CPI College to Careers Podcast

Hosted by Career Professionals of Iowa

Business CareersInterviews guests

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Episodes

Latest episode

May 2025

Language

EN-US

About the show

The vision of the CPI College to Careers podcast is to create a space where we as Career Services professionals can share our knowledge in a fun and accessible format by bringing on dynamic professionals within the field and frequent employer partners of our institutions. Each episode we interview either a Career Services professional or an amazing employer of our students and alumni.

Listen to episodes

15 recent

May 20, 2025Episode 342 min

S4E3: Career Detours and Discoveries: A Conversation with Lisa Rude

In this episode of the College to Careers podcast, we sit down with Lisa Rude to explore her inspiring and insightful career journey. From college decisions to career pivots, Lisa shares how her early life experiences shaped her professional path and how changing jobs—and even entire workplaces—opened new doors for growth. She dives into the transferable skills she didn't even realize she was building as a young adult and how they now play a key role in what she does every day. Whether you're a student figuring it all out or a professional navigating your next move, Lisa's story is full of relatable lessons, practical advice, and a reminder that every chapter builds toward where you're meant to be. Edited by Jason Rude, HistoryBridge Productions

May 20, 2025Episode 245 min

S4E2: From Biology to Business: Deneb Woods' Data-Driven Pivot

In this episode of the College to Careers Podcast, host Miriam Skrade chats with Deneb Woods, the owner of Point Data Consulting. Deneb's career started with a biology degree and a future in science—but life had other plans. When an opportunity arose to work remotely for a business data consulting firm, she took the leap. What started as a supporting role eventually turned into business ownership. Deneb shares her journey from science labs to spreadsheets, the ups and downs of running a remote business, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Whether you're considering a career change or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of data consulting, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and a great story of professional growth. Learn more about Point Data Consulting: https://www.pointdataconsulting.com Edited by Jason Rude, HistoryBridge Productions

April 8, 2025Episode 159 min

S4E1: Brittany Todd, R.E.S.E.T. Conference

In the latest episode of the College to Careers podcast, Miriam Skrade talks with Brittany Todd, owner of Mill Street Mocha in Decorah, Iowa, and organizer of the R.E.S.E.T. Conference, which will be taking place April 21st and 22nd. Learn more about Brittany's nonlinear career journey and hear advice about how to live with a RESET Mindset to avoid burnout. Edited by Jason Rude, HistoryBridge Productions.

April 12, 2024Episode 328 min

S3E3: Tammy Stegman, Mary Greeley Medical Center

In the latest episode of the College to Careers podcast, Bobbi Sullivan receives tips for how employees can start off strong from Tammy Stegman of Mary Greeley Medical Center. Learn how to prepare for your first day, how to make a positive first impression, and how to stand out from your peers in your first year.

March 25, 2024Episode 221 min

S3E2: Joann Mulholland, Iowa Law

In this episode of the College to Careers podcast, Natalie Knowlton chats with Joann Mulholland, a student of the University of Iowa College of Law and former Career Coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa's Career Services. Joann gives unique advice and insight into career pivots and the experience of going to law school as a person with 7+ years of work experience in higher education. Listen in as Natalie and Joann chat about Joann's decision to pivot careers and law students' mental health.

January 26, 2024Episode 127 min

S3E1: Jeff Staton, Renewable Energy Group at Chevron

During this episode of the College to Careers podcast, Bobbi Sullivan hears perspectives on career building from Jeff Staton of Renewable Energy Group at Chevron. Determine what quarter your career is in and how to view career progression in a healthy way. Don't miss tips on how to standout in the workplace from an experienced, senior-level human resources leader.

December 4, 2023Episode 518 min

S2E5: Tanner Mote, Principal Financial Group

During this episode of the College to Careers podcast, Bobbi Sullivan discusses career mobility with Tanner Mote of Principal Financial Group. Listen as Tanner and Bobbi share stories of their career journeys as well as how they encourage others to lean into their interests and strengths. You will discover a major is just a starting point for a career!

November 27, 2023Episode 430 min

S2E4: Kristin Tague, Pella

In this episode of the College to Careers podcast, Bobbi Sullivan sits down to chat with Kristin Tague of Pella Corporation about the importance and evolving nature of company culture. Kristin has held many HR roles, but currently serves as the Head of Talent Acquisition & Talent Development for Pella Corporation. Listen as Bobbi and Kristin discuss how to spot a company's culture during the hiring process, company culture post pandemic, and what students should be asking or looking for during their job search.

November 2, 2023Episode 327 min

S2E3: Christopher White, Wellmark

Bobbi is back with another episode dedicated to strengths in the workplace! Christopher White, Employee Experience Manager at Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Des Moines Iowa is our featured guest for Episode 3. Listen in as Bobbi and Christopher discuss the importance of knowing your strengths in the workplace and what makes Wellmark stand out as an employer.

October 20, 2023Episode 221 min

S2E2: Matthew McDonald, Athene

As part of this episode, Bobbi Sullivan, Assistant Director of Business Career Services at Iowa State University, converses with Matt McDonald, Director of Talent Acquisition at Athene. Through their conversation, Matt highlights the importance of internships for both students and employers as well as spotlights attributes of impactful internship programs.