Freelance work: it's something that many of us have at least thought about doing at some point in our professional lives, including my latest guest, Barbara Bellesi Zito, also the author of a soon-to-be released novel! In this episode, I chat with Barbara about her successful transition from working full-time in higher education to now working as a freelance writer for several outlets. Check out her work, Instagram, Twitter, and website!

In this episode, I had the good fortune to chat with Jen Coken, a comedian, coach, speaker, and Imposter Syndrome expert. Jen sheds light on what it means to struggle with Imposter Syndrome, something many of us have encountered at various stages of life. Check out her website, take her Imposter Syndrome quiz, and reach her via email at [email protected].

My (hopefully) relatable story about how a rainy night in Paris helped open my mind to life's unexpected possibilities!

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2022/01/01/embracing-the-unknown-for-2022/

The new year is upon us with a fresh look at goals and intentions. Which do you want to pursue, and what do you want to let go of? 

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2021/12/30/goals-and-intentions-tips-for-a-great-2022/

Do what you hate? Sounds like crazy advice. But have a listen and see how this can actually be a good thing!

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2021/10/19/do-what-you-hate/

Whether you've already returned to the office after an extended work-from-home stint, about to return in the near future, or have never left, it's important to focus on self-care and to maintain a consistent routine. In this podcast, I offer a few tips to help reach that goal. 

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2021/09/30/back-in-the-office-6-tips-to-help-maintain-self-care/

It's World Mental Health Day. So it's only fitting that I talk about meditation and its wide range of benefits. For one thing, it has helped remind me that it's all about the response: the way I respond to situations impacts my well-being and happiness. 

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2021/10/10/its-all-about-the-response/

It was great to talk with my friend (and fellow introvert) Stephen Beattie, who shared details of his recent job search, the motivation behind it, as well as a few helpful tips for others who are also thinking about making a change. Have a listen!

One of the challenges for introverts is being in the limelight, especially at work. I know it is for me. But this is one of those times when stretching beyond our comfort zone and trying what does not come naturally might just pay dividends.

This episode is also available as a blog post: http://careeroptimum.com/2021/04/14/pay-attention-to-the-i-in-introvert/

I had the pleasure of chatting recently with John Sporing, who runs A Life Well Drunk, a global wine tour company. John wasn't always self-employed (in fact, he spent about 25 years working for the federal government), but as we hear in this episode, he always had the entrepreneurial spirit. He shares the process he went through to being his own boss, and offers some advice for others thinking about doing the same. For more about John's company, visit alifewelldrunk.com.