
Squiggly Careers
Squiggly Careers is a weekly podcast that will help you take control of your career development. Hosted by the founders of Amazing If (https://www.amazingif.com/), Sarah Ellis and Helen Tupper, together they cover all things work: from how to manage stress and overcome your confidence gremlins to micro-aggressions and discovering your strengths. Each episode is full of ideas, actions, hints, and tips that you can put into practice straight away. Every so often they take a break from talking to each other to interview other people who are leading the way in making work better. Past guests include entrepreneur and philanthropist Dame Stephanie Shirley, author of The Joy of Work Bruce Daisley, and neuroscience expert Amy Brann. The Squiggly Careers podcast has been recommended by Harvard Business Review, Stylist, Marie Claire and Management Today.For more ideas, tools and inspiration every week, you can also sign up to their newsletter Squiggly Careers in Action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

11 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 32min
#488 Coping with curveballs – what to do when your day doesn’t go to plan
Ever had a day disrupted by an unexpected request or surprise task? The hosts dive into the common curveballs that can throw anyone off balance. They share personal anecdotes on adapting to change and the importance of maintaining composure. Listeners learn practical tips for thinking on their feet and preventing small issues from escalating. Discover how to navigate life's unpredictability with confidence and resilience, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

21 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 28min
#487 Ask the Expert - The Power of Influence and the Messenger Effect with Steve Martin
Join Steve Martin, a renowned author and expert on the science of influence, as he delves into the critical role of the messenger in communication. He explains how the effectiveness of a message can hinge more on who delivers it than on the content itself. Discover the nuances of hard versus soft messenger traits and learn practical tips to enhance your influence—especially in remote settings like Zoom. With insights on trust, connection, and effective communication strategies, you'll be ready to make your messages resonate!

13 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 32min
#486 Why you don't delegate (and what to do differently)
Feeling overwhelmed by tasks? Discover the reasons behind our struggle to delegate, even when we know we should. Learn about four common mistakes to avoid and how to empower others without micromanaging. The discussion highlights the importance of clear communication, setting expectations, and embracing diverse perspectives in teamwork. Gain insights on how to let go of control and foster collaboration, all while maintaining trust and support for your team. It's time to delegate with confidence!

8 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 37min
#485 Why Thinking Together Boosts Team Performance
Discover the art of thinking together for better team performance. The hosts share innovative tools like 'worry lists' and 'borrowed brilliance' to spark collaboration. Find out how a practical matrix can help you choose the right approach to boost creativity. Learn techniques for fostering open communication and tackling challenges with exercises like 'What's Not Working.' With insights on structured and collective thinking, your team can transform ideas into actionable solutions. Get ready to enhance your team's dynamics!

10 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 29min
#484 How Role modelling leads to rewards for your career
Discover the dual benefits of being a role model in your career. Explore how intentional role modeling enhances your visibility and builds strong connections. Learn that true role models reflect everyday habits rather than extraordinary feats. Uncover practical tips for personal growth and effective communication. Delve into how networking motivations shape outcomes and the powerful effect of deliberate role modeling on team dynamics. It's a fresh look at inspiring others while advancing your own career!

52 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 34min
#483 Ask the Expert: How to have better conversations with Jefferson Fisher
Jefferson Fisher, a lawyer, speaker, and author of 'The Next Conversation,' shares insights on enhancing communication skills. He delves into navigating tricky conversations, managing interruptions, and adapting to different conversational styles. Jefferson highlights the importance of self-advocacy and reframing people-pleasing as a strength to foster deeper connections. Listeners will learn practical strategies for clarity and confidence in difficult dialogues, ultimately transforming their professional interactions into more meaningful exchanges.

14 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 32min
#482 How to Stay in Control During Change At Work
Navigating workplace change can feel daunting, but embracing the right mindset is key. Discover practical actions to regain control, from setting one-word intentions to recognizing growth opportunities. Hear about the power of self-care and building connections, especially during transitions. Learn how to reframe challenges into personal narratives that empower you. With anecdotes and strategies, this discussion equips you to stay resilient and proactive, even when change feels overwhelming.

8 snips
May 27, 2025 • 35min
#481 Four AI Prompts To Accelerate Your Squiggly Career
Discover how AI can supercharge your career with practical prompts! Explore strategies for enhancing work relationships and getting unstuck during uncertain times. Learn to navigate communication styles for better teamwork and personal dynamics. Unpack the tools for improving your LinkedIn profile and personal branding. Gain insights into aligning your professional journey with your values, all while leveraging creative AI approaches to foster growth and networking in your squiggly career.

28 snips
May 20, 2025 • 29min
#480 The Art of Noticing: 9 Ways To Start Noticing At Work
Explore the art of noticing at work to enhance creativity and engagement. The hosts discuss how paying attention to what's unsaid in meetings can foster better communication. Learn practical strategies to spot uncompleted tasks and embrace curiosity for team growth. They emphasize the importance of specific feedback in recognizing colleague strengths. Tune in to discover how intentional observation can transform your workplace experience and lead to meaningful change.

13 snips
May 13, 2025 • 29min
#479 How To Manage Future Career Fear
Explore the fears around skill development and how to tackle them head-on. Learn to identify which skills are most relevant today and for your future. Discover ways to stretch your strengths while making time for learning, even in a busy schedule. Delve into the importance of peer support through skill swaps and the value of having a skill sponsor. Get practical tips on blending personal passions with professional needs, especially in fast-paced fields like marketing.