

People in Transition
Bob Gerst
"People in Transition" is your ultimate guide to navigating life's major career changes with confidence and excitement! Whether you're a student landing your first job, a professional between gigs, an aspiring entrepreneur ready to start your own business, or someone preparing for a well-earned retirement, we've got you covered. Each episode offers unique insights and practical tips from people who have successfully walked these paths themselves as well as helped many others in their journey. Join us for an inspiring and entertaining journey through the many transitions of life!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 18, 2024 • 35min
99. Kim LoCascio - Managing Partner | Vice President of Sales & Customer Success recruiting company
In this episode, we sit down with Kim LoCascio, a seasoned Managing Partner at Sourceowls, a comprehensive recruitment service and platform. With 17 years of experience in staffing and recruiting, Kim has honed her craft in partnering with companies to uncover their perfect employee matches while aiding candidates in finding their ideal career homes. Residing in sunny Orlando, Florida, Kim shares her home with her husband, two sons - one almost three and the other just turning 15 months - and two feline companions. When not immersed in the world of recruitment, Kim relishes family time, workouts, and leisurely days out on the boat. During our conversation, Kim delves into invaluable recruiting and transition insights, covering a spectrum of tips and techniques, such as: · Overcoming job change fears by rationalizing the worst-case scenario.· Identifying company and role preferences to navigate towards fulfilling positions.· Leveraging mentors and maintaining relevance both in-person and online for effective networking.· Bringing your best self to telephone and Zoom interviews as you would in person.· Maintaining positivity and focus amidst the ups and downs of the job search journey.· Embracing transition as an integral part of life. Kim's wealth of ideas and suggestions promises to equip the listeners with the tools needed for a successful job search. Please tune in to discover how to kickstart your recruiting plans with her actionable advice. Send us a text

Feb 5, 2024 • 30min
98. Laurie Swanson - Career Transformation Coach for Women in Tech
Laurie Swanson studied business and information technology at the University of Texas. Her first job was as a computer programmer! Then, she followed her true nature and shifted into Technology Recruiting and Software Sales. She founded The Laso Corporation in 1995 and grew it to a multimillion-dollar boutique Information Technology search firm. Around 2010, Laurie began to feel the tug towards doing something new. She was evolving and knew that Laso and recruiting had run their course. After considering many different ideas for years, Laurie knew for sure that she loved supporting women to live their dreams, and she was a coach at heart. Coaching was the clear path. Laurie got certified in 2015 and rebranded Laso as InspiHER Tech, a career coaching firm for women in tech and tech-related careers who have been dreaming of resetting their careers but are not sure where to start, supporting Laurie’s mission to empower women to create the careers and lives they love through a spirit-centered approach. Laurie is a giver. She delights in giving back and is on the board of many local/Regional organizations. Laurie is a personal and spiritual growth junkie who never says no to hearing your miracle story and is happy to share one of hers – ask! During our discussion, we covered many points, including: • The importance of reconnecting with your authentic self. • Common challenges in being selected for a role – too inexperienced or not experienced enough, not asking for what you want, and remembering you can only control yourself; the rest of the process, you must let go of. • Having a mentor in your job search and career is a great idea. Laurie gives us suggestions on how to find the right one for you. • You will know you are out of career alignment when you are constantly tired, always looking at the clock for the end of the day, and over “X-ing” (e.g., overeating, drinking, etc.). • We are all born with our unformed selves; look for your passions, strengths, and values to help guide you. • On your job search journey, remember to have fun.If you are in a career rut or need help in your job search, reach out. Laurie at www.inspiHERtech.comand sign up for a conversation to see how coaching might be the best next step!Send us a text

5 snips
Jan 21, 2024 • 31min
97. David Buck - a discussion on designing an ideal Post-Career Time-Optimized Lifestyles
In this episode, David Buck, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in business development, discusses designing an ideal Post-Career Time-Optimized Lifestyle. Topics include crafting a purposeful post-career lifestyle, estimating lifespan and planning for retirement, planning as a couple, and the Retirement Time Analysis (RTA) tool.

