Working Your Way

Consistency doesn’t have to be so rigid.In this solo episode, I share what I’ve learned about reimagining consistency in a way that actually works for creatives, entrepreneurs, and leaders. For years, I believed the traditional advice: stick to the same schedule, follow the proven and popular formula, just keep going no matter what. But what I found was that kind of rigidity often leads to burnout, shame, and misalignment.Instead, I’ve discovered a more authentic approach. I walk you through the four principles that have helped me build momentum without losing energy: focusing on what lights you up, considering the impact you want to have, finding your own rhythm, and setting process goals instead of chasing outcomes.Along the way, I reflect on the early days of launching Working Your Way, what I’ve learned from outsourcing vs. DIY, and how showing up with intention has created opportunities I never could have planned for.If you’ve ever struggled to “stay consistent” or felt guilty for not doing enough, this episode will give you permission to let go of perfection—and design a version of consistency that feels aligned, sustainable, and uniquely yours.Resources:Episode 27. Creating Harmony in Work and Life with Sam ParvinEpisode 50. Behind the Scenes of Working Your Way | Celebrating One YearEpisode 55. Beyond Resolutions: How to Set Meaningful Goals for 2025Episode 74. Working For Yourself: What You Need To KnowProduced by NOVAConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

We’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Edina Kalamperovic, SVP at Publicis Group, one of the largest communications and digital transformation companies in the world, and Founder of CareerJig, an online career development and mentorship platform. Edina’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and staying grounded in her values—even in high-pressure environments.As a first-generation American and child of immigrants, Edina shares how her upbringing shaped her perspective on success and character. She opens up about the challenges of working in environments where stagnation and status quo held her back, and how stepping away gave her the clarity to return with renewed focus and impact.In this episode, we dive into Edina’s reflections on burnout, leading with authenticity, and fostering trust on her teams. She talks about bringing a startup mindset into large organizations, the importance of direct yet caring communication, and why “growth moments” matter more than “gotcha moments.”Join us for this inspiring conversation about finding your purpose, building resilience, and leading with integrity in today’s workplace.Resources:Download the Energy Inventory WorksheetRead Edina’s work on Substack: edinakalamperovic.substack.comConnect with Edina on LinkedInSign up for CareerJig How to Restore Yourself from Burnout with Dr. Christina Maslach - How to be Awesome at Your JobConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

We’re excited to revisit one of our earlier episodes featuring the inspiring Jill Lyons. As the SVP of Creative Operations at Maximum Effort, Jill has built a remarkable career by following her curiosity and embracing new possibilities. From her beginnings in journalism and traditional TV production to leading creative operations at an innovative media firm, Jill’s story is a testament to the power of exploration and adaptability.In this conversation, Jill shares how her diverse experiences created a strong foundation for her career—what she describes as building a wide pyramid base before narrowing in on the work she loves most. She also opens up about her challenges with perfectionism and predictability, and how learning to surrender to possibility has shaped her growth as a leader.Join us as we learn from Jill’s journey and gather practical advice for embracing creativity, curiosity, and self-trust in your own career path.Resources:Learn more about Jill at jilllyons.comConnect with Jill on LinkedInRead Find Your Zone of Genius by Laura GarnettRead Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave EvansReflected Best Self Exercise™Listen to 24. How do I define my personal brand? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Discomfort isn’t always a bad thing—in fact, it’s often where the most meaningful growth happens. In this solo episode, I’m sharing why getting uncomfortable is essential for building confidence, deepening relationships, and becoming the person you want to be.I’ll walk you through the “learning zone” model to help you identify whether you’re in your comfort zone, stretching in a healthy way, or pushing yourself into the panic zone. We’ll talk about how to discern between discomfort that helps you grow and the kind that harms, why avoiding difficult conversations keeps us from developing critical skills, and how my own core values of growth and connection guide me in these moments.Along the way, I’ll share stories from my own life—from stepping onto a stage at The Moth to tackling emotionally vulnerable conversations—that show how discomfort, paired with self-compassion and support, can transform your capacity and your connections.If you’ve been avoiding a challenge because it feels uncomfortable, this episode will help you decide whether it’s a moment to lean in, step back, or find a healthier way forward.Resources:Listen to Episode 35. Are You a People Pleaser? | Let’s Talk About LabelsListen to Episode 08. Being Bold & Creating Belonging with Eduardo PlacerLearn more about Fearless CommunicatorsWatch my talk: My Story: The Pursuit Of BelongingLearn more about The MothConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Somewhere along the way, many of us realized that chasing every goal, promotion, or dollar didn’t actually make us happier or healthier. My friend Arden Evenson, founder of Firefly Advising (and a regular here on Working Your Way), and I regularly discuss how we can reject the “rise and grind” mentality, and we wanted to bring that conversation to you. As we get honest with ourselves and each other, Arden and I compare notes on ambition, letting go of hustle culture, and what it takes to design a career around joy, flexibility, and enoughness.We get into how becoming a parent (or simply changing priorities) can challenge your definition of success, why “good enough” can be the most sustainable business strategy, and how neither of us wants to sacrifice well-being for the next rung on the ladder. We talk about giving up perfectionism, resisting comparison, and setting boundaries that actually stick—even when the old pressures flare up.If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you worked less but cared even more, this episode is for you.Resources:Connect with Arden on LinkedInConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

How well do we actually know what we’re great at—and how much does it shape the way we work? In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our own strengths journeys as we revisit the CliftonStrengths assessment after 15 years and compare what’s changed (and what hasn’t) along the way.Together with design and innovation consultant (and my good friend) Sandeep Pahuja, we dig into why leaning into your strengths can lead to more authentic success, and how easy it is to miss the value in what comes naturally. We share stories from our corporate and entrepreneurial experiences, explore what it looks like to build teams and careers around our unique strengths, and reflect on why “fixing” our weaknesses is rarely the answer.If you’re curious how to make your work feel more aligned—or want practical ideas for maximizing your talents—this episode will help you see your strengths with fresh eyes, and encourage you to work your way.Resources:Connect with Sandeep on LinkedInGallup CliftonStrengths: gallup.com/cliftonstrengthsConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

When we talk about the Enneagram, so many misunderstandings seem to circulate—whether it’s calling it just another personality test or believing our type changes depending on the day. In this solo episode, we’ll break down the most common misconceptions and explore why the Enneagram can be a much deeper tool for self-reflection and real growth.We’ll dig into what personality really means, why no two people with the same type look exactly alike, and why our type isn’t something we get from an online quiz or a book. The real work begins after we identify our type—when we start to notice our patterns, get honest with ourselves, and build the range and compassion to show up differently. If you’re curious about using the Enneagram as more than just a label, this conversation is for you.Resources:Listen to the Tools to Work Your Way playlist for deep dives into other frameworks and assessmentsListen to the Let’s Talk About Labels playlist for discussions around the labels that we use to define ourselves and our behaviorsListen to Episode 42. How does my past affect my work habits? | Career Questions to learn about our three main driving instinctsListen to Episode 68. Tools to Work Your Way: Enneagram to learn about what’s next, once you find your Enneagram typeConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Human Design isn’t just another personality tool—it’s a way to understand your unique energy type and how you’re meant to use it to impact the world. In this episode, I sit down with holistic business coach and Human Design expert Jess Parvin to explore how this system blends ancient wisdom and modern insight to help us work (and live) in greater alignment.We share how discovering our own Human Design types gave us both a new sense of permission, whether that’s embracing a multi-passionate approach to business or finally trusting our natural instincts, even when they go against the grain. We break down the five energy types, talk about what it really means to work “in alignment,” and offer practical ways to use your chart to avoid burnout and find more flow.Whether you’re new to Human Design or looking to go deeper, this episode will help you see your quirks and career choices in a new light. Learn how to read your own chart, why it’s a lifelong tool, and practical ways to use it to spark growth in your work and life.Resources:Learn more at jessparvin.comPull your chart (free), schedule a reading, learn more: jessparvin.com/human-design-readings/Follow Jess on Instagram: @holisticbizgrowthListen: Human Design as a Tool for Business Strategy & Personal DevelopmentListen: Using Your Human Design Undefined Energy Centers to Clarify Your Niche + MessagingConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Style is a language. It speaks volumes about the identity and values of the wearer. In this solo episode, I share the journey I’ve been on to redefine my personal style in a way that feels more authentic, aligned, and—honestly—simpler. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by trends or tired of staring at your closet each morning, you’re not alone.After leaving corporate life and shifting into entrepreneurship, my lifestyle changed dramatically—and so did what I needed from my wardrobe. I started asking new questions: What does ease look like when getting dressed? How do I want to feel in my clothes? And how can I make this process reflect who I am now, not who I used to be?In this episode, I offer the tools and mindset shifts that helped me reconnect with my style on my own terms—from following Allison Bornstein’s Three-Word Method to cataloging my closet in the Indyx app–to reimagine and organize my closet. Whether you’re navigating a career change, reevaluating your relationship with consumerism, exploring a simpler lifestyle, or just looking for more clarity in how you get dressed each day, this episode is an invitation to bring more intention—and less noise—into your style.Resources:Wear It Well by Alison BornsteinAlison Bornstein on YouTube or TikTokThe Indyx AppDevon Rule on TikTok (co-founder of Indyx)Interrupting Everything Podcast: Interrupting Consumerism with Aja BarberConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

