Bucket List Careers

Meet Rebecca Kushner, a CPA and Fractional CFO who took the leap from a traditional corporate accounting and finance career to build a business on her own terms. Driven by a desire to marry her financial expertise with her personal values, Rebecca now helps holistic health practitioners and service providers navigate the "scary" side of their business with heart and humanity. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your own career pivot or need a roadmap for your business's financial health, Rebecca shares the substance of how she works. We dive into: Financial Empowerment: How she uses personalized financial strategy to help clients understand their numbers without the overwhelm. Pricing for Profit: Actionable insights on optimizing pricing and capacity so your business supports your life, not the other way around. The "Human" CFO: Why she believes financial decisions should be aligned with your values and long-term vision. The Career Leap: What it really takes to transition from a corporate role to a values-driven entrepreneur.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Searching for career clarity in 2026? Career coach Dara Astmann returns to the podcast to discuss navigating career transitions for moms. Drawing from 20 years of experience in media and sales, Dara offers actionable advice on defining your "second act" and building a supportive professional community. Listen in for new year reflections and a first look at her latest coaching programs designed to help you transition with confidence!  As promised in the episode, here's a link to Dara's Career Path Tracker: https://daraastmann.myflodesk.com/tracker The Career Path Tracker helps you stop spinning, keep options open, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it take to turn a lifelong love of wine into an actual winemaking career when you don’t know the first thing about making it? Christy Counts, Founder and Owner of Neverstill Wines in Hudson, NY, did exactly that — trading a career in business management and animal welfare advocacy for the uncertain world of winemaking. In this episode, Christy shares the reality of her pivot: the steep learning curve, the moments of doubt, and the patience required to build something meaningful in a tradition-bound industry. From her first days learning the craft to the milestones that made it all worthwhile, her story reveals what it really means to trust yourself and commit to a new path. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to pursue a passion, this conversation is for you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special throwback, Christa highlights one of her all-time favorite guests from the episode that started it all: DJ April Larken. April spent years in the New York City fashion scene before taking a career break to raise her children. After beating cancer, she made a bold pivot in her 40s, enrolling in Scratch Academy to pursue her passion for DJing. Drawing on her background in fashion design and a lifelong love of clubs and music, April now spins vinyl at A-list events throughout the New York and Connecticut. In this episode, she shares her journey of creative reinvention and offers inspiring tips for discovering your purpose at any age. Learn more about DJ April Larken at djaprillarken.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Katherine Gold left teaching to turn her passion for beautiful, functional spaces into a thriving business in New York—without formal training or a clear roadmap. In this episode, we hear how she built Katherine Gold Design from the ground up, leaning on her instincts, people skills, and a natural eye for design, to prove that it’s never too late to create the life you want. As a mom of three, Katherine knows firsthand how important it is for a space to be both stylish and livable. She believes great design has the power to make you feel put together, even while living a busy life. Her aesthetic is a blend of classic and modern, inspired by the pre-war buildings of New York City, fashion, travel, and the beauty of everyday living. Listen in to hear how Katherine turned life’s transitions into an opportunity for growth, creativity, and connection — and how she helps others design spaces that truly feel like home! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Meet Annie Berger, a former Division I dual-sport athlete who pivoted from a successful career in legal marketing to become a Mental Performance Coach and founder of Match Mindset. After pausing her career to care for family and rediscovering her competitive drive through tennis, Annie experienced firsthand the power of mental skills in transforming performance and perspective. Now she helps athletes strengthen their mindset, embrace challenges, and play with more confidence, focus, and joy. Listen in to hear how Annie turned her personal journey of resilience and reinvention into a career helping others unlock their potential — both on and off the court! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we share the inspiring story of Andrea Della Mura, who began her battle with breast cancer at just 24 years old. Decades later, Andrea is not only a two-time cancer survivor but also a passionate wellness entrepreneur. Teaming up with her son, who faces his own autoimmune challenges, Andrea launched The DRIPBaR in Rye, New York—a wellness business dedicated to IV vitamin therapy. Together, they help clients "fuel their lives by feeding their cells" with treatments focused on energy, recovery, immunity, and anti-aging. Listen in to hear Andrea’s remarkable journey of resilience and how she’s turning personal challenges into hope and healing for others! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With over two decades of experience at renowned companies like Disney and Weight Watchers, Aransas Savas discusses how her passion for meaningful motivation evolved, leading her to pivot her career to coaching after a layoff that became the best thing that could have happened to her. In this episode, she shares insights on behavior change, the importance of deep listening, and how she built a portfolio career grounded in purpose. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to pursue their own career change! Aransas emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence and resilience, particularly in her coaching work with women. The conversation also highlights her podcast, Uplifters, which aims to inspire change and foster community building through shared stories and experiences, encouraging listeners to seek meaningful professional pivots! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After spending 15 years in the fast-paced world of corporate media and advertising in NYC, Sasha Cohen found herself yearning for something more meaningful. The shift to the suburbs opened her eyes to the struggles of local businesses, many of which lacked the marketing resources they needed to thrive. Motivated by a desire to make a difference and after a life-changing health scare, she founded Sasha Claire Growth & Brand Management, dedicated to providing affordable and strategic marketing solutions for small businesses in Westchester, NY and beyond. Join us as Sasha shares her inspiring story of resilience, purpose, and empowerment. Discover how she turned her passion for local advocacy into a thriving career, and learn the lessons she’s gathered along the way that can inspire anyone looking to redefine their professional journey. Listen in for a conversation filled with insights on finding your true calling and the impact of community-focused work! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With a career spanning music promotion, marketing, publishing, nonprofit leadership, and entrepreneurship, Anika Jackson knows firsthand how powerful—and challenging—a career change can be. Her journey began in Chicago’s house music scene and took her from nightlife marketing in Los Angeles to launching major magazines in San Francisco. After stepping away to focus on philanthropy and nonprofit work, she reinvented herself again as an entrepreneur, consultant with a focus on AI advocacy, and top-rated podcast host. As the creator of Your Brand Amplified® and a graduate instructor at USC Annenberg, Anika now helps others leverage storytelling and strategy to navigate their own career pivots.  Her story is proof that embracing change can lead to new opportunities and unexpected success. Listen now! Connect with Anika: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tina Langley Walsh began her professional journey in fashion editorial in New York City, working with prominent publications such as GQ, Harper’s Bazaar, Seventeen, and Nylon. She later took on the role of Fashion Director at Fisher Footwear, collaborating with well-known brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Kendall + Kylie. However, during the pandemic, Tina unearthed her true passion for horticulture and floriculture, which has roots in her family’s business in the Philippines. Today, Tina is the creative force behind Lavish Gardener, specializing in designing stunning outdoor spaces, floral installations, and custom seasonal décor. With her keen eye for style and a deep love for fashion, she infuses a unique flair into landscape design. In this episode, Tina discusses her transition from the fashion industry, sharing insights on how she established her business from the ground up and why creating extraordinary spaces truly lights her up! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lauren Tetenbaum has taken on many roles throughout her career - but they all share a common mission: to empower, support, and connect women.  Early in her journey, Lauren earned both her Master of Social Work (MSW) and Juris Doctor (JD) degrees simultaneously in her hometown of New York City after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania. As an immigration lawyer, she provided compassionate support to clients escaping persecution, abuse, and trauma. She later shifted her focus to maternal mental health and now offers career and life coaching specifically for millennial women navigating life's transitions.  In this episode, Lauren shares her transformative journey from law to social work, her focus on women's health, particularly around menopause, and the challenges she faced while writing her book, 'Millennial Menopause: Preparing for Perimenopause, Menopause, and Life’s Next Period'. This conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about women's health issues, the value of community support and finding purpose in one's career! More about Lauren below: https://thecounselaur.com/ Takeaways Lauren Tetenbaum has always been passionate about helping women. Her career journey includes law and social work, focusing on women's issues. Navigating motherhood and career can be challenging, especially during the pandemic. The importance of mental health support for women in the workplace. Menopause is a topic that needs more attention and discussion. Writing a book is a significant commitment, especially for busy women. It's essential to prioritize sleep and self-care during busy times. Imposter syndrome is a common challenge for women in their careers. Finding purpose in work can be a journey, and it's okay to pivot. Aging should be viewed as a privilege, not a stigma. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lauren Tetenbaum 01:03 Career Journey and Early Ambitions 02:51 Navigating Life Transitions and the Pandemic 05:50 The Concept of Millennial Menopause 08:47 Writing the Book: Challenges and Insights 11:37 Key Takeaways and Advice for Listeners Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Whitney Faires is an internationally recognized coach, keynote speaker, and leadership strategist who empowers her clients to overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary levels of performance with greater fulfillment. She spent 16 years at Intuitive Surgical, where she led global leadership development and helped scale a $2B business line. Now she helps high achievers—especially those ready for something more—pivot into values-aligned leadership roles with clarity and confidence. A leading authority in developing high-performing teams and coaching industry executives worldwide, she focuses on helping people master their mindset to unlock their full potential and thrive both personally and professionally. In this episode Whitney and Christa cover the importance of personal growth, overcoming self-doubt, and the significance of building a supportive network! Website: whitneyfaires.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-faires-14955a38/ Instagram: @whitney_faires Keywords: coaching, personal development, self-doubt, career transition, support network, entrepreneurship, leadership, empowerment, growth, mentorship Takeaways: **Whitney transitioned from a corporate career to coaching to fulfill her passion for helping others grow. **High performers often seek more than just financial success; they crave impact and fulfillment. **Creating a supportive environment is crucial for pe achieving your career goals. **Building a business while still employed can provide the confidence needed to make a career leap. **It's essential to have a clear plan and understanding of your value before transitioning careers. **Mentorship and accountability are vital for navigating career changes successfully. **Follow-through on commitments to mentors is crucial for maintaining valuable relationships. **Finding the right fit with a coach or mentor can significantly impact your growth journey. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Coaching: A Personal Transformation 12:03 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Change 18:11 Building a Supportive Network and Finding Your Tribersonal and professional growth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fitness entrepreneur Brian Mazza founded High Performance Lifestyle Ventures — which offers a powerful 4-day retreat packed with human performance growth in an immersive, team-driven environment. Guests can expect keynote speakers, sunrise yoga & meditation, multiple HIIT classes, and more to help them unlock their full potential and kickstart the next chapter of their life. In this studio episode of Bucket List Careers, Brian shares how he carved his career path, seized every opportunity to network, and said "Yes!" to big ideas with confidence over fear! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For twenty years, Ali Pearlman worked in the fast-paced world of New York City fashion, using her skills in styling, marketing, and show production with big companies, celebrities, and innovative designers. Then, as a journalist, her thoughtful pieces were featured in The New York Times, New York Daily News, and amNewYork. But it wasn't until 2024 that Ali decided to take her diverse career experiences, love for sustainable practices, and her roots in Los Angeles and start something new. She opened Saved By Zero, a designer vintage boutique in Harrison, NY, aiming to combat fast fashion while promoting real human connections and our shared responsibility towards the planet. A talented stylist, she focuses on moving past temporary trends, highlighting personal style, and showing that vintage can be totally modern. In this episode, Ali shares how she created a space full of unique vintage and designer gems—each with its own story and purpose. Tune in for her insights on shifting careers with intention, building a business based on your values, and bringing vintage fashion into the modern age. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Betsy Parker is the CEO of Sunny, an innovative nonprofit dedicated to helping people build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. Under her leadership, Sunny’s team of designers, behavioral scientists, content creators and technology experts develop practical, research-backed solutions that help individuals and workplaces feel more connected. Throughout her career, Betsy has been an organization builder, with a track record of scaling new businesses, launching high-growth initiatives, and elevating iconic consumer brands. She brought her expertise to WW, Consumer Reports, and Thrasio, where she helped unlock new possibilities for growth and impact. In this episode, Betsy shares her pivots and career evolution to CEO with a track record of scaling businesses to bring big ideas to life! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lauren Magel was an English as a Second Language teacher when the pandemic inspired her to reimagine her career. A devoted mother of three and a five-time NYC Marathon finisher, she turned to CBD products to alleviate muscle recovery and back pain. The relief she experienced shattered her initial skepticism. Today, Lauren is a passionate hemp wellness educator with Green Compass, offering a full line of USDA-certified organic hemp wellness products. She guides individuals in discovering the right solutions for their lives, helping them find relief from anxiety, muscle tension, back pain, insomnia, inflammation, and depression. In this episode of Bucket List Careers, we dive into Lauren’s transformative journey, the power of CBD products and network marketing, and the exhilaration of pursuing a passion-fueled career shift that gives her more time flexibility! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andrea Moore Beaulieu’s exciting color palate, unique fabrications, and gender-neutral designs are the signature aesthetic for her fashion brand MOORE, which was launched in 2013. Andrea has been sewing her entire life, went to school for Fashion Design, and honed her skillset while working for other brands nationwide. But it was a dream that prompted Andrea to open her storefront in Larchmont, NY in 2024! She was fully occupied as a stay-at-home mom to twins when she awoke one night with a vision of a store called The Makers NY that would serve as a hub for creativity in the community. Although she had owned a shop on the West Coast in the past and been featured in publications like Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue, at the time of her dream, she had no plans to pursue entrepreneurship again.  Listen in to hear all about Andrea’s journey to opening The Makers New York, which spotlights handcrafted fashion pieces with an emphasis on sustainability! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heather Redisch is an adulting expert who spent most of her career in talent management until she saw a blank space. Now, she coaches thousands of rising and recent college grads on job searching, interviewing, and negotiating. After years in executive recruiting, Heather recognized that there is a massive discrepancy between the expectations of recent grads and their employer.  So she created her business to help bridge the gap! Heather’s Adulting 101 Masterclass is a valuable resource for any recent college grad. Learn more about her program at the link below and use the code A101 for a 20% discount! Listen to her Bucket List Careers episode now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Claudia Kandel’s professional experience spans various industries and sectors, from small start-ups to established corporate giants. She began her career at the National Endowment for the Arts before moving on to brand management and new product development at General Mills and Kraft Foods. However, her true passion project emerged recently when she teamed up with like-minded former colleagues seeking professional change in a personally meaningful field—navigating care for their aging parents. Claudia co-founded Sidekick Concierge to provide an ideal solution for busy professionals with active but aging loved ones who occasionally need support. Sidekicks are not medical aides; they are highly vetted personal assistants who can step in on-demand to help seniors tackle to-do lists, run personal errands, troubleshoot technology and organize paperwork, engage in social and cultural events, and, most importantly, provide cheerful companionship. In this episode, Claudia shares how her personal experiences inspired the creation of her new business, how to transfer valuable skills from previous industries, and what it takes to overcome the fear of failure when starting your own venture in a completely new landscape! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.