PIVOTING CAREERS IN MEDIA with Jazz Pitcairn and Katrina Craigwell

5 snips

May 15, 2025

Join Katrina Craigwell, head of product at Chase with a rich marketing background, and Jazz Pitcairn, writer/director passionate about global affairs, as they unravel the secrets to thriving in today's dynamic media landscape. They discuss the power of transferable skills and lifelong learning in navigating career transitions. The duo emphasizes adaptability and the crucial role of networking in opening doors to new opportunities. Prepare to be inspired by their insights on turning challenges into stepping stones for success!

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

ANECDOTE

Katrina's Career Evolution at GE

Katrina moved from storytelling to technical product management at GE and learned how to connect marketing with commercial impact.
She progressed by trading her core skills for new adjacent capabilities and expanding her expertise across roles.

ADVICE

Nurture Your Network Regularly

Take care of your professional network by doing what you say, showing up prepared and enthusiastic, delivering, and sharing wins.
Regularly update and thank your supporters to maintain meaningful career relationships.

ADVICE

Stay Open and Curious

Stay open and curious to create opportunities for lifelong learning.
Seek roles that allow you to address core problems and expand your skill set.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

Double duty! This week, Evan sits down with Katrina Craigwell, head of products at JP Morgan Chase, and acclaimed writer/director Jazz Pitcairn to discuss building resilient careers, making bold pivots, and the power of curiosity, networks, and hustle in a rapidly shifting industry.

Whether you’re looking to make a career transition, advance in your current field, or just stay ahead of the curve, Katrina and Jazz offer actionable advice to help you thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how to turn challenges into opportunities and keep your career evolving.

Thank you Jazz for joining the pod!

Jazz Pitcairn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazz-pitcairn/
Check out Jazz’s website here: www.jazzpitcairn.com

Check out Ivan, Jazz’s directorial debut, here: Ivan website: www.theivanfilm.com

Thank you Katrina for joining the pod!
Katrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinacraigwell/

Check out Katrina’s podcast “Am I On Mute” here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/am-i-on-mute/id1676637019

Key Takeaways:

Transferable skills are power: Recognizing and leveraging core strengths—like storytelling, communication, and strategic thinking—enabled both Katrina and Jazz to navigate across industries and roles with confidence.
Networks open doors: Strong professional relationships and consistent, genuine outreach led to career-defining opportunities and long-term support.
Adaptability is essential: From layoffs to visa challenges to switching industries, success comes from embracing uncertainty, learning quickly, and staying open to change.
Timing matters: Seizing opportunities quickly—like responding to job leads right away or being the first to follow up—proved crucial in standing out and moving forward.

Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8

Connect with us on Linkedin:
Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/
Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/

Newsletters:
Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/
Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/

(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Overview
(00:47) - Career Sustainability in Media
(01:53) - Guest Introduction: Katrina Craigwell
(02:17) - Katrina's Career Journey
(05:00) - Lessons from GE and Career Transitions
(07:39) - Networking and Career Growth
(21:59) - Guest Introduction: Jas P. Karen
(22:27) - Jas's Career Path and Achievements
(24:00) - Navigating the Film Industry
(32:24) - Pursuing Passion Projects and Future Plans
(36:27) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts