Elevate Your Career

What if the key to career growth isn’t chasing titles but embracing vulnerability and stepping into challenges? In this episode of Elevate Your Career, Nicole speaks with Amber Senteno, an inspiring Chief Information Officer, about the moments that defined her career and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Amber opens up about the power of authenticity, the importance of taking care of yourself, and why leaning into discomfort leads to growth.

Amber dives into how building a personal brand, fostering innovation, and embracing failure have shaped her leadership journey. She provides actionable advice for navigating challenges, growing beyond roles, and balancing ambition with self-care. Whether you’re climbing the ladder or redefining your path, this episode offers tools to elevate your career and find fulfillment.

In This Episode You Will Learn:

• The value of diversifying yourself and seeking opportunities that challenge you to grow
• Why focusing on your people first is the foundation for successful leadership
• Vulnerability as a strength and a gateway to fostering innovation
• The importance of building your personal brand and prioritizing self-care
• How small, consistent actions can create long-term professional growth
• Embracing failure as a natural part of growth and learning to move forward with grace
• And much more…

Resources:

Amber’s LinkedIn

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Ashish Regmi, the Chief Information Officer of University Advancement and Alumni Relations at the University of California, Irvine.

In this conversation, you'll gain insights on adapting to career transitions that highlight the value of being open to change and new responsibilities. Discover the balance between technical skill development and leadership growth, revealing how both are crucial for success in today’s rapidly advancing fields.

Ashish shares timeless strategies for career resilience, even in a future marked by uncertainty. You'll learn about the importance of personal branding, continuous learning, and mastering stakeholder relationships, as well as handling the change that new technologies bring.

This episode offers wisdom on navigating the intersections of technology, leadership, and life goals.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of leaders laying a vision for their teams to follow. 
• Why Ashish believes that working hard is essential but not sufficient; one must also promote their work and skills. 
• The impact of his work on philanthropic technologies and alumni engagement at UC Irvine.
• Why saying yes to opportunities and continuously updating technical and leadership skills is vital.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Ashish's LinkedIn

University of California, Irvine - University Advancement & Alumni Relations

Ever wondered how a diverse career path, filled with unexpected mentors and varied roles, can shape your journey to the top? John Henderson, Chief Information Officer at Children’s Hospital Orange County, shares how his unique background in teaching, finance, and tech paved the way for his success in healthcare leadership.

In this episode of Elevate Your Career, host Nicole delves into the career journey of John Henderson. From his early days working in a mailroom to executive roles in healthcare technology, John’s career highlights the value of diverse experiences and the crucial role of mentorship. He recalls pivotal moments with advocates like Curtis George and Myra Davis, who shaped his approach to leadership and growth. He shares insights from his work across business applications, infrastructure, and clinical systems, underscoring how adaptability and hands-on experience have been key to his success. Through his journey, John illustrates the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities, building strong relationships, and developing a flexible leadership style.

Tune in to this episode to uncover invaluable career insights and discover how broad experiences and mentorship can elevate your career.

• The impact of early experiences on leadership styles
• How a background in different fields can enhance adaptability and growth
• The power of mentors and advocates in career advancement
• John’s transition from finance and teaching to healthcare technology
• Key strategies for building strong, effective teams
• Leadership principles grounded in empathy and direct communication
• The importance of taking risks and seizing opportunities
• And so much more...

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Bryan Muehlberger, currently the Global Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Lumiyo, and former CIO and CTO at notable companies such as Vuori, Red Bull, and The Beachbody Company.

During the episode, Nicole and Bryan explore the remarkable journey that led him to become a prominent figure in their industry. You'll learn the unexpected twists and turns that shaped his career, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to forge your own path in a field that often emphasizes structure and convention. 

Bryan offers an intriguing look at how he identified a gap in the support available to executives in his industry and took proactive steps to build something truly valuable from the ground up. The conversation also offers practical advice for those just starting their careers or looking to ascend to executive roles. 

This episode provides you with candid insights on embracing challenges and taking the road less traveled, encouraging you to step outside traditional expectations in order to grow.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Bryan's early interest in technology and his transition from aeronautical engineering to computer science.
• The stigma surrounding career gaps and the importance of having a diverse range of experiences.
• Bryan's experience creating a CXO networking group for CIOs and CTOs.
• The need for a more flexible approach to education and the value of real-world experience.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Bryan's LinkedIn

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Sanjay Macwan, an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer for Vonage.

During the conversation, Sanjay shares his impressive journey from a hands-on software developer to becoming a leader in the tech world. His path wasn’t just defined by technical expertise, but by a deep love for his work and a willingness to take risks, even when the next steps weren’t always clear. 

You'll discover his key principles for leadership and success, as well as the significance of building trust and maintaining a solid foundation of knowledge. This balance allows leaders to confidently guide teams while staying open to learning from others.

This episode offers a wealth of inspiration for anyone aspiring to reach leadership roles or simply aiming to make a meaningful impact in their field.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The value of being willing to learn from failures and why learning from them is not a natural process for everyone.
• Sanjay's approach to teaching leadership, such as the need for CIOs and CISOs to understand business aspects and partner with other teams.
• Why leaders need to focus on how technology solutions can help businesses rather than just the technical details.
• Sanjay's advice for aspiring leaders, including doing what you love, ensuring a solid foundation in your field and building trust.

