Bill & Jerry's Excellent Podcast: Spilling The Career Tea

Personal stories, reflections, call-to-action messages to inspire others.

In this special episode of Bill & Jerry’s Excellent Podcast – Spilling The Career Tea, we sit down with Vanessa, a graduating senior preparing to step into the professional world. As she searches for her first job, Vanessa opens up about the excitement, challenges, and uncertainties of entering the workforce. With Bill and Jerry’s expertise, this conversation goes beyond standard career advice—it's about building confidence, developing resilience, and embracing the job hunt with a strategic mindset. The duo shares insider tips, untold secrets, and practical strategies to help graduates navigate interviews, networking, and workplace dynamics.

In this episode of Bill & Jerry’s Excellent Podcast: Spilling the Career Tea, Nicole DuBois, Chief Human Resources Officer at Graham-Windham, shares her inspiring journey from Fordham University graduate to HR leadership.Nicole takes listeners through her path-starting with her double major in psychology and urban studies, and how her academic experiences shaped her understanding of human behavior, community impact, and leadership. She dives into the pivotal moments, challenges, and discoveries that guided her toward a career in human resources, offering invaluable insights for anyone navigating their own professional journey.From finding purpose in career exploration to embracing growth opportunities, Nicole spills the tea on strategic career moves, resilience, and the unexpected turns that led her to success. Whether you’re a student, a job seeker, or someone looking to pivot, this episode delivers real-world wisdom on building a fulfilling career.Tune in and get ready for some career-changing insights! ☕🔥

In this episode of Bill & Jerry’s Excellent Podcast: Spilling the Career Tea, we sit down with Eleana, whose dream internship at NBC didn’t just happen—it was the result of mentorship, strategic networking, and a little behind-the-scenes magic from Jerry.Eleana shares how she put herself “out there” in a way that was bold yet respectful, proving that confidence and professionalism go hand in hand. She opens up about the challenges of reaching out for help, stepping outside her comfort zone, and embracing the art of networking—even when it feels intimidating.If you’ve ever wondered how to turn connections into career breakthroughs, this is the episode for you. Grab your tea, settle in, and let Eleana spill her secrets to success! 🍵✨

In this insightful episode, Bill and Jerry sit down with Mike Summers, Associate Vice President of Lafayette College’s Gateway Career Center and incoming Chief Career Officer at Davidson College. Known affectionately as “The Iron Man” for his endurance and dedication, Mike shares his wisdom on navigating the unpredictable world of careers.Mike emphasizes that career paths are rarely linear—a message especially relevant for recent graduates feeling pressure to have everything figured out. He encourages students and young professionals to embrace exploration, remain adaptable, and view each experience as a stepping stone rather than a final destination.For international students, Mike offers practical advice on job searching in a new country, including building a strong network, understanding visa requirements, and leveraging campus resources early.He also addresses a common concern: how to stand out when you don’t have much experience. His tips include:Highlighting transferable skills from volunteer work, internships, or class projects.Demonstrating curiosity and a willingness to learn.Showing initiative through personal projects or leadership in student organizations.

In this episode of Bill & Jerry's Excellent Podcast: Spilling The Career Tea, we sit down with Lea, an international student from Vietnam who recently graduated from Fordham University. Lea shares her inspiring story of choosing New York City during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking a place full of diversity and opportunity.Now on the hunt for a job that will allow her to stay in the U.S., Lea opens up about the challenges and hopes of navigating the post-grad job market as an international student. Special guest Mike Summers joins the round table to offer practical advice and encouragement for job seekers like Lea.

In this inspiring episode, Toni Forte shares her dynamic career journey, beginning at the University of Miami, moving through AutoNation, Vanderbilt University, and ultimately landing at Citibank. With a background in marketing, and minors in international business and creative advertising, Toni carved a path that blends creativity with analytical thinking.Toni opens up about stumbling into her first job, and how that experience helped her clarify what she didn’twant—leading her to make the bold decision to leave a stable position and pursue an MBA. Her story highlights the importance of having a vision for the kind of work and industries you want to be part of, while also staying open to new ideas and opportunities.She emphasizes her love for partner collaboration and analytical problem-solving, and encourages young professionals to be intentional but flexible in their career planning. Toni’s journey is a testament to the power of self-reflection, courage, and continuous learning.

In this episode of Bill & Jerry’s Excellent Podcast, a/k/a Spilling the Career Tea, we continue our insightful conversation with Toni and welcome another inspiring guest, Leah, a recent graduate from the University of Miami.Leah shares her unique experience of graduating during the COVID-19 lockdown and the challenges she faced in her job search and internships. As the former captain of the University of Miami co-ed cheer team, Leah discusses how networking and mentoring played crucial roles in helping her navigate the uncertainties of the job market. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, both as a mentee and a mentor, and how these relationships have shaped her career journey.Currently working as a senior associate in assurance at Price Waterhouse, Leah also talks about her passion for giving back. She actively mentors students who aspire to work in her field or are considering a move to New York City, offering valuable advice and support.Tune in to hear Leah's inspiring story and gain insights on:The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on recent graduatesThe power of networking and mentorship in career developmentBalancing professional growth with giving back to the communityDon't miss this episode filled with practical tips and heartfelt stories!

