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The NoDegree Podcast – No Degree Success Stories for Job Searching, Careers, and Entrepreneurship

The NoDegree Podcast – No Degree Success Stories for Job Searching, Careers, and Entrepreneurship

Hosted by Jonaed Iqbal

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Episodes

212

Latest episode

Jul 2024

Language

EN

About the show

No Degree? No Problem! The NoDegree Podcast helps those without degrees figure out the opportunities that are available to them. Get career advice and learn how to navigate and succeed without a degree. NoDegree interviews successful people without college degrees to figure out what made them successful. Learn how they got into their respective fields and listen to the advice they have so you can follow in their path.

Listen to episodes

60 recent
July 24, 202446 min

From Sales Rep to CEO in 18 Months: Johnny Page's lessons to GET PROMOTED | E214

Johnny Page shares his journey from working as a straight-commission sales rep to becoming the CEO of SaaS Academy. He talks about the importance of taking risks and learning transferable skills, as well as the mindset of treating the company as one’s own. He emphasizes the importance of taking initiative, building trust, and exhibiting leadership before earning a title. He also discusses the value of working with people and organizations that align with your values and goals. He outlines his transition from sales to leadership roles and the responsibilities that come with it.Key Points DiscussedTaking risks and learning transferable skills can lead to opportunities for growth and advancement in a company.Treating the company as your own and going above and beyond your role can build trust and open doors for leadership positions.Solving problems and finding ways to eliminate waste in your role can demonstrate your value and contribute to the success of the company.Building strong relationships with founders and key stakeholders can create opportunities for growth and influence in the company.Transitioning from sales to leadership roles requires delegating responsibilities, managing through data, and focusing on achieving outcomes through other people.Promotions and titles may not always be formal, but the responsibilities and influence of a leadership role can be earned through consistent performance and contribution.Positioning a company for sale involves strategic decision-making and aligning the team to maximize value and attract potential buyers. Take initiative and show leadership before earning a title.Build trust and work with people and organizations that align with your values and goals.Don't be afraid to ask for what you want and negotiate for equity or other opportunities.Believe in your value and the impact you can make in an organization.Timestamps00:00 Introduction: Becoming an Entrepreneur Without the Traditional Risk03:20 The Value of Commission-Only Jobs in Building Entrepreneurial Skills08:01 Transitioning from Sales to Leadership: Delegation and Data Management16:44 Building Trust and Relationships for Career Advancement19:09 Transitioning to CEO: Shifting into Team Building Mode23:16 The Natural Progression to CEO: Leading and Making Decisions23:38 Taking on More Responsibility at Silver Track26:02 Transitioning to a New Role After the Company Sale27:22 Becoming the CEO of SaaS Academy31:05 Transitioning to a Leadership Role at SaaS Academy36:47 Becoming the CEO of SaaS Academy42:02 Reflecting on Missed Opportunities and Taking InitiativeSupport/Contact Johnny:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnypage/Website: https://www.thejohnnypage.com/Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

