In this episode, Angela chats with Chris Fontanella, founder of Encore Professionals Group (a professional services / recruiting firm) and author of Against the Grain: Counterintuitive Ideas on Business and Life. Discover Chris's intriguing journey from studying theology to thriving in the recruiting industry. Chris shares his unique perspective on career paths, the role of intuition, and how unplanned events can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Are career paths based on a divine intervention or a product of free will? How can taking a step back sometimes be the best way forward? From coffee as a ritual to swimming your own way “against the grain,” this conversation explores how counterintuitive decisions can lead to fulfilling careers and personal growth. The significance of morning coffee rituals | The power of people in shaping our careers | Navigating non-linear career paths | Making bold choices when nothing seems to be happening | Embracing life’s twists and turns with an open mind.

https://chrisfontanella.com/

Julie Spiech is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Overnight Supervisor at Common Thread, an organization that provides mentoring and advocacy to survivors of human trafficking in Texas. In this podcast we discuss what a day in the life (or rather a night in the life) is like when working to get on-the-spot help to support these survivors. Utilizing strengths in listening, patience, good judgement | Giving yourself grace at work | The role of a support network in your career | The role of upbringing and chance connections in leading you down a path where your career falls into place.

Career Coach Angela Bennett hosts Lizbeth Zuniga, CEO and Founder of Acquire Beauty, a consulting firm that helps beauty and personal care brands effectively develop their supply chain operations to be agile and increase profitability.  Careers in Supply Chain Operations | Driving your career | When life hits rock bottom | The role of mentors and supporters along the way | Building your network with genuine long-term connections | Setting boundaries at work for mental health

Career Coach Angela Bennett hosts Debbie Johnson, President of Premier Executive Recruiting on making strategic career decisions in the new year.  Career decision making frameworks | How to compare job offers | Negotiating offers | The role of compensation, corporate culture, leadership, company growth stage, business resources for success and more.  This podcast and the job comparison tool provide comprehensive guidance on all the factors to think about when it comes to making a decision for a career move.

Download Premier Executive Recruiting’s Job Comparison Tool:  https://bit.ly/4f8oEc5

Career Coach Angela Bennett hosts Tony Teshara of Handle Recruiting that helps startups scale their businesses with talent.  Branding yourself to stand out | Storytelling your experiences | Crafting resumes. 

The first part of a two-part series on personal branding. Discover the importance of defining your professional story to stand out in a crowded job market. Gain insights into how branding and storytelling can set you apart in today’s competitive job market. Communicate your value in a way that helps hiring managers picture what you offer. Hear Tony's unique perspective as a recruiter and his expertise in helping both startups and individuals excel. Tony shares actionable advice on working with recruiters, crafting and tailoring resumes and how to position yourself as a problem-solver to potential employers. Whether you're a new graduate or a seasoned professional looking to elevate your career, this episode offers valuable tips and strategies for branding yourself in the today’s job market.

Career Coach Angela Bennett hosts Dan Villarroel, psychotherapist and clinical director at Guardian Recovery in NJ.  What it’s like to be a psychotherapist | The power of listening and critical thinking skills | Career transitioning.

Career Coach Angela Bennett and Debbie Johnson, President of Premier Executive Recruiting discuss preparing for a job search / job market outlook / how to prepare for job seeking / how to stand out.

Discover more on the Coffee & Careers Substack:  https://angelabennett.substack.com/