Career Transitions

In this episode, we unpack one of the most talked-about topics in career transitions: networking—and how to do it authentically.

Whether you're a seasoned executive or exploring a new path, building meaningful connections can be a game-changer. But how do we move beyond transactional handshakes and LinkedIn connections to relationships that truly support and shape our careers?

Vanessa T and Vanessa I share personal stories, practical tips, and candid reflections on:

• Why networking is more than just a numbers game
• How to reach out in small but meaningful ways
• What a strong, diverse network looks and feels like
• Common pitfalls to avoid (hint: don't wait till you need something!)
• Why introverts often make the best networkers

💡 One of our favourite takeaways? Networking is about being intentional and valuing diversity—in backgrounds, viewpoints, and experiences.

Whether you're rekindling old connections or starting new ones, this episode will leave you inspired to build your network with purpose and heart.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this heartfelt episode of the Career Transitions Podcast, we reconnect with our very first guest and longtime mentor, Jean Balfour—Master Certified Coach and founder of Bailey Balfour. Jean joins us to reflect on her own remarkable career journey, from her early days in education, to corporate leadership, to founding a global coach training organization.

We have a great conversation about:

• Jean’s evolution from teacher to entrepreneur, and what led her to start her own coaching academy
• The emotional highs and lows of building a business—and the power of staying grounded through transitions
• How coaching unlocks emotional resilience at work and beyond
• Why shared humanity and empathy are essential leadership traits in the future of work
• Jean’s upcoming third act—including the tough decision to transition her coach training program and her exciting new book on emotional agility at work

Jean’s wisdom and warmth are as inspiring as ever. Whether you're navigating a career pivot, growing your leadership practice, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in change—this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen in as Jean reveals what’s next and shares her biggest lessons from a lifetime of learning, leading, and coaching.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this week's episode of the Career Transitions Podcast, Vanessa I. and Vanessa T. speak with James Feliciano, a seasoned senior executive, about his thriving career in Japan's pharmaceutical industry. James shares his unique insights on leadership, cultural navigation, and career evolution, drawing from his experiences as president and general manager of AbbVie Japan and his transition into a senior advisory role.

Discover James's advice on embracing international opportunities, balancing work and life, and the importance of trusting your intuition. He also discusses his passion for coaching and how it has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing the power of engagement, self-awareness, and continuous growth.

Whether you're considering an international move, navigating a career change, or seeking to enhance your leadership skills, this episode offers invaluable lessons and inspiration for your own journey

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this inspiring episode of the Career Transitions podcast, we welcome two extraordinary guests—Lee Peh Gee and Joanne Soo, members of the Singapore Women’s Everest Team. Their journey to the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain at 8,848 meters, is a testament to resilience, teamwork, and perseverance.

We often say that career transitions feel like climbing a mountain—filled with uncertainty, self-doubt, and the need for endurance. Who better to learn from than real mountaineers? Peh Gee and Joanne take us through their grueling five-year journey of preparation, their physical, mental, and emotional challenges, and the life lessons they gained along the way.

In this episode, we explore:

• How they trained for Everest—mentally, physically, and emotionally
• Overcoming self-doubt and external critics who questioned their ability
• The power of teamwork and enablers in achieving big goals
• How their experience translates to navigating career transitions
• The importance of preparation, clarity, and trusting the journey

Their story is a powerful metaphor for career growth and personal development, reminding us that the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Tune in for an episode filled with motivation, adventure, and practical insights to help you conquer your own Everest—whether it’s in your career or personal life.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this episode of the Career Transitions podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Eric Sim, thought leader, entrepreneur, author, and LinkedIn Top Voice with over 2.8 million followers. From his early days helping at his family's prawn noodle stall to leading at UBS Investment Bank as a managing director, Eric has built a career that defies limitations. Today, he is the founder of the Institute of Life, a platform dedicated to mentoring professionals in career growth, leadership, and personal branding.

Join us as we explore:

• Eric’s bold career transition from banking to becoming a global thought leader
• The challenges of reinventing your professional identity beyond a corporate title
• Why small, intentional actions are the key to big career success
• The power of social capital, storytelling, and building an authentic online brand
• How to navigate the "magical stage" of life where time, money, and health intersect
• His philosophy on investing in others and creating lasting impact

Eric’s journey is filled with practical wisdom, inspiring stories, and powerful takeaways for anyone looking to reinvent their career, build a strong personal brand, or embrace new opportunities.

