Welcome to a special edition of "Working Your Way," where authenticity in the workplace is the heart of our conversation. I'm your host, Sandhya Sudhakar. In today’s episode, I dive into my own journey of authenticity, sharing the live talk I delivered for the Chicago chapter of CreativeMornings, a global community that inspires creatives to connect and flourish. This isn't your typical presentation—it’s an informal, intimate glimpse into how I've navigated the complexities of starting and running my own business in alignment with my core values and passions.

The theme of my talk was "Treasure," but not in the conventional sense of final outcomes or achievements. Instead, I explore how true treasure lies in the journey—the trials and triumphs of building a business that not only serves my clients but also stays true to who I am. You'll hear about my experiences of experimenting, failing, succeeding, learning, and unlearning, all of which have shaped the way I operate both personally and professionally.

This episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look back, to when this podcast was just a concept taking shape in my mind. Join me as I share how embracing every aspect of my entrepreneurial adventure has been my treasure, urging us all to find the value in our own paths. Enjoy this candid reflection on what it means to work your way through creativity, challenges, and the pursuit of authenticity.

Resources:

• Find a CreativeMornings event in your city: creativemornings.com

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

Today's episode is the continuation of our journey into the Enneagram and its application in our careers and on our teams. If you're joining us now, I recommend starting with episode 20 for a foundational understanding of the Enneagram, an overview of the nine personality types, and guidance on how to accurately identify your type.

Building on that foundation, this episode is dedicated to exploring the practical side of the Enneagram—how to apply the insights from your Enneagram type to your personal and professional development.  In this episode, we dive deeper into the Enneagram's applications, guiding you through how to use this powerful tool to foster authenticity and effectiveness at work. We cover topics like building self-awareness, better understanding others, communicating more effectively, and creating better team dynamics. Join me as we delve into the rich possibilities this tool opens up - for growth and understanding both individually and with others. 

Want to skip around? Here’s what we talk about:

• [02:03] Using the Enneagram to develop all aspects of our emotional intelligence
• [16:10] The Enneagram Centers of Intelligence, how they connect to our type, and how they can be used to create balance in our lives and our actions
• [20:37] The three most important things you can learn about yourself in your career using your Enneagram type
• [22:44] Case studies of how to use the Enneagram on teams to build better business results

Resources:

• Read: “The Essential Enneagram” by David Daniels and Virginia Price
• Read: “The Enneagram for Black Liberation” by Chichi Agorom

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

Today’s episode is the first part of a two-episode series aimed at sharing the Enneagram as a tool for growth, and discussing how it can have a profound impact on our careers and teams. This first episode is your gateway to understanding what the Enneagram really is, what you need to know about discovering your type, and where to start in exploring the nine unique sets of core motivations and personality patterns it lays out.

Authenticity is as much a journey of unlearning as it is of learning, stripping back the layers of expectation and societal conditioning to reveal our true selves. In a world that often demands we conform, understanding our Enneagram type offers a way back to who we genuinely are, empowering us to align our true inner nature with our outward actions in our careers.

Next time, in episode 21, we'll delve into the "now what?"—how to utilize your Enneagram type to its fullest, both individually in your job and within your team. 

From shedding light on what personality tests can tell us to discussing their role in fostering authenticity and inclusion, we're covering it all. Join me as we navigate this path together, using the Enneagram as our compass, and rediscover the power of showing up as our authentic selves in every aspect of our lives.

Want to skip around? Here’s what we talk about:

• [01:52] Introduction to the Enneagram and why it’s helpful in uncovering our authenticity
• [05:52] How to identify your Enneagram type
• [17:30] The three core human needs that make up the Enneagram system
• [19:44] Type 1 (Improvement-oriented)
• [21:48] Type 2 (Relationship-oriented)
• [23:28] Type 3 (Achievement-oriented)
• [25:56] Type 4 (Expression-oriented)
• [27:53] Type 5 (Analysis-oriented)
• [30:18] Type 6 (Security-oriented)
• [32:50] Type 7 (Possibility-oriented)
• [35:15] Type 8 (Action-oriented)
• [37:48] Type 9 (Harmony-oriented)
• [39:42] Using the Enneagram responsibly and inclusively
• [43:08] Resources to explore further

