

Career Contessa
Career Contessa
Shortcut your path to being more successful at work. This show helps you figure out what you truly want, land a job, make more money, advance your career, and improve your work life with actionable insights from experts that boost work performance.
We're covering job searches, job interviews, resumes, LinkedIn, how to get paid and get a salary raise, career growth tips, leadership and management advice, workplace interpersonal skills, wellness strategies, work-life balance, confidence, career transitions, workplace toxicity, and more!
Listen wherever you get your podcasts, follow @careercontessa on Instagram for daily career tips, and subscribe to our newsletter at www.careercontessa.com/newsletter
We're covering job searches, job interviews, resumes, LinkedIn, how to get paid and get a salary raise, career growth tips, leadership and management advice, workplace interpersonal skills, wellness strategies, work-life balance, confidence, career transitions, workplace toxicity, and more!
Listen wherever you get your podcasts, follow @careercontessa on Instagram for daily career tips, and subscribe to our newsletter at www.careercontessa.com/newsletter
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 2, 2025 • 35min
What’s Really Holding You Back at Work? (It’s Not What You Think)
Ever feel stuck at work but can’t quite put your finger on why? In this episode, executive coach and Leadership Unblocked author Muriel Wilkins explains the invisible blockers that stand between you and your full potential. She shares why a “perception gap” can hold you back even more than a skills gap — and how you can start coaching yourself to break through those hidden barriers.You’ll learn:Why your biggest blocker might be a perception gap, not a skill gapHow to self-coach when self-doubt creeps inThe key questions that help you lead from the inside outShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWGuest Resources:Website and book: https://www.murielwilkins.com/Podcast: https://www.murielwilkins.com/podcast-coaching-real-leadersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murielwilkins/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmurielwilkins/#CC podcast on executive presence: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/executive-presence-what-it-is-and-how-to-get-it-at-work/id1434354911?i=1000577768564 Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/SponsorGo to Superpower.com to learn more and lock in the special $199 price while it lasts. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 26, 2025 • 31min
Say What You Mean: How to Become a More Assertive Communicator
Adeline Callanan, a career coach and talent acquisition manager, shares her expertise on assertive communication. She discusses the importance of speaking up without being labeled as 'difficult.' Adeline highlights simple language shifts that can boost confidence and shares insights on nonverbal cues that enhance or undermine your message. She also touches on the nuances between assertiveness and aggression, emphasizing the need for clarity and intention in communication. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their workplace interactions!

Aug 19, 2025 • 29min
3 in 30 : How to Stay Motivated In a Career “Waiting” Season
Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik close out their 3-part summer series on Career Clarity with an honest conversation about “waiting seasons” in your career—the in-between times when you’re not quite where you want to be yet. If you’ve ever felt stuck or restless while waiting for the next step to unfold, this episode will help you see that season with fresh perspective and practical tools.Tune in to learn:How to identify the “why” behind your waiting season so it feels intentional, not stuckWhy defining your own “success” metric keeps you consistent and motivatedA simple way to create rewards that reinforce progress without derailing your goalsShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Part 1 in Career Clarity Series: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/3-in-30-how-to-figure-out-your-next-career-move/id1434354911?i=1000713210738 Part 2 in Career Clarity Series: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-in-30-how-to-turn-career-clarity-into-action/id1434354911?i=1000718423565 Figure Out Your Next Career Move: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/figure-out-your-next-career-move/ Marnie’s Career Clarity IG Series: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFOjMnu0Lc/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsAll month Beam is offering up to 50% off Beam Kids for Back to school when you go to Shopbeam.com/CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA at checkout.If you’re ready to upgrade your rest go to Leesa.com for 30% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code CONTESSA, exclusive for my listeners.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 12, 2025 • 35min
Human-Design at Work: Your Guide to Finding More Career Clarity
Erin Claire Jones, a Human Design guide and author, shares insights on aligning your career with your unique design. She explains how understanding the three key elements of Human Design can improve decision-making at work. Jones highlights the importance of recognizing that 'success' varies by individual type, which can lead to greater fulfillment. By understanding your own design and that of your coworkers, you can reduce burnout and enhance collaboration, ultimately finding more clarity in your career path.