Tune in now to learn how thinking big, starting small, and acting now can transform your career and life.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

Welcome to Season 5 of the Career Transitions podcast! We’re launching this season with an inspiring guest—Dorothy Yiu, CEO and Co-founder of Engage Rocket, a leading people analytics platform that helps organizations drive real-time insights into employee engagement, performance, and development.

Dorothy’s career journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From starting out in banking and consulting to making the bold leap into entrepreneurship, she co-founded Engage Rocket to address one of the biggest challenges in HR—how organizations leverage data to build better workplaces.

In this episode, we explore:

• Dorothy’s transition from corporate leadership to startup founder
• How people analytics can transform workplace culture and performance
• The key challenges companies face in driving employee engagement
• Why culture-building requires intentionality, consistency, and empowerment
• Dorothy’s experience as a working mother of two and her advocacy for Down syndrome awareness
• Her top lessons on resilience, adaptability, and building a portfolio career

Whether you’re navigating a career shift, looking to create impact as a leader, or curious about the future of HR and workplace analytics, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and inspiration you don’t want to miss.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this episode, we are joined by Angela Lane and Sergey Gorbatov, co-authors of the newly launched book Move Up or Move On and returning guests from Season 2 of the Career Transitions podcast. Angela and Sergey bring decades of experience in talent management, leadership development, and HR strategy, offering valuable insights on navigating careers in today's volatile and fragmented work environment.

Together, we explore:

• How the future of work is reshaping the psychological contract between employers and employees.
• The increasing need for workers to adapt to automation, AI, and a boundaryless workplace.
• Practical advice for professionals to remain relevant and future-proof their careers.
• Key concepts from Move Up or Move On, including building a career on your terms and the 10 practices to accelerate career growth.

Angela and Sergey also discuss the value of democratizing careers, providing actionable tips to overcome systemic barriers, and fostering transparency and honesty in organizational cultures.

Resources Mentioned:

• Move Up or Move On by Angela Lane and Sergey Gorbatov
• Fair Talk by Angela Lane and Sergey Gorbatov

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

What does the future of work look like in Singapore? 

Join us as we talk with Brian Tan, Deputy CEO of e2i, to uncover the key trends shaping the future of employment. 

From the rise of AI to the importance of soft skills and lifelong learning, Brian offers invaluable insights for both job seekers and employers. 

Discover how e2i is empowering Singapore's workforce to adapt and thrive in the face of change, with resources and initiatives designed to bridge skill gaps and promote career resilience. 

Tune in to learn how you can stay ahead of the curve and navigate the evolving world of work.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this insightful episode of the Career Transitions Podcast, we welcome Sonja Prokopec, Associate Dean of Faculty at ESSEC Business School Asia-Pacific and an internationally recognized expert in luxury marketing. With over 12 years of experience leading the LVMH Chair and as the current Academic Director of the Academy of Luxury at ESSEC, Sonja shares her expertise on the evolving dynamics of the luxury industry.

We explore how digital transformation and artificial intelligence are reshaping the luxury landscape. Sonja discusses the impact of these technologies on omni-channel experiences, customer personalization, and the future of luxury retail. She emphasizes the irreplaceable value of the human touch in delivering authentic luxury experiences, even in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Sonja also offers valuable insights into the skills needed for professionals in the luxury industry, highlighting the importance of integrating technical proficiency with creativity, communication, and cultural competence. Whether you're a professional in the luxury sector, an aspiring marketer, or someone curious about the future of luxury, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of AI and technology as supportive tools in enhancing, not replacing, the luxury customer experience.
• How the luxury industry is adapting to digital transformation and the rise of omni-channel strategies.
• The importance of soft skills, such as creativity and emotional intelligence, alongside technical expertise for future professionals in luxury marketing.
• Emerging trends in luxury marketing, including the growing importance of sustainability and community engagement, especially for younger consumers.

Connect with Sonja Prokopec:

• LinkedIn: Sonja Prokopec
• ESSEC Business School: ESSEC Asia-Pacific

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)

In this episode of the Career Transitions Podcast, we're joined by Maria Farrow, former Chief Human Resources Officer of Sephora. Maria brings a wealth of experience in driving innovative HR practices and navigating the evolving landscape of work. 

We discuss:

* The challenge of balancing leadership experience with the need for fresh, tech-savvy perspectives.

* How AI and automation are shaping the future workforce and the importance of continuous learning.

* Sephora's strong company culture and commitment to purpose, employee development, and a positive work environment. 

* Why purpose is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, especially among younger generations.

* Practical advice for future-proofing your career, including embracing lifelong learning and seeking purpose-driven organizations.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: 

·       Vanessa Iloste (Host)

·       Vanessa Teo (Host) 

·       Aaron Wu (Producer)