The Career Discovery Podcast

#41 - On today’s special episode, we have the privilege of meeting Matt Abrahams, a passionate communications expert and Stanford Lecturer. Matt’s diverse career spans teaching, coaching, lecturing, podcast hosting and writing. Prepare to be inspired by the invaluable insights and guidance he’ll share to enhance your communication skills and career! 

Matt kindly shares:

Career journey (03:13)

• How he transitioned from aspiring film director to becoming a communications expert 
• The highs he experienced on his career journey
• The challenges he faced along the way
• The importance of role models and mentors in his professional development

Advice (32:08)

• Valuable advice and resources for those looking to enhance their communication skills: 
  • Podcast: Think Fast, Talk Smart Podcast 
  • Website: Matt’s Website 
  • LinkedIn: Matt’s LinkedIn Profile 
• Advice he would give to his younger self and to you, our audience!

We also discuss:

• Elevating your growth through personal and professional development
• Crafting meaningful connections through networking and relationships
• Overcoming obstacles and embracing uncertainty
• Navigating workplace dynamics
• The pursuit of fulfilment
• And of course, mastering effective communication skills

Resources: 

• For those interested in exploring the power of regret, we recommend Daniel Pink’s book ‘The Power of Regret.’ 

Ready to supercharge your communication skills and fast-track your career growth? Eager to tap into Matt’s invaluable insights and expertise? Join us for this empowering episode ~ your journey towards becoming a confident and effective communicator starts here!

→ Show notes, links & more 

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

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Welcome back to our special summer series, where we’re embarking on a journey back in time to explore some of the key moments and timeless insights from our previous episodes. 

This week, we’re revisiting episode 4 and we’re delving into the invaluable insights from Jay, a Senior Product Solutions Manager in the UK’s dynamic asset management industry. 

Join us as we revisit these important lessons:

• Embracing flexibility in career planning
• Finding opportunity in adversity
• Valuing starting at the bottom
• Harnessing the power of transferable knowledge
• Developing skills through extra-curricular projects
• Extracting insights from every experience
• Embracing imposter syndrome moments
• Practising compassion and grace
• Harnessing the power of mentors
• Naturally networking for genuine connections
• Recognising the significance of soft skills
• Being your own advocate
• Releasing perfection pressure
• Always have a plan B
• Daring to dream big
• Inclusivity in investment management

So, whether you’re an aspiring asset management professional or an ambitious individual seeking inspiration for your career journey, you’re in the right place. Jay’s wisdom and timeless insights are here to empower you on your path to professional growth. Enjoy! 

→ Show notes, links & more

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

Welcome back to our special summer series, where we’re embarking on a journey back in time to explore some of the key moments and timeless insights from our previous episodes. 

This week, we’re revisiting the enlightening conversation we had with the fantastic Dipali, the dentist and business owner featured in episode 3. Her story continues to resonate with us and we’re excited to share the highlights with you. 

Join us as we journey through Dipali’s captivating experiences, from infusing her passion for interior design into her dental practices to navigating the challenges of managing people. Throughout this episode, we’ll dive deep into her wisdom on maintaining work-life harmony, empowering others and embracing new beginnings. 

But we’re not just here to reminisce! We’re here to learn and grow. Dipali’s journey is a powerful testament to the incredible heights one can reach when one dares to follow their dreams.

In this episode, we’ll revisit key topics that include: 

• Finding fulfilment at work through your passions.
• Balancing work and home life. 
• Guiding graduates into the real world. 
• Chasing dreams amid family expectations. 
• Transitioning to entrepreneurship: facing the unknown. 
• Building a business from the ground up. 
• Leading with empathy and empowerment. 
• Navigating risks in business growth. 
• Essential qualities for dentists. 
• Overcoming self-limitations for growth. 
• Self-confidence and compassion. 
• Embracing new beginnings.

So, whether you’re an aspiring dentist seeking guidance, an aspiring entrepreneur or simply someone looking for inspiration, you’re in for a treat. Dipali’s wisdom is about to take centre stage once more. Enjoy!

→ Show notes, links & more

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

Welcome back to our special summer series, where we’re embarking on a journey back in time to explore some of the key moments and timeless insights from our previous episodes.   

This week, we’re turning back the clock to our enlightening conversation with Dan, the skilled tissue viability specialist nurse featured in episode 2. Dan brings a wealth of experience and wisdom from his career. 

In this episode, we’ll revisit 11 significant topics, each brimming with insights: 

• Pride and Purpose: Take pride in your daily achievements and understand your ‘why.’
• Handling Transition: Moving from top to middle ranks in a larger group is common.
• Generalist Foundations: Discover the benefits of starting broadly before specialising too early.
• Team Dynamics: Recognise the positive impact of a great team on your career.
• Exposure and Experience: See the value in exploring different career aspects and gaining experience.
• Role Models and Leadership: Understand how strong role models and effective leaders shape your career.
• Opportunity and Learning: Embrace opportunities, prioritise continuous learning and be visible.
• Informed Career Decisions: Seek advice and insights from professionals in your chosen field for better decisions.
• Openness to Change: Embrace new opportunities and adaptability throughout your career.
• Limitless Possibilities: Believe that the right mindset can make anything possible in your career.
• Passion and Fulfilment: Find motivation and inspiration in loving what you do in your career.