4 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 29min
How to Get Noticed at Work (Without Becoming Someone You’re Not)
Lorraine K. Lee, a LinkedIn Top Voice and author of 'Unforgettable Presence,' shares her insights on how to stand out at work authentically. She discusses the importance of visibility for career growth and effective self-promotion without losing one's true self. Lorraine offers practical strategies for enhancing executive presence online and mastering subtle self-advocacy. She emphasizes reshaping personal branding through everyday interactions, encouraging listeners to identify their core identity with three defining words.

Jul 29, 2025 • 32min
Trusted, Visible, Respected: How to Build Your Professional Reputation
Author Brad Englert shares how to build lasting influence through trust, visibility, and real relationships. Learn how to strengthen your internal and external networks and why influence is a must-have leadership skill—not just a nice-to-have. You’ll Learn:Why influence is a hard skill every modern leader needsHow to strengthen relationships inside and outside your organizationPractical habits that help you build trust and credibility for the long haulShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW The Successful Networker: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-successful-networkerGuest ResourcesSpheres of Influence: https://bradenglert.com/spheres-of-influence/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsGo to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA to get $50 Off your annual Superpower subscription. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpodStop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 22, 2025 • 37min
3 in 30: How to Turn Career Clarity Into Action
Marnie Lemonik, a career coach dedicated to helping individuals find clarity and direction, joins the discussion. She shares key strategies to turn career insights into actionable steps. Learn how to bypass the obsession with perfection and create a personal list of non-negotiables for job searches. Marnie also emphasizes the importance of setting weekly goals to stay motivated and consistent. This episode equips listeners with a roadmap to confidently advance in their careers.

Jul 15, 2025 • 39min
Owning Your Reputation Narrative: Crafting a Public Presence That Matches Your Private Impact
Join Kimberly Brown, a career and leadership expert and author, as she dives into how to manage your professional reputation. Discover the importance of conducting a personal branding audit to gather feedback and reshape how others perceive you. Brown shares practical tips for boosting visibility without self-promotion and emphasizes articulating your professional identity. The discussion also explores crafting a narrative that fosters authenticity and collaboration, highlighting the difference between mere career success and creating a lasting legacy.

5 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 30min
When You're Told You're Not Strategic Enough at Work— Here's What To Do
Dr. Luis Velasquez, an executive coach and Harvard Business Review writer, tackles the frustrating feedback of being 'not strategic enough' at work. He clarifies what strategic thinking really means and differentiates it from strategic presence. Luis shares actionable steps to enhance your strategic capabilities, regardless of role. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication and self-advocacy in responding to vague feedback, and offers tips for fostering collaboration and gaining buy-in in the workplace.

Jul 1, 2025 • 34min
How to Avoid Non-Promotable Work—According to a Former Google Exec
If you’re doing all the “right” things at work but still not getting promoted, this episode is your wake-up call. Former Google exec and Wild Courage author Jenny Wood joins us to unpack the hidden career traps that keep high performers stuck—and how to finally break through. From redefining “selfish” to reclaiming your power assets, Jenny shares the real talk (and practical tools) you need to stop spinning your wheels and start owning your career.You’ll learn:What “NAP work” is—and how to stop doing itHow to set career-protecting boundaries (without burning bridges)A mindset shift that will actually help you get promotedShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWMaui Nui Venison is offering our listeners a limited collection of my favorite cuts and products. Head to mauinuivenison.com/contessa to secure your access now.OpenPhone is offering our listeners 20% off of your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/contessa.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Guest Resources:Jenny Wood Website: https://itsjennywood.com/Wild Courage book: https://wildcouragebook.com/Woo with You:Newsletter: https://itsjennywood.com/newsletter Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.