Resources:

• Start Here - Reflection: 
• Self At Work PDF Reflection & Typing Guide
• Explore Further - The Types: 
• CP Enneagram Type PDF Guides
• The Narrative Enneagram PDF Guide
• Getting Stuck? Sorting Out Your Type: 
• The Narrative Enneagram Type Comparisons
• Enneagram Institute Type Misidentifications
• Book An Enneagram Typing Session

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn  
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

Pursuing your dream job is rarely a linear path—just look at today’s guest Annie Costabile, a journalist with the Chicago Sun-Times covering the Chicago Sky WNBA team. Annie's journey into journalism was driven by an early realization of her dream career, yet it was not without its challenges. From navigating career setbacks to facing personal trials that tested her love for her work, Annie's path has been anything but straightforward. Yet, these experiences have shaped her into the successful journalist, bold advocate for women's sports media, and industry innovator she is today. 

In this episode, Annie opens up about a particularly tough year, discussing how it forced her to reevaluate her relationship with her work and ultimately, how it transformed her. Join us as Annie shares her inspiring story, offering insights into the perseverance and dedication required to change the game in media coverage of women's sports.

Resources:

• Follow Annie on Instagram: @anniecostabile
• Connect with Annie on LinkedIn
• Listen to Annie’s podcast: Equal Play
• Read "Emotional Agility"
• Forbes: Mapping Your Career Journey With Intention
• HBR: How to Build a Career You Won’t Hate

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

I'm excited to introduce Michael Ulloa, an online personal trainer and nutrition coach who's redefining the fitness landscape with humor, compassion, and authenticity. Unlike the traditional fitness narrative of striving for perfection, Michael's approach on Instagram and TikTok is a breath of fresh air, combining expert advice with entertaining content that truly connects with his audience.

From starting out as a trainer out of necessity to becoming a beloved voice in the fitness community, Michael's journey is a testament to the power of embracing one's genuine self. He champions a holistic and practical approach to health, proving that fitness can be inclusive, fun, and grounded in real life. Join us as we dive into Michael's story, where he shares how a blend of laughter and sincerity not only built his following but also created a space where everyone is welcome.

Resources:

• Learn more at michaelulloa.com
• Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaelulloapt
• Follow Michael on TikTok: @michaelulloapt
• Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
• Learn more about job crafting: Managing Yourself: Turn the Job You Have into the Job You Want

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

What does it take to break barriers and empower the next generation of female innovators? In this episode, we dive into the heart of innovation with Dr. Patrice Johnson, President and CEO of Project Scientist, a nonprofit transforming the future for underserved girls in STEAM fields. Dr. Johnson's journey is a testament to the power of passion and purpose in forging a more equitable world. With a leadership style that blends empathy with efficacy, she shares her secrets to driving change while maintaining balance and self-care.

Join us as Patrice reveals how she's shaping the next generation of leaders and disruptors, proving that even the toughest challenges are no match for a leader fueled by a passion for purposeful change. Her story is not just inspiring—it's a blueprint for sustainable leadership in the relentless pursuit of a more equitable world.

Resources:

• Learn more at projectscientist.org
• Connect with Patrice on LinkedIn
• Read "Emotional Agility"
• Read "Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most"
• Enneagram Resources: Any of these would be a good starting point for self-exploration!
• Self At Work Guide: Discovering Your Enneagram Type
• Book Recommendations: The Essential Enneagram or Discovering Your Personality Type 

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

In today’s episode, part of our Career Questions series, we delve into the topic of leaving the corporate world to become self-employed or start an independent business. With many seeking autonomy and purpose beyond traditional jobs, and the instability spurred by recent layoffs, the allure of independence is on the rise. Currently, over 7 million people in the US are independent workers, with a majority embracing this path full-time, indicating a significant shift in career norms influenced by technology and changing work-life dynamics.

Joining us are two guests who have navigated this shift. First, we'll hear from Rajat Kapur, founder and CEO of a fractional CMO agency, on his journey from corporate to consulting, the realities of self-employment, and how he secured his first client. Next, we're joined by Sam Lee, founder of the IndeCollective, a program hailed as the modern MBA for independent workers. We'll discuss the vast landscape of independent work and the essential skills for running a successful solo business.

