Career Adventurer Podcast

Hosted by Paul G Fisher

Business Education

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Jan 2026

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About the show

Today, nearly every generation feels less engaged with their work. I think this is because it's harder to see the possibilities around them. The antidote: hearing others real, compelling paths. The Career Adventurer Podcast shares people's real career adventures. You'll hear how people like you seek purpose in their work, explore new paths, leap into new things, and challenge themselves in today's frenetic work environment. www.careeradventurer.com

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28 recent

January 29, 2026Episode 2445 min

Episode 24: Recruiting Executively

Episode 24: Recruiting Executively Senior HR Executive, Hally Cowden talks adventures in franchise ownership and executive recruiting Ever wonder what owning a fitness franchise entails? How about the ins-and-outs of helping people find their next job opportunity? Former corporate HR executive and current executive recruiter, Halley Cowden discusses her career trials, tribulations, and triumphs on the Career Adventurer Podcast. After spending nearly 20 years at P&G, Halley sought a change. She decided to make a career out of her passion for fitness and became a franchise owner nine months prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. She learned out how to keep a business focused on community connection afloat at a time when social distancing was the norm. She also learned that another pivot was in order. Serendipitously, one phone call lead to a new career as an executive recruiter. Halley shares her wisdom on career pivots, mentorship, the importance of note-taking, and more built on 20+ years of experience in multiple fields. 00:54 - The Journey into Executive Recruiting 03:17 - Challenges and Insights in Recruiting 07:25 - From Corporate to Fitness Franchise 15:30 - Mentorship and Personal Growth 22:06 - Balancing Career and Family 23:26 - Coaching and Career Advice 25:38 - Networking Tips for Job Seekers 26:34 - Helping Others in Their Career Transitions 27:32 - The Importance of CRM in Job Hunting 29:25 - Overcoming Career Fears and Owning Your Story 32:27 - Making Work More Adventurous and Engaging 36:05 - Comparing Corporate and Entrepreneurial Rewards 40:56 - Maintaining Purpose and Growth in Your Career This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

November 20, 202536 min

Episode 23: Getting Lego Serious

Episode 23: Getting Lego Serious Van Lai-Dumone, CEO of worksmart Advantage, talks unlocking creativity in the workplace. Why is creativity a crucial skill in today's workforce, and how can it be harnessed for professional development? In this episode of the Career Adventurer Podcast, host Paul Fisher welcomes Van Lai-Dumone , founder and CEO of worksmart Advantage . Van's diverse background spans roles from a daily method bar practitioner to leading sales at GlaxoSmithKline. She is a certified Lego Serious Play practitioner, bringing a unique blend of creativity and team development into the corporate environment. With a background as a Vietnamese refugee, Van offers a unique perspective on courage and taking the leap to pursue one's passions. She discusses her journey into entrepreneurship, driven by her passion for creativity, while navigating various obstacles. She highlights her transition from corporate roles to founding her own company, focusing on integrating creativity into leadership and team development programs. One compelling aspect is her work with The Honor Foundation , using creative methodologies like Lego Serious Play to assist special forces operators transitioning to civilian careers. Major themes in this episode include the role of creativity in problem-solving, the importance of taking creative risks, and the power of following one’s passion despite societal expectations. 00:35 - Meet Van Lai-Dumone: Founder and CEO of Work Smart Advantage 01:19 - The Journey of Work Smart Advantage 02:43 - The Importance of Creativity in the Workplace 03:55 - Tools and Techniques for Creative Problem Solving 05:06 - The Power of Lego Serious Play 06:26 - Personal Reflections on Creativity and Career 15:39 - Overcoming Challenges and Rejections 20:46 - Overcoming the Fear of Asking for Help 22:03 - The Journey of Opening a Bar Studio 23:22 - Lessons from Business Failures 24:37 - Challenges in Selling Yourself 28:06 - The Power of Experience in Business 31:03 - Working with The Honor Foundation 35:11 - Reflecting on the Journey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

October 10, 202533 min

Episode 22: Aging Strong

Aging Strong: Hugo Mendez’s Journey from Corporate to Fitness Entrepreneur In this episode of Career Adventurer, we delve into the inspiring journey of Hugo Mendez , founder and CEO of Age Strong , a fitness training company dedicated to helping men over 40 achieve better health and longevity. Hugo shares his transition from a corporate life at Nestle to becoming a certified kettlebell instructor and entrepreneur. He discusses building a brand from scratch, tackling imposter syndrome, and the importance of aligning business aspirations with personal values. Hugo also reveals the origins and philosophy behind Age Strong, emphasizing the concept of proactive aging and the significance of resilience and connection in entrepreneurship. Tune in to hear about Hugo’s personal and professional transformations, the mentors who guided him, and his vision for the future of Age Strong. 01:27 - The Birth of Age Strong 06:35 - Building a Brand and Overcoming Doubts 10:55 - Key Influences and Mentors 14:21 - Choosing Kettlebell Training 15:54 - Creating Your Courage Corner 17:42 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 18:31 - Transforming Lives Through Fitness 20:21 - Building a Brand from Scratch 22:11 - Embracing Entrepreneurship 26:39 - Navigating Career Paths and AI 30:15 - Future of Age Strong This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

