CareerCast by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business

What if rejection is not a setback, but a skill? In this episode of CareerCast, host Anita Brick speaks with bestselling author Jia Jiang about what it really takes to hear "no," recover quickly, and keep moving toward what matters most. Drawing from the lessons behind Rejection Proof and Easy Discipline, Jia shares practical strategies for asking more boldly, managing the emotional sting of rejection, and building habits that make consistent action easier.

Grounded in real experience and immediately useful, this conversation goes beyond inspiration to offer tools listeners can apply in their careers right away—whether they are pursuing a promotion, navigating uncertainty, making a pivot, or trying to strengthen their confidence under pressure. For anyone who wants to become more resilient, disciplined, and effective in the face of challenge, this is a conversation worth hearing.

On this episode of CareerCast, host Anita Brick sits down with economist and Hate the Game author Daryl Fairweather for a candid, insight-rich conversation about why success is rarely as straightforward as it looks — and what you can do about it. Daryl has spent her career studying the systems and incentives that shape how markets — and people — behave. She brings that same analytical lens to the world of work, revealing the hidden dynamics behind who gets opportunities, who gets overlooked, and why. Anita draws out the best of it — asking the right questions and pushing for the practical takeaways that actually move the needle. Together they cover negotiating, positioning yourself, knowing when to pivot, and understanding the forces that shape who gets ahead. Grounded, honest, and worth your time. This is the kind of conversation to share with someone you know who's ready to make a better move.

Ready to feel "A Little More Social"? In this CareerCast episode, renowned host and trusted career strategist Anita Brick sits down with Nicholas Epley, one of the world's leading experts on how we think about—and misread—other people. Known for helping high-achieving professionals navigate bold, human-centered career choices, Anita guides a lively, practical conversation around Epley's latest book, A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness, Health, and Connection. Together, they unpack simple behavioral insights that turn awkward moments into authentic connection. From elevator small talk to networking nerves, you'll discover why reaching out could feel risky (even in safe environments), why it usually isn't, and how small social choices can reshape your work, relationships, and overall well-being. Expect surprising research, practical tools, and a fresh invitation to make your life just a little more social—and a lot more satisfying.

Discover one woman's extraordinary journey in the next CareerCast episode, "From Overdose to CEO." Acclaimed host, Anita Brick, sits down with Kerry Siggins, CEO of StoneAge, Inc. and author of Talk with Trust, to explore how a near-fatal overdose in 2006 became the turning point that transformed her life, leadership, and career. Kerry shares how embracing an ownership mindset, leading an employee-owned company, and facing health setbacks with humility and resilience shaped the way she leads today. Learn how she reframed shame into strength, built a culture of accountability, and continues to inspire others through her speaking, writing, and Reflect Forward podcast. If you're ready to rethink what's possible after facing a life-altering challenge—and to lead with greater courage, clarity, and responsibility—don't miss this powerful conversation on CareerCast.

Discover one woman's extraordinary journey in the next CareerCast episode, "From Overdose to CEO." Acclaimed host, Anita Brick, sits down with Kerry Siggins, CEO of StoneAge, Inc. and author of Talk with Trust, to explore how a near-fatal overdose in 2006 became the turning point that transformed her life, leadership, and career. Kerry shares how embracing an ownership mindset, leading an employee-owned company, and facing health setbacks with humility and resilience shaped the way she leads today. Learn how she reframed shame into strength, built a culture of accountability, and continues to inspire others through her speaking, writing, and Reflect Forward podcast. If you're ready to rethink what's possible after facing a life-altering challenge—and to lead with greater courage, clarity, and responsibility—don't miss this powerful conversation on CareerCast.

Unlock a powerful, often overlooked driver of career acceleration: your inner narrative. In this CareerCast, host Anita Brick—recognized for her sharp insight and deep commitment to helping business professionals navigate complex careers—and Erika Alessandrini, author of Maybe It's Me, explore how examining your default reactions, quiet assumptions, and "success autopilot" can open up new strategic options. You'll learn how conscious choices—about feedback, conflict, and risk—can shift not only your trajectory, but also your leadership impact. If you're serious about leading at a higher level, this conversation will help you architect meaningful, sustainable change from the inside out.

Ready to elevate your professional impact on a corporate board? In the next Chicago Booth CareerCast, host Anita Brick welcomes Executive Coach Sandy Li for "Are You Corporate Board Ready?"—a highly practical conversation on landing corporate board seats. Together, they'll unpack how to translate your experience into a compelling board value proposition, identify the right boards for your profile, and build a targeted network that actually opens doors. You'll hear what boards really look for, how to package your story, and concrete steps you can take this year to move from interest to action with a focused board-readiness plan. Listen to previous CareerCast episodes at www.chicagobooth.edu/careercast.

Discover how setting clear boundaries can accelerate your career in "The Power of Boundaries," a compelling CareerCast episode from Chicago Booth. Host Anita Brick talks with leadership expert Sheri Jacobs about how boundaries protect your time, energy, and values—while strengthening relationships and performance at work. Learn practical strategies to say "no" with confidence, navigate difficult conversations, and create space for meaningful growth. Whether you're managing up, leading teams, or planning your next move, this episode offers actionable insights to thrive on your own terms. Listen to all available CareerCast episodes at www.chicagobooth.edu/careercast.

Build meaningful confidence with CareerCast, hosted by Anita Brick at Chicago Booth. In "How to Build Real Confidence," Christie Garcia, Founder of Mindful Choice Academy, outlines clear strategies for growing authentic self-assurance and tackling everyday challenges. Through practical tools and relatable stories, Christie explains how confidence is built, not inherited—helping you navigate setbacks and move forward intentionally. Whether you're advancing your career, leading a team, or exploring new opportunities, learn what true confidence looks like and how to develop it for lasting success. Listen to all available CareerCast episodes at www.chicagobooth.edu/careercast.

Unlock the power of applied modern leadership on CareerCast's next episode, "Transforming Kindness into Capital." Join Anita Brick in conversation with James Rhee, educator, investor, and author of The Red Helicopter. Discover non-obvious ways that kindness and trust fuel value creation in both people and enterprises. James shares hard-won wisdom from reviving Ashley Stewart and driving unexpected financial success. Explore the intersection of human connection and economic results, and learn practical strategies to elevate your career and organization. Don't miss this dynamic discussion on redefining goodwill to create tangible, lasting impact. Listen to previous CareerCast episodes at www.chicagobooth.edu/careercast.