In this motivating episode, Bill & Jerry welcome Stephen Blum, a seasoned strategic initiative leader and resident fellow at Yale University, for a deep dive into the art of career pivots, purposeful living, and building meaningful connections.Steve shares his journey through two major career transitions, offering insights into how being intentional and open to what comes next can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. The conversation explores the Japanese concept of IKIGAI—a framework for finding purpose—and how it can guide personal and professional decisions.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sophia, a senior at the University of Miami, who shares how she built a powerful network and used internships to explore and clarify her career path. Sophia reflects on how her background in competitive dance shaped her work ethic, discipline, and drive; qualities that translated seamlessly into her professional journey.We explore how intentionality played a key role in her college choice and career development. Was it luck, or was she simply prepared and proactive? Sophia credits her success to preparation, guidance, and leveraging her network, not chance.Strategist, Stephen Blum joins the conversation to connect Sophia’s journey to the Japanese concept of IKIGAI - the intersection of what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Sophia’s story is a living example of this framework in action.We also dive into:How a required sophomore - year career readiness course helped her gain clarity and confidence.The role of mentors and belief from others when she doubted herself.How she cultivated confidence through action, reflection, and support.This episode is a must-listen for students navigating uncertainty, and for anyone who wonders whether confidence is something you’re born with or something you build.

Dr. Allison McWilliams, Assistant VP of Mentoring and Alumni Personal & Career Development at Wake Forest University, shares her journey and the evolution of Wake Forest’s innovative approach to career services. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, intentional career planning, and holistic development for students and alumni.This episode includes:Thoughts from her book Five For Your First Five, Allison outlines five essential areas for early career success:Doing Work Well: Show up, be reliable, and learn how to succeed in a professional setting.Building a Life: Manage time, finances, health, and hobbies—especially important for graduates used to structured schedules.Creating Community: Find mentors, sponsors, and peers who align with your values.Practicing Reflection: Seek and respond to feedback; treat every experience as data for growth.Planning What’s Next: Use what you’ve learned to make informed career moves—not perfect ones, but intentional ones.Allison talks about Values-Driven Decision MakingGraduates are encouraged to reflect on what matters most to them and align their work and life accordingly.Allison cautions against pressure to “find your passion” immediately, noting the privilege and complexity behind that narrative.Permission to Be HappyIt’s okay to stay in a job you love, even if it’s been years.Career paths are individual, and success should be defined by personal fulfillment, not external timelines.Allison’s advice helps graduates navigate uncertainty, build confidence, and make intentional choices.Her framework offers a practical roadmap for the first five years after college, blending career strategy with emotional intelligence.

In this episode of Bill & Jerry’s Excellent Podcast: Spilling the Career Tea, we sit down with Lindsay Sosnik, an early career professional who shares her bold journey from finance student to relationship associate at Citibank. Lindsay talks about:Turning down a return offer from Bank of America to pursue her true passion.Navigating a two year rotational risk management program at Citi and pivoting into a client facing role.How she leveraged networking, preparation, and creativity, including building a personal portfolio, to stand out in a competitive market.The importance of confidence, initiative, and self marketing when breaking into new roles.Insights from Dr. Allison McWilliams on courage, differentiation, and why networking matters more than ever.This episode is packed with practical advice for students and early-career professionals on taking calculated risks, creating a unique value proposition, and owning your career path.🎧 Listen now to learn how Lindsay’s story can inspire your next big move!

In this first half of our two-part conversation with Richard Magid, founder of Soundboard Consulting and the Soundboard Angel Fund, we dive into his incredible journey from international finance and commodities trading to becoming a sought after executive coach and mentor. Richard shares candid insights on discovering core values, why alignment matters for career satisfaction, and how "small shifts" can lead to big results.We explore practical strategies for young professionals to build self awareness early, develop empathy through curiosity, and ask the right questions during interviews to uncover company culture and values. Plus, hear the story of how Richard and Jerry first connected; proof that taking risks and putting yourself out there can change your life.If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate career pivots or create a values driven path, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Bill and Jerry welcome Richard Magid, a seasoned entrepreneur, and Jarrett Birnbaum, a University of Maryland graduate who transitioned from corporate roles to full-time freelance photography. Jarrett shares his journey from studying public relations and working in software sales to discovering his passion for creative work. After being laid off during COVID, he explored real estate before fully committing to photography, eventually celebrating his first anniversary as a full-time entrepreneur.The conversation dives into:Career pivots and entrepreneurial mindset: Jarrett’s decision to leave stable corporate jobs for creative freedom, and Richard’s reflections on his own leap from banking to entrepreneurship.Networking as a growth engine: Jarrett attributes nearly all his business to referrals and relationships, emphasizing authenticity over transactional networking.Core values and fulfillment: Both guests discuss how aligning work with personal values drives success and satisfaction.Luck vs. preparation: Jarrett and Richard agree that luck often comes from creating opportunities through effort and openness.The episode offers practical insights on building a career in creative industries, leveraging networks, and embracing risk to pursue passion driven work.