September 5, 202542 min

Episode 21: Seeking Sukha

Episode 21: Seeking Sukha Former Hollywood Exec and Startup Founder, Steven Puri discusses finding career happiness from pain This episode of the Career Adventure Podcast delves deep into the story of Steven Puri , the founder of Sukha , a productivity startup designed to help people reclaim their time. Steven harnesses his extensive experience as a Hollywood executive to create innovative solutions for remote work. He shares insights on how pain and curiosity fuel meaningful pursuits and discusses how storytelling techniques enhance productivity far beyond the entertainment industry. Moreover, Career Adventurer host, Paul Fisher and Steven cover AI's role in amplifying human potential, the importance of focusing on core tasks, and the enduring principles of effective work habits. Don't miss this episode packed with behind-the-scenes stories, personal anecdotes, and practical wisdom. 00:31 > Meet Steven Puri: From Hollywood to Productivity Startup 01:47 > The Role of Pain and Curiosity in Career Transitions 02:51 > Steven's Journey: From Tech Startups to Sukha 04:01 > Building Sukha: A Productivity Tool with a Purpose 05:20 > The Story Behind the Name 'Sukha' 12:06 > Challenges and Feedback in Building Sukha 18:21 > Steven's Hollywood Background and Career Shift 21:39 > Hugh Jackman: The Nicest Star 22:05 > People and Products: A Universal Truth 26:30 > The Core of Storytelling 29:39 > Overcoming Productivity Challenges 35:13 > The Rewards of a Career in Film 37:34 > Coolest Movie Experience 40:46 > Final Thoughts and Future Connections This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

July 16, 2025Episode 2248 min

Episode 20: Uncage Your Bird

Uncage Your Bird Nikkia Reveillac , Founder of Birds Uncaged and Sr. Insights Executive, talks about unleashing what's inside you. In this episode of Career Adventurer, Paul Fisher interviews Nikkia Reveillac , a former senior insights executive at top companies like Netflix, Twitter, and Colgate-Palmolive. Nikkia shares her journey from corporate success to founding Birds Uncaged , an initiative driven by her creative and entrepreneurial spirit. She discusses the importance of being a whole-brained professional in the age of AI, balancing analytical and creative skills, and making personal vows. Nikkia also delves into her personal experiences with career changes, the role of spirituality, and the significance of being present. The conversation touches on practical insights for personal growth, professional development, and the value of aligning one's work with their true calling. 00:57 - Nikkia's Professional Journey 01:57 - Transition to Birds Uncaged 04:11 - Challenges and Reflections 07:13 - Career Shifts and Personal Growth 12:22 - Spirituality and Self-Discovery 24:57 - Discovering Inner Confidence 26:17 - Aligning Passion with Profession 29:27 - Embracing Creativity and Authenticity 34:52 - Parenting and Life Lessons 37:47 - The Importance of Presence 42:59 - Infusing Creativity into Everyday Life This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

June 30, 202541 min

Episode 19: Navigating the Future of Work With AI

Navigating the Future of Work With AI Host Paul Fisher , along with leading Cincinnati based entrepreneurs and thinkers Bob Gilbreath , Kendra Ramirez , and Josette Riep , discuss the future of work as shaped by AI. They draw from the latest insights from the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report. But, they go further. They bring their unique perspectives as former corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and academics to delve into how AI is reshaping job markets, the importance of embracing technology while maintaining human values, and the necessity of up-skilling across generations. The discussion highlights the balance between leveraging AI for productivity and ensuring equitable and inclusive progress in the workforce. Plus, they offer candid coaching on how to embrace change that is applicable to those just entering the work force and seasoned workers. 00:00 Introduction to Career Adventurers 00:32 - Exploring the Future of Work Report 01:54 - Insights from Josette Riep 04:21 - Bob Gilbreath's Perspective 07:33 - Kendra Ramirez on Job Transitions 11:37 - Coaching for Future Careers 20:29 - Courage and Leadership in Business 21:10 - Investing in Talent and Early Career Experiences 23:45 - AI in the Workplace: Real-Life Examples 26:47 - Balancing AI and Human Intelligence 28:40 - Up-skilling Across Generations 30:29 - AI in Recruitment and Feedback 35:06 - Final Thoughts on AI and the Future of Work 40:10 - Conclusion and Resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

June 23, 2025Episode 2234 min

Episode 18: Exploring Expansive Horizons

Exploring Expansive Horizons with Raul Ruiz In this episode of Career Adventurer, host Paul Fisher engages in an insightful conversation with Raul Ruiz , a seasoned CPG Marketing Executive, about his diverse career journey. Raul shares his experiences working on iconic brands such as Modelo Especial, Corona Extra, and Sharpie, and delves into the intricacies of marketing across different industries, including consumer durables, beverage alcohol, and culinary products. He explains the similarities and distinctions in marketing approaches and the importance of sensory experiences in consumer engagement. Raul also reflects on his transition from a financial background to marketing, his methodology for knowing when to switch jobs, and the exciting future prospects in health, wellness, and alcohol-free beverage sectors. The discussion reveals the dynamic nature of marketing roles and provides valuable insights for anyone looking to forge their unique career path. 00:00 - Introduction to Career Adventure 01:23 - Raul's Career Journey and Current Exploration 02:22 - Insights on Marketing Across Industries 03:20 - The Dynamics of Regulated vs. Non-Regulated Categories 10:01 - The Intersection of Business and Creativity in Marketing 12:56 - Navigating Career Transitions and Personal Growth 16:17 - Understanding Different Marketing Roles 22:56 - From Finance to Marketing: Raul's Path 30:25 - Private Equity vs. Public Companies 32:19 - Conclusion and Next Steps This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