July 15, 202437 min

Had encounters with the law? A look at Fair-Chance Hiring & Opportunities | E213

Jonaed interviews Khalilah KO Olokunola, a senior advisor for TalentNova and founder of Reengineering HR, about skills-first hiring and navigating the workforce for justice-impacted individuals. They discuss the challenges faced by justice-impacted individuals in finding employment, the importance of community support, the impact of Ban-the-Box policies, and the skills and certifications that justice-impacted individuals possess. They also explore the process of building confidence, the rights of justice-impacted individuals in the hiring process, and the future of fair-chance hiring. Khalilah shares insights into TalentNova, a platform that provides career tools and resources for justice-impacted individuals.Key Points DiscussedJustice-impacted individuals face unique challenges in finding employment, and community support is crucial in navigating the workforce.Ban-the-Box policies have been instrumental in giving justice-impacted individuals a fair chance at employment by removing questions about criminal records from job applications.Justice-impacted individuals possess valuable skills such as resilience, loyalty, teamwork, and leadership, which can be translated into the workplace.Listing jobs and certifications obtained while serving time can help fill employment gaps and showcase relevant experience and skills.Building confidence during the job search process is essential, and it can be achieved through community support, self-reflection, and positive language.Seeking out community-based organizations that provide resume assistance, interview coaching, and other resources can greatly benefit justice-impacted individuals.Knowing and exercising one's rights in the hiring process, such as when to disclose criminal history, can help level the playing field for justice-impacted individuals.The future of fair-chance hiring involves collaboration between employers, community organizations, and technology platforms to create opportunities and remove barriers for justice-impacted individuals.TalentNova is a platform that offers career tools, including resume and cover letter builders, interview courses, and coaching, to support justice-impacted individuals in their job search and career advancement.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Fair Chance Employment 03:03 Understanding Justice Impacted Individuals 08:40 The Impact of Ban the Box Policies 10:20 Uncovering the Hidden Skills of Justice Impacted Individuals 19:10 Building a Supportive Community for Successful Reentry 26:50 Career Growth Opportunities for Justice Impacted Individuals 31:28 Talent Nova: Career Tools and Support for Justice Impacted IndividualsSupport/Contact Khalilah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khalilahequipsWebsite: https://reengineeringhr.com/Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpcaTalentNova: https://talentnova.com/Dress for Success: https://dressforsuccess.org/ Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

July 9, 202441 min

12 Lies About College–Robert McGraw (EP90 Republished)

Many people he knew struggled to pay their mountain of debt. Although Robert McGraw graduated from college, from experience, he recognized that there was a lot that was wrong with the process of deciding to go to school.Listen in as he and Jonaed discuss his book, 12 Lies About College, and and why following your passions can sometimes work against you.Support/Contact Robert:LinkedInBooks mentioned:12 Lies About CollegeWant to get in touch with NoDegree? Listen to more podcast episodes here.Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with our CEO Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn. (Yes, he answers messages. Even if it takes some time to respond.)Connect with us on social media!LinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokRemember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at nodegree.com. Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

July 2, 202447 min

How a Dyslexic Introvert Became a Microsoft Cloud Architect | E211

From janitor to Cloud Architect at Microsoft, Reginald Davis’ journey shows the power of taking risks and believing in oneself.In this episode, he talks about being an introvert and his school experience as a dyslexic kid and the support he got from his mom and teachers. Tune in as he shares practical tips he used to boost his communication skills and how AI tools like Microsoft Copilot have helped to ease the stress of writing for him. He also emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding.Key Points Discussed:Dyslexia can present challenges in writing and communication, but with practice and support, individuals can improve their skills.Having a supportive network, including teachers, parents, and mentors, is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving success.Believing in oneself and taking risks can lead to long-term career growth and opportunities.It's important to focus on one's strengths and find ways to excel in areas where one has natural abilities.Navigating the workplace as an introvert can be challenging, but preparation and self-reflection can help in overcoming these challenges. AI tools like Microsoft Copilot can greatly assist individuals in improving their writing and communication skills, allowing them to overcome challenges and build their personal brand.Empathy and understanding are crucial in supporting individuals with different struggles, and private conversations can be more effective in offering help and support.Surrounding oneself with good people and focusing on personal growth are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success.Podcasts like DEM Tech Folks provide a platform for inclusive and authentic conversations about diverse experiences in the tech industry.Timestamps00:00 Reginald Davis' Journey: Overcoming Dyslexia and Introversion03:20 Strategies for Improving Communication Skills06:14 Understanding and Working with Learning Disabilities07:08 Recognizing Strengths for Success10:34 The Power of Problem-Solving Abilities22:42 Breaking into Microsoft: Experience and Support23:29 Taking Risks and Betting on Yourself25:24 The Power of AI Tools26:15 Authenticity, Diversity, and Inclusivity in the Tech Industry29:03 Empathy and Understanding: Supporting Others33:26 Building a Personal Brand and Inspiring OthersSupport/Contact Reginald:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-j-davis-mcsa-mct-itil-prosci-970ba77/ DEM Tech Folks: https://linktr.ee/developeverymindBooks and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

