
The Uncommon Career Podcast: Transformative Career Coaching & Job Search Strategies
Navigate your career with The Uncommon Career Podcast.
Designed for professionals seeking strategic career moves, this podcast is your compass to success. If you’re a mid-level professional, you’ll have the guidance you need at every phase of your career transition.
Hosted by Patricia Ortega, a master’s educated Career Counselor and Transformational Coach, this podcast equips you with laser-focused strategies for your next move. Gain clarity on your career direction, craft a persuasive and influential brand, and harness a competitive edge that sets professionals apart.
Patricia’s proven expertise in navigating career crossroads ensures you’re armed with the tools you need to thrive, and expert guests bring practical expertise and insider information.
Topics include getting clarity on your career direction; crafting a career story; building career confidence; writing a targeted resume/LinkedIn profile and branding materials; interviewing; and handling negotiations – as well as career growth and advancement strategies.
Tune in to The Uncommon Career Podcast for an exclusive look and expert how-to’s of successful career transition and advancement.
More information at https://theuncommoncareer.com
Latest episodes

Sep 17, 2024 • 44min
77. Career Planning, Search, and Salary Tips From Jenn Smith, Career Coach & HR Consultant
Jennifer Smith of the Flourish Careers Podcast shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a career coach and HR consultant. Jenn offers insights on career development, making intentional career moves, and adapting to different career phases. She also reveals her HEART-based career planning framework and offers practical job-seeking tips, including salary negotiation strategies and the importance of aligning work with personal values. Tune in to learn from Jenn's experiences and get inspired to make impactful career decisions.
We'll Talk About:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:00 Jenn's Unconventional Career Start
05:28 Transition to HR and Career Insights
08:31 Phases of Career Development
12:29 Values and Career Alignment
19:32 Building a College Recruiting Program
21:46 Building a Student Pipeline
22:52 Transition to Career Coaching
24:44 Starting a Business Amidst a Pandemic
26:08 Navigating Career Changes
28:48 HR Insights for Job Seekers
31:02 Negotiating Salary and Compensation
38:36 The HEART Framework
41:53 Final Thoughts and Farewell
About Jenn Smith
Before I became a career coach and HR consultant for heart-based professionals, my roots were deeply grounded in corporate America, including 15 years in HR departments at Fortune 200 organizations.
Now as a career coach and consultant, I've had the honor of supporting thousands of professionals around the world by assisting them with discovering and pursuing career intentions better aligned with their hearts and spirits while prioritizing well-being—and I believe we're all the better for it.
Connect with Jenn
Learn about Jenn at https://flourish.careers/
Listen to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flourish-careers-podcast/id1644521346
Connect to Jenn on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/flourish.careers/
Connect to Jenn on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferlsmith9200/
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Connect with Me
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Click here to learn about coaching

Sep 10, 2024 • 14min
76. Move Past The Fear of Networking
We delve into the common fears associated with networking, such as judgment, rejection, and social risks, and explore why these fears often arise. We also discuss practical strategies to shift the focus from ourselves to others, thereby reducing anxiety.
The episode also outlines the general framework of a networking conversation, from initial greetings to closing out, providing listeners with actionable steps to feel more comfortable and confident in networking situations. Tune in to discover how imagining positive outcomes can balance the perceived threats and uncover the real opportunities that networking can offer.
We'll Talk About
00:00 Introduction to Networking Fears
00:33 Common Networking Fears
02:03 Perceived Threats vs. Real Opportunities
04:39 Visualizing Networking Success
06:28 Improv Techniques for Networking
07:06 The Networking Conversation Framework
09:56 Closing the Conversation
11:51 Conclusion and Encouragement
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Connect with Me:
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Click here to learn about coaching