Together, we’ll examine freelancing, self-employment, and other forms of independent work, discussing what to consider and how to transition effectively.

Thinking of going independent? There’s a lot to unpack, but we’re here to help. We talk about: 

• [09:45] Making the decision to go independent and exploring your options
• [18:39] Landing your first independent client
• [26:03] What fractional work is
• [34:34] Deciding whether fractional work is right for you
• [41:50] The upsides of going independent
• [50:21] Advice for anyone looking to leave corporate work
• [57:07] Dealing with limiting beliefs around doing independent work
• [01:05:32] Breaking down the different ways to be a solopreneur or independent
• [01:17:12] How community plays a role in building a successful business faster
• [01:20:58] Adapting to the changing world of work

Resources:

• Connect with Raj Kapur on LinkedIn & learn more about &Marketing at and-marketing.com
• Connect with Sam Lee on LinkedIn & learn more about IndeCollective at indecollective.co
• Learn more about building an independent career: 
• Upwork Study Finds 64 Million Americans Freelanced in 2023, Adding $1.27 Trillion to U.S. Economy
• The Future Is Fractional: How Remote Work Opened Doors For Decentralized Talent
• Going freelance full time in 2024? Here's how to make it work

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

When Dan Ryan looked around the creative industry, he saw a lot of people that looked like him… and he knew things needed to change. The industry needed more diverse voices and lived experiences. So he took a leap of faith and started a nonprofit, InspireMSP. InspireMSP exposes youth to a full range of creative careers, especially youth who otherwise wouldn’t have access to opportunities to see the industry up close and personal. 

Today, Dan takes a generational view on the impact he can have in the world. And in this episode, he observes that his relationship with work changed over his lifetime. When he was a young, 20-something corporate professional, he was just fine having work be the driver in many areas of his life - learning, purpose, social relationships, etc. - needing less balance outside of work. But, over time, he changed. Now, even as a busy executive director, he prioritizes being present with his kids at home, recognizing the importance of how he shows up in AND outside of work. At the end of the day, whether as a dad or as a leader of a youth nonprofit, he measures his growth in terms of what he has done to impact the next generation of change-makers. Join us in this conversation for some next-level inspiration!

Resources:

• Learn more at InspireMSP.org
• Follow InspireMSP on Instagram: @Inspire_MSP
• Connect with Dan Ryan on LinkedIn 
• Learn more: 
• The Magic Relationship Ratio, According to Science | Gottman Institute
• What Is Positive Self-Talk? | Positive Psychology

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

Priya Shah is the visionary behind 'The Simple Good,' a nonprofit that's painting the world with strokes of hope, resilience, and the universal language of art. Priya's journey from the structured lanes of corporate accounting to the vibrant world of social entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring.

We're diving deep into Priya's narrative — from feeling out of place in the corporate world to harnessing her experiences and inspirations to create a platform that empowers youth through art. She shares the serendipitous moment that led her to take a leap of faith, transforming her life's blueprint from spreadsheets to art supplies.

This episode is an intimate exploration of creativity, leadership, and the transformative power of art in building connections and fostering emotional intelligence. Priya's story is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest things hold the deepest meanings, and in recognizing them, we find our true purpose.

Resources:

• Learn more about The Simple Good: thesimplegood.org
• Follow Priya on Instagram: @priyashah16
• Connect with Priya on LinkedIn
• Article: What is Job Crafting and Why Does it Matter
• Podcast: The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos: Working Your Way to Happiness

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

This episode is unique because my guest, Matt Kuttan, is one-of-a-kind. You’d never accuse Matt of being inauthentic—he’s dynamic, daring, and always putting himself out there. His time in art school and the advertising industry showed him what it was like to be in environments where that level of energy and creativity is appreciated, and he leaned in fully.

In this conversation, we talk about how being an immigrant set him up to be a cultural sponge, a skill that served him well in his career. We also discuss how he’s had to evolve as a leader and learn to adapt to an ever-changing culture. And get ready to laugh, because Matt brings his humor and energy everywhere he goes!

Resources:

• Follow Matt’s work at mattkuttan.com
• Follow Matt on Instagram: @mattkuttan
• Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
• Recognizing and Responding to Microaggressions at Work

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media