June 25, 202439 min

From His Living Room in Lagos, Nigeria to Olympic Table Tennis Champion | EP210 (EP62 Republished)

The youngest of six siblings, Olajide Omotayo‘s love for the game started at the age of nine. Years of training paid when he won the Men’s Singles at the 2019 African Games. As current Champion of African he competed in this year’s Tokyo Olympics.Listen in as he shares his story with Jonaed.Want to get in touch and/or support Olajide?LinkedInInstagramFacebookTwitterWebsite Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

June 18, 202432 min

Get Paid More: Become a Salary Negotiation Pro with These Guidelines – Brandon Bramley | E209

Lead Negotiator, Brandon Bramley, addresses common concerns that arise during this critical recruitment stage. Brandon and Jonaed dispel typical myths about job offer negotiation, discuss the importance of leverage, and provide insights on when and how to negotiate. They stress the importance of research, preparation, and professionalism during such discussions. They also highlight the potential for substantial increases in total compensation and the need to showcase value and advocate for oneself. Key Points DiscussedEmployers are often willing to negotiate job offers, so it's important to advocate for yourself and not be afraid to ask for more.Leverage in negotiations comes from the fact that companies have invested time and resources in the hiring process and want to secure their chosen candidate.Having another offer can provide internal leverage and confidence, but it's not always necessary for successful negotiation.Negotiating salary is a professional conversation, not a confrontational bartering technique. It should be approached with research, data, and a reasonable request.Job titles and degree requirements should not limit negotiation potential. It's important to focus on the value and skills you bring to the table.Successful negotiation can lead to significant increases in total compensation and career advancement. Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Salary Negotiation and Guest Introduction (03:16) Debunking Common Myths About Job Offer Negotiations 05:08 Understanding Leverage and Power Dynamics in Negotiations(07:29) Strategies for Negotiating Job Offers with Confidence (09:25) The Importance of Demonstrating Value in Negotiations 15:29 Negotiating Salary Without a Degree: Breaking the Myth Support/Contact Brandon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonbramleyWebsite: https://www.thesalarynegotiator.com/Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

June 11, 202442 min

Earn $75k-$90k as a Data Analyst WITHOUT a College Degree–Jahmar Gale | E208 (EP135 republishe)

In high school he wanted to be a rapper. And that’s what Jahmar Gale did for 10 years. But he had a plan: if he didn’t achieve the kind of lifestyle he wanted by the time he was 30, he’d get out of the entertainment industry. So that’s what he did.Listen in as Jahmar tells Jonaed about how he:Was a rapper for 10 yearsStarted and scaled 2 businessesBecame a data analyst earning between $75,000 and $90,000 per year Support/Contact Jahmar:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahmargale/Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpcaLeRon’s article: https://medium.com/@jahmargale/how-i-became-a-data-analyst-458b03e438bbUdemy Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/the-complete-sql-bootcamp/ Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

June 4, 202438 min

From 1.1 GPA Highschooler to 6-Figure Software Developer–Marcus Young | EP207

Ever wonder what it's like to break into the tech world without a fancy college degree? Marcus shares his journey from barely graduating high school to becoming a self-taught developer. Forget the typical route —Marcus shares how he went from dreaming about mechanical engineering to hitting up a coding bootcamp and scoring interviews with a killer resume. He dishes out real talk on what it takes to be job-ready versus just interview-ready and shares why knowing your tech stuff inside out is key. Plus, Marcus and Jonaed get into the nitty-gritty of DIY projects, leveling up your skills, and dodging the pitfalls of bouncing between jobs. So, if you're curious about cracking the code to a career in tech, tune in for some straight-up wisdom and hindsight advice from these two pros.Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction to the episode and today's guest, Marcus Young  (1:30) Marcus Young's background and struggles with job applications  (4:11) The reality of boot camp promises versus job market realities  (7:24) Marcus' experience with Hack Reactor boot camp  (9:41) The importance of self-learning beyond boot camp  (12:22) Addressing the lack of a college degree during interviews  (15:03) Sponsor: Get Your Dream Career Course  (15:56) Learning and upskilling techniques  (19:51) Importance of personal projects in tech  (25:51) Financial implications of job transitions  (36:56) Closing remarks and gratitude  (37:19) Sponsor: Support NoDegree on Patreon Key points discussed:The job market in 2023 and 2024 is challenging, with limited job opportunities and companies not investing as much.Having a good resume is crucial in getting interviews and standing out in a competitive job market.Being job-ready and interview-ready are two different things, and it's important to have a foundational knowledge of the technologies you work with.Projects and self-learning outside of formal education can be valuable in gaining practical skills and deepening understanding. Building your own projects is a valuable way to learn and grow as a developer.Upskilling and expanding your knowledge in different technologies can make you more competent and resourceful.Job hopping can have its pros and cons, and it's important to weigh the stability and long-term prospects of each opportunity.The job interview process can be challenging, and it's important to be prepared and adaptable.Reflecting on past mistakes and learning from them is crucial for personal and professional growth.Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for overall well-being and success.Support/Contact Marcus:-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusyoung777/Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

