Working Your Way

Alma Quiroga is on the hunt for her next big career opportunity, and she’s here to share the wealth of career lessons she's gathered along her journey. In our conversation, we explore how Alma’s career journey is informed by her personal insights and her passion for using storytelling as a tool to make sense of her career path. We'll trace back through her experiences, discussing what she's learned about what works best for her in a work environment and how she's leveraging this knowledge in her search for the next right fit.

If you're currently exploring new career opportunities or simply interested in how to articulate your career story authentically, this episode will offer valuable insights. Join us for a journey through the highs and lows of defining and finding success on your own terms in the workplace. You're sure to leave with a smile—and maybe a new way to tell your own career story.

Resources:

• Learn more at almaquiroga.com
• Connect with Alma on LinkedIn

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

Welcome to a fresh episode of "Working Your Way," where today we tackle the complex and often misunderstood topic of personal branding, as part of our Career Questions series. Joining me, your host, Sandhya Sudhakar, is Cat Coffrin, brand strategist and founder of Captivating Consulting. Together, we dive deep into the essence of personal branding—not just as a tool for career success, but as a crucial component for personal well-being at work.

Today's discussion isn't about crafting a facade or a marketable persona. Instead, we explore personal branding as a journey to a clearer and stronger sense of self. We start by addressing the current challenges in the workplace that complicate our ability to truly know ourselves, discussing the external pressures that so many of us internalize along the way.

Cat and I will share our approaches to guiding clients through the internal journey of reconnecting with your sense of self, uncovering insights that aren't always obvious, and determining how to best communicate your unique value. This conversation promises to be rich with strategies and stories that illuminate the path to understanding and articulating who you are in both life and work.

So, whether you're looking to refine your professional image or seeking a deeper connection with your own identity, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to begin your personal branding journey. Remember to keep a notebook handy—you won't want to miss the reflection prompts and actionable tips we're sharing today. Let's dive in and discover how to transform our self-awareness into a powerful expression of our professional selves.

In this episode, we talk about:

• [03:53] The cultural identity crisis people are facing in their careers and lives
• [25:15] Why personal branding is so essential
• [29:49] Cat’s career journey and how she applied personal branding to herself
• [43:36] Taking an internal approach to building a personal brand: What data to use
• [51:20] Why people resist bringing up their past and how much to share
• [01:02:55] How to utilize your personal brand
• [01:17:29] Tools and resources

Resources:

• Learn more about Cat’s work at captivatingco.com
• Connect with Cat on LinkedIn
• Read Cat’s Blog
• Listen to the Working Your Way Enneagram series:
• 20. How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career Questions
• 21. How can I develop my emotional intelligence with the Enneagram? | Career Questions
• Reflected Best Self Exercise
• CliftonStrengths Online Talent Assessment

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

In this episode, I'm thrilled to talk with Jemilly Castro, Vice President of Strategy at Remezcla. Jemilly opens up about the complexities of representing her cultural identity within the predominantly white corporate spaces of the advertising world. Her career journey beautifully illustrates the struggle and empowerment that come from embracing who you are in professional settings.

Jemilly discusses the early challenges of her career, where she often had to mute or exaggerate aspects of herself to fit into the expected mold of a Latina professional. These experiences spurred profound personal growth, leading her to embrace her true self without conforming to external expectations. We also delve into how Jemilly incorporates gratitude into her daily life, balancing her successful career with personal hobbies that range from scuba diving to pottery, enriching her life beyond her professional identity. Join me as we explore how Jemilly has navigated the highs and lows of authenticity in her career and how she is embracing a new, more grounded chapter of her life. 

Resources:

• Learn more at jemilly.com
• Follow Guest on Instagram: @jemilly
• Connect with Jemilly on LinkedIn
• Podcast: Brené with Emily and Amelia Nagoski on Burnout and How to Complete the Stress Cycle
• Calm: 8 gratitude exercises to cultivate a more grateful mindset
• Positive Psychology: The Neuroscience of Gratitude and Effects on the Brain

Connect with me:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• selfatwork.com

Produced by NOVA Media

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