Career Sessions, Career Lessons
Each of us has a unique career story to tell. For the lucky few, their career trajectories are like rockets heading for the stars, with no turning back. More typically, our career paths are more like a game of Chutes and Ladders, with advances and setbacks along the way. On this podcast, guests from a range of industries and backgrounds share their career journeys and the lessons they've learned. Hear from C-level executives, leading academics, entrepreneurs, mid-level leaders, ex-military members, leadership coaches and other career experts, non-profit workers, and gig economy participants. Each guest shares their unique story and career insights to inform and inspire your own path. Career Sessions is part of PathWise.io. Whether you’re just a few years out of school or well into your professional life, PathWise helps you live the career you deserve. PathWise provides comprehensive career and professional development coaching, content, courses, and community, backed by a group of leading coaches and career management experts. Career Sessions’ host, James (J.R.) Lowry, has had multiple careers of his own and learned countless lessons along the way. A Duke engineer by background, he spent the early part of his career as an officer in the US Air Force . From there, J.R. earned an MBA from Harvard Business School to accelerate his transition into the private sector. Following grad school, he spent over a decade with the consulting firm, McKinsey and Company, working with clients across a range of industries and business situations. He then made a second career shift into financial services, spending time at Fidelity Investments and State Street Bank. Most recently, he joined Janus Henderson Investments as their Chief Operating Officer. Multiple leadership development programs honed his skills, advanced his career, and fueled his desire to help others with their professions. He hosts this podcast in a personal capacity, and any views expressed are his own and not those of his current or any former employer.
Latest episodes
Nov 20, 2023 • 44min
Software's Move Into The Cloud, With Dai Vu
Google has been building the Cloud Marketplace to become more advantageous through its comprehensive user experience, making software deployment way easier for developers and end users alike. J.R. Lowry talks to the man behind this incredible undertaking: Dai Vu, Managing Director of Google’s Cloud Marketplace. He shares how they handle the rapid growth of Google Cloud, particularly now that it has reached more than 1,000 solution partners and 3,000 solution listings. Dai also talks about his situational and collaborative leadership style, detailing how he sets a vision for his team, focuses on employee wellbeing, and gives importance to taking frequent breaks. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/dai-vu/
Nov 13, 2023 • 50min
Job Search Tips - From Resumes To Offer Negotiation, With Kolby Goodman
When out on a job search, you must know how to effectively catch employers’ attention and entice them to hire you. This is not just about having the right level of self-confidence, but also the right strategy to position yourself as the best one among the rest. J.R. Lowry sits down with Kolby Goodman, Founder of The Job Huntr, to share his most important job search tips. He talks about building a strong personal branding, writing a resume for both human and AI consumption, and making interviews more about relationship building. Kolby also explains the importance of prioritizing self-health to grow your career and the positive side of losing your job. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/kolby-goodman.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Nov 6, 2023 • 46min
The Mirrored Door: The Hidden Barrier That Locks Successful Women In Place, With Ellen Taaffe
Courage is the key to success – unlock the 'Mirrored Door' that's holding you back and step into the spotlight of your own career. This episode reveals the secret to women's success with our special guest, Ellen Taaffe, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Kellogg School of Management. Today, we open the "Mirrored Door" that holds women back from reaching their full career potential. Ellen's groundbreaking book, The Mirrored Door, dives into the hidden obstacles that successful women face, but rarely talk about. She explores how this problem affects not only women but can also resonate with men, including the ever-present Imposter Syndrome. Join us and transform your approach to career success today! Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/ellen-taaffeBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Oct 30, 2023 • 43min
Seeing Others - Recognition As A Foundation For Equity And Inclusion, With Michèle Lamont
Recognition is the currency of belonging. It's not about what you have, but who you are. In this episode, we explore the critical and often overlooked aspect of achieving true equity and inclusion in our society. Our featured guest, Michèle Lamont, sociologist and author of Seeing Others: The Sociological Ethnography of Recognition, guides us through the importance of recognition and how it serves as the bedrock for a more inclusive world. Michèle touches on several issues throughout the episode, such as the American dream, the impact of AI, tribalism, and the role of cultural entrepreneurs. Diving into her extensive interviews and studies, Michèle discusses how individuals and organizations can become catalysts for change by connecting to others and creating a force multiplier effect. Tune in now and discover how recognition can shape a brighter and more inclusive future for all of us. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/michele-lamont/Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Oct 23, 2023 • 51min
Navigating Organizational Politics, With Niven Postma
Mastering office politics isn't about playing the game; it's about defining the rules. Join us with Niven Postma, author of "If You Don't Do Politics, Politics Will Do You," in learning how to navigate organizational politics ethically— and yes, it is possible. In this episode, Niven uncovers the hidden dynamics of office politics, the power of leverage, and how to build your career path in this highly political world. Drafting insights from her book, Niven discusses how there are unspoken rules and strategies that shape your workplace, and why ignoring them might be a career-limiting move. On the contrary, learning how the game works and developing “tough empathy” can help you leverage politics and navigate your career. Tune in and learn how to master office politics, achieve professional success, and design a career that reflects your values and aspirations. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/niven-postma/. Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Oct 16, 2023 • 45min
Demystifying Executive Search, With Somer Hackley
Do you feel like you can do more in a higher position job but don’t know how to navigate your way to the top? Here to demystify executive search is Somer Hackley, the founder and CEO of retained executive search firm, Distinguished Search. Somer has been in recruiting for 20 years, including the last 13 years in executive search. In this episode, she cracks open the opaque black box that is the world of executive search. What are some misconceptions people have about recruiters and search firms? What is the relationship between the recruiter and the firm? How do you build that recruiter relationship and nurture it? What should a job searcher do to get themselves off to a great start? Somer answers these questions and more, bringing wisdom from her book, Search in Plain Sight: Demystifying Executive Search. Plus, she takes us behind the scenes of the search process, letting us in on what unfolds between the hiring and search firms. The executive table is no longer just the cool kids’ table that you can’t get in. With these tips and insights, you can put yourself in a position where even jobs come to you versus you having to find them. Join Somer in this conversation! Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/somer-hackleyBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now
Oct 9, 2023 • 49min
Executive Leadership: Learning Alongside Legends, With Ann Hiatt
Success is not reserved for the chosen few—it's about finding audacity within and humility to learn. Join us as Ann Hiatt dives into the world of executive leadership and what it’s like to learn alongside legends. She shares her incredible career, from her days as the right hand to Jeff Bezos, the founder and CEO of Amazon, to her pivotal role as Chief of Staff to Eric Schmidt, the former CEO and Chair of Google. In a world where career fulfillment can often feel like a distant dream, Ann inspires individuals to find purpose in their work and redefine their paths. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the dynamic blend of audacity and humility that drives success at the highest levels. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear what it’s like learning alongside legends. Tune in now!Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/ann-hiattBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now
Oct 3, 2023 • 41min
Personal Branding And Zig-Zag Careers, With Susan Meier
Your personal brand is the masterpiece that emerges from coloring outside the lines. Embrace the beauty of zigzagging through life's diverse experiences and passions. In this episode, we have Susan Meier, a remarkable brand consultant, coach, and multimedia artist, to dive into the art of crafting a career that zigzags beautifully. Susan defies the traditional career ladder, embracing the idea of "zigzagging" through different industries and passions. She discusses the power of personal branding, zig-zagging to success, embracing uncertainty, and how they all can lead to unexpected opportunities and profound personal growth. Tune in to color outside the lines, challenge the norm, and explore the diverse facets of creativity. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/susan-meierBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Sep 25, 2023 • 46min
Becoming the Trusted Authority, with Petra Zink
Your personal brand isn't just about what you do; it's about who you become. Become the trusted authority in your field, and your brand will follow. In this episode, we sit down with Petra Zink, a certified Personal Branding & Digital Strategist, international speaker, Business Growth Consultant, and most recently, the author of Trusted Authority. Today, she unravels the secrets behind building an influential personal brand that stands the test of time. Petra tells her journey from traditional marketing to digital expertise, sharing her realization of the essential role of strategic thinking in personal branding. Petra also emphasizes the significance of staying curious and adaptable to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the modern job market. She explores the impact of her book and how it serves as a powerful business card, proving how you can leverage your expertise to open doors and seize opportunities. Join us to uncover the art of personal branding and set you on a path to becoming the trusted authority in your field. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/petra-zinkBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now
Sep 18, 2023 • 43min
The World Of Franchise Ownership, With Giuseppe Grammatico
Are you tired of feeling stuck working on a corporate job just to make others rich? Now is the time for you to change things around! Today, Giuseppe Grammatico, the author of Franchise Freedom: A New Manifesto for Your Financial and Time Freedom, opens the portal for you to enter into the world of franchise ownership. Sharing insights on the different business models of franchising, the myths of franchising, and mistakes most people make in this space, this episode provides a guide for everyone to detach themselves from the corporate trap and transcend into the freedom of franchise ownership brings to their lives. For Giuseppe, franchising is a powerful vehicle for success, which can also be yours! So tune in to this conversation and enter the world of franchising to discover how it can deliver you freedom and success. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/giuseppe-grammaticoBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now