May 29, 20241 hr 5 min

How this Latina College Drop Out Worked at Adobe, Disney and Google—Alejandra Ayala | E206 (E68 Republished)

Her parents weren’t worried about her education. But it’s not because they didn’t care. Alejandra Ayala is Mexican and says her immigrant parents’ main concern was to ensure they were providing a roof over their kids’ head.Listen in as Alejandra tells Jonaed why she finally gave up on college and how an unlikely skill helped her to land jobs at places like Adobe, Disney and Google.Get in touch and/or support Alejandra here:LinkedIn Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

May 21, 202436 min

Newspaper Boy to World-Famous Soccer Agent: How You Can Do It Too–John Viola | E205

He got his start as an entrepreneur at the age of eight. He had a newspaper route. Today, John Viola is a successful soccer agent. This week he discusses the challenges faced and mistakes made along the way and emphasizes the importance of passion and hard work in achieving success. John also highlights the impact of AI in the soccer industry and the opportunities it presents. He shares inspiring stories of players he has represented and the satisfaction he derives from helping them achieve their dreams. John aims to pass on his knowledge and mentor aspiring soccer agents through his academy.Key Points DiscussedPassion and hard work are keys to success in any career.Mistakes are opportunities for growth and learning.The soccer industry is constantly evolving, and embracing new technologies like AI can lead to new opportunities.Helping others achieve their dreams can be incredibly rewarding.A college degree is not a prerequisite for success in the soccer agent industry.Timestamps00:00 Introduction: From Selling Newspapers to Becoming a Top Soccer Agent 01:28 The Role of a Soccer Agent: Negotiating Contracts, Scouting Players, and Networking 04:10 Transitioning Careers: From Electrician to Financial Services to Soccer Agent 06:31 Becoming a FIFA Agent and Building a Successful Career 11:22 The Evolution of the Football Industry: Changes and the Impact of Technology 14:19 Overcoming Challenges: Perseverance and Learning from Mistakes 23:45 Inspiring Stories: Helping Players Achieve Their Dreams 26:12 Navigating Difficult Times: Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated 27:36 Teaching and Mentoring: Passing on Knowledge to Aspiring Soccer Agents 29:04 Opportunities for Aspiring Soccer Agents: Fast-Tracking Careers and Building Success 32:28 An Inspirational Story: From McDonald's Delivery Guy to Successful Soccer Agent 35:22 Final Thoughts: Pursuing Passion and Finding Fulfillment in the Soccer Agent Industry Support/Contact John:-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-viola-8a642641/-Website: https://www.451fc.com/ Books and resources mentioned in this podcast:Resume course: https://bit.ly/podcastpca Need career or resume advice? Follow and/or connect with Jonaed Iqbal on LinkedIn.- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed Connect with us on social media!- Instagram: @nodegreecareers- TikTok: @nodegree Thank you for sponsoring our show. If you'd like to support our mission to end the stigma and economic disparity that comes along with not having a college degree, please share with a friend, or drop us a review on Apple Podcast. Remember, no degree? No problem! Whether you're contemplating college or you're a college dropout, get started with your no-degree job search at NoDegree.com.

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