how to twenty-something

This episode guides you through a real rewind and reflection of my 2025 — the wins, the hard stuff, and how I’m using both to set more intentional goals for 2026. I share some of my biggest highlights, most painful losses, and help you pause, reflect on your own, and actually celebrate what you’ve done instead of brushing it off. I also walk you through how I’m setting goals for 2026 and share some pretty exciting announcements about what’s coming next (including my first ever TEDx Talk). My hope is that this episode helps you reflect with honesty, get clear on what you want, and feel excited about the version of you you’re walking into this year.

Key Takeaways:

• Walking away doesn’t mean you failed
• Why you need to look back before you can look ahead
• Where most people mess up when setting new years resolutions
• The different types of reflections
• How to set yourself up for the year ahead

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

What happens when nothing sounds like a good idea and you feel completely stuck in your life? This episode talks about how we usually end up in one of two places: the Land of No or the Land of I Don’t Know, and how both keep us stuck even though they look different. It’s filled with real stories from my life and my clients' lives and how we’ve worked to book our one way ticket out of these lands. If you feel like you’ve been the mayor of either land, this episode will help you start building momentum again and finding your way out.

Key Takeaways:

• The Land of No shows up when you reject every idea immediately because you’re trying to protect yourself from disappointment or failure.
• The Land of I Don’t Know disguises itself as overthinking, caution, or being “open-minded,” when it’s really fear of choosing wrong
• How being in a funk can keep you in your respective land
• The tiny actions you can take today to find your way out of your land.

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

If you’re always tired, you’re not alone, but you also might be the reason for your exhaustion. From shorter days and less sunlight to sitting for 10 hours straight, I explain how our modern world completely goes against the natural rhythms our bodies were built for. Getting around this exhaustion looks like getting back to the basics, while also recognizing that being an adult is exhausting!

Key Takeaways:

• Inheriting all of the responsibilities once held by your parents means all of the mental load falls on you
• Our society expects consistent productivity year-round, but humans were designed to ebb and flow with the seasons
• Sitting all day tells your body it only needs enough energy to sit — which is why you feel wiped out after work
• Everyone’s tired, but if you want to feel less drained, you have to master the basics: sleep, nutrition, and movement.

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

In this episode, I’m walking you through everything you need to know to prep for your next interview: what to do before, during, and after. I share how to make a strong first impression, the key research steps that’ll help you stand out, and how to answer common questions without sounding rehearsed. I also talk about managing nerves and how your body language can make or break your confidence. Plus, what to do after the interview so you keep learning and improving, no matter the outcome. My goal is to help you show up as the most prepared, confident, and professional version of yourself.. And not a robot.

Key Takeaways:

•  The more you research and practice, the more natural and relaxed you’ll feel going into the interview.
• Know the company’s mission, values, leadership, and recent projects and how to connect it back to you.
• Research the people interviewing you and find professional things in common
• Think of interviews as dress rehearsals until you find your perfect fit company
• Don’t forget to follow up after your interview is done!

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

Networking… something we all know we need to do, yet are so turned off by the idea of small talk and dead end connections. Which is why it’s time for you to learn how to network, redefine what it means to network, and how to build meaningful professional relationships that will help you achieve your career goals. Networking is for more than when you’re looking for a job, it’s part of every relationship you will ever have in your life. Dana Alfirevic, founder of Charlotte Networking Knowledge and a professional networking coach, breaks down all the inside knowledge you need to have when it comes to networking.

Key Takeaways:

• Why networking is important in your twenties 
• What effective networking looks like
• Everyone’s time is valuable; know why you’re connecting with someone
• Even professional relationships need to be reciprocal 
• The worst mistakes you can make when networking
• How to get yourself to show up when you really don’t want to
• The best conversation starters to avoid awkward silence 

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize

Email Me: [email protected]

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Connect with Dana Alfirevic:

Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/Charlottenetworkingknowledge   

Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/Charlottenetworkingknowledge   

Tiktok: https://www.TikTok.com/@Clt_networking_knowledge   

LinkedIn: https://www.Linkedin.com/in/Dana-Alfirevic

https://www.LinkedIn.com/company/charlotte-networking-knowledge      

Website: https://www.networkingknowledgeandgrowth.com 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

If you’ve ever called yourself lazy or felt guilty for not having the energy to keep up with your “good habits,” this episode is for you. Laziness gets a bad rap, but what if it’s actually a sign that your brain is trying to make life easier? In this episode, I share how to use your lazy tendencies to your advantage by creating systems that remove friction, reduce decision fatigue, and make your good habits effortless to maintain.