Join us again next week for another engaging summer series episode, where we’ll continue to explore the wisdom and lessons from our remarkable guests. Until then, stay curious and keep learning!  

PS – Which of these 11 topics resonates with you the most and why? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

→ Show notes, links & more

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

Welcome to our special summer series, where we're embarking on a journey back in time to explore some of the key moments and timeless insights from our previous episodes.  

This week, we're turning back the clock to our very first episode and revisiting our enlightening conversation with Aline, a remarkable data scientist in the pharmaceutical industry based in Switzerland.  

In this episode, we'll revisit an array of themes, including: 

• Navigating networking and enhancing connections through extracurricular activities
• Embracing cultural awareness in networking and uncovering some global nuances
• Unlocking your potential by harnessing the power of transferable skills
• Turning setbacks into opportunities and embracing failure as a catalyst for growth
• Harmonizing diversity for success and tapping into the strengths of team variability
• Exploring curiosity, emotional intelligence and values
• Strategies for in-depth research and self-discovery in the realm of career paths 
• Lessons from the journey: Insights Aline and I wish we knew earlier in our careers
• Breaking free from perfection and embracing your unique path to fulfilment 

This episode takes a departure from our usual format to offer you a rich compilation of insights. It's a chance to rekindle the wisdom shared by Aline. As always, expect a sprinkle of final words of wisdom and encouragement that encapsulate the spirit of this series! 

Join us as we revisit the past to enrich your present and future endeavours.

→ Show notes, links & more

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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#36 - On the show today, we have the pleasure of meeting Sorca! 

Sorca is an experienced Outsourced Client Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) within the Investment Management industry based in the UK. Prepare to be inspired by Sorca’s dynamic career in the world of investment management!

Sorca kindly shares with us:

Area of expertise (03:55)

• Common misconceptions of the OCIO role
• An overview of the pensions industry
• Evolution of pensions advisory (done with you) to pension outsourcing (done for you)
• Purpose of the OCIO role
• Structure of a typical outsourced client investment team
• A day in the life of an OCIO
• Most enjoyable aspects of the role
• Challenging facets of the role
• Proudest moments in the role

Career journey (31:55)

• Sorca’s journey to becoming an OCIO
• High points of the career journey
• Challenges along the career journey
• The significance of role models and mentors

Advice (01:07:32)

• Helpful education, training and skills for aspiring investment management professionals: 
  • Institute and Faculty of Actuaries 
  • CFA Institute 
  • Python 
• The future of the investment management profession 
• Advice and resources for people who are keen to find out more about a career in investment management: 
  • The Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA)
  • The Pensions Regulator 
  • CFA UK 
  • The Investment Association (The IA) 
• Advice for Sorca's younger self and you!

We also talk about:

• Aligning purpose and environment in your work
• Embracing change for professional growth
• The power of curiosity and inquiry
• Cultivating mentor relationships for success
• Overcoming self-doubt and building confidence
• Recognizing the right time to pivot

Curious about the role of an Outsourced Client Chief Investment Officer? Wondering about the path to becoming one or seeking inspiration? Join us for a captivating conversation as we dive into the dynamic world of investment management, uncovering invaluable career insights and guidance.

→ See show notes for links & more

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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#35 - On the show today we meet Sara! Sara is a UK-based investment analyst and the visionary founder of an international wine trading company. Her dynamic career in investment management and entrepreneurship is sure to inspire you! 

Sara kindly shares with us:  

Areas of expertise (05:22)

• Common misconceptions of the investment analyst and entrepreneur roles 
• Overview of investment management and commerce industries 
• Purpose of the investment analyst and entrepreneur roles 
• A day in the life of an investment analyst and entrepreneur 
• Investment analyst tools: 
  • Excel 
  • FactSet 
  • Bloomberg 
• Enjoyable aspects of the roles 
• Challenges faced in the roles 
• Proudest moments in the roles 

Career journey (30:24)

• Sara’s career journey from aspiring volleyball player to investment analyst and entrepreneur 
• Highs and challenges of the career journey 
• Importance of role models and mentors 

Advice (01:20:01)

• Education, training and skills for aspiring investment professionals and entrepreneurs 
• The future of investment management and entrepreneurship 
• Advice and resources for those interested in a career in investment management and entrepreneurship: 
  • Substack 
  • FT 
  • Bloomberg  
• Advice for Sara’s younger self and you! 

We also talk about:  

• The significance of reviewing progress for continuous improvement 
• Navigating life transitions: From Italy to London, employee to entrepreneur 
• The highs and lows of entrepreneurship – a journey for the determined
• The power of sustainability and AI in business
• Embracing our multi-faceted natures by exploring multiple careers and interests
• Why companies should welcome the rising trend of side hustles

Resources: 

• Traction – Gabriel Weinberg & Justin Mares  
• Zero to One – Peter Thiel & Blake Masters 
• Shoedog – Phil Knight 

Curious about the role of an investment analyst or the journey of an entrepreneur? Wondering how to become one or seeking inspiration? Look no further!

→ Show notes

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

#34 - Join us as we meet Valentina, a spiritual life coach based in Italy, who found her calling in the personal development industry. With a passion for helping people internationally, Valentina's journey is both inspiring and empowering. 

Valentina kindly shares: 

Area of expertise (03:50)

• Common misconceptions of the spiritual life coach role 
• Purpose of the spiritual life coach role 
• A day in the life of a spiritual life coach 
• Enjoyable aspects of the role 
• Challenges faced in the role 
• Proudest moments in the role 

Career journey (25:29)

• Her inspiring career journey from uncertainty to embracing her role as a spiritual life coach 
• Highs and challenges of the career journey 
• Importance of role models and mentors 

Advice (01:11:55)

• Education, training and skills for aspiring personal development practitioners 
• Advice and resources for those interested in a career in personal development 
• Advice for her younger self and you!

We also talk about: 

• Overcoming challenges and embracing failure 
• Navigating entrepreneurship and career transitions 
• The power of personal growth and awakening 
• The importance of patience and perseverance 
• Finding and embracing your calling 

Resources:

• Soul Vale (Valentina's Website) 
• "Discover Your Dharma" by Sahara Ros 
• "A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle 
• "The Celestine Prophecy" by James Redfield 
• "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol Dweck 
• "Love + Work" by Marcus Buckingham 

Curious about the role of a spiritual life coach? Wondering how to become one or seeking inspiration? Listen or watch our conversation and immerse yourself in the world of spiritual life coaching.

→ Episode page

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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#33 - On the show today we meet David! David works as a chief investment officer (CIO) in the investment management industry in the UK. If you’re curious about a career in investment management, check it out!

David kindly shares with us:

Area of expertise (04:36)

• Common misconceptions of the CIO role 
• An overview of the investment management industry
• The myriad of roles within the industry and why whatever your skill set, there’s a role for you
• The purpose of the CIO role 
• The structure of a typical investment team 
• What is meant by multi-asset investing
• What a CIO does on an average day 
• Most enjoyable parts of the role  
• Challenging parts of the role  
• Proudest moments in the role  

Career journey (35:11)

• How David became a CIO having set his sights on ‘the city’ in finance or law 
• Highs of the career journey   
• Challenges of the career journey  
• Importance of role models and mentors 

Advice (01:13:31)

• Helpful education, training and skills for aspiring investment management professionals 
• The future of the investment management profession 
• Advice and resources for people who are keen to find out more about a career in investment management: 
  • Money Maze Podcast 
  • Rogue Trader – Nick Leeson 
  • Reminiscences of a Stock Operator – Edwin Lefevre 
  • Freakonomics – Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner 
  • Freakonomics Podcast 
• Advice for his younger self and you!

We also talk about:  

• Finding your ideal workplace – where your values align with the team and culture
• The importance of regular self-reflection – to check if you are on the right track
• Harnessing the power of continuous learning even in the uncomfortable and challenging times
• Mental fitness in the workplace – the value of embracing openness at work
• The power of EQ, especially in an AI-dominated world

Other references: 

• The Psychology of Money – Morgan Housel 

So if you’re curious and wondering what a CIO does or how to become a CIO or if you just want to be inspired ~ listen or watch and enjoy! 

→ Show notes 

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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#32 - On the show today we meet Arron! Arron works as a Practice Director at a barristers’ chambers in the judiciary industry in the UK. If you’re curious about a career as a barristers’ clerk, check it out!   

Arron kindly shares with us:

Area of expertise (04:34)

• Common misconceptions of the barristers’ clerk/practice director role 
• An overview of how chambers fit into the legal landscape, types of chambers sets/sectors and typical departments within chambers  
• The purpose of the barristers’ clerk/practice director role   
• What a barristers’ clerk/practice director does on an average day 
• Most enjoyable parts of the role  
• Challenging parts of the role  
• Proudest moments in the role  

Career journey (50:00)

• How Arron became a practice director from not knowing what he wanted to do 
• Highs of the career journey   
• Challenges of the career journey  
• Importance of role models and mentors   

Advice (01:19:41)

• Helpful education, training and skills for aspiring barristers’ clerks and professionals 
• The future of the barristers’ clerk profession 
• Advice and resources for people who are keen to find out more about a career in the barristers’ clerk profession: 
  • Institute of Barristers’ Clerks 
  • Supreme Court UK – Live Stream 
  • The Court of Appeal – Live Stream 
  • Bridging The Bar 
• Advice for his younger self and you!   

We also talk about:  

• Managing difficult conversations
• Business development and why it is important to show your personality and be yourself   
• The benefit of part-time jobs, first jobs and volunteering for developing soft skills 
• Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within chambers and how the profession is trying to bridge the gap
• The power of great colleagues and teamwork – we can’t all be strikers! 

So if you’re curious and wondering what a barristers’ clerk does or how to become a barristers’ clerk or if you just want to be inspired ~ listen or watch and enjoy!

→ Show notes 

***
Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show!

If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review.

And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you!

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Coaching, newsletter, website & more!

If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.