Jan 7, 2024 • 31min
96. Debra Boggs - Founder & CEO of D&S Executive Career Management | Executive Resume, Job Search & Board Bio Expert | Forbes NEXT 1000 Entrepreneur
In this episode of "People in Transition," we're joined by Debra Boggs, an esteemed entrepreneur, international speaker, and expert in executive career growth, C-level job search strategy, and board candidate best practices. As the CEO and Founder of D&S Executive Career Management, Debra's accolades include being recognized by Forbes as a NEXT 1000 Entrepreneur and serving on the Forbes Business Council. She is also a founding Member of the Career Industry Authority and holds a master’s degree in Management. During our conversation, Debra shared invaluable insights for executives seeking their next career move. We delved into various crucial points, including: The significance of LinkedIn in your job search and effective strategies to make your profile stand out.Leveraging vendor contacts in your networking endeavors.The heightened competitiveness in executive job searches due to their limited nature, emphasizing the importance of non-technical skills.Expectations for the job search timeline (often 6 months or more) and the necessity to persist even when opportunities seem promising.Avoiding the trap of comparing your journey to others, recognizing that success stories often omit challenges faced by candidates.Clarity on desired roles, openness to new opportunities, and acknowledging the distinct nature of an executive job search. Debra imparted invaluable lessons on networking, recruitment, and navigating life's transitions. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast, leave a rating, and share this enriching conversation. Your support could be a game-changer for someone else's career journey.Send us a text

Dec 24, 2023 • 32min
95. Thea Kelley -Job Search & Interview Coach
Thea Kelley has over 15 years of experience as a job search and interview coach, catering to job seekers across the nation. Her book, "Get That Job! The Quick and Complete Guide to a Winning Interview," achieved best-seller status on Amazon and received glowing praise as "Excellent" from Forbes.com.With a focus on mock interviews, personalized feedback, and expert tips, Thea equips individuals to distinguish themselves in the job market and secure their desired positions.Her coaching aims to achieve the following for aspiring candidates:· Foster confidence: Transform the interview process from nerve-wracking to empowering.· Articulate unique value: Clearly communicate what sets you apart.· Strategically handle tough questions with authentic responses.· Develop compelling resumes, social media profiles, and career documents that compel employers to take notice.For valuable job search insights and a complimentary gift, subscribing to Thea's blog at https://jobsearchandinterviewcoach.com is a smart move. From there, access one-on-one interview coaching, assistance with resumes and social media profiles, and tailored job search strategies—proven methods to expedite your journey to landing a fantastic job opportunity.In this episode, we discussed several crucial job search topics: · Understanding your REV points (Relevant, Exceptional, and Verifiable) and leveraging them to stand out during interviews.· Emphasizing the significance of leaving a lasting impression on hiring managers through compelling stories that reinforce your suitability for the job.· Demonstrating, as a candidate, your ability to contribute solutions to the company's challenges and pain points.· Understanding the importance of nonverbal cues, particularly on platforms like Zoom, such as maintaining eye contact, smiling, and maintaining good posture.· Exploring and debunking the five detrimental myths associated with references, while learning how to turn them into an advantage.· Thea's final advice for job seekers: Preparation, authenticity, and specificity are key elements. Thea presented many insightful job search strategies and recommendations. Her clients consistently commend her for her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and genuine commitment to helping them find their next great job opportunities.Don't miss out—subscribe to this podcast, leave a rating, and share it with your friends to spread the wealth of valuable advice.Send us a text

Dec 10, 2023 • 32min
94. Annie Margarita Yang - Bestselling Author of "The 5-Day Job Search"
Annie Margarita Yang isn't just a finance expert; she's a guiding force for Millennials navigating a system that seems rigged against them.With a no-nonsense approach, Annie boasts over a million YouTube views and is the bestselling author of two impactful books: "The 5-Day Job Search" and "1,001 Ways to Save Money."Beyond her online persona, Annie leads a corporate career as an accounting manager and business operations leader in real estate. Yet, her true passion lies in empowering individuals to seize control of their financial future and find fulfilling careers.During our conversation, we explored several essential points, including:· The significance of your personal brand is often as crucial as your skills.· Crafting an approachable LinkedIn headshot using AI headshot generators, a cost-effective option under $50.· The importance of courage during transitions, as facing fear breeds confidence, enabling one to navigate challenges repeatedly.· Annie's coaching advice: apply to 50 jobs daily (350 a week) because it only takes one "yes."· A comprehensive job search strategy involving identifying career aspirations, analyzing job listings, optimizing resumes with relevant keywords, refining LinkedIn profiles, applying to numerous roles daily, and focusing on companies showing genuine interest while disregarding rejections. *Additionally, negotiate for a salary that aligns with your worth.Annie brings passion, practical wisdom, hands-on experience, and genuine compassion to the table. This episode is a treasure trove of her insights and recommendations, likely warranting multiple listens to absorb all her invaluable ideas.Send us a text

Nov 26, 2023 • 31min
93. Sarabeth Berk Bickerton - Founder and Chief Creative Disruptor
Dr. Sarabeth Berk Bickerton stands out as a preeminent authority in the realm of hybrid professional identity and career belonging. Her expertise has garnered recognition in esteemed publications such as Forbes, and she has delivered compelling talks as a TEDx speaker. Additionally, Dr. Bickerton is the author of "More Than My Title."Identifying as a "Creative Disruptor," Sarabeth operates at the intersection of being an artist, researcher, educator, and designer. Her journey towards this realization was sparked by an identity crisis, during which she discovered the profound integration of these facets, realizing the inherent value therein. In her current role, she guides professionals in uncovering and articulating their hybrid professional identities, empowering them to showcase their uniqueness within the professional landscape.During our conversation, we delved into various key aspects, exploring topics such as: · Helped define and reshape the understanding that one's professional identity extends beyond mere job titles. that your professional identity is more than just your job title.· Emphasized the importance of persistence, patience, and grounding in achieving success during the job search process. · She explored the concept of a double introduction as a powerful technique for creating more impactful first impressions, and she provided concrete examples during our discussion. · Highlighted the reciprocal nature of interviews, stressing that it's a two-way street where both the hiring manager and the candidate assess mutual fit and alignment of needs and interests.· Offered insights into effective ways for candidates to articulate their skills and personal narrative, fostering more impactful communication. · Delved into the three distinct types of professional identity, guiding individuals on self-discovery to determine their category and leverage this awareness to their advantage.For more information, see: TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZg6jaMIvIEWebsite: www.morethanmytitle.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarabethberk/ Buy the Book: More Than My Title Send us a text

Nov 12, 2023 • 34min
92. Nichole Lee - Healer | Intuitive Guide | Transformational Life Coach
Nichole Lee is a trauma-informed healer, intuitive guide, and transformational life coach. She specializes in guiding individuals who are experiencing significant life transitions, feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or overwhelmed into rediscovering who they are, healing from past pain, and charting a fulfilling new path for their lives. Before dedicating her life to healing and personal transformation, Nichole spent two decades as a Business Management Consulting Leader and Executive Coach, driving large-scale change initiatives for Fortune 500 companies. Nichole is certified in multiple disciplines, including life coaching, health coaching, spiritual coaching, energy healing (reiki, emotion code, body code), meditation and mindfulness, and trauma-sensitive heartmath practices. We discussed many recruiting, interviewing, and authenticity topics during this episode. Some of the key issues discussed include: Expanding Your Networking Circle: Your relationships may be too narrowly defined on who can help. We discussed how you can think beyond the obvious and identify new and authentic ways to connect with others in supporting your job search. Discovering Your Unique Strengths: Asking your close circle, “What's my superpower?” can provide new insights into identifying and showcasing your inherent talents during the recruiting process.Navigating Job Pivots with Clarity: We discussed how you can better understand and articulate the transferability of your past jobs and experiences with recruiters.Creative Tools for Job Search: Integrating journaling, doodling, and voice notes can be creative and fun ways to help you gain clarity on your next opportunity while also remaining focused on the objective – finding a job. Emotional Management in Job Transitions: Embracing the emotions that accompany job changes is essential. Leaving an old role and stepping into a new one is vital to your emotional well-being.Mindful Job Searching: Remember, you are not alone in your job search; your transition does not define you, and ensure you take the time to just “be” while searching for new opportunities. Nichole has seen and experienced it all – and you will get so many great ideas on how to make your own job search work better for you and have less pain/anxiety. Thank you, Nichole, for sharing with us your tips/techniques.How to Fascinate Assessment: https://www.howtofascinate.com/StrengthsFinder: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/253868/popular-cliftonstrengths-assessment-products.aspx Contact Nichole: Websites: www.nicholelee.loveIG: https://www.instagram.com/iamnicholelee/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamnicholelee/Podcast: www.transcendingidentitypodcast.comSend us a text

Oct 29, 2023 • 33min
91. Jennifer Chavez - Executive Talent Recruitment & Placement
Jennifer is the President and Managing Director of the Global Recruiters Network of Moon Valley. Global Recruiters of Moon Valley’s expertise includes recruitment of Executives & Professionals across the United States in PBM, Healthcare/Pharma/Bio, and Senior Living in Management, Financial, Operations, Sales, and Project Management roles and expertise in public speaking, consulting, and training services. As a senior Healthcare Executive at CVS Health for over 23 years across multiple healthcare and pharmaceutical industry verticals, she led client teams of all sizes. She achieved significant success through sourcing and developing high-performing talent. Serving as a volunteer, Jennifer founded the Phoenix chapter of NextUp (formerly Network of Executive Women), led their logistics team, and recruited and developed volunteers for the last ten years. Jennifer also grew up working in the restaurant business and is the wife of a chef. She is also the granddaughter, daughter, niece, and mother to military veterans, and has served as a champion for attracting, hiring, and retaining women and veterans throughout her career. Jennifer has been in your shoes as both a hiring leader and a candidate. She knows what it takes to build and retain a high-performance team and can leverage her knowledge, expertise, and deep network to help candidates and companies achieve similar success. In this episode, we discussed many practical and actionable recruiting ideas, including: · It is not that you made a mistake in the past; everyone does; it is how you overcame it and grew from the experience.· Practice your interview, which helps you gain confidence and gets you into that glow state to prepare yourself mentally.· In the recruiting process, you often have two steps forward and one back; try to be graceful for those around you, give yourself kindness, and stay connected to your network for support.· Don’t take rejection personally – maybe the position was not meant for you.· The three things to remember are to update your LinkedIn profile so people can find you leverage your network, and this is your opportunity to redefine yourself, so take advantage of it.· You may need two resumes – one that the applicant tracking system companies use can read and one for your in-person meetings. Jennifer gave us her expertise and experience in the recruiting and selection world. I know that you will be able to implement several new job transition ideas tomorrow after you have listened to this episode. Enjoy – send Jennifer or me any questions you have – leave a rating for this show – share this with others.Send us a text

Oct 15, 2023 • 31min
90. Emily Rogers - Founder The Leap To Lead - Transition and Leadership Coach - Speaker - Podcast host
A highly skilled transition and leadership coach, Emily is passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. With over two decades of experience in the field, she has helped countless clients navigate significant life transitions and develop the necessary skills to excel at life and work. Drawing from her diverse background in psychology, business, and personal development, she uses a holistic approach to coaching that addresses both the practical and emotional aspects of change. As a transition coach, she specializes in helping individuals navigate career changes, life transitions, and personal transformations. Whether transitioning into a new role, navigating a career shift, or embarking on a new life chapter, she guides her clients through the challenges, providing them with the tools and strategies needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.In this episode, Emily discussed many recruiting transition items, like:· When you are in your job transition, it is essential that you know your strengths and treat yourself with kindness.· When looking for your next job, knowing how your strengths show up in your efforts and how you use them is important.· A lack of confidence in yourself is critical to holding most people back in their job hunt.· When you draft your cover letter, make it short and straightforward, and tell why you want to be a part of the company and how you are right for the position.· Things to avoid in transition activity include being overly confident/cocky, being late for appointments, and not testing your electronic equipment to ensure it works.· Emily believes there is a job out there for good people – they need to take action to get the job – don't be paralyzed in self-doubt or fear. Emily is intelligent, experienced, caring, and fun to be with. I know you will want to listen to her more than once and share it with your friends. Make sure you leave a rating on this episode and send me any questions you might have for Emily.Send us a text