Sep 3, 2024 • 29min
75. Networking From Zero to a Community of Professionals w/Stephen Morris
Today, Stephen from Renown Leadership back to shares his personal journey, retiring in the army with no civilian contacts to becoming an adept networker, offering valuable tips for introverts and extroverts alike.
We cover key strategies such as leveraging strengths, the role of personality assessments, and the importance of genuine interactions. Stephen emphasizes building relationships and the power of active listening, making this episode a treasure trove of advice for anyone looking to improve their networking skills.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introductions
00:49 The Importance of Networking
01:43 Tips for Introverts in Networking
03:23 Steven's Networking Journey
04:28 The Power of Genuine Connections
08:54 Building and Nurturing Relationships
11:53 Understanding Personality in Networking
14:03 Leveraging Strengths and Weaknesses
24:22 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
About Stephen Jarvis Morris
Leadership is where I thrive. It's what I am passionate about and what I have been doing for the past 21 years of my professional career in the Military and Corporate worlds. I've been blessed to have some of the most spectacular examples of leadership anyone could ask for, and now it is my passion to share everything I have learned d with others as a Leadership Development and Career Coach. As a United States Army veteran, I have spent much of my adult life serving my country and leading combat and non-combat deployments worldwide. After leaving the Army, I joined the civilian workforce with leadership roles for several divisions of one organization. Inspired by the great leaders I have known and how they molded me into the celebrated leader I had become, I started Renowned Leadership. My purpose is to help people become authentic leaders with character and integrity. Leaders whom everyone wants to follow.
Connect with Stephen:
Web: https://www.renownedleadership.com/
Podcast: https://renownedleadership.com/podcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-j-morris-143028251/
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Connect with Me:
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Click here to learn about coaching

Aug 27, 2024 • 29min
74. Elevated Leadership: Leading a New Team
Patricia and Julianna delve into the essentials of gaining trust from a new team as a leader. They discuss common pitfalls like aiming for short-term wins that could undermine long-term trust. The conversation also touches on modeling flexibility, managing expectations from higher-ups, and the importance of facilitating team strengths. The hosts share practical examples and strategies for new leaders to build a strong, trusting team dynamic.
This episode is part of the Elevated Leadership Series, co-hosted by Julianna Yau Yorgan and Patricia Ortega.
We'll talk about:
00:00 Introduction to Elevated Leadership
00:51 Common Missteps in New Leadership Roles
02:10 Balancing Short-Term Wins and Long-Term Strategies
04:48 Effective Communication and Empathy
09:46 Strategic Changes and Team Buy-In
19:30 Leadership Insights and Personal Stories
26:56 Summary and Conclusion
Elevated Leadership
Elevated Leadership is available on both The Uncommon Career Podcast and The Daring to Succeed Podcast.
Listen to the Daring to Succeed Podcast to get to know Julianna: https://www.jyycoaching.com/podcast/
Connect with Julianna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliannayauyorgan/
Connect with Me:
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Click here to learn about coaching

Aug 20, 2024 • 25min
73. Mastering Leadership and Management with Roberta Matuson
In this episode, we dive into leadership and management strategies with executive coach and advisor Roberta Matuson. We cover essential topics such as managing up and building relationships, creating a framework for organizational success, and transitioning to executive roles. Roberta shares insights from her book 'Suddenly in Charge' and discusses the concept of 'magnetic leadership' along with personal growth through executive coaching. Listeners will gain valuable advice on effective leadership and practical steps for both personal and professional development.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:36 Roberta's Background and Expertise
01:14 Discussing 'Suddenly In Charge'
02:25 Understanding Managing Up
07:55 Navigating Organizational Politics
11:08 Magnetic Leadership
14:38 The Coaching Process
23:27 Conclusion and Contact Information
About Roberta Matuson:
Roberta Matuson, The Talent Maximizer® and LinkedIn Top Voice in Workplace and Leadership For more than 25 years, Roberta Matuson, president of Matuson Consulting, has helped leaders in highly regarded companies, including General Motors, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and Microsoft, and small to medium-size businesses achieve dramatic growth and market leadership through the maximization of talent. She’s the author of seven books including, the newly released, third edition of Suddenly In Charge: Managing Up, Managing Down, Succeeding All Around, a Washington Post Top 5 Business Book For Leaders, The Magnetic Leader, and Evergreen Talent: How to Seed, Cultivate, and Grow a Sustainable Workforce. Roberta is one of a handful of people who have appeared as a guest of Bill O’Reilly’s on Fox’s O’Reilly Factor, and who left the show unscathed.
Connect with Roberta:
Read Roberta's Books: https://matusonconsulting.com/books/
Connect with Roberta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberta-matuson/
Roberta's website: https://matusonconsulting.com/
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Connect with me:
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Click here to learn about coaching