Resources:

Vonage

Sanjay's LinkedIn

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Wasi Ahmed, Chief Information Officer for Foundation Building Materials, a leading building materials and construction product distribution company.

During the conversation, Wasi discusses his journey of building a successful career in the tech industry, sharing insights from both triumphs and regrets along the way. You'll discover the importance of not getting too comfortable in a role and the value of continuously seeking new challenges to foster growth.

Wasi and Nicole also touch on career development, exploring the debate around traditional education versus boot camps for tech professionals. You'll hear Wasi's perspective on the necessity of a well-rounded education, stressing that it offers a broader framework and the ability to pivot in one’s career.

This episode provides advice for those looking to move into leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of versatility and a comprehensive understanding of different facets of technology.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of internships and the challenges faced by current university students in securing careers.
• Wasi's approach to leadership, focusing on partnership and trust rather than micromanagement.
• The potential future of AI and its impact on various industries.
• The importance of education and the value of a well-rounded education in building a successful career.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Wasi's LinkedIn

Foundation Building Materials

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Ben Patterson, a recent college graduate who has already made waves with his insightful perspectives on career development.

Throughout the conversation, the importance of relationship-building and networking emerges as a key theme, offering listeners a fresh perspective on how to approach the early stages of their professional lives.

You'll discover how persistence and maintaining genuine relationships with mentors and colleagues can foster career growth. Ben illustrates how guidance from those around you can play a critical role in shaping both personal and professional paths.

For anyone interested in understanding how to leverage relationships and develop a strong foundation for future career achievements, this conversation offers a roadmap built on practical advice and real-world examples.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Ben's decision to attend a high-caliber private school and how he was unsure of his major when applying to universities.
• The importance of internships in securing a full-time position after graduation, especially in the current job market.
• Why networking and building relationships are crucial for securing internships and job opportunities.
• The importance of being deeply rooted in a company and building strong relationships with colleagues and upper management.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Matthew Pagano, Chief Financial Officer for Pan-Pacific Mechanical.

During the conversation, Nicole and Matthew engage in a thoughtful conversation about the complexities of leadership, personal development, and navigating a high-stakes business environment. Matthew emphasizes the importance of humility and collaboration in leadership, particularly within large organizations.

You'll gain actionable advice for those pursuing ambitious career paths, emphasizing the power of incremental progress and surrounding oneself with value-driven individuals. Matthew also discusses the balance between professional rigor and personal passions, offering insights on how creative outlets can provide the mental reset needed to stay focused and motivated.

This episode offers a glimpse into the mindset of a successful leader, blending business acumen with a deeply personal perspective on growth, balance, and legacy.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Matthew's early success in music, including playing worship music and forming a band called Manic Blue.
• The value of continuous learning and the impact of being surrounded by successful individuals.
• The significance of having a supportive network and the role of mentors in personal and professional growth.
• The importance of having a track record of sticking to commitments and grinding through challenges.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Pan-Pacific Mechanical

Matthew's LinkedIn

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Davida Johnson, Executive Director for the UCLA Office of Advanced Research Computing (OARC).

During the conversation, Nicole and Davida explore the power of mentorship and its impact on career growth and personal development. You'll learn how strong mentors can significantly influence one's success, particularly when those mentors act as both advocates and coaches.

You'll also discover the unique challenges and dynamics of working in highly competitive industries, where leadership and decision-making play pivotal roles in success. Davida shares personal experiences navigating a demanding and often ruthless work environment, and the need to stay true to one's values while contributing to business goals.

This episode highlights the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals, offering a reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to fulfillment and lasting impact.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How mentorship styles can differ between genders and how addressing these biases can create more balanced leadership development for both men and women.
• Insights into working in high-pressure industries where success can often depend on navigating office politics and maintaining integrity.
• The value of aligning your career with mission-driven work, as illustrated through a personal journey from corporate life to higher education and community service.
• How setting specific, long-term career goals and staying focused can lead to achieving your desired outcomes, even if the path takes time and persistence.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Davida's LinkedIn

Irvine Technology Corporation

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast, Nicole is joined by Bill Charles, a Chief Information Officer from the East Coast who took a bold leap, relocating to California to pursue new opportunities.

During the conversation, Bill and Nicole take a deep dive into the importance of networking and building professional relationships throughout one's career. You'll gain insights on how maintaining a strong network can not only help in navigating day-to-day challenges but also play a crucial role when looking to advance in one's career.

You'll discover the value of taking risks and exploring new opportunities, especially early in a career. Bill reflects on his own career trajectory, sharing how stepping out of his comfort zone and pursuing diverse experiences across different organizations allowed him to grow and reach higher levels of success.

This episode offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to advance their career while maintaining a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Why maintaining a strong professional network is crucial for career advancement.
• The benefits of taking calculated risks in your career, especially when young.
• Why it's essential to love what you do while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• The importance of reaching out for help when facing obstacles in your career.
• The significance of giving back by mentoring others in your field.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Irvine Technology Corporation