Behind every confident leader is a collection of awkward, funny, and deeply formative moments, and many of them start in our very first jobs.

This episode brings together some of the most memorable, laugh-out-loud stories from past guests as they reflect on their earliest working experiences. From misunderstood presentations and customer blow-ups to first paychecks, first mistakes, and first lessons in responsibility, these moments are as funny as they are meaningful.

What begins as humor quickly turns into insight:

1. How early jobs quietly shape our work ethic and confidence
2. Why mistakes often become the doorway to growth
3. The leadership lessons we learn long before we ever manage a team
4. How being defended—or defending others—can leave a lifelong impact

Featuring moments from Mike Pacchione, Jo Watson, and others, this episode is a reminder that leadership doesn’t start with a title, it starts with experience.

If you’ve ever felt awkward, out of place, or unsure early in your career, this conversation will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe see your own journey a little differently.

Your host, Candice Mitchell, can be found online at:

Website: https://talentdevelopmentnerds.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicemitchelltdnerd/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@candicemitchell.TDNerd

Talent Development Academy: https://talentdevelopmentnerds.com/tda

Original music composed by: Paul DeHaven

pauldehavenmusic.com