Asking Career Questions

In this episode of Asking Career Questions, I sit down with Carly Henkel, a PhD researcher at the Cyprus Institute’s Science and Technology in Archaeology and Culture Research Center (STARC). Carly’s work delves deeply into the ancient world, examining how plants influenced Bronze Age ritual landscapes in Crete.We discuss Carly’s academic journey from Wilfrid Laurier University to Leiden University, and how she found her calling in archaeobotany. She shares insights from her fieldwork at sites like Karphi, Kophinas, and Petras, and explains how analyzing ancient plant remains can reveal rich stories about human history.We also talk about the future of archaeobotany, her best and worst career advice, and what she wishes she’d known starting out. If you’re curious about the intersection of plants, history, and archaeology—or just want to hear from someone who’s passionate about asking questions and finding meaning in the past—this conversation is for you.

In this powerful episode of Asking Career Questions, we speak with Sanah Jivani, Project and Communications Coordinator at the Center for Survivor Agency and Justice and founder of the Love Your Natural Self Foundation. Sanah opens up about her journey from navigating personal challenges—like growing up amid domestic violence and mental health struggles—to becoming a nationally recognized advocate for youth empowerment, career equity, and healing-centered work.We explore:How Sanah found purpose in her career through storytelling, advocacy, and resilienceThe most common challenges young people face in building confidence and career directionEncouragement and strategies for those feeling lost or uncertain about their pathHow her personal story fuels her professional missionThe best and worst career advice she’s received—and what she wishes someone had told her soonerExciting projects and dreams she's working towardHow listeners can support her mission and get involvedWhether you’re navigating a career pivot, recovering from adversity, or searching for meaning in your work, this conversation will inspire and guide you.🎧 Tune in and share with someone who’s figuring out their next step.Links:⁠Sanah’s Website⁠⁠Center for Survivor Agency & Justice Website⁠Asking Career Questions Instagram

Feeling stuck in your career? Unsure how to turn your passions into a sustainable living? In this episode of Asking Career Questions, I talk with Beth Raps, founder of RAISING CLARITY, about career clarity, making money doing what you love, and navigating career transitions at any stage of life.Beth has built a unique career as a translator, editor, book coach, philosopher, and fundraising consultant. She shares insights on:✅ How to choose a career when you have multiple interests✅ Breaking into the translation and editing industry (for students and aspiring professionals)✅ Strategic ways to align passion with financial stability✅ How to follow your calling—even if you’re unsure where to start✅ Lessons from working with writers, rappers, and artists in French and EnglishThis episode is perfect for college students exploring career options, professionals considering a career change, and creatives looking to build a meaningful career.📌 Explore Beth’s Work & Resources:🔗 Consulting & Fundraising Guidance📩 Career & Clarity Newsletter (Free Resources)🎥 Video Courses & Interviews📺 YouTube: Mindset, Money, Time & Calling📝 Blog: Career & Financial Clarity🌟 Find Your Calling & Career Path📖 Learn More About Beth’s Work💼 Connect on LinkedIn

How do you build a career that truly works for you? In this episode of Asking Career Questions, I sit down with Jeffrey White, Director of Career and Life Design at Hollins University, to explore how students and professionals can take charge of their career paths with confidence.We discuss:🎯 His role at Hollins and how he helps students design fulfilling careers📄 How to tailor your resume for success🤝 The best ways to build a professional network—especially if you're introverted🎤 Interview prep strategies that help you stand out🚀 The most valuable career lessons he’s learned along the wayPlus, Jeffrey shares the best and worst career advice he’s ever received (and what he wishes he was told instead).If you're looking for actionable career insights from someone who has guided countless students to success, this episode is for you! 🎧#CareerGrowth #NetworkingTips #JobSearch #ProfessionalDevelopment #Podcast

 What’s it really like to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing? In this episode of Asking Career Questions, I chat with Gillian, a Creative Writing MFA student, about the ins and outs of her journey. Gillian opens up about her day-to-day life in the program, what inspired her to pursue this path, and how she navigated the application process—from selecting her writing sample to crafting a compelling statement of purpose. She also shares valuable insights into the workshop process, the role of mentorship, and how the program has influenced her writing style and creative process. Whether you’re curious about applying to an MFA program, exploring your own writing journey, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with advice, reflections, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to dedicate yourself to the craft of writing. Tune in to hear Gillian’s experiences, lessons, and the career advice that’s shaping her future as a writer! Did you like this episode? Follow for more information! Gillian’s Instagram: @gillian_writes Asking Career Questions Instagram: @asking_career_questions

In this inspiring episode, Chlo’e Edwards dives deep into her journey as an advocate for people of color, her transformative life experiences, and the wisdom she’s gained along the way. A passionate activist and mentor, Chlo’e shares how she approaches her multifaceted work as an activist, poet, and mentor with a focus on balance and authenticity. Chlo’e offers practical advice for activists and poets alike, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, managing tasks effectively, and aligning with your purpose. We discuss the balance between work and personal life, the necessity of rest, and the power of connecting with your gifts. Whether you’re an activist, creative, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt wisdom. Tune in to learn how to make a meaningful impact while staying true to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love to hear from you! 🌟 Don’t forget to leave a rating or comment—it helps us reach more curious minds like yours. Want to stay in the loop for future episodes? Follow us on Spotify or Instagram at @asking_career_questions. Have a career or major you’re curious about? Drop a comment or send us a DM on Instagram—we’d love to explore it with you! Want to connect with Chlo’e? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloeiedwards/  Email: ceo@transformativechanges.org  Website: https://chloeiedwards.com/home

Welcome to Episode 4 of Asking Career Questions! Ever wondered if psychology is the right major for you? Or thought about what it’s like to run your own practice? This episode has the answers you’re looking for! I’m chatting with Danielle Branche-Brown, a therapeutic coach and founder of the Self Care Academy. Danielle’s career journey is full of twists, lessons, and inspiration. We explore how she transitioned from being a therapist to launching her own coaching practice, what her day-to-day looks like, and how she uses change as a tool for growth. Here’s what you’ll learn: -0:00 Who Danielle is and what this episode’s about -1:11 A behind-the-scenes look at her daily routine -2:52 The mission of the Self Care Academy—and how it helps people -5:08 Danielle’s career path: from therapist to coach -12:49 The best and toughest parts of her job -16:10 Skills and lessons she’s carried into her current role -20:13 The best (and worst!) career advice she’s received—and what she wishes she’d heard instead If you’re a college student feeling lost about your major or career path, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Got questions, feedback, or ideas for future career paths to explore? Drop a comment or DM us on Instagram at @asking_career_questions—and don’t forget to follow for updates! Thanks for listening—see you in the next episode!

Hi everyone! Welcome to the third episode of Asking Career Questions! Have you ever considered majoring in business? Have you ever wondered if you would enjoy running your own company? This episode is for you! In this episode, I’m interviewing Neal Kursban, CEO of Family & Nursing Care, a private duty home care company serving elderly and disabled people in Maryland, Washington DC, and Philadelphia. We talk about everything from the art of managing people to ways to enjoy what you do! What we discuss: -0:00 Introduction -0:30 What does your job as a CEO entail from day-to-day? -2:14 What are some things you enjoy about being the CEO of Family and Nursing Care? -4:05 What skills and knowledge have served you best throughout your career and particularly as a CEO? -5:22 What skills from managing three Taco Bells did you incorporate into working at Family and Nursing Care when you first started? -7:46 Do you feel like you’ve been able to strike a balance between micromanaging and under-managing people? If so, how did you do it? -8:57 When you’re looking back on past choices, how do you protect your mental health while also focusing on how you can do better all the time? -10:22 What’s unique about being a CEO in the health industry in comparison to other industries? -11:58 What was the process of taking on more responsibility like for you and how did it influence how you operate as a CEO today? -14:49 What has been the most valuable professional lesson you’ve learned by going through the journey? -17:33 What is the best piece of career advice someone has given you? WHat was the worst, and what do you think they should’ve said instead? -24:40 Conclusion If you want to say hi or if you have any feedback, questions, or a request for a career path you’d like to hear about, comment below, or DM us on Instagram @asking_career_questions! Don’t forget to give us a follow too! See you in the next episode!

Hi everyone! Welcome to the second episode of Asking Career Questions! Have you ever considered majoring in communications? Have you ever wondered if you would enjoy working for a non-profit organization? This episode is for you!In this episode, I’m interviewing Hollins University alumna Kathryn McDowell, a community outreach director for Preservation Greensboro. We talk about everything from the questions to ask yourself to figure out what you want to do to mental health preservation strategies!What we discuss:-0:00 Introduction-0:40 What does your job as a community outreach director entail on a day-to-day basis?-2:16 What skills do you recommend students develop while they’re in their first few years of college?-4:39 Other than those skills, what are some valuable lessons you’ve learned from your career so far?-6:39 How did you decide what industry you wanted to switch to?-9:55 What were some of the cons of your old job and what do you do differently now?-12:52 What about your job is fulfilling or purposeful for you and why?-16:02 What are some of the reasons houses get brought down?-17:57 How did you learn to balance your mental health with your dedication to your job?If you want to say hi or if you have any feedback, questions, or a request for a career path you’d like to hear about, comment below, or DM us on Instagram @asking_career_questions! Don’t forget to give us a follow too!See you in the next episode!

Hi everyone! Welcome to the first episode of Asking Career Questions! Have you wondered whether finance is the major for you? Have you considered coaching basketball after graduation but don’t know if it would be the right fit? I gotchu!In this episode, I’m interviewing James Wang, a senior financial analyst and basketball coach. We talk about everything from a month in the life of a financial analyst to how to get a well-deserved raise!What we discuss:- 0:00 Introduction- 0:35 What does your job as a financial analyst entail from day to day?- 3:49 What does your job as a basketball coach entail day to day?- 6:45 What is the worst piece of career advice you’ve gotten and what do you wish they had said instead?- 11:54 What is the best piece of career advice someone has given you? - 13:15 What skills and knowledge do you think have served you the best throughout your career?- 21:13 How did you decide to pursue basketball coaching after working in finance for so long?If you want to say hi or if you have any feedback, questions, or a request for a career path you’d like to hear about, comment below, or DM us on Instagram @asking_career_questions! Don’t forget to give us a follow too!See you in the next episode!