What if your biggest leadership blind spot isn’t what you’re doing—but how you’re being?In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and fellow coach Seth Yelorda for a conversation about a tool that’s changed the way we both lead and support others: the Leadership Circle Profile (LCP). Seth and I met while training in this framework, and it’s become a cornerstone in how we help leaders grow, starting with self-awareness.We unpack how the LCP goes beyond personality or strengths assessments to reveal the inner stories and patterns that drive our leadership. It shines a light on the reactive strategies many of us default to—like micromanaging, people-pleasing, or becoming defensive—and helps us move toward creative leadership grounded in integrity, purpose, and connection.We also share how it’s impacted our own journeys, how we started noticing behaviors we thought were helpful to our impact and success, and realized they were actually becoming protection strategies. This isn’t about fixing people. It’s about understanding ourselves deeply enough to choose how we want to lead.If you’re a leader, coach, or someone who wants to grow with more intention, this episode is for you.Resources:Learn more about the Leadership Circle ProfileFollow Seth’s work at visionclarityconsulting.comConnect with Seth on LinkedInConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

What if the greatest gift you could offer others wasn’t advice—but presence?In this episode of Working Your Way, we sit down with Dr. Kristin Long, DPsa, LP, LCAT, a depth-oriented psychotherapist, drama therapist, and educator whose work centers on trauma, embodiment, and creative healing. Kristin brings a rich background in performance, psychology, and internal inquiry to explore what it means to truly be with ourselves and one another and to build her own diverse and fulfilling career.We talk about the projections and expectations we internalize from childhood, the lifelong process of unlearning them, and the difference between fixing and witnessing. Kristin shares how her own journey has shaped her ability to hold space with compassion and clarity. Whether you’re a leader, a healer, or simply someone craving more connection, Kristin’s grounded wisdom offers a reminder that healing doesn’t come from knowing all the answers—it comes from learning how to stay.Resources:Learn more at https://www.kristinlongnyc.com/Connect with Kristin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klongnycListen - Episode 60. Building a Business on Belonging with Paul Tadalan: https://www.selfatwork.com/podcast/episode/53a35a53/60-building-a-business-on-belonging-with-paul-tadalanListen - Episode 71. A Guide For Leaders: Building the Foundation for Team Effectiveness: https://www.selfatwork.com/podcast/episode/57ac0ae3/71-a-guide-for-leaders-building-the-foundation-for-team-effectivenessConnect with me:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selfatworksandhya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandhya-sudhakar/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@workingyourwaypodcastWebsite: https://www.selfatwork.com/Produced by NOVA: https://novapodcasting.com/

What if your career path was written in the stars?In this episode of Working Your Way, part of our Tools to Work Your Way series, Sandhya is joined by professional astrologer and attorney Jules McGill to explore how astrology can be used as a lens for career insight and self-discovery. Jules shows how your natal chart can reveal deep patterns, preferences, and possibilities for how you want to work and lead–demonstrating how astrology is far from being a static personality label.Together, they break down how to look at your chart through the lens of career—focusing on your Midheaven (MC), sixth and tenth houses, rising sign, and the planetary placements that shape your work instincts and style. Jules also shares how her own chart helped her make peace with having two seemingly unrelated careers—and why that duality is actually a perfect reflection of her Gemini identity.Whether you’re astrology-curious or just looking for new ways to think about your professional path, this episode offers an accessible introduction to astrology as a tool for career alignment.Resources:Pull your chart at astro-seek.comLearn more at thecosmicgem.comFollow Jules on Instagram: @julesthecosmicgem Connect with Jules on LinkedInConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

ADHD in the workplace is often misunderstood—especially when it shows up in women. In this Career Questions episode, I’m joined by Katarina Stiles to explore how ADHD impacts work performance, communication, and career fulfillment in ways that are often missed or misdiagnosed.Together, we unpack the unique challenges women face—from masking and perfectionism to burnout and time blindness—and how many traditional work systems unintentionally create friction for neurodivergent minds. We’ll share our personal experiences and insights and discuss professional strategies for creating more sustainable ways of working that honor the way your brain actually functions.This conversation is for anyone who has ADHD, suspects they might, or supports someone who does. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of executive function, the real cost of internalized ableism, and tools to work with—not against—your brain.Disclaimer:  We are not medical or mental health professionals. This podcast shares our personal experiences and learning, but is not meant to serve as a substitute for therapy or medical advice. Please reach out to a qualified professional if you have questions or concerns.Resources:Learn more about Her Clarity: herclarity.comFollow Her Clarity on Instagram: @helloherclarityRead: How to Keep House While DrowningListen: HBR Women at Work: ADHD Is Different for WomenConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Three years into running my own business, I’ve had countless conversations with friends, former colleagues, and curious onlookers asking what it’s really like to leave corporate and go solo. In this episode, I’m sharing the most important lessons I’ve learned during my transition from corporate leader to self-employed entrepreneur.This isn’t a step-by-step guide or advice disguised as expertise. It’s simply my lived experience—what I’ve had to unlearn, the surprising truths about building a solo business, and what I wish more people understood before taking the leap.We talk about why the 40-hour workweek doesn’t translate, how managing your energy is more important than managing your time, and why the concepts of “success” and “failure” just don’t apply the same way when you work for yourself. I share what it means to build a business that fits your brain, why community matters more than ever, and how perfectionism can stall your progress.Whether you’re dreaming of leaving your job, already testing the waters, or building something of your own, I hope this episode offers support, clarity, and some much-needed honesty about what it takes to work your way.Resources:Episode 11. Should I quit my job? | Career QuestionsEpisode 16. Independent work or self-employment: Is it right for me? | Career QuestionsEpisode 50. Behind the Scenes of Working Your Way | Celebrating One YearConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

What does it actually look like to thrive at work—and how do you know when you're doing it?In this episode, Sandhya welcomes Shannon O’Shields, VP of Marketing at Rubix Foods, for a real and reflective conversation about authenticity, growth, and the spark that drives great work. Shannon walks us through her path from an uncertain start in the workforce—feeling behind her peers and unsure of her direction—to finding her voice as a creative and confident leader in marketing. Along the way, she was handed the reins to social media before it was even a thing, found mentors who championed her growth, and learned to quit roles that didn't serve her.We talk about how to build safe spaces for creativity, how personality shows up in the workplace, and why being transparent with your team can change everything. Shannon shares how she knows she’s thriving and what she does when that creative spark starts to fade. This episode is for anyone navigating their career with curiosity, courage, and a refusal to settle for anything less than joy at work.Resources:Follow Shannon on Instagram: @shannonoshieldsConnect with Shannon on LinkedInHBR: Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter SyndromeEpisode 61. How do I define my personal brand? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

How often do you take time to reflect on what you naturally do best?In this episode, I'm joined by Shereen Sater, an organizational change consultant and leadership coach, to dive into the Reflected Best Self Exercise (RBSE)—a powerful tool designed to help you uncover the strengths that others see in you but that you may overlook.Shereen and I share our own experiences with the RBSE, from the unexpected emotional impact of receiving positive feedback to how these insights have shaped the way we navigate our careers. We also talk about why recognizing and leaning into our natural strengths can transform confidence, work, and leadership.If you've ever wondered how others perceive your unique impact or the traits you embody—or maybe you struggled to see your own strengths—this episode is a must-listen.Resources:Learn more about the Reflected Best Self ExerciseBring RBSE to your group or team: Self At Work Workshops Check out Shereen’s work at the-curve.coConnect with Shereen on LinkedInConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Psychological safety isn’t just a leadership buzzword—it’s the foundation of strong, high-performing teams. When people feel safe to speak up, challenge ideas, admit mistakes, and contribute freely, they do better work. But too often, fear of judgment, rejection, or failure holds people back.In this episode, I break down:What psychological safety really is (and what it isn’t)How to create the conditions for it to thrive on your teamWhat gets in the way of psychological safety—and how to fix itAs we dive into the barriers leaders face, we explore the four stages of psychological safety, share about why different people experience it in different ways, and highlight how personality differences can impact how we show up at work.When leaders build an environment where people feel safe to take risks and be themselves, teams become more creative, engaged, and effective. Listen in to learn how to create a culture that supports authenticity, inclusion, and great results—without burnout. If you missed Part One, go back to Episode 70 to hear how to build an inclusive culture that supports authenticity, innovation, and high performance.Resources:Read: Psychological Safety in Cannabis: The Foundation for a Successful Workplace Culture & Talent StrategyListen: Restoring Psychological Safety LIVE Panel featuring Sandhya Sudhakar, Dr. Jeb Hurley, and Earl Foote - Capital P in People WorkListen to Episode 20: How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career QuestionsListen to Episode 21: How can I develop my emotional intelligence using the Enneagram? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Creating an environment where people can show up authentically at work isn’t just about good intentions—it’s about building an inclusive culture that welcomes their uniqueness. If we want our teams to thrive, we need to design workplaces that support them, not force them into a one-size-fits-all mold.In this episode, I explore how to build an inclusive culture by:Recognizing and leveraging peoples’ individual strengths so they can maximize the impact of their effortDesigning for diverse thinking and working styles instead of defaulting to just one way of workingUnderstanding what makes your people tick and managing based on what actually motivates each personThis is part one of a two-part conversation. In part two, I’ll dive into psychological safety and how we can create the kind of trust that allows our teams to take risks, innovate, and grow.Resources:Listen to Episode 20: How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career QuestionsListen to Episode 21: How can I develop my emotional intelligence using the Enneagram? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

Tiffany Welton knows what it's like to lose her voice in a toxic work environment—and she also knows the power of getting it back. We’re revisiting this empowering conversation with Tiffany, a former executive turned entrepreneur, as she shares her journey from navigating a fear-driven corporate culture to creating a people-first business in the hospitality industry.After years of working in environments where her ideas were dismissed and her leadership was undermined, Tiffany left it all behind to open RBF, a wine bar in North Carolina with a mission: to create a space where women feel seen, safe, and heard—both as employees and as customers.We dive into how childhood experiences shape workplace dynamics, how Tiffany broke the cycle of toxic leadership, and why giving employees agency is the key to building a thriving business. Plus, she shares what it really took to challenge industry norms and build a successful, profitable company that refuses to compromise on culture.Resources:Learn more at rbf.wineFollow RBF on Instagram: @showmeyourrbfConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA

The Enneagram is one of the most powerful tools for self-discovery we’ve come across, and that’s why we’re kicking off the Tools to Work Your Way series with it. In this episode, we’re diving into how the Enneagram can help you navigate your career, relationships, and personal growth with more awareness and intention.Erin Baute and I have both used this framework extensively in our work, and we’re unpacking what makes this tool so unique. We’re breaking down why it’s not just another personality test, why typing yourself is more of a discovery process than a test result, and how understanding your Enneagram type can shift the way you show up at work and in life.This episode is for anyone looking to deepen their self-awareness, move beyond old patterns that no longer serve them, and embrace their full potential. Let’s dig in!Resources:Learn more at livingtheenneagram.comFollow Erin on Instagram: @livingtheenneagramListen to Episode 20. How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career QuestionsEpisode 21. How can I develop my emotional intelligence with the Enneagram? | Career QuestionsListen to Episode 42. How does my past affect my work habits? | Career QuestionsListen to Erin on Pantsuit Politics: Your Personality Shapes Your Politics: The Enneagram and the 2024 ElectionConnect with me:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA