Shortcut your path to being more successful at work. This show helps you figure out what you truly want, land a job, make more money, advance your career, and improve your work life with actionable insights from experts that boost work performance.We're covering job searches, job interviews, resumes, LinkedIn, how to get paid and get a salary raise, career growth tips, leadership and management advice, workplace interpersonal skills, wellness strategies, work-life balance, confidence, career tra
Listen to episodes
60 recent
October 20, 202632 min
Why Discipline Doesn't Work for Most People
Think you need more discipline to reach your goals? Jia Jiang, bestselling author of Rejection Proof and Easy Discipline , explains why relying on willpower and working harder often backfires—and what to do instead. You’ll learn: Why traditional discipline doesn’t work for most people How enjoyment can make ambitious goals easier to sustain How to redesign your habits so progress requires less willpower Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Newsletter: https://blog.jiajiang.com/ Website: https://www.jiajiang.com/ Book: https://www.jiajiang.com/easydiscipline Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors Unlock your best hair & skin with @iRestorelaser and HUGE savings on iRESTORE with code CONTESSA at irestore.com/ CONTESSA! #irestorepod Shop now at Fabletics.com/CONTESSA to get 70–80% off everything when you sign up as a new VIP. Nuuly is a great value at $98 a month, but right now you can get $28 off your first month when you sign up with code CONTESSA. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
October 13, 202641 min
How to Protect Your Career from a Bad Manager
A bad manager can undermine your confidence, hurt your performance, and even derail your career. But what if quitting isn’t an option? Career coach and author Cathy Alfandre shares how to recognize a damaging manager, protect yourself while you stay, and create a strategic exit plan. Plus, learn how to spot red flags during the interview process so you don’t end up with another bad boss. You’ll learn: How to tell the difference between a demanding manager and a damaging one How to protect your confidence and career when you can’t quit How to spot manager red flags before accepting your next job Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Website: https://cathyalfandre.com/ Book: https://cathyalfandre.com/my-book/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cathyalfandre Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: You can try Granola totally free—head to granola.ai/CONTESSA. Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/CONTESSA! #honeylovepod Open a Found account at found.com. Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. Found does not provide legal or tax advice. If you’re ready to launch your business before Black Friday, go to SHOPIFY.COM/careercontessa to start your free trial. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
October 6, 202635 min
How High-Achieving Women Heal Their "Success Wound"
Why do so many successful women still feel like they're falling behind—even after achieving the career milestones they once dreamed of? Executive coach and former Google leader Brooke Taylor explains the hidden "Success Wound" that keeps high achievers chasing the next accomplishment without ever feeling like it's enough. Learn how to break free from the cycle of burnout, perfectionism, and self-doubt while pursuing ambition that actually feels fulfilling. You'll learn: Why burnout, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome may be symptoms—not the real problem. The five types of "Unfulfilled Achievers" and how to identify your own patterns. How to cultivate "aligned ambition" so you can pursue big goals without tying your self-worth to your achievements. Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Brooke Taylor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooketaylor-coach/ Book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/brooke-taylor/healing-the-success-wound/9780306836107/?lens=balance Website: https://brooketaylorcoaching.com/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors Reset your kitchen on a budget. Bundle and save up to $230 on the 12 piece cookware set vs buying the products individually. Explore more set savings on bakeware, food storage, accessories and more. Visit Carawayhome.com/CONTESSA to take an additional 10% off your next purchase. This deal is exclusive for our listeners, so visit Carawayhome.com/CONTESSA or use code CONTESSA at checkout. Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/f010o9zo #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement, for the Sutton debit flex card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/debit-flex-card-agreement-sutton and for the Bancorp debit flex card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/debit-flex-card-agreement-bancorp. Savings and Offers provided by Cash App, a Block Inc. brand. Offers may not be affiliated with third party merchants. Parents and legal guardians can open a managed account for kids 6-12. Cash App will pass through a portion of the interest paid on your savings balance held in an account for the benefit of Cash App customers at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. To earn interest on your Cash App savings balance, you need to have sponsor approval. Exceptions may apply. Savings yield rate is subject to change. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
September 29, 202635 min
What Recruiters Know That Job Seekers Don't
Landing a job in today's market takes more than submitting applications and hoping for the best. Recruiter, career coach, and content creator Emily Durham ("Emily the Recruiter") shares what hiring managers are actually looking for in 2026, the biggest mistakes candidates make, and the practical strategies that lead to more interviews and better offers. If you're job searching, considering a career pivot, or simply want to stay competitive, this episode is packed with actionable advice. You'll learn: What recruiters actually look for first on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and application. How to network, interview, and negotiate salary with confidence in today's hiring market. The three actions to take this week if you want to land a new job within the next 90 days. Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily.the.recruiter/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.the.recruiter Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQTM8RQR?lv=shuf&redirect=true&tag=randohouseinc47720-20&channelId=1&plpRedirect=mhFallback Podcast: https://pod.link/1505520809?fbclid=PAAaaxnLRkpCu19e-HFhhvwjmTjzZkHMXRsFhpw_1zChmw5dM144xiv-_OeXU Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/d58604ea1659/newsletter Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Granola is an AI-powered notepad that makes your meeting notes useful. You can try it totally free—head to granola.ai/CONTESSA. Nuuly is a subscription clothing rental service that lets you pick 6 styles for just $98/month. Right now you can get $28 off your first month when you sign up with code CONTESSA. Shopify handles all facets of business so that you don’t have to use 10 different systems. Start your free trial at shopify.com/careercontessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
September 22, 202630 min
The "Fall Crunch": Why High Achievers Feel So Stuck This Time of Year
Feeling the pressure to make a big career move before the year ends? You're not alone. In this episode, licensed clinical psychologist Anne Josephson explains why ambitious professionals often mistake burnout for clarity during the "Fall Crunch"—and shares practical, evidence-based strategies to manage anxiety, quiet overthinking, and make career decisions with confidence instead of urgency. You'll learn: How to tell the difference between burnout-driven impulsivity and a genuine desire for career change. Why tying your self-worth to productivity fuels anxiety—and how to break the cycle. Practical CBT and DBT techniques to reduce overwhelm, improve focus, and feel more grounded during high-pressure seasons. Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: https://uptownpsychologyny.com/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at tumbleliving.com /CONTESSA #Tumble #ad Visit Carawayhome.com/ CONTESSA to take an additional 10% off your next purchase.This deal is exclusive for our listeners, so visit Carawayhome.com/ CONTESSA or use code CONTESSA at checkout. Take back control of your business today. Open a Found account for FREE at Found.com Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
September 15, 202634 min
Your Thoughtload Is Sabotaging Your Focus: 3 Ways to Reset
Feel busy all day but still behind? It’s not your time—it’s your mental overload. In this episode, Lauren talks with Liane Davey, author of Thoughtload, about how to reduce overwhelm and work more effectively. You’ll learn: Why being busy doesn’t equal being productive How to protect your focus and reduce distractions One simple shift to get more done this week Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: https://lianedavey.com/books/thoughtload/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Go to granola.ai/CONTESSA and try Granola on your next call. Ready to make it part of your routine? Go to Timeline.com/CONTESSA20 to shop the full-size Timeline Mitopure Resurfacing Exfoliator and save up to 20% Thanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/ CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury. Or visit Sephora.com, search Ogee, and shop the Crystal Contour Collection today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
September 8, 202639 min
The Career Reset No One Talks About After 40
Your 40s are supposed to feel like you’ve “made it.” So why does it often feel like a reset? In this episode, Lauren talks with Stacey Lindsay, author of Being 40, about why midlife can spark a major career shift—and how to navigate it with clarity and confidence. You’ll learn: Why your 40s can trigger a career reset How to know when it’s time to pivot What success can look like next Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: https://www.amazon.com/Being-40-Letting-Go-Embracing/dp/0593831195 https://www.staceylindsay.com/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Head to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA at checkout for $20 off your membership. Get 100+ biomarkers tested every year, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod Unlock your best hair & skin with @iRestorelaser and HUGE savings on iRESTORE with code CONTESSA at irestore.com/CONTESSA! #irestorepod Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/CONTESSA! #honeylovepod Start your free trial at shopify.com/careercontessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
September 1, 202632 min
Why “Just Learn AI” Is Bad Advice (And What to Do Instead)
AI is everywhere right now—and so is the pressure to “figure it out.” If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or behind, you’re not alone. In this episode, Lauren sits down with Jill Ozovek to unpack what’s really driving AI anxiety—especially for knowledge workers—and why it’s less about technology and more about identity. They break down the biggest misconceptions about “learning AI,” and how to start experimenting in a way that actually feels manageable. You’ll learn: Why AI anxiety is really about identity—not just new technology The difference between using AI vs. building AI (and why it matters) Simple, realistic ways to start using AI without feeling overwhelmed Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Website: www.mvpclub.ai Join the community: https://mvp-club.mn.co/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Use code CONTESSA at oakessentials.com to get 15% off your first purchase! #OakEssentials #ad Visit Carawayhome.com/ CONTESSA to take an additional 10% off your next purchase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
August 25, 202633 min
How to Build a Meaningful Career Without Following Your Passion
Is "follow your passion" actually bad career advice? Lauren sits down with bestselling author Tom Rath to discuss why passion isn't the key to fulfillment—and how contribution, strengths, and impact can lead to more meaningful work. You'll learn: Why "follow your passion" is often misleading—and what to focus on instead when making career decisions. How shifting your attention from personal fulfillment to contribution can create more meaning and satisfaction at work. The small, practical questions you can ask yourself to find purpose, strengthen your impact, and build a happier career in the age of AI. Show Notes: Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Tom Rath website: https://tomrath.org/ What’s the Point book: https://tomrath.org/whats-the-point Strengths Finder Book: https://tomrath.org/book-strengthsfinder Career Contessa Resources: Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code CONTESSA at https://branchbasics.com/CONTESSA #branchbasicspod Limited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with my code [Career] at huel.com/[Career]. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! Thanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/ CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
August 18, 202631 min
The New Career Skill No One Talks About: Agility (AQ)
Uncertainty at work is everywhere—from AI shifts to layoffs to constant change. But how you respond to it can shape your career. In this episode, Lauren sits down with executive coach Liz Tran to explore AQ (Agility Quotient) —the skill of navigating change with confidence. You’ll learn how to understand your response to uncertainty and build the mindset to adapt. You’ll learn: Why AQ matters more than IQ or EQ in today’s workplace The 4 Agility Archetypes—and what yours says about you Simple ways to respond (not react) when things feel uncertain Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources: Quiz: https://liz-tran.com/ Book: https://liz-tran.com/aq-book/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liztranwrites/ Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors: Start your free trial at shopify.com/careercontessa today. Take back control of your business today. Open a Found account for FREE at Found.com. Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Is this your show?
Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.
