LEAVE YOUR MARK: Freshly Brewed Career Advice with Aliza Licht

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I interview Keyaira Boone, an accomplished writer, columnist, and co-author recognized for her work across multiple prominent media outlets. Keyaira shares her journey from aspiring full-time journalist to thriving freelance writer, offering invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of journalism. She discusses the stigmas and challenges associated with freelance work, practical tips on managing time and finances, and how to navigate the complex dynamics between freelancers and editors. Keyaira also emphasizes the importance of personal branding, staying connected with true friends for mental well-being, and understanding media literacy. This episode provides actionable advice for anyone considering a freelancing career and highlights the resilience and strategic thinking required to succeed in the media industry.

In this episode, I delve into the workplace trend of ‘task masking,’ where employees appear busy without being productive, particularly among Gen Z. With the return to office mandates, this phenomenon has become more noticeable. Is this solely a Gen Z issue or a symptom of outdated workplace expectations? But hold that thought- what about the rise of workplace surveillance technologies and their potential impact on employee trust? I explore how companies can create more meaningful, engaging work environments to counteract these trends.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I chat with Melody Wilding, an award-winning executive coach and author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge and Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work. Melody dives into her journey of coaching highly sensitive professionals and shares actionable advice on navigating relationships with higher-ups, managing workplace emotions, and strategically advancing your career. We discuss the nuances of 'managing up' for both introverts and extroverts and highlight the importance of proactive career management. Melody also introduces the concept of 'sensitive strivers,' explaining how to turn sensitivity into a workplace strength.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I break down the recent controversy surrounding Poppi, the prebiotic soda brand, following a bold marketing stunt gone wrong. The campaign, which involved sending 32 custom Poppi branded vending machines to top influencers, sparked backlash over elitism, wastefulness, and detachment from loyal customers. I delve into the two main areas of criticism: alienating a core customer base and concerns over sustainability and execution. Tune in to hear my strong take on influencer marketing, the founder apology, and why I believe Poppi will ultimately be just fine. Plus, get my insights on the importance of brands being bold and creative in their marketing efforts.00:26 The Poppi Soda Brand Controversy00:49 Backstory and Marketing Stunt Breakdown02:01 Backlash and Core Customer Alienation03:07 Environmental Concerns and Execution Issues03:51 Founder and Company Response05:05 Broader Implications of Influencer Marketing05:37 Host's Perspective on the Controversy09:10 Final Thoughts and Marketing Insights11:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

Who is really to blame? In this episode of 'Leave Your Mark,' I discuss the controversial marketing strategy of the film 'It Ends With Us,' directed by Justin Baldoni and starring Blake Lively. The promotional campaign faced criticism for being tone-deaf, especially considering the movie's sensitive themes of domestic violence. I reveal new evidence that shifts the focus of responsibility away from Sony. I also share actionable marketing tips to avoid such pitfalls in the future, emphasizing sensitivity and stakeholder inclusion. Tune in to learn valuable lessons on responsible and effective marketing.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I review an article from Quartz on the emerging concept of a 'hybrid hierarchy' in the workplace. I discuss how some companies offer flexible schedules to high-performing employees while others are required to adhere to strict in-office attendance. I debate the challenges and implications of this approach, touching on issues of fairness, transparency, and potential workplace tension.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I focus on navigating mental health challenges in high-performing workplaces. Drawing from my background in public relations, I share valuable insights on maintaining productivity while safeguarding mental well-being. I discuss real-world examples like Simone Biles prioritizing her mental health and tech leaders addressing burnout. I provide essential tips for high performers, such as prioritizing tasks with the 80/20 rule. I also offer actionable advice for employers and leaders on modeling healthy behaviors, promoting work-life balance, spotting burnout, and fostering a culture of psychological safety.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark podcast, I engage in a compelling conversation with Anjli Raval, the management editor at the Financial Times. We discuss Anjli's article 'Women shouldn't face a penalty for promoting themselves', her experiences interviewing female CEOs, and the challenges women face in self-promotion. Our discussion highlights the importance of personal branding, cultural differences in perceptions of success, and actionable advice for professionals to effectively amplify their voices. Anjli also shares her journalistic approach and how thoughtful engagement can lead to greater professional opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark00:26 Meet Anjli Raval: Management Editor at Financial Times01:36 The LinkedIn Post That Sparked a Conversation02:07 Challenges Faced by Female CEOs03:09 The Importance of Personal Branding12:52 Cultural Differences in Personal Branding21:33 Advice for CEOs and Professionals24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I'm thrilled to welcome back Carrie Kerpen, a transformative leader in the business world. Carrie, the founder and CEO of The Whisper Group—an exit readiness advisory practice for women-owned businesses—shares her incredible journey. Previously, she started, scaled, and sold Likable Media, a pioneering social media agency. We dive into her strategic approach to building and selling a profitable business, her development of The Whisper Group, and her mission to close the exit gap for female entrepreneurs. Carrie also discusses her upcoming book, 'The Whisper Way,' and offers a unique perspective on optimizing businesses for exit. You'll gain actionable insights on career growth, business optimization, and personal branding from this insightful discussion.

This year's Golden Globes reminded us of the importance of intentional and clear communication in public speaking. Today's episode on Leave Your Mark delves into powerful takeaways from several of the speeches at the Golden Globes, emphasizing the value of authenticity and the consequences of ignoring impactful narratives – lessons that extend beyond the awards stage to everyday communication and storytelling.In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I'm thrilled to welcome back my friend and personal media trainer, Jillian Straus, CEO and founder of Straus Strategic Communications, to break down some standout speeches from the Golden Globes. In contrast, I break them down from a personal branding and PR standpoint. We dive into Demi's powerful and relatable speech that captured vulnerability and empathy and contrast it with Adrian Brody's speech, which notably avoided key elements of his film's Holocaust narrative. Throughout our discussion, we emphasize the importance of intention, authenticity, and conveying a clear message in public speaking.