Key Takeaways:

• Laziness doesn’t mean you lack ambition, it means you’re trying to be efficient with your time and energy
• Your decision fatigue is making your good habits harder
• Good habits should work even when you’re tired, unmotivated, or out of routine
• Stop relying on discipline, willpower, and motivation – you’re setting yourself up for failure
• Automation, planning ahead, and reducing barriers make “lazy” the smartest strategy

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

Show notes

If you’ve ever caught yourself spiraling about outcomes that don’t even exist yet, you’re not alone. We all want answers before they’re ready to come, but that need for control only creates more anxiety. In this episode I share why this happens, how it shows up in different parts of your life, and what to do when you find yourself jumping the gun. 

Key Takeaways:

• How your fears and impatience is encouraging you to get ahead of yourself
• Brains predict outcomes to feel safe and in control (even if it doesn’t benefit you)
• Play out every good or bad scenario that feeds into your what ifs
• Jumping the gun actually means you’re early, not behind 

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to maximize your 5-9 after your 9-5: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/maximize 

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

In this episode, I talk about the fine line between being selfish in a healthy way… the kind that protects your energy and honors your needs and the kind that starts to isolate you or hurt the people around you.

In your twenties, everyone tells you to “put yourself first,” but few people teach you what that actually looks like in practice. So today, I unpack what it means to choose yourself without disconnecting from others, how to tell when your boundaries have become walls, and why true emotional maturity isn’t about always getting your way; it’s about being aware of your impact.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re being selfish or just self-respecting, this one’s for you

Key Takeaways:

• There’s a difference between protecting your peace and avoiding discomfort.
• Boundaries should connect you to yourself and make space for others, not push everyone away.
• “Selfish” isn’t always bad; sometimes it’s the first step toward learning what you need.
• Emotional maturity is noticing how your choices impact the people around you.
• Putting yourself first doesn’t mean you always come first.
• Healthy selfishness creates balance; unhealthy selfishness creates distance.

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to walk in a room with confidence: jessdiamondcoaching.com/confidence

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

How do you know if the person you’re with is your forever person? 

This episode dives into what to look for in your relationship and ends with the number one question you should ask yourself if you’re doubting your relationship’s longevity. Knowing when to walk away, how to manage conflict, what to look out for as red and green flags in your partner, and how to break the bad relationship patterns that keep following you.  Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Rebecca Williams, shares her insight and expertise to help you determine if your partner is the one or if it’s time to run.

Key Takeaways:

• Being selfish in a relational way
• Actions speak louder than words when it comes to conflict resolution
• Why your relationship patterns keep following you
• Why conflict isn’t bad, but a necessary part of any relationship
• What’s going on behind the rose colored glasses
• Are you comfortable or fulfilled in your relationship?
• Create your dream first and then decide if your partner matches that dream
• The number 1 question you should ask yourself if you’re doubting your relationship

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Walk into any room with confidence: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/confidence/ 

Email Me: [email protected]

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Connect with Rebecca Wiliams:

Website: www.iecouplescounseling.com 

Queer Mental Health Website: www.qmentalhealth.com

Podcast Website: www.notwhatithought.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccarelationshipexpert/ 

Facebook: NotWhatIThought podcast

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US 

Friendship in your twenties is messy, complicated, and always changing. In this episode, I’m breaking down what it actually means to be a good friend and how to avoid falling into the trap of being a “shitty” one. I share my own struggles with wondering if I’m a bad friend, what reciprocity looks like, and why communication matters more than constant texting. From how you respond when someone initiates plans, to listening without judgment, to showing up in both the big and small moments, these are the habits that make friendships last. If you want strong, healthy, long-lasting friendships, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Being a good friend isn’t about constant communication, but about intentionality
• The way you respond to your ‘friends’ can either lead to a weak and fragile relationship or a strong and healthy one
• Friendships should be well-balanced - recognize when it feels one-sided and when to walk away
• Show up in your friendships in the same ways you expect other people to show up for you
• Consistency, honesty, and reliability are the three key indicators to being a good friend

Helpful Resources: 

Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 

Email me: [email protected]

3 Ways to walk in a room with confidence: jessdiamondcoaching.com/confidence

Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 

Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 

Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic 

Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US