May 14, 202536 min

Episode 17: The Power of Pause

The Power of Pause: Sandhya Sudhakar talks Rediscovering Purpose Via Sabbatical In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Sandhya Sudhakar , a certified coach, Enneagram practitioner, and founder of Self At Work . Host Paul Fisher uncovers how Sandhya transitioned from a successful career in sales and marketing at companies like Procter & Gamble to launching her own coaching business centered around the Enneagram framework. Sandhya's journey towards starting her Enneagram-focused business began during a sabbatical filled with self-exploration. Initially discovering the Enneagram as a tool for personal reflection, she started facilitating workshops for fun, which organically led to the establishment of her business. Key Themes: 1. Discovery of Enneagram: Sandhya discusses how she found the Enneagram during a period of burnout and personal challenges. Her own experiences and curiosity turned into a business after she noticed the positive impact of her Enneagram workshops on others. 2. Challenges and Growth: Balancing between corporate responsibilities and personal values, Sandhya decided to make the leap to entrepreneurship, learning to overcome challenges like marketing her new identity and shifting her business model to meet client needs. 3. Empowerment through Coaching: Sandhya emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself to maximize fulfillment and impact at work. Using the Enneagram framework, she helps teams and individuals identify their strengths and work more cohesively. 00:00 - Introduction to the Career Adventure Podcast 00:10 - Meet Sandhya Sudhakar: From Corporate to Self-Exploration 00:48 - The Enneagram Framework: A Tool for Emotional Intelligence 02:00 - Sandhya's Personal Journey with the Enneagram 03:28 - Sabbatical Stories: Discovering New Paths 06:33 - Building Self at Work: From Workshops to Business 11:56 - Challenges and Insights in Entrepreneurship 13:22 - The Importance of Purpose and Fulfillment in Work 18:56 - Career Reflections and Advice 28:57 - Closing Thoughts and Encouragement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

April 21, 2025Episode 1944 min

Episode 16: Embrace Your Freak

Embrace Your Freak Could weaknesses actually be strengths in disguise? Yes! Paul Fisher , Host and Podcast founder, discusses this idea with David Rendall , a keynote speaker and author of The Freak Factor , in this episode of the Career Adventurer Podcast. We explore the dynamic career journey of David Rendall, a certified speaking professional who has delivered keynote speeches globally over the past 15 years. Initially working in non-profits in Wisconsin, David made his way into public speaking through community involvement and serendipitous opportunities. Specializing in leveraging personal weaknesses as strengths, his Freak Factor concept has become a pivotal part of his speeches, advocating for the alignment of one's innate qualities with career paths. We discuss themes such as self-awareness, the intersection of life experiences and career development, and practical approaches to exploring new career opportunities without taking significant risks. - 00:00 - Introduction to the Career Adventure Podcast - 00:49 - David Rendell's Journey to Public Speaking - 01:20 - From Nonprofit Work to Speaking Engagements - 04:19 - Building a Speaking Career - 11:12 - The Freak Factor Philosophy - 22:29 - Exploring Creative Pathways - 23:32 - Finding Your Freak Factor Without Quitting Your Job - 25:02 - Testing New Career Paths - 28:51 - Self-Awareness and Psychology in Career Development - 34:05 - The Realities of Being a Speaker - 38:17 - Learning from Career Failures This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com

March 20, 2025Episode 1536 min

Episode 15: Growing Through Grit

Growing Through Grit: Insights on Career Wellbeing Katie O'Malley , Founder of Encourage Coaching has grit. She's navigated a variety of spaces from the political realm to real estate to higher education and now, to coaching. In this episode of the Career Adventurer Podcast, Katie shares her insights as a career coach and workplace strategist with over 15 years of experience. Through Encourage Coaching, Katie offers leadership and career coaching with a mission to provide accessible coaching services. She shares her transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, insights into career and leadership coaching, and her personal journey of overcoming mental health challenges. Katie also discusses her current work on merging Encourage Coaching with the Collective Academy to expand their services. 00:00 - Introduction to the Career Adventurer Podcast, Meet Katie O'Malley: Career Coach and Workplace Strategist 01:10 - Founding Encourage Coaching 03:22 - Navigating the Pandemic and Business Growth 04:51 - Merging with the Collective Academy 06:35 - Understanding Career vs. Leadership Coaching 15:51 - Katie's Personal Journey and Mental Health 24:12 - Making Career Decisions and Taking Risks 32:34 - Reflecting on Career Impact and Future Connections This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.careeradventurer.com