership of your career and make decisions that feel right. But beyond the mic, I’m someone who’s walking the same path as my audience. I know what it feels like to be ambitious and uncertain, in fact I have embraced uncertainty as the gateway to unplannable opportunities. I’ve learnt to hold my goals in an open hand and asses every opportunity that comes my way through the filter of my values and relationships. Honestly, I couldn’t have planned my career better if I tried. I’m here for the people that want to build an impactful career without having to pretend they have it all figured out. Thanks for joining me. Kinda Planned is part of the bud & bee career development podcast network. bud & bee.

Listen to episodes

59 recent

January 26, 2025Episode 2932 min

Strengths, Interests and Motivations and how they impact your career with Kirstene Ciappara

Kirstene is the Co-Founder & Managing Director of myDESIGN Education, a Career Development Practitioner, educator, and strengths-based enthusiast who is passionate about helping people live their best lives from the inside-out. Connect with Kirstene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstene-ciappara/ https://www.mydesigneducation.com.au/ Alex Cuttiford details: If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources: https://www.brandmycareer.au/

October 12, 2025Episode 4842 min

An argument for remote work that enhances wellbeing with Shonavee Simpson-anderson

In this conversation, SEO strategist Shonavee shares her unexpected journey into the SEO industry, discussing the importance of identifying gaps in the market and the evolving nature of work, particularly in the context of remote versus in-office settings. She emphasises the significance of communication styles, both explicit and implicit, and how they impact career progression and workplace dynamics. The discussion also touches on the need for businesses to adapt to the changing landscape of work and the importance of understanding individual needs for productivity and fulfilment. Shonavee said that for people who have been misunderstood throughout their career, "I am your hope story." Takeaways Shonavee's career in SEO was unplanned but became a necessity. Identifying gaps in the industry can lead to career opportunities. Remote work can enhance productivity for some individuals. Communication styles vary greatly and impact workplace interactions. Explicit communication lays the groundwork for implicit understanding. The novelty of work environments can boost productivity. Career progression can be more visible in remote settings. Understanding individual needs is crucial for workplace happiness. Nothing in your career is wasted; all experiences are valuable. Work culture should accommodate diverse communication styles. Chapters 00:00 Srinavi's Journey into SEO 11:33 The Remote vs. In-Office Debate 33:23 Communication Dynamics in the Workplace

February 11, 2024Episode 244 min

Laura Allen a Career Coach from England shares about struggling with perfectionism, mental health and greif.

Laura Allen founder of Career and Wellness coaching and Your Wellbing day. Laura was very generous in sharing her career journey and the challenges that have shaped it and her as a person. She talks about dropping out of college, how beeing a perfectionist helped her advance her career but that it also took a toll on her mental health, how the loss of her mum made her reevaluate her priorities and how it lead to launching her coaching business. Laura worked in HR for a number of years and is passionate about corporate training that people actually get sonething of off, she isn't interested in tick box activities. This has lead her to launch an inovative training business called Your Wellbeing Day which gives people numerous options that they can pick and choose which workshops they participate in. Options range from doing a yoga session to Menopause & women's nutrition to EFT Tapping. make sure you reach out to her and connect on Linkedin and let her know if you were ecouraged by this episode. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lallencwcoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/@LauraAllenCoaching https://www.instagram.com/lauraallencoach/ https://www.careerandwellnesscoaching.com/ https://www.yourwellbeingday.com/ If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources https://www.brandmycareer.au/

March 24, 2024Episode 732 min

Tegan Winter a recruitment manager at Rarekind shares her tips for job seekers and explains what the recruitment process might look like

Tegan Winters is a recruitment manager at Rarekind. Tegan is not only a recruiter, but a leader in her community. She grew up in the upper Hunter and later moved to Newcastle. In 2023 she was awarded the HunterNet Future Leader of the year. She shares in this episode: Her own career journey to becomeing a recruiter. The challenge of moving away from home at a young age. Her experience participating in the HunterNet Future Leaders Program. What a typical recruitment process will look like when being done by an agency. And advice and tips on how to standout through that process. You can find Tegan on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tegan-hardcastle-newcastle/ Alex Cuttiford details: If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources https://www.brandmycareer.au/

March 3, 2024Episode 554 min

Yasmina El Mrabet - Graphic design student at UoN on the challenges of transitioning from study to career

In this episode Yaz shares her journey of moving to Australia to study, how friends and family often don't see the value in creative careers, and she turns it back on me and asks me some questions to help her and other university students learn how they can progress their career using the skills they have learnt throughout their courses. Yout can find Yaz in Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmina-el-mrabet-251799212/ If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources https://www.brandmycareer.au/