Aug 13, 2024 • 9min
72. How only two words can position you to get hired
Are you tired of leaders and employers assuming they know what you do?
Let's get into the process of repositioning yourself as an industry expert, so that leaders and employers don't look past your experience assuming they know what you do. You'll be able to start from self-reflection and work through the process, culminating in a powerful two-word brand and a few short statements.
We'll talk about:
Finding your niche
Creating a unique professional title that garners curiosity
Incorporating it into your career brand materials
Resources Shared:
The Introvert's Edge to Networking by Matthew Pollard and Derek Lewis
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Thanks for Listening!
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Work with me: Click here to schedule a conversation

Aug 6, 2024 • 30min
71. Embrace your "misfit" and stand out, with Steph Gillies
Career Coach Steph Gillis shares her journey of working 32 jobs in 15 years and the role of authenticity and personal branding along the way. She shares how she helps others now to stand out in their job search, embrace their uniqueness, and find career happiness.
We'll talk about:
Embracing authenticity in the career search
Trauma-informed coaching
Choice, courage, and authenticity
About Steph Gillis:
Steph Gillies is a Career Story Coach, helping individuals embrace their misfit identity and land their dream job. Steph had 32 jobs in 15 years and through that experience she really learned how to perfect the job search. When she was laid off from what she thought was her dream job in 2020, she jumped full time into business as a resume writer and career coach. She has since helped over 1000 people improve their branding and land their dream job.
Resources Shared
Connect with Steph Gillis on LinkedIn.
www.destinationdreamjob.com
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Thanks for Listening!
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Work with me: Click here to schedule a conversation

Jul 30, 2024 • 37min
70. How to Deal with a Narcissistic Boss (Elevated Leadership)
Feeling trapped under the weight of a narcissistic boss?
Julianna and Patricia help you deal with difficult leaders. From navigating fragile egos to setting boundaries, we'll explore strategies to balance emotional intelligence and strategic execution. Julianna shares insights on managing relationships with narcissistic bosses. Patricia highlights the signs indicating it's time to move on, focusing on mental health and ethical standards. The episode wraps up with a strategic approach to leverage this uncomfortable situation into new opportunities within the company.
This episode is part of the Elevated Leadership Series, co-hosted by Julianna Yau Yorgan and Patricia Ortega.
We'll talk about:
Managing narcissistic personalities effectively
Setting clear boundaries
Recognizing signs to move on
Elevated Leadership is available on both The Uncommon Career Podcast and The Daring to Succeed Podcast.
Listen to the Daring to Succeed Podcast to get to know Julianna: https://www.jyycoaching.com/podcast/
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Thanks for Listening!
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Work with me: Click here to schedule a conversation

Jul 23, 2024 • 27min
69. Before your resume: seven branding steps to get noticed
Are you tired of feeling like "just another resume to reject" when applying for jobs?
Learn seven principles behind branding strategy that need to be considered before you work on your resume. Develop a clear value proposition, use the often forgotten component to a compelling message, and build a career presence that engages across all your brand materials.
We'll talk about:
Repositioning yourself as expert
Finding and using your edge
How to influence with personality and emotion
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Thanks for Listening!
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Work with me: Click here to schedule a conversation

Jul 16, 2024 • 26min
68. Overcome a layoff and build career insurance, with Anna Morgan
Are you ready to transform your career after a layoff?
Anna turned her layoff into an opportunity. From the emotional rollercoaster of being let go to the practical steps of building a resilient career, Anna shares valuable insights on navigating layoffs. Today, she helps professionals become "layoff-proof" and build career insurance.
We'll talk about:
Embracing the emotions and taking rest.
Resume tips and your digital footprint.
How to be proactive and stay visible.
About Anna Morgan:
From career misfit to becoming a top 5% recruiter, Anna's journey is a beacon for those feeling overlooked in their career paths. Her company, CAREERBFF, stands at the intersection of recruiting, consulting, and coaching. With over 15 years of experience in talent acquisition, Anna has screened over a million resumes, conducted interviews with over 11,000 job seekers, negotiated thousands of salaries, and collaborated with nearly 2,800 hiring managers across diverse industries. She is a top talent in placing job seekers at all levels as well as an empathetic ally for those navigating mental health, ADHD, and alcohol recovery. Anna also advises recruiters and HR departments across North America. Whether you're seeking to jumpstart your career or need strategic business advice, Anna Morgan can be your career or business BFF—guiding, inspiring, and transforming your professional journey.
Connect with Anna:
www.annamorgancareerbff.com
Connect with Anna Morgan on LinkedIn
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Thanks for Listening!
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/pmortega
Get started with your career move: Download The Career Transition Checklist
Work with me: Click here to schedule a conversation