In this episode of Manny Talks, we dive deep into the world of performance reviews—an often nerve-wracking but essential part of professional life. We explore how to make the most of your review process, from setting clear, SMART goals to proactively seeking feedback and documenting your achievements.

We also discuss the importance of understanding the "silent reviews" that happen daily in the workplace, as well as how to leverage your skills and attitude to stand out as a collaborative team player. Whether you’re an early-career STEM professional or a seasoned expert, this episode will provide valuable insights into navigating performance reviews, using feedback for growth, and building a reputation that sets you apart.

Tune in to learn practical strategies for aligning your personal goals with your organization's objectives and making performance reviews work in your favor. If you're looking to take control of your career trajectory, this episode is a must-listen!

Listen now and learn:

Don't miss this opportunity to turn performance reviews into a tool for advancement and growth!

Subscribe, rate, and review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us continue bringing insightful content to help you thrive in your STEM career.

**Episode Title: Corporate America's DEI Dilemma After the Supreme Court's Ruling**

In this episode of *Manny Talks*, we dive into the shifting landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in corporate America, following the recent Supreme Court ruling that has sparked new debates. I explore the challenges companies face as they navigate the evolving legal and social frameworks, and what this means for their DEI initiatives. We discuss how organizations can stay committed to creating diverse and inclusive work environments while adapting to these changes, and I share insights from my recent article on the topic. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of DEI in the workplace.

In this episode, I share the personal story of how I got to where I am today, from growing up as the middle child in a Latino immigrant family to working my way through multiple jobs, going back to school in my mid-twenties, and eventually building a career in engineering. Along the way, I talk about the influence my parents had on me, the challenges I faced juggling family life and school, and the pivotal role mentors played in shaping my path.

I also reflect on the lessons I’ve learned about hard work, leadership, and balancing professional success with unresolved family dynamics. This episode is a candid look at the highs and lows of my journey, with insights for anyone still working through life’s challenges.

Tune in for a real conversation about pursuing success and the importance of persistence, support, and self-discovery.

In this episode of *Manny Talks*, we dive deep into the ongoing controversy surrounding automation and its impact on jobs. Using the recent strike by dockworkers from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) as a case study, we explore both sides of the debate—how automation increases efficiency but also threatens job security.

We’ll discuss:

- The current strike and the dockworkers’ demands for job protection.

- Pros and cons of automation, and why it’s inevitable in the modern economy.

- Historical examples of companies like Kodak and RadioShack that failed to adapt to new technologies.

- Advice for job seekers and students on which career paths might best align with a future where automation is prevalent.

Tune in to hear how automation might shape the future of work, and what you can do to prepare for it!

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**Hashtags:**

#Automation #FutureOfWork #Dockworkers #JobMarket #Adaptability #CareerAdvice #Technology #LaborRights #IndustryInnovation #MannyTalks

In this episode of *Manny Talks*, we unpack the ongoing challenges of plastic recycling, diving into recent *CNN* articles that shed light on the topic. We explore *Ella Nilsen’s* September 2024 piece on California’s lawsuit against ExxonMobil, which alleges misleading claims about plastic recyclability, as well as *Rachel Ramirez’s* May 2024 article that critically examines the promises and pitfalls of chemical recycling.

Are big corporations truly invested in solving the plastic crisis, or are we being misled? Is chemical recycling the solution we’ve been waiting for, or just another flawed approach? We also take a closer look at how our own recycling habits play into the issue and challenge listeners to reflect on the convenience of single-use plastics. Can we make the necessary changes to reduce our plastic footprint?

Join me, Manny, for a thought-provoking discussion about corporate responsibility, consumer action, and the future of plastic recycling.

Join me as I answer questions from Quora on resume writing, what recruiters are thinking, and early career advice.

I'm back after a bit of a hiatus. Broke out the equipment and back recording. I started with the basics.

Podcast: Manny Talks

Host: Manny De La Cruz

In this episode of our podcast, we discussed strategies for managing global teams. We began by emphasizing the importance of getting to know your team members individually and understanding their backgrounds, skills, and interests. We then talked about the need to recognize and respect cultural differences while avoiding overgeneralizing about a particular culture. We also highlighted the importance of networking, building strong teams, encouraging collaboration, providing feedback, and validating a working professional relationship with your team members. We talked about the role of technology in facilitating communication and collaboration, as well as the importance of time zone management. Finally, we discussed the need for a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the importance of adaptability and flexibility when managing a global team. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage your global team and ensure its success.

Track: Ikson - Early Hours [Official] Music provided by Ikson®  Listen: https://youtu.be/h77LOMqjBm8

Podcast: Manny Talks

Host: Manny De La Cruz

The push for sustainability has led many job seekers to seek out companies that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. However, it's important for job seekers to carefully research and evaluate a company's sustainability efforts before committing to a job. To do this, job seekers can start by reviewing a company's sustainability reports, which outline their sustainability goals, initiatives, and progress. They can also look for independent certifications or ratings that verify a company's sustainability claims, such as those provided by the FSC or Corporate Knights. Additionally, job seekers can gain valuable insights into a company's sustainability practices by examining their supply chain and sourcing practices. By taking these steps, job seekers can make informed decisions about which companies to support and work for, and help to promote greater sustainability in the business world.

Track: Ikson - Early Hours [Official] Music provided by Ikson®  Listen: https://youtu.be/h77LOMqjBm8