July 20, 2025Episode 4248 min

Rooted in Culture, Guided by Purpose: Tracy Ryan on Redefining Career Development through First Nations Perspectives

In this conversation, Tracy Ryan shares her diverse career journey, highlighting her experiences in education, cultural advocacy, and her role as a mediator. She discusses the importance of cultural identity in her work, particularly in relation to First Nations perspectives and educational design. Tracy also emphasizes the significance of understanding the impact of our actions on individuals and communities, advocating for a thoughtful approach to career development and education. In this conversation, Tracy Ryan discusses the cultural differences in work and land management, emphasizing the importance of understanding workplace culture and the interview process. She highlights innovative approaches in career development and the role of educators in fostering student growth. Tracy encourages taking calculated risks in career choices, reflecting on her own experiences and the significance of creating supportive environments for young people. Connect with Tracy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-v-ryan/

February 23, 2025Episode 3154 min

Defining neurodiversity and exploring barriers to Neurodivergent people face in the workforce with Mariane Power

Mazz is a clinical Psychologist, executive coach, consultant, and speaker who is an advocate for neurodivergent people. Her goal is to reduce unnecessary human suffering and identifies as a passionate, creative multi-hyphenate. We go deep into the language in and around the neurodiversity space and how we can make workplaces safer for all types of brains and ideas. https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianepower/ https://www.marianepower.com.au/ Alex Cuttiford details: If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford

March 10, 2024Episode 657 min

Kim Kerton shares about over identifying with your job and the realities of small business ownership.

Kim Kerton is host of the popular podcast Unemployed and Afraid. She is known for her authenticity and extreme openess about the realities of running a small business. Kim is a podcast consultant with a vast history in audio following a successful career in Radio. You can access her services through her business Good Side Of The Bed. https://goodsideofthebed.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/goodsideofthebed_ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-kerton/ Alex Cuttifords details: If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources https://www.brandmycareer.au/

November 30, 2025Episode 5540 min

Preparing for Fatherhood: Lessons from Ali Killali

In this episode of the Kinda Planned Career Podcast, host Alex Cuttiford speaks with Ali Killali, founder of Workpants, about the intersection of fatherhood and career development. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise when becoming a parent, including the importance of flexibility, financial planning, and the need for a supportive community. Ali shares insights on how to navigate the complexities of work-life balance and the transferable skills gained through parenthood that can enhance one's career. The conversation emphasises the importance of adaptability and kindness to oneself during this transformative journey. https://www.workpants.com.au/resources/dad-career-guide Takeaways The journey into parenthood can significantly impact career paths. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in navigating work and family life. Financial planning is essential for new parents to ensure stability. Having a supportive community can alleviate the challenges of parenthood. It's important to approach parenting with a mindset of experimentation and kindness. Common pitfalls include rigid planning and unrealistic expectations of oneself. Parenthood can enhance skills like empathy, resilience, and adaptability. Recognising the value of transferable skills gained through parenting is important. It's okay to seek help and support from others during this journey. Finding a balance between personal values and societal expectations is key. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fatherhood and Career Challenges 03:06 Ali's Career Journey and the Birth of Workpants 05:56 Navigating Parenthood and Career Transitions 08:57 Financial Planning for New Parents 11:51 The Fluidity of Parenthood and Career Planning 14:54 Protective Instincts and Social Dynamics of Parenthood 18:00 Pitfalls in Preparing for Parenthood 19:23 Navigating Parenthood: Embracing Change and Flexibility 22:40 The Pressure of Expectations: Finding Balance in Parenthood 26:24 Overcorrection in Parenting: Striking the Right Balance 31:40 Transferable Skills: How Parenthood Enhances Career Growth 35:41 Building Your Support Village: The Importance of Community

October 6, 2024Episode 2138 min

Building a career education powerhouse with Aimee Bateman

Aimee Bateman turned a Youtube channel into an award winning e-learning company, called careercake Careercake’s professional development platform supported more than 10 million professionals in over 42 countries with leading organisations including Companies House, Nationwide and Tech Nation using it’s premium video content to develop their talent and in 2019 Careercake was voted the UK’s No.1 ‘Careers Advice Website’ …. a proud moment for myself and our incredible team. In 2022 Careercake was successfully acquired by the world leading e-learning platform, SocialTalent. In addition, her professional development courses have been completed by over 3 million people on the LinkedIn Learning platform and she continues to mentor and support organisations and their teams to feel seen, heard and valued in their careers. Aimee Batman Linktree: https://linktr.ee/aimeebateman Alex Cuttiford details: If you want to get in touch find me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cuttiford-103a881a0/ If you want to shout me a coffee follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexcuttiford Or head to my website for more free resources: https://www